As filed with Securities and Exchange Commission on December 8, 2006.
File Nos. 333-29511, 811-08261
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM N-1A
Registration Statement Under the Securities Act of 1933 [ ]
Pre-Effective Amendment No. [ ]
Post-Effective Amendment No. [17]
and/or
Registration Statement Under the Investment Company Act of 1940 [ ]
Amendment No. 19 [X]
MEMBERS Mutual Funds
5910 Mineral Point Road
Madison, WI 53705
(608) 238-5851
(Registrant's Exact Name, Address and Telephone Number)
Steve Suleski
Vice President, Deputy General Counsel
CUNA Mutual Group
5910 Mineral Point Road
Madison, WI 53705
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
Copy to:
Stephen E. Roth, Esq.
Sutherland Asbill & Brennan LLP
1275 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D. C. 20004-2404
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box)
[ ] immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
[ ] on December 27 2006 pursuant to paragraph (a)
[X] 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
[ ] on December 27, 2006 pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
[ ] 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
[ ] on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of rule 485.
If appropriate, check the following box:
[ ] This post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a
previously filed post-effective amendment.
PROSPECTUS December 27, 2006
MEMBERS(R) MUTUAL FUNDS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The fund pages describe the investment objectives, strategies and risks, and fees and expenses of a portfolio (or "fund") of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
This section explains your account options, sales charges and fees, and how to open an account and purchase, exchange and sell shares with MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
These sections give you additional information about the MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
THE FUNDS Small Cap Value Fund...................................................... 1 Small Cap Growth Fund..................................................... 3 Fees and Expenses......................................................... 4 YOUR ACCOUNT Choosing a Share Class.................................................... 6 Purchasing Shares......................................................... 7 Sales Charges and Fees.................................................... 9 Selling Shares............................................................ 13 General Policies.......................................................... 15 Additional Investor Services.............................................. 16 Distributions and Taxes................................................... 17 INVESTMENT ADVISER........................................................ 18 PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT...................................................... 18 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS...................................................... 18 |
Additional information about the funds is available in the Statement of Additional Information (SAI). You may get a copy of any of these reports at no cost by calling 1-800-877-6089 or visiting our website at www.membersfunds.com.
Please note that an investment in any of these funds is not a deposit in a credit union or other financial institution and is neither insured nor endorsed in any way by any credit union, other financial institution, or government agency. Such an investment involves certain risks, including loss of principal, and is not guaranteed to result in positive investment gains. These funds may not achieve their objectives.
As with all mutual funds, the Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved the shares in these funds, nor does the Commission guarantee the accuracy or adequacy of the prospectus. Any statement to the contrary is a criminal offense.
SMALL CAP VALUE FUND
INVESTOR PROFILE
Who should consider investing in this fund?
You may want to invest more of your assets in this fund if you:
- have a longer investment time horizon
- are willing to accept higher ongoing short-term risk for the potential of higher long-term returns
- want to diversify your investments
- are seeking a fund for the value portion of an asset allocation program
- are seeking exposure to small companies as part of an asset allocation program
or
- are investing for retirement or other goals that are many years in the future
You may want to invest fewer of your assets in this fund if you:
- are investing with a shorter investment time horizon in mind
- are seeking income rather than capital gain
or
- are uncomfortable with an investment whose value may vary substantially
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Who makes the investment decisions for this fund?
MEMBERS Capital Advisors as adviser may use one or more subadvisers with any of the MEMBERS Funds under a "manager of managers" approach. Wellington Management Company, LLP ("Wellington Management") is currently the only subadviser for the Small Cap Value Fund. Stephen T. O'Brien, CFA, at Wellington Management is the lead portfolio manager responsible for deciding which securities are purchased or sold in the Small Cap Value Fund. He is assisted by Timothy J. McCormack, CFA, and Shaun F. Pedersen. See page 18 for further information regarding the portfolio managers.
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
What is this fund's goal?
The SMALL CAP VALUE FUND seeks long-term capital appreciation.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
How does this fund pursue its objective?
The fund invests primarily in a diversified mix of common stocks of U.S. small cap companies that are believed to be undervalued by various measures and offer sound prospects for capital appreciation. For purposes of this fund, "small cap companies" are those with market capitalizations that are within the range of capitalizations of companies represented in either the S&P 600 Index ($54 million to $4.2 billion as of December 31, 2005) or the Russell 2000(R) Index ($105 million to $4.4 billion as of December 31, 2005).
The subadviser employs a value-oriented investment approach in selecting stocks, using proprietary fundamental research to identify securities of issuers the subadviser believes have attractive valuations. The subadviser focuses on companies with a record of above average rates of profitability that sell at a discount relative to the overall small cap market.
Through fundamental research the subadviser seeks to identify those companies which possess one or more of the following characteristics:
- sustainable competitive advantages within a market niche;
- strong profitability and free cash flows;
- strong market share positions and trends;
- quality of and share ownership by management;
- financial structures that are more conservative than the relevant industry average.
The fund may invest up to 20% of its assets in foreign securities. The fund may also invest in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) that are registered investment companies.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
What are the main risks of investing in this fund?
As with any fund that invests in equity securities, this fund is subject to MARKET RISK, the risk that the value of an investment will fluctuate in response to stock market movements. Loss of money is a significant risk of investing in this fund.
Due to its focus on small cap companies, this fund may experience significant volatility over time. Small companies tend to have narrower product lines, fewer financial resources and a more limited trading market for their securities, as compared to larger companies. The securities of smaller companies also experience greater price volatility than securities of larger capitalization companies.
During certain periods, the liquidity of the securities of small cap companies may shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse economic or market conditions, or adverse investor perceptions. The fund could lose money if it has to sell illiquid securities at a disadvantageous time. The costs of purchasing or selling securities of small capitalization companies are often greater than those of more widely traded securities. Securities of smaller capitalization companies can be difficult to value. In addition, a "value" approach to investing includes the risks that their perceived intrinsic values may never be realized by the market, and that a stock that is believed to
PRINCIPAL RISKS (CONTINUED)
be undervalued actually is appropriately priced or overpriced due to unanticipated problems associated with the issuer or industry.
To the extent that the fund invests in higher-risk securities and initial public offerings, it takes on additional risks that could adversely affect its performance. For example, to the extent that the fund invests in FOREIGN SECURITIES, it will be subject to the risks related to such securities, including the risks of changes in the rate of currency exchange and unstable political situations. The principal risks of foreign securities are described in the SAI.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION IS NOT AVAILABLE BECAUSE THE FUND IS NEW. PERFORMANCE INFORMATION WILL BE AVAILABLE ONCE THE FUND HAS COMPLETED ONE CALENDAR YEAR.
SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
INVESTOR PROFILE
Who should consider Investing in this fund?
You may want to invest more of your assets in this fund if you:
- have a longer investment time horizon
- are willing to accept higher ongoing short-term risk for the potential of higher long- term returns
- want to diversify your investments
- are seeking a fund for the growth portion of an asset allocation program
- are seeking exposure to small companies as part of an asset allocation program
or
- are investing for retirement or other goals that are many years in the future
You may want to invest fewer of your assets in this fund if you:
- are investing with a shorter investment time horizon in mind
- are seeking income rather than capital gain
or
- are uncomfortable with an investment whose value may vary substantially
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
Who makes the investment decisions for this fund?
MEMBERS Capital Advisors as adviser may use one or more subadvisers with any of the MEMBERS Funds under a "manager of managers" approach. Paradigm Asset Management Company, LLC is currently the only subadviser for the Small Cap Growth Fund. James E. Francis, Jeffrey E. Marcus and Gregory Pai are the funds portfolio managers responsible for deciding which securities are purchased or sold in the Small Cap Growth Fund. See page 18 for further information regarding the portfolio managers.
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
What is this fund's goal?
The SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND seeks long-term capital appreciation.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
How does this fund pursue its objective?
The fund invests primarily in a diversified mix of common stocks of small U.S. companies that the subadviser believes have high earnings growth rates. For purposes of this fund, "small cap companies" are those with market capitalizations that are within the range of capitalizations of companies represented in either the S&P 600 Index ($54 million to $4.2 billion as of December 31, 2005) or the Russell 2000(R) Index ($105 million to $4.4 billion as of December 31, 2005).
The fund may also invest in warrants, preferred stocks and debt securities including non-investment grade convertible debt securities. The fund may invest in Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) that are registered investment companies.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
What are the main risks of investing in this fund?
As with any fund that invests in equity securities, this fund is subject to MARKET RISK, the risk that the value of an investment will fluctuate in response to stock market movements. Loss of money is a significant risk of investing in this fund. Due to its focus on stocks of growth companies, particularly those of small capitalization companies, it will typically experience significant volatility over time. Securities of small capitalization companies may experience greater price volatility than securities of larger capitalization companies because growth prospects for these companies may be less certain and the market for such securities may be smaller.
The Fund may invest in stocks that are considered "growth" stocks. Growth stocks can perform differently from the market as a whole and other types of stocks and tend to be more expensive relative to their earnings or assets compared with other types of stocks. As a result, growth stocks tend to be more sensitive to changes in their earnings and can be more volatile than other types of stocks.
Some growth-oriented companies may not have established financial histories and often have limited product lines, markets or financial resources, and may depend on a few key personnel for management. Such companies may be susceptible to losses and risks of bankruptcy.
To the extent that the fund invests in other higher-risk securities, it takes on additional risks that could adversely affect its performance.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION IS NOT AVAILABLE BECAUSE THE FUND IS NEW. PERFORMANCE INFORMATION WILL BE AVAILABLE ONCE THE FUND HAS COMPLETED ONE CALENDAR YEAR.
FEES AND EXPENSES
The following tables describe the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the funds. Actual expenses may be greater or less than those shown.
SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES (paid directly from your investment)
SMALL SMALL CAP CAP CLASS VALUE GROWTH ----- ----- ------ MAXIMUM SALES CHARGE ON PURCHASES(1) A 5.75% 5.75% (as a percentage of offering price) B None None Y None None MAXIMUM DEFERRED SALES CHARGE(1) A None(2) None(2) B 4.5%(3) 4.5%(3) Y None None REDEMPTION/EXCHANGE FEE(4) A 2.0% 2.0% (as a percentage of amount redeemed) B 2.0% 2.0% Y None None |
(1) The sales charge you pay may be higher or lower than what is disclosed due to standard industry practice to round the public offering price to two decimal places when calculating the number of shares purchased, and to round the number of shares purchased to three decimal places. Please refer to the SAI for additional information.
(2) Class A share purchases of $1,000,000 or more are not subject to a front-end load but may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) of up to 1% (see "Class B Shares" page 11).
(3) The CDSC is reduced after 12 months and eliminated after six years following the purchase (see "Class B Shares," page 11).
(4) A 2% redemption fee will be charged if you redeem shares, other than shares acquired through reinvestment of dividends and distributions, of Class A and Class B shares within 30 calendar days of purchase (see "Redemption Fees," page 12).
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (deducted from fund assets and reflected in the
fund price)
CLASS A
ESTIMATED TOTAL EXPENSE NET FUND MANAGEMENT(1) 12B-1(2) SERVICE(3) OTHER(4) EXPENSES REIMBURSEMENT(5) EXPENSES ---- ------------- -------- ---------- --------- -------- ---------------- -------- SMALL CAP VALUE 1.0% None 0.25% 1.5% SMALL CAP GROWTH 1.0% None 0.25% 1.5% |
CLASS B
ESTIMATED TOTAL EXPENSE NET FUND MANAGEMENT(1) 12B-1(2) SERVICE(3) OTHER(4) EXPENSES REIMBURSEMENT(5) EXPENSES ---- ------------- -------- ---------- --------- -------- ---------------- -------- SMALL CAP VALUE 1.0% 0.75% 0.25% 2.25% SMALL CAP GROWTH 1.0% 0.75% 0.25% 2.25% |
CLASS Y
ESTIMATED TOTAL EXPENSE NET FUND MANAGEMENT(1) 12B-1(2) SERVICE(3) OTHER(4) EXPENSES REIMBURSEMENT(5) EXPENSES ---- ------------- -------- ---------- --------- -------- ---------------- -------- SMALL CAP VALUE 1.0% None None 1.0% SMALL CAP GROWTH 1.0% None None 1.0% |
(1) The management fee is the amount paid to the investment adviser for managing each fund's portfolio and assisting in other aspects of its operations.
(2) Distribution or "12b-1" fees (Class B only) are the fees each fund pays its distributor, CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. (CUNA Brokerage), to cover its distribution-related expenses (including commissions paid to dealers) or distribution-related expenses of dealers.
(3) The service fee is paid to the fund's distributor for account service and maintenance.
(4) Since this fund is new, other expenses are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year.
(5) The funds' investment adviser, MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., has placed a "cap" on the funds' expenses by contractually agreeing until at least February 28, 2008, to reimburse each fund's expenses, other than its management, 12b-1, and service fees, that exceed a certain amount excluding taxes, interest, and other extraordinary items. Any reimbursements made by MEMBERS Capital Advisors to a fund are subject to repayment by the fund within the subsequent three years, to the extent that the fund can make the repayment while remaining within its expense cap.
EXAMPLES
Examples shown below are intended to help you compare the cost of investing in each fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The examples show what expenses you would pay if you INVESTED $10,000 in each fund over the various time periods indicated. The examples assume you reinvested all dividends and distributions, that the average annual return for each fund was 5%, and that the funds' operating expenses remain the same. The examples do not reflect sales charges (loads) on reinvested dividends and other distributions. If these sales charges (loads) were included, your costs would have been higher.
Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, assuming total operating expenses (after expense reimbursement) and that you redeemed your entire investment at the end of each period, your total estimated expenses would be:
CLASS A CLASS B CLASS Y --------------- --------------- --------------- FUND YEAR 1 YEAR 3 YEAR 1 YEAR 3 YEAR 1 YEAR 3 ---- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Small Cap Value Small Cap Growth |
Assuming net operating expenses (after expense reimbursement) and that you did not redeem your entire investment at the end of each period:
CLASS A CLASS B CLASS Y --------------- --------------- --------------- FUND YEAR 1 YEAR 3 YEAR 1 YEAR 3 YEAR 1 YEAR 3 ---- ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Small Cap Value Small Cap Growth |
THE ABOVE EXAMPLES REFLECT CONTRACTUAL WAIVERS AND EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENTS THROUGH FEBRUARY 28, 2008. THESE EXAMPLES ARE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES ONLY AND ARE NOT A REPRESENTATION OF THE FUNDS' ACTUAL EXPENSES AND RETURNS, EITHER PAST OR FUTURE. ACTUAL EXPENSES MAY BE GREATER OR LESS THAN THOSE SHOWN ABOVE.
YOUR ACCOUNT
The following pages describe the differences between the MEMBERS Mutual Funds share classes offered through this prospectus, and explain how you can invest with MEMBERS Mutual Funds. NOTE: MOST OF THE INFORMATION ON HOW TO OPEN AN ACCOUNT, PURCHASE, EXCHANGE, OR SELL SHARES WILL NOT BE RELEVANT TO YOU IF YOU HAVE A BROKERAGE ACCOUNT. If you have such an account, simply contact your financial representative and they will be able to assist you with all your transaction needs. Regardless of the type of account, the first step to investing with MEMBERS Mutual Funds is to carefully read this entire prospectus.
CHOOSING A SHARE CLASS
MEMBERS Mutual Funds offers three classes of shares through this prospectus, Class A, Class B and Class Y. Other share classes may be made available in the future through other distribution channels. Each share class represents investments in the same portfolio of securities, but each class has its own expense structure. For a description of the expenses imposed on each class, please see the expense tables earlier in this prospectus. Class A and Class B shares are described in more detail below. Class Y shares are only available for purchase by the MEMBERS Funds and its other affiliated Asset Allocation Funds which are offered through separate prospectuses.
When deciding which share class is best for you, carefully consider:
- how long you plan to own the fund shares;
- how much you intend to invest;
- the total expenses you'll pay for each class; and
- whether you qualify for any reduction or waiver of sales charges.
CLASS A shares typically charge a front-end sales charge or "load" that is deducted from your initial investment. Often Class A shares offer you discounts (the discount increases as the size of your investment increases), called "breakpoints," on the front-end sales charge if you:
- make a large purchase;
- already hold other mutual funds offered by the same fund family; or
- have family members (or others with whom you may link according to fund rules) who hold funds in the same fund family.
CLASS B shares do not impose a front-end sales charge that is deducted from your initial investment, but they do impose a 12b-1 fee that will result in higher annual operating expenses than you would incur if you purchased Class A shares. Over time, these fees will increase the cost of investing and may make the Class B charges more than the Class A. FOR THIS REASON AND OTHERS, MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS DOES NOT NORMALLY ACCEPT PURCHASE ORDERS OF $50,000 OR MORE FOR CLASS B SHARES FROM A SINGLE INVESTOR.
Class B shares also normally impose a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), which you pay if you sell your shares within a certain number of years. The CDSC normally gets smaller each year and eventually is eliminated after several years. Selling Class B shares during the period in which the CDSC applies can significantly diminish the overall return on your investment, especially when coupled with the higher annual expenses charged when you hold Class B shares. Class B shares "convert" into Class A shares after a certain number years. When they convert, they will begin to charge the same annual fund operating expenses as Class A shares.
EACH INDIVIDUAL'S INVESTMENT NEEDS ARE DIFFERENT. YOU SHOULD SPEAK WITH YOUR
FINANCIAL REPRESENTATIVE TO REVIEW YOUR INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES, WHICH WILL HELP
YOU DECIDE WHICH SHARE CLASS IS RIGHT FOR YOU.
HOW TO CONTACT US
You can reach a MEMBERS Mutual Funds shareholder services representative by calling 1-800-877-6089 weekdays, 8:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. Central Time.
Mail all general inquiries, new account applications, and transaction requests as follows:
REGULAR MAIL: EXPRESS, CERTIFIED OR REGISTERED MAIL: MEMBERS Mutual Funds MEMBERS Mutual Funds P. O. Box 8390 c/o BFDS Boston, MA 02266-8390 30 Dan Road Canton, MA 02021-2809 |
OPENING AN ACCOUNT
1. Carefully read this prospectus.
2. Determine how much you want to invest. The minimum investment amounts are as follows:
Type of Account To Open an Account To Add to an Account(1) --------------- ------------------ ----------------------- Non-retirement account $1,000 $150 ($1,000 per fund) ($50 per fund) Retirement account $500 $150 ($500 per fund) ($50 per fund) Systematic investment programs(2) Twice Monthly or Biweekly(3) $ 25 $ 25 Monthly $ 50 $ 50 Bimonthly (every other month) $100 $100 Quarterly $150 $150 |
(1) The funds reserve the right to accept purchase amounts below the minimum
when adding to an account as long as the minimum initial investment to open
an account has been met, and for accounts that are funded with pre-tax or
salary reduction contributions which include SEPs, 401(k) plans, 403 (b)
(7) arrangements, code section 457 non-qualified deferred compensation
plans, and other pension and profit sharing plans.
(2) Regardless of frequency, the minimum investment allowed is $50 per fund per month.
(3) Only one fund can be opened under the twice monthly or biweekly options and all purchases need to be directed to that fund.
3. Carefully complete the appropriate parts of the account application, including the account privileges section of the application. By applying for privileges now, you can avoid the delay and inconvenience of having to file an additional form if you want to add privileges later. If you have questions, please contact your financial representative or MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
WHEN OPENING A NEW ACCOUNT, THE FUND IS REQUIRED BY LAW TO OBTAIN CERTAIN PERSONAL INFORMATION FROM YOU TO VERIFY YOUR IDENTITY, INCLUDING NAME, ADDRESS, DATE OF BIRTH, AND OTHER INFORMATION THAT WILL ALLOW US TO IDENTIFY YOU. IF YOU DO NOT PROVIDE THE INFORMATION, THE FUND'S TRANSFER AGENT, ON BEHALF OF THE FUND, MAY NOT BE ABLE TO OPEN YOUR ACCOUNT. IF THE TRANSFER AGENT IS UNABLE TO VERIFY YOUR IDENTITY, THE FUND RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CLOSE YOUR ACCOUNT OR TAKE SUCH OTHER ACTION DEEMED REASONABLE OR REQUIRED BY LAW.
PURCHASING SHARES
The following explains how to purchase shares by check, wire, phone, exchange, or Internet.
OPENING AN ACCOUNT ADDING TO AN ACCOUNT ------------------ -------------------- BY CHECK Make out a check for the investment Make out a check for the investment amount, payable to MEMBERS Mutual payable to MEMBERS Mutual Funds. Funds. Deliver the check and your completed Complete the detachable investment slip application to your financial from an account statement. If no slip is representative or mail to MEMBERS available, send a letter the fund name, specifying Mutual Funds. share class, your account number and the name(s) in which the account is registered. Mail to MEMBERS Mutual Funds. A charge of $30 will be assessed for each returned check occurrence. BY WIRE Deliver your completed application to Call MEMBERS Mutual Funds at your financial representative or mail 1-800-877-6089. Provide the fund name, to MEMBERS Mutual Funds. share class, your account number, the name in which the account is registered, and the amount of your investment to be sent by wire. Obtain your account number by calling Instruct your credit union or financial your financial representative or institution to wire the amount of your MEMBERS Mutual Funds at investment to State Street Bank & Trust 1-800-877-6089. Company: ABA#: 0110-0002-8 FBO: MEMBERS Mutual Funds DDA#: 9905-510-5 FBO: (Shareholder name/account number) Instruct your credit union or financial institution to wire the amount of your investment to State Street Bank & Trust Company as indicated above. |
OPENING AN ACCOUNT ADDING TO AN ACCOUNT ------------------ -------------------- BY PHONE Not currently available. Call MEMBERS Mutual Funds at 1-800-877-6089 to verify that these features are in place on your account. You are automatically eligible to purchase shares by phone, upon set-up of ACH electronic funds transfer, unless you indicate otherwise in the account options section of your application. To place your purchase order, call MEMBERS Mutual Funds between 8:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. Central Time or use our automated touchtone services 24-hours a day. BY EXCHANGE (Available for accounts of any type and sales of any amount.) Make sure that you have a current Make sure that you have a current prospectus for the MEMBERS Mutual prospectus for the MEMBERS Mutual Funds, Funds, which can be obtained by which can be obtained by calling your financial representative or MEMBERS financial calling your representative or Mutual Funds at 1-800-877-6089. MEMBERS Mutual Funds at 1-800-877-6089. Call your financial representative, Call your financial representative, MEMBERS Mutual Funds at MEMBERS Mutual Funds at 1-800-877-6089, 1-800-877-6089, or use the Internet or use the Internet at at www.membersfunds.com to request an www.membersfunds.com to request an exchange. You can only open up a new exchange. fund position in an existing account by exchange. BY INTERNET (Access 24-hours a day at www.membersfunds.com.) Not currently available. Call MEMBERS Mutual Funds at 1-800-877-6089 to verify that these features are in place on your account. You are automatically eligible to purchase shares by Internet, upon set-up of ACH electronic funds transfer, unless you indicate otherwise in the account options section of your application. Or check your profile on the Internet. The feature button will be activated if you are eligible to purchase shares. |
PURCHASE ORDERS ACCEPTED BY THE FUND AFTER 3:00 P.M. CENTRAL TIME
(4:00 P.M. EASTERN) WILL BE PROCESSED USING THE NEXT DAY'S NET ASSET VALUE.
PURCHASING BY EXCHANGE
Within an account, you may exchange shares of one fund for shares of the same class of another fund, without paying any additional sales charge; however, in certain circumstances you may be charged a 2% redemption fee on the value of the shares exchanged pursuant to the fund's redemption fee policy (see "Redemption Fees," page 12). With the exception of the Cash Reserves Fund, a portfolio of the Trust that is offered through another prospectus, only five (5) exchanges are allowed per fund in a calendar year. If you establish a systematic exchange or automatic account rebalancing program (see page 17), those exchanges are not included in the exchange limit or redemption fee policies. Class B shares will continue to "age" from the date of purchase of the original fund and will retain the same CDSC rate as they had before the exchange. The funds reserve the right to require that previously exchanged shares (and reinvested dividends) be in a fund for 90 days before an investor is permitted a new exchange. A fund may change its exchange policy at any time upon 60 days' notice to its shareholders.
It is important to note that additional restrictions may apply if you invest through a financial intermediary. MEMBERS Mutual Funds will work with financial intermediaries, such as broker/dealers, investment advisors and record keepers to apply the funds' exchange limit guidelines, but in some instances, the fund is limited in its ability to monitor the trade activity or enforce the funds' exchange limit guidelines in such accounts. In addition, a different exchange limit may apply for accounts held by certain institutional retirement plans to conform to plan exchange limits and Department of Labor guidelines.
SALES CHARGES AND FEES
The following discussion explains how sales charges on your purchases of a fund are calculated. Before investing in mutual funds, it is important that you understand the sales charges that you will be charged.
CLASS A SHARES
Class A shares are offered at a price that includes an initial "front-end" sales charge that is deducted from your investment at the time you purchase shares. Depending upon the amount you invest, the sales charge may be reduced and or eliminated for larger purchases as indicated below.
SMALL CAP VALUE FUND SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND ------------------------------------ DEALER SALES CHARGE AS A % OF: COMMISSION ----------------------- AS A % OF OFFERING NET AMOUNT OFFERING INVESTMENT AMOUNT PRICE(1) INVESTED Price(2) ----------------- -------- ---------- ---------- Under $25,000 5.75% 6.10% 5.00% $25,000 to $49,999 5.00% 5.26% 4.50% $50,000 to $99,999 4.50% 4.71% 4.00% $100,000 to $249,999 3.50% 3.63% 3.00% $250,000 to $499,999 2.50% 2.56% 2.00% $500,000 to $999,999 1.50% 1.52% 1.20% $1 million and Over None(3) None 0.80%(4) |
(1) The sales charge you pay may be higher or lower than what is disclosed due to standard industry practice to round the public offering price to two decimal places when calculating the number of shares purchased, and to round the number of shares purchased to three decimal places. Please refer to the SAI for additional information.
(2) The portion of the sales charge the distributor, CUNA Brokerage, pays to broker/dealers for selling the funds' shares. The broker/dealer passes along a portion of this compensation to your financial representative. From time-to-time, the distributor, at its discretion, may pass along to the broker/dealers the entire sales charge paid as a percentage of offering price as part of a sales program, although it has not done so as of the date of this prospectus.
(3) A contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) may be assessed on certain purchases of Class A shares of over $1,000,000 at a rate of 1.0% in the first year and 0.5% in the second year following the purchase.
(4) The distributor may pay a commission up to 0.8% on certain purchases of Class A shares over $1,000,000 on which no initial sales charge was paid, with a maximum commission of 0.5% on purchases over $3,000,000.
Generally, as the amount of purchase increases, the percentage used to determine the sales load decreases. In addition to a single mutual fund purchase, you may be entitled to receive a discount or qualify to purchase Class A shares without a sales charge based on rights of accumulation or by using a letter of intent as described below.
CLASS A SALES CHARGE REDUCTIONS AND WAIVERS
In order to ensure that you receive a reduction or waiver of your Class A sales charge, you need to inform your financial representative or MEMBERS Mutual Funds at the time you purchase shares that you qualify for such a reduction or waiver. If notification is not provided, you may not receive the sales charge discount or waiver to which you are otherwise entitled. MEMBERS Mutual Funds may require evidence, and reserves the right to request additional documentation, including account statements of all relevant accounts invested in the MEMBERS Mutual Funds, to verify you are eligible for a reduction or waiver of sales charges.
FOR BOTH THE CLASS A SHARE SALES CHARGE REDUCTION AND WAIVER PRIVILEGES, THE TERM "IMMEDIATE FAMILY" IS DEFINED AS YOU, YOUR SPOUSE AND YOUR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 21.
CLASS A SALES CHARGE REDUCTIONS
There are several ways investors and certain qualified pension plans may combine multiple purchases to reduce Class A sales charges:
RIGHTS OF COMBINATION. Purchases may be combined to reduce Class A sales charges if made by:
- you and your immediate family for your own account(s), including individual retirement, custodial and personal trust accounts;
- a trustee or other fiduciary purchasing for a single trust, estate or fiduciary account; and
- groups which qualify for the Group Investment Program as described in the SAI.
RIGHTS OF ACCUMULATION. You may add the current market value of your existing holdings in any fund and class of shares of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds (including combinations), to the amount of your next purchase of Class A shares to qualify for reduced sales charges. The current value of existing investments in your MEMBERS variable annuity contract may also be taken into account to determine your Class A sales charges.
LETTER OF INTENT. You may purchase Class A shares of a fund over a 13-month period and receive the same sales charge as if all shares had been purchased at once by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI). Such an investment (including combinations) must aggregate at least $25,000 if investing in equity funds or at least $50,000 ore more if investing in bond funds during the 13-month period from the date of the LOI or from a date within ninety (90) days prior thereto, upon written request to MEMBERS Mutual Funds. For the purposes of calculating if the total investment amount specified in the LOI has been met, historical cost of the original shares purchased will be used, and reinvested dividends and capital gains are not included. A small portion of the initial purchase (approximately 5% of the aggregate) will be held in escrow to cover the difference in Class A sales charges that may be due if your total investments over the 13-month period do not qualify for the sales charge reduction you received. The escrowed shares will be released upon completion of the LOI or at the end of the 13-month period, whichever comes first.
CLASS A SALES CHARGE WAIVERS
Class A shares may be purchased without front-end sales charges by the following individuals and institutions:
- Credit union employees and their immediate family, when purchasing shares for their own personal accounts.
- Registered representatives of broker/dealers and registered investment advisors authorized to sell the funds when purchasing shares for their own account or for the benefit of their immediate family.
- Individuals and their immediate family who within the past twelve months were trustees, directors, officers, or employees of the CUNA Mutual Group or any of its affiliated companies, or any trust, pension, profit sharing or other benefit plan which beneficially owns shares for those persons, provided the purchase is made directly by mail, internet or telephone without the consultation of a registered representative. If the purchase is made through a registered representative, sales charges as described in this prospectus may apply.
- Individuals and their immediate family who within the past twelve months were trustees or employees of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds and Ultra Series Fund Boards of Trustees; or any trust, pension, profit sharing or other benefit plan which beneficially owns shares for those persons.
- Individuals and their immediate family who are trustees, directors, officers or employees of the adviser, subadviser, or service providers of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
- Credit union system-affiliated institutional investors and other non-profit organizations as described in section 501(c)(3) of the internal revenue code.
- Certain qualified defined benefit or qualified defined contribution pension plans, including 401(k) plans, with over $250,000 of assets.
Class A shares may be purchased without front-end sales charges in the following transactions:
- In fee-based accounts under an agreement with the distributor or investment adviser of MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
- With proceeds from the liquidation of a CUNA Mutual-affiliated pension product. (For employees of CUNA Mutual Group or any of its affiliated companies the sales charge waiver applies provided the purchase is made directly by mail, internet or telephone without the consultation of a registered representative. If the purchase is made through a registered representative, sales charge as described in this prospectus may apply.
- In Retirement Health Care Funding Program accounts (FAS 106) and Employee Option Plan accounts administered by CUNA Mutual Group.
- Reinvestment of dividends or capital gains from one of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
- By exchange from one MEMBERS Mutual Fund to another.
- Pursuant to the funds' reinstatement or reinvestment privilege (see the SAI for more information).
- From the proceeds of shares of another MEMBERS Mutual Funds account on which a load was already paid.
CLASS B SHARES
Class B shares are sold without any initial sales charge. The distributor pays a commission equal to 4% of the amount invested to broker/dealers who sell Class B shares. Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares, based on relative net asset value, at the end of the eighth year after purchase.
For Class B shares, a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) may be applied on shares you sell within six years of purchase as indicated below.
Years After Purchase 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 -------------------- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- CDSC 4.5% 4.0% 3.5% 3.0% 2.0% 1.0% None |
The CDSC is based on the original purchase cost or the current net asset value of the shares being sold, whichever is less. The longer the time between the purchase and the sale of shares, the lower the rate of the CDSC. There is no CDSC on shares acquired through reinvestment of dividends or capital gain distributions. Certain withdrawals, including those made through a systematic withdrawal program, may not be subject to a CDSC. For more information, see "Class B CDSC Waivers," page 12.
For purposes of computing CDSC, all purchases made during a calendar month are counted as having been made on the FIRST day of that month. To minimize your CDSC, each time you place a request to sell shares we will first sell any shares in your account that are not subject to a CDSC. If there are not enough of these to meet your request, we will sell those shares that you have owned for the longest period of time. Specifically, we will sell shares that represent share price increases (if any) first, then dividends, then the oldest-aged shares.
For example, assume that you purchased 100 shares of a fund on January 1, Year 1 for $10 per share, another 100 shares on January 1, Year 2 for $15 per share, and another 100 shares on January 1, Year 3 for $20 per share. Also assume that dividends of $1.50 and $2.00 per share were paid on December 31, Year 1 and Year 2, respectively, and reinvested. Your account can be summarized as:
PRICE PER SHARES TOTAL ACCOUNT DATE ACTION SHARE PURCHASED SHARES VALUE ---- ------ --------- --------- ------ ------- January 1, Year 1 Purchased shares $10 100 100 $1,000 December 31, Year 1 Reinvested dividends $15 10 110 $1,650 January 1, Year 2 Purchased shares $15 100 210 $3,150 December 31, Year 2 Reinvested dividends $20 21 231 $4,620 January 1, Year 3 Purchased shares $20 100 331 $6,620 |
Assume further that you sell 200 shares in Year 3 and that the share price as of the end of the day you sell your shares is $20. The $6,620 in your account can be broken down into share price increases of $1,500 (100 shares appreciated from $10 to $20 per share; 100 shares appreciated from $15 to $20 per share; and 100 shares have not appreciated), dividends of $620 ($200, $150 on 12/31 in Year 1 plus $50 in share price increases; and $420 on 12/31 in Year 2), and purchase payments of $4,500 ($1,000 in Year 1, $1,500 in Year 2, and $2,000 in Year 3). You would incur the following CDSC charges:
TYPE OF SHARES SOLD (IN ORDER) AMOUNT CDSC (%) CDSC ($) ------------------------------ ------ -------- -------- Share price increases of purchased shares $1,500 None None Dividends (including share price increases) $ 620 None None Aged Shares (oldest sold first): Purchased January 1, Year 1 $1,000 3.5%(1) $35.00 Purchased January 1, Year 2 $ 880(2) 4.0%(1) $35.20 TOTAL $4,000 1.75%(3) $70.20 |
(1) As a percentage of original purchase payment.
(2) $620 of the original $1,500 purchase payment would remain available for redemption.
(3) As a percentage of the amount redeemed.
CLASS B CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE (CDSC) WAIVERS
In order to ensure you receive a waiver of the CDSC on redemptions of your Class B shares, you need to notify your financial representative or MEMBERS Mutual Funds that you qualify for such a waiver at the time you redeem the shares. If notice is not provided, you may not receive the waiver to which you are otherwise entitled. MEMBERS Mutual Funds may require evidence, and reserves the right to request additional documentation, to verify you are eligible for a waiver of sales charges.
The CDSC may be waived on redemptions of Class B shares under the following circumstances:
- If you have established a systematic withdrawal plan, as long as the redemptions do not exceed 12% of the value of an account annually (calculated at the time of the withdrawal).
- Due to death or disability.
- For the following types of transactions in individual retirement accounts (IRAs) or other qualified retirement plans described under section 401(a), unless otherwise noted:
- returns of excess contributions;
- qualified hardship withdrawals; and
- required minimum distributions or to effect life expectancy distributions scheduled under the equal periodic payment exception (sometimes referred to as the 72t exception).
- Pursuant to the Trust's right to liquidate small accounts (see "General Policies-Small Accounts," page 15).
CLASS Y SHARES
CLASS Y SHARES. Class Y shares are sold without the imposition of a sales charge and are only available for purchase by the MEMBERS Funds and its other affiliated Asset Allocation Funds which are offered through separate prospectuses.
Please refer to the SAI or the funds' website at www.membersfunds.com for additional information on sales charge reductions and waivers. The SAI is available free of charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-877-6089. The funds' website includes hyperlinks to the information provided herein and to the additional information that is referenced in the SAI.
REDEMPTION FEES
You will be charged a 2% redemption fee if you redeem or exchange Class A and Class B shares of the Small Cap Value Fund and Small Cap Growth Fund within 30 calendar days of purchase. MEMBERS Mutual Funds' Class Y shares are not subject to redemption fees at this time.
All redemption fees charged are for the benefit of the then current shareholders and paid directly to the fund from which the shares were redeemed to help offset any trading costs, market impact and/or other costs associated with short-term trading in and out of the funds.
Redemption fees are assessed on the current market value of the shares being redeemed. For the purpose of applying the redemption fee, shares will be redeemed in the order of their purchase with those held the longest being redeemed first. Shares transferred to a different account registration or converted to a different share class will retain their original purchase date and continue to be subject to redemption fees.
REDEMPTION FEE WAIVERS
The 2% redemption fee will not be charged to:
- Shares redeemed that are acquired through the automatic reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions.
- Shares redeemed under a regularly scheduled systematic withdrawal, systematic exchange, or automatic account rebalancing program (see "Additional Investor Services," page 16).
- Shares redeemed due to death or disability.
- Shares redeemed for the following types of transactions in individual retirement accounts (IRAs) other qualified retirement plans described under section 401(a) and 457 non-qualified deferred compensation plans, unless otherwise noted:
- returns of excess contributions;
- qualified hardship withdrawals; and
- required minimum distributions or to effect life expectancy distributions scheduled under the equal periodic payment exception (sometimes referred to as the 72t exception).
- Shares redeemed pursuant to the Trust's right to liquidate small accounts (see "General Policies-Small Accounts," page 16).
- Shares redeemed in fee-based accounts under agreement with the distributor or investment adviser of MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
- Shares redeemed in certain omnibus and financial intermediary accounts where the omnibus or intermediary account holder does not have the capability to impose a redemption fee on its underlying customers' accounts.
The funds reserve the right to waive or impose redemption fees or withdraw waivers at their discretion, to the extent permitted by law. In addition, the funds reserve the right to modify or eliminate redemption fees or waivers without giving advance notice to shareholders, but any such modification or elimination will be imposed prospectively only.
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLANS
SERVICE FEES. Class A and B shares of each of the funds, pays its principal underwriter, CUNA Brokerage, a service fee equal to 0.25% of the average daily net assets attributable to each class of shares of that fund. The service fee is used by CUNA Brokerage to cover its costs of servicing shareholder accounts or to compensate other qualified broker/dealers who sell shares of the funds pursuant to agreements with CUNA Brokerage for their costs of servicing shareholder accounts. CUNA Brokerage may retain any portion of the service fee for which there is no broker/dealer of record as partial consideration for its services with respect to shareholder accounts. Class Y shares do not impose a service fee.
DISTRIBUTION OR "12B-1" FEES (CLASS B ONLY). The Trust has adopted a distribution plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Under the terms of the plan, each fund pays CUNA Brokerage a fee equal to 0.75% of the average daily net assets attributable to Class B shares of that fund. CUNA Brokerage may use this fee to cover its distribution-related expenses of broker/dealers (including commissions paid for selling Class B shares). This fee increases the cost of investment in the Class B shares of a fund, and over time may cost more than paying the initial sales charge for Class A shares.
OTHER COMPENSATION TO BROKER/DEALERS
Periodically, the distributor may conduct or pay for educational meetings for the purpose of training representatives selling MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
SELLING SHARES
The following explains how to sell your shares by letter, phone, exchange, or Internet. You may sell shares at any time. Upon request, your shares will be sold at the next net asset value (NAV) calculated after your order is accepted in good order by the fund. Your order will be processed promptly.
In certain circumstances, you will need to make your request to sell shares in writing, which may require sending additional documents. In addition, you will need to obtain a STAMP2000 MEDALLION SIGNATURE GUARANTEE "SIGNATURE GUARANTEE" if the redemption is:
- over $50,000;
- made payable to someone other than the registered shareholder(s); or
- mailed to an address other than the address of record, or an address that has been changed within the last 30 days.
You can generally obtain a signature guarantee from a credit union or other
financial institution, a broker or securities dealer, or a securities exchange
or clearing agency. A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REQUIRE A SIGNATURE GUARANTEE ON ANY
REDEMPTION.
Write a letter of instruction indicating your account number, fund name, the name in which the account is registered and the dollar value or number of shares you wish to sell. Mail your letter, and any other required materials, to MEMBERS Mutual Funds using the address on page 6. A check will be mailed to the name and address in which the account is registered.
A WRITTEN LETTER OF INSTRUCTION TO IF YOU ARE: SELL SHARES MUST INCLUDE: ----------- ------------------------------------------------------ An owner of an - The signatures and titles of all persons individual, joint, sole authorized to sign for the account, exactly as proprietorship, the account is registered. UGMA/UTMA (custodial accounts for minors) or - Signature guarantee if applicable. general partner account |
An owner of a corporate - Corporate resolution, certified within the past or association account 60 days, specifying the individual(s) authorized to sell securities. - On the letter and the resolution, the signature of the person(s) authorized to sign for the account. - Signature guarantee if applicable. An owner or trustee of - The signature(s) of the trustee(s). a trust account - If the names of all trustees are not registered on the account, also provide a copy of the trust document certified within the past 60 days, specifying the individual(s) authorized to sell securities. - Signature guarantee if applicable. A joint tenancy - The signature of the surviving tenant. shareholder whose - Certified copy of death certificate of the deceased co-tenant. - Tax waiver (if applicable in your state). Deceased - Signature guarantee if applicable. An executor of a - The signature of the executor. shareholder's estate - Copy of the order appointing the executor, certified within the past 60 days. - Tax waiver (if applicable in your state). - Signature guarantee required. For other account types - Call MEMBERS Mutual Funds at 1-800-877-6089 for not listed above instructions. |
BY PHONE
(Available for most accounts and sales of up to $50,000.)
To place your redemption order, call MEMBERS Mutual Funds between 8:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. Central Time or use our automated touchtone services 24-hours a day. Redemption requests may be placed on all business days (excluding market holidays). Checks are mailed the next business day after the redemption request is effective.
Redemption proceeds can be sent by electronic funds transfer (EFT) provided that you have pre-authorized banking information on file with MEMBERS Mutual Funds. Redemption proceeds from EFT transactions are generally available by the second business day. MEMBERS Mutual Funds does not charge for EFT, however, your credit union or other financial institution may charge a fee for this service.
Amounts of $1,000 or more can be wired on the next business day, provided that you have pre-authorized the wiring of funds and the needed information is on file with MEMBERS Mutual Funds. A $10 fee will be deducted from your account to send the wire; your credit union or other financial institution may charge an additional fee to accept the wired funds.
BY EXCHANGE
(Available for accounts of any type and sales of any amount.)
Make sure that you have a current prospectus for the MEMBERS Mutual Funds, which can be obtained by calling your financial representative or MEMBERS Mutual Funds at 1-800-877-6089.
Call your financial representative, MEMBERS Mutual Funds, or use the Internet at www.membersfunds.com.
BY INTERNET
Not currently available.
REDEMPTION REQUESTS RECEIVED AND ACCEPTED BY THE FUND AFTER 3:00 P.M. CENTRAL
TIME (4:00 P.M. EASTERN) WILL BE PROCESSED USING THE NEXT DAY'S NET ASSET VALUE.
GENERAL POLICIES
LIMITATION ON PURCHASES. If you purchase shares by check and your check does not clear, your purchase will be canceled and you could be liable for any losses or fees incurred. We do not accept third-party checks, starter checks, credit cards, credit card checks, or cash to purchase shares. All purchase payments must be denominated in U. S. dollars and drawn on or from U.S. credit unions or other financial institutions. ADDITIONALLY, WE WILL NOT NORMALLY ACCEPT PURCHASE ORDERS OF $50,000 OR MORE FOR CLASS B SHARES FROM A SINGLE INVESTOR.
PRICING OF FUND SHARES. The net asset value per share (NAV) for each fund and class is determined each business day at the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (typically 3 P.M. Central Time) by dividing the net assets of each fund and class by the number of shares outstanding of that fund and class. Transaction requests received after 3:00 P.M. Central Time will be processed using the next day's NAV.
For all funds, a fund's NAV is equal to the market value of its investments and other assets, less any liabilities, divided by the number of fund shares.
If quotations are not readily available for a security or other portfolio investment, or if it is believed that a quotation or other market price for a security or other portfolio investment does not represent its fair value, MEMBERS Capital Advisors may value the security or investment using procedures approved by the funds' board of trustees that are designed to establish its "fair" value. The fair valuation procedures may be used to value any investment of any fund in the appropriate circumstances. Securities and other investments valued at their "fair" value entail significantly greater valuation risk than do securities and other investments valued at an established market value.
MEMBERS Capital Advisors relies on its fair value procedures most often in connection with FOREIGN SECURITIES whose principal trading market(s) is outside the U.S. and/or are denominated in a foreign currency. From time to time, events occur that affect the issuers of such FOREIGN SECURITIES or the securities themselves, or information about the issuer or securities becomes available, after the close of trading in the securities but before 3:00 P.M. Central Time. In these situations, the fair value of the FOREIGN SECURITY may be something other than the last available quotation or other market price. With regard to such FOREIGN SECURITIES, the fair valuation procedures include consultation with an independent "fair value" pricing service. Nonetheless, MEMBERS Capital Advisors separately evaluates each such foreign security and may, in conformity with the fair valuation procedures, establish a different fair value than that reached by the independent pricing service or other financial institutions or investment managers.
Determining the fair value of securities involves consideration of objective factors as well as the application of subjective judgments about their issuers and the markets in which they are traded. A number of methodologies are available for determining the value of securities for which there is no clear market value or for which after-market events make prior market values unreliable. The value established by MEMBERS Capital Advisors under the fair valuation procedures for any security or other investment may vary from the last quoted sale price or market close price, or from the value given to the same security or investment by: (1) an independent pricing service, (2) other financial institutions or investment managers, or (3) MEMBERS Capital Advisors had it used a different methodology to value the security. The Trust and MEMBERS Capital Advisors cannot assure that a security or other portfolio investment can be sold at the fair value assigned to it at any time.
To the extent the funds hold portfolio securities that are primarily listed on foreign exchanges that trade on weekends or other days when the funds do not price their shares, the NAV of such funds' shares may change on days when shareholders will not be able to purchase or redeem the funds' shares.
BUY AND SELL PRICES. When you buy shares, you pay the NAV plus any applicable sales charges, as described earlier. When you sell shares, you receive the NAV minus any applicable CDSC and redemption fee. Purchase orders and redemption and exchange requests will be executed at the price next determined after the order or request is received in good order by MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO INFORMATION. The fund may make selective disclosure of portfolio information to various service providers. For more information on these disclosures please refer to the SAI.
EXECUTION OF REQUESTS. Each fund is open on those days when the New York Stock Exchange is open, typically Monday through Friday. Buy and sell requests are executed at the next NAV to be calculated after your request is received in good order by MEMBERS Mutual Funds. In unusual circumstances, any fund may temporarily suspend the processing of sell requests, or may postpone payment of proceeds for up to three business days or longer, as allowed by federal securities law.
SALES IN ADVANCE OF PURCHASE PAYMENTS. When you place a request to sell shares for which the purchase payment has not yet been collected, the request will be executed in a timely fashion, but the fund will not release the proceeds to you until your purchase payment clears. This may take up to ten business days after the purchase.
FREQUENT TRADING. Excessive or short-term trading in fund shares may harm a fund's performance, and thereby harm other shareholders in the fund, in three respects. First, frequent traders may exploit the fact that a fund has calculated its NAV using closing prices of securities that are no longer current, thereby diluting the value of long-term shareholders' interests in a fund. Second, to meet higher levels of redemptions caused by frequent traders, a fund may be required to maintain a larger percentage of the fund's assets in cash or be forced to liquidate certain holdings at inopportune times, thereby compromising portfolio management strategies. Third, frequent purchases and redemptions by frequent traders will cause a fund to incur greater expenses for buying and selling securities, which are borne by all fund shareholders.
The Trust, on behalf of each of the funds, has adopted policies and procedures with respect to frequent traders. Included in the policies and procedures are the several methods MEMBERS Mutual Funds currently employs to detect and deter frequent traders, including:
- applying exchange limit guidelines,
- charging redemption fees on short-term trades,
- selectively monitoring trade activity, and
- exercising broad authority to take discretionary action against frequent traders and against particular trades, including delaying payment of the proceeds from the redemption of fund shares for up to seven days, and identifying frequent traders and restricting their trading privileges or expelling them from a fund.
In addition to the above, to combat dilution of the value of long-term shareholders' interests in a fund, a fund may employ fair valuation procedures on the securities it holds in its portfolio, as described in "Pricing of Fund Shares" above.
Each of the above methods to protect the interests of investors involves judgments that are inherently subjective, although MEMBERS Mutual Funds and its service providers seek to make judgments that are consistent with long-term investors' interests. Moreover, each of these methods involves some selectivity in their application. While the funds seek to take actions that will detect and deter frequent trading, they cannot assure that such activity can be completely eliminated. For instance, the funds may not be able to identify or reasonably detect or deter frequent trading transactions that are facilitated by financial intermediaries or made through the use of omnibus accounts that transmit purchase, exchange, and redemption orders to the funds on behalf of their customers who are the beneficial owners.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS. For your protection, telephone requests are recorded in order to verify their accuracy. In addition, MEMBERS Mutual Funds will take measures to verify the caller's identity, such as asking for name, account number, Social Security or taxpayer ID number and other relevant information. MEMBERS Mutual Funds is not responsible for any losses that may occur due to unauthorized telephone calls. Also for your protection, redemption transactions are not permitted via telephone on accounts for which names or addresses have been changed within the past 30 days unless the account has been pre-authorized for EFT or wire redemption privileges to a credit union or other financial institution account.
INTERNET TRANSACTIONS. For your protection, you will need your Social Security and account number to establish access to your account on the Internet. You will be asked to assign a unique password and need to use that password on all future visits to verify your identity. Buy and sell prices and valuation of shares procedures are consistent with the policies noted above. MEMBERS Mutual Funds is not responsible for any losses that may occur due to unauthorized access.
HOUSEHOLDING. To reduce shareholder service expenses, MEMBERS Mutual Funds intends to send only one copy of its reports per household regardless of the number of investors at the household or the number of accounts held. However, any investor may obtain additional reports upon request to MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
ACCOUNT STATEMENTS. In general, you will receive account statements every quarter, as well as after every transaction (except for any dividend reinvestment or systematic transactions) that affects your account balance and after any changes of name or address of the registered owner(s). Every year you should also receive, if applicable, a Form 1099 tax information statement, which will be mailed to you by January 31.
SMALL ACCOUNTS. Due to the high fixed cost of maintaining mutual fund accounts, MEMBERS Mutual Funds reserves the right to close any non-retirement accounts (excluding accounts set up with a systematic investment program) that have balances below $1,000. We will mail you a notice asking you to bring the account value up to $1,000 or initiate a systematic investment program. If you do not bring the account value up to $1,000 or initiate a systematic investment program within 60 days, MEMBERS Mutual Funds may sell your shares and mail the proceeds to you at your address of record.
ADDITIONAL INVESTOR SERVICES
SYSTEMATIC INVESTMENT PROGRAM. You may set up regular investments from your credit union or other financial institution account to the fund of your choice. You determine the frequency and amount of your investments, and you may terminate the program at any time. Investments must be made at least once each quarter and may be as little as $25 per transaction ($50 minimum per fund per month). Systematic investments may be transacted twice monthly, monthly, bimonthly, or quarterly. For more information on purchase minimums, see the table on page 7. To take advantage of the systematic investment program, complete the appropriate parts of your account application or work with your financial representative.
PAYROLL DEDUCTION/DIRECT DEPOSIT PROGRAM. If your employer supports a payroll deduction program, you may set up regular investments from your payroll to the fund of your choice. You determine the frequency and amount of your investments, and you may terminate the program at any time. Investments may be as little as $25 per transaction ($50 minimum per fund per month). For more information on purchase minimums, see the table on page 7. To take advantage of the payroll deduction program, complete the MEMBERS Payroll Deduction/Direct Deposit Form or work with your financial representative. A new account application must accompany the form if you are opening a new account.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PROGRAM. If your account balance is at least $5,000, you may make systematic withdrawals from your account. You must fill out the relevant portion of your account application, and the payment schedule. All payees must be on the same payment schedule. You determine the frequency (no less than monthly), day of the month, and amount of your withdrawal, and you may terminate the program at any time. Each systematic withdrawal must be at least $50 per fund. On B share accounts, no CDSC will be charged on systematic withdrawals of no more than 12% of your account's value annually. To take advantage of the systematic withdrawal program on an existing account, contact your financial representative or MEMBERS Mutual Funds at 1-800-877-6089.
SYSTEMATIC EXCHANGE PROGRAM. If your account balance is at least $5,000, you may exchange your shares for the same class of shares of other MEMBERS Mutual Funds under the systematic exchange program. You determine the frequency (no less than monthly), day of the month, and amount of your exchange, and you may terminate the program at any time. Each systematic exchange must be at least $50 per fund. To take advantage of the systematic exchange program, simply complete the appropriate parts of your account application or contact your financial representative.
AUTOMATIC ACCOUNT REBALANCING. If your Class A share account balance is at least $25,000, you may request automatic account rebalancing on a semi-annual or annual basis. You may select a model fund allocation that MEMBERS Mutual Funds has defined, or you may build your own portfolio. To take advantage of the automatic rebalancing program, simply complete the MEMBERS Mutual Funds Automatic Account Rebalancing Form or contact your financial representative. A new account application must accompany the form if you are opening a new account.
RETIREMENT PLANS. Shares of MEMBERS Mutual Funds may be used to fund a variety of retirement plans, including IRAs, SEPs, 401(k) plans, 403(b)(7) arrangements, code section 457 non-qualified deferred compensation plans, and other pension and profit sharing plans (availability may vary in Puerto Rico). Using these plans, you may open an account with either a minimum initial investment or by setting up a systematic investment program. To find out more, call MEMBERS Mutual Funds at 1-800-877-6089.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
The funds generally distribute most or all of their net earnings in the form of dividends. Capital gains, if any, are typically distributed in December. The timing of the dividend payments for the SMALL CAP VALUE FUND and SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND are declared annually and paid annually.
DIVIDEND REINVESTMENTS. Many investors have their dividends reinvested in additional shares of the same fund and class. If you choose this option, or if you do not indicate any choice, your dividends will be reinvested on the dividend payment date. Alternatively, you can choose to have a check for your dividends mailed to you. HOWEVER, IF, FOR ANY REASON, THE CHECK IS NOT DELIVERABLE, YOUR DIVIDENDS WILL BE REINVESTED AND NO INTEREST WILL BE PAID ON AMOUNTS REPRESENTED BY THE CHECK.
TAXABILITY OF DISTRIBUTIONS. Distributions that you receive from a fund are generally taxable. Likewise, distributions in the form of dividends, whether reinvested or taken as cash, also are generally taxable to the recipient. Dividends representing a fund's long-term capital gains distributions are taxable as long-term capital gains. Dividends paid from the net investment income of certain funds may constitute "qualified dividends" taxable at the same rate as long-term capital gains (currently subject to a maximum rate of 15%). Each fund will inform its shareholders of the portion of its dividends (if any) that constitute "qualified dividends." Dividends paid from a fund's net investment income that do not constitute "qualified dividends" and dividends representing a fund's short-term capital gains are generally taxable as ordinary income.
TAXABILITY OF TRANSACTIONS. Any time you sell or exchange shares, it is considered a taxable event to you. Depending on the purchase price and the sale price of the shares you sell or exchange, you may have a capital gain or a loss on the transaction. You are responsible for any tax liabilities generated by your transactions. The Form 1099 that is mailed to you every January details your dividends and taxable transactions and their federal tax category. For more general information on taxes, refer to the SAI. Please consult a tax professional for more complete information and advice specific to your situation as well as for the tax rules specific to your state.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
The investment adviser for MEMBERS Mutual Funds is MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. ("MCA"), 5910 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53705. MCA was established on July 6, 1982. It provides investment advice to the investment portfolios of the CUNA Mutual Group (CUNA Mutual Insurance Society, its "permanent affiliate" CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company and their subsidiaries and affiliates). MCA has over $13.5 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2005. MCA manages all funds using a team approach consisting of a lead portfolio manager, supporting analysts, and the guidance of MCA's other equity and fixed income portfolio managers.
As payment for its services as the investment adviser, MCA receives a management fee of 1.0% for the Small Cap Value Fund and 1.0% for the Small Cap Growth Fund based upon the average daily net assets of each fund which is computed and accrued daily and paid monthly. No management fees were paid to MCA for the previous fiscal year because the funds did not begin operations until December 27, 2006.
MCA currently manages the assets of all of the funds using a "manager of managers" approach under which MCA may manage some or all of the funds' assets and may allocate some or all of the funds' assets among one or more specialist subadvisers. MCA selects subadvisers based on a continuing quantitative and qualitative evaluation of their abilities in managing assets pursuant to a particular investment style. While superior performance is the ultimate goal, short-term performance by itself will not be a significant factor in selecting or terminating subadvisers, and MCA does not expect frequent changes in subadvisers. MCA compensates subadvisers out of its own assets.
MCA monitors the performance of each subadviser to the extent it deems appropriate to achieve a fund's investment objective, reallocates fund assets among its own portfolio management team and individual subadvisers or recommends to the MEMBERS Mutual Funds board that a fund employ or terminate particular subadvisers. MEMBERS Mutual Funds and MCA received an order of the Securities and Exchange Commission that permits the MEMBERS Mutual Funds board to appoint or change subadvisers without shareholder approval. If there is a change in subadvisers, you will receive an "information statement" within 90 days of the change. The statement will provide you with relevant information about the reason for the change and information about any new subadvisers.
A discussion regarding the basis for the approval of the Funds' investment advisory contracts by the Funds' Board of Trustees is contained in the Funds' annual report to shareholders for the period ended October 31, 2006.
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
As of the date of this prospectus, Wellington Management Company, LLP ("Wellington Management"), 75 State Street, Boston, Massachusetts, 02109, is the only subadviser managing the assets of the SMALL CAP VALUE FUND. Wellington Management is a limited liability partnership that traces its origins to 1928. Wellington Management provides investment services to investment companies, employee benefit plans, endowments, foundations, and other institutions and had over $557 billion in assets under management as of October , 2006.
Stephen T. O'Brien, CFA, Senior Vice President and Equity Portfolio Manager of Wellington Management is the portfolio manager of the fund. Mr. O'Brien joined Wellington Management as an investment professional in 1983. He is assisted by Timothy J. McCormack and Shaun F. Pedersen.
Timothy J. McCormack, CFA, Vice President and Equity Portfolio Manager of Wellington Management, has been involved in portfolio management and securities analysis since he joined Wellington Management as an investment professional in 2000.
Shaun F. Pedersen, Vice President and Equity Research Analyst of Wellington Management, has been involved in portfolio management and securities analysis since joined the firm as an investment professional in 2004. Prior to joining Wellington Management, Mr. Pedersen worked as an investment professional with Thomas Weisel Asset Management (2001-2004).
As of the date of this prospectus, Paradigm Asset Management Company, LLC ("Paradigm"), 445 Hamilton Avenue, White Plains, New York, 10601, is the only subadviser managing the assets of the SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND. Paradigm is a Limited Liability Company that was established in 1991. Paradigm provides investment management services to investment companies, employee benefit plans, endowments, foundations, and other institutions and had approximately $886 million in assets under management as of September 30, 2006.
James E. Francis, President and Chief Executive Officer leads the portfolio management team of the fund. Mr. Francis was the co-founder of the firm in 1991 and has overseen the investment process since the firm's inception. The other member's of the team include Jeffrey E. Marcus and Gregory Pai.
Jeffrey E. Marcus, Senior Portfolio Manager, joined Paradigm in 1991 as a portfolio manager. Mr. Marcus has been involved in portfolio management and investment analysis since 1988. Prior to joining Paradigm, Mr. Marcus was an investment analyst for Warner Lambert.
Gregory Pai, Managing Director and Portfolio Manager, joined Paradigm in 1996 as a senior partner. He has been involved in portfolio management since he joined Paradigm. Prior to joining Paradigm, Mr. Pai held senior positions in the media industry and was a management consultant with Price Waterhouse & Company.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The financial highlights are not available because the funds are new. Financial highlights will be included once the funds have audited financial statements covering a period of at least six months.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS CONTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS AND ARE AVAILABLE FREE UPON REQUEST:
Statement of Additional Information (SAI). The SAI contains additional information about the funds. A current SAI has been filed with the SEC and is incorporated herein by reference.
Annual and Semiannual Reports. Once available, the Small Cap Value and Small Cap Growth Funds' annual and semiannual reports will provide additional information about the funds' investments. The annual report contains a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected each fund's performance during the last fiscal year.
Requesting Documents. You may request a copy of any of these reports, make shareholder inquiries, or request further information about the funds by contacting your financial representative or by contacting the funds at: MEMBERS Mutual Funds, P O Box 8390, Boston, MA 02266-8390; telephone: 1-800-877-6089; internet: www.membersfunds.com.
Public Information. You can review and copy information about the funds,
including the SAI, at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington D.C. You may
obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the
SEC at 1-202-551-8090. Reports and other information about the funds also are
available on the EDGAR database on the SEC's internet site at
http://www.sec.gov. You may obtain copies of this information, upon payment of a
duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following E-mail address:
publicinfo@sec.gov, or by writing the Public Reference Section of the SEC, 100 F
Street NE, Room 1580, Washington, D.C. 20549-0102.
PRIVACY NOTICE
MEMBERS Capital Advisors values the trust and confidence you place in us by investing in the MEMBERS Mutual Funds. We have adopted policies and practices designed to protect your personal information. Protecting your privacy is paramount in our dedication to providing you with optimal service, as well as offering you a variety of investment products.
PERSONAL INFORMATION WE COLLECT
We only collect information about you that is necessary to establish and administer your account and communicate information about new opportunities to meet your financial goals, including:
- information we receive from your application or other forms you provide us such as name, address, age, Social Security number, name of your beneficiary(ies), etc.; and information about your transactions with us such as the type of product you buy, the shares you purchase, your method of purchase, etc.
PERSONAL INFORMATION WE MAY DISCLOSE
We may disclose the information we collect about you, as described above and as permitted by law, to affiliates and non-affiliates when necessary to process your transactions or service your account. Some examples of information we may disclose include:
- information to process account transactions you request or authorize;
- information to perform data processing services to maintain your records;
- information to perform services on our behalf, such as to print and distribute mailings or fund reports; and
- information shared in connection with legal proceedings, such as responding to a subpoena.
PROTECTIONS WE PLACE ON YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
We maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards to guard your nonpublic personal information. These practices comply with federal and state regulations and include, among other things:
- restricting access of nonpublic personal information to designated personnel on a "need to know" basis to provide you products or services;
- restricting access of nonpublic personal information to designated personnel responsible for maintaining information security practices; and prohibiting disclosure of nonpublic personal information of former customers to unaffiliated third parties unless required by law.
MEMBERS Capital Advisors' goal is to help our customers achieve their financial aspirations. We appreciate your business and look forward to serving your long-term investment needs. In light of the various ways our products are distributed, you may also receive other privacy notices from your financial representative or the broker/dealer with whom you conduct your business. Please read these notices carefully - protecting personal information should be everyone's business. If you have questions about our privacy practices, please call us at 1-800-877-6089.
(THE PRIVACY NOTICE IS NOT PART OF THE PROSPECTUS.)
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
SMALL CAP VALUE FUND
SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
MEMBERS(R) MUTUAL FUNDS
CUNA Mutual Group
5910 Mineral Point Road
Madison, Wisconsin 53705
THIS IS NOT A PROSPECTUS. THIS STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE SMALL CAP VALUE FUND AND SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND PROSPECTUS FOR THE MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS (THE "TRUST"). THE PROSPECTUS CONCISELY SETS FORTH INFORMATION THAT A PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR SHOULD KNOW BEFORE INVESTING. FOR A COPY OF THE PROSPECTUS, DATED DECEMBER 27, 2006, PLEASE CALL 1-800-877-6089 OR WRITE MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS, P.O. BOX 8390, BOSTON, MA 02266-8390.
December 27, 2006
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE ---- GENERAL INFORMATION...................................................... 1 INVESTMENT PRACTICES..................................................... 1 Lending Portfolio Securities.......................................... 1 Restricted and Illiquid Securities.................................... 1 Options on Securities and Securities Indices.......................... 1 Swap Agreements....................................................... 3 Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts.................... 3 Foreign Transactions.................................................. 5 Lower-Rated Corporate Debt Securities................................. 8 Convertible Securities................................................ 9 Repurchase Agreements................................................. 9 Reverse Repurchase Agreements......................................... 9 U.S. Government Securities............................................ 9 Forward Commitment and When-Issued Securities......................... 10 Real Estate Investment Trusts......................................... 10 Exchange Traded Funds................................................. 10 Initial Public Offferings............................................. 11 Types of Investment Risk.............................................. 11 Higher-Risk Securities and Practices.................................. 12 FUND NAMES............................................................... 14 INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS................................................... 14 TEMPORARY DEFENSIVE POSITIONS............................................ 15 PORTFOLIO TURNOVER....................................................... 15 MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST.................................................. 15 Trustees and Officers................................................. 15 Trustee Compensation.................................................. 18 Committees............................................................ 18 Trustee Holdings...................................................... 18 SALES LOAD WAIVERS FOR CERTAIN AFFILIATED PERSONS OF THE TRUST........... 18 CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF THE TRUST'S SECURITIES.......... 19 PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT..................................................... 19 The Management Agreement.............................................. 19 The Management Agreements with Subadvisers............................ 19 PORTFOLIO MANAGERS....................................................... 20 TRANSFER AGENT........................................................... 21 CUSTODIAN................................................................ 21 DISTRIBUTION............................................................. 21 Principal Underwriter and Distribution of Fund Shares................. 21 Distribution (12b-1) Plans And Agreement.............................. 22 BROKERAGE................................................................ 22 |
PROXY VOTING POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND RECORDS............................ 24 SELECTIVE DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS............................... 24 CODE OF ETHICS........................................................... 25 HOW SECURITIES ARE OFFERED............................................... 25 Shares of Beneficial Interest......................................... 25 Voting Right.......................................................... 25 Limitation of Shareholder Liability................................... 25 Limitation of Trustee and Officer Liability........................... 26 Limitation of Inter-series Liability.................................. 26 NET ASSET VALUE OF SHARES................................................ 26 Portfolio Valuation................................................... 26 DIVIDENDS, DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES....................................... 27 Federal Tax Status of the Funds....................................... 27 Shareholder Taxation.................................................. 28 MORE ABOUT PURCHASING AND SELLING SHARES................................. 30 Offering Price........................................................ 30 Initial Sales Charge on Class A Shares................................ 31 Deferred Sales Charge on Class B Shares............................... 32 Special Redemptions................................................... 32 ADDITIONAL INVESTOR SERVICES............................................. 33 Systematic Investment Program......................................... 33 Systematic Withdrawal Program......................................... 33 Exchange Privilege and Systematic Exchange Program.................... 33 Reinstatement or Reinvestment Privilege............................... 33 INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM............................ 34 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS..................................................... 34 APPENDIX A - SUMMARY OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES............. 35 |
GENERAL INFORMATION
The MEMBERS Mutual Funds (the "Trust") is a diversified open-end investment company consisting of separate investment portfolios or funds (each, a "fund") each of which has a different investment objective(s) and policies. Each fund is a diversified, open-end management investment company, commonly known as a mutual fund.
The Trust was formed as a business trust under the laws of the State of Delaware on May 21, 1997. Currently under Delaware law, business trusts organized in Delaware are now referred to as "statutory trusts." As a Delaware statutory trust, the Trust's operations are governed by its Declaration of Trust dated May 16, 1997 (the "Declaration") and Certificate of Trust, dated May 16, 1997 (the "Certificate"). The Certificate is on file with the Office of the Secretary of State in Delaware. Each shareholder agrees to be bound by the Declaration, as amended from time to time, upon such shareholder's initial purchase of shares of beneficial interest in any one of the funds.
INVESTMENT PRACTICES
The MEMBERS Mutual Funds' SMALL CAP VALUE FUND and SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND (each a "fund" and collectively the "funds") prospectus describes the investment objectives and policies of each of the funds. The following information is provided for those investors wishing to have more comprehensive information than that contained in the prospectus.
LENDING PORTFOLIO SECURITIES
Each fund may lend portfolio securities. Such loans will be made only in accordance with guidelines established by the Trustees and on the request of broker-dealers or institutional investors deemed qualified, and only when the borrower agrees to maintain cash or other liquid assets as collateral with the fund equal at all times to at least 102% of the value of the securities. The fund will continue to receive interest or dividends on the securities loaned and will, at the same time, earn an agreed-upon amount of interest on the collateral which will be invested in readily marketable obligations of high quality. The fund will retain the right to call the loaned securities and intends to call loaned voting securities if important shareholder meetings are imminent. Such security loans will not be made if, as a result, the aggregate of such loans exceeds 33 1/3% of the value of the fund's assets. The fund may terminate such loans at any time. The primary risk involved in lending securities is that the borrower will fail financially and not return the loaned securities at a time when the collateral is sufficient to replace the full amount of the loaned securities. To mitigate this risk, loans will be made only to firms deemed by the funds' investment adviser, MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., to be creditworthy and will not be made unless, in MEMBERS Capital Advisors' judgment, the consideration to be earned from such loans would justify the risk.
When a fund lends portfolio securities to a borrower, payments in lieu of dividends made by the borrower to the fund will not constitute "qualified dividends" taxable at the same rate as long-term capital gains, even if the actual dividends would have constituted qualified dividends had the fund held the securities. See "Dividends, Distributions and Taxes."
RESTRICTED AND ILLIQUID SECURITIES
Each fund may invest in illiquid securities up to the percentage limits described on page 12 in the Higher-Risk Securities and Practices table below. MEMBERS Capital Advisors or the fund's subadviser (collectively referred to herein as the "Investment Adviser") is responsible for determining the value and liquidity of investments held by each fund. Thus, it is up to the Investment Adviser to determine if any given security is illiquid. Investments may be illiquid because of the absence of a trading market, making it difficult to value them or dispose of them promptly at an acceptable price.
Illiquid investments often include repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days, currency swaps, time deposits with a notice or demand period of more than seven days, certain over-the-counter option contracts (and assets used to cover such options), participation interests in loans, and restricted securities. A restricted security is one that has a contractual restriction on resale or cannot be resold publicly until it is registered under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act").
Each fund may invest in restricted securities. Restricted securities are not, however, considered illiquid if they are eligible for sale to qualified institutional purchasers in reliance upon Rule 144A under the 1933 Act and are determined to be liquid by the Trust's board of trustees or by the Investment Adviser or subadviser under board-approved procedures. Such guidelines would take into account trading activity for such securities and the availability of reliable pricing information, among other factors. To the extent that qualified institutional buyers become for a time uninterested in purchasing these restricted securities, a fund's holdings of those securities may become illiquid.
OPTIONS ON SECURITIES AND SECURITIES INDICES
Writing Options. Each fund, may write (sell) covered call and put options on any securities in which it may invest. A call option written by a fund obligates such fund to sell specified securities to the holder of the option at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. All call options written by a fund are covered, which means that such fund will own the securities subject to the option so long as the option is outstanding. A fund's purpose in writing covered call options is to realize greater income than would be realized on portfolio securities transactions alone. However, a fund may forgo the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market price of the underlying security.
A put option written by a fund would obligate such fund to purchase specified securities from the option holder at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. All put options written by a fund would be covered, which means that such fund would have
deposited with its custodian cash or liquid high grade debt securities with a value at least equal to the exercise price of the put option. The purpose of writing such options is to generate additional income for the fund. However, in return for the option premium, a fund accepts the risk that it will be required to purchase the underlying securities at a price in excess of the securities' market value at the time of purchase.
In addition, in the investment adviser's discretion, a written call option or put option may be covered in other ways such as maintaining cash or liquid, high grade debt securities (either of which may be denominated in any currency) in a segregated account with its custodian, by entering into an offsetting forward contract and/or by purchasing an offsetting option which, by virtue of its exercise price or otherwise, reduces a fund's net exposure on its written option position.
Each fund, may also write and sell covered call and put options on any securities index composed of securities in which it may invest. Options on securities indices are similar to options on securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash payments and does not involve the actual purchase or sale of securities. In addition, securities index options are designed to reflect price fluctuations in a group of securities or segment of the securities market rather than price fluctuations in a single security.
A fund may cover call options on a securities index by owning securities whose price changes are expected to be similar to those of the underlying index, or by having an absolute and immediate right to acquire such securities without additional cash consideration (or for additional cash consideration held in a segregated account by its custodian) upon conversion or exchange of other securities in its portfolio. A fund may cover call and put options on a securities index by maintaining cash or liquid high-grade debt securities with a value equal to the exercise price in a segregated account with its custodian.
A fund may terminate its obligations under an exchange-traded call or put option by purchasing an option identical to the one it has written. Obligations under over-the-counter options may be terminated only by entering into an offsetting transaction with the counterparty to such option. Such purchases are referred to as "closing purchase" transactions.
Purchasing Options. Each fund, may purchase put and call options on any securities in which it may invest or options on any securities index based on securities in which it may invest. A fund would also be able to enter into closing sale transactions in order to realize gains or minimize losses on options it had purchased.
A fund would normally purchase call options in anticipation of an increase in the market value of securities of the type in which it may invest. The purchase of a call option would entitle a fund, in return for the premium paid, to purchase specified securities at a specified price during the option period. A fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of such securities exceeded the sum of the exercise price, the premium paid and transaction costs; otherwise such a fund would realize a loss on the purchase of the call option.
A fund would normally purchase put options in anticipation of a decline in the market value of securities in its portfolio ("protective puts") or in securities in which it may invest. The purchase of a put option would entitle a fund, in exchange for the premium paid, to sell specified securities at a specified price during the option period. The purchase of protective puts is designed to offset or hedge against a decline in the market value of a fund's securities. Put options may also be purchased by a fund for the purpose of affirmatively benefiting from a decline in the price of securities which it does not own. A fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying securities decreased below the exercise price sufficiently to cover the premium and transaction costs; otherwise such a fund would realize no gain or loss on the purchase of the put option. Gains and losses on the purchase of protective put options would tend to be offset by countervailing changes in the value of the underlying portfolio securities.
A fund would purchase put and call options on securities indices for the same purposes as it would purchase options on individual securities.
Risks Associated with Options Transactions. There is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on an options exchange will exist for any particular exchange-traded option or at any particular time. If a fund is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to covered options it has written, the fund will not be able to sell the underlying securities or dispose of assets held in a segregated account until the options expire or are exercised. Similarly, if a fund is unable to effect a closing sale transaction with respect to options it has purchased, it will have to exercise the options in order to realize any profit and will incur transaction costs upon the purchase or sale of underlying securities.
Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange include the
following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest in certain options;
(ii) restrictions may be imposed by an exchange on opening transactions or
closing transactions or both; (iii) trading halts, suspensions or other
restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular classes or series of
options; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal
operations on an exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or the Options
Clearing Corporation may not at all times be adequate to handle current trading
volume; or (vi) one or more exchanges could, for economic or other reasons,
decide or be compelled at some future date to discontinue the trading of options
(or a particular class or series of options), in which event the secondary
market on that exchange (or in that class or series of options) would cease to
exist, although outstanding options on that exchange that had been issued by the
Options Clearing Corporation as a result of trades on that exchange would
continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.
Each fund may purchase and sell both options that are traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges and options traded over-the-counter with broker-dealers who make markets in these options. The ability to terminate over-the-counter options is more limited than with exchange-traded options and may involve the risk that broker-dealers participating in such transactions will not fulfill their obligations. Until such time as the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") changes its position, the funds will treat purchased over-the counter options and all assets used to cover written over-the-counter options as illiquid securities, except that with respect to options written with primary dealers in U.S. Government securities pursuant to an agreement requiring a closing purchase transaction at a formula price, the amount of illiquid securities may be calculated with reference to the formula.
Transactions by a fund in options on securities and stock indices will be subject to limitations established by each of the exchanges, boards of trade or other trading facilities governing the maximum number of options in each class which may be written or purchased by a single investor or group of investors acting in concert. Thus, the number of options which a fund may write or purchase may be affected by options written or purchased by other investment advisory clients of the Investment Adviser. An exchange, board of trade or other trading facility may order the liquidations of positions found to be in excess of these limits, and it may impose certain other sanctions.
The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The successful use of protective puts for hedging purposes depends in part on the Investment Adviser's ability to predict future price fluctuations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities markets.
SWAP AGREEMENTS
Each fund may enter into interest rate, credit default, index and currency exchange rate swap agreements in attempts to obtain a particular desired return at a lower cost to the fund than if the fund had invested directly in an instrument that yielded the desired return. Swap agreements are contracts entered into by institutional investors for periods ranging from a few weeks to more than one year. In a standard "swap" transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments. The gross returns to be exchanged or "swapped" between the parties are calculated with respect to a "notional amount," i.e., the return on or increase in value of a particular dollar amount invested at a particular interest rate, in a particular foreign currency, or in a "basket" of securities representing a particular index. The "notional amount" of the swap agreement is only a fictive basis on which to calculate the obligations the parties to a swap agreement have agreed to exchange. A fund's obligations (or rights) under a swap agreement are equal only to the amount to be paid or received under the agreement based on the relative values of the positions held by each party (the "net amount"). A fund's obligations under a swap agreement are accrued daily (offset against any amounts owing to the fund) and any accrued but unpaid net amounts owed to a swap counterparty are covered by the maintenance of a segregated assets.
Whether a fund's use of swap agreements enhances its total return will depend on the Investment Adviser's ability to correctly predict whether certain types of investments are likely to produce greater returns than other investments. Certain categories of swap agreements often have terms of greater than seven days and may be considered illiquid. Moreover, a fund bears the risk of loss of the amount expected to be received under a swap agreement in the event of the default or bankruptcy of a swap agreement counterparty. The Investment Adviser will cause a fund to enter into swap agreements only with counterparties that are eligible as repurchase agreement counterparties under the fund's repurchase agreement guidelines.
Certain restrictions imposed on the funds by the Internal Revenue Code may limit the funds' ability to use swap agreements. The swaps market is a relatively new market and is largely unregulated. It is possible that developments in the swaps market, including potential government regulation, could adversely affect a fund's ability to terminate existing swap agreements or to realize amounts to be received under such agreements.
FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS ON FUTURES CONTRACTS
Each fund may purchase and sell futures contracts and purchase and write options on futures contracts. These funds may purchase and sell futures contracts based on various securities (such as U.S. Government securities), securities indices, foreign currencies and other financial instruments and indices. A fund will engage in futures or related options transactions only for bona fide hedging purposes as defined below or for purposes of seeking to increase total returns to the extent permitted by regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"). All futures contracts entered into by a fund are traded on U.S. exchanges or boards of trade that are licensed and regulated by the CFTC or on foreign exchanges.
Futures Contracts. A futures contract may generally be described as an agreement between two parties to buy and sell particular financial instruments for an agreed price during a designated month (or to deliver the final cash settlement price, in the case of a contract relating to an index or otherwise not calling for physical delivery at the end of trading in the contract).
When interest rates are rising or securities prices are falling, a fund can seek through the sale of futures contracts to offset a decline in the value of its current portfolio securities. When rates are falling or prices are rising, a fund, through the purchase of futures contracts, can attempt to secure better rates or prices than might later be available in the market when it effects anticipated purchases. Similarly, a fund can sell futures contracts on a specified currency to protect against a decline in the value of such currency and its portfolio securities which are denominated in such currency. These funds can purchase futures contracts on foreign currency to fix the price in U.S. dollars of a security denominated in such currency that such fund has acquired or expects to acquire.
Positions taken in the futures markets are not normally held to maturity, but are instead liquidated through offsetting transactions which may result in a profit or a loss. While a fund's futures contracts on securities or currency will usually be liquidated in this manner, it may instead make or take delivery of the underlying securities or currency whenever it appears economically advantageous for the fund to do so. A clearing corporation (associated with the exchange on which futures on a security or currency are traded) guarantees that, if still open, the sale or purchase will be performed on the settlement date.
Hedging Strategies. Hedging by use of futures contracts seeks to establish more certainty of (than would otherwise be possible) the effective price, rate of return or currency exchange rate on securities that a fund owns or proposes to acquire. A fund may, for example, take a "short" position in the futures market by selling futures contracts in order to hedge against an anticipated rise in interest rates or a decline in market
prices or foreign currency rates that would adversely affect the U.S. dollar value of the fund's portfolio securities. Such futures contracts may include contracts for the future delivery of securities held by the fund or securities with characteristics similar to those of a fund's portfolio securities. Similarly, a fund may sell futures contracts on a currency in which its portfolio securities are denominated or in one currency to hedge against fluctuations in the value of securities denominated in a different currency if there is an established historical pattern of correlation between the two currencies.
If, in the opinion of the Investment Adviser, there is a sufficient degree of correlation between price trends for a fund's portfolio securities and futures contracts based on other financial instruments, securities indices or other indices, the fund may also enter into such futures contracts as part of its hedging strategy. Although under some circumstances prices of securities in a fund's portfolio may be more or less volatile than prices of such futures contracts, the Investment Adviser will attempt to estimate the extent of this difference in volatility based on historical patterns and to compensate for it by having the fund enter into a greater or lesser number of futures contracts or by attempting to achieve only a partial hedge against price changes affecting the fund's securities portfolio. When hedging of this character is successful, any depreciation in the value of portfolio securities will substantially be offset by appreciation in the value of the futures position. On the other hand, any unanticipated appreciation in the value of the fund's portfolio securities would be substantially offset by a decline in the value of the futures position.
On other occasions, a fund may take a "long" position by purchasing such futures contracts. This would be done, for example, when a fund anticipates the subsequent purchase of particular securities when it has the necessary cash, but expects the prices or currency exchange rates then available in the applicable market to be less favorable than prices or rates that are currently available.
Options on Futures Contracts. The acquisition of put and call options on futures contracts will give a fund the right (but not the obligation), for a specified price, to sell or to purchase, respectively, the underlying futures contract at any time during the option period. As the purchaser of an option on a futures contract, a fund obtains the benefit of the futures position if prices move in a favorable direction but limits its risk of loss in the event of an unfavorable price movement to the loss of the premium and transaction costs.
The writing of a call option on a futures contract generates a premium which may partially offset a decline in the value of a fund's assets. By writing a call option, a fund becomes obligated, in exchange for the premium, to sell a futures contract which may have a value higher then the exercise price. Conversely, the writing of a put option on a futures contract generates a premium, which may partially offset an increase in the price of securities that the fund intends to purchase. However, a fund becomes obligated to purchase a futures contract, which may have a value lower than the exercise price. Thus, the loss incurred by the fund in writing options on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received. A fund will incur transaction costs in connection with the writing of options on futures.
The holder or writer of an option on a futures contract may terminate its position by selling or purchasing an offsetting option on the same series. There is no guarantee that such closing transactions can be effected. A fund's ability to establish and close out positions on such options will be subject to the development and maintenance of a liquid market.
Other Considerations. Where permitted, a fund will engage in futures transactions and in related options transactions for hedging purposes or to seek to increase total return. A fund will determine that the price fluctuations in the futures contracts and options on futures used for hedging purposes are substantially related to price fluctuations in securities held by the fund or which it expects to purchase. Except as stated below, each fund's futures transactions will be entered into for traditional hedging purposes, i.e., futures contracts will be used to protect against a decline in the price of securities (or the currency in which they are denominated) that the fund owns, or futures contracts will be purchased to protect the fund against an increase in the price of securities (or the currency in which they are denominated) it intends to purchase. As evidence of this hedging intent, each fund expects that on most of the occasions on which it takes a long futures or option position (involving the purchase of a futures contract), the fund will have purchased, or will be in the process of purchasing equivalent amounts of related securities (or assets denominated in the related currency) in the cash market at the time when the futures or option position is closed out. However, in particular cases, when it is economically advantageous for a fund to do so, a long futures position may be terminated or an option may expire without the corresponding purchase of securities or other assets.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the "CFTC"), a federal agency, regulates trading activity in futures contracts and related options contracts pursuant to the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended (the "CEA"). The CFTC requires the registration of a Commodity Pool Operator (a "CPO"), which is defined as any person engaged in a business which is of the nature of an investment trust, syndicate or a similar form of enterprise, and who, in connection therewith, solicits, accepts or receives from others funds, securities or property for the purpose of trading in a commodity for future delivery on or subject to the rules of any contract market. The CFTC has adopted Rule 4.5, which provides an exclusion from the definition of commodity pool operator for any registered investment company which files a notice of eligibility. The funds which may invest in futures transactions and related options transactions have filed a notice of eligibility claiming exclusion from the status of CPO and, therefore, are not subject to registration or regulation as a CPO under the CEA.
As permitted, each fund will engage in transactions in futures contracts and in related options transactions only to the extent such transactions are consistent with the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") for maintaining its qualification as a regulated investment company for federal income tax purposes (see "Dividends, Distributions, and Taxes" section later in this document).
Transactions in futures contracts and options on futures involve brokerage costs, require margin deposits and, in the case of contracts and options obligating a fund to purchase securities or currencies, require the fund to segregate with its custodian cash or liquid securities in an amount equal to the underlying value of such contracts and options.
While transactions in futures contracts and options on futures may reduce certain risks, such transactions themselves entail certain other risks. Thus, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in a poorer overall performance for a fund
than if it had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. In the event of an imperfect correlation between a futures position and portfolio position which is intended to be protected, the desired protection may not be obtained and a fund may be exposed to risk of loss.
Perfect correlation between a fund's futures positions and portfolio positions may be difficult to achieve because no futures contracts based on individual equity securities are currently available. The only futures contracts available to hedge a fund's portfolio are various futures on U.S. Government securities, securities indices and foreign currencies. In addition, it is not possible for a fund to hedge fully or perfectly against currency fluctuations affecting the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies because the value of such securities is likely to fluctuate as a result of independent factors not related to currency fluctuations.
FOREIGN TRANSACTIONS
Foreign Securities. Each fund may invest in foreign securities (as defined below).The percentage limitations on each fund's investment in foreign securities are set forth in the prospectus and in the Higher-Risk Securities and Practices Table found later in this document.
Foreign securities refers to securities that are: (1) issued by companies organized outside the U.S. or whose principal operations are outside the U.S. ("foreign issuers"), (2) issued by foreign governments or their agencies or instrumentalities (also "foreign issuers"), (3) principally traded outside of the U.S., or (4) quoted or denominated in a foreign currency ("non-dollar securities"). Foreign securities include American Depository Receipts ("ADRs"), European Depository Receipts ("EDRs"), Global Depository Receipts ("GDRs"), and foreign money market securities. However, any dollar denominated security that is part of the Merrill Lynch U.S. Domestic Market Index is not considered a foreign security.
Foreign securities may offer potential benefits that are not available from investments exclusively in securities of domestic issuers or dollar denominated securities. Such benefits may include the opportunity to invest in foreign issuers that appear to offer better opportunity for long-term capital appreciation or current earnings than investments in domestic issuers, the opportunity to invest in foreign countries with economic policies or business cycles different from those of the U.S. and the opportunity to invest in foreign securities markets that do not necessarily move in a manner parallel to U.S. markets.
Investing in foreign securities involves significant risks that are not typically associated with investing in U.S. dollar denominated securities or in securities of domestic issuers. Such investments may be affected by changes in currency exchange rates, changes in foreign or U.S. laws or restrictions applicable to such investments and in exchange control regulations (e.g., currency blockage). Some foreign stock markets may have substantially less volume than, for example, the New York Stock Exchange and securities of some foreign issuers may be less liquid than securities of comparable domestic issuers. Commissions and dealer mark-ups on transactions in foreign investments may be higher than for similar transactions in the U.S. In addition, clearance and settlement procedures may be different in foreign countries and, in certain markets, on certain occasions, such procedures have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions, thus making it difficult to conduct such transactions.
Foreign issuers are not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to domestic companies. There may be less publicly available information about a foreign issuer than about a domestic one. In addition, there is generally less government regulation of stock exchanges, brokers, and listed and unlisted issuers in foreign countries than in the U.S. Furthermore, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of expropriation or confiscatory taxation, imposition of withholding taxes on dividend or interest payments, limitations on the removal of funds or other assets of the fund making the investment, or political or social instability or diplomatic developments which could affect investments in those countries.
Investments in short-term debt obligations issued either by foreign issuers or foreign financial institutions or by foreign branches of U.S. financial institutions (collectively, "foreign money market securities") present many of the same risks as other foreign investments. In addition, foreign money market securities present interest rate risks similar to those attendant to an investment in domestic money market securities.
Investments in ADRs, EDRs and GDRs. Many securities of foreign issuers are represented by ADRs, EDRs and GDRs. Each fund may invest in ADRs, GDRs and EDRs.
ADRs are receipts typically issued by a U.S. financial institution or trust company which represent the right to receive securities of foreign issuers deposited in a domestic bank or a foreign correspondent bank. Prices of ADRs are quoted in U.S. dollars, and ADRs are traded in the U.S. on exchanges or over-the-counter and are sponsored and issued by domestic banks. In general, there is a large, liquid market in the U.S. for ADRs quoted on a national securities exchange or the NASD's national market system. The information available for ADRs is subject to the accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards of the domestic market or exchange on which they are traded, which standards are more uniform and more exacting than those to which many foreign issuers may be subject.
EDRs and GDRs are receipts evidencing an arrangement with a non-U.S. bank similar to that for ADRs and are designed for use in non-U.S. securities markets. EDRs are typically issued in bearer form and are designed for trading in the European markets. GDRs, issued either in bearer or registered form, are designed for trading on a global basis. EDRs and GDRs are not necessarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security.
Depository receipts do not eliminate all the risk inherent in investing in the securities of foreign issuers. To the extent that a fund acquires depository receipts through banks which do not have a contractual relationship with the foreign issuer of the security underlying the receipt to issue and service such depository receipts, there may be an increased possibility that the fund would not become aware of and be able to respond to corporate actions such as stock splits or rights offerings involving the foreign issuer in a timely manner. The market value of depository
receipts is dependent upon the market value of the underlying securities and fluctuations in the relative value of the currencies in which the receipts and the underlying are quoted. In addition, the lack of information may result in inefficiencies in the valuation of such instruments. However, by investing in depository receipts rather than directly in the stock of foreign issuers, a fund will avoid currency risks during the settlement period for either purchases or sales.
Investments in Emerging Markets. Each fund, may invest in securities of issuers located in countries with emerging economies and/or securities markets. These countries are located in the Asia Pacific region, Eastern Europe, Central and South America and Africa. Political and economic structures in many of these countries may be undergoing significant evolution and rapid development, and such countries may lack the social, political and economic stability characteristic of more developed countries. Certain of these countries may have in the past failed to recognize private property rights and have at times nationalized or expropriated the assets of private companies. As a result, the risks of foreign investment generally, including the risks of nationalization or expropriation of assets, may be heightened. In addition, unanticipated political or social developments may affect the values of a fund's investments in those countries and the availability to the fund of additional investments in those countries.
The small size and inexperience of the securities markets in certain of these countries and the limited volume of trading in securities in those countries may also make investments in such countries illiquid and more volatile than investments in Japan or most Western European countries, and these funds may be required to establish special custody or other arrangements before making certain investments in those countries. There may be little financial or accounting information available with respect to issuers located in certain of such countries, and it may be difficult as a result to assess the value or prospects of an investment in such issuers.
A fund's purchase or sale of portfolio securities in certain emerging markets may be constrained by limitations as to daily changes in the prices of listed securities, periodic trading or settlement volume and/or limitations on aggregate holdings of foreign investors. Such limitations may be computed based on aggregate trading volume by or holdings of a fund, MEMBERS Capital Advisors and its affiliates, a subadviser and its affiliates, and each such person's respective clients and other service providers. A fund may not be able to sell securities in circumstances where price, trading or settlement volume limitations have been reached.
Foreign investment in certain emerging securities markets is restricted or controlled to varying degrees that may limit investment in such countries or increase the administrative cost of such investments. For example, certain Asian countries require government approval prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons to a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a specific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including price) than securities of such company available for purchase by nationals. In addition, certain countries may restrict or prohibit investment opportunities in issuers or industries important to national interests. Such restrictions may affect the market price, liquidity and rights of securities that may be purchased by a fund.
Settlement procedures in emerging markets are frequently less developed and reliable than those in the U.S. and may involve a fund's delivery of securities before receipt of payment for their sale. In addition, significant delays are common in certain markets in registering the transfer of securities. Settlement or registration problems may make it more difficult for a fund to value its portfolio assets and could cause a fund to miss attractive investment opportunities, to have its assets uninvested or to incur losses due to the failure of a counterparty to pay for securities that the fund has delivered or due to the fund's inability to complete its contractual obligations.
Currently, there is no market or only a limited market for many management techniques and instruments with respect to the currencies and securities markets of emerging market countries. Consequently, there can be no assurance that suitable instruments for hedging currency and market related risks will be available at the times when the Investment Adviser of the fund wishes to use them.
Foreign Currency Transactions. Because investment in foreign issuers will usually involve currencies of foreign countries, and because each fund, may have currency exposure independent of their securities positions, the value of the assets of these funds, as measured in U.S. dollars, will be affected by changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
An issuer of securities purchased by a fund may be domiciled in a country other than the country in whose currency the instrument is denominated or quoted. Each fund may also invest in securities quoted or denominated in the European Currency Unit ("ECU"), which is a "basket" consisting of specified amounts of the currencies of certain of the twelve member states of the European Economic Community. The specific amounts of currencies comprising the ECU may be adjusted by the Council of Ministers of the European Economic Community from time to time to reflect changes in relative values of the underlying currencies. In addition, these two funds may invest in securities quoted or denominated in other currency "baskets."
Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time causing, along with other factors, a fund's NAV to fluctuate as well. They generally are determined by the forces of supply and demand in the foreign exchange markets and the relative merits of investments in different countries, actual or anticipated changes in interest rates and other complex factors, as seen from an international perspective. Currency exchange rates also can be affected unpredictably by intervention by U.S. or foreign governments or central banks, or the failure to intervene, or by currency controls or political developments in the U.S. or abroad. The market in forward foreign currency exchange contracts, currency swaps and other privately negotiated currency instruments offers less protection against defaults by the other party to such instruments than is available for currency instruments traded on an exchange. To the extent that a substantial portion of a fund's total assets, adjusted to reflect the fund's net position after giving effect to currency transactions, is denominated or quoted in the currencies of foreign countries, the fund will be more susceptible to the risk of adverse economic and political developments within those countries.
In addition to investing in securities denominated or quoted in a foreign currency, certain of the funds may engage in a variety of foreign currency management techniques. These funds may hold foreign currency received in connection with investments in foreign securities when, in
the judgment of the fund's Investment Adviser, it would be beneficial to convert such currency into U.S. dollars at a later date, based on anticipated changes in the relevant exchange rate. The funds will incur costs in connection with conversions between various currencies.
Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts. Each fund, may each purchase or sell forward foreign currency exchange contracts for defensive or hedging purposes when the fund's Investment Adviser anticipates that the foreign currency will appreciate or depreciate in value, but securities denominated or quoted in that currency do not present attractive investment opportunities and are not held in the fund's portfolio. In addition, these funds may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts in order to protect against anticipated changes in future foreign currency exchange rates and may engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in a currency different from that in which the hedged security is denominated or quoted if the fund's Investment Adviser determines that there is a pattern of correlation between the two currencies.
These funds may enter into contracts to purchase foreign currencies to protect against an anticipated rise in the U.S. dollar price of securities a fund intends to purchase. Each such fund may enter into contracts to sell foreign currencies to protect against the decline in value of its foreign currency denominated or quoted portfolio securities, or a decline in the value of anticipated dividends from such securities, due to a decline in the value of foreign currencies against the U.S. dollar. Contracts to sell foreign currency could limit any potential gain which might be realized by a fund if the value of the hedged currency increased.
If a fund enters into a forward foreign currency exchange contract to buy foreign currency for any purpose, the fund will be required to place cash or liquid high grade debt securities in a segregated account with the fund's custodian in an amount equal to the value of the fund's total assets committed to the consummation of the forward contract. If the value of the securities placed in the segregated account declines, additional cash or securities will be placed in the segregated account so that the value of the account will equal the amount of the fund's commitment with respect to the contract.
Forward contracts are subject to the risk that the counterparty to such contract will default on its obligations. Since a forward foreign currency exchange contract is not guaranteed by an exchange or clearinghouse, a default on the contract would deprive a fund of unrealized profits, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or force the fund to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price. A fund will not enter into such transactions unless the credit quality of the unsecured senior debt or the claims-paying ability of the counterparty is considered to be investment grade by the fund's Investment Adviser.
Options on Foreign Currencies. Each fund may also purchase and sell (write) put and call options on foreign currencies for the purpose of protecting against declines in the U.S. dollar value of foreign portfolio securities and anticipated dividends on such securities and against increases in the U.S. dollar cost of foreign securities to be acquired. These funds may use options on currency to cross-hedge, which involves writing or purchasing options on one currency to hedge against changes in exchange rates for a different currency, if there is a pattern of correlation between the two currencies. As with other kinds of option transactions, however, the writing of an option on foreign currency will constitute only a partial hedge, up to the amount of the premium received. A fund could be required to purchase or sell foreign currencies at disadvantageous exchange rates, thereby incurring losses. The purchase of an option on foreign currency may constitute an effective hedge against exchange rate fluctuations; however, in the event of exchange rate movements adverse to a fund's position, the fund may forfeit the entire amount of the premium plus related transaction costs. In addition, these funds may purchase call or put options on currency to seek to increase total return when the fund's Investment Adviser anticipates that the currency will appreciate or depreciate in value, but the securities quoted or denominated in that currency do not present attractive investment opportunities and are not held in the fund's portfolio. When purchased or sold to increase total return, options on currencies are considered speculative. Options on foreign currencies to be written or purchased by these funds will be traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges or over-the-counter. See "Risks Associated with Options Transactions" section earlier in this document for a discussion of the liquidity risks associated with options transactions.
Special Risks Associated With Options on Currency. An exchange traded options position may be closed out only on an options exchange which provides a secondary market for an option of the same series. Although a fund will generally purchase or write 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. For some options no secondary market on an exchange may exist. In such event, it might not be possible to effect closing transactions in particular options, with the result that a fund would have to exercise its options in order to realize any profit and would incur transaction costs upon the sale of underlying securities pursuant to the exercise of put options. If a fund as a covered call option writer is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction in a secondary market, it will not be able to see the underlying currency (or security quoted or denominated in that currency) until the option expires or it delivers the underlying currency upon exercise.
There is no assurance that higher than anticipated trading activity or other unforeseen events might not, at times, render certain of the facilities of the Options Clearing Corporation inadequate, and thereby result in the institution by an exchange of special procedures which may interfere with the timely execution of customers' orders.
Each fund may purchase and write over-the-counter options to the extent consistent with its limitation on investments in restricted securities. See the "Higher-Risk Securities and Practices" table later in this document for each fund's limitations on investments in restricted securities. Trading in over-the-counter options is subject to the risk that the other party will be unable or unwilling to close-out options purchased or written by the fund.
The amount of the premiums which a fund may pay or receive may be adversely affected as new or existing institutions, including other investment companies, engage in or increase their option purchasing and writing activities.
Interest Rate Swaps, Credit Default Swaps, Currency Swaps and Interest Rate Caps, Floors and Collars. Each fund may each enter into interest rate, credit default and currency swaps for hedging purposes and to seek to increase total return. Currency swaps involve the exchange by the funds with another party of their respective rights to make or receive payments in specified currencies. The purchase of an interest rate cap entitles the purchaser to receive from the seller of the cap payments of interest on a notional amount equal to the amount by which a specified index exceeds a stated interest rate. The purchase of an interest rate floor entitles the purchaser to receive from the seller of the floor payments of interest on a notional amount equal to the amount by which a specified index falls below a stated interest rate. An interest rate collar is the combination of a cap and a floor that preserves a certain return within a stated range of interest rates. Since interest rate swaps, currency swaps and interest rate caps, floors and collars are individually negotiated, these two funds expect to achieve an acceptable degree of correlation between their portfolio investments and their interest rate or currency swap positions entered into for hedging purposes.
Interest rate swaps do not involve the delivery of securities, or underlying assets or principal. Accordingly, the risk of loss with respect to interest rate swaps is limited to the net amount of interest payments that the fund is contractually obligated to make. If the other party to an interest rate swap defaults, the fund's risk of loss consists of the net amount of interest payments that the fund is contractually entitled to receive. In contrast, currency swaps usually involve the delivery of the entire principal value of one designated currency in exchange for the other designated currency. Therefore, the entire principal value of a currency swap is subject to the risk that the other party to the swap will default on its contractual delivery obligations. The Trust maintains in a segregated account with its custodian, cash or liquid securities equal to the net amount, if any, of the excess of each fund's obligations over its entitlements with respect to swap transactions. Neither fund enters into swap transactions unless the unsecured commercial paper, senior debt or claims paying ability of the other party is considered investment grade by such fund's Investment Adviser.
The use of interest rate and currency swaps (including caps, floors and collars) is a highly specialized activity which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with traditional portfolio securities activities. If the fund's Investment Adviser is incorrect in its forecasts of market values, interest rates and currency exchange rates, the investment performance of each fund, would be less favorable than it would have been if this investment technique were not used.
In as much as swaps are entered into for good faith hedging purposes or are offset by a segregated account as described below, neither fund's Investment Adviser believe that swaps constitute senior securities as defined in the Act and, accordingly, will not treat swaps as being subject to such fund's borrowing restrictions. An amount of cash or liquid securities having an aggregate net asset value at least equal to the entire amount of the payment stream payable by the fund will be maintained in a segregated account by the fund's custodian. A fund will not enter into any interest rate swap (including caps, floors and collars) or currency swap unless the credit quality of the unsecured senior debt or the claim paying ability of the other party thereto is considered to be investment grade by the fund's Investment Adviser. If there is a default by the other party to such a transaction, the fund will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreement, related to the transaction. The swap market has grown substantially in recent years with a large number of banks and investment banking firms acting both as principals and as agents utilizing standardized swap documentation. As a result, the swap market has become relatively liquid comparison with the markets for other similar instruments which are traded in the interbank market. Nevertheless, the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission takes the position that currency swaps are illiquid investments subject to these funds' 15% limitation on such investments.
LOWER-RATED CORPORATE DEBT SECURITIES
Each fund may make certain investments including corporate debt obligations that are unrated or rated in the lower rating categories (i.e., ratings of BB or lower by Standard & Poor's or Ba or lower by Moody's). Bonds rated BB or Ba or below by Standard & Poor's or Moody's (or comparable unrated securities) are commonly referred to as "lower-rated" securities or as "junk bonds" and are considered speculative and may be questionable as to principal and interest payments. In some cases, such bonds may be highly speculative, have poor prospects for reaching investment standing and be in default. As a result, investment in such bonds will entail greater speculative risks than those associated with investment in investment-grade bonds (i.e., bonds rated AAA, AA, A or BBB by Standard & Poor's or Aaa, Aa, A or Baa by Moody's).
An economic downturn could severely affect the ability of highly leveraged issuers of junk bonds to service their debt obligations or to repay their obligations upon maturity. Factors having an adverse impact on the market value of lower rated securities will have an adverse effect on a fund's net asset value to the extent it invests in such securities. In addition, a fund may incur additional expenses to the extent it is required to seek recovery upon a default in payment of principal or interest on its portfolio holdings.
The secondary market for junk bond securities, which is concentrated in relatively few market makers, may not be as liquid as the secondary market for more highly rated securities, a factor which may have an adverse effect on a fund's ability to dispose of a particular security when necessary to meet its liquidity needs. Under adverse market or economic conditions, the secondary market for junk bond securities could contract further, independent of any specific adverse changes in the condition of a particular issuer. As a result, the Investment Adviser could find it more difficult to sell these securities or may be able to sell the securities only at prices lower than if such securities were widely traded. Prices realized upon the sale of such lower rated or unrated securities, under these circumstances, may be less than the prices used in calculating a fund's net asset value.
Since investors generally perceive that there are greater risks associated with lower-rated debt securities, the yields and prices of such securities may tend to fluctuate more than those for higher rated securities. In the lower quality segments of the fixed-income securities market, changes in perceptions of issuers' creditworthiness tend to occur more frequently and in a more pronounced manner than do changes in higher quality segments of the fixed-income securities market resulting in greater yield and price volatility.
Another factor which causes fluctuations in the prices of fixed-income securities is the supply and demand for similarly rated securities. In addition, the prices of fixed-income securities fluctuate in response to the general level of interest rates. Fluctuations in the prices of portfolio securities subsequent to their acquisition will not affect cash income from such securities but will be reflected in a fund's net asset value.
Lower-rated (and comparable non-rated) securities tend to offer higher yields than higher-rated securities with the same maturities because the historical financial condition of the issuers of such securities may not have been as strong as that of other issuers. Since lower rated securities generally involve greater risks of loss of income and principal than higher-rated securities, investors should consider carefully the relative risks associated with investment in securities which carry lower ratings and in comparable non-rated securities. In addition to the risk of default, there are the related costs of recovery on defaulted issues. The Investment Adviser will attempt to reduce these risks through diversification of these funds' portfolios and by analysis of each issuer and its ability to make timely payments of income and principal, as well as broad economic trends in corporate developments.
CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES
Each fund may each invest in convertible securities. Convertible securities may include corporate notes or preferred stock but are ordinarily a long-term debt obligation of the issuer convertible at a stated conversion rate into common stock of the issuer. As with all debt and income-bearing securities, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. Convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than non-convertible securities of similar quality. However, when the market price of the common stock underlying a convertible security exceeds the conversion price, the price of the convertible security tends to reflect the value of the underlying common stock. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the convertible security tends to trade increasingly on a yield basis, and thus may not decline in price to the same extent as the underlying common stock. Convertible securities rank senior to common stocks in an issuer's capital structure and are consequently of higher quality and entail less risk than the issuer's common stock. In evaluating a convertible security, the fund's Investment Adviser gives primary emphasis to the attractiveness of the underlying common stock. The convertible debt securities in which the funds may invest are subject to the same rating criteria as that fund's investments in non-convertible debt securities. Convertible debt securities, the market yields of which are substantially below prevailing yields on non-convertible debt securities of comparable quality and maturity, are treated as equity securities for the purposes of a fund's investment policies or restrictions.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
Each fund may enter into repurchase agreements. In a repurchase agreement, a security is purchased for a relatively short period (usually not more than 7 days) subject to the obligation to sell it back to the seller at a fixed time and price plus accrued interest. The funds will enter into repurchase agreements only with member banks of the Federal Reserve System and with "primary dealers" in U.S. Government securities. The Investment Adviser will continuously monitor the creditworthiness of the parties with whom the funds enter into repurchase agreements.
The Trust has established a procedure providing that the securities serving as collateral for each repurchase agreement must be delivered to the Trust's custodian either physically or in book-entry form and that the collateral must be marked to market daily to ensure that each repurchase agreement is fully collateralized at all times. In the event of bankruptcy or other default by a seller of a repurchase agreement, a fund could experience delays in liquidating the underlying securities during the period in which the fund seeks to enforce its rights thereto, possible subnormal levels of income, declines in value of the underlying securities or lack of access to income during this period and the expense of enforcing its rights.
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
Each fund may also enter into reverse repurchase agreements which involve the sale of U.S. Government securities held in its portfolio to a bank with an agreement that the fund will buy back the securities at a fixed future date at a fixed price plus an agreed amount of "interest" which may be reflected in the repurchase price. Reverse repurchase agreements are considered to be borrowings by the fund entering into them. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the risk that the market value of securities purchased by the fund with proceeds of the transaction may decline below the repurchase price of the securities sold by the fund which it is obligated to repurchase. A fund that has entered into a reverse repurchase agreement will also continue to be subject to the risk of a decline in the market value of the securities sold under the agreements because it will reacquire those securities upon effecting their repurchase. To minimize various risks associated with reverse repurchase agreements, each fund will establish and maintain with the Trust's custodian a separate account consisting of liquid securities, of any type or maturity, in an amount at least equal to the repurchase prices of the securities (plus any accrued interest thereon) under such agreements. No fund will enter into reverse repurchase agreements and other borrowings (except from banks as a temporary measure for extraordinary emergency purposes) in amounts in excess of 30% of the fund's total assets (including the amount borrowed) taken at market value. No fund will use leverage to attempt to increase income. No fund will purchase securities while outstanding borrowings exceed 5% of the fund's total assets. Each fund will enter into reverse repurchase agreements only with federally insured banks which are approved in advance as being creditworthy by the Trustees. Under procedures established by the Trustees, the Investment Adviser will monitor the creditworthiness of the banks involved.
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES
Each fund may purchase U.S. Government Securities. U.S. Government Securities are obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies, authorities or instrumentalities.
Certain U.S. Government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds, and Government National Mortgage Association certificates ("Ginnie Maes"), are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Certain other U.S. Government securities, issued or guaranteed by Federal agencies or government sponsored enterprises, are not supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, but may be supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury. These securities include obligations of the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Macs"), and obligations supported by the credit of the instrumentality, such as Federal National Mortgage Association Bonds ("Fannie Maes"). No assurance can be given that the U.S. Government will provide financial support to such Federal agencies, authorities, instrumentalities and government sponsored enterprises in the future. U.S. Government Securities may also include zero coupon bonds.
Ginnie Maes, Freddie Macs and Fannie Maes are mortgage-backed securities which provide monthly payments which are, in effect, a "pass-through" of the monthly interest and principal payments (including any prepayments) made by individual borrowers on the pooled mortgage loans. Collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs") in which the fund may invest are securities issued by a corporation or a U.S. Government instrumentality that are collateralized by a portfolio of mortgages or mortgage-backed securities. Mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than traditional debt obligations of similar maturity at maintaining yields during periods of declining interest rates. (See "Mortgage-Backed and Asset-Backed Securities.")
Each fund may invest in separately traded principal and interest components of securities guaranteed or issued by the U.S. Treasury if such components are traded independently under the Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities program ("STRIPS").
Each fund may acquire securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. Government, its agencies, authorities or instrumentalities in the form of custody receipts. Such receipts evidence ownership of future interest payments, principal payments or both on certain notes or bonds issued by the U.S. Government, its agencies, authorities or instrumentalities. For certain securities law purposes, custody receipts are not considered obligations of the U.S. Government.
FORWARD COMMITMENT AND WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES
Each fund may purchase securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis. "When-issued" refers to securities whose terms are available and for which a market exists, but which have not been issued. Each fund will engage in when-issued transactions with respect to securities purchased for its portfolio in order to obtain what is considered to be an advantageous price and yield at the time of the transaction. For when-issued transactions, no payment is made until delivery is due, often a month or more after the purchase. In a forward commitment transaction, a fund contracts to purchase securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond customary settlement time.
When a fund engages in forward commitment and when-issued transactions, it relies on the seller to consummate the transaction. The failure of the issuer or seller to consummate the transaction may result in the fund's losing the opportunity to obtain a price and yield considered to be advantageous. The purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis also involves a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines prior to the settlement date.
On the date a fund enters into an agreement to purchase securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis, the fund will segregate in a separate account cash or liquid securities, of any type or maturity, equal in value to the fund's commitment. These assets will be valued daily at market, and additional cash or securities will be segregated in a separate account to the extent that the total value of the assets in the account declines below the amount of the when-issued commitments. Alternatively, a fund may enter into offsetting contracts for the forward sale of other securities that it owns.
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS
Each fund may invest in shares of real estate investment trusts ("REITs"). REITs are pooled investment vehicles that invest primarily in income producing real estate or real estate related loans or interests. REITs are generally classified as equity REITs, mortgage REITs or a combination of equity and mortgage REITs. Equity REITs invest the majority of their assets directly in real property and derive income primarily from the collection of rents. Equity REITs can also realize capital gains by selling properties that have appreciated in value. Mortgage REITs invest the majority of their assets in real estate mortgages and derive income from the collection of interest payments. REITs are not taxed on income distributed to shareholders provided they comply with several requirements of the Code. A fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses paid by REITs in which it invests in addition to the expenses paid by a fund.
Investing in REITs involves certain unique risks. Equity REITs may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by such REITs, while mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of any credit extended. REITs are dependent upon management skills, are not diversified (except to the extent the Code requires), and are subject to the risks of financing projects. REITs are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers, self-liquidation, and the possibilities of failing to qualify for the exemption from tax for distributed income under the Code and failing to maintain their exemptions from the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). REITs (especially mortgage REITS) are also subject to interest rate risks.
EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS (ETFS). Each fund may invest in ETFs, which are shares of publicly-traded unit investment trusts, open-end funds, or depositary receipts that seek to track the performance and dividend yield of specific indexes or companies in related industries. These indexes may be either broad-based, sector or international. ETF shareholders are generally subject to the same risks as holders of the underlying securities they are designed to track.
ETFs are also subject to certain additional risks, including (1) the risk that their prices may not correlate perfectly with changes in the prices of the underlying securities they are designed to track; and (2) the risk of possible trading halts due to market conditions or other reasons, based on the policies of the exchange upon which an ETF trades. In addition, an exchange traded sector fund may be adversely affected by the
performance of that specific sector or group of industries on which it is based. The fund would bear, along with other shareholders of an ETF, its pro rata portion of the ETF's expenses, including management fees. Accordingly, in addition to bearing their proportionate share of the fund's expenses (i.e., management fees and operating expenses), shareholders of the fund may also indirectly bear similar expenses of an ETF.
INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS
Each fund may purchase securities in an initial public offerings ("IPO"). The prices of securities purchased in and IPO can be very volatile. The effect of securities purchased in an IPO on a fund's performance depends on a variety of factors, including the number of IPOs each fund invests in relative to the size of each fund and whether and to what extent a security purchased in an IPO appreciates and depreciates in value. As the respective fund's asset base increases, IPOs often have a diminished effect on such fund's performance.
TYPES OF INVESTMENT RISK
Active or Frequent Trading Risk. The risk of the realization and distribution to shareholders of higher capital gains as compared to a series with less active trading policies. Frequent trading also increases transaction costs, which could detract from the performance.
Correlation Risk. The risk that changes in the value of a hedging instrument or hedging technique will not match those of the asset being hedged (hedging is the use of one investment to offset the possible adverse effects of another investment).
Credit Risk. The risk that the issuer of a security, or the counterparty to a contract, will default or otherwise not honor a financial obligation.
Currency Risk. The risk that fluctuations in the exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies may negatively affect the U.S. dollar value of an investment.
Extension Risk. The risk that an unexpected rise in prevailing interest rates will extend the life of an outstanding mortgage-backed security by reducing the expected number of mortgage prepayments, typically reducing the security's value.
Hedging Risk. When a fund hedges an asset it holds (typically by using a derivative contract or derivative security), any gain or loss generated by the hedge should be substantially offset by losses or gains on the hedged asset. Hedging is a useful way to reduce or eliminate risk of loss, but it will also reduce or eliminate the potential for investment gains.
Information Risk. The risk that key information about a security or market is inaccurate or unavailable.
Interest Rate Risk. The risk of declines in market value of an income bearing investment due to changes in prevailing interest rates. With fixed-rate securities, a rise in interest rates typically causes a decline in market values, while a fall in interest rates typically causes an increase in market values.
Leverage Risk. The risks associated with securities or investment practices that enhance return (or loss) without increasing the amount of investment, such as buying securities on margin or using certain derivative contracts or derivative securities. A fund's gain or loss on a leveraged position may be greater than the actual market gain or loss in the underlying security or instrument. A fund may also incur additional costs in taking a leveraged position (such as interest on borrowings) that may not be incurred in taking a non-leveraged position.
Liquidity Risk. The risk that certain securities or other investments may be difficult or impossible to sell at the time the fund would like to sell them or at the price the fund values them.
Management Risk. The risk that a strategy used by a fund's investment adviser or subadviser may fail to produce the intended result. This risk is common to all mutual funds.
Market Risk. The risk that the market value of a security may move up and down, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably, due to factors that have nothing to do with the issuer. This risk is common to all stocks and bonds and the mutual funds that invest in them.
Natural Event Risk. The risk of losses attributable to natural disasters, crop failures and similar events.
Opportunity Risk. The risk of missing out on an investment opportunity because the assets necessary to take advantage of it are tied up in less advantageous investments.
Political Risk. The risk of losses directly attributable to government actions or political events of any sort.
Speculation Risk. Speculation is the assumption of risk in anticipation of gain but recognizing a higher than average possibility of loss. To the extent that a derivative contract or derivative security is used speculatively (i.e., not used as a hedge), the fund is directly exposed to the risks of that derivative contract or security. Gains or losses from speculative positions in a derivative contract or security may be substantially greater than the derivative contract or security's original cost.
Valuation Risk. The risk that a Fund could not sell a security or other portfolio investment for the market value or fair value established for it at any time. Similarly, the risk that the fair valuation of securities or other portfolio investments may result in greater fluctuation in their value from one day to the next than would be the case if the market values were available.
HIGHER-RISK SECURITIES AND PRACTICES
SECURITY OR PRACTICE DESCRIPTION RELATED RISKS -------------------- ----------- ------------- American Depository Receipts ADRs are receipts typically issued by a U.S. financial Market, currency, (ADRs) institution which evidence ownership of underlying securities of information, natural event, foreign corporate issuers. Generally, ADRs are in registered and political risks (i.e., form and are designed for trading in U.S. markets. the risks of foreign securities). Borrowing The borrowing of money from financial institutions or through Leverage and credit risks. reverse repurchase agreements. Emerging Market Securities Any foreign securities primarily traded on exchanges located in Credit, market, currency, or issued by companies organized or primarily operating in information, liquidity, countries that are considered lesser developed than countries interest rate, valuation, like the U.S., Australia, Japan, or those of Western Europe. natural event, and political risks. European and Global Depository EDRs and GDRs are receipts evidencing an arrangement with a Market, currency, Receipts (EDRs and GDRs) non-U.S. financial institution similar to that for ADRs and are information, natural event, designed for use in non-U.S. securities markets. EDRs and GDRs and political risks (i.e., are not necessarily quoted in the same currency as the the risks of foreign underlying security. securities). Foreign Money Market Securities Short-term debt obligations issued either by foreign financial Market, currency, institutions or by foreign branches of U.S. financial information, interest rate, institutions or foreign issuers. natural event, and political risks. Foreign Securities Securities issued by companies organized or whose principal Market, currency, operations are outside the U.S., securities issued by companies information, natural event, whose securities are principally traded outside the U.S., or and political risks. securities denominated or quoted in foreign currency. The term "foreign securities" includes ADRs, EDRs, GDRs, and foreign money market securities. Forward Foreign Currency Contracts involving the right or obligation to buy or sell a Currency, liquidity, and Exchange Contracts given amount of foreign currency at a specified price and future leverage risks. When used date. for hedging, also has hedging, correlation, and opportunity risks. When used speculatively, also has speculation risks. Futures Contracts (including In general, an agreement to buy or sell a specific amount of a Interest rate, currency, financial futures contracts) commodity, financial instrument, or index at a particular price market, hedging or on a stipulated future date. Financial futures contracts include speculation, leverage, interest rate futures contracts, securities index futures correlation, liquidity, contracts, and currency futures contracts. Unlike an option, a credit, and opportunity futures contract obligates the buyer to buy and the seller to risks. sell the underlying commodity or financial instrument at the agreed-upon price and date or to pay or receive money in an amount equal to such price. Illiquid Securities Any investment that may be difficult or impossible to sell Liquidity, valuation and within 7 days for the price at which the fund values it. market risks. IPOs The purchase of securities of companies that are being offered Liquidity, valuation, and to the public for purchase for the first time. market risk. Mortgage-Backed Securities Securities backed by pools of mortgages, including passthrough Credit, extension, certificates, planned amortization classes (PACs), targeted prepayment, and interest amortization classes (TACs), collateralized mortgage obligations rate risks. (CMOs), and when available, pools of mortgage loans generated by credit unions. Non-Investment Grade Securities Investing in debt securities rated below BBB/Baa (i.e., "junk" Credit, market, interest bonds). rate, liquidity, valuation, and information risks. Options (including options on In general, an option is the right to buy (called a "call") or Interest rate, currency, financial futures contracts) sell (called a "put") property for an agreed-upon price at any market, hedging or time prior to an expiration date. Both call and put options may speculation, leverage, be either written (i.e., sold) or purchased on securities, correlation, liquidity, indices, interest rate futures contracts, index futures credit, and opportunity contracts, or currency futures contracts. risks. Repurchase Agreements The purchase of a security that the seller agrees to buy back Credit risk. later at the same price plus interest. Restricted Securities Securities originally issued in a private placement rather than Liquidity, valuation, and a public offering. These securities often cannot be freely market risks. traded on the open market. Reverse Repurchase Agreements The lending of short-term debt securities; often used to Leverage and credit risks. facilitate borrowing. Securities Lending The lending of securities to financial institutions, which Credit risk. provide cash or government securities as collateral. Shares of Other Investment The purchase of shares issued by other investment companies. Market risks and the Companies These investments are subject to the fees and expenses of both layering of fees and the MEMBERS Mutual Funds and the other investment company. expenses. Short-Term Trading Selling a security soon after purchase or purchasing it soon Market risk. after it was sold (a fund engaging in short-term trading will have higher turnover and |
SECURITY OR PRACTICE DESCRIPTION RELATED RISKS -------------------- ----------- ------------- transaction expenses). Smaller Capitalization The purchase of securities issued by a company with a market Market risk. Companies capitalization (i.e., the price per share of its common stock multiplied by the number of shares of common stock outstanding) of less than $2 billion. Swaps The entry into interest rate, index and currency exchange rate Market, liquidity, currency, swap agreements whereby the parties agree to exchange rates of leverage and opportunity return (or differentials therein) earned or realized on risks. predetermined investments or instruments. When-Issued Securities and The purchase or sale of securities for delivery at a future Market, opportunity, and Forward Commitments date; market value may change before delivery. leverage risks. |
HIGHER-RISK SECURITIES AND PRACTICES TABLE. The following table shows each fund's investment limitations with respect to certain higher risk securities and practices as a percentage of portfolio assets. A number in the column indicates the maximum percentage of total assets that the fund is permitted to invest in that practice or type of security. Numbers in this table show allowable usage only, for actual usage, consult the fund's annual and semi-annual reports.
Small Cap Small Cap Value Growth --------- --------- Investment Practices Borrowing; Reverse Repurchase Agreements 30 30 Repurchase Agreements * * Securities Lending 33 1/3 33 1/3 Short-term Trading * * When-Issued Securities; Forward Commitments * * Conventional Securities Shares of Other Investment Companies 10 10 Non-Investment Grade Securities 30 30 Foreign Securities 20 20 Emerging Market Securities 15 15 Illiquid Securities(1) 15 15 Restricted Securities 15 15 Mortgage-backed Securities X X Derivative Securities and Contracts Swaps, Options and Futures Contracts: - Swaps 15 15 - Options on Securities, Indices or Currencies 25** 25** - Futures Contracts(2) 25** 25** - Options on Futures Contracts(2) 25** 25** Forward Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts 10** 10** |
(1) Numbers in this row refer to net, rather than total, assets.
(2) Financial futures contracts and related options only, including futures, contracts and options on futures contracts and on currencies.
LEGEND
* One asterisk means that there is no policy limitation on the fund's usage of that practice or type of security, and that the fund may be currently using that practice or investing in that type of security.
** Two asterisks mean that the fund is permitted to use that practice or invest in that type of security, but is not expected to do so on a regular basis.
X An "x" mark means that the fund is not permitted to use that practice or invest in that type of security.
FUND NAMES
In compliance with Rule 35d-1 of the Investment Company Act, a fund name that suggests the fund will focus its investments in a particular industry, group of industries, or type of investment must invest at least 80% of its assets in the particular industry, group of industries, or type of investment that the name suggests. The rule includes, but is not limited to, funds whose names include the terms "small, mid or large capitalization", "municipal and municipal bond", "high-yield", "stock", the name of a country or geographical region, tax-exempt, or an industry name. We believe the SMALL CAP VALUE and SMALL CAP GROWTH FUNDS come under this rule. Shareholders of funds subject to this rule will receive a 60-day written notice of any change to the investment policy describing the type of investment that the name suggests.
INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
The Trust has adopted the following restrictions and policies relating to the investment of assets and the activities of each fund. The following restrictions are fundamental and may not be changed for a fund without the approval of the holders of a majority of the outstanding votes of that fund (which for this purpose and under the 1940 Act means the lesser of (i) sixty-seven percent (67%) of the outstanding votes attributable to shares represented at a meeting at which more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding votes attributable to shares are represented or (ii) more than fifty percent (50%) of the outstanding votes attributable to shares). No fund may:
(1) with respect to 75% of the fund's total assets, purchase securities of an
issuer (other than the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities),
if (i) such purchase would cause more than 5% of the fund's total assets
taken at market value to be invested in the securities of such issuer, or
(ii) such purchase would at the time result in more than 10% of the
outstanding voting securities of such issuer being held by the fund;
(2) invest 25% or more of its total assets in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry (excluding the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities).
(3) borrow money, except (a) the fund may borrow from banks (as defined in the 1940 Act) and through reverse repurchase agreements in amounts up to 30% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed), (b) the fund may, to the extent permitted by applicable law, borrow
up to an additional 5% of its total assets for temporary purposes, (c) the
fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary for the
clearance of purchases and sales of portfolio securities, (d) the fund may
purchase securities on margin to the extent permitted by applicable law and
(e) the fund may engage in transactions in mortgage dollar rolls which are
accounted for as financings;
(4) make loans, except through (a) the purchase of debt obligations in accordance with the fund's investment objective and policies, (b) repurchase agreements with banks, brokers, dealers and other financial institutions, and (c) loans of securities as permitted by applicable law;
(5) underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the sale of portfolio securities by the fund may be deemed to be an underwriting;
(6) purchase, hold or deal in real estate, although a fund may purchase and sell securities that are secured by real estate or interests therein, securities of real estate investment trusts and mortgage-related securities and may hold and sell real estate acquired by a fund as a result of the ownership of securities;
(7) invest in commodities or commodity contracts, except that the fund may invest in currency, and financial instruments and contracts that are commodities or commodity contracts; or
(8) issue senior securities to the extent such issuance would violate applicable law.
The following restrictions are not fundamental policies and may be changed without the approval of the shareholders in the affected fund. No fund will:
(1) sell securities short or maintain a short position except for short sales against the box; or
(2) invest in foreign securities in excess of the following percentages of the value of its total assets:
Small Cap Value Fund 20% Small Cap Growth Fund 20% |
(3) purchase any security which is not readily marketable if more than 15% of the net assets of the fund taken at market value, would be invested in such securities.
Except for the limitations on borrowing from banks, if the above percentage restrictions are adhered to at the time of investment, a later increase or decrease in such percentage resulting from a change in values of securities or amount of net assets will not be considered a violation of any of the foregoing restrictions.
TEMPORARY DEFENSIVE POSITIONS
Although each fund expects to pursue its investment objective utilizing its principal investment strategies regardless of market conditions, each fund may invest up to 100% in money market securities as a defensive tactic in abnormal market conditions.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
Each fund will trade securities held by it whenever, in the Investment Adviser's view, changes are appropriate to achieve the stated investment objectives. The Investment Adviser does not anticipate that unusual portfolio turnover will be required and intends to keep such turnover to moderate levels consistent with the objectives of each fund. Although the Investment Adviser makes no assurances, it is expected that the annual portfolio turnover rate for each fund will be generally less than 100%. This would mean that normally less than 100% of the securities held by the fund would be replaced in any one year.
MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST
MEMBERS Mutual Funds are governed by a Board of Trustees. The Trustees have the duties and responsibilities set forth under the applicable laws of the State of Delaware, including but not limited to the management and supervision of the funds.
The board, from time to time, may include individuals who may be deemed to be affiliated persons of MEMBERS Capital Advisors, the fund's adviser. At all times, however, a majority of board members will not be affiliated with MEMBERS Capital Advisors or the funds.
The funds do not hold annual shareholder meetings, but may hold special meetings for such purposes as electing or removing board members, changing fundamental policies, approving certain management contracts, approving or amending a 12b-1 plan, or as otherwise required by the 1940 Act.
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS
Each Trustee and Officer oversees 27 portfolios in the fund complex, which consists of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds with 14 portfolios and the Ultra Series Fund with 13 portfolios. The address of each Trustee and Officer is 5910 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53705.
INTERESTED TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS
TERM OF OFFICE NUMBER OF OTHER AND PORTFOLIOS OUTSIDE POSITION(S) LENGTH OVERSEEN DIRECTORSHIPS NAME AND HELD WITH OF TIME PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION DURING IN FUND HELD BY YEAR OF BIRTH THE FUND SERVED(1) PAST FIVE YEARS COMPLEX(2) TRUSTEES ------------- ----------- --------- --------------------------- ---------- ------------- David P. Marks(3),(4) Trustee, 2006 - CUNA Mutual Insurance Society, Madison, WI 27 CBRE 1947 President Present Chief Investment Officer, 2005-Present Realty and Finance Principal MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., Madison, WI Executive President, 2005-Present Officer (PEO) CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company, Madison, WI, Chief Officer-Investments, 2005-Present Citigroup Insurance Investors, Hartford, CT Chief Investment Officer, 2004-2005 Cigna Investments, Hartford, CT Chief Investment Officer, 2002-2004 Green Mountain Partners, Quechee, VT 2001-2002 Allianz Investments, Westport, CT, Chief Investment Officer, 1991-2001 Lawrence R. Halverson(3),(4) Trustee 1997 - MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., Madison, WI 27 None 1945 President Present Managing Director, Equities, 2006-Present and PEO 1997-2005 Senior Vice President, Equities, 1996-2005 Molly Nelson(3) Chief 2005 - MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., Madison, WI 27 1962 Compliance Present Chief Compliance Officer, 2005- Present None Officer Harris Associates L.P., Chicago, IL Chief Compliance Officer/Advisor, 1985-2005 Mary E. Hoffmann(3) Treasurer 1998 - MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., Madison, WI 27 N/A 1970 Present Vice President-Finance & Operations, 2006-Present; Assistant Vice President-Finance & Operations, 2001-2005 1999 - MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., Madison, WI 27 N/A Holly S. Baggot(3) Secretary Present Director, Mutual Fund Operations, 1960 and 2006-Present; Operations Officer-Mutual Assistant Funds, 2005-2006; Senior Manager-Product & Treasurer Fund Operations, 2001-2005 Dan Owens(3) Assistant 2000 - MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., Madison, WI 27 N/A 1966 Treasurer Present Director, Investment Operations, 2006-Present; Investment Operations Officer, 2005-2006; Senior Manager-Portfolio Operations, 2001-2005 |
(2) The Fund Complex consists of the Trust, with 14 portfolios, and Ultra Series Fund, with 13 portfolios.
(3) "Interested person" as defined in the 1940 Act.
(4) Considered an "interested" trustee because of the position held with the investment advisor of the Trust.
INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES
TERM OF OFFICE NUMBER OF OTHER AND PORTFOLIOS OUTSIDE POSITION(S) LENGTH OVERSEEN DIRECTORSHIPS NAME AND HELD WITH OF TIME PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION DURING IN FUND HELD BY YEAR OF BIRTH THE FUND SERVED(3) PAST FIVE YEARS COMPLEX(4) TRUSTEES ------------- ----------- --------- --------------------------- ---------- ------------- Rolf F. Bjelland Chairman 2006 - Lutheran Brotherhood Mutual Funds 1938 Present Chairman and President, 1983-2002 27 Regis Corp., Trustee 2003- Lutheran Brotherhood (now Thrivent Director, Present Financial), Chief Investment Officer, 1982-Present 1983-2002 Linda S. Foeltz Trustee 2006 Dougherty Consulting, LLC, President/ 1950 -Present Owner, 2005-Present Direct Direct Supply, Inc., Executive Vice Supply, President of Corporate Development and Inc. Chief Financial Officer (1988-2005) Director, 2003-Present Steven P. Riege Trustee 2005 - The Rgroup, Mequon, WI, Consulting, 27 None 1954 Present 2001-Present Robert W. Baird & Company, Milwaukee, WI, Sr. Vice President Marketing/Vice President Human Resources, 1986-2001 Richard E. Struthers Trustee 2004 - Clearwater Capital Management, 27 None 1952 Present Minneapolis, MN, Chairman and CEO, 1998-Present |
Set forth below for each of the Trust's Officers and Trustees other than the Independent Trustees is information regarding positions held with affiliated persons or the principal underwriter of the Trust. The Independent Trustees did not hold any such positions, other than serving as Trustees of the other portfolios in the Fund Complex.
POSITIONS HELD WITH AFFILIATED PERSONS OR OTHER FUNDS IN FUND COMPLEX FOR NAME PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITER OF THE TRUST WHICH THE SAME POSITION IS HELD ---- ------------------------------------------- ------------------------------- David P. Marks MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. Ultra Series Fund President and Director, 2005 - Present consisting of 13 portfolios Lawrence R. Halverson MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. Ultra Series Fund Senior Vice President, 1996 - Present; consisting of 13 portfolios Molly Nelson MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. Ultra Series Fund Chief Compliance Officer, 2005 - Present consisting of 13 portfolios Holly S. Baggot MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. Director, Mutual Fund Operations, 2006 - Ultra Series Fund Present; Operations Officer-Mutual Funds, consisting of 13 portfolios 2005-2006; Senior Manager, Product Operations 2001 - 2005 Mary E. Hoffmann MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. Vice President-Finance & Operations, Ultra Series Fund 2006-Present; Assistant Vice consisting of 13 portfolios President-Finance & Operations, 2001 - 2005 Dan Owens MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. Director, Investment Operations, Ultra Series Fund 2006-Present; Investment Operations Consisting of 13 portfolios Officer, 2005-2006; Senior Manager, Portfolio Operations, 2001 - 2005 |
(4) The Fund Complex consists of the Trust, with 14 portfolios, and Ultra Series Fund, with 13 portfolios.
TRUSTEE COMPENSATION
AGGREGATE COMPENSATION FROM TOTAL COMPENSATION FROM TRUSTEE NAME TRUST(1) TRUST AND FUND COMPLEX(1),(2) ------------ --------------------------- ----------------------------- David P. Marks(3) None None Lawrence R. Halverson(3) None None Rolf F. Bjelland $ $ Gwendolyn M. Boeke(4) $ $ Linda S. Foltz(5) N/A N/A Steven P. Riege $ $ Richard E. Struthers $ $ |
(1) Amounts for the fiscal year ending October 31, 2006.
(2) Fund Complex includes the Trust and the Ultra Series Fund, consisting of 13 portfolios.
(3) Non-compensated interested trustee.
(4) Ms. Boeke's service on the Board of Trustees ended on November 30, 2006.
(5) Ms. Foltz did not receive any compensation from the Trust or fund complex during fiscal year 2006 because she was not elected to the Board of Trustees until November 30, 2006.
There have been no arrangements or understandings between any trustee or officer and any other person(s) pursuant to which (s)he was selected as a trustee or officer.
COMMITTEES
AUDIT COMMITTEE
Members: Richard E. Struthers - Chairman; Linda S. Foeltz; Steven P. Riege; and Rolf J. Bjelland.
Function: The Audit Committee, which has adopted and operates in accordance with a separate Audit Committee Charter, has as its purposes to meet with the Funds' independent registered public accountants to review the arrangements for and scope of the audit; discuss matters of concern relating to the Funds' financial statements, including any adjustments to such statements recommended by the independent registered public accountants, or other results of the audit; consider the independent registered public accountants' comments and suggestions with respect to the Fund's financial policies, accounting procedures and internal accounting controls; and review the form of audit opinion the accountants propose to render to the Funds.
The Audit Committee also reviews any memoranda prepared by the independent registered public accountants setting forth any recommended procedural changes; considers the effect upon the Fund of any changes in accounting principles or practices proposed by management or the independent registered public accountants; reviews audit and non-audit services provided to the Fund by the independent registered public accountants and the fees charged for such services; considers whether to retain the accountants for the next fiscal year and evaluates the independence of the independent registered public accountants and reports to the Board of Trustees from time to time and makes such recommendations as the committee deems necessary or appropriate.
The Audit Committee met four times in 2006.
TRUSTEES HOLDINGS
DOLLAR RANGE OF EQUITY SECURITIES AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF EQUITY NAME OF TRUSTEE IN MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS(1),(2) SECURITIES IN FUND COMPLEX(1),(2),(3) --------------- --------------------------------- ------------------------------------- INTERESTED TRUSTEES David P. Marks Lawrence R. Halverson INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES Rolf F. Bjelland Linds S. Foeltz None None Steven P. Riege Richard E. Struthers |
(1) Information provided is as of November 30, 2006.
(2) Dollar Ranges are as follows: None; $1 - $10,000; $10,001 - $50,000; $50,001 - $100,000and over $100,000.
(3) Fund Complex includes the Trust and the Ultra Series Fund consisting of 13 portfolios.
SALES LOAD WAIVERS FOR CERTAIN AFFILIATED PERSONS OF THE TRUST
Class A shares may be offered without front-end sales charges to individuals (and their "immediate family" as described in the prospectus) who within the past twelve months were trustees, directors, officers, or employees of the CUNA Mutual Group or any of its affiliated companies or were trustees or employees of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds and Ultra Series Fund Boards.
CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF THE TRUST'S SECURITIES
As of the date of this SAI, CUMIS Insurance Society, Inc., based upon its _________________ seed money investment in each fund, owns 100% of the shares of each such fund and may be deemed to control each fund. Until their ownership is diluted by the sale of shares to other shareholders or the redemption of their seed money, CUMIS Insurance Society, Inc. may each be able to significantly influence the outcome of any shareholder vote.
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT
THE MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT WITH MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.
The Management Agreement ("Agreement") requires that MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. provide continuous professional investment management of the investments of the Trust, including establishing an investment program complying with the investment objectives, policies, and restrictions of each fund. As compensation for its services, the Trust pays MEMBERS Capital Advisors a fee of computed at an annualized percentage rate of 1.0% on the average daily value of the net assets of each fund.
MEMBERS Capital Advisors has contractually agreed, until at least February 28, 2007, to reimburse all ordinary business expenses, other than management, 12b-1, and service fees, of each fund in excess of the following percentages of the average daily net assets of the funds (excluding taxes, interest and other extraordinary items):
Fund Other Expense "Cap" ---- ------------------- Small Cap Value Small Cap Growth |
Any reimbursement made by MEMBERS Capital Advisors to a fund is subject to repayment by the fund within the subsequent three (3) years, to the extent that the fund can make the repayment while remaining within the fee structure described above.
MEMBERS Capital Advisors makes the investment decisions and is responsible for the investment and reinvestment of assets; performs research, statistical analysis, and continuous supervision of the funds' investment portfolios; furnishes office space for the Trust; provides the Trust with such accounting data concerning the investment activities of the Trust as is required to be prepared and files all periodic financial reports and returns required to be filed with the Commission and any other regulatory agency; continuously monitors compliance by the Trust in its investment activities with the requirements of the 1940 Act and the rules promulgated pursuant thereto; and renders such periodic and special reports to the Trust as may be reasonably requested with respect to matters relating to MEMBERS Capital Advisors' duties.
MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.
CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company and CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation each own a one-half interest in MEMBERS Capital Advisors. CUNA Mutual Insurance Society is the sole owner of CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation. MEMBERS Capital Advisors has servicing agreements with CUNA Mutual Insurance Society and with CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company. CUNA Mutual Insurance Society and CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company entered into a permanent affiliation July 1, 1990. At the current time, all of the directors of CUNA Mutual Insurance Society are also directors of CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company and the two companies are managed by the same group of senior executive officers.
MEMBERS Capital Advisors' directors and principal officers are as follows:
David P. Marks Director and President Faye A. Patzner Director and Secretary Christine M. Anderson Director and Treasurer Thomas J. Merfeld Director John W. Petchler Vice President Marian M. Nelson Chief Compliance Officer Mary E. Hoffmann Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer Tracy K. Lien Assistant Secretary |
THE MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS WITH SUBADVISERS
As described in the prospectus, MEMBERS Capital Advisors manages the assets of the SMALL CAP VALUE and SMALL CAP GROWTH FUNDS using a "manager of managers" approach under which MEMBERS Capital Advisors allocates each fund's assets among one or more "specialist" subadvisers (each, a "subadviser"). The Trust and MEMBERS Capital Advisors have received an order from the Commission that permits the hiring of Subadvisers without shareholder approval. If MEMBERS Capital Advisors hires a new Subadviser pursuant to the order shareholders will receive an "information statement" within 90 days of a change in subadvisers that will provide relevant information about the reasons for the
change and any new Subadviser(s).
Even though subadvisers have day-to-day responsibility over the management of SMALL CAP VALUE and SMALL CAP GROWTH FUNDS, MEMBERS Capital Advisors retains the ultimate responsibility for the performance of these funds and will oversee the Subadvisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement.
THE SUBADVISER FOR THE SMALL CAP VALUE FUND
As of the date of the prospectus, Wellington Management Company, LLP ("Wellington Management") is the only subadviser managing the assets of the SMALL CAP VALUE FUND. For its services to the fund, Wellington Management receives a management fee from MEMBERS Capital Advisors, computed and accrued daily and paid monthly based on the average daily net assets in the fund.
THE SUBADVISER FOR THE SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
As of the date of the prospectus, Paradigm Asset Management Company, LLC ("Paradigm") is the only subadviser managing the assets of the SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND. For its services to the fund, Paradigm receives a management fee from MEMBERS Capital Advisors, computed and accrued daily and paid monthly based on the average daily net assets in the fund.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP
Compensation: Wellington Management pays its investment professionals out of its total revenues and other resources, including the advisory fees earned with respect to its sub-advisory agreements with MEMBERS Capital Advisors. The following information relates to the period beginning October 31, 2006.
Wellington Management's compensation structure is designed to attract and retain high-caliber investment professionals necessary to deliver high quality investment management services to its clients. Wellington Management's compensation of the investment professionals listed in the prospectus who are primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the fund ("Investment Professionals") includes a base salary and incentive components. The base salary for Mr. O'Brien, a partner of Wellington Management, is determined by the Managing Partners of the firm. Mr. O'Brien's base salary is generally a fixed amount that may change as a result of an annual review. The base salaries for the other Investment Professionals are determined by the Investment Professional's experience and performance in their respective roles. Base salaries for employees are reviewed annually and may be adjusted based on the recommendation of the Investment Professional's Business Manager, using guidelines established by Wellington Management's Compensation Committee, which has final oversight responsibility for base salaries for employees of the firm. Each Investment Professional is eligible to receive an incentive payment based on the revenues earned by Wellington Management from the fund managed by the Investment Professional and generally each other portfolio managed by such Investment Professional. Each Investment Professional's incentive payment relating to the fund is linked to the gross pre-tax performance of the portion of the fund managed by the Investment Professional compared to the Russell 2000(R) Value Index over one and three year periods, with an emphasis on three year results. Wellington Management applies similar incentive compensation structures (although the benchmarks or peer groups, time periods and rates may differ) to other portfolios managed by the Investment Professionals, including portfolios with performance fees. Portfolio-based incentives across all portfolios managed by an investment professional can, and typically do, represent a significant portion of an investment professional's overall compensation; incentive compensation varies significantly by individual and can vary significantly from year to year. The Investment Professionals may also be eligible for bonus payments based on their overall contribution to Wellington Management's business operations. Senior management at Wellington Management may reward individuals as it deems appropriate based on factors other than portfolio performance. Each partner of Wellington Management is eligible to participate in a partner-funded, tax qualified retirement plan, the contributions to which are made pursuant to an actuarial formula, as a partner of the firm.
Other Accounts Managed:
TIMOTHY J. MCCORMACK
TOTAL ASSETS IN ACCOUNTS WITH ACCOUNTS WITH NUMBER OF OTHER TOTAL ASSETS PERFORMANCE-BASED PERFORMANCE-BASED TYPES OF ACCOUNTS ACCOUNTS MANAGED IN ACCOUNTS ADVISORY FEES ADVISORY FEES ----------------- ---------------- ------------ ----------------- ----------------- Registered Investment Companies Other Pooled Investment Vehicles Other Accounts |
STEPHEN T. O'BRIEN
TOTAL ASSETS IN ACCOUNTS WITH ACCOUNTS WITH NUMBER OF OTHER TOTAL ASSETS PERFORMANCE-BASED PERFORMANCE-BASED TYPES OF ACCOUNTS ACCOUNTS MANAGED IN ACCOUNTS ADVISORY FEES ADVISORY FEES ----------------- ---------------- ------------ ----------------- ----------------- Registered Investment Companies Other Pooled Investment Vehicles Other Accounts |
SHAUN F. PEDERSEN
TOTAL ASSETS IN ACCOUNTS WITH ACCOUNTS WITH NUMBER OF OTHER TOTAL ASSETS PERFORMANCE-BASED PERFORMANCE-BASED TYPES OF ACCOUNTS ACCOUNTS MANAGED IN ACCOUNTS ADVISORY FEES ADVISORY FEES ----------------- ---------------- ------------ ----------------- ----------------- Registered Investment Companies Other Pooled Investment Vehicles Other Accounts |
Material Conflicts of Interest: Individual Investment Professionals at Wellington Management manage multiple accounts for multiple clients. These accounts may include mutual funds, separate accounts (assets managed on behalf of institutions, such as pension funds, insurance companies, foundations, or separately managed account programs sponsored by financial intermediaries), bank common trust accounts, and hedge funds. The Fund's Investment Professionals generally manage accounts in several different investment styles. These accounts may have investment objectives, strategies, time horizons, tax considerations and risk profiles that differ from those of the Fund. The Investment Professionals make investment decisions for each account, including the Fund, based on the investment objectives, policies, practices, benchmarks, cash flows, tax and other relevant investment considerations applicable to that account. Consequently, the Investment Professionals may purchase or sell securities, including IPOs, for one account and not another account, and the performance of securities purchased for one account may vary from the performance of securities purchased for other accounts. Alternatively, these accounts may be managed in a similar fashion to the Fund and thus the accounts may have similar, and in some cases nearly identical, objectives, strategies and/or holdings to that of the Fund.
An Investment Professional or other investment professionals at Wellington Management may place transactions on behalf of other accounts that are directly or indirectly contrary to investment decisions made on behalf of the Fund, or make investment decisions that are similar to those made for the Fund, both of which have the potential to adversely impact the Fund depending on market conditions. For example, an Investment Professional may purchase a security in one account while appropriately selling that same security in another account. Similarly, an Investment Professional may purchase the same security for the Fund and one or more other accounts at or about the same time, and in those instances the other accounts will have access to their respective holdings prior to the public disclosure of the Fund's holdings. In addition, some of these accounts have fee structures, including performance fees, which are or have the potential to be higher, in some cases significantly higher, than the fees paid by the Fund to Wellington Management. Because incentive payments paid by Wellington Management to the Investment Professionals are tied to revenues earned by Wellington Management, and, where noted, to the performance achieved by the manager in each account, the incentives associated with any given account may be significantly higher or lower than those associated with other accounts managed by a given Investment Professional. Finally, the Investment Professionals may hold shares or investments in the other pooled investment vehicles and/or other accounts identified above.
Wellington Management's goal is to meet its fiduciary obligation to treat all clients fairly and provide high quality investment services to all of its clients. Wellington Management has adopted and implemented policies and procedures, including brokerage and trade allocation policies and procedures that it believes address the conflicts associated with managing multiple accounts for multiple clients. In addition, Wellington Management monitors a variety of areas, including compliance with primary Fund guidelines, the allocation of IPOs, and compliance with the firm's Code of Ethics, and places additional investment restrictions on Investment Professionals who manage hedge funds and certain other accounts. Furthermore, senior investment and business personnel at Wellington Management periodically review the performance of Wellington Management's Investment Professionals. Although Wellington Management does not track the time an Investment Professional spends on a single portfolio, Wellington Management does periodically assess whether an Investment Professional has adequate time and resources to effectively manage the Investment Professional's various client mandates.
AS OF OCTOBER 31, 2006, THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OWNED THE FOLLOWING EQUITY SECURITIES IN THE FUNDS:
DOLLAR RANGE OF EQUITY SECURITIES AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF EQUITY NAME OF PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS SECURITIES IN FUND COMPLEX (1) ------------------------- --------------------------------- -------------------------------- Stephen T. O'Brien None None Timothy J. McCormack None None Shaun F. Pederson None None |
(1) Fund Complex includes the Trust and the Ultra Series Fund, consisting of 13 portfolios
PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLC
Compensation: Paradigm Asset Management pays its investment professionals out of its total revenues and other resources, including the advisory fees earned with respect to its sub-advisory agreements with MEMBERS Capital Advisors. The following information relates to the period beginning September 30, 2006.
Paradigm Asset Management's compensation structure is designed to attract and retain high-caliber investment professionals necessary to deliver high quality investment management services to its clients. Paradigm's compensation of the investment professionals listed in the prospectus who are primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the funds ("Investment Professionals") includes a base salary and a share of the firm's profits, if any, through their partnership interest in the firm.
Other Accounts Managed:
JAMES E. FRANCIS
TOTAL ASSETS IN ACCOUNTS WITH ACCOUNTS WITH NUMBER OF OTHER TOTAL ASSETS PERFORMANCE-BASED PERFORMANCE-BASED TYPES OF ACCOUNTS ACCOUNTS MANAGED IN ACCOUNTS ADVISORY FEES ADVISORY FEES ----------------- ---------------- ------------ ----------------- ----------------- Registered Investment Companies -- -- -- -- Other Pooled Investment Vehicles -- -- -- -- Other Accounts 25 $886.5 mil 1 $37.7 mil |
JEFFREY E. MARCUS
TOTAL ASSETS IN ACCOUNTS WITH ACCOUNTS WITH NUMBER OF OTHER TOTAL ASSETS PERFORMANCE-BASED PERFORMANCE-BASED TYPES OF ACCOUNTS ACCOUNTS MANAGED IN ACCOUNTS ADVISORY FEES ADVISORY FEES ----------------- ---------------- ------------ ----------------- ----------------- Registered Investment Companies -- -- -- -- Other Pooled Investment Vehicles -- -- -- -- Other Accounts 25 $886.5 mil 1 $37.7 mil |
GREGORY PAI
TOTAL ASSETS IN ACCOUNTS WITH ACCOUNTS WITH NUMBER OF OTHER TOTAL ASSETS PERFORMANCE-BASED PERFORMANCE-BASED TYPES OF ACCOUNTS ACCOUNTS MANAGED IN ACCOUNTS ADVISORY FEES ADVISORY FEES ----------------- ---------------- ------------ ----------------- ----------------- Registered Investment Companies -- -- -- -- Other Pooled Investment Vehicles -- -- -- -- Other Accounts 25 $886.5 mil 1 $37.7 mil |
Material Conflicts of Interest: Individual investment professionals at Paradigm Asset Management manage multiple portfolios for multiple clients. These accounts may include, but not be limited to, mutual funds, separate accounts (assets managed on behalf of institutions such as pension funds, insurance companies, foundations), bank common trust accounts, and hedge funds. The Investment Professionals generally manage portfolios in several different investment styles. These portfolios may have investment objectives, strategies, time horizons, tax considerations and risk profiles that differ from those of the fund. The Investment Professionals make investment decisions for the fund based on the investment objectives, policies, practices, benchmarks, cash flows, tax and other relevant investment considerations applicable to that portfolio. Consequently, the Investment Professionals may purchase or sell securities, including IPOs, for one portfolio and not another portfolio, and the performance of securities purchased for one portfolio may vary from the performance of securities purchased for other portfolios. An Investment Professional or other investment professionals at Paradigm Asset Management may place transactions on behalf of other accounts that are directly or indirectly contrary to investment decisions made on behalf of the fund, or make investment decisions that are similar to those made for the fund, both of which have the potential to adversely impact the fund depending on market conditions. For example, an Investment Professional may purchase a security in one portfolio while appropriately selling that same security in another portfolio. In addition, some of these portfolios have fee structures, including performance fees, that are or have the potential to be higher, in some cases significantly higher, than the fees paid by the fund to Paradigm Asset Management. Finally, the Investment Professionals may hold shares or investments in the other pooled investment vehicles and/or other accounts identified above.
Paradigm Asset Management's goal is to meet its fiduciary obligation to treat all clients fairly and provide high quality investment services to all of its clients. Paradigm Asset Management has adopted and implemented policies and procedures, including brokerage and trade allocation policies and procedures that it believes address the conflicts associated with managing multiple accounts for multiple clients. In addition, Paradigm Asset Management monitors a variety of areas, including compliance with primary Fund guidelines, the allocation of IPOs, and compliance with the firm's Code of Ethics. Paradigm Asset Management periodically assesses whether its Investment Professionals have adequate time and resources to effectively manage their various client mandates.
AS OF OCTOBER 31, 2006, THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OWNED THE FOLLOWING EQUITY SECURITIES IN THE FUNDS:
DOLLAR RANGE OF EQUITY SECURITIES AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF EQUITY NAME OF PORTFOLIO MANAGER IN MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS SECURITIES IN FUND COMPLEX (1) ------------------------- --------------------------------- -------------------------------- James E. Francis None None Jeffrey E. Marcus None None Gregory Pai None None |
(1) Fund Complex includes the Trust and the Ultra Series Fund, consisting of 13 portfolios
TRANSFER AGENT
Boston Financial Data Services (BFDS), 2000 Crown Colony Drive, Quincy, MA 02169, is the funds' transfer agent. Shareholders can reach a MEMBERS Mutual Funds representative at 1-800-877-6089. Shareholder inquiries and transaction requests should be sent to:
REGULAR MAIL: EXPRESS, CERTIFIED OR REGISTERED MAIL: MEMBERS Mutual Funds MEMBERS Mutual Funds P. O. Box 8390 c/o BFDS Boston, MA 02266-8390 30 Dan Road Canton, MA 02021-2809 |
CUSTODIAN
State Street Bank and Trust Company, 225 Franklin Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110 is the current custodian for the securities and cash of each fund. The custodian holds all securities and cash owned by each fund and receives all payments of income, payments of principal or capital distributions with respect to such securities for each fund. Also, the custodian receives payment for the shares issued by the Trust. The custodian releases and delivers securities and cash upon proper instructions from the Trust. Pursuant to and in furtherance of a Custody Agreement with the custodian, the custodian uses automated instructions and a cash data entry system to transfer monies to and from each fund's account at the custodian.
DISTRIBUTION
PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITER AND DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES
Shares of the Trust are offered continuously. CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. ("CBSI"), with its principal place of business at 5910 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53705, is the Trust's principal underwriter and distributor. CBSI is an affiliate of MEMBERS Capital Advisors, and is owned by CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation which in turn is owned by CUNA Mutual Insurance Society.
The shares are currently issued and redeemed through CBSI, pursuant to a Distribution Agreement between the Trust and CBSI. Shares of the Trust are purchased and redeemed at NAV (see "Net Asset Value of Shares" below). The Distribution Agreement provides that CBSI will use its best efforts to render services to the Trust, but in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its obligations, it will not be liable to the Trust or any shareholder for any error of judgment or mistake of law or any act or omission or for any losses sustained by the Trust or its shareholders.
DISTRIBUTION (12B-1) PLANS AND AGREEMENT
The Trust has entered into a Distribution Agreement with CBSI, the Trust's principal underwriter. Under the Distribution Agreement, CBSI is obligated to use its best efforts to sell shares of the Trust. Shares of the Trust may be sold by selected broker-dealers (the "Selling Brokers") which have entered into selling agency agreements with CBSI. CBSI accepts orders for the purchase of the shares of the Trust at NAV next determined plus any applicable sales charge. In connection with the sale of Class A or Class B shares of the Trust, CBSI and Selling Brokers receive compensation from a sales charge imposed, in the case of Class A shares, at the time of sale or, in the case of Class B shares, on a deferred basis. The sales charges are discussed further in the prospectus.
The Trust's Board of Trustees also adopted Distribution Plans with respect to
the Trust's Class A and Class B shares (the "Plans") pursuant to Rule 12b-1
under the 1940 Act. Under the Plans, the Trust will pay service fees for Class A
and Class B shares at an aggregate annual rate of 0.25% of each fund's daily net
assets attributable to the respective class of shares. The Trust will also pay
distribution fees for Class B shares at an aggregate annual rate of 0.75% of
each fund's daily net assets attributable to Class B. The distribution fees will
be used to reimburse CBSI for its distribution expenses with respect to Class B
shares only, including but not limited to: (i) initial and ongoing sales
compensation to Selling Brokers and others engaged in the sale of fund shares,
(ii) marketing, promotional and overhead expenses incurred in connection with
the distribution of fund shares, and (iii) interest expenses on unreimbursed
distribution expenses. The service fees will be used to compensate Selling
Brokers and others for providing personal and account maintenance services to
shareholders. In the event that CBSI is not fully reimbursed for expenses it
incurs under the Class B Plan in any fiscal year, CBSI may carry these expenses
forward, provided, however, that the Trustees may terminate the Class B Plan and
thus the Trust's obligation to make further payments at any time. Accordingly,
the Trust does not treat unreimbursed expenses relating to the Class B shares as
a liability.
The Plans were approved by the initial shareholder of the Trust. The Plans have also been approved annually by a majority of the Trustees, including a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plan (the "Independent Trustees"), by votes cast in person at meetings called for the purpose of voting on such Plans.
Pursuant to the Plans, at least quarterly, CBSI provides the Trust with a written report of the amounts expended under the Plans and the purpose for which these expenditures were made. The Trustees review these reports on a quarterly basis to determine their continued appropriateness.
The Plans provide that they continue in effect only so long as their continuance is approved at least annually by a majority of both the Trustees and the Independent Trustees. Each Plan provides that it may be terminated without penalty: (a) by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees; (b) by a vote of a majority of the votes attributable to the fund's outstanding shares of the applicable class in each case upon 60 days' written notice to CBSI; and (c) automatically in the event of assignment. Each of the Plans further provides that it may not be amended to increase the maximum amount of the fees for the services described therein without the approval of a majority of the votes attributable to the outstanding shares of the class of the Trust which has voting rights with respect to the Plan. And finally, each of the Plans provides that no material amendment to the Plan will, in any event, be effective unless it is approved by a majority vote of both the Trustees and the Independent Trustees of the Trust. The holders of Class A shares and Class B shares have exclusive voting rights with respect to the Plan applicable to their respective class of shares. In adopting the Plans, the Trustees concluded that, in their judgment, there is a reasonable likelihood that each Plan will benefit the holders of the applicable class of shares of the fund.
Amounts paid to CBSI by any class of shares of the Trust will not be used to pay the expenses incurred with respect to any other class of shares of the Trust; provided, however, that expenses attributable to the Trust as a whole will be allocated, to the extent permitted by law, according to a formula based upon gross sales dollars and/or average daily net assets of each such class, as may be approved from time to time.
BROKERAGE
MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers are responsible for: (1) decisions to buy and sell securities for each of the funds, (2) the selection of brokers and dealers to effect such transactions, and (3) the negotiation of brokerage commissions, if any, charged on such transactions.
Purchases and sales of securities on a securities exchange are affected through brokers who charge a negotiated commission for their services. Commission rates are established pursuant to negotiations with the broker based on the quality and quantity of execution services provided by the broker in the light of generally prevailing rates. The allocation of orders among brokers and the commission rates paid are reviewed periodically by the Board of Trustees.
In the over-the-counter market, securities are generally traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of a security usually includes a profit to the dealer. Where transactions are made in the over-the-counter market, the Trust will deal with the primary market makers unless equal or more favorable prices are otherwise obtainable. In underwritten offerings, securities are purchased at a fixed price that includes an amount of compensation to the underwriter, generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount. Securities purchased from dealers serving as market makers will include a spread between the bids and ask price, which is the amount of compensation to the dealer.
The Trust expects that purchases and sales of money market instruments usually will be principal transactions. Money market instruments are normally purchased directly from the issuer or from an underwriter or market maker for the securities. There usually will be no brokerage commissions paid for such purchases.
In effecting transactions in portfolio securities, MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers give primary consideration to obtaining best execution of orders at the most favorable prices. This means that MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers will seek to execute each transaction at a price and commission, if any, which provide the most favorable total cost or proceeds reasonably attainable under the circumstances.
The determination of what may constitute best execution and price in the execution of a securities transaction by a broker involves a number of considerations. Although MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers generally will seek reasonably competitive spreads or commissions, the funds do not necessarily pay the lowest commission available. In the selection of brokers and dealers to execute portfolio transactions, MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers are authorized to consider not only prices and rates of brokerage commissions, but also other relevant factors, including without limitation: (1) the overall direct net economic result (involving both price paid or received and any commissions and other costs paid), (2) the broker or dealer's execution capabilities, including its operational facilities, (3) the efficiency with which the transaction is effected, (4) the ability to effect the transaction where a large block of securities is involved, (5) the availability of the broker to stand ready to execute potentially difficult transactions in the future, (6) the financial strength and stability of the broker, (7) research, brokerage and other services provided by such broker or dealer when MEMBERS Capital Advisors or a subadviser believes that such services will enhance its general portfolio management capabilities, and (8) the risk to such broker or dealer of positioning a block of securities. Such considerations are judgmental and are weighed by MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers in determining the overall reasonableness of brokerage commissions paid.
With regard to (7) above, MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers may consider research and brokerage services provided by: brokers or dealers who effect, or are parties to, portfolio transactions of the funds. These research and brokerage services are those which brokerage houses customarily provide to institutional investors and include statistical and economic data and research reports on particular companies and industries. Any such research and brokerage services provided by brokers to the Trust or to MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers is considered to be in addition to and not in lieu of services required to be performed by MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers. Such services are used by MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers in connection with all of their investment activities, and some of such services obtained in connection with the execution of transactions for the funds may be used in managing other investment accounts. Conversely, brokers or dealers furnishing such services may be selected for the execution of transactions of other accounts, whose aggregate assets are far larger than those of the funds, and the services furnished by such brokers or dealers may be used by MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers in providing investment advisory services for the funds. Therefore, the correlation of the cost of research to MEMBERS Capital Advisors' individual clients, including the Trust, is indeterminable and cannot practically be allocated among the Trust and MEMBERS Capital Advisors' or the subadvisers' other clients.
In addition to the general research services described above, MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers may receive various specific research products and services which are paid for by directing a portion of commissions on specified transactions up to a specified amount for each service to be paid by the brokers handling the transactions to the vendors of the products. The commission rates on such transactions are sometimes higher than on transactions on which such research products and services are not received.
Consistent with the above, the Trust may effect principal transactions with a broker or dealer that furnishes brokerage or research services. MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers may also affect certain "riskless principal" transactions through certain dealers in the over-the-counter market under which commissions are paid on such transaction. Accordingly, the net prices or commission rates charged by any such broker or dealer may be greater than the amount another firm might charge if MEMBERS Capital Advisors or the subadviser determines in good faith that the amount of such net prices and commissions is reasonable in relation to the value of the services and research information provided by such broker-dealer to the Trust.
On occasions when MEMBERS Capital Advisors or a subadviser determines that the purchase or sale of a security is in the best interest of a fund as well as its other advisory clients (including any other fund or other advisory account for which MEMBERS Capital Advisors, the subadviser or an affiliate acts as investment adviser), MEMBERS Capital Advisors or the subadviser, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may aggregate the securities being sold or purchased for the fund with those being sold or purchased for such other customers in order to obtain the best net price and most favorable execution. In such event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, is made by MEMBERS Capital Advisors or a subadviser in the manner it considers to be most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to the fund and such other customers. In some instances, this procedure may adversely affect the price and size of the position obtainable for a fund. MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the subadvisers have established various policies and procedures that assure equitable treatment of all accounts. MEMBERS Capital Advisors or its subadvisers have established various policies and procedures that assure equitable treatment of all accounts.
The policy with respect to brokerage is and will be reviewed by the Trustees from time to time. Because of the possibility of further regulatory developments affecting the securities exchanges and brokerage practices generally, the foregoing practices may be changed, modified or eliminated without prior notice to shareholders.
PROXY VOTING POLICIES, PROCEDURES AND RECORDS
The Trust, on behalf of each of the funds, has adopted the proxy voting policies and procedures of MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the applicable subadvisers, the summaries of which may be found in Appendix A hereto. The policies and procedures are used to determine how to vote proxies relating to the funds' portfolio securities. Included in the policies and procedures are procedures that are used on behalf of each fund when a vote presents a conflict of interest between the interests of: (1) the fund's shareholders and (2) MEMBERS Capital Advisors, the fund's subadviser's (if any) and CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. ("CBSI"), the Trusts' principal underwriter.
Form N-PX, which contains the proxy voting records for each of the funds for the most recent twelve-month period, are available to shareholders at no cost on the funds' web site at www.membersfunds.com or the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov.
SELECTIVE DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The funds' portfolio holdings must be adequately protected to prevent the misuse of that information by a third party to the potential detriment of the shareholders. Accordingly, the funds have adopted, and the Board has approved, policies and procedures designed to ensure that the disclosure of the funds' portfolio holdings is in the best interest of the funds' shareholders in the manner described below. Various non-fund advisory clients of MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. ("MCA") may hold portfolio securities substantially similar to those held by the funds. Although MCA has also adopted policies and procedures regarding the selective disclosure of the contents of those other clients' portfolios and representative account portfolios, those policies and procedures may contain different procedures and limitations than the policies and procedures that apply to the disclosure of the funds' portfolio holdings.
The funds' portfolio holdings are made public, as required by law, in the Trust's annual and semi-annual reports. These reports are filed with the SEC and mailed to shareholders within 60 days after the end of the relevant fiscal period. In addition, as required by law, the funds' portfolio holdings as of fiscal quarter end are reported to the SEC within 60 days after the end of the funds' first and third fiscal quarters and are available to any interested person.
The funds' portfolio holdings information may be disseminated more frequently, or as of different periods, than as described above only when legitimate business purposes of the funds are served and the potential and actual conflicts of interest between the interests of fund shareholders and those of the funds' affiliates are reviewed and considered. Selective disclosures could be considered to serve the legitimate business purposes of the funds, if: (1) done to further the interests of the funds or (2) the disclosure is not expected to result in harm to the funds (such harm could occur by permitting third parties to trade ahead of, or front run, the funds or to effect trades in shares of the funds with information about portfolio holdings that other potential investors do not have). For example, the funds may provide portfolio holdings information to certain vendors that provide services that are important to the operations of the funds, or that assist MCA in providing services to the funds or in conducting its investment management business activities in general. Potential and actual conflicts of interest between the funds and their affiliates must also be reviewed and considered. For example, there may be situations where the disclosure facilitates portfolio management activities or the potential growth of the funds, which could legitimately serve the common interests of both the funds and MCA. However, selective disclosures should not be made for the benefit of MCA or its affiliates without also considering whether the disclosure would be in the interests of the funds or, at a minimum, result in no harm to the funds.
Currently, the funds' portfolio holdings information is disseminated in the manner set forth above as required by law, and as set forth below. Neither the Trust, nor MCA or its affiliates, may receive any compensation in connection with an arrangement to make available information about the funds' portfolio holdings. Each fund's top ten holdings are made public by publication on the Trust's website on a quarterly basis, 15 days after the end of the quarter.
The Trust may distribute, on a monthly basis, portfolio holdings to mutual fund evaluation services such as Morningstar or Lipper Analytical Services; due diligence departments of broker-dealers and wire houses that regularly analyze the portfolio holdings of mutual funds before their public disclosure; and broker-dealers that may be used by the Trust, for the purpose of efficient trading and receipt of relevant research, provided that (a) a minimum of 30 days has passed since the end of the applicable month and (b) the recipient does not regularly distribute the portfolio holdings to persons who are likely to use the information for purposes of purchasing or selling the funds before the information becomes public.
The portfolio holdings information of those investment portfolios of the Funds that only invest in fixed-income securities may, at the discretion of MCA or any applicable subadviser, provide month-end portfolio holdings information to broker-dealers with a three or four day lag. Such information will only be provided to those broker-dealers that enter into a form of a confidentiality agreement that has been approved by the Trust's CCO.
The funds may also disclose any and all portfolio information to their service providers and others who generally need access to such information in the performance of their contractual duties and responsibilities and are subject to duties of confidentiality, including a duty not to trade on non-public information, imposed by law and/or contract. These service providers include the funds' custodians, auditors, investment advisers, administrator, and each of their respective affiliates and advisers. Wellington Management discloses portfolio holdings to the following providers: Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. - corporate actions coordination and trade confirmations (daily); FactSet Research Systems, Inc.-analytics (daily); Investment Technology Group - analytics (weekly); ADP (formerly IRRC) - proxy voting (daily) and State Street Investment Manager Solutions - operational functions related to OTC derivative swap products (daily).
The funds and MCA will also periodically seek to determine whether any recipient of that portfolio information has effected transactions in fund shares, in an effort to monitor whether there has been any misuse of that information contrary to the conditions imposed on its use. However, such a monitoring effort is not likely to detect every misuse of that information, particularly if concealed in some fashion.
Any exceptions to the above disclosure rules must be pre-approved by the Trust's CCO. The Board shall, on an annual basis, receive a report detailing the recipients of the portfolio holdings information and the reason for such disclosures. There can be no assurance that the funds' policies and procedures on disclosure of portfolio holdings will protect the funds from misuse of such information by individuals or entities that come into possession of the information.
CODE OF ETHICS
The Trust has adopted a code of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act. The code of ethics covers the conduct (including the personal securities transactions) of each of the Trust's officers and trustees, as well as of any employees of MEMBERS Capital Advisors and the various Subadvisers, including those employees who participate in the selection of securities or who have access to information regarding the Trust's pending purchases and sales of securities (collectively referred to as "Covered Persons"). MEMBERS Capital Advisors also has adopted a code of ethics that covers the conduct and personal securities transactions of its officers, managers, and employees, including its Covered Persons. Likewise, CBSI, the principal underwriter of the Trust, has adopted a code of ethics covering the conduct and personal securities transactions of its officers, directors, and employees, including its Covered Persons.
In general, the codes of ethics restrict purchases or sales of securities being purchased or sold, or being considered for purchase or sale, by the Trust or by any Covered Persons of the Trust or MEMBERS Capital Advisors. More specifically, the codes restrict Covered Persons in their purchases of securities in an initial public offering and in private offerings of securities. The codes of ethics also establish certain "blackout periods" during which: (1) no Covered Person may acquire ownership of a security on a day during which the Trust has a pending order to purchase or sell that same security; and (2) no person responsible for day-to-day portfolio management of any fund may purchase or sell any security within seven days before or after the Trust purchases or sells the security. Certain specified transactions are exempt from the provisions of the codes of ethics.
HOW SECURITIES ARE OFFERED
SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest of the Trust without par value. Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees have the authority to create and classify shares of beneficial interest in separate series, without further action by shareholders. As of the date of this SAI, the Trustees have authorized shares of the nine funds described in the prospectus. Additional series and/or classes may be added in the future. The Declaration of Trust also authorizes the Trustees to classify and reclassify the shares of the Trust, or new series of the Trust, into one or more classes. As of the date of this SAI, the Trustees have authorized the issuance of four classes of shares, designated as Class A, Class B, Class D and Class Y. Additional classes of shares may be offered in the future. At this time, Class D shares have been authorized by the Trustees, but are not yet offered.
The shares of each class of each fund represent an equal proportionate interest in the aggregate net asset attributable to that class of that fund. Holders of Class A shares, Class B and Class Y shares have certain exclusive voting rights on matters relating to their respective class of shares. The different classes of a fund may bear different expenses relating to the cost of holding shareholder meetings necessitated by the exclusive voting rights of any class of shares.
Dividends paid by each fund, if any, with respect to each class of shares will be calculated in the same manner, at the same time and on the same day and will be in the same amount, except for differences resulting from the fact that: (1) the distribution and service fees relating to Class A and Class B shares will be borne exclusively by that class; (2) Class B shares will pay higher distribution and service fees than Class A shares; and (3) each of Class A shares, Class B and Class Y shares will bear any other class expenses properly allocable to such class of shares, subject to the requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service on funds having a multiple-class structure. Similarly, the NAV per share may vary depending on whether Class A shares, Class B shares or Class Y shares are purchased.
In the event of liquidation, shareholders of each class of each fund are entitled to share pro rata in the net assets of the class of the fund available for distribution to these shareholders. Shares entitle their holders to one vote per dollar value of shares, are freely transferable and have no preemptive, subscription or conversion rights. When issued, shares are fully paid and non-assessable, except as set forth below.
Share certificates will not be issued.
VOTING RIGHTS
Unless otherwise required by the 1940 Act or the Declaration of Trust, the Trust has no intention of holding annual meetings of shareholders. Fund shareholders may remove a Trustee by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the Trust's votes attributable to the outstanding shares and the Trustees shall promptly call a meeting for such purpose when requested to do so in writing by the record holders of not less than 10% of the votes attributable to the outstanding shares of the Trust. Shareholders may, under certain circumstances, communicate with other shareholders in connection with requesting a special meeting of shareholders. However, at any time that less than a majority of the Trustees holding office were elected by the shareholders, the Trustees will call a special meeting of shareholders for the purpose of electing Trustees.
LIMITATION OF SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY
Generally, Delaware statutory trust shareholders are not personally liable for obligations of the Delaware statutory trust under Delaware law. The Delaware Statutory Trust Act ("DSTA") provides that a shareholder of a Delaware statutory trust shall be entitled to the same limitation of liability extended to shareholders of private for-profit corporations. The Declaration expressly provides that the Trust has been organized under the DSTA and that the Declaration is to be governed by and interpreted in accordance with Delaware law. It is nevertheless possible that a Delaware statutory trust, such as the Trust, might become a party to an action in another state whose courts refuse to apply Delaware law, in which case the Trust's shareholders could possibly be subject to personal liability.
To guard against this risk, the Declaration: (1) contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Trust and provides that notice of such disclaimer may be given in each agreement, obligation and instrument entered into or executed by the Trust or its Trustees, (2) provides for the indemnification out of Trust property of any shareholders held personally liable for any obligations of the Trust or any fund, and (3) provides that the Trust shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the Trust and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss beyond his or her investment because of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which all of the following factors are present: (1) a court refuses to apply Delaware law; (2) the liability arose under tort law or, if not, no contractual limitation of liability was in effect; and (3) the Trust itself would be unable to meet its obligations. In the light of DSTA, the nature of the Trust's business, and the nature of its assets, the risk of personal liability to a shareholder is remote.
LIMITATION OF TRUSTEE AND OFFICER LIABILITY
The Declaration further provides that the Trust shall indemnify each of its Trustees and officers against liabilities and expenses reasonably incurred by them, in connection with, or arising out of, any action, suit or proceeding, threatened against or otherwise involving such Trustee or officer, directly or indirectly, by reason of being or having been a Trustee or officer of the Trust. The Declaration does not authorize the Trust to indemnify any Trustee or officer against any liability to which he or she would otherwise be subject by reason of or for willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of such person's duties.
LIMITATION OF INTER-SERIES LIABILITY
All persons dealing with a fund must look solely to the property of that particular fund for the enforcement of any claims against that fund, as neither the Trustees, officers, agents nor shareholders assume any personal liability for obligations entered into on behalf of a fund or the Trust. No fund is liable for the obligations of any other fund. Since the funds use a combined prospectus, however, it is possible that one fund might become liable for a misstatement or omission in the prospectus regarding another fund with which its disclosure is combined. The Trustees have considered this factor in approving the use of the combined prospectus.
NET ASSET VALUE OF SHARES
The NAV per share for all classes of shares is calculated as of 3:00 p.m. Central Time on each day on which the New York Stock Exchange is open for business. NAV per share is determined by dividing each fund's total net assets by the number of shares of such fund outstanding at the time of calculation. Total net assets are determined by adding the total current value of portfolio securities (including shares of other investment companies), cash, receivables, and other assets and subtracting liabilities. Shares will be sold and redeemed at the NAV per share next determined after receipt in good order of the purchase order or request for redemption.
PORTFOLIO VALUATION
Securities and other investments are valued as follows. Equity securities and exchange traded funds listed on any U.S. or foreign stock exchange or quoted on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System ("NASDAQ") are valued at the last quoted sale price or official closing price on that exchange or NASDAQ on the valuation day (provided that, for securities traded on NASDAQ, the funds utilize the NASDAQ Official Closing Price ("NOCP")). If no sale occurs, (a) equities traded on a U.S. exchange or on NASDAQ are valued at the mean between the closing bid and closing asked prices (where only bid price and asked price is quoted, or the spread between bid and asked prices is substantial, quotations for a several-day period are used to establish value) and (b) equity securities traded on a foreign exchange are valued at the official bid price. Debt securities purchased with a remaining maturity of 61 days or more are valued by a pricing service selected by the Trust or on the basis of dealer-supplied quotations. Short-term instruments having maturities of 60 days or less and all securities in the Cash Reserves Fund are valued on an amortized cost basis.
Over-the-counter securities not quoted on NASDAQ are valued at the last sale price on the valuation day. If no sale occurs on the valuation day, an over-the-counter security is valued at the mean between the last bid and asked prices. Over-the-counter options are valued based upon prices provided by market makers in such securities or dealers in such currencies. Financial futures contracts generally are valued at the settlement price established by the exchange(s) on which the contracts are primarily traded. The Investment Adviser's Securities Valuation Committee (the "Committee") shall estimate the fair value of futures positions affected by the daily limit by using its valuation procedures for determining fair value, when necessary. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts are valued based on quotations supplied by dealers in such contracts.
The value of all assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies will be converted into U.S. dollar values at the noon (Eastern Time) Reuters spot rate. All other securities for which either quotations are not readily available, no other sales have occurred, or do not, in the Investment Advisors' opinion, reflect the current market value are appraised at their fair values as determined in good faith by the Investment Advisor and
under the general supervision of the Board of Trustees.
A fund's investments will be valued at fair value if in the judgment of the Committee an event impacting the value of an investment occurred between the closing time of a security's primary market or exchange (for example, a foreign exchange or market) and the time the fund's share price is calculated. Significant events may include, but are not limited to the following: (1) significant fluctuations in domestic markets, foreign markets or foreign currencies; (2) occurrences not directly tied to the securities markets such as natural disasters, armed conflicts or significant government actions; and (3) major announcements affecting a single issuer or an entire market or market sector. In responding to a significant event, the Committee would determine the fair value of affected securities considering factors including, but not limited to: index options and futures traded subsequent to the close; ADRs, GDRs or other related receipts; currency spot or forward markets that trade after pricing or foreign exchange; other derivative securities traded after the close such as WEBs and SPDRs. The Committee may rely on an independent fair valuation service to adjust the valuations of foreign equity securities based on specific market-movement parameters established by the Committee and approved by the Trust.
DIVIDENDS, DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
It is the intention of the Trust to distribute substantially all of the net investment income, if any, of each fund thereby avoiding the imposition of any fund-level income or excise tax as follows:
(i) Dividends of ordinary income, if any, from the SMALL CAP VALUE and SMALL CAP GROWTH FUNDS will be declared and reinvested annually in additional full and fractional shares of the respective fund, unless otherwise directed; and
(ii) All net realized short-term and long-term capital gains of each fund, if any, will be declared and distributed at least annually, but in any event, no more frequently than allowed under Commission rules, to the shareholders of each fund to which such gains are attributable.
FEDERAL TAX STATUS OF THE FUNDS
The following discussion of the federal tax status of the funds is a general and abbreviated summary based on tax laws and regulations in effect on the date of this statement of additional information. Tax law is subject to change by legislative, administrative or judicial action.
Qualification as Regulated Investment Company
Each fund is treated as a separate taxpayer for federal income tax purposes. The Trust intends for each fund to elect to be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of Chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and to qualify as a regulated investment company each year. If a fund: (1) continues to qualify as a regulated investment company, and (2) distributes to its shareholders at least 90% of its investment company taxable income (including for this purpose its net ordinary investment income and realized net short-term capital gains) and 90% of its tax-exempt interest income (reduced by certain expenses) (the "90% distribution requirement"), which the Trust intends each fund to do, then under the provisions of Subchapter M of the Code the fund should have little or no liability for federal income taxes. In particular, a fund will not be subject to federal income tax on the portion of its investment company taxable income and net capital gain (i.e., realized net long-term capital gain in excess of realized net short-term capital loss) it distributes to shareholders (or treats as having been distributed to shareholders).
Each fund generally will endeavor to distribute (or treat as deemed distributed) to shareholders all of its investment company taxable income and its net capital gain, if any, for each taxable year so that it will not incur federal income taxes on its earnings.
A fund must meet several requirements to maintain its status as a regulated investment company. These requirements include the following: (1) at least 90% of its gross income for each taxable year must be derived from (a) dividends, interest, payments with respect to loaned securities, gains from the sale or disposition of securities (including gains from related investments in foreign currencies), and other income (including gains from options, futures or forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such securities or currencies, and (b) net income derived from an interest in a "qualified publicly traded partnership" and (2) at the close of each quarter of the fund's taxable year, (a) at least 50% of the value of the fund's total assets must consist of cash, cash items, securities of other regulated investment companies, U.S. Government securities and other securities (provided that no more than 5% of the value of the fund may consist of such other securities of any one issuer, and the fund may not hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any issuer), and (b) the fund must not invest more than 25% of its total assets in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. Government securities or the securities of other regulated investment companies), the securities of two or more issuers that are controlled by the fund and that are engaged in the same or similar trades or businesses or related trades or businesses, or the securities of one or more "qualified publicly traded partnerships."
If for any taxable year a fund fails to qualify as a regulated investment company or fails to satisfy the 90% distribution requirement, then all of its taxable income becomes subject to federal, and possibly state, income tax at regular corporate rates (without any deduction for distributions to its shareholders) and distributions to its shareholders constitute ordinary income (including dividends derived from interest on tax-exempt obligations) to the extent of such fund's available earnings and profits.
Distributions to Avoid Federal Excise Tax
A regulated investment company generally must distribute in each calendar year an amount equal to at least the sum of: (1) 98% of its ordinary taxable income for the year, (2) 98% of its capital gain net income for the 12 months ended on October 31 of that calendar year, and (3) any ordinary income or net capital gain income not distributed for prior years (the "excise tax avoidance requirements"). To the extent that a regulated investment company fails to do this, it is subject to a 4% nondeductible federal excise tax on undistributed earnings. Therefore, in order to avoid the federal excise tax, each fund must make (and the Trust intends that each will make) the foregoing distributions.
Investments in Foreign Securities
Investment income received from sources within foreign countries, or capital gains earned by a fund investing in securities of foreign issuers, may be subject to foreign income taxes withheld at the source. In this regard, withholding tax rates in countries with which the United States does not have a tax treaty are often as high as 35% or more. The United States has entered into tax treaties with many foreign countries that may entitle a fund to a reduced rate of tax or exemption from tax on this related income and gains. The effective rate of foreign tax cannot be determined at this time since the amount of a fund's assets to be invested within various countries is not now known. The Trust intends that each fund will operate so as to qualify for applicable treaty-reduced rates of tax.
If a fund qualifies as a regulated investment company under the Code, and if more than 50% of the fund's total assets at the close of the taxable year consists of securities of foreign corporations, then the Trust may elect, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, to treat foreign income taxes paid by the fund (including certain withholding taxes that can be treated as income taxes under U.S. income tax principles) as paid by its shareholders. The International Stock Fund anticipates that it may qualify for and make this election in most, but not necessarily all, of its taxable years. If a fund makes such an election, an amount equal to the foreign income taxes paid by the fund would be included in the income of its shareholders and the shareholders often would be entitled to credit their portions of this amount against their U.S. tax liabilities, if any, or to deduct those portions from their U.S. taxable income, if any. Shortly after any year for which it makes such an election for a fund, the Trust will report to the shareholders of the fund, in writing, the amount per share of foreign tax that must be included in each shareholder's gross income and the amount that will be available as a deduction or credit. Certain limitations based on the unique tax situation of a shareholder may apply to limit the extent to which the credit or the deduction for foreign taxes may be claimed by such shareholder.
If a fund acquires stock in certain foreign corporations that receive at least 75% of their annual gross income from passive sources (such as interest, dividends, rents, royalties or capital gain) or hold at least 50% of their total assets in investments producing such passive income ("passive foreign investment companies"), that fund could be subject to federal income tax and additional interest charges on "excess distributions" received from such companies or gain from the sale of stock in such companies, even if all income or gain actually received by the fund is timely distributed to its shareholders. The fund would not be able to pass through to its shareholders any credit or deduction for such a tax. Certain elections may, if available, ameliorate these adverse tax consequences, but any such election requires the applicable fund to recognize taxable income or gain without the concurrent receipt of cash. Any fund that acquires stock in foreign corporations may limit and/or manage its holdings in passive foreign investment companies to minimize its tax liability.
Foreign exchange gains and losses realized by a fund in connection with certain transactions involving non-dollar debt securities, certain foreign currency futures contracts, foreign currency option contracts, foreign currency forward contracts, foreign currencies, or payables or receivables denominated in a foreign currency are subject to Code provisions that generally treat such gains and losses as ordinary income and losses and may affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders. Any such transactions that are not directly related to a fund's investment in securities (possibly including speculative currency positions or currency derivatives not used for hedging purposes) could, under future Treasury regulations, produce income not among the types of "qualifying income" from which the fund must derive at least 90% of its annual gross income.
Investments with Original Issue Discount
Each fund that invests in certain payment-in-kind instruments, zero coupon securities or certain deferred interest securities (and, in general, any other securities with original issue discount or with market discount if the fund elects to include market discount in current income) must accrue income on such investments prior to the receipt of the corresponding cash. However, because each fund must meet the 90% distribution requirement to qualify as a regulated investment company, a fund may have to dispose of its portfolio investments under disadvantageous circumstances to generate cash, or may have to leverage itself by borrowing the cash, to satisfy distribution requirements.
Options, Futures, and Swaps
A fund's transactions in options contracts and futures contracts are subject to special provisions of the Code that, among other things, may affect the character of gains and losses realized by the fund (that is, may affect whether gains or losses are ordinary or capital), accelerate recognition of income to the fund and defer losses of the fund. These rules (1) could affect the character, amount and timing of distributions to shareholders of a fund, (2) could require the fund to "mark to market" certain types of the positions in its portfolio (that is, treat them as if they were closed out) and (3) may cause the fund to recognize income without receiving cash with which to make distributions in amounts necessary to satisfy the 90% distribution requirement and the excise tax avoidance requirements described above. To mitigate the effect of these rules and prevent disqualification of a fund as a regulated investment company, the Trust seeks to monitor transactions of each fund, seeks to make the appropriate tax elections on behalf of each fund and seeks to make the appropriate entries in each fund's books and records when the fund acquires any option, futures contract or hedged investment.
The federal income tax rules applicable to interest rate swaps, caps and floors are unclear in certain respects, and a fund may be required to account for these transactions in a manner that, in certain circumstances, may limit the degree to which it may utilize these transactions.
SHAREHOLDER TAXATION
The following discussion of certain federal income tax issues of shareholders of the funds is a general and abbreviated summary based on tax laws and regulations in effect on the date of this statement of additional information. Tax law is subject to change by legislative, administrative or judicial action. The following discussion relates solely to U.S. federal income tax law as applicable to U.S. taxpayers (e.g., U.S. residents and U.S. domestic corporations, partnerships, trusts or estates). The discussion does not address special tax rules applicable to certain classes of investors, such as qualified retirement accounts or trusts, tax-exempt entities, insurance companies, banks and other financial institutions or to non-U.S. taxpayers. Dividends, capital gain distributions, and ownership of or gains realized on the redemption (including an exchange) of the
shares of a fund may also be subject to state, local and foreign taxes. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisers as to the federal, state, local or foreign tax consequences of ownership of shares of, and receipt of distributions from, the Funds in their particular circumstances.
Distributions
Distributions of a fund's investment company taxable income are taxable as ordinary income to shareholders to the extent of the fund's current or accumulated earnings and profits, whether paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares. Any distribution of a fund's net capital gain properly designated by a fund as "capital gain dividends" is taxable to a shareholder as long-term capital gain regardless of a shareholder's holding period for his, her or its shares and regardless of whether paid in cash or reinvested in additional shares. Distributions, if any, in excess of earnings and profits usually constitute a return of capital, which first reduces an investor's tax basis in a fund's shares and thereafter (after such basis is reduced to zero) generally gives rise to capital gains. Shareholders electing to receive distributions in the form of additional shares have a cost basis for federal income tax purposes in each share so received equal to the amount of cash they would have received had they elected to receive the distributions in cash.
At the Trust's option, the Trust may cause a fund to retain some or all of its net capital gain for a tax year, but designate the retained amount as a "deemed distribution." In that case, among other consequences, the fund pays tax on the retained amount for the benefit of its shareholders, the shareholders are required to report their share of the deemed distribution on their tax returns as if it had been distributed to them, and the shareholders may report a credit for the tax paid thereon by the fund. The amount of the deemed distribution net of such tax is added to the shareholder's cost basis for his, her or its shares. Since the Trust expects a fund to pay tax on any retained net capital gain at its regular corporate capital gain tax rate, and since that rate is in excess of the maximum rate currently payable by individuals on long-term capital gain, the amount of tax that individual shareholders are treated as having paid will exceed the amount of tax that such shareholders would be required to pay on the retained net capital gains. A shareholder that is not subject to U.S. federal income tax or tax on long-term capital gains should be able to file a return on the appropriate form or a claim for refund that allows such shareholder to recover the taxes paid on his, her or its behalf. In the event the Trust chooses this option on behalf of a fund, the Trust must provide written notice to the shareholders prior to the expiration of 60 days after the close of the relevant tax year.
Any dividend declared by a fund in October, November, or December of any calendar year, payable to shareholders of record on a specified date in such a month and actually paid during January of the following year, is treated as if it had been received by the shareholders on December 31 of the year in which the dividend was declared.
Buying a Dividend
An investor should consider the tax implications of buying shares just prior to a distribution. Even if the price of the shares includes the amount of the forthcoming distribution, the shareholder generally will be taxed upon receipt of the distribution and is not entitled to offset the distribution against the tax basis in his, her or its shares. In addition, an investor should be aware that, at the time he, she or it purchases shares of a fund, a portion of the purchase price is often attributable to realized or unrealized appreciation in the fund's portfolio or undistributed taxable income of the fund. Subsequent distributions from such appreciation or income may be taxable to such investor even if the net asset value of the investor's shares is, as a result of the distributions, reduced below the investor's cost for such shares, and the distributions in reality represent a return of a portion of the purchase price.
Qualified Dividend Income
Non-corporate shareholders may be eligible to treat a portion of a fund's ordinary income dividends as "qualified dividend income" that is subject to tax at the same reduced maximum rates applicable to long-term capital gains; corporations are not eligible for the reduced maximum rates on qualified dividend income. The Trust must designate the portion of any distributions by a fund that are eligible to be treated as qualified dividend income in a written notice within 60 days of the close of the relevant taxable year. In general, the maximum amount of distributions by a fund that may be designated as qualified dividend income for that taxable year is the total amount of qualified dividend income received by that fund during such year. If the qualified dividend income received by a fund is equal to 95% (or a greater percentage) of the fund's gross income (exclusive of net capital gain) in any taxable year, all of the ordinary income dividends paid by the fund will be qualified dividend income. In order to constitute qualified dividend income to the fund, a dividend must be received from a U.S. domestic corporation (other than dividends from tax-exempt corporations and certain dividends from real estate investment trusts and other regulated investment companies) or a qualified foreign corporation. In addition, the dividend must be paid in respect of the stock that has been held by the fund, for federal income tax purposes, for at least 60 days during the 121-day period that begins 61 days before the stock becomes ex-dividend. In order to be eligible to treat a dividend from a fund as qualified dividend income, non-corporate shareholders must also meet the foregoing minimum holding period requirements with respect to their shares of the applicable Fund.
Dividends-Received Deduction
The Trust's ordinary income dividends to corporate shareholders may, if certain conditions are met, qualify for the dividends-received deduction to the extent that the Trust has received qualifying dividend income during the taxable year; capital gain dividends distributed by the Trust are not eligible for the dividends-received deduction. In order to constitute a qualifying dividend, a dividend must be from a U.S. domestic corporation in respect of the stock of such corporation that has been held by the Fund, for federal income tax purposes, for at least 46 days during the 91-day period that begins 45 days before the stock becomes ex-dividend (or, in the case of preferred stock, 91 days during the 181-day period that begins 90 days before the stock becomes ex-dividend). The Trust must also designate the portion of any distribution that is eligible for the dividends-received deduction in a written notice within 60 days of the close of the relevant taxable year. In addition, in order to be eligible to claim the dividends-received deduction with respect to distributions from a fund, corporate shareholders must meet the foregoing minimum holding period requirements with respect to their shares of the applicable fund. If a corporation borrows to acquire shares of a fund, it may be denied a portion of the dividends-received deduction it would otherwise be eligible to claim. The entire qualifying dividend, including the otherwise deductible amount, is included in determining the excess (if any) of a corporate shareholder's adjusted current earnings over its
alternative minimum taxable income, which may increase its alternative minimum tax liability. Additionally, any corporate shareholder should consult its tax adviser regarding the possibility that its basis in its shares may be reduced, for federal income tax purposes, by reason of "extraordinary dividends" received with respect to the shares, for the purpose of computing its gain or loss on redemption or other disposition of the shares.
Gains and Losses on Redemptions
A shareholder generally recognizes taxable gain or loss on a sale or redemption (including by exercise of the exchange privilege) of his, her or its shares. The amount of the gain or loss is measured by the difference between the shareholder's adjusted tax basis in his, her or its shares and the amount of the proceeds received in exchange for such shares. Any gain or loss arising from (or, in the case of distributions in excess of earnings and profits, treated as arising from) the sale or redemption of shares generally is a capital gain or loss. This capital gain or loss normally is treated as a long-term capital gain or loss if the shareholder has held his, her or its shares for more than one year at the time of such sale or redemption; otherwise, it generally will be classified as short-term capital gain or loss. If, however, a shareholder receives a capital gain dividend with respect to any share of a fund, and if the share is sold before it has been held by the shareholder for at least six months, then any loss on the sale or exchange of the share, to the extent of the capital gain dividend, is treated as a long-term capital loss.
In addition, all or a portion of any loss realized upon a taxable disposition of
shares may be disallowed if other shares of the same fund are purchased
(including any purchase through a reinvestment of distributions from the fund)
within 30 days before or after the disposition. In such a case, the basis of the
shares acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss. Also, if a
shareholder who incurred a sales charge on the acquisition of shares of a fund
sells his, her or its shares within 90 days of purchase and subsequently
acquires shares of another fund of the Trust on which a sales charge normally is
imposed without paying such sales charge in accordance with the exchange
privilege described in the prospectuses, such shareholder will not be entitled
to include the amount of the sales charge in his, her or its basis in the shares
sold for purposes of determining gain or loss. In these cases, any gain on the
disposition of the shares of the fund is increased, or loss decreased, by the
amount of the sales charge paid when the shares were acquired, and that amount
will increase the adjusted basis of the shares of the fund subsequently
acquired.
Long-Term Capital Gains
In general, non-corporate shareholders currently are subject to a maximum federal income tax rate of 15% (or 5% in the case of individual investors who are in the 10% or 15% tax bracket) on their net long-term capital gain (the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss) for a taxable year (including a long-term capital gain derived from an investment in the shares), while other income may be taxed at rates as high as 35%. Corporate taxpayers currently are subject to federal income tax on net capital gain at the maximum 35% rate also applied to ordinary income. Tax rates imposed by states and local jurisdictions on capital gain and ordinary income may differ.
Deduction of Capital Losses
Non-corporate shareholders with net capital losses for a year (i.e., capital losses in excess of capital gains) generally may deduct up to $3,000 of such losses against their ordinary income each year; any net capital losses of a non-corporate shareholder in excess of $3,000 generally may be carried forward and used in subsequent years as provided in the Code. Corporate shareholders generally may not deduct any net capital losses for a year, but may carryback such losses for three years or carry forward such losses for five years.
Reports to Shareholders
The Trust sends to each of its shareholders, as promptly as possible after the end of each calendar year, a notice detailing, on a per share and per distribution basis, the amounts includible in such shareholder's taxable income for such year as ordinary income (including any portion eligible to be treated as qualified dividend income or to be deducted pursuant to the dividends-received deduction) and as long-term capital gain. In addition, the federal tax status of each year's distributions generally is reported to the IRS.
Backup Withholding
The Trust may be required to withhold U.S. federal income tax ("backup withholding") at a rate of 28% from all taxable distributions payable to: (1) any shareholder who fails to furnish the Trust with his, her or its correct taxpayer identification number or a certificate that the shareholder is exempt from backup withholding, and (2) any shareholder with respect to whom the IRS notifies the Trust that the shareholder has failed to properly report certain interest and dividend income to the IRS and to respond to notices to that effect. The backup withholding is not an additional tax and may be returned or credited against a taxpayer's regular federal income tax liability if appropriate information is provided to the IRS.
MORE ABOUT PURCHASING AND SELLING SHARES
The following discussion expands upon the section entitled "Your Account" in the prospectus.
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
The Trustees reserve the right to change or waive the fund's minimum investment requirements and to reject any order to purchase shares (including any purchase by exchange) when in the judgment of the Investment Adviser such rejection is in the fund's best interest.
OFFERING PRICE
Shares of each fund are offered at a price equal to their NAV next determined after receipt in good order of the purchase order for such shares (see "Net Asset Value of Shares" below) plus a sales charge which, depending upon the class of shares purchased, may be imposed either at the time of purchase (Class A shares) or on a contingent deferred basis (Class B shares).
CALCULATION OF THE SALES CHARGE
The sales charge percentage that you pay may be higher or lower than what is disclosed in the prospectus due to standard industry practice to round the public offering price to two decimal places (i.e., to the nearest penny) and rounding the number of shares purchased to three decimal places.
For example, assume that you purchased $10,000 of the Small Cap Value Fund Class
A.
PROSPECTUS SALES CHARGE: 5.75%
NAV: $10.04
Offering Price: $10.65 [calculated as $10.04/(1-0.0575) = $10.652519 which
rounds to $10.65]
Shares Purchased: 938.967 ($10,000/$10.65 = 938.96713 which rounds to
938.967)
Account Balance: 938.967 x $10.04 (NAV) = $9,427.22
STATEMENT AND CONFIRM SALES CHARGE:
$10,000 - $9,427.22 = $572.78
$572.78/$10,000 = 5.727%, which rounds to 5.73%
INITIAL SALES CHARGE ON CLASS A SHARES
Class A shares are offered at a price that includes an initial "front-end" sales charge that is deducted from your investment at the time you purchase shares. Depending upon the amount you invest, the sales charge may be reduced and or eliminated for larger purchases. The sales charges applicable to purchases of Class A shares of the Trust are described in the prospectus.
Class A shares may be offered without front-end sales charges to various individuals and institutions, or issued or purchased in specific transactions as described in the prospectus. Class A shares may also be offered without a front-end sales charge pursuant to the funds' reinstatement or reinvestment privilege (see "Other Investor Services").
In addition, there are several ways investors may combine multiple purchases to reduce Class A sales charges as disclosed in the prospectus and further described below.
RIGHTS OF COMBINATION. Purchases may be combined to reduce Class A sales charges if made by:
- you and your immediate family for your own account(s), including individual retirement, custodial and personal trust accounts;
- a trustee or other fiduciary purchasing for a single trust, estate or fiduciary account; and
- groups which qualify for the Group Investment Program.
GROUP INVESTMENT PROGRAM. Certain qualified pension plans or non-qualified group investment plan participants may be eligible for rights of combination. This would include a 401k plan with less than $250,000 in assets, and 457(b) or 457(f) plans.
RIGHTS OF ACCUMULATION. For the purpose of calculating the sales charge on Class shares, you may add the current market value of your existing holdings in any fund and class of shares of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds (including combinations), to the amount of your next purchase of Class A shares to qualify for reduced sales charges. The current value of existing individual holdings, as of the week prior to your investment, in your MEMBERS variable annuity contract may also be taken into account to determine your Class A sales charges.
LETTER OF INTENT. The reduced sales charges are also applicable to investments made pursuant to a Letter of Intention ("LOI"), which should be read carefully prior to its execution by an investor, pursuant to which investors make their investment over a specified period of thirteen (13) months. Such an investment (including accumulations and combinations) must aggregate at least $25,000 or more if investing in equity funds or at least $50,000 or more if investing in bond funds during the 13-month period from the date of the LOI or from a date within ninety (90) days prior thereto, upon written request to MEMBERS Mutual Funds. The sales charge applicable to all amounts invested under the LOI is computed as if the aggregate amount intended to be invested had been invested immediately. If such aggregate amount is not actually invested, excluding reinvested dividends and capital gains, the difference in the sales charge actually paid and the sales charge payable had the LOI not been in effect is due from the investor. However, for the purchases actually made within the 13-month period, the sales charge applicable will not be higher than that which would have applied (including accumulations and combinations) had the LOI been for the amount actually invested.
The LOI authorizes MEMBERS Mutual Funds to hold in escrow sufficient Class A shares (approximately 5% of the purchase) to make up any difference in sales charges on the amount intended to be invested and the amount actually invested, until such investment is completed within the specified period, at which time the escrow shares will be released. If the total investment specified in the LOI is not completed, the Class A shares held in escrow may be redeemed and the proceeds used as required to pay such sales charge as may be due. By signing the LOI, the investor authorizes MEMBERS Mutual Funds to act as the investor's attorney-in-fact to redeem any escrowed shares and adjust the sales charge, if necessary. A LOI does not constitute a binding commitment by an investor to purchase, or by the Trust to sell, any additional shares and may be terminated at any time.
In order to ensure that you receive a reduction or waiver of your Class A sales charge, you need to inform your financial representative or MEMBERS Mutual Funds at the time you purchase shares that you qualify for such a reduction or waiver. If notification is not provided, you may not receive the sales charge discount or waiver to which you are otherwise entitled. MEMBERS Mutual Funds may require evidence, including account statements of all relevant accounts invested in the MEMBERS Mutual Funds and reserves the right to request additional documentation, to verify you are eligible for a reduction or waiver of sales charges.
DEFERRED SALES CHARGE ON CLASS B SHARES
Investments in Class B shares are purchased at their NAV per share without the imposition of an initial sales charge so the fund will receive the full amount of the purchase payment. The funds' distributor pays a commission equal to 4% of the amount invested to broker/dealers who sell Class B shares.
Class B shares that are redeemed within six years of purchase will be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC") at the rates set forth in the prospectus. The amount of the CDSC, if any, will vary depending on the number of years from time of purchase until the time of redemption, and will be calculated using the methodology described in the prospectus. A hypothetical example is provided in the prospectus for further clarification.
Unless otherwise requested, redemption requests will be "grossed up" by the amount of any applicable CDSC charge and/or transaction charges such that the investor will receive the net amount requested.
Proceeds from the CDSC are paid to CBSI and are used in whole or in part by CBSI to defray its expenses related to providing distribution-related services to the Trust in connection with the sale of the Class B shares, such as the payment of the 4% commission to broker/dealers who sell Class B shares. The combination of the CDSC, the distribution, and service fees facilitates the ability of the Trust to sell the Class B shares without a sales charge being deducted at the time of the purchase.
WAIVER OF CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE. The CDSC may be waived on redemptions of Class B shares. The chart that follows is a restatement of the waivers found in the prospectus.
CLASS B CDSC WAIVER CHART
ERISA PLANS NON-ERISA PLANS -------------- -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 401(A) PLAN, TYPE OF 401(K) PLAN OR SUPPLEMENTAL IRA OR NON-RETIREMENT DISTRIBUTION 403(B) PLAN 403(B) PLAN 457 PLAN IRA ROLLOVER PLAN ------------ -------------- ------------ -------- ------------ -------------- Death or Disability Waived Waived Waived Waived Waived Over 70 1/2 Waived Waived Waived Waived for Waived for up to mandatory 12% of account distributions or value annually up to 12% of in periodic account value payments annually in periodic payments Between Waived Waived Waived Waived for Life Waived for up to 59 1/2 and 70 1/2 Expectancy or up 12% of account to 12% of value annually account value in periodic annually in payments periodic payments Under 59 1/2 Waived Waived for Waived for Waived for Waived for up to annuity payments annuity payments annuity payments 12% of account (72t) or up to (72t) or up to (72t) or up to value annually 12% of account 12% of account 12% of account in periodic value annually value annually value annually payments in periodic in periodic in periodic payments payments payments Loans Waived Waived N/A N/A N/A Termination of Plan Not Waived Not Waived Not Waived Not Waived N/A Hardships Waived Waived Waived N/A N/A Return of Excess Waived Waived Waived Waived N/A |
In order to ensure you receive a waiver of the CDSC on redemption of your Class B shares, you need to notify your financial representative or MEMBERS Mutual Funds that you qualify for such a waiver at the time you redeem the shares. If notice is not provided, you may not receive the waiver to which you are otherwise entitled. MEMBERS Mutual Funds may require evidence, and reserves the right to request additional documentation, to verify you are eligible for a waiver of sales charges.
SPECIAL REDEMPTIONS
Although no fund would normally do so, each fund has the right to pay the redemption price of shares of the fund in whole or in part in portfolio securities held by the fund as prescribed by the Trustees. If the shareholder were to sell portfolio securities received in this fashion, the shareholder would incur a brokerage charge. Any such securities would be valued for the purposes of making such payment, at the same value as used in determining NAV. The Trust has, however, elected to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the 1940 Act. Under that rule, each fund must redeem its shares for cash except to the extent that the redemption payments to any shareholder during any 90-day period would exceed the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the fund's NAV at the beginning of such period.
ADDITIONAL INVESTOR SERVICES
The following discussion expands upon the section entitled "Additional Investor Services" in the prospectus.
SYSTEMATIC INVESTMENT PROGRAM
As explained in the prospectus, the Trust makes available to shareholders a systematic investment program. The investments under the program will be drawn on or about the day of the month indicated by the shareholder. Any shareholder's privilege of making investments through the systematic investment program may be revoked by the Trust without prior notice if any investment by the shareholder is not honored by the shareholder's credit union or other financial institution. The program may be discontinued by the shareholder either by calling MEMBERS Mutual Funds or upon written notice to MEMBERS Mutual Funds which is received at least five (5) business days prior to the due date of any investment.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PROGRAM
As explained in the prospectus, the Trust makes available to shareholders a systematic withdrawal program. Payments under this program represent proceeds arising from the redemption of fund shares. The maintenance of a systematic withdrawal program concurrently with purchases of additional shares of the fund could be disadvantageous to a shareholder because of the sales charges that may be imposed on new purchases. Therefore, a shareholder should not purchase shares of a fund at the same time as a systematic withdrawal program is in effect for such shareholder with respect to that fund. The Trust reserves the right to modify or discontinue the systematic withdrawal program for any shareholder on 30 days' prior written notice to such shareholder, or to discontinue the availability of such plan to all shareholders in the future. Any shareholder may terminate the program at any time by giving proper notice to MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE AND SYSTEMATIC EXCHANGE PROGRAM
As explained in the prospectus, within an account, you may exchange shares of one fund for shares of the same class of another fund, without paying any additional sales charge; however, in certain circumstances you may be charged a 2% redemption fee on the value of the shares exchanged pursuant to the fund's redemption fee policy. With the exception of the Cash Reserves Fund, a portfolio of the Trust offered through a separate prospectus, only five (5) exchanges are allowed per fund in a calendar year. If you establish a systematic exchange program, those exchanges are not included in the exchange limit policy. Class B shares will continue to "age" from the date of purchase of the original fund and will retain the same CDSC rate as they had before the exchange.
The funds reserve the right to require that previously exchanged shares (and reinvested dividends) be in a fund for 90 days before an investor is permitted a new exchange. A fund may change its exchange policy at any time upon 60 days' notice to its shareholders. The Trust may refuse any exchange order.
As explained in the prospectus, the Trust makes available to shareholders a systematic exchange program. The Trust reserves the right to modify or discontinue the systematic exchange program for any shareholder on 30 days' prior written notice to such shareholder, or to discontinue the availability of such plan to all shareholders in the future. Any shareholder may terminate the program at any time by giving proper notice to MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
REINSTATEMENT OR REINVESTMENT PRIVILEGE
After fund shares have been redeemed, a shareholder has a one-time right to reinvest any part of the proceeds, subject to the minimum investment of the fund, within 90 days of the redemption, at the current net asset value. This privilege must be requested in writing when the proceeds are sent to MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
For shareholders who exercise this privilege after redeeming Class A shares, the proceeds may be reinvested in Class A shares without a sales charge in the same fund and account from which the redemption was made.
For shareholders who exercise this privilege after redeeming Class B shares and paying a contingent deferred sales change (CDSC) on the redemption, the proceeds may be reinvested in Class A shares without a sales charge in the same fund and account from which the redemption was made. The account will not be credited with the CDSC paid. If Class B shares were redeemed and no CDSC was paid, the proceeds may be reinvested in Class B shares in the same fund and account from which the redemption was made. The holding period of the shares purchased will be "aged" back to the original purchase date.
To protect the interests of other investors in the funds, the Trust may cancel the reinvestment privilege of any parties that, in the opinion of the Trust, are using market timing strategies or making more than five exchanges per owner or controlling party per calendar year above and beyond any systematic or automated exchanges. Also, the Trust may refuse any reinvestment request.
The Trust may change or cancel its reinvestment policies at any time.
A redemption or exchange of fund shares is a taxable transaction for federal income tax purposes even if the reinvestment privilege is exercised, and any gain or loss realized by a shareholder on the redemption or other disposition of fund shares will be treated for tax purposes as described under the caption "Dividends, Distributions and Taxes."
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
The Trust's Board of Directors engaged Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, located at 111 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606-4301, to perform the annual audit of the Trust.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Financial information is not yet available because the funds began operations on December 27, 2006.
EXHIBIT A - SUMMARY OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
Each of the funds has adopted the proxy voting policies and procedures of its investment adviser, MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. ("MCA"), and/or its respective subadviser: Wellington Management Company, LLP ("Wellington Management") in the case of the Small Cap Value Fund, and Paradigm Asset Management Company, LLC ("Paradigm") in the case of the Small Cap Growth Fund.
The proxy voting policies and procedures for MCA, Wellington Management, and Paradigm effective as of November 29, 2006 are found below.
MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. ("MCA") has approved the following proxy voting policies and procedures with respect to securities owned by MEMBERS Mutual Funds ("MMF") and the Ultra Series Fund ("USF," and collectively with MMF, the "Trusts"), and held on behalf of accounts established on behalf of certain pension plan participants and beneficiaries, and other clients having assets under management with MCA ("collectively, the "MCA Clients") for which such clients MCA serves as the investment adviser and for which MCA has the power to vote proxies.
These policies and procedures include:
- A centralized review, recommendation and voting procedure;
- Established guidelines for voting on proxy issues;
- A recordkeeping system to monitor proxies and votes; and
- A record retention and disclosure system.
POLICY STATEMENT
It is the policy of MCA and of each Trust that proxy voting decisions will be made in light of the anticipated impact of the vote on the desirability of maintaining an investment in the portfolio company from the viewpoint of the client, without regard to any interest by MCA or its affiliates' related to sales, distribution or other interests. As a matter of policy, MCA will not be influenced by outside sources whose interests conflict with the interest of the Trusts or other MCA Clients, and any conflict of interest will be resolved in the interest of MCA Clients or Trust shareholders.
With respect to the proxy voting function relative to the Trusts, each Trust's Board of Trustees has delegated this function to MCA, through the personnel and entities, as applicable, designated herein. In general, with respect to proxies to be voted on behalf of shareholders of any of the Trusts' sub-advised series, or portions of such series, MCA currently intends to delegate its voting responsibilities hereunder, such that that the respective sub-advisers of such series, or portions of such series, will vote such proxies in accordance with their own proxy voting policies and procedures. Notwithstanding the foregoing, MCA reserves the right at any time to reassume the responsibility of voting proxies relative to one or more of the sub-advised portfolios of the Trusts. MCA currently intends to monitor, by requesting periodic certifications from each of the subadvisers, the voting of each of the sub-advisers to confirm consistency with each such sub-adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures and to seek assurance that conflicts of interest have been adequately monitored and resolved. The proxy voting policies and procedures of each of the sub-advisers will be presented annually to each Trust's Board of Trustees for its review and MCA will use reasonable efforts to ensure that each Trust's Board of Trustees is timely notified of such material changes thereto as the relevant sub-advisers have specifically brought to the attention of MCA, if, in MCA's judgment, such notification is necessary for the Board's fulfillment of its responsibilities hereunder.
In addition, it is MCA's general intention to vote proxies on behalf of its other MCA Clients also through the personnel and in the manner designated herein. However, MCA reserves the right to delegate the voting of such proxies to named subadvisers if its investment management services are delegated thereto with respect to accounts maintained by such clients.
MCA has retained the services of Institutional Shareholder Services, Inc. ("ISS"), which will include the provision for reference and use by MCA of its Proxy Voting Guideline Summary ("ISS Guidelines"), which contains in condensed form the policy guidelines set forth in ISS' Proxy Voting Manual, as well as the actual voting of any proxies.
The proxy voting guidelines referenced herein, including the ISS Guidelines, are intended only as guidelines. They are not exhaustive and do not include all potential voting issues. Because proxy issuances and the circumstances surrounding individual companies' proxies vary, there may be instances in which MCA may not vote in strict adherence to the guidelines specified herein. For example, MCA may become aware of proxy items that are company-specific and of a non-routine nature, and, although covered by the guidelines referenced herein, may be more appropriately handled on a case-by-case basis in a manner different from such guidelines.
REVIEW, RECOMMENDATION AND VOTING PROCEDURES
Nearly all proxies and related material received by MCA are transmitted electronically by ISS to MCA. ISS notifies MCA of the number of the shares beneficially owned and eligible to be voted by the Trusts, or other MCA Clients, as the case may be, which information it in turn obtains from the custodian of the issuer of such shares. Material to be transmitted to MCA by ISS will include such information, as well as proxy statements, and the issuer's explanation of the items to be voted upon.
The receipt of these materials by MCA will be logged into a database (the "Database") maintained by the Proxy Coordinator. After input into the Database, the Proxy Coordinator will then forward the materials to the appropriate Research Analyst of the Equity Investment Department, whose members are responsible for reviewing proxies.
Members of the Portfolio Management Team of MCA's Equity Investment Department, as part of the ongoing review and analysis of all portfolio holdings of the Trusts and of accounts established for MCA Clients, are responsible for monitoring significant corporate developments, including proxy proposals.
MCA's Proxy Committee will strive for consistency in the application of MCA's voting guidelines. The Proxy Committee will consist of three members of the Equity Investment Department, the Proxy Coordinator and the Proxy Reviewer.
To promote consistency in voting on the same or similar issues (for the same or for multiple issuers) across all client accounts, and to insulate MCA from influences exerted by firms' respective managements or by proxy solicitors, in general the Research Analysts will give strong consideration to the proxy voting guidelines of ISS in determining how to vote with respect to a given proxy. It is anticipated that, upon review of most proxies, the Research Analyst will, after referring to the ISS Guidelines, make a recommendation to the Proxy Coordinator as to how to instruct ISS to vote that is consistent with the recommendation contained in the ISS Guidelines.
MCA has currently appointed its Chief Compliance Officer as its Proxy Reviewer. In some instances, one or more members of the Portfolio Management Team may refer a proxy vote to the Proxy Reviewer for consideration, if, in the judgment of such member(s), the interests of Trust shareholders or other MCA Clients may warrant a vote contrary to the ISS Guidelines. In such cases, the Research Analyst will submit a written recommendation to the Proxy Reviewer and to any other persons who may be designated by MCA to assist in processing proxy referral items. The Proxy Reviewer, in making a determination as to a voting recommendation, will give serious consideration to the recommendation contained in the ISS Guidelines, but may also consider any other information relevant to the decision. In making a recommendation, the Proxy Reviewer may consult with or seek recommendations from one or more members of the Proxy Committee, the Portfolio Management Team, one or members of the Board of Trustees of a Trust (where the proxy to be voted is held by such Trust) or the full Board, as appropriate, or both. The Proxy Reviewer will ultimately determine the manner in which these proxies are to be voted. Upon making a determination as to how a particular proxy should be voted, the Proxy Reviewer shall communicate in writing such recommendation, including his or her rationale on items deemed significant in his or her judgment, to the Proxy Coordinator, the Proxy Committee, and the Research Analyst. Upon receipt of a final recommendation from the Proxy Reviewer, the Proxy Coordinator will forward voting instructions consistent with the Proxy Reviewer's recommendation to ISS. Upon receipt of voting instructions from MCA, ISS then will vote the proxies electronically in accordance with MCA's instructions.
VOTING GUIDELINES
GENERAL
As noted above, MCA's policy is that proxy voting decisions will be made in light of the anticipated impact of the vote on the desirability of maintaining an investment in the portfolio company from the viewpoint of the client, without regard to any interest by MCA or its affiliates' related to sales, distribution or other interests. MCA will not be influenced by outside sources whose interests conflict with the interest of clients, shareholders or plan participants and beneficiaries and any conflict of interest will be resolved in the interest of the investments on behalf of clients, Trust shareholders or other MCA Clients.
In MCA's view, proposals which are good for the issuer should be good for the shareholder as well, but an issuer's management's views must be assessed in this regard. When management acts on its own behalf, by limiting shareholder rights, instead of acting in the shareholders' best interests, it is MCA's responsibility to act in the shareholders' best interests, as it determines those interests. MCA's view of an issuer's management's primary responsibility is the maximization of the present value of the firm. Accordingly, as proposals in the area of corporate governance, capitalization changes, compensation programs and anti-takeover measures have increased in recent years, the circumstances under which it may be appropriate, in MCA's view, to vote against a particular issuer's management's recommendations have also increased.
As a general matter, MCA maintains a consistent voting position with respect to similar proxy proposals made by various firms. However, MCA recognizes that there are gradations in certain types of proposals (e.g., "poison pill" proposals or the potential dilution caused by the issuance of new stock) that may result in different voting positions being taken with respect to different proxy statements. Some items that are otherwise acceptable may be voted against if management is seeking extremely broad flexibility without offering a valid explanation. In addition, MCA generally recommends votes that are consistent on the same matter when securities of an issuer are held by multiple client accounts.
MCA intends to give significant weight and consideration to the recommendations on particular proxy matters covered in the ISS Guidelines, when determining its voting recommendation on similar matters. MCA anticipates that generally, upon receiving notice of a shareholder meeting and a proxy solicitation, the Proxy Coordinator shall recommend that the proxy be voted in accordance with the policy recommendation set forth in the ISS Guidelines with respect to a particular proxy measure.
In all cases, however, MCA reserves the right to substitute its own recommendation for the recommendation of ISS. Furthermore, if ISS notifies MCA that there is a conflict of interest, ISS will abstain from the vote and the Research Analyst will submit the vote according to ISS's guidelines.
THIRD PARTY VOTING GUIDELINES
On an annual basis, the Proxy Committee will review the ISS Guidelines as well as summaries of Proxy Voting Procedures from sub-advisers. The Committee will determine whether the ISS Guidelines conflict mitigation procedures are appropriate for MCA's clients. A copy of the ISS Guidelines is attached hereto as Exhibit A. MCA will also separately maintain copies, electronically or otherwise, of the proxy voting policies and procedures of any sub-adviser to whom it has delegated such duties in accordance herewith. In addition, a copy of ISS's Policy, Procedures and Practices Regarding Potential Conflicts of Interest is attached as Exhibit B hereto. Due to the physical separation of ISS Corporate Programs Division and ISS's proxy analysis operations, it is MCA's belief that the potential for conflicts of interest is significantly reduced.
MONITORING SYSTEM
It is the responsibility of each of Internal Audit and the MCA Compliance Department to monitor the proxy voting process to ensure that it is followed in accordance with the procedures contained herein. As noted above, when proxy materials for the Trusts or other MCA Clients are received, they are forwarded to the Proxy Coordinator who inputs an acknowledgment of receipt into the Database. Additionally, a record of the list of the Trusts and MCA Clients who hold shares of a company's stock, the number of shares held on the record date, the listing of any upcoming shareholder's meeting of that company, the proxy statement, and any other proxy related materials transmitted by ISS and received by MCA will also be maintained in the Database, or on ISS' database, as appropriate. The Proxy Coordinator will reconcile the number of shares the client held on record date with the number of shares ISS is reporting that MCA has available to vote. The Coordinator shall investigate discrepancies in the number of shares available to vote with the clients' custodian. The Proxy Coordinator will make a note to the file with the reason for the discrepancy of shares unavailable to vote.
CONFLICTS
MCA recognizes that occasions may arise where a person or organization involved in the proxy voting process may have a conflict of interest with MCA, its personnel or its affiliates. A conflict of interest may exist, for example, if MCA management has a business relationship with (or is actively soliciting business from) either the company soliciting the proxy or a third party (including ISS) that has a material interest in the outcome of a proxy vote or that is actively lobbying for a particular outcome of a proxy vote.
MCA's Proxy Coordinator will request from the Chief Legal Officer at ISS a list of issuer relationships on a periodic basis, including the name of issuer, service provided and amount of compensation. This document will be reviewed by the Proxy Committee and maintained by the Proxy Coordinator. Upon ISS's issuance of proxy analysis and recommendations to MCA, ISS will confirm whether or not a conflict of interest exists. In the event of a conflict at ISS, the Research Analyst will vote the proxy according to ISS's standard guidelines which indicates that MCA's Portfolio Management Team has reviewed the analysis and has voted the proposals in the best interest of MCA's clients.
Furthermore, any MCA Portfolio Management Team member with knowledge of a personal conflict of interest (e.g., familiar relationship with company management) relating to a particular referral item shall disclose that conflict to the Proxy Committee and shall otherwise remove himself or herself from the proxy voting process. In such circumstance, the Proxy Reviewer will review the referred item as being subject to the conflict to determine if, in her judgment, a conflict of interest in fact exists, and will provide the Proxy Coordinator with a conflicts report ("Conflicts Report") for each such referral item. The Conflicts Report shall (1) describe any conflict of interest; (2) discuss the procedures used to address such conflict of interest; and (3) disclose any contacts from parties outside MCA management (other than routine communications with proxy solicitors) with respect to the referral item not otherwise reported in an investment professional's recommendation. The Conflicts Report will also include written confirmation that any recommendation from an investment professional provided under circumstances where a conflict of interest exists was made solely on the investment merits and without regard to any other consideration.
In the event that the Proxy Reviewer has determined, with respect to a particular proxy item, that a conflict of interest exists or potentially exists, then, in most circumstances, the Proxy Reviewer will submit a recommendation to the Proxy Coordinator to vote the proxy in accordance with the ISS Guideline applicable to the particular category of proxy item. In the event, however, that the Proxy Reviewer has determined that, notwithstanding the existence of an actual or potential conflict, a proxy vote in accordance with the particular ISS Guideline applicable to such category of proxy item would be inconsistent with the interest of a Trust's shareholders or other MCA Client, then, the Proxy Reviewer may elect to recommend that the Proxy Coordinator submit to ISS instructions to abstain from the proxy vote, or, may present the possible conflict to the Proxy Committee, one or members of the Board of Trustees of a Trust (where the proxy to be voted is held by such Trust) or the full Board, as appropriate, or both for resolution and a determination of a voting recommendation.
In reviewing the adequacy of proxy voting policies and procedures provided by the sub-advisers to the Trusts, the Proxy Committee will evaluate the extent to which pre-determined procedures for the resolution of conflicts of interest have been established and the extent to which each sub-adviser has limited discretion in making a proxy voting decision in the event of a conflict of interest, or other mechanism to ensure that any decision with respect to a proposal representing a conflict between the interest of a sub-adviser and the Trust would be effectively insulated from the conflict.
MCA recognizes that there may be instances where the responsibility for voting proxies with respect to a single security is vested in two or more sub-advisers (e.g., when more than one series, or two managed portions of the same series, hold voting securities of a single issuer). Under these circumstances, there is the possibility that the application of relevant proxy voting policies will result in proxies being voted inconsistently. It is MCA's position that such circumstances will not be deemed to suggest improper action on the part of any sub-adviser, and that neither MCA nor the Trusts will be required to take any action with respect to such instances, in the absence of other compelling factors that would necessitate such action.
AVAILABILITY OF POLICIES AND PROCEDURES TO PUBLIC
MCA will make the proxy voting policies and procedures contained herein available by disclosing the same, or causing the same to be disclosed: (1) with respect to the Trusts, in each Trust's Statement of Additional Information contained within its currently effective Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, (2) with respect to the Trusts, on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, (3) with respect to MCA Clients other than the Trusts, by providing a summary of the policies and procedures contained herein in Part II of its Form ADV, together with instructions to such clients concerning how they may obtain a copy of these policies and procedures free of charge, and (4) by providing, upon request received through the applicable Trust's then-existing toll free number (currently 1-800-877-6089 for MMF and 1-800-798-5500 for USF) or, with respect to other MCA Clients, through MCA's then-existing toll free number (currently 1-800-356-2644 ext. 6111), a written copy of these policies and procedures.
DISCLOSURE OF TRUSTS' PROXY VOTING RECORDS
Pursuant to Rule 30b1-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, each of the Trusts will make a filing with the SEC on Form N-PX, containing the Trust's complete proxy voting record for the twelve-month period ended June 30, by no later than August 31 of each year. Each Trust's filing on Form N-PX will be signed by the respective Trust and on behalf of the respective Trust by its principal executive officer(s).
Each Trust's annual Form N-PX filing shall disclose, for each matter relating to
a portfolio security considered at any shareholder meeting held during the
period covered by the report and with respect to which the Trust was entitled to
vote: (1) the name of the issuer of the portfolio security; (2) the exchange
ticker symbol of the portfolio security; (3) the CUSIP number for the security;
(4) the shareholder meeting date; (5) a brief identification of the matter voted
on; (6) whether the matter was proposed by the issuer or by a security holder;
(7) whether the Trust cast its vote on the matter; (8) how the Trust voted; and
(9) whether the Trust cast its vote for or against management.
In addition, each of the Trusts shall make its proxy voting record available (1)
to the public, by disclosing its proxy voting record, as reflected in its most
recent Form N-PX filing with the SEC, on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov, and
(2) to its investors of MMF through its website at www.membersfunds.com and for
USF beneficial owners by calling CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company at
1-800-798-5500. With respect to other MCA Clients, MCA shall make its proxy
voting record available by disclosing, in Part II of its Form ADV filing, that
such clients may request information on how their securities were voted by
calling MCA's then-existing toll free number (currently 1-800-356-2644 ext.
6111) and requesting such information.
RECORD RETENTION AND REPORTS
Electronic copies of all proxy solicitation materials received by MCA, all supporting documentation underlying MCA's proxy voting recommendations, and all communications regarding such proxies to and from ISS, including the dates when proxy notifications were received and voting recommendations returned to ISS, and the votes on each issuer's proxies, are maintained by the Proxy Coordinator. All such records are retained for six years; the first two years must be in a readily accessible place in the offices of MCA.
Generally, MCA will not divulge actual voting practices to any party other than to a Trust or another MCA Client or its recognized representatives (or an appropriate governmental agency) because such information is considered confidential and proprietary to the client.
On an annual basis, the Proxy Coordinator will provide a report to the MCA Chief Compliance Officer concerning those votes cast during the reporting period against ISS's recommendation on the proxy statements of companies whose shares were held by the Trusts and other MCA Clients, and any conflicts that arose with respect to proxies voted during the period and how such conflicts were handled.
MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.
EXHIBIT A - ISS PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES SUMMARY
The following is a condensed version of all proxy voting recommendations contained in The ISS Proxy Voting Manual.
1. OPERATIONAL ITEMS
ADJOURN MEETING
Generally vote AGAINST proposals to provide management with the authority to adjourn an annual or special meeting absent compelling reasons to support the proposal.
AMEND QUORUM REQUIREMENTS
Vote AGAINST proposals to reduce quorum requirements for shareholder meetings below a majority of the shares outstanding unless there are compelling reasons to support the proposal.
AMEND MINOR BYLAWS
Vote FOR bylaw or charter changes that are of a housekeeping nature (updates or corrections).
CHANGE COMPANY NAME
Vote FOR proposals to change the corporate name.
CHANGE DATE, TIME, OR LOCATION OF ANNUAL MEETING
Vote FOR management proposals to change the date/time/location of the annual meeting unless the proposed change is unreasonable.
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals to change the date/time/location of the annual meeting unless the current scheduling or location is unreasonable.
RATIFYING AUDITORS
Vote FOR proposals to ratify auditors, unless any of the following apply: an auditor has a financial interest in or association with the company, and is therefore not independent; fees for non-audit services are excessive, or there is reason to believe that the independent auditor has rendered an opinion which is neither accurate nor indicative of the company's financial position.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals asking companies to prohibit or limit their auditors from engaging in non-audit services.
Vote FOR shareholder proposals asking for audit firm rotation, unless the rotation period is so short (less than five years) that it would be unduly burdensome to the company.
TRANSACT OTHER BUSINESS
Vote AGAINST proposals to approve other business when it appears as voting item.
2. BOARD OF DIRECTORS
VOTING ON DIRECTOR NOMINEES IN UNCONTESTED ELECTIONS
Votes on director nominees should be made on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, examining the
following factors: composition of the board and key board committees, attendance
at board meetings, corporate governance provisions and takeover activity,
long-term company performance relative to a market index, directors' investment
in the company, whether the chairman is also serving as CEO, and whether a
retired CEO sits on the board. However, there are some actions by directors that
should result in votes being withheld. These instances include directors who:
Attend less than 75 percent of the board and committee meetings without a valid
excuse; implement or renew a dead-hand or modified dead-hand poison pill; ignore
a shareholder proposal that is approved by a majority of the shares outstanding;
ignore a shareholder proposal that is approved by a majority of the votes cast
for two consecutive years; failed to act on takeover offers where the majority
of the shareholders tendered their shares; are inside directors or affiliated
outsiders and sit on the audit, compensation, or nominating committees; are
inside directors or affiliated outsiders and the full board serves as the audit,
compensation, or nominating committee or the company does not have one of these
committees; are audit committee members and the non-audit fees paid to the
auditor are excessive. In addition, directors who enacted egregious corporate
governance policies or failed to replace management as appropriate would be
subject to recommendations to withhold votes.
AGE LIMITS
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals to impose a mandatory retirement age for outside directors.
BOARD SIZE
Vote FOR proposals seeking to fix the board size or designate a range for the board size. Vote AGAINST proposals that give management the ability to alter the size of the board outside of a specified range without shareholder approval.
CLASSIFICATION/DECLASSIFICATION OF THE BOARD
Vote AGAINST proposals to classify the board.
Vote FOR proposals to repeal classified boards and to elect all directors annually.
CUMULATIVE VOTING
Vote AGAINST proposals to eliminate cumulative voting.
Vote proposals to restore or permit cumulative voting on a CASE-BY-CASE basis relative to the company's other governance provisions.
DIRECTOR AND OFFICER INDEMNIFICATION AND LIABILITY PROTECTION
Proposals on director and officer indemnification and liability protection should be evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, using Delaware law as the standard.
Vote AGAINST proposals to eliminate entirely directors' and officers' liability for monetary damages for violating the duty of care.
Vote AGAINST indemnification proposals that would expand coverage beyond just legal expenses to acts, such as negligence, that are more serious violations of fiduciary obligation than mere carelessness.
Vote FOR only those proposals providing such expanded coverage in cases when a director's or officer's legal defense was unsuccessful if both of the following apply: the director was found to have acted in good faith and in a manner that he reasonably believed was in the best interests of the company, and only if the director's legal expenses would be covered.
ESTABLISH/AMEND NOMINEE QUALIFICATIONS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals that establish or amend director qualifications.
Votes should be based on how reasonable the criteria are and to what degree they may preclude dissident nominees from joining the board.
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals requiring two candidates per board seat.
FILLING VACANCIES/REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS
Vote AGAINST proposals that provide that directors may be removed only for cause.
Vote FOR proposals to restore shareholder ability to remove directors with or without cause.
Vote AGAINST proposals that provide that only continuing directors may elect replacements to fill board vacancies.
Vote FOR proposals that permit shareholders to elect directors to fill board vacancies.
INDEPENDENT CHAIRMAN (SEPARATE CHAIRMAN/CEO)
Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis shareholder proposals requiring that the positions of chairman and CEO be held separately. Because some companies have governance structures in place that counterbalance a combined position, the following factors should be taken into account in determining whether the proposal warrants support: Designated lead director appointed from the ranks of the independent board members with clearly delineated duties; majority of independent directors on board; all-independent key committees; committee chairpersons nominated by the independent directors; CEO performance reviewed annually by a committee of outside directors; established governance guidelines; company performance.
MAJORITY OF INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS/ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMITTEES
Vote FOR shareholder proposals asking that a majority or more of directors be independent unless the board composition already meets the proposed threshold by ISS's definition of independence.
Vote FOR shareholder proposals asking that board audit, compensation, and/or nominating committees be composed exclusively of independent directors if they currently do not meet that standard.
STOCK OWNERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals that mandate a minimum amount of stock that directors must own in order to qualify as a director or to remain on the board. While ISS favors stock ownership on the part of directors, the company should determine the appropriate ownership requirement.
TERM LIMITS
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals to limit the tenure of outside directors.
3. PROXY CONTESTS
VOTING FOR DIRECTOR NOMINEES IN CONTESTED ELECTIONS
Votes in a contested election of directors must be evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Long-term financial performance of the target company relative to its industry; management's track record; background to the proxy contest; qualifications of director nominees (both slates); evaluation of what each side is offering shareholders as well as the likelihood that the proposed objectives and goals can be met; and stock ownership positions.
REIMBURSING PROXY SOLICITATION EXPENSES
Voting to reimburse proxy solicitation expenses should be analyzed on a CASE-BY-CASE basis. In cases where ISS recommends in favor of the dissidents, we also recommend voting for reimbursing proxy solicitation expenses.
CONFIDENTIAL VOTING
Vote FOR shareholder proposals requesting that corporations adopt confidential voting, use independent vote tabulators and use independent inspectors of election, as long as the proposal includes a provision for proxy contests as follows: In the case of a contested election, management should be permitted to request that the dissident group honor its confidential voting policy. If the dissidents agree, the policy remains in place. If the dissidents will not agree, the confidential voting policy is waived.
Vote FOR management proposals to adopt confidential voting.
4. ANTITAKEOVER DEFENSES AND VOTING RELATED ISSUES
ADVANCE NOTICE REQUIREMENTS FOR SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS/NOMINATIONS
Votes on advance notice proposals are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, giving support to those proposals which allow shareholders to submit proposals as close to the meeting date as reasonably possible and within the broadest window possible.
AMEND BYLAWS WITHOUT SHAREHOLDER CONSENT
Vote AGAINST proposals giving the board exclusive authority to amend the bylaws.
Vote FOR proposals giving the board the ability to amend the bylaws in addition to shareholders.
POISON PILLS
Vote FOR shareholder proposals that ask a company to submit its poison pill for shareholder ratification.
Review on a CASE-BY-CASE basis shareholder proposals to redeem a company's poison pill.
Review on a CASE-BY-CASE basis management proposals to ratify a poison pill.
SHAREHOLDER ABILITY TO ACT BY WRITTEN CONSENT
Vote AGAINST proposals to restrict or prohibit shareholder ability to take action by written consent.
Vote FOR proposals to allow or make easier shareholder action by written consent.
SHAREHOLDER ABILITY TO CALL SPECIAL MEETINGS
Vote AGAINST proposals to restrict or prohibit shareholder ability to call special meetings.
Vote FOR proposals that remove restrictions on the right of shareholders to act independently of management.
SUPERMAJORITY VOTE REQUIREMENTS
Vote AGAINST proposals to require a supermajority shareholder vote.
Vote FOR proposals to lower supermajority vote requirements.
5. MERGERS AND CORPORATE RESTRUCTURINGS
APPRAISAL RIGHTS
Vote FOR proposals to restore, or provide shareholders with, rights of appraisal.
ASSET PURCHASES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on asset purchase proposals, considering the following factors: Purchase price; fairness opinion; financial and strategic benefits; how the deal was negotiated; conflicts of interest; other alternatives for the business; noncompletion risk.
ASSET SALES
Votes on asset sales should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Impact on the balance sheet/working capital; potential elimination of diseconomies; anticipated financial and operating benefits; anticipated use of funds; value received for the asset; fairness opinion; how the deal was negotiated; conflicts of interest.
BUNDLED PROPOSALS
Review on a CASE-BY-CASE basis bundled or "conditioned" proxy proposals. In the case of items that are conditioned upon each other, examine the benefits and costs of the packaged items. In instances when the joint effect of the conditioned items is not in shareholders' best interests, vote against the proposals. If the combined effect is positive, support such proposals.
CONVERSION OF SECURITIES
Votes on proposals regarding conversion of securities are determined on a CASE-BYCASE basis. When evaluating these proposals the investor should review the dilution to existing shareholders, the conversion price relative to market value, financial issues, control issues, termination penalties, and conflicts of interest.
Vote FOR the conversion if it is expected that the company will be subject to onerous penalties or will be forced to file for bankruptcy if the transaction is not approved.
CORPORATE REORGANIZATION/DEBT RESTRUCTURING/PREPACKAGED BANKRUPTCY PLANS/REVERSE LEVERAGED BUYOUTS/WRAP PLANS
Votes on proposals to increase common and/or preferred shares and to issue shares as part of a debt restructuring plan are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, taking into consideration the following: Dilution to existing shareholders' position; terms of the offer; financial issues; management's efforts to pursue other alternatives; control issues; conflicts of interest.
Vote FOR the debt restructuring if it is expected that the company will file for bankruptcy if the transaction is not approved.
FORMATION OF HOLDING COMPANY
Votes on proposals regarding the formation of a holding company should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, taking into consideration the following: The reasons for the change; any financial or tax benefits; regulatory benefits; increases in capital structure; changes to the articles of incorporation or bylaws of the company.
Absent compelling financial reasons to recommend the transaction, vote AGAINST the formation of a holding company if the transaction would include either of the following: Increases in common or preferred stock in excess of the allowable maximum as calculated by the ISS Capital Structure model; adverse changes in shareholder rights
GOING PRIVATE TRANSACTIONS (LBOS AND MINORITY SQUEEZEOUTS)
Vote going private transactions on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, taking into account the following: Offer price/premium, fairness opinion, how the deal was negotiated, conflicts of interest, other alternatives/offers considered, and noncompletion risk.
JOINT VENTURES
Votes CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to form joint ventures, taking into account the following: Percentage of assets/business contributed, percentage ownership, financial and strategic benefits, governance structure, conflicts of interest, other alternatives, and noncompletion risk.
LIQUIDATIONS
Votes on liquidations should be made on a CASE-BY-CASE basis after reviewing management's efforts to pursue other alternatives, appraisal value of assets, and the compensation plan for executives managing the liquidation.
Vote FOR the liquidation if the company will file for bankruptcy if the proposal is not approved.
MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS/ ISSUANCE OF SHARES TO FACILITATE MERGER OR ACQUISITION
Votes on mergers and acquisitions should be considered on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, determining whether the transaction enhances shareholder value by giving consideration to the following: Prospects of the combined company, anticipated financial and operating benefits; offer price; fairness opinion; how the deal was negotiated; changes in corporate governance; change in the capital structure; conflicts of interest.
PRIVATE PLACEMENTS/WARRANTS/CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES
Votes on proposals regarding private placements should be determined on a
CASE-BYCASE basis. When evaluating these proposals the investor should review:
Dilution to existing shareholders' position, terms of the offer, financial
issues, management's efforts to pursue other alternatives, control issues, and
conflicts of interest.
Vote FOR the private placement if it is expected that the company will file for bankruptcy if the transaction is not approved.
SPINOFFS
Votes on spinoffs should be considered on a CASE-BY-CASE basis depending on: Tax and regulatory advantages; planned use of the sale proceeds; valuation of spinoff; fairness opinion; benefits to the parent company; conflicts of interest; managerial incentives; corporate governance changes; changes in the capital structure.
VALUE MAXIMIZATION PROPOSALS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals seeking to maximize shareholder value by hiring a financial advisor to explore strategic alternatives, selling the company or liquidating the company and distributing the proceeds to shareholders. These proposals should be evaluated based on the following factors: Prolonged poor performance with no turnaround in sight, signs of entrenched board and management, strategic plan in place for improving value, likelihood of receiving reasonable value in a sale or dissolution, and whether company is actively exploring its strategic options, including retaining a financial advisor.
6. STATE OF INCORPORATION
CONTROL SHARE ACQUISITION PROVISIONS
Vote FOR proposals to opt out of control share acquisition statutes unless doing so would enable the completion of a takeover that would be detrimental to shareholders.
Vote AGAINST proposals to amend the charter to include control share acquisition provisions.
Vote FOR proposals to restore voting rights to the control shares.
CONTROL SHARE CASHOUT PROVISIONS
Vote FOR proposals to opt out of control share cashout statutes.
DISGORGEMENT PROVISIONS
Vote FOR proposals to opt out of state disgorgement provisions.
FAIR PRICE PROVISIONS
Vote proposals to adopt fair price provisions on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, evaluating factors such as the vote required to approve the proposed acquisition, the vote required to repeal the fair price provision, and the mechanism for determining the fair price.
Generally, vote AGAINST fair price provisions with shareholder vote requirements greater than a majority of disinterested shares.
FREEZEOUT PROVISIONS
Vote FOR proposals to opt out of state freezeout provisions.
GREENMAIL
Vote FOR proposals to adopt antigreenmail charter of bylaw amendments or otherwise restrict a company's ability to make greenmail payments.
Review on a CASE-BY-CASE basis antigreenmail proposals when they are bundled with other charter or bylaw amendments.
REINCORPORATION PROPOSALS
Proposals to change a company's state of incorporation should be evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, giving consideration to both financial and corporate governance concerns, including the reasons for reincorporating, a comparison of the governance provisions, and a comparison of the jurisdictional laws.
Vote FOR reincorporation when the economic factors outweigh any neutral or negative governance changes.
STAKEHOLDER PROVISIONS
Vote AGAINST proposals that ask the board to consider nonshareholder constituencies or other nonfinancial effects when evaluating a merger or business combination.
STATE ANTITAKEOVER STATUTES
Review on a CASE-BY-CASE basis proposals to opt in or out of state takeover statutes (including control share acquisition statutes, control share cash-out statutes, freezeout provisions, fair price provisions, stakeholder laws, poison pill endorsements, severance pay and labor contract provisions, antigreenmail provisions, and disgorgement provisions).
7. CAPITAL STRUCTURE
ADJUSTMENTS TO PAR VALUE OF COMMON STOCK
Vote FOR management proposals to reduce the par value of common stock.
COMMON STOCK AUTHORIZATION
Votes on proposals to increase the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis using a model developed by ISS.
Vote AGAINST proposals at companies with dual-class capital structures to increase the number of authorized shares of the class of stock that has superior voting rights.
Vote FOR proposals to approve increases beyond the allowable increase when a company's shares are in danger of being delisted or if a company's ability to continue to operate as a going concern is uncertain.
DUAL-CLASS STOCK
Vote AGAINST proposals to create a new class of common stock with superior voting rights.
Vote FOR proposals to create a new class of nonvoting or subvoting common stock if: it is intended for financing purposes with minimal or no dilution to current shareholders; it is not designed to preserve the voting power of an insider or significant shareholder.
ISSUE STOCK FOR USE WITH RIGHTS PLAN
Vote AGAINST proposals that increase authorized common stock for the explicit purpose of implementing a shareholder rights plan (poison pill).
PREEMPTIVE RIGHTS
Review on a CASE-BY-CASE basis shareholder proposals that seek preemptive rights. In evaluating proposals on preemptive rights, consider the size of a company, the characteristics of its shareholder base, and the liquidity of the stock.
PREFERRED STOCK
Vote AGAINST proposals authorizing the creation of new classes of preferred stock with unspecified voting, conversion, dividend distribution, and other rights ("blank check" preferred stock).
Vote FOR proposals to create "declawed" blank check preferred stock (stock that cannot be used as a takeover defense).
Vote FOR proposals to authorize preferred stock in cases where the company specifies the voting, dividend, conversion, and other rights of such stock and the terms of the preferred stock appear reasonable.
Vote AGAINST proposals to increase the number of blank check preferred stock authorized for issuance when no shares have been issued or reserved for a specific purpose.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to increase the number of blank check preferred shares after analyzing the number of preferred shares available for issue given a company's industry and performance in terms of shareholder returns.
RECAPITALIZATION
Votes CASE-BY-CASE on recapitalizations (reclassifications of securities), taking into account the following: More simplified capital structure, enhanced liquidity, fairness of conversion terms, impact on voting power and dividends, reasons for the reclassification, conflicts of interest, and other alternatives considered.
REVERSE STOCK SPLITS
Vote FOR management proposals to implement a reverse stock split when the number of authorized shares will be proportionately reduced.
Vote FOR management proposals to implement a reverse stock split to avoid delisting.
Votes on proposals to implement a reverse stock split that do not proportionately reduce the number of shares authorized for issue should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis using a model developed by ISS.
SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAMS
Vote FOR management proposals to institute open-market share repurchase plans in which all shareholders may participate on equal terms.
STOCK DISTRIBUTIONS: SPLITS AND DIVIDENDS
Vote FOR management proposals to increase the common share authorization for a stock split or share dividend, provided that the increase in authorized shares would not result in an excessive number of shares available for issuance as determined using a model developed by ISS.
TRACKING STOCK
Votes on the creation of tracking stock are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, weighing the strategic value of the transaction against such factors as: Adverse governance changes, excessive increases in authorized capital stock, unfair method of distribution, diminution of voting rights, adverse conversion features, negative impact on stock option plans, and other alternatives such as spinoff.
8. EXECUTIVE AND DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
Votes with respect to compensation plans should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis. Our methodology for reviewing compensation plans primarily focuses on the transfer of shareholder wealth (the dollar cost of pay plans to shareholders instead of simply focusing on voting power dilution). Using the expanded compensation data disclosed under the SEC's rules, ISS will value every award type. ISS will include in its analyses an estimated dollar cost for the proposed plan and all continuing plans. This cost, dilution to shareholders' equity, will also be expressed as a percentage figure for the transfer of shareholder wealth, and will be considered long with dilution to voting power.
Once ISS determines the estimated cost of the plan, we compare it to a company-specific dilution cap. Our model determines a company-specific allowable pool of shareholder wealth that may be transferred from the company to executives, adjusted for: Long-term corporate performance (on an absolute basis and relative to a standard industry peer group and an appropriate market index); cash compensation; and categorization of the company as emerging, growth, or mature. These adjustments are pegged to market capitalization. ISS will continue to examine other features of proposed pay plans such as administration, payment terms, plan duration, and whether the administering committee is permitted to reprice underwater stock options without shareholder approval.
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
Votes on compensation plans for directors are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, using a proprietary, quantitative model developed by ISS.
STOCK PLANS IN LIEU OF CASH
Votes for plans which provide participants with the option of taking all or a portion of their cash compensation in the form of stock are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.
Vote FOR plans which provide a dollar-for-dollar cash for stock exchange.
Votes for plans which do not provide a dollar-for-dollar cash for stock exchange should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis using a proprietary, quantitative model developed by ISS.
DIRECTOR RETIREMENT PLANS
Vote AGAINST retirement plans for nonemployee directors.
Vote FOR shareholder proposals to eliminate retirement plans for nonemployee directors.
MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS SEEKING APPROVAL TO REPRICE OPTIONS
Votes on management proposals seeking approval to reprice options are evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis giving consideration to the following: historic trading patterns; rationale for the repricing; value-for-value exchange; option vesting; term of the option; exercise price; participation.
EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLANS
Votes on employee stock purchase plans should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.
Vote FOR employee stock purchase plans where all of the following apply:
purchase price is at least 85 percent of fair market value; offering period is
27 months or less; and potential voting power dilution (VPD) is ten percent or
less.
Vote AGAINST employee stock purchase plans where any of the following apply:
purchase price is less than 85 percent of fair market value; or offering period
is greater than 27 months; or VPD is greater than ten percent.
INCENTIVE BONUS PLANS AND TAX DEDUCTIBILITY PROPOSALS (OBRA-RELATED COMPENSATION PROPOSALS)
Vote FOR proposals that simply amend shareholder-approved compensation plans to include administrative features or place a cap on the annual grants any one participant may receive to comply with the provisions of Section 162(m).
Vote FOR proposals to add performance goals to existing compensation plans to comply with the provisions of Section 162(m) unless they are clearly inappropriate.
Votes to amend existing plans to increase shares reserved and to qualify for favorable tax treatment under the provisions of Section 162(m) should be considered on a CASE-BYCASE basis using a proprietary, quantitative model developed by ISS.
Generally vote FOR cash or cash and stock bonus plans that are submitted to shareholders for the purpose of exempting compensation from taxes under the provisions of Section 162(m) if no increase in shares is requested.
EMPLOYEE STOCK OWNERSHIP PLANS (ESOPS)
Vote FOR proposals to implement an ESOP or increase authorized shares for
existing ESOPs, unless the number of shares allocated to the ESOP is excessive
(more than five percent of outstanding shares.)
401(K) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Vote FOR proposals to implement a 401(k) savings plan for employees.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS REGARDING EXECUTIVE AND DIRECTOR PAY
Generally, vote FOR shareholder proposals seeking additional disclosure of executive and director pay information, provided the information requested is relevant to shareholders' needs, would not put the company at a competitive disadvantage relative to its industry, and is not unduly burdensome to the company.
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals seeking to set absolute levels on compensation or otherwise dictate the amount or form of compensation.
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals requiring director fees be paid in stock only.
Vote FOR shareholder proposals to put option repricings to a shareholder vote.
Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis for all other shareholder proposals regarding executive and director pay, taking into account company performance, pay level versus peers, pay level versus industry, and long term corporate outlook.
OPTION EXPENSING
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals asking the company to expense stock options, unless the company has already publicly committed to expensing options by a specific date.
PERFORMANCE-BASED STOCK OPTIONS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals advocating the use of performance based stock options (indexed, premium-priced, and performance-vested options), taking into account: Whether the proposal mandates that all awards be performance-based; whether the proposal extends beyond executive awards to those of lower-ranking employees; whether the company's stock-based compensation plans meet ISS's SVT criteria and do not violate our repricing guidelines.
GOLDEN AND TIN PARACHUTES
Vote FOR shareholder proposals to require golden and tin parachutes (executive severance agreements) to be submitted for shareholder ratification, unless the proposal requires shareholder approval prior to entering into employment contracts.
Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis on proposals to ratify or cancel golden or tin parachutes. An acceptable parachute should include the following: the parachute should be less attractive than an ongoing employment opportunity with the firm; the triggering mechanism should be beyond the control of management; the amount should not exceed three times base salary plus guaranteed benefits.
9. SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
CONSUMER ISSUES AND PUBLIC SAFETY
ANIMAL RIGHTS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to phase out the use of animals in product testing, taking into account: The nature of the product and the degree that animal testing is necessary or federally mandated (such as medical products); the availability and feasibility of alternatives to animal testing to ensure product safety; and the degree that competitors are using animal-free testing.
Generally vote FOR proposals seeking a report on the company's animal welfare standards unless: The company has already published a set of animal welfare standards and monitors compliance; the company's standards are comparable to or better than those of peer firms; and there are no serious controversies surrounding the company's treatment of animals.
DRUG PRICING
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking the company to implement price restraints on pharmaceutical products, taking into account: Whether the proposal focuses on a specific drug and region; whether the economic benefits of providing subsidized drugs (e.g., public goodwill) outweigh the costs in terms of reduced profits, lower R&D spending, and harm to competitiveness; the extent that reduced prices can be offset through the company's marketing budget without affecting R&D spending; whether the company already limits price increases of its products; whether the company already contributes life-saving pharmaceuticals to the needy and Third World countries; the extent that peer companies implement price restraints.
GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOODS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to label genetically modified (GMO) ingredients voluntarily in the company's products, or alternatively to provide interim labeling and eventually eliminate GMOs, taking into account: the costs and feasibility of labeling and/or phasing out; the nature of the company's business and the proportion of it affected by the proposal; the proportion of company sales in markets requiring labeling or GMO-free products; the extent that peer companies label or have eliminated GMOs; competitive benefits, such as expected increases in consumer demand for the company's products; the risks of misleading consumers without federally mandated, standardized labeling; alternatives to labeling employed by the company.
Vote FOR proposals asking for a report on the feasibility of labeling products containing GMOs.
Vote AGAINST proposals to completely phase out GMOs from the company's products. Such resolutions presuppose that there are proven health risks to GMOs--an issue better left to federal regulators--which outweigh the economic benefits derived from biotechnology.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on reports outlining the steps necessary to eliminate GMOs from the company's products, taking into account: The relevance of the proposal in terms of the company's business and the proportion of it affected by the resolution; the extent that peer companies have eliminated GMOs; the extent that the report would clarify whether it is viable for the company to eliminate GMOs from its products; whether the proposal is limited to a feasibility study or additionally seeks an action plan and timeframe actually to phase out GMOs; the percentage of revenue derived from international operations, particularly in Europe, where GMOs are more regulated.
Vote AGAINST proposals seeking a report on the health and environmental effects of GMOs and the company's strategy for phasing out GMOs in the event they become illegal in the United States. Studies of this sort are better undertaken by regulators and the scientific community. If made illegal in the United States, genetically modified crops would automatically be recalled and phased out.
HANDGUNS
Generally vote AGAINST requests for reports on a company's policies aimed at curtailing gun violence in the United States unless the report is confined to product safety information. Criminal misuse of firearms is beyond company control and instead falls within the purview of law enforcement agencies.
PREDATORY LENDING
Vote CASE-BY CASE on requests for reports on the company's procedures for preventing predatory lending, including the establishment of a board committee for oversight, taking into account: Whether the company has adequately disclosed mechanisms in place to prevent abusive lending practices; whether the company has adequately disclosed the financial risks of its subprime business; whether the company has been subject to violations of lending laws or serious lending controversies; peer companies' policies to prevent abusive lending practices.
TOBACCO
Most tobacco-related proposals should be evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, taking into account the following factors:
Second-hand smoke: Whether the company complies with all local ordinances and regulations; the degree that voluntary restrictions beyond those mandated by law might hurt the company's competitiveness; the risk of any health-related liabilities.
Advertising to youth: Whether the company complies with federal, state, and local laws on the marketing of tobacco or if it has been fined for violations; whether the company has gone as far as peers in restricting advertising; whether the company entered into the Master Settlement Agreement, which restricts marketing of tobacco to youth; whether restrictions on marketing to youth extend to foreign countries.
Cease production of tobacco-related products or avoid selling products to tobacco companies: The percentage of the company's business affected; the economic loss of eliminating the business versus any potential tobacco-related liabilities.
Spinoff tobacco-related businesses: the percentage of the company's business affected; the feasibility of a spinoff; potential future liabilities related to the company's tobacco business.
Stronger product warnings: Vote AGAINST proposals seeking stronger product warnings. Such decisions are better left to public health authorities.
Investment in tobacco stocks: Vote AGAINST proposals prohibiting investment in tobacco equities. Such decisions are better left to portfolio managers.
ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY
ARCTIC NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on reports outlining potential environmental damage from drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), taking into account:
Whether there are publicly available environmental impact reports; whether the company has a poor environmental track record, such as violations of federal and state regulations or accidental spills; and the current status of legislation regarding drilling in ANWR.
CERES PRINCIPLES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to adopt the CERES Principles, taking into account: The company's current environmental disclosure beyond legal requirements, including environmental health and safety (EHS) audits and reports that may duplicate CERES; the company's environmental performance record, including violations of federal and state regulations, level of toxic emissions, and accidental spills; environmentally conscious practices of peer companies, including endorsement of CERES; costs of membership and implementation.
ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTS
Generally vote FOR requests for reports disclosing the company's environmental policies unless it already has well-documented environmental management systems that are available to the public.
GLOBAL WARMING
Generally vote FOR reports on the level of greenhouse gas emissions from the company's operations and products, unless the report is duplicative of the company's current environmental disclosure and reporting or is not integral to the company's line of business. However, additional reporting may be warranted if: The company's level of disclosure lags that of its competitors, or the company has a poor environmental track record, such as violations of federal and state regulations.
RECYCLING
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to adopt a comprehensive recycling strategy, taking into account: The nature of the company's business and the percentage affected; the extent that peer companies are recycling; the timetable prescribed by the proposal; the costs and methods of implementation; whether the company has a poor environmental track record, such as violations of federal and state regulations.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to invest in renewable energy sources, taking into account: The nature of the company's business and the percentage affected; the extent that peer companies are switching from fossil fuels to cleaner sources; the timetable and specific action prescribed by the proposal; the costs of implementation; the company's initiatives to address climate change.
Generally vote FOR requests for reports on the feasibility of developing renewable energy sources, unless the report is duplicative of the company's current environmental disclosure and reporting or is not integral to the company's line of business.
GENERAL CORPORATE ISSUES
LINK EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION TO SOCIAL PERFORMANCE
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to review ways of linking executive compensation to social factors, such as corporate downsizings, customer or employee satisfaction, community involvement, human rights, environmental performance, predatory lending, and executive/employee pay disparities. Such resolutions should be evaluated in the context of: The relevance of the issue to be linked to pay; the degree that social performance is already included in the company's pay structure and disclosed; the degree that social performance is used by peer companies in setting pay; violations or complaints filed against the company relating to the particular social performance measure; artificial limits sought by the proposal, such as freezing or capping executive pay; independence of the compensation committee; current company pay levels.
CHARITABLE/POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS
Generally vote AGAINST proposals asking the company to affirm political nonpartisanship in the workplace so long as: The company is in compliance with laws governing corporate political activities, and the company has procedures in place to ensure that employee contributions to company-sponsored political action committees (PACs) are strictly voluntary and not coercive.
Vote AGAINST proposals to report or publish in newspapers the company's political contributions. Federal and state laws restrict the amount of corporate contributions and include reporting requirements.
Vote AGAINST proposals disallowing the company from making political contributions. Businesses are affected by legislation at the federal, state, and local level and barring contributions can put the company at a competitive disadvantage.
Vote AGAINST proposals restricting the company from making charitable contributions. Charitable contributions are generally useful for assisting worthwhile causes and for creating goodwill in the community. In the absence of bad faith, self-dealing, or gross negligence, management should determine which contributions are in the best interests of the company.
Vote AGAINST proposals asking for a list of company executives, directors, consultants, legal counsels, lobbyists, or investment bankers that have prior government service and whether such service had a bearing on the business of the company. Such a list would be burdensome to prepare without providing any meaningful information to shareholders.
LABOR STANDARDS AND HUMAN RIGHTS
CHINA PRINCIPLES
Vote AGAINST proposals to implement the China Principles unless: There are serious controversies surrounding the company's China operations, and the company does not have a code of conduct with standards similar to those promulgated by the International Labor Organization (ILO).
COUNTRY-SPECIFIC HUMAN RIGHTS REPORTS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on requests for reports detailing the company's operations in a particular country and steps to protect human rights, based on: The nature and amount of company business in that country; the company's workplace code of conduct; proprietary and confidential information involved; company compliance with U.S. regulations on investing in the country; level of peer company involvement in the country.
INTERNATIONAL CODES OF CONDUCT/VENDOR STANDARDS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to implement certain human rights standards at company facilities or those of its suppliers and to commit to outside, independent monitoring. In evaluating these proposals, the following should be considered: The company's current workplace code of conduct or adherence to other global standards and the degree they meet the standards promulgated by the proponent; agreements with foreign suppliers to meet certain workplace standards; whether company and vendor facilities are monitored and how; company participation in fair labor organizations; type of business; proportion of business conducted overseas; countries of operation with known human rights abuses; whether the company has been recently involved in significant labor and human rights controversies or violations; peer company standards and practices; union presence in company's international factories.
Generally vote FOR reports outlining vendor standards compliance unless any of the following apply: The company does not operate in countries with significant human rights violations: he company has no recent human rights controversies or violations, or the company already publicly discloses information on its vendor standards compliance.
MACBRIDE PRINCIPLES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to endorse or increase activity on the MacBride Principles, taking into account: Company compliance with or violations of the Fair Employment Act of 1989; company antidiscrimination policies that already exceed the legal requirements; the cost and feasibility of adopting all nine principles; the cost of duplicating efforts to follow two sets of standards (Fair Employment and the MacBride Principles); the potential for charges of reverse discrimination; the potential that any company sales or contracts in the rest of the United Kingdom could be negatively impacted; the level of the company's investment in Northern Ireland; the number of company employees in Northern Ireland; the degree that industry peers have adopted the MacBride Principles; applicable state and municipal laws that limit contracts with companies that have not adopted the MacBride Principles.
MILITARY BUSINESS
FOREIGN MILITARY SALES/OFFSETS
Vote AGAINST reports on foreign military sales or offsets. Such disclosures may involve sensitive and confidential information. Moreover, companies must comply with government controls and reporting on foreign military sales.
LANDMINES AND CLUSTER BOMBS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking a company to renounce future involvement in antipersonnel landmine production, taking into account: whether the company has in the past manufactured landmine components; whether the company's peers have renounced future production.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking a company to renounce future involvement in cluster bomb production, taking into account: What weapons classifications the proponent views as cluster bombs; whether the company currently or in the past has manufactured cluster bombs or their components; the percentage of revenue derived from cluster bomb manufacture; whether the company's peers have renounced future production.
NUCLEAR WEAPONS
Vote AGAINST proposals asking a company to cease production of nuclear weapons components and delivery systems, including disengaging from current and proposed contracts. Components and delivery systems serve multiple military and non-military uses, and withdrawal from these contracts could have a negative impact on the company's business.
SPACED-BASED WEAPONIZATION
Generally vote FOR reports on a company's involvement in spaced-based weaponization unless: The information is already publicly available or the disclosures sought could compromise proprietary information.
WORKPLACE DIVERSITY
BOARD DIVERSITY
Generally vote FOR reports on the company's efforts to diversify the board, unless: The board composition is reasonably inclusive in relation to companies of similar size and business or; the board already reports on its nominating procedures and diversity initiatives.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking the company to increase the representation of women and minorities on the board, taking into account: The degree of board diversity; comparison with peer companies; established process for improving board diversity; existence of independent nominating committee; use of outside search firm; history of EEO violations.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO)
Generally vote FOR reports outlining the company's affirmative action initiatives unless all of the following apply: The company has well-documented equal opportunity programs; the company already publicly reports on its company-wide affirmative initiatives and provides data on its workforce diversity; and the company has no recent EEO-related violations or litigation.
Vote AGAINST proposals seeking information on the diversity efforts of suppliers and service providers, which can pose a significant cost and administration burden on the company.
GLASS CEILING
Generally vote FOR reports outlining the company's progress towards the Glass Ceiling Commission's business recommendations, unless: The composition of senior management and the board is fairly inclusive; the company has well-documented programs addressing diversity initiatives and leadership development; the company already issues public reports on its company-wide affirmative initiatives and provides data on its workforce diversity; and the company has had no recent, significant EEO-related violations or litigation.
SEXUAL ORIENTATION
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to amend the company's EEO policy to include sexual orientation, taking into account: Whether the company's EEO policy is already in compliance with federal, state and local laws; whether the company has faced significant controversies or litigation regarding unfair treatment of gay and lesbian employees; the industry norm for including sexual orientation in EEO statements; existing policies in place to prevent workplace discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Vote AGAINST proposals to extend company benefits to or eliminate benefits from domestic partners. Benefit decisions should be left to the discretion of the company.
10. MUTUAL FUND PROXIES
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Vote to elect directors on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Board structure; director independence and qualifications; attendance at board and committee meetings.
Votes should be withheld from directors who: Attend less than 75 percent of the board and committee meetings without a valid excuse for the absences. Valid reasons include illness or absence due to company business. Participation via telephone is acceptable. In addition, if the director missed only one meeting or one day's meetings, votes should not be withheld even if such absence dropped the director's attendance below 75 percent; ignore a shareholder proposal that is approved by a majority of shares outstanding; iIgnore a shareholder proposal that is approved by a majority of the votes cast for two consecutive years; are interested directors and sit on the audit or nominating committee; or are interested directors and the full board serves as the audit or nominating committee or the company does not have one of these committees.
CONVERT CLOSED-END FUND TO OPEN-END FUND
Vote conversion proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Past performance as a closed-end fund; market in which the fund invests; measures taken by the board to address the discount; past shareholder activism, board activity; votes on related proposals.
PROXY CONTESTS
Votes on proxy contests should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Past performance relative to its peers; market in which fund invests; measures taken by the board to address the issues; past shareholder activism, board activity, and votes on related proposals; strategy of the incumbents versus the dissidents; independence of directors; experience and skills of director candidates; governance profile of the company; evidence of management entrenchment.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS
Votes on investment advisory agreements should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Proposed and current fee schedules; fund category/investment objective; performance benchmarks; share price performance compared to peers; resulting fees relative to peers; assignments (where the advisor undergoes a change of control).
APPROVE NEW CLASSES OR SERIES OF SHARES
Vote FOR the establishment of new classes or series of shares.
PREFERRED STOCK PROPOSALS
Votes on the authorization for or increase in preferred shares should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Stated specific financing purpose; possible dilution for common shares; whether the shares can be used for antitakeover purposes.
1940 ACT POLICIES
Votes on 1940 Act policies should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: potential competitiveness; regulatory developments; current and potential returns; current and potential risk.
Generally vote FOR these amendments as long as the proposed changes do not fundamentally alter the investment focus of the fund and do comply with the current SEC interpretation.
CHANGE FUNDAMENTAL RESTRICTION TO NONFUNDAMENTAL RESTRICTION
Proposals to change a fundamental restriction to a nonfundamental restriction
should be evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
The fund's target investments; the reasons given by the fund for the change; the
projected impact of the change on the portfolio.
CHANGE FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE TO NONFUNDAMENTAL
Vote AGAINST proposals to change a fund's fundamental investment objective to nonfundamental.
NAME CHANGE PROPOSALS
Votes on name change proposals should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Political/economic changes in the target market; consolidation in the target market; current asset composition.
CHANGE IN FUND'S SUBCLASSIFICATION
Votes on changes in a fund's subclassification should be determined on a CASE-BYCASE basis, considering the following factors: Potential competitiveness; current and potential returns; risk of concentration; consolidation in target industry.
DISPOSITION OF ASSETS/TERMINATION/LIQUIDATION
Vote these proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
Strategies employed to salvage the company; the fund's past performance; terms
of the liquidation.
CHANGES TO THE CHARTER DOCUMENT
Votes on changes to the charter document should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: the degree of change implied by the proposal; the efficiencies that could result; the state of incorporation; regulatory standards and implications.
Vote AGAINST any of the following changes: Removal of shareholder approval requirement to reorganize or terminate the trust or any of its series; removal of shareholder approval requirement for amendments to the new declaration of trust; removal of shareholder approval requirement to amend the fund's management contract, allowing the contract to be modified by the investment manager and the trust management, as permitted by the 1940 Act; allow the trustees to impose other fees in addition to sales charges on investment in a fund, such as deferred sales charges and redemption fees that may be imposed upon redemption of a fund's shares; removal of shareholder approval requirement to engage in and terminate subadvisory arrangements' removal of shareholder approval requirement to change the domicile of the fund.
CHANGE THE FUND'S DOMICILE
Vote reincorporations on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Regulations of both states; required fundamental policies of both states; increased flexibility available.
AUTHORIZE THE BOARD TO HIRE AND TERMINATE SUBADVISORS WITHOUT SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL
Vote AGAINST proposals authorizing the board to hire/terminate subadvisors without shareholder approval.
DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENTS
Vote these proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
Fees charged to comparably sized funds with similar objectives; the proposed
distributor's reputation and past performance; the competitiveness of the fund
in the industry; terms of the agreement.
MASTER-FEEDER STRUCTURE
Vote FOR the establishment of a master-feeder structure.
MERGERS
Vote merger proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Resulting fee structure; performance of both funds; continuity of management personnel; changes in corporate governance and their impact on shareholder rights.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS TO ESTABLISH DIRECTOR OWNERSHIP REQUIREMENT
Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals that mandate a specific minimum amount of stock that directors must own in order to qualify as a director or to remain on the board. While ISS favors stock ownership on the part of directors, the company should determine the appropriate ownership requirement.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS TO REIMBURSE PROXY SOLICITATION EXPENSES
Voting to reimburse proxy solicitation expenses should be analyzed on a CASE-BY-CASE basis. In cases where ISS recommends in favor of the dissidents, we also recommend voting for reimbursing proxy solicitation expenses.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS TO TERMINATE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Vote to terminate the investment advisor on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: Performance of the fund's NAV; the fund's history of shareholder relations; the performance of other funds under the advisor's management.
WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP
GLOBAL PROXY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
INTRODUCTION
Wellington Management Company, LLP ("Wellington Management") has adopted and implemented policies and procedures that it believes are reasonably designed to ensure that proxies are voted in the best economic interests of its clients around the world.
Wellington Management's Global Proxy Voting Guidelines, included as Exhibit A of these Global Proxy Policies and Procedures, set forth the guidelines that Wellington Management uses in voting specific proposals presented by the boards of directors or shareholders of companies whose securities are held in client portfolios for which Wellington Management has voting discretion. While the Global Proxy Voting Guidelines set forth general guidelines for voting proxies, it should be noted that these are guidelines and not rigid rules. Many of the guidelines are accompanied by explanatory language that describes criteria that may affect our vote decision. The criteria as described are to be read as part of the guideline, and votes cast according to the criteria will be considered within guidelines. In some circumstances, the merits of a particular proposal may cause us to enter a vote that differs from the Global Proxy Voting Guidelines.
STATEMENT OF POLICIES
As a matter of policy, Wellington Management:
1. Takes responsibility for voting client proxies only upon a client's written request.
2. Votes all proxies in the best interests of its clients as shareholders, i.e., to maximize economic value.
3. Develops and maintains broad guidelines setting out positions on common proxy issues, but also considers each proposal in the context of the issuer, industry, and country or countries in which its business is conducted.
4. Evaluates all factors it deems relevant when considering a vote, and may determine in certain instances that it is in the best interest of one or more clients to refrain from voting a given proxy ballot.
5. Identifies and resolves all material proxy-related conflicts of interest between the firm and its clients in the best interests of the client.
6. Believes that sound corporate governance practices can enhance shareholder value and therefore encourages consideration of an issuer's corporate governance as part of the investment process.
7. Believes that proxy voting is a valuable tool that can be used to promote sound corporate governance to the ultimate benefit of the client as shareholder.
8. Provides all clients, upon request, with copies of these Global Proxy Policies and Procedures, the Global Proxy Voting Guidelines, and related reports, with such frequency as required to fulfill obligations under applicable law or as reasonably requested by clients.
9. Reviews regularly the voting record to ensure that proxies are voted in accordance with these Global Proxy Policies and Procedures and the Global Proxy Voting Guidelines; and ensures that procedures, documentation, and reports relating to the voting of proxies are promptly and properly prepared and disseminated.
RESPONSIBILITY AND OVERSIGHT
Wellington Management has a Corporate Governance Committee, established by action of the firm's Executive Committee, that is responsible for the review and approval of the firm's written Global Proxy Policies and Procedures and its Global Proxy Voting Guidelines, and for providing advice and guidance on specific proxy votes for individual issuers. The firm's Legal Services Department monitors regulatory requirements with respect to proxy voting on a global basis and works with the Corporate Governance Committee to develop policies that implement those requirements. Day-to-day administration of the proxy voting process at Wellington Management is the responsibility of the Corporate Governance Group within the Corporate Operations Department. In addition, the Corporate Governance Group acts as a resource for portfolio managers and research analysts on proxy matters, as needed.
STATEMENT OF PROCEDURES
Wellington Management has in place certain procedures for implementing its proxy voting policies.
General Proxy Voting
AUTHORIZATION TO VOTE. Wellington Management will vote only those proxies for which its clients have affirmatively delegated proxy-voting authority.
RECEIPT OF PROXY. Proxy materials from an issuer or its information agent are forwarded to registered owners of record, typically the client's custodian bank. If a client requests that Wellington Management votes proxies on its behalf, the client must instruct its custodian bank to deliver all relevant voting material to Wellington Management or its voting agent. Wellington Management, or its voting agent, may receive this voting information by mail, fax, or other electronic means.
RECONCILIATION. To the extent reasonably practicable, each proxy received is matched to the securities eligible to be voted and a reminder is sent to any custodian or trustee that has not forwarded the proxies as due.
RESEARCH. In addition to proprietary investment research undertaken by Wellington Management investment professionals, the firm conducts proxy research internally, and uses the resources of a number of external sources to keep abreast of developments in corporate governance around the world and of current practices of specific companies.
PROXY VOTING. Following the reconciliation process, each proxy is compared against Wellington Management's Global Proxy Voting Guidelines, and handled as follows:
- Generally, issues for which explicit proxy voting guidance is provided in the Global Proxy Voting Guidelines (i.e., "For", "Against", "Abstain") are reviewed by the Corporate Governance Group and voted in accordance with the Global Proxy Voting Guidelines.
- Issues identified as "case-by-case" in the Global Proxy Voting Guidelines are further reviewed by the Corporate Governance Group. In certain circumstances, further input is needed, so the issues are forwarded to the relevant research analyst and/or portfolio manager(s) for their input.
- Absent a material conflict of interest, the portfolio manager has the authority to decide the final vote. Different portfolio managers holding the same securities may arrive at different voting conclusions for their clients' proxies.
MATERIAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST IDENTIFICATION AND RESOLUTION PROCESSES. Wellington Management's broadly diversified client base and functional lines of responsibility serve to minimize the number of, but not prevent, material conflicts of interest it faces in voting proxies. Annually, the Corporate Governance Committee sets standards for identifying material conflicts based on client, vendor, and lender relationships, and publishes those standards to individuals involved in the proxy voting process. In addition, the Corporate Governance Committee encourages all personnel to contact the Corporate Governance Group about apparent conflicts of interest, even if the apparent conflict does not meet the published materiality criteria. Apparent conflicts are reviewed by designated members of the Corporate Governance Committee to determine if there is a conflict, and if so whether the conflict is material.
If a proxy is identified as presenting a material conflict of interest, the matter must be reviewed by designated members of the Corporate Governance Committee, who will resolve the conflict and direct the vote. In certain circumstances, the designated members may determine that the full Corporate Governance Committee should convene. Any Corporate Governance Committee member who is himself or herself subject to the identified conflict will not participate in the decision on whether and how to vote the proxy in question.
Other Considerations
In certain instances, Wellington Management may be unable to vote or may determine not to vote a proxy on behalf of one or more clients. While not exhaustive, the following list of considerations highlights some potential instances in which a proxy vote might not be entered.
SECURITIES LENDING. Wellington Management may be unable to vote proxies when the underlying securities have been lent out pursuant to a client's securities lending program. In general, Wellington Management does not know when securities have been lent out and are therefore unavailable to be voted. Efforts to recall loaned securities are not always effective, but, in rare circumstances, Wellington Management may recommend that a client attempt to have its custodian recall the security to permit voting of related proxies.
SHARE BLOCKING AND RE-REGISTRATION. Certain countries require shareholders to stop trading securities for a period of time prior to and/or after a shareholder meeting in that country (i.e., share blocking). When reviewing proxies in share blocking countries, Wellington Management evaluates each proposal in light of the trading restrictions imposed and determines whether a proxy issue is sufficiently important that Wellington Management would consider the possibility of blocking shares. The portfolio manager retains the final authority to determine whether to block the shares in the client's portfolio or to pass on voting the meeting.
In certain countries, re-registration of shares is required to enter a proxy vote. As with share blocking, re-registration can prevent Wellington Management from exercising its investment discretion to sell shares held in a client's portfolio for a substantial period of time. The decision process in blocking countries as discussed above is also employed in instances where re-registration is necessary.
LACK OF ADEQUATE INFORMATION, UNTIMELY RECEIPT OF PROXY MATERIALS, OR EXCESSIVE COSTS. Wellington Management may be unable to enter an informed vote in certain circumstances due to the lack of information provided in the proxy statement or by the issuer or other resolution sponsor, and may abstain from voting in those instances. Proxy materials not delivered in a timely fashion may prevent analysis or entry of a vote by voting deadlines. In addition, Wellington Management's practice is to abstain from voting a proxy in circumstances where, in its judgment, the costs exceed the expected benefits to clients.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Wellington Management maintains records of proxies voted pursuant to Section 204-2 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (the "Advisers Act"), the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), and other applicable laws.
Wellington Management's Global Proxy Policies and Procedures may be amended from time to time by Wellington Management. Wellington Management provides clients with a copy of its Global Proxy Policies and Procedures, including the Global Proxy Voting Guidelines, upon written request. In addition, Wellington Management will make specific client information relating to proxy voting available to a client upon reasonable written request.
WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP
GLOBAL PROXY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
EXHIBIT A - GLOBAL PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES
INTRODUCTION
Upon a client's written request, Wellington Management Company, LLP ("Wellington Management") votes securities that are held in the client's account in response to proxies solicited by the issuers of such securities. Wellington Management established these Global Proxy Voting Guidelines to document positions generally taken on common proxy issues voted on behalf of clients.
These Guidelines are based on Wellington Management's fiduciary obligation to act in the best economic interest of its clients as shareholders. Hence, Wellington Management examines and votes each proposal so that the long-term effect of the vote will ultimately increase shareholder value for our clients. Wellington Management's experience in voting proposals has shown that similar proposals often have different consequences for different companies. Moreover, while these Global Proxy Voting Guidelines are written to apply globally, differences in local practice and law make universal application impractical. Therefore, each proposal is evaluated on its merits, taking into account its effects on the specific company in question, and on the company within its industry. It should be noted that the following are guidelines, and not rigid rules, and Wellington Management reserves the right in all cases to vote contrary to guidelines where doing so is judged to represent the best economic interest of its clients.
Following is a list of common proposals and the guidelines on how Wellington Management anticipates voting on these proposals. The "(SP)" after a proposal indicates that the proposal is usually presented as a Shareholder Proposal.
VOTING GUIDELINES
COMPOSITION AND ROLE OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
- Election of Directors: Case-by-Case |
Wellington Management believes that shareholders' ability to elect directors annually is the most important right shareholders have. We generally support management nominees, but will withhold votes from any director who is demonstrated to have acted contrary to the best economic interest of shareholders. We may withhold votes from directors who failed to implement shareholder proposals that received majority support, implemented dead-hand or no-hand poison pills, or failed to attend at least 75% of scheduled board meetings. - Classify Board of Directors: Against We will also vote in favor of shareholder proposals seeking to declassify boards. - Adopt Director Tenure/Retirement Age (SP): Against - Adopt Director & Officer Indemnification: For We generally support director and officer indemnification as critical to the attraction and retention of qualified candidates to the board. Such proposals must incorporate the duty of care. - Allow Special Interest Representation to Board (SP): Against - Require Board Independence: For Wellington Management believes that, in the absence of a compelling counter-argument or prevailing market norms, at least 65% of a board should be comprised of independent directors, with independence defined by the local market regulatory authority. Our support for this level of independence may include withholding approval for non-independent directors, as well as votes in support of shareholder proposals calling for independence. - Require Key Board Committees to be Independent. For Key board committees are the Nominating, Audit, and Compensation Committees. Exceptions will be made, as above, in respect of local market conventions. - Require a Separation of Chair and CEO or Require a Lead Director: For - Approve Directors' Fees: For - Approve Bonuses for Retiring Directors: Case-by-Case - Elect Supervisory Board/Corporate Assembly: For - Elect/Establish Board Committee: For - Adopt Shareholder Access/Majority Vote on Election of Directors (SP): Case-by-Case Wellington Management believes that the election of directors by a majority of votes cast is the appropriate standard for companies to adopt and therefore generally will support those proposals that seek to adopt such a standard. Our support for such proposals will extend typically to situations where the relevant company has an existing resignation policy in place for directors that receive a majority of "withhold" votes. We believe that it is important for majority voting to be defined within the company's charter and not simply within the company's corporate governance policy. Generally we will not support proposals that fail to provide for the exceptional use of a plurality standard in the case of contested elections. Further, we will not support proposals that seek to adopt a majority of votes outstanding (i.e., total votes eligible to be cast as opposed to actually cast) standard. MANAGEMENT COMPENSATION - Adopt/Amend Stock Option Plans: Case-by-Case - Adopt/Amend Employee Stock Purchase Plans: For - Approve/Amend Bonus Plans: Case-by-Case In the US, Bonus Plans are customarily presented for shareholder approval pursuant to Section 162(m) of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1992 ("OBRA"). OBRA stipulates that certain forms of compensation are not tax-deductible unless approved by shareholders and subject to performance criteria. Because OBRA does not prevent the payment of subject compensation, we generally vote "for" these proposals. Nevertheless, occasionally these proposals are presented in a bundled form seeking 162 (m) approval and approval of a stock option plan. In such cases, failure of the proposal prevents the awards from being granted. We will vote against these proposals where the grant portion of the proposal fails our guidelines for the evaluation of stock option plans. - Approve Remuneration Policy: Case-by-Case - Exchange Underwater Options: Case-by-Case Wellington Management may support value-neutral exchanges in which senior management is ineligible to participate. - Eliminate or Limit Severance Agreements (Golden Parachutes): Case-by-Case We will oppose excessively generous arrangements, but may support agreements structured to encourage management to negotiate in shareholders' best economic interest. - Shareholder Approval of Future Severance Agreements Covering Senior Case-by-Case Executives (SP): We believe that severance arrangements require special scrutiny, and are generally supportive of proposals that call for shareholder ratification thereof. But, we are also mindful of the board's need for flexibility in recruitment and retention and will therefore oppose limitations on board compensation policy where respect for industry practice and reasonable overall levels of compensation have been demonstrated. |
- Expense Future Stock Options (SP): For - Shareholder Approval of All Stock Option Plans (SP): For - Disclose All Executive Compensation (SP): For REPORTING OF RESULTS - Approve Financial Statements: For - Set Dividends and Allocate Profits: For - Limit Non-Audit Services Provided by Auditors (SP): Case-by-Case We follow the guidelines established by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding permissible levels of non-audit fees payable to auditors. - Ratify Selection of Auditors and Set Their Fees: Case-by-Case Wellington Management will generally support management's choice of auditors, unless the auditors have demonstrated failure to act in shareholders' best economic interest. - Elect Statutory Auditors: Case-by-Case - Shareholder Approval of Auditors (SP): For SHAREHOLDER VOTING RIGHTS - Adopt Cumulative Voting (SP): Against We are likely to support cumulative voting proposals at "controlled" companies (i.e., companies with a single majority shareholder), or at companies with two-tiered voting rights. - Shareholder Rights Plans Case-by-Case Also known as Poison Pills, these plans can enable boards of directors to negotiate higher takeover prices on behalf of shareholders. However, these plans also may be misused to entrench management. The following criteria are used to evaluate both management and shareholder proposals regarding shareholder rights plans. - We generally support plans that include: - Shareholder approval requirement - Sunset provision - Permitted bid feature (i.e., bids that are made for all shares and demonstrate evidence of financing must be submitted to a shareholder vote). Because boards generally have the authority to adopt shareholder rights plans without shareholder approval, we are equally vigilant in our assessment of requests for authorization of blank check preferred shares (see below). - Authorize Blank Check Preferred Stock: Case-by-Case We may support authorization requests that specifically proscribe the use of such shares for anti-takeover purposes. - Eliminate Right to Call a Special Meeting: Against - Increase Supermajority Vote Requirement: Against We likely will support shareholder and management proposals to remove existing supermajority vote requirements. - Adopt Anti-Greenmail Provision: For - Adopt Confidential Voting (SP): Case-by-Case We require such proposals to include a provision to suspend confidential voting during contested elections so that management is not subject to constraints that do not apply to dissidents. - Remove Right to Act by Written Consent: Against CAPITAL STRUCTURE - Increase Authorized Common Stock: Case-by-Case We generally support requests for increases up to 100% of the shares currently authorized. Exceptions will be made when the company has clearly articulated a reasonable need for a greater increase. - Approve Merger or Acquisition: Case-by-Case - Approve Technical Amendments to Charter: Case-by-Case - Opt Out of State Takeover Statutes: For - Authorize Share Repurchase: For - Authorize Trade in Company Stock: For - Approve Stock Splits: Case-by-Case We approve stock splits and reverse stock splits that preserve the level of authorized, but unissued shares. - Approve Recapitalization/Restructuring: Case-by-Case - Issue Stock with or without Preemptive Rights: For - Issue Debt Instruments: Case-by-Case SOCIAL ISSUES - Endorse the Ceres Principles (SP): Case-by-Case - Disclose Political and PAC Gifts (SP): Case-by-Case |
Wellington Management generally does not support imposition of disclosure requirements on management of companies in excess of regulatory requirements. - Require Adoption of International Labor Organization's Fair Labor Case-by-Case Principles (SP): - Report on Sustainability (SP): Case-by-Case MISCELLANEOUS - Approve Other Business: Against - Approve Reincorporation: Case-by-Case - Approve Third-Party Transactions: Case-by-Case |
PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLC
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Paradigm Asset Management Company, L.L.C. ("Adviser") provides investment advisory services to a private investment fund and managed accounts, and invests the assets of the fund and accounts in securities issued by public issuers. The Adviser has authority to vote proxies relating to such securities on behalf of the fund and accounts it manages.
I. GENERAL POLICY
The general policy is to vote proxy proposals, amendments, consents or resolutions relating to client securities, including interests in private investment funds, if any, (collectively, "proxies"), in a manner that serves the best interests of the fund and accounts managed by the Adviser, as determined by the Adviser in its discretion, taking into account relevant factors, including, but not limited to:
A. the impact on the value of the securities;
B. the anticipated costs and benefits associated with the proposal;
C. the effect on liquidity; and
D. customary industry and business practices.
II. PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES
A. Adviser has determined that, except as set forth below, proxies will be voted in accordance with the voting recommendations contained in the applicable domestic or global Institutional Shareholder Services ("ISS") Proxy Voting Manual, as in effect from time to time. A summary of the current applicable ISS proxy voting guidelines is attached to these Voting Policies and Procedures as Exhibit A.
B. In the event the foregoing proxy voting guidelines do not address how a proxy should be voted, the proxy will be voted in accordance with ISS recommendations. In the event that ISS refrains from making a recommendation the Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO") in consultation with the portfolio manager ("PM") covering the subject security shall vote the proxy consistent with the general principles of these Policies and Procedures and in the client's best interest, provided that the CCO and PM determines that there is no material conflict of interest between Adviser and the client or clients with respect to the voting of the proxy.
C. There may be circumstances under which the portfolio manager or other investment professional ("Investment Professional") believes that it is in the best interest of a client or clients to vote proxies in a manner inconsistent with the foregoing proxy voting guidelines or in a manner inconsistent with ISS recommendations. Departures from these policies and procedures are expected to be rare but in such events Adviser will maintain a record supporting such a vote.
III. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
A. Adviser has obtained a copy of ISS Policies, Procedures and Practices regarding potential conflicts of interest that could arise in ISS proxy voting services to Adviser as a result of business conducted by ISS. Adviser believes that potential conflicts of interest by ISS are minimized by these Policies, Procedures and Practices.
B. Adviser will vote proxies in accordance with the proxy voting guidelines described in Section 3 or as ISS recommends, Adviser believes that this process is reasonably designed to address material conflicts of interest that may arise between Adviser and a client as to how proxies are voted.
C. In the unusual circumstance that (i) an Investment Professional believes it is in the best interest of a client or clients to vote proxies in a manner inconsistent with the proxy voting guidelines described in Section 3 or in a manner inconsistent with ISS recommendations, or (ii) the proxy voting guidelines described in Section 3 do not address how a proxy should be voted, the CCO and PM will review the proxy and assess the extent to which there may be a material conflict of interest between Adviser and the client or clients.
In the event that the CCO and PM determine that the voting of a proxy as recommended by the Investment Professional presents a material conflict of interest between Adviser and the client or clients, Adviser shall: (i) in cases where ISS had made a recommendation, take no further action, in which case ISS shall vote such proxy in accordance with the proxy voting guidelines described in Section 3 or as ISS recommends; (ii) disclose such conflict to the client or clients and obtain written direction from the client as to how to vote the proxy;
(iii) suggest that the client or clients engage another party to determine how to vote the proxy; or (iv) engage another independent third party to determine how to vote the proxy.
D. Material conflicts cannot be resolved by simply abstaining from voting.
IV. RECORDKEEPING
Adviser will maintain records relating to the implementation of these proxy voting policies and procedures, including:
(1) a copy of these policies and procedures which shall be made available to clients, upon request;
(2) proxy statements received regarding client securities (which will be satisfied by relying on EDGAR or ISS);
(3) a record of each vote cast (which ISS maintains on Adviser's behalf);
(4) a copy of any document created by Adviser that was material to making a decision as to how to vote a proxy on behalf of a client or that memorializes the basis for that decision; and
(5) each written client request for proxy voting records and Adviser's written response to any client request (written or oral) for such records.
Such proxy voting books and records shall be maintained in an easily accessible place for a period of five years.
Dated as of October 5, 2004 (Last updated as of June 2, 2006)
PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLC
EXHIBIT A - PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES
1. OPERATIONAL ITEMS
ADJOURN MEETING
Generally vote AGAINST proposals to provide management with the authority to adjourn an annual or special meeting absent compelling reasons to support the proposal.
AMEND QUORUM REQUIREMENTS
Vote AGAINST proposals to reduce quorum requirements for shareholder meetings below a majority of the shares outstanding unless there are compelling reasons to support the proposal.
AMEND MINOR BYLAWS
Vote FOR bylaw or charter changes that are of a housekeeping nature (updates or corrections).
CHANGE COMPANY NAME
Vote FOR proposals to change the corporate name.
CHANGE DATE, TIME, OR LOCATION OF ANNUAL MEETING
Vote FOR management proposals to change the date/time/location of the annual meeting unless the proposed change is unreasonable.
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals to change the date/time/location of the annual meeting unless the current scheduling or location is unreasonable.
RATIFYING AUDITORS
Vote FOR proposals to ratify auditors, unless any of the following apply:
- An auditor has a financial interest in or association with the company, and is therefore not independent
- Fees for non-audit services are excessive, or
- There is reason to believe that the independent auditor has rendered an opinion which is neither accurate nor indicative of the company's financial position.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals asking companies to prohibit or limit their auditors from engaging in non-audit services.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals asking for audit firm rotation, taking into account the tenure of the audit firm, the length of rotation specified in the proposal, any significant audit-related issues at the company, and whether the company has a periodic renewal process where the auditor is evaluated for both audit quality and competitive price.
TRANSACT OTHER BUSINESS
Vote AGAINST proposals to approve other business when it appears as voting item.
2. BOARD OF DIRECTORS
VOTING ON DIRECTOR NOMINEES IN UNCONTESTED ELECTIONS
Votes on director nominees should be made on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, examining the following factors: composition of the board and key board committees, attendance at board meetings, corporate governance provisions and takeover activity, long-term company performance relative to a market index, directors' investment in the company, whether the chairman is also serving as CEO, and whether a retired CEO sits on the board. However, there are some actions by directors that should result in votes being withheld. These instances include directors who:
- Attend less than 75 percent of the board and committee meetings without a valid excuse
- Implement or renew a dead-hand or modified dead-hand poison pill
- Ignore a shareholder proposal that is approved by a majority of the shares outstanding
- Ignore a shareholder proposal that is approved by a majority of the votes cast for two consecutive years
- Failed to act on takeover offers where the majority of the shareholders tendered their shares
- Are inside directors or affiliated outsiders and sit on the audit, compensation, or nominating committees
- Are inside directors or affiliated outsiders and the full board serves as the audit, compensation, or nominating committee or the company does not have one of these committees
- Are audit committee members and the non -audit fees paid to the auditor are excessive.
In addition, directors who enacted egregious corporate governance policies or failed to replace management as appropriate would be subject to recommendations to withhold votes.
- Are inside directors or affiliated outside directors and the full board is less than majority independent
- Sit on more than six public company boards
AGE LIMITS
Vote AGAINST shareholder or management proposals to limit the tenure of outside directors either through term limits or mandatory retirement ages.
BOARD SIZE
Vote FOR proposals seeking to fix the board size or designate a range for the board size.
Vote AGAINST proposals that give management the ability to alter the size of the board outside of a specified range without shareholder approval.
CLASSIFICATION/DECLASSIFICATION OF THE BOARD
Vote AGAINST proposals to classify the board.
Vote FOR proposals to repeal classified boards and to elect all directors annually.
CUMULATIVE VOTING
Vote AGAINST proposals to eliminate cumulative voting.
Vote proposals to restore or permit cumulative voting on a CASE-BY-CASE basis based on the extent that shareholders have access to the board through their own nominations.
DIRECTOR AND OFFICER INDEMNIFICATION AND LIABILITY PROTECTION Proposals on director and officer indemnification and liability protection should be evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, using Delaware law as the standard.
Vote AGAINST proposals to eliminate entirely directors' and officers' liability for monetary damages for violating the duty of care.
Vote AGAINST indemnification proposals that would expand coverage beyond just legal expenses to acts, such as negligence, that are more serious violations of fiduciary obligation than mere carelessness.
Vote FOR only those proposals providing such expanded coverage in cases when a director's or officer's legal defense was unsuccessful if both of the following apply:
- The director was found to have acted in good faith and in a manner that he reasonably believed was in the best interests of the company, and
- Only if the director's legal expenses would be covered.
ESTABLISH/AMEND NOMINEE QUALIFICATIONS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals that establish or amend director qualifications. Votes should be based on how reasonable the criteria are and to what degree they may preclude dissident nominees from joining the board.
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals requiring two candidates per board seat.
FILLING VACANCIES/REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS
Vote AGAINST proposals that provide that directors may be removed only for cause.
Vote FOR proposals to restore shareholder ability to remove directors with or without cause.
Vote AGAINST proposals that provide that only continuing directors may elect replacements to fill board vacancies.
Vote FOR proposals that permit shareholders to elect directors to fill board vacancies.
INDEPENDENT CHAIRMAN (SEPARATE CHAIRMAN/CEO)
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals requiring the position of chairman be filled by an independent director unless there are compelling reasons to recommend against the proposal, such as a counterbalancing governance structure. This should include all of the following:
- Designated lead director, elected by and from the independent board members with clearly delineated and comprehensive duties. (The role may alternatively reside with a presiding director, vice chairman, or rotating lead director).
- Two-thirds independent board
- All-independent key committees
- Established governance guidelines
MAJORITY OF INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS/ESTABLISHMENT OF COMMITTEES
Vote FOR shareholder proposals asking that a majority or more of directors be independent unless the board composition already meets the proposed threshold by ISS's definition of independence.
Vote FOR shareholder proposals asking that board audit, compensation, and/or nominating committees be composed exclusively of independent directors if they currently do not meet that standard.
OPEN ACCESS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals asking for open access taking into account the ownership threshold specified in the proposal and the proponent's rationale for targeting the company in terms of board and director conduct.
STOCK OWNERSHIP REQUIREMENTS
Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals that mandate a minimum amount of stock that directors must own in order to qualify as a director or to remain on the board. While ISS favors stock ownership on the part of directors, the company should determine the appropriate ownership requirement.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE shareholder proposals asking that the company adopt a holding or retention period for its executives (for holding stock after the vesting or exercise of equity awards), taking into account any stock ownership requirements or holding period/retention ratio already in place and the actual ownership level of executives.
TERM LIMITS
Vote AGAINST shareholder or management proposals to limit the tenure of outside directors either through term limits or mandatory retirement ages.
3. PROXY CONTESTS
VOTING FOR DIRECTOR NOMINEES IN CONTESTED ELECTIONS
Votes in a contested election of directors must be evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
- Long-term financial performance of the target company relative to its industry; management's track record
- Background to the proxy contest
- Qualifications of director nominees (both slates)
- Evaluation of what each side is offering shareholders as well as the likelihood that the proposed objectives and goals can be met; and stock ownership positions.
REIMBURSING PROXY SOLICITATION EXPENSES
Voting to reimburse proxy solicitation expenses should be analyzed on a CASE-BY-CASE basis. In cases where ISS recommends in favor of the dissidents, we also recommend voting for reimbursing proxy solicitation expenses.
CONFIDENTIAL VOTING
Vote FOR shareholder proposals requesting that corporations adopt confidential voting, use independent vote tabulators and use independent inspectors of election, as long as the proposal includes a provision for proxy contests as follows: In the case of a contested election, management should be permitted to request that the dissident group honor its confidential voting policy. If the dissidents agree, the policy remains in place. If the dissidents will not agree, the confidential voting policy is waived.
Vote FOR management proposals to adopt confidential voting.
4. ANTITAKEOVER DEFENSES AND VOTING RELATED ISSUES
Advance Notice Requirements for Shareholder Proposals/Nominations
Votes on advance notice proposals are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, giving support to those proposals which allow shareholders to submit proposals as close to the meeting date as reasonably possible and within the broadest window possible.
AMEND BYLAWS WITHOUT SHAREHOLDER CONSENT
Vote AGAINST proposals giving the board exclusive authority to amend the bylaws.
Vote FOR proposals giving the board the ability to amend the bylaws in addition to shareholders.
POISON PILLS
Vote FOR shareholder proposals requesting that the company submit its poison pill to a shareholder vote or redeem it.
Vote FOR shareholder proposals asking that any future pill be put to a shareholder vote.
SHAREHOLDER ABILITY TO ACT BY WRITTEN CONSENT
Vote AGAINST proposals to restrict or prohibit shareholder ability to take action by written consent.
Vote FOR proposals to allow or make easier shareholder action by written consent.
SHAREHOLDER ABILITY TO CALL SPECIAL MEETINGS
Vote AGAINST proposals to restrict or prohibit shareholder ability to call special meetings.
Vote FOR proposals that remove restrictions on the right of shareholders to act independently of management.
SUPERMAJORITY VOTE REQUIREMENTS
Vote AGAINST proposals to require a supermajority shareholder vote.
Vote FOR proposals to lower supermajority vote requirements.
5. MERGERS AND CORPORATE RESTRUCTURINGS
APPRAISAL RIGHTS
Vote FOR proposals to restore, or provide shareholders with, rights of appraisal.
ASSET PURCHASES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on asset purchase proposals, considering the following factors:
- Purchase price
- Fairness opinion
- Financial and strategic benefits
- How the deal was negotiated
- Conflicts of interest
- Other alternatives for the business
- Noncompletion risk.
ASSET SALES
Votes on asset sales should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
- Impact on the balance sheet/working capital
- Potential elimination of diseconomies
- Anticipated financial and operating benefits
- Anticipated use of funds
- Value received for the asset
- Fairness opinion
- How the deal was negotiated
- Conflicts of interest.
BUNDLED PROPOSALS
Review on a CASE-BY-CASE basis bundled or "conditioned" proxy proposals. In the case of items that are conditioned upon each other, examine the benefits and costs of the packaged items. In instances when the joint effect of the conditioned items is not in shareholders' best interests, vote against the proposals. If the combined effect is positive, support such proposals.
CONVERSION OF SECURITIES
Votes on proposals regarding conversion of securities are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis. When evaluating these proposals the investor should review the dilution to existing shareholders, the conversion price relative to market value, financial issues, control issues, termination penalties, and conflicts of interest.
Vote FOR the conversion if it is expected that the company will be subject to onerous penalties or will be forced to file for bankruptcy if the transaction is not approved.
CORPORATE REORGANIZATION/DEBT RESTRUCTURING/PREPACKAGED BANKRUPTCY
PLANS/REVERSE LEVERAGED BUYOUTS/WRAP PLANS
Votes on proposals to increase common and/or preferred shares and to issue shares as part of a debt restructuring plan are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, taking into consideration the following:
- Dilution to existing shareholders' position
- Terms of the offer
- Financial issues
- Management's efforts to pursue other alternatives
- Control issues
- Conflicts of interest.
Vote FOR the debt restructuring if it is expected that the company will file for bankruptcy if the transaction is not approved.
FORMATION OF HOLDING COMPANY
Votes on proposals regarding the formation of a holding company should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, taking into consideration the following:
- The reasons for the change
- Any financial or tax benefits
- Regulatory benefits
- Increases in capital structure
- Changes to the articles of incorporation or bylaws of the company.
- Absent compelling financial reasons to recommend the transaction, vote AGAINST the formation of a holding company if the transaction would include either of the following:
- Increases in common or preferred stock in excess of the allowable maximum as calculated by the ISS Capital Structure model
- Adverse changes in shareholder rights
GOING PRIVATE TRANSACTIONS (LBOS AND MINORITY SQUEEZEOUTS)
Vote going private transactions on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, taking into account the following: offer price/premium, fairness opinion, how the deal was negotiated, conflicts of interest, other alternatives/offers considered, and noncompletion risk.
JOINT VENTURES
Votes CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to form joint ventures, taking into account the following: percentage of assets/business contributed, percentage ownership, financial and strategic benefits, governance structure, conflicts of interest, other alternatives, and noncompletion risk.
LIQUIDATIONS
Votes on liquidations should be made on a CASE-BY-CASE basis after reviewing management's efforts to pursue other alternatives, appraisal value of assets, and the compensation plan for executives managing the liquidation.
Vote FOR the liquidation if the company will file for bankruptcy if the proposal is not approved.
MERGERS AND ACQUISITIONS/ ISSUANCE OF SHARES TO FACILITATE MERGER OR ACQUISITION
Votes on mergers and acquisitions should be considered on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, determining whether the transaction enhances shareholder value by giving consideration to the following:
- Prospects of the combined company, anticipated financial and operating benefits
- Offer price
- Fairness opinion
- How the deal was negotiated
- Changes in corporate governance
- Change in the capital structure
- Conflicts of interest.
PRIVATE PLACEMENTS/WARRANTS/CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES
Votes on proposals regarding private placements should be determined on a
CASE-BY-CASE basis. When evaluating these proposals the investor should review:
dilution to existing shareholders' position, terms of the offer, financial
issues, management's efforts to pursue other alternatives, control issues, and
conflicts of interest.
Vote FOR the private placement if it is expected that the company will file for bankruptcy if the transaction is not approved.
SPINOFFS
Votes on spinoffs should be considered on a CASE-BY-CASE basis depending on:
- Tax and regulatory advantages
- Planned use of the sale proceeds
- Valuation of spinoff
- Fairness opinion
- Benefits to the parent company
- Conflicts of interest
- Managerial incentives
- Corporate governance changes
- Changes in the capital structure.
VALUE MAXIMIZATION PROPOSALS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals seeking to maximize shareholder value by hiring a financial advisor to explore strategic alternatives, selling the company or liquidating the company and distributing the proceeds to shareholders. These proposals should be evaluated based on the following factors: prolonged poor performance with no turnaround in sight, signs of entrenched board and management, strategic plan in place for improving value, likelihood of receiving reasonable value in a sale or dissolution, and whether company is actively exploring its strategic options, including retaining a financial advisor.
6. STATE OF INCORPORATION
CONTROL SHARE ACQUISITION PROVISIONS
Vote FOR proposals to opt out of control share acquisition statutes unless doing so would enable the completion of a takeover that would be detrimental to shareholders.
Vote AGAINST proposals to amend the charter to include control share acquisition provisions.
Vote FOR proposals to restore voting rights to the control shares.
CONTROL SHARE CASHOUT PROVISIONS
Vote FOR proposals to opt out of control share cashout statutes.
DISGORGEMENT PROVISIONS
Vote FOR proposals to opt out of state disgorgement provisions.
FAIR PRICE PROVISIONS
Vote proposals to adopt fair price provisions on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, evaluating factors such as the vote required to approve the proposed acquisition, the vote required to repeal the fair price provision, and the mechanism for determining the fair price.
Generally, vote AGAINST fair price provisions with shareholder vote requirements greater than a majority of disinterested shares.
FREEZEOUT PROVISIONS
Vote FOR proposals to opt out of state freezeout provisions.
GREENMAIL
Vote FOR proposals to adopt antigreenmail charter of bylaw amendments or otherwise restrict a company's ability to make greenmail payments.
Review on a CASE-BY-CASE basis antigreenmail proposals when they are bundled with other charter or bylaw amendments.
REINCORPORATION PROPOSALS
Proposals to change a company's state of incorporation should be evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, giving consideration to both financial and corporate governance concerns, including the reasons for reincorporating, a comparison of the governance provisions, and a comparison of the jurisdictional laws.
Vote FOR reincorporation when the economic factors outweigh any neutral or negative governance changes.
STAKEHOLDER PROVISIONS
Vote AGAINST proposals that ask the board to consider nonshareholder constituencies or other nonfinancial effects when evaluating a merger or business combination.
STATE ANTITAKEOVER STATUTES
Review on a CASE-BY-CASE basis proposals to opt in or out of state takeover statutes (including control share acquisition statutes, control share cash-out statutes, freezeout provisions, fair price provisions, stakeholder laws, poison pill endorsements, severance pay and labor contract provisions, antigreenmail provisions, and disgorgement provisions).
7. CAPITAL STRUCTURE
ADJUSTMENTS TO PAR VALUE OF COMMON STOCK
Vote FOR management proposals to reduce the par value of common stock.
COMMON STOCK AUTHORIZATION
Votes on proposals to increase the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis using a model developed by ISS.
Vote AGAINST proposals at companies with dual-class capital structures to increase the number of authorized shares of the class of stock that has superior voting rights.
Vote FOR proposals to approve increases beyond the allowable increase when a company's shares are in danger of being delisted or if a company's ability to continue to operate as a going concern is uncertain.
DUAL-CLASS STOCK
Vote AGAINST proposals to create a new class of common stock with superior voting rights.
Vote FOR proposals to create a new class of nonvoting or subvoting common stock if:
- It is intended for financing purposes with minimal or no dilution to current shareholders
- It is not designed to preserve the voting power of an insider or significant shareholder
ISSUE STOCK FOR USE WITH RIGHTS PLAN
Vote AGAINST proposals that increase authorized common stock for the explicit purpose of implementing a shareholder rights plan (poison pill).
PREEMPTIVE RIGHTS
Review on a CASE-BY-CASE basis shareholder proposals that seek preemptive rights. In evaluating proposals on preemptive rights, consider the size of a company, the characteristics of its shareholder base, and the liquidity of the stock.
PREFERRED STOCK
Vote AGAINST proposals authorizing the creation of new classes of preferred stock with unspecified voting, conversion, dividend distribution, and other rights ("blank check" preferred stock).
Vote FOR proposals to create "declawed" blank check preferred stock (stock that cannot be used as a takeover defense).
Vote FOR proposals to authorize preferred stock in cases where the company specifies the voting, dividend, conversion, and other rights of such stock and the terms of the preferred stock appear reasonable.
Vote AGAINST proposals to increase the number of blank check preferred stock authorized for issuance when no shares have been issued or reserved for a specific purpose.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to increase the number of blank check preferred shares after analyzing the number of preferred shares available for issue given a company's industry and performance in terms of shareholder returns.
RECAPITALIZATION
Votes CASE-BY-CASE on recapitalizations (reclassifications of securities), taking into account the following: more simplified capital structure, enhanced liquidity, fairness of conversion terms, impact on voting power and dividends, reasons for the reclassification, conflicts of interest, and other alternatives considered.
REVERSE STOCK SPLITS
Vote FOR management proposals to implement a reverse stock split when the number of authorized shares will be proportionately reduced.
Vote FOR management proposals to implement a reverse stock split to avoid delisting.
Votes on proposals to implement a reverse stock split that do not proportionately reduce the number of shares authorized for issue should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis using a model developed by ISS.
SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAMS
Vote FOR management proposals to institute open-market share repurchase plans in which all shareholders may participate on equal terms.
STOCK DISTRIBUTIONS: SPLITS AND DIVIDENDS
Vote FOR management proposals to increase the common share authorization for a stock split or share dividend, provided that the increase in authorized shares would not result in an excessive number of shares available for issuance as determined using a model developed by ISS.
TRACKING STOCK
Votes on the creation of tracking stock are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, weighing the strategic value of the transaction against such factors as: adverse governance changes, excessive increases in authorized capital stock, unfair method of distribution, diminution of voting rights, adverse conversion features, negative impact on stock option plans, and other alternatives such as spinoff.
8. EXECUTIVE AND DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
Votes with respect to equity-based compensation plans should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis. Our methodology for reviewing compensation plans primarily focuses on the transfer of shareholder wealth (the dollar cost of pay plans to shareholders instead of simply focusing on voting power dilution). Using the expanded compensation data disclosed under the SEC's rules, ISS will value every award type. ISS will include in its analyses an estimated dollar cost for the proposed plan and all continuing plans. This cost, dilution to shareholders' equity, will also be expressed as a percentage figure for the transfer of shareholder wealth, and will be considered along with dilution to voting power. Once ISS determines the estimated cost of the plan, we compare it to a company-specific dilution cap.
Our model determines a company-specific allowable pool of shareholder wealth that may be transferred from the company to plan participants, adjusted for:
- Long-term corporate performance (on an absolute basis and relative to a standard industry peer group and an appropriate market index),
- Cash compensation, and
- Categorization of the company as emerging, growth, or mature.
These adjustments are pegged to market capitalization.
Vote AGAINST plans that expressly permit the repricing of underwater stock options without shareholder approval.
Generally vote AGAINST plans in which the CEO participates if there is a disconnect between the CEO's pay and company performance (an increase in pay and a decrease in performance) and the main source of the pay increase (over half) is equity-based. A decrease in performance is based on negative one- and three-year total shareholder returns. An increase in pay is based on the CEO's total direct compensation (salary, cash bonus, present value of stock options, face value of restricted stock, face value of long-term incentive plan payouts, and all other compensation) increasing over the previous year. Also WITHHOLD votes from the Compensation Committee members.
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
Votes on compensation plans for directors are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, using a proprietary, quantitative model developed by ISS.
STOCK PLANS IN LIEU OF CASH
Votes for plans which provide participants with the option of taking all or a portion of their cash compensation in the form of stock are determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.
Vote FOR plans which provide a dollar-for-dollar cash for stock exchange.
Votes for plans which do not provide a dollar-for-dollar cash for stock exchange should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis using a proprietary, quantitative model developed by ISS.
DIRECTOR RETIREMENT PLANS
Vote AGAINST retirement plans for nonemployee directors.
Vote FOR shareholder proposals to eliminate retirement plans for nonemployee directors.
MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS SEEKING APPROVAL TO REPRICE OPTIONS
Votes on management proposals seeking approval to reprice options are evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis giving consideration to the following:
- Historic trading patterns
- Rationale for the repricing
- Value-for-value exchange
- Option vesting
- Term of the option
- Exercise price
- Participation.
EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLANS
Votes on employee stock purchase plans should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.
Vote FOR employee stock purchase plans where all of the following apply:
- Purchase price is at least 85 percent of fair market value
- Offering period is 27 months or less, and
- The number of shares allocated to the plan is ten percent or less of the outstanding shares
Vote AGAINST employee stock purchase plans where any of the following apply:
- Purchase price is less than 85 percent of fair market value, or
- Offering period is greater than 27 months, or
- The number of shares allocated to the plan is more than ten percent of the outstanding shares
INCENTIVE BONUS PLANS AND TAX DEDUCTIBILITY PROPOSALS (OBRA-RELATED COMPENSATION PROPOSALS)
Vote FOR proposals that simply amend shareholder-approved compensation plans to include administrative features or place a cap on the annual grants any one participant may receive to comply with the provisions of Section 162(m).
Vote FOR proposals to add performance goals to existing compensation plans to comply with the provisions of Section 162(m) unless they are clearly inappropriate.
Votes to amend existing plans to increase shares reserved and to qualify for favorable tax treatment under the provisions of Section 162(m) should be considered on a CASE-BY-CASE basis using a proprietary, quantitative model developed by ISS.
Generally vote FOR cash or cash and stock bonus plans that are submitted to shareholders for the purpose of exempting compensation from taxes under the provisions of Section 162(m) if no increase in shares is requested.
EMPLOYEE STOCK OWNERSHIP PLANS (ESOPS)
Vote FOR proposals to implement an ESOP or increase authorized shares for
existing ESOPs, unless the number of shares allocated to the ESOP is excessive
(more than five percent of outstanding shares.)
401(K) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
Vote FOR proposals to implement a 401(k) savings plan for employees.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS REGARDING EXECUTIVE AND DIRECTOR PAY
Generally, vote FOR shareholder proposals seeking additional disclosure of executive and director pay information, provided the information requested is relevant to shareholders' needs, would not put the company at a competitive disadvantage relative to its industry, and is not unduly burdensome to the company.
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals seeking to set absolute levels on compensation or otherwise dictate the amount or form of compensation.
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals requiring director fees be paid in stock only.
Vote FOR shareholder proposals to put option repricings to a shareholder vote.
Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis for all other shareholder proposals regarding executive and director pay, taking into account company performance, pay level versus peers, pay level versus industry, and long term corporate outlook.
OPTION EXPENSING
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals asking the company to expense stock options, unless the company has already publicly committed to expensing options by a specific date.
PERFORMANCE-BASED STOCK OPTIONS
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals advocating the use of performance-based stock options (indexed, premium-priced, and performance-vested options), unless:
- The proposal is overly restrictive (e.g., it mandates that awards to all employees must be performance based or all awards to top executives must be a particular type, such as indexed options)
- The company demonstrates that it is using a substantial portion of performance-based awards for its top executives GOLDEN PARACHUTES AND EXECUTIVE SEVERANCE AGREEMENTS
Vote FOR shareholder proposals to require golden parachutes or executive severance agreements to be submitted for shareholder ratification, unless the proposal requires shareholder approval prior to entering into employment contracts.
Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis on proposals to ratify or cancel golden parachutes. An acceptable parachute should include the following:
- The parachute should be less attractive than an ongoing employment opportunity with the firm
- The triggering mechanism should be beyond the control of management
- The amount should not exceed three times base salary plus guaranteed benefits
PENSION PLAN INCOME ACCOUNTING
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals to exclude pension plan income in the calculation of earnings used in determining executive bonuses/compensation.
SUPPLEMENTAL EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT PLANS (SERPS)
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals requesting to put extraordinary benefits contained in SERP agreements to a shareholder vote unless the company's executive pension plans do not contain excessive benefits beyond what is offered under employee-wide plans.
9. SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
CONSUMER ISSUES AND PUBLIC SAFETY
ANIMAL RIGHTS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to phase out the use of animals in product testing, taking into account:
- The nature of the product and the degree that animal testing is necessary or federally mandated (such as medical products),
- The availability and feasibility of alternatives to animal testing to ensure product safety, and
- The degree that competitors are using animal-free testing.
- Generally vote FOR proposals seeking a report on the company's animal welfare standards unless:
- The company has already published a set of animal welfare standards and monitors compliance
- The company's standards are comparable to or better than those of peer firms, and
- There are no serious controversies surrounding the company's treatment of animals
DRUG PRICING
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking the company to implement price restraints on pharmaceutical products, taking into account:
- Whether the proposal focuses on a specific drug and region
- Whether the economic benefits of providing subsidized drugs (e.g., public goodwill) outweigh the costs in terms of reduced profits, lower R&D spending, and harm to competitiveness
- The extent that reduced prices can be offset through the company's marketing budget without affecting R&D spending
- Whether the company already limits price increases of its products
- Whether the company already contributes life -saving pharmaceuticals to the needy and Third World countries
- The extent that peer companies implement price restraints
GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOODS
Vote AGAINST proposals asking companies to voluntarily label genetically engineered (GE) ingredients in their products or alternatively to provide interim labeling and eventually eliminate GE ingredients due to the costs and feasibility of labeling and/or phasing out the use of GE ingredients.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking for a report on the feasibility of labeling products containing GE ingredients taking into account:
- The relevance of the proposal in terms of the company's business and the proportion of it affected by the resolution
- The quality of the company's disclosure on GE product labeling and related voluntary initiatives and how this disclosure compares with peer company disclosure
- Company's current disclosure on the feasibility of GE product labeling, including information on the related costs
- Any voluntary labeling initiatives undertaken or considered by the company. Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking for the preparation of a report on the financial, legal, and environmental impact of continued use of GE ingredients/seeds.
- The relevance of the proposal in terms of the company's business and the proportion of it affected by the resolution
- The quality of the company's disclosure on risks related to GE product use and how this disclosure compares with peer company disclosure
- The percentage of revenue derived from international operations, particularly in Europe, where GE products are more regulated and consumer backlash is more pronounced.
Vote AGAINST proposals seeking a report on the health and environmental effects of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Health studies of this sort are better undertaken by regulators and the scientific community.
Vote AGAINST proposals to completely phase out GE ingredients from the company's products or proposals asking for reports outlining the steps necessary to eliminate GE ingredients from the company's products. Such resolutions presuppose that there are proven health risks to GE ingredients (an issue better left to federal regulators) that outweigh the economic benefits derived from biotechnology.
HANDGUNS
Generally vote AGAINST requests for reports on a company's policies aimed at curtailing gun violence in the United States unless the report is confined to product safety information. Criminal misuse of firearms is beyond company control and instead falls within the purview of law enforcement agencies.
HIV/AIDS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on requests for reports outlining the impact of the health pandemic (HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis) on the company's Sub-Saharan operations and how the company is responding to it, taking into account:
- The nature and size of the company's operations in Sub-Saharan Africa and the number of local employees
- The company's existing healthcare policies, including benefits and healthcare access for local workers
- Company donations to healthcare providers operating in the region
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking companies to establish, implement, and report on a standard of response to the HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria health pandemic in Africa and other developing countries, taking into account:
- The company's actions in developing countries to address HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, including donations of pharmaceuticals and work with public health organizations
- The company's initiatives in this regard compared to those of peer companies
PREDATORY LENDING
Vote CASE-BY CASE on requests for reports on the company's procedures for preventing predatory lending, including the establishment of a board committee for oversight, taking into account:
- Whether the company has adequately disclosed mechanisms in place to prevent abusive lending practices
- Whether the company has adequately disclosed the financial risks of its subprime business
- Whether the company has been subject to violations of lending laws or serious lending controversies
- Peer companies' policies to prevent abusive lending practices.
TOBACCO
Most tobacco-related proposals should be evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, taking into account the following factors:
Second-hand smoke:
- Whether the company complies with all local ordinances and regulations
- The degree that voluntary restrictions beyond those mandated by law might hurt the company's competitiveness
- The risk of any health-related liabilities.
Advertising to youth:
- Whether the company complies with federal, state, and local laws on the marketing of tobacco or if it has been fined for violations
- Whether the company has gone as far as peers in restricting advertising
- Whether the company entered into the Master Settlement Agreement, which restricts marketing of tobacco to youth
- Whether restrictions on marketing to youth extend to foreign countries
Cease production of tobacco-related products or avoid selling products to tobacco companies:
- The percentage of the company's business affected
- The economic loss of eliminating the business versus any potential tobacco-related liabilities.
- Spinoff tobacco-related businesses:
- The percentage of the company's business affected
- The feasibility of a spinoff
- Potential future liabilities related to the company's tobacco business.
Stronger product warnings:
Vote AGAINST proposals seeking stronger product warnings. Such decisions are better left to public health authorities.
Investment in tobacco stocks:
Vote AGAINST proposals prohibiting investment in tobacco equities. Such decisions are better left to portfolio managers.
ENVIRONMENT AND ENERGY
ARCTIC NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on reports outlining potential environmental damage from drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR), taking into account:
- Whether there are publicly available environmental impact reports;
- Whether the company has a poor environmental track record, such as violations of federal and state regulations or accidental spills; and
- The current status of legislation regarding drilling in ANWR.
CERES PRINCIPLES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to adopt the CERES Principles, taking into account:
- The company's current environmental disclosure beyond legal requirements, including environmental health and safety (EHS) audits and reports that may duplicate CERES
- The company's environmental performance record, including violations of federal and state regulations, level of toxic emissions, and accidental spills
- Environmentally conscious practices of peer companies, including endorsement of CERES
- Costs of membership and implementation.
ENVIRONMENTAL-ECONOMIC RISK REPORT
Vote CASE-by-CASE on proposals requesting reports assessing economic risks of environmental pollution or climate change, taking into account whether the company has clearly disclosed the following in its public documents:
- Approximate costs of complying with current or proposed environmental laws
- Steps company is taking to reduce greenhouse gasses or other environmental pollutants
- Measurements of the company's emissions levels
- Reduction targets or goals for environmental pollutants including greenhouse gasses
ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTS
Generally vote FOR requests for reports disclosing the company's environmental policies unless it already has well documented environmental management systems that are available to the public.
GLOBAL WARMING
Generally vote FOR reports on the level of greenhouse gas emissions from the company's operations and products, unless the report is duplicative of the company's current environmental disclosure and reporting or is not integral to the company's line of business. However, additional reporting may be warranted if:
- The company's level of disclosure lags that of its competitors, or
- The company has a poor environmental track record, such as violations of federal and state regulations.
RECYCLING
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to adopt a comprehensive recycling strategy, taking into account:
- The nature of the company's business and the percentage affected
- The extent that peer companies are recycling
- The timetable prescribed by the proposal
- The costs and methods of implementation
- Whether the company has a poor environmental track record, such as violations of federal and state regulations.
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to invest in renewable energy sources, taking into account:
- The nature of the company's business and the percentage affected
- The extent that peer companies are switching from fossil fuels to cleaner sources
- The timetable and specific action prescribed by the proposal
- The costs of implementation
- The company's initiatives to address climate change
Generally vote FOR requests for reports on the feasibility of developing renewable energy sources, unless the report is duplicative of the company's current environmental disclosure and reporting or is not integral to the company's line of business.
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Generally vote FOR proposals requesting the company to report on its policies and practices related to social, environmental, and economic sustainability, unless the company is already reporting on its sustainability initiatives through existing reports such as:
- A combination of an EHS or other environmental report, code of conduct, and/or supplier/vendor standards, and equal opportunity and diversity data and programs, all of which are publicly available, or
- A report based on Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or similar guidelines. Vote FOR shareholder proposals asking companies to provide a sustainability report applying the GRI guidelines unless:
- The company already has a comprehensive sustainability report or equivalent addressing the essential elements of the GRI guidelines or
- The company has publicly committed to using the GRI format by a specific date
GENERAL CORPORATE ISSUES
LINK EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION TO SOCIAL PERFORMANCE
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to review ways of linking executive compensation to social factors, such as corporate downsizings, customer or employee satisfaction, community involvement, human rights, environmental performance, predatory lending, and executive/employee pay disparities. Such resolutions should be evaluated in the context of:
- The relevance of the issue to be linked to pay
- The degree that social performance is already included in the company's pay structure and disclosed
- The degree that social performance is used by peer companies in setting pay
- Violations or complaints filed against the company relating to the particular social performance measure
- Artificial limits sought by the proposal, such as freezing or capping executive pay
- Independence of the compensation committee
- Current company pay levels.
CHARITABLE/POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS
Generally vote AGAINST proposals asking the company to affirm political nonpartisanship in the workplace so long as:
- The company is in compliance with laws governing corporate political activities, and
- The company has procedures in place to ensure that employee contributions to company-sponsored political action committees (PACs) are strictly voluntary and not coercive.
Vote AGAINST proposals to report or publish in newspapers the company's political contributions. Federal and state laws restrict the amount of corporate contributions and include reporting requirements.
Vote AGAINST proposals disallowing the company from making political contributions. Businesses are affected by legislation at the federal, state, and local level and barring contributions can put the company at a competitive disadvantage.
Vote AGAINST proposals restricting the company from making charitable contributions. Charitable contributions are generally useful for assisting worthwhile causes and for creating goodwill in the community. In the absence of bad faith, self-dealing, or gross negligence, management should determine which contributions are in the best interests of the company.
Vote AGAINST proposals asking for a list of company executives, directors, consultants, legal counsels, lobbyists, or investment bankers that have prior government service and whether such service had a bearing on the business of the company. Such a list would be burdensome to prepare without providing any meaningful information to shareholders.
LABOR STANDARDS AND HUMAN RIGHTS
CHINA PRINCIPLES
Vote AGAINST proposals to implement the China Principles unless:
- There are serious controversies surrounding the company's China operations, and
- The company does not have a code of conduct with standards similar to those promulgated by the International Labor Organization (ILO).
COUNTRY-SPECIFIC HUMAN RIGHTS REPORTS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on requests for reports detailing the company's operations in a particular country and steps to protect human rights, based on:
- The nature and amount of company business in that country
- The company's workplace code of conduct
- Proprietary and confidential information involved
- Company compliance with U.S. regulations on investing in the country
- Level of peer company involvement in the country.
INTERNATIONAL CODES OF CONDUCT/VENDOR STANDARDS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to implement certain human rights standards at company facilities or those of its suppliers and to commit to outside, independent monitoring. In evaluating these proposals, the following should be considered:
- The company's current workplace code of conduct or adherence to other global standards and the degree they meet the standards promulgated by the proponent
- Agreements with foreign suppliers to meet certain workplace standards
- Whether company and vendor facilities are monitored and how
- Company participation in fair labor organizations
- Type of business
- Proportion of business conducted overseas
- Countries of operation with known human rights abuses
- Whether the company has been recently involved in significant labor and human rights controversies or violations
- Peer company standards and practices
- Union presence in company's international factories
- Generally vote FOR reports outlining vendor standards compliance unless any of the following apply:
- The company does not operate in countries with significant human rights violations
- The company has no recent human rights controversies or violations, or
- The company already publicly discloses information on its vendor standards compliance.
MACBRIDE PRINCIPLES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to endorse or increase activity on the MacBride Principles, taking into account:
- Company compliance with or violations of the Fair Employment Act of 1989
- Company antidiscrimination policies that already exceed the legal requirements
- The cost and feasibility of adopting all nine principles
- The cost of duplicating efforts to follow two sets of standards (Fair Employment and the MacBride Principles)
- The potential for charges of reverse discrimination
- The potential that any company sales or contracts in the rest of the United Kingdom could be negatively impacted
- The level of the company's investment in Northern Ireland
- The number of company employees in Northern Ireland
- The degree that industry peers have adopted the MacBride Principles
- Applicable state and municipal laws that limit contracts with companies that have not adopted the MacBride Principles.
MILITARY BUSINESS
FOREIGN MILITARY SALES/OFFSETS
Vote AGAINST reports on foreign military sales or offsets. Such disclosures may involve sensitive and confidential information. Moreover, companies must comply with government controls and reporting on foreign military sales.
LANDMINES AND CLUSTER BOMBS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking a company to renounce future involvement in antipersonnel landmine production, taking into account:
- Whether the company has in the past manufactured landmine components
- Whether the company's peers have renounced future production
- Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking a company to renounce future involvement in cluster bomb production, taking into account:
- What weapons classifications the proponent views as cluster bombs
- Whether the company currently or in the past has manufactured cluster bombs or their components
- The percentage of revenue derived from cluster bomb manufacture
- Whether the company's peers have renounced future production
NUCLEAR WEAPONS
Vote AGAINST proposals asking a company to cease production of nuclear weapons components and delivery systems, including disengaging from current and proposed contracts. Components and delivery systems serve multiple military and non-military uses, and withdrawal from these contracts could have a negative impact on the company's business.
OPERATIONS IN NATIONS SPONSORING TERRORISM (IRAN)
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on requests for a board committee review and report outlining the company's financial and reputational risks from its operations in Iran, taking into account current disclosure on:
- The nature and purpose of the Iranian operations and the amount of business involved (direct and indirect revenues and expenses) that could be affected by political disruption
- Compliance with U.S. sanctions and laws
SPACED-BASED WEAPONIZATION
Generally vote FOR reports on a company's involvement in spaced-based weaponization unless:
- The information is already publicly available or
- The disclosures sought could compromise proprietary information.
WORKPLACE DIVERSITY
BOARD DIVERSITY
Generally vote FOR reports on the company's efforts to diversify the board, unless:
- The board composition is reasonably inclusive in relation to companies of similar size and business or
- The board already reports on its nominating procedures and diversity initiatives.
- Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking the company to increase the representation of women and minorities on the board, taking into account:
- The degree of board diversity
- Comparison with peer companies
- Established process for improving board diversity
- Existence of independent nominating committee
- Use of outside search firm History of EEO violations.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO)
Generally vote FOR reports outlining the company's affirmative action initiatives unless all of the following apply:
- The company has well-documented equal opportunity programs
- The company already publicly reports on its company-wide affirmative initiatives and provides data on its workforce diversity, and
- The company has no recent EEO-related violations or litigation.
Vote AGAINST proposals seeking information on the diversity efforts of suppliers and service providers, which can pose a significant cost and administration burden on the company.
GLASS CEILING
Generally vote FOR reports outlining the company's progress towards the Glass Ceiling Commission's business recommendations, unless:
- The composition of senior management and the board is fairly inclusive
- The company has well-documented programs addressing diversity initiatives and leadership development
- The company already issues public reports on its company-wide affirmative initiatives and provides data on its workforce diversity, and
- The company has had no recent, significant EEO-related violations or litigation
SEXUAL ORIENTATION
Vote FOR proposals seeking to amend a company's EEO statement in order to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation, unless the change would result in excessive costs for the company.
Vote AGAINST proposals to ext end company benefits to or eliminate benefits from domestic partners. Benefits decisions should be left to the discretion of the company.
10. MUTUAL FUND PROXIES
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Vote the election of directors on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: board structure; director independence and qualifications; and compensation of directors within the fund and the family of funds attendance at board and committee meetings.
Votes should be withheld from directors who:
- attend less than 75 percent of the board and committee meetings without a valid excuse for the absences. Valid reasons include illness or absence due to company business. Participation via telephone is acceptable.
- In addition, if the director missed only one meeting or one day's
- meetings, votes should not be withheld even if such absence dropped the director's attendance below 75 percent.
- ignore a shareholder proposal that is approved by a majority of shares
- outstanding;
- ignore a shareholder proposal that is approved by a majority of the
- votes cast for two consecutive years;
- are interested directors and sit on the audit or nominating committee; or
- are interested directors and the full board serves as the audit or
- nominating committee or the company does not have one of these committees.
CONVERTING CLOSED-END FUND TO OPEN-END FUND
Vote conversion proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: past performance as a closed-end fund; market in which the fund invests; measures taken by the board to address the discount; and past shareholder activism, board activity, and votes on related proposals.
Proxy Contests
Votes on proxy contests should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
- Past performance relative to its peers
- Market in which fund invests
- Measures taken by the board to address the issues
- Past shareholder activism, board activity, and votes on related proposals
- Strategy of the incumbents versus the dissidents
- Independence of directors
- Experience and skills of director candidates
- Governance profile of the company
- Evidence of management entrenchment
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS
Votes on investment advisory agreements should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
- Proposed and current fee schedules
- Fund category/investment objective
- Performance benchmarks
- Share price performance as compared with peers
- Resulting fees relative to peers
- Assignments (where the advisor undergoes a change of control)
APPROVING NEW CLASSES OR SERIES OF SHARES
Vote FOR the establishment of new classes or series of shares.
PREFERRED STOCK PROPOSALS
Votes on the authorization for or increase in preferred shares should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: stated specific financing purpose, possible dilution for common shares, and whether the shares can be used for antitakeover purposes
1940 ACT POLICIES
Votes on 1940 Act policies should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: potential competitiveness; regulatory developments; current and potential returns; and current and potential risk. Generally vote FOR these amendments as long as the proposed changes do not fundamentally alter the investment focus of the fund and do comply with t he current SEC interpretation.
CHANGING A FUNDAMENTAL RESTRICTION TO A NONFUNDAMENTAL RESTRICTION
Proposals to change a fundamental restriction to a nonfundamental restriction
should be evaluated on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
the fund's target investments, the reasons given by the fund for the change, and
the projected impact of the change on the portfolio.
CHANGE FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE TO NONFUNDAMENTAL
Vote AGAINST proposals to change a fund's fundamental investment objective to nonfundamental.
NAME CHANGE PROPOSALS
Votes on name change proposals should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: political/economic changes in the target market, consolidation in the target market, and current asset composition
CHANGE IN FUND'S SUBCLASSIFICATION
Votes on changes in a fund's subclassification should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: potential competitiveness, current and potential returns, risk of concentration, and consolidation in target industry
DISPOSITION OF ASSETS/TERMINATION/LIQUIDATION
Vote these proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
strategies employed to salvage the company; the fund's past performance; and
terms of the liquidation.
CHANGES TO THE CHARTER DOCUMENT
Votes on changes to the charter document should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
- The degree of change implied by the proposal
- The efficiencies that could result
- The state of incorporation
- Regulatory standards and implications
Vote AGAINST any of the following changes:
- Removal of shareholder approval requirement to reorganize or terminate the trust or any of its series
- Removal of shareholder approval requirement for amendments to the new declaration of trust
- Removal of shareholder approval requirement to amend the fund's management contract, allowing the contract to be modified by the investment manager and the trust management, as permitted by the 1940 Act
- Allow the trustees to impose other fees in addition to sales charges on investment in a fund, such as deferred sales charges and redemption fees that may be imposed upon redemption of a fund's shares
- Removal of shareholder approval requirement to engage in and terminate subadvisory arrangements
- Removal of shareholder approval requirement to change the domicile of the fund
CHANGING THE DOMICILE OF A FUND
Vote reincorporations on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: regulations of both states; required fundamental policies of both states; and the increased flexibility available.
AUTHORIZING THE BOARD TO HIRE AND TERMINATE SUBADVISORS WITHOUT SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL
Vote AGAINST proposals authorizing the board to hire/terminate subadvisors without shareholder approval.
DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENTS
Vote these proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors:
fees charged to comparably sized funds with similar objectives, the proposed
distributor's reputation and past performance, the competitiveness of the fund
in the industry, and terms of the agreement.
MASTER-FEEDER STRUCTURE
Vote FOR the establishment of a master-feeder structure.
MERGERS
Vote merger proposals on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: resulting fee structure, performance of both funds, continuity of management personnel, and changes in corporate governance and their impact on shareholder rights.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS TO ESTABLISH DIRECTOR OWNERSHIP REQUIREMENT
Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals that mandate a specific minimum amount of stock that directors must own in order to qualify as a director or to remain on the board. While ISS favors stock ownership on the part of directors, the company should determine the appropriate ownership requirement.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS TO REIMBURSE SHAREHOLDER FOR EXPENSES INCURRED
Voting to reimburse proxy solicitation expenses should be analyzed on a CASE-BY-CASE basis. In cases where ISS recommends in favor of the dissidents, we also recommend voting for reimbursing proxy solicitation expenses.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS TO TERMINATE THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Vote to terminate the investment advisor on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, considering the following factors: performance of the fund's NAV, the fund's history of shareholder relations, and the performance of other funds under the advisor's management.
PART C
OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 23. EXHIBITS
(a)(1) Declaration of Trust incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on June 19, 1997 as exhibit 1.
(a)(2) Resolution amending Declaration of Trust dated February 17, 2000 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(a)(3) Amendment to Declaration of Trust dated August 31, 2005 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 21, 2005.
(A)(4) AMENDMENT TO DECLARATION OF TRUST DATED NOVEMBER 30, 2006 INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(b) N/A
(c) N/A
(d)(1) Investment Management Agreement with CIMCO Inc. incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on September 17, 1997 as exhibit 5(a).
(d)(2) Amendment No. 1 to Management Agreement with CIMCO Inc. effective February 1, 2000 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(d)(3) Amendment No. 2 to Management Agreement with CIMCO Inc. (n/k/a MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc.) effective February 15, 2001, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 15, 2000.
(D)(3) AMENDMENT NO. 5 TO MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT WITH MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC. EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 30, 2006, INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(d)(4) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement with Massachusetts Financial Services Company incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on September 17, 1997 as exhibit 5(b).
(i) Termination Letter effective February 28, 2005 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 25, 2005.
(d)(5) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement with Massachusetts Financial Services Company for the Emerging Growth Fund effective February 1, 2000 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(i) Termination Letter effective December 9, 2002 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 24, 2003.
(d)(6) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement with IAI International Limited incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on September 17, 1997 as exhibit 5(c).
(d)(7) Letter agreement between MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. and IAI International Limited dated October 30, 2000 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2001.
(d)(8) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement with Lazard Asset Management incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on September 17, 1997 as exhibit 5(d).
(d)(9) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement with Lazard Asset Management effective October 31, 2000, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 15, 2000.
(d)(10) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement between MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. and Wellington Management Company, LLP effective May 1, 2002, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 24, 2003.
(d)(11) Letter dated January 26, 2001 amending Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement between MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. and Wellington Management Company, LLP incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2001.
(d)(12) Letter Agreement between MEMBERS Mutual Funds and MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. effective March 14, 2001, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 28, 2002.
(d)(13) Letter Agreement between MEMBERS Mutual Funds and MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. effective January 29, 2002, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 28, 2002.
(d)(14) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement with Shenkman Capital Management effective February 28, 2005, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 25, 2005.
(D)(15) LETTER AGREEMENT WITH WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP EFFECTIVE FEBRUARY 28, 2006, INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(D)(16) INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT WITH WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(D)(17) INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT WITH PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT CO, LLC INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(D)(18) LETTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS AND MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC. EFFECTIVE JUNE 28, 2006, INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(e) Distribution Agreement with CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on September 17, 1997 as exhibit 6.
(E)(1) DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT AMEND. #3 WITH CUNA BROKERAGE SERVICES, INC. INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(f) N/A
(g)(1) Custody Agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on November 12, 1997 as exhibit 8.
(g)(2) Agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company to add the Emerging Growth Fund incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(g)(3) Amendment No. 2 to Custodian Agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company effective February 15, 2001 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2001.
(g)(4) Amendment to Custody Agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company effective March 14, 2001, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 28, 2002.
(h)(1) Administration Agreement with First Data Investors Services Group, Inc. incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on November 12, 1997 as exhibit 9(a).
(h)(2) Transfer Agency and Services Agreement with First Data Investors Services Group, Inc. incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on November 12, 1997 as exhibit 9(b).
(h)(3) Administration Agreement between MEMBERS Mutual Funds and State Street Bank and Trust Company effective October 30, 2000 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2001.
(i) Amendment to Transfer Agency and Services Agreement effective January 1, 2003, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 24, 2003.
(ii) Amendment to Transfer Agency and Services Agreement effective October 1, 2003.
(h)(4) Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between MEMBERS Mutual Funds and State Street Bank and Trust Company effective November 20, 2000, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 28, 2002.
(h)(5) Investment Accounting Agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company effective October 28, 2000, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 15, 2000.
(i) Amendment to Investment Accounting Agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company effective November 5, 2004.
(i)(1) (i)(2) Opinion and Consent of Sutherland, Asbill & Brennan LLP, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(i)(2) Opinion and Consent of Sutherland, Asbill & Brennan LLP, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2001.
(j) Consent of Deloitte and Touche
(k) N/A
(l)(1) Subscription Agreement with CUNA Mutual Insurance Society incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on November 12, 1997 as exhibit 13(a).
(l)(2) Subscription Agreement with CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on November 12, 1997 as exhibit 13(b).
(l)(3) Subscription Agreement with CUMIS incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 10, 1999.
(l)(4) Subscription Agreement with CUMIS Insurance Society, Inc. dated February 17, 2000 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(l)(5) Subscription Agreement with CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company dated February 19, 2001, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2001.
(L)(6) SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT WITH CUNA MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY DATED JUNE 16, 2006, INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(L)(7) SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT WITH CUNA MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY DATED NOVEMBER 30, 2006, INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(m)(1) Service Plan for Class A Shares incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on September 17, 1997 as exhibit 15(a).
(m)(2) Supplement No. 1 to Service Plan for Class A Shares dated February 1, 2000 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(m)(3) Supplement No. 2 to Service Plan for Class A Shares dated February 15, 2001, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 15, 2000.
(m)(4) Distribution Plan for Class B Shares incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on September 17, 1997 as exhibit 15(b).
(m)(5) Supplement No. 1 to Distribution Plan for Class B Shares dated February 1, 2000 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(m)(6) Supplement No. 2 to Distribution Plan for Class B Shares dated February 15, 2001, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 15, 2000.
(m)(7) Service Plan for Class D Shares incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 11, 1998.
(m)(8) Supplement No. 1 to Service Plan for Class D Shares dated February 1, 2000 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(m)(9) Supplement No. 2 to Service Plan for Class D Shares dated February 15, 2001, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 15, 2000.
(M)(10)SUPPLEMENT NO. 3 TO SERVICE PLAN FOR CLASS A SHARES DATED NOVEMBER 30, 2006, INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(M)(11)SUPPLEMENT NO. 3 TO DISTRIBUTION PLAN FOR CLASS B SHARES DATED NOVEMBER 30, 2006, INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(n)(1) Plan of Multiple Classes of Shares incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 11, 1998.
(n)(2) Amended Plan of Multiple Classes of Shares incorporated by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 21, 2005.
(N)(3) AMENDED PLAN OF MULTIPLE CLASSES OF SHARES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE TO
REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(p)(1)a Amended and Restated MEMBERS Mutual Funds Code of Ethics dated June 1, 2000, 1997, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 15, 2000.
(p)(1)b Amended and Restated MEMBERS Mutual Funds Code of Ethics dated January, 2005 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 25, 2005.
(p)(1)c Amended and Restated MEMBERS Mutual Funds Code of Ethics dated August 31, 2005 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 21, 2005.
(p)(1)d Amended and Restated MEMBERS Mutual Funds Code of Ethics dated August 31, 2005 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 21, 2005.
(P)(1)E AMENDED AND RESTATED MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS CODE OF ETHICS DATED AUGUST 30, 2006 INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(p)(3) Massachusetts Financial Services Company Code of Ethics dated September 1, 2000, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 15, 2000.
(p)(4)a Lazard Asset Management Code of Ethics incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(p)(4)b Amended and Restated Lazard Asset Management Code of Ethics incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 23, 2005.
(P)(4)C AMENDED AND RESTATED LAZARD ASSET MANAGEMENT CODE OF ETHICS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(p)(5) CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. Code of Ethics dated September 1, 1997 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on February 23, 2000.
(p)(6)a Wellington Management Company, LLP Code of Ethics incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 21, 2005.
(P)(6)B WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP CODE OF ETHICS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(p)(7)a Shenkman Capital Management, Inc. Code of Ethics incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 21, 2005.
(P)(7)B SHENKMAN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, INC. CODE OF ETHICS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(P)(8)2 PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT CO, LLC, CODE OF ETHICS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
(P)(9)A OPPENHEIMER FUNDS CODE OF ETHICS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE TO
REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM N-1A (333-29511) FILED ON DECEMBER 8, 2006.
Other Exhibits
POWERS OF ATTORNEY - FILED HEREWITH
ITEM 24. PERSONS CONTROLLED BY OR UNDER COMMON CONTROL WITH REGISTRANT
See the caption in Part A entitled "Portfolio Management" and Part B "Management of the Trust" for a description of related parties.
CUNA Mutual Insurance Society is a mutual life insurance company and therefore is controlled by its contract owners. Various companies and other entities are controlled by CUNA Mutual Insurance Society and various companies may be considered to be under common control with CUNA Mutual Insurance Society. Such other companies and entities, together with the identity of their controlling persons (where applicable), are set forth in the following organization charts. In addition, by virtue of an Agreement of Permanent Affiliation with CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company, CUNA Mutual Insurance Society could be considered to be an affiliated person or an affiliated person of an affiliated person of CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company. Likewise, CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company and its affiliates, together with the identity of their controlling persons (where applicable), are set forth on the following organization charts. Because CUNA Mutual Insurance Society and CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company own MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., the investment adviser to the MEMBERS Mutual Funds, each of the entities set forth below could be considered affiliated persons of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds or affiliated persons of such affiliated persons.
APPENDIX D
Persons Controlling, Controlled by or Under Common Control with The Investment Adviser, Principal Underwriter, Sponsoring Insurance Company
CUNA Mutual Insurance Society is a mutual life insurance company and therefore is controlled by its contract owners. Various companies and other entities are controlled by CUNA Mutual Insurance Society and various companies may be considered to be under common control with CUNA Mutual Insurance Society. Such other companies and entities, together with the identity of their controlling persons (where applicable), are set forth in the following organization charts. In addition, by virtue of an Agreement of Permanent Affiliation with CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company, CUNA Mutual Insurance Society could be considered to be an affiliated person or an affiliated person of an affiliated person of CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company. Likewise, CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company and its affiliates, together with the identity of their controlling persons (where applicable), are set forth on the following organization charts. Because CUNA Mutual Insurance Society and CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company own MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., the investment adviser to the MEMBERS Mutual Funds, each of the entities set forth below could be considered affiliated persons of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds or affiliated persons of such affiliated persons.
CUNA Mutual Insurance Society Organizational Chart As Of November 21, 2006
Note: Dates shown are dates of acquisition, control or organization.
CUNA Mutual Insurance Society
Business: Life, Health & Disability Insurance
May 20, 1935
State of domicile: Wisconsin
CUNA Mutual Insurance Society, either directly or indirectly, is the controlling company of the following wholly-owned subsidiaries:
1. CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation Business: Holding Company October 15, 1972 State of domicile: Wisconsin
CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation is the owner of the following subsidiaries:
a. CUMIS Insurance Society, Inc.
Business: Corporate Property/Casualty Insurance
May 23, 1960
State of domicile: Wisconsin
(1) CUMIS Specialty Insurance Company, Inc.
Business: Specialty insurance and reinsurance September 1, 2006 State of domicile: Iowa
b. CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc.
Business: Brokerage
July 19, 1985
State of domicile: Wisconsin
c. CUNA Mutual General Agency of Texas, Inc.
Business: Managing General Agent
August 14, 1991
State of domicile: Texas
(1) MEMBERS Financial Services, Inc. Business: Local Recording Agent (LRA) for the selling of property and casualty coverage to Texas CU members Incorporated September 5, 1973 under the name of Members Insurance Agency, Inc., later changed its name to CUNA Mutual Insurance Agency of Texas, Inc., and effective August 7, 2003, changed its name again to MEMBERS Financial Services, Inc. Ownership: For Regulatory purposes, MEMBERS Financial Services, Inc. is currently owned by two individuals, each owning 50% of the stock. State of domicile: Texas
d. MEMBERS Life Insurance Company Business: Credit Disability/Life/Health February 27, 1976 State of domicile: Wisconsin Formerly CUMIS Life & CUDIS
e. International Commons, Inc.
Business: Special Events
January 13, 1981
State of domicile: Wisconsin
f. CUNA Mutual Mortgage Corporation Business: Mortgage Servicing November 20, 1978 Incorporated December 1, 1995 Wholly Owned State of domicile: Wisconsin
g. CUNA Mutual Insurance Agency, Inc.
Business: Leasing/Brokerage
March 1, 1974
State of domicile: Wisconsin
Formerly CMCI Corporation
CUNA Mutual Insurance Agency, Inc. is the 100% owner of the following subsidiary:
(1) CUNA Mutual Casualty Insurance Agency of Mississippi,
Inc.
Business: Property & Casualty Agency
June 24, 1993
State of domicile: Mississippi
h. Stewart Associates Incorporated Business: Insurance Agency for Credit Insurance, Collateral Protection, Mechanical Breakdown March 6, 1998 State of domicile: Wisconsin
i. CUNA Mutual Business Services, Inc. Business: Financial Services Incorporated April 22, 1974 Wholly owned March 6, 2000 State of domicile: Wisconsin
j. Lending Call Center Services, LLC Business: Provides Lending Call Center Services & Lending Solutions to Credit Unions Incorporated June 24, 2002 Ownership 92% by CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation Ownership 8% by various state credit union leagues
k. Lenders Protection, LLC Business: Limited Liability Company Owned 50% CUNA Mutual Insurance Society and 50% Open Lending, Inc. State of domicile: Delaware
l. Union Charter Holding, LLC Business: Holds 100% of Union Financial Services, LLC Acquired January 7, 2005 Formed November 9, 2004 Domiciled in Delaware
(1) Union Financial Services, LLC Industrial Loan Company Domiciled in Utah
2. C.U.I.B.S. Pty. Ltd.
Business: Brokerage
February 18, 1981
Country of domicile: Australia
3. CUNA Caribbean Insurance Society Limited Business: Life and Health July 4, 1985 Country of domicile: Trinidad and Tobago
CUNA Caribbean Insurance Society Limited is the owner of the following subsidiary:
a. CUNA Caribbean Insurance Services Limited Business: Consultants, Advisors and Managers for Insurance & Pension Plans Incorporated November 26, 1991 Country of domicile: Trinidad and Tobago
4. CUNA Mutual Australia Holding Co. Pty. Ltd.
Business: Holding Company
September 17, 1999
Country of domicile: Australia
CUNA Mutual Australia Holding Co. Pty. Ltd. Is the owner of the following subsidiary:
a. CUNA Mutual Life Australia, Ltd.
Business: Life Insurance
October 15, 1999
Country of domicile: Australia
5. CUNA Mutual Group, Limited Business: Brokerage May 27, 1998 Country of domicile: U.K.
6. CUNA Mutual Group Services (Ireland) Limited Business: Insurance Services (currently seeking authorization to provide Sales & Marketing Services) June 6, 2003 Country of domicile: Ireland
7. CUNA Mutual Life Assurance (Europe), Limited Business: All kinds of life assurance business Incorporated July 23, 2004 Authorized August 1, 2005 Country of domicile: Ireland
CUNA Mutual Insurance Society, either directly or through a wholly-owned subsidiary, has a partial ownership interest in the following:
1. C.U. Insurance Services, Inc./Oregon 50% ownership by CUNA Mutual Insurance Agency, Inc. 50% ownership by Oregon Credit Union League December 27, 1989
2. The CUMIS Group Limited 77.4% ownership by CUNA Mutual Insurance Society December 31, 1991
The CUMIS Group Limited is the 100% owner of the following companies:
a. CUMIS Life Insurance Company Business: Creditor Group, Individual Life and Disability Insurance January 1, 1977 Country of domicile: Canada
b. CUMIS General Insurance Company Business: Property & Casualty Insurance July 1, 1980 Country of domicile: Canada
c. MemberCARE Financial Services Limited Business: Serve as a partner with CUMIS Life for the deliver of the MemberCARE Financial Services Program August 1, 1993 Country of domicile: Canada
d. MemberCARE Financial Services Partnership Originally formed on January 1, 1994 as a partnership between Co-operators Life Insurance Company and CUMIS Life Insurance Company. January 1, 1997 - CUMIS Life purchased 49.5% of Co-operator's interest in the partnership (bringing their total to 99.5%) and MemberCARE Financial Services Limited purchased 0.5%. Country of domicile: Canada
e. Canadian Northern Shield Insurance Company Business: Property & Casualty Insurance February 1, 1985 Country of domicile: British Columbia, Canada
f. CUMIS Services Limited Business: Acquisitions and Insurance Agency Management Services June 1, 2000
Country of domicile: Canada
g. WESTCU Insurance Services Limited Business: Insurance Agency Management June 21, 2000 Country of domicile: Westminster, Canada
The CUMIS Group Limited is the 50% owner of the following companies:
a. CREDENTIAL FINANCIAL, INC. Business: Holding Company with ownership in a number of insurance and securities distribution companies Acquired January 2004 Country of domicile: Canada
3. MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. (formerly CIMCO Inc.) 50% ownership by CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation 50% ownership by CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company January 1, 1992
4. MEMBERS Trust Company (MTC)
Business: MTC will offer an array of estate financial planning services to
members through their credit unions.
Incorporated 2003
MTC will operate independently from Suncoast Federal Credit Union and CUNA
Mutual with shares of ownership to be sold to credit unions and credit
union entities.
5. CMG Mortgage Insurance Company (formerly Investors Mortgage Insurance Company) 50% ownership by CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation 50% ownership by PMI Mortgage Insurance Company April 14, 1994
6. CMG Mortgage Assurance Company Business: Private Mortgage Insurance Formerly Investors Equity Insurance Company, Inc. 50% ownership by CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation 50% ownership by PMI Mortgage Insurance Company Incorporated in California on March 3, 1969 Acquired by CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation April 14, 1994 State of domicile: Wisconsin
7. CMG Mortgage Reinsurance Company 50% ownership by CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation 50% ownership by PMI Insurance Company July 26, 1999
8. Credit Union Service Corporation
Atlanta, Georgia
Owned by Credit Union National Association, Inc. and 18 state league
organizations
March 26, 1996 - CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation purchased 1,300,000
shares of stock
9. CUNA Mutual Australia Limited (formerly finsure.australia limited) 100% ownership by CUNA Mutual Australia Holding Company Pty. Limited October 15, 1999
CUNA Mutual Australia Limited is the 100% owner of the following companies:
a. CUNA Mutual Insurance Brokers Pty Limited Business: Brokerage Incorporated as NCUIS Brokers February 6, 1986 Renamed on September 3, 2002 Country of Domicile: Australia
b. CUNA Mutual Technology Services Australia Pty Limited Business: Technology Services Incorporated as Direct Insurance Network International on August 31, 2000 Renamed on September 3, 2002 Country of Domicile: Australia
The following company is owned 100% by CUNA Mutual Technology Services Australia Pty Limited:
(1) CUNA Mutual Insurance Brokers Pty Limited Business: Brokerage Incorporated as NCUIS Brokers February 6, 1986 Renamed on September 3, 2002 Country of Domicile: Australia
10. CUNA Strategic Services, Inc. CUNA Mutual Insurance Society owns 200.71 shares December 31, 1999
11. China Credit Co-operative Services, Limited Business: Hong Kong Holding Company; provide technology and business consulting in support of the PRC operations of CUNA Mutual Group. Incorporated November 21, 2003
Effective March 2, 2004, owned 70% by CUNA Mutual Insurance Society and 30% by IFC Country of domicile: China
The following company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of China Credit Co-operative Services, Limited:
a. CCC Services, Limited Incorporated December 3, 2003 Country of domicile: China
b. CUNA Mutual Consulting Services (Guangdong) Company Limited
(CMCSC Ltd.)
Business: To give us a corporate presence in the PRC, and to
facilitate transactions and payments among our Hong Kong
companies, and our RCCU partners.
Incorporated July 1, 2004
Country of domicile: China
Partnerships
1. CM CUSO Limited Partnership, a Washington Partnership CUMIS Insurance Society, Inc. - General Partner Credit Unions in Washington - Limited Partners June 14, 1993
2. MEMBERS Development Company LLC 49% ownership by CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation 51% ownership by Credit Unions & CUSOs September 24, 1999
a. MEMBERS Business Solutions Company, LLC is 100% owned by MEMBERS Development Company, LLC; effective 5/27/04; created to provide business services to credit unions and other related entities, and to engage in any lawful business or activity permitted under the Act and to do any and all other actions and things that may be necessary, incidental or convenient to accomplish these purposes.
3. The Center for Credit Union Innovation LLC 33.3% ownership by CUNA Mutual Insurance Society 33.3% ownership by CUNA & Affiliates 33.3% ownership by American Association of Credit Union Leagues January 5, 2000
4. HRValue Group LLC 49% ownership by CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation 51% ownership by Leagues & League Service Organizations December 1, 2000
Affiliated (Nonstock)
1. CUNA Mutual Group Foundation, Inc. July 5, 1967
2. CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company July 1, 1990
3. CUNA Mutual Insurance Society Political Action Committee Business: Increase the effectiveness of CUNA Mutual Group's participation in lobbying and other legislative advocacy activities. Created: June 24, 2004
CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company Organizational Chart As Of November 21, 2006
CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company
An Iowa mutual life insurance company
Fiscal Year End: December 31
CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company is the controlling company for the following subsidiaries:
1. MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc.
An Iowa Business Act Corporation
50% ownership by CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company
50% ownership by CUNA Mutual Investment Corporation
July 16, 1982
MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. is the investment adviser of:
Ultra Series Fund
MEMBERS Mutual Funds
CU System Funds
2. CMIA Wisconsin, Inc. A Wisconsin Business Act Corporation 100% ownership by CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company May 29, 1998
3. League Insurance Agency, Inc.
(Wholly owned by CMIA Wisconsin, Inc.)
Business: Insurance Agency
Incorporated on August 16, 1973
Acquired on August 31, 2000
State of domicile: Connecticut
League Insurance Agency is the 100% owner of the following subsidiary:
a. Member Protection Insurance Plans Business: Insurance Agency Incorporated on August 21, 1991 Acquired on August 31, 2000 State of domicile: Connecticut
Item 25. Indemnification
Currently under Delaware law, business trusts organized in Delaware are now reformed to as "statutory trusts". As a Delaware statutory trust, Registrant's operations are governed by its Declaration of Trust dated May 16, 1997 (the "Declaration of Trust"). Generally, Delaware statutory trust shareholders are not personally liable for obligations of the Delaware statutory trust under Delaware law. The Delaware Statutory Trust Act (the "DSTA") provides that a shareholder of a trust shall be entitled to the same limitation of liability extended to shareholders of private for-profit Delaware corporations. Registrant's Declaration of Trust expressly provides that it has been organized under the DSTA and that the Declaration of Trust is to be governed by Delaware law. It is nevertheless possible that a Delaware statutory trust, such as Registrant, might become a party to an action in another state whose courts refuse to apply Delaware law, in which case Registrant's shareholders could be subject to personal liability.
To protect Registrant's shareholders against the risk of personal liability, the Declaration of Trust: (i) contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of Registrant and provides that notice of such disclaimer may be given in each agreement, obligation and instrument entered into or executed by Registrant or its Trustees; (ii) provides for the indemnification out of Trust property of any shareholders held personally liable for any obligations of Registrant or any series of Registrant; and (iii) provides that Registrant shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of Registrant and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss beyond his or her investment because of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which all of the following factors are present: (i) a court refuses to apply Delaware law; (ii) the liability arose under tort law or, if not, no contractual limitation of liability was in effect; and (iii) Registrant itself would be unable to meet its obligations. In the light of Delaware law, the nature of Registrant's business and the nature of its assets, the risk of personal liability to a shareholder is remote.
The Declaration of Trust further provides that Registrant shall indemnify each of its Trustees and officers against liabilities and expenses reasonably incurred by them, in connection with, or arising out of, any action, suit or proceeding, threatened against or otherwise involving such Trustee or officer, directly or indirectly, by reason of being or having been a Trustee or officer of Registrant. The Declaration of Trust does not authorize Registrant to indemnify any Trustee or officer against any liability to which he or she would otherwise be subject by reason of or for willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of such person's duties.
Insofar as indemnification for liability arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to Trustees, officers and controlling persons, or otherwise, Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Commission such indemnification may be against public policy as expressed in the Act and may be, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a Trustee, officer or controlling person of Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such Trustee, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, 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 26. BUSINESS AND OTHER CONNECTIONS OF INVESTMENT ADVISER
The Investment Adviser for the MEMBERS Mutual Fund is MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. See the caption in Part A entitled "Portfolio Management" for a more complete description.
The officers and directors of the Investment Adviser are as follows:
NAME/ADDRESS POSITION HELD ------------ ------------- David P. Marks MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. 5910 Mineral Point Rd. President; 2005 - Present Madison, WI 53705 Director; 2005 - Present CUNA Mutual Insurance Society Chief Investment Officer; 2005 - Present CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company Chief Investment Officer; 2005 - Present John W. Petchler MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. Vice President 2005 - Present Mary E. Hoffmann MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. 5910 Mineral Point Rd. Secretary and Treasurer; 2000 - Present Madison, WI 53705 Vice President - Finance & Operations 2006 - Present Assistant Vice President - Finance & Operations 2001 - 2006 Molly Nelson MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. Vice President - Chief Compliance Officer 2005 - Present Tracy K. Lien MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. 5910 Mineral Point Rd. Assistant Secretary; 1999 - Present Madison, WI 53705 |
ITEM 27. PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITER
a. CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc., a registered broker-dealer, is the principal Distributor of the shares of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds. CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. does not act as principal underwriter, depositor or investment adviser for any investment company other than the Registrant, the Ultra Series Fund, CUNA Mutual Life Variable Account, and CUNA Mutual Life Variable Annuity Account.
b. The officers and directors of CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. are as follows:
(b) Officers and Directors of CUNA Brokerage.
Name and Principal Positions and Offices Positions and Offices Business Address With the Underwriter With Registrant ------------------ --------------------- --------------------- Mark E. Backes** President/CEO, Director, Vice President Vice Chairman John A. Chosy* Assistant Secretary Director - Associate General Counsel Mark Everson Director None Dennis J. Godfrey Director & Chairman None Katherine I. Grete** Assistant Treasurer Business Finance Team Financial Analysis Manager Timothy Halevan** Chief Compliance Officer Chief Compliance Officer David J. Hughes* Secretary & Treasurer Product Financial Reporting Leader Kevin T. Lenz* Director Senior Vice President Sheila M. Kittleson** Assistant Treasurer Business Finance Team Cost Analyst Manager Tracy K. Lien* Assistant Secretary Senior Law Specialist Steve R. Suleski* Vice President Vice President, Deputy General Counsel Mark T. Warshauer* Director Vice President |
* The principal business address of these persons is: 5910 Mineral Point Road, Madison, Wisconsin 53705.
** The principal business address of these persons is: 2000 Heritage Way, Waverly, Iowa 50677.
c. There have been no commissions or other compensation paid by Registrant to unaffiliated principal underwriters.
ITEM 28. LOCATION OF ACCOUNTS AND RECORDS
The accounts, books and other documents required to be maintained by Registrant pursuant to Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the rules promulgated thereunder are maintained by:
a. MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc.
5910 Mineral Point Road
Madison, Wisconsin 53705
b. CUNA Mutual Insurance Society 5910 Mineral Point Road Madison, Wisconsin 53705
c. Boston Financial Data Services 66 Brooks Drive Braintree, MA 02184
d. State Street Bank & Trust Company 801 Pennsylvania Kansas City, MO 64105
ITEM 29. MANAGEMENT SERVICES
Not applicable.
ITEM 30. UNDERTAKINGS
Not applicable.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act and Investment Company Act, the Fund certifies that it meets all of the requirement for effectiveness of this registration statement under rule 485(a) under the Securities Act and has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Madison, and State of Wisconsin on the day of 4th December, 2006.
MEMBERS Mutual Funds
By: /s/ David P. Marks ------------------------------------ David P. Marks Trustee, President and Principal Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act and Investment Company Act, the Fund certifies that it meets all of the requirement for effectiveness of this registration statement under rule 485(b) under the Securities Act and has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Madison, and State of Wisconsin on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURES AND TITLE DATE -------------------- ---- /s/ Holly S. Baggot 12/08/06 ------------------------------------- Holly S. Baggot, Secretary & Assistant Treasurer /s/ Rolf F. Bjelland* 11/30/06 ------------------------------------- Rolf F. Bjelland, Trustee and Chairman /s/ Linda S. Foltz* 11/30/06 ------------------------------------- Linda S. Foltz, Trustee /s/ Lawrence R. Halverson* 11/30/06 ------------------------------------- Lawrence R. Halverson, Trustee /s/ Mary E. Hoffmann 12/08/06 ------------------------------------- Mary E. Hoffmann, Treasurer /s/ David P. Marks* 11/30/06 ------------------------------------- David P. Marks, Trustee, President and Principal Executive Officer /s/ Dan P. Owens 12/08/06 ------------------------------------- Dan P. Owens, Assistant Treasurer /s/ Steven P. Riege* 11/30/06 ------------------------------------- Steven P. Riege, Trustee /s/ Steve Suleski 12/08/06 ------------------------------------- Steve Suleski, Attorney-in-Fact /s/ Richard E. Struthers* 11/30/06 ------------------------------------- Richard E. Struthers, Trustee |
* Pursuant to Powers of Attorney
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit Number Description ------- ----------- (a)(4) Amendment to Declaration of Trust dated November 30, 2006 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006. (d)(3) Amendment No. 4 to Management Agreement with MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. effective November 30, 2006, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006. |
(d)(15) Letter Agreement with Wellington Management Company, LLP effective February 28, 2006, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(d)(16) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement with Wellington Management Company, LLP incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(d)(17) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement with Paradigm Asset Management Co, LLC incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(d)(18) Letter Agreement between MEMBERS Mutual Funds and MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. effective June 28, 2006, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(e)(1) Distribution Agreement Amend. #3 with CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(l)(6) Subscription Agreement with CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company dated June 16, 2006, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(l)(7) Subscription Agreement with CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Company dated November 30, 2006, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(m)(10) Supplement No. 3 to Service Plan for Class A Shares dated November 30, 2006, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(m)(11) Supplement No. 3 to Distribution Plan for Class B Shares dated November 30, 2006, incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(n)(3) Amended Plan of Multiple Classes of Shares incorporated by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(p)(1)e Amended and Restated MEMBERS Mutual Funds Code of Ethics dated August 30, 2006 incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(p)(4)c Amended and Restated Lazard Asset Management Code of Ethics incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(p)(6)b Wellington Management Company, LLP Code of Ethics incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(p)(7)b Shenkman Capital Management, Inc. Code of Ethics incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(p)(8)a Paradigm Asset Management Co, LLC, Code of Ethics incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
(p)(9)a Oppenheimer Funds Code of Ethics incorporated herein by reference to Registration Statement on Form N-1A (333-29511) filed on December 8, 2006.
Other Exhibits
Powers of Attorney
LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that I, the undersigned, a Trustee of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds (the "Fund"), a business trust duly organized under the laws of the State of Delaware, do hereby appoint, authorize, and empower Steve Suleski or Faye A. Patzner, severally, as my attorney and agent, for me and in my name as a Trustee of the Fund on behalf of the Fund or otherwise with full power to execute, deliver and file with the Securities and Exchange Commission all necessary post-effective amendments to Form N-1A filed by the Fund, File No. 333-29511 and 811-08261, as may be required under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and to do and perform each and every act that said attorney may deem necessary or advisable to comply with the intent of the aforesaid Acts.
WITNESS my hand and seal this 30th day of November, 2006.
/s/ Rolf F. Bjelland ---------------------------------------- ROLF F. BJELLAND |
LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that I, the undersigned, a Trustee of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds (the "Fund"), a business trust duly organized under the laws of the State of Delaware, do hereby appoint, authorize, and empower Steve Suleski or Faye A. Patzner, severally, as my attorney and agent, for me and in my name as a Trustee of the Fund on behalf of the Fund or otherwise with full power to execute, deliver and file with the Securities and Exchange Commission all necessary post-effective amendments to Form N-1A filed by the Fund, File No. 333-29511 and 811-08261, as may be required under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and to do and perform each and every act that said attorney may deem necessary or advisable to comply with the intent of the aforesaid Acts.
WITNESS my hand and seal this 30th day of November, 2006.
/s/ Richard E. Struthers ---------------------------------------- RICHARD E. STRUTHERS |
LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that I, the undersigned, a Trustee of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds (the "Fund"), a business trust duly organized under the laws of the State of Delaware, do hereby appoint, authorize, and empower Steve Suleski or Faye A. Patzner, severally, as my attorney and agent, for me and in my name as a Trustee of the Fund on behalf of the Fund or otherwise with full power to execute, deliver and file with the Securities and Exchange Commission all necessary post-effective amendments to Form N-1A filed by the Fund, File No. 333-29511 and 811-08261, as may be required under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and to do and perform each and every act that said attorney may deem necessary or advisable to comply with the intent of the aforesaid Acts.
WITNESS my hand and seal this 30th day of November, 2006.
/s/ David P. Marks ---------------------------------------- DAVID P. MARKS |
LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that I, the undersigned, a Trustee of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds (the "Fund"), a business trust duly organized under the laws of the State of Delaware, do hereby appoint, authorize, and empower Steve Suleski or Faye A. Patzner, severally, as my attorney and agent, for me and in my name as a Trustee of the Fund on behalf of the Fund or otherwise with full power to execute, deliver and file with the Securities and Exchange Commission all necessary post-effective amendments to Form N-1A filed by the Fund, File No. 333-29511 and 811-08261, as may be required under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and to do and perform each and every act that said attorney may deem necessary or advisable to comply with the intent of the aforesaid Acts.
WITNESS my hand and seal this 30th day of November, 2006.
/s/ Lawrence R. Halverson ---------------------------------------- LAWRENCE R. HALVERSON |
LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that I, the undersigned, a Trustee of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds (the "Fund"), a business trust duly organized under the laws of the State of Delaware, do hereby appoint, authorize, and empower Steve Suleski or Faye A. Patzner, severally, as my attorney and agent, for me and in my name as a Trustee of the Fund on behalf of the Fund or otherwise with full power to execute, deliver and file with the Securities and Exchange Commission all necessary post-effective amendments to Form N-1A filed by the Fund, File No. 333-29511 and 811-08261, as may be required under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and to do and perform each and every act that said attorney may deem necessary or advisable to comply with the intent of the aforesaid Acts.
WITNESS my hand and seal this 30th day of November, 2006.
/s/ Steven P. Riege ---------------------------------------- STEVEN P. RIEGE |
LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL PERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that I, the undersigned, a Trustee of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds (the "Fund"), a business trust duly organized under the laws of the State of Delaware, do hereby appoint, authorize, and empower Steve Suleski or Faye A. Patzner, severally, as my attorney and agent, for me and in my name as a Trustee of the Fund on behalf of the Fund or otherwise with full power to execute, deliver and file with the Securities and Exchange Commission all necessary post-effective amendments to Form N-1A filed by the Fund, File No. 333-29511 and 811-08261, as may be required under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and to do and perform each and every act that said attorney may deem necessary or advisable to comply with the intent of the aforesaid Acts.
WITNESS my hand and seal this 30th day of November, 2006.
/s/ Linda S. Foltz ---------------------------------------- LINDA S. FOLTZ |
Exhibit (A)(4)
DECLARATION OF TRUST
OF
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
AMENDED AND RESTATED
NOVEMBER 30, 2006
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE 1 Name and Definitions............................................. 1 1.1. Name............................................................. 1 1.2. Definitions...................................................... 1 ARTICLE 2 Nature and Purpose of Trust...................................... 2 2.1. Nature of Trust.................................................. 2 2.2. Purpose of Trust................................................. 2 2.3. Interpretation of Declaration of Trust........................... 3 2.3.1. Governing Instrument........................................ 3 2.3.2. No Waiver of Compliance with Applicable Law................. 3 2.3.3. Power of the Trustees Generally............................. 3 ARTICLE 3 Registered Agent; Offices........................................ 3 3.1. Registered Agent................................................. 3 3.2. Offices.......................................................... 3 ARTICLE 4 Shares of Beneficial Interest.................................... 3 4.1. Shares of Beneficial Interest.................................... 3 4.2. Number of Authorized Shares...................................... 3 4.3. Ownership and Certification of Shares............................ 4 4.4. Status of Shares................................................. 4 4.4.1. Fully Paid and Non-assessable............................... 4 4.4.2. Personal Property........................................... 4 4.4.3. Party to Declaration of Trust............................... 4 4.4.4. Death of Shareholder........................................ 4 4.4.5. Title to Trust; Right to Accounting......................... 4 4.5. Determination of Shareholders.................................... 4 4.6. Shares Held by Trust............................................. 4 4.7. Shares Held by Persons Related to Trust.......................... 4 4.8. Preemptive and Appraisal Rights.................................. 5 4.9. Series and Classes of Shares..................................... 5 4.9.1. Generally................................................... 5 4.9.2. Establishment and Designation............................... 5 4.9.3. Conversion Rights........................................... 5 4.9.4. Separate and Distinct Nature................................ 6 4.9.5. Rights and Preferences...................................... 6 4.9.5.1. Assets and Liabilities "Belonging" to a Series.......... 6 4.9.5.2. Treatment of Particular Items........................... 7 4.9.5.3. Limitation on Interseries Liabilities................... 7 4.9.5.4. Dividends............................................... 7 4.9.5.5. Redemption by Shareholder............................... 7 4.9.5.6. Redemption by Trust..................................... 8 4.9.5.7. Prevention of Personal Holding Company Status........... 8 4.9.5.8. Net Asset Value......................................... 8 |
4.9.5.9. Maintenance of Stable Net Asset Value................... 8 4.9.5.10. Transfer of Shares...................................... 8 4.9.5.11. Equality of Shares...................................... 9 4.9.5.12. Fractional Shares....................................... 9 4.9.6. Rights and Preferences of Classes........................... 9 ARTICLE 5 Trustees......................................................... 10 5.1. Management of the Trust.......................................... 10 5.2. Qualification.................................................... 10 5.3. Number........................................................... 10 5.4. Term and Election................................................ 10 5.5. Composition of the Board of Trustees............................. 11 5.6. Resignation and Retirement....................................... 11 5.7. Removal.......................................................... 11 5.8. Vacancies........................................................ 11 5.9. Ownership of Assets of the Trust................................. 11 5.10. Powers........................................................... 12 5.10.1. Bylaws...................................................... 12 5.10.2. Officers, Agents, and Employees............................. 12 5.10.3. Committees.................................................. 12 5.10.3.1. Generally............................................... 12 5.10.3.2. Executive Committee..................................... 12 5.10.4. Advisers, Administrators, Depositories, and Custodians...... 13 5.10.5. Compensation................................................ 13 5.10.6. Delegation of Authority..................................... 13 5.10.7. Suspension of Sales......................................... 13 5.11. Certain Additional Powers........................................ 13 5.11.1. Investments................................................. 13 5.11.2. Disposition of Assets....................................... 13 5.11.3. Ownership................................................... 14 5.11.4. Subscription................................................ 14 5.11.5. Payment of Expenses......................................... 14 5.11.6. Form of Holding............................................. 14 5.11.7. Reorganization, Consolidation, or Merger.................... 14 5.11.8. Compromise.................................................. 14 5.11.9. Partnerships................................................ 14 5.11.10. Borrowing................................................... 14 5.11.11. Guarantees.................................................. 15 5.11.12. Insurance................................................... 15 5.11.13. Pensions.................................................... 15 5.12. Meetings and Vote of Trustees.................................... 15 5.12.1. Regular Meetings............................................ 15 5.12.2. Special Meetings............................................ 15 5.12.3. Telephonic Meetings......................................... 15 5.12.4. Quorum...................................................... 16 5.12.5. Required Vote............................................... 16 |
5.12.6. Consent in Lieu of a Meeting................................. 16 ARTICLE 6 Officers......................................................... 16 6.1. Enumeration...................................................... 16 6.2. Qualification.................................................... 16 6.3. Election......................................................... 16 6.4. Term of Office................................................... 16 6.5. Powers........................................................... 17 6.6. Titles and Duties................................................ 17 6.6.1. Chairperson of the Board; President......................... 17 6.6.2. Vice President.............................................. 17 6.6.3. Treasurer................................................... 17 6.6.4. Assistant Treasurer......................................... 17 6.6.5. Secretary................................................... 17 6.6.6. Assistant Secretary......................................... 18 6.6.7. Temporary Secretary......................................... 18 6.7. Resignation, Retirement, and Removal............................. 18 6.8. Vacancies........................................................ 18 ARTICLE 7 Transactions with Officers and Trustees.......................... 18 7.1. Purchase and Redemption of Shares of the Trust................... 18 7.2. Purchase and Sale of Other Securities............................ 19 7.3. Concentration in Any One Issuer.................................. 19 ARTICLE 8 Service Providers................................................ 19 8.1. Investment Adviser............................................... 19 8.2. Underwriter and Transfer Agent................................... 19 8.3. Custodians....................................................... 19 8.4. Administrator.................................................... 20 8.5. Other Contracts.................................................. 20 8.6. Parties to Contracts............................................. 20 ARTICLE 9 Shareholders' Voting Powers and Meetings......................... 20 9.1. Voting Powers.................................................... 20 9.1.1. Matters Requiring Shareholders Action....................... 20 9.1.2. Separate Voting by Series and Class......................... 21 9.1.3. Number of Votes............................................. 21 9.1.4. Cumulative Voting........................................... 21 9.1.5. Voting of Shares; Proxies................................... 21 9.1.6. Actions Prior to the Issuance of Shares..................... 21 9.2. Meetings of Shareholders......................................... 22 9.2.1. Annual or Regular Meetings.................................. 22 9.2.2. Special Meetings............................................ 22 9.2.3. Notice of Meetings.......................................... 22 9.2.4. Call of Meetings............................................ 22 9.3. Record Dates..................................................... 22 |
9.4. Quorum........................................................... 23 9.5. Required Vote.................................................... 23 9.6. Adjournments..................................................... 23 9.7. Actions by Written Consent....................................... 23 9.8. Inspection of Records............................................ 23 9.9. Additional Provisions............................................ 23 ARTICLE 10 Limitation of Liability and Indemnification..................... 24 10.1. General Provisions............................................... 24 10.1.1. General Limitation of Liability............................. 24 10.1.2. Notice of Limited Liability................................. 24 10.1.3. Liability Limited to Assets of the Trust.................... 24 10.2. Liability of Trustees............................................ 24 10.2.1. Liability for Own Actions................................... 24 10.2.2. Liability for Actions of Others............................. 25 10.2.3. Advice of Experts and Reports of Others..................... 25 10.2.4. Bond........................................................ 25 10.2.5. Declaration of Trust Governs Issues of Liability............ 25 10.3. Liability of Third Persons Dealing with Trustees................. 25 10.4. Liability of Shareholders........................................ 25 10.4.1. Limitation of Liability..................................... 25 10.4.2. Indemnification of Shareholders............................. 26 10.5. Indemnification.................................................. 26 10.5.1. Indemnification of Covered Persons.......................... 26 10.5.2. Exceptions.................................................. 26 10.5.3. Rights of Indemnification................................... 27 10.5.4. Expenses of Indemnification................................. 27 10.5.5. Certain Defined Terms Relating to Indemnification........... 27 ARTICLE 11 Termination or Reorganization................................... 28 11.1. Termination of Trust or Series or Class.......................... 28 11.1.1. Termination................................................. 28 11.1.2. Distribution of Assets...................................... 28 11.1.3. Certificate of Cancellation................................. 28 11.2. Sale of Assets................................................... 28 11.3. Merger or Consolidation.......................................... 29 11.3.1. Authority to Merge or Consolidate........................... 29 11.3.2. No Shareholder Approval Required............................ 29 11.3.3. Subsequent Amendments....................................... 29 11.3.4. Certificate of Merger or Consolidation...................... 29 ARTICLE 12 Amendments...................................................... 30 12.1. Generally........................................................ 30 12.2. Certificate of Amendment......................................... 30 12.3. Prohibited Retrospective Amendments.............................. 30 |
ARTICLE 13 Miscellaneous Provisions........................................ 30 13.1. Certain Internal References...................................... 30 13.2. Certified Copies................................................. 30 13.3. Execution of Papers.............................................. 30 13.4. Fiscal Year...................................................... 30 13.5. Governing Law.................................................... 31 13.6. Headings......................................................... 31 13.7. Resolution of Ambiguities........................................ 31 13.8. Seal............................................................. 31 13.9. Severability..................................................... 31 13.10. Signatures....................................................... 31 |
DECLARATION OF TRUST
OF
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
This DECLARATION OF TRUST is amended and restated as of this day, August 31, 2005 by the board of Trustees.
WHEREAS, the Trustees desire to establish a trust for the purpose of carrying on the business of an open-end management investment company; and
WHEREAS, in furtherance of such purpose, the Trustees and any successor Trustees elected in accordance with Article 5 hereof are acquiring and may hereafter acquire assets which they will hold and manage as trustees of a Delaware statutory trust in accordance with the provisions hereinafter set forth; and
WHEREAS, this Trust is authorized to issue its shares of beneficial interest in one or more separate series and classes of series, all in accordance with the provisions set forth in this Declaration of Trust;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Trustees hereby declare that they and any successor Trustees elected in accordance with Article 5 hereof will hold in trust all cash, securities, and other assets which they may from time to time acquire in any manner as Trustees hereunder, and that they will manage and dispose of the same upon the following terms and conditions for the benefit of the holders of shares of beneficial interest in this Trust as hereinafter set forth.
ARTICLE 1
NAME AND DEFINITIONS
SECTION 1.1. NAME. This Trust shall be known as the "MEMBERS Mutual Funds" and the Trustees shall conduct the business of the Trust under that name or any other name or names as they may from time to time determine.
SECTION 1.2. DEFINITIONS. Whenever used herein, unless otherwise required by the context or specifically provided below:
(a) The "1940 Act" refers to the Investment Company Act of 1940 (and any successor statute) and the rules and regulations thereunder, all as amended from time to time;
(b) The "Code" refers to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (and any successor statute) and the rules and regulations thereunder, all as amended from time to time;
(c) "Commission" shall mean the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (or any successor agency thereto);
(d) The "DSTA" refers to the Delaware Statutory Trust Act, Chapter 38 of Title 12 of the Delaware Code (and any successor statute), as amended from time to time;
(e) "Declaration of Trust" or "Declaration" shall mean this Declaration of Trust as amended or restated from time to time;
(f) "Person," "Interested Person," and "Principal Underwriter" shall have the meanings given them in the 1940 Act;
(g) The "Trust" shall mean the Delaware statutory trust established by this Declaration of Trust, as amended from time to time;
(h) "Trustee" and "Trustees" shall mean the signatories to this amended and restated Declaration of Trust so long as such signatories shall continue in office in accordance with the terms hereof, and all other individuals who at the time in question have been duly elected or appointed and qualified in accordance with Article 5 hereof and are then in office;
(i) "Series" shall mean any of the separate series of Shares established and designated under or in accordance with the provisions of Article 4 and to which the Trustees have allocated assets and liabilities of the Trust in accordance with Article 4;
(j) "Shareholder" shall mean a beneficial owner of Shares; and
(k) "Shares" shall mean the shares of beneficial interest in the Trust described in Article 4 hereof and shall include fractional and whole Shares.
ARTICLE 2
NATURE AND PURPOSE OF TRUST
SECTION 2.1. NATURE OF TRUST. The Trust is a statutory trust of the type referred to in the DSTA. The Trustees shall file a certificate of trust in accordance with Section 3810 of the DSTA. The Trust is not intended to be, shall not be deemed to be, and shall not be treated as, a general or a limited partnership, joint venture, corporation or joint stock company, nor shall the Trustees or Shareholders or any of them for any purpose be deemed to be, or be treated in any way whatsoever as though they were, liable or responsible hereunder as partners or joint venturers.
SECTION 2.2. PURPOSE OF TRUST. The purpose of the Trust is to engage in, operate and carry on the business of an open-end management investment company and to do any and all acts or things as are necessary, convenient, appropriate, incidental or customary in connection therewith.
SECTION 2.3. INTERPRETATION OF DECLARATION OF TRUST.
SECTION 2.3.1. GOVERNING INSTRUMENT. This Declaration of Trust shall be the governing instrument of the Trust and shall be governed by and construed according to the laws of the State of Delaware.
SECTION 2.3.2. NO WAIVER OF COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAW. No provision of this Declaration shall be effective to require a waiver of compliance with any provision of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the 1940 Act, or of any valid rule, regulation or order of the Commission thereunder.
SECTION 2.3.3. POWER OF THE TRUSTEES GENERALLY. Except as otherwise set forth herein, the Trustees may exercise all powers of trustees under the DSTA on behalf of the Trust.
ARTICLE 3
REGISTERED AGENT; OFFICES
SECTION 3.1. REGISTERED AGENT. The name of the registered agent of the Trust is Corporation Service Company and the registered agent's business address in Delaware is 1013 Centre Road, Wilmington, Delaware 19805.
SECTION 3.2. OFFICES. The Trust shall maintain an office within the State of Delaware which shall be identical to the business office of the Registered Agent of the Trust as set forth in Section 3.1. The Trustees may, at any time, establish branch or subordinate offices at any place or places where the Trust intends to do business.
ARTICLE 4
SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
SECTION 4.1. SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST. The beneficial interests in the
Trust shall be divided into Shares, all without par value. The Trustees shall
have the authority from time to time to divide the Shares into two (2) or more
separate and distinct series of Shares ("Series") and to divide each such Series
of Shares into two (2) or more classes of Shares ("Classes"), all as provided in
Section 4.9 of this Article 4.
SECTION 4.2. NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED SHARES. The Trustees are authorized to issue an unlimited number of Shares. The Trustees may issue Shares for such consideration and on such terms as they may determine (or for no consideration if pursuant to a Share dividend or split), all without action or approval of the Shareholders.
SECTION 4.3. OWNERSHIP AND CERTIFICATION OF SHARES. The Secretary of the Trust, or the Trust's transfer or similar agent, shall record the ownership and transfer of Shares of each Series and Class separately on the record books of the Trust. The record books of the Trust, as kept by the Secretary of the Trust or any transfer or similar agent, shall contain the name and address of and the number of Shares held by each Shareholder, and such record books shall be conclusive as to who are the holders of Shares and as to the number of Shares held from time to time by
such Shareholders. No certificates certifying the ownership of Shares shall be issued except as the Trustees may otherwise determine from time to time. The Trustees may make such rules as they consider appropriate for the issuance of share certificates, transfer of Shares, and similar matters for the Trust or any Series or Class.
SECTION 4.4. STATUS OF SHARES.
SECTION 4.4.1. FULLY PAID AND NON-ASSESSABLE. All Shares when issued on the terms determined by the Trustees shall be fully paid and non-assessable.
SECTION 4.4.2. PERSONAL PROPERTY. Shares shall be deemed to be personal property giving only the rights provided in this Declaration of Trust.
SECTION 4.4.3. PARTY TO DECLARATION OF TRUST. Every Person by virtue of having become registered as a Shareholder shall be held to have expressly assented and agreed to the terms of this Declaration of Trust and to have become a party thereto.
SECTION 4.4.4. DEATH OF SHAREHOLDER. The death of a Shareholder during the continuance of the Trust shall not operate to terminate the Trust nor entitle the representative of any deceased Shareholder to an accounting or to take any action in court or elsewhere against the Trust or the Trustees. The representative shall be entitled to the same rights as the decedent under this Trust.
SECTION 4.4.5. TITLE TO TRUST; RIGHT TO ACCOUNTING. Ownership of Shares shall not entitle the Shareholder to any title in or to the whole or any part of the Trust property or right to call for a partition or division of the same or for an accounting.
SECTION 4.5. DETERMINATION OF SHAREHOLDERS. The Trustees may from time to time close the transfer books or establish record dates and times for the purposes of determining the Shareholders entitled to be treated as such, to the extent provided or referred to in Section 9.3.
SECTION 4.6. SHARES HELD BY TRUST. The Trustees may hold as treasury shares, reissue for such consideration and on such terms as they may determine, or cancel, at their discretion from time to time, any Shares of any Series or Class reacquired by the Trust.
SECTION 4.7. SHARES HELD BY PERSONS RELATED TO TRUST. Any Trustee, officer or other agent of the Trust, and any organization in which any such person is interested may acquire, own, hold and dispose of Shares to the same extent as if such person were not a Trustee, officer or other agent of the Trust; and the Trust may issue and sell or cause to be issued and sold and may purchase Shares from any such person or any such organization subject only to the general limitations, restrictions or other provisions applicable to the sale or purchase of such Shares generally.
SECTION 4.8. PREEMPTIVE AND APPRAISAL RIGHTS. Shareholders shall not, as Shareholders, have any right to acquire, purchase or subscribe for any Shares or other securities of the Trust which it may hereafter issue or sell, other than such right, if any, as the Trustees in
their discretion may determine. Shareholders shall have no appraisal rights with respect to their Shares and, except as otherwise determined by resolution of the Trustees in their sole discretion, shall have no exchange or conversion rights with respect to their Shares. No action may be brought by a Shareholder on behalf of the Trust unless Shareholders owning no less than a majority of the then outstanding Shares, or Series or Class thereof, join in the bringing of such action. A Shareholder shall not be entitled to participate in a derivative or class action lawsuit on behalf of any other Series or any other Class or on behalf of the Shareholders in any other Series or any other Class of the Trust than the Series or Class of Shares owned by such Shareholder.
SECTION 4.9. SERIES AND CLASSES OF SHARES.
SECTION 4.91. GENERALLY. In addition to the Series and Classes established and designated in Section 4.9.2, the Shares of the Trust shall be divided into one or more separate and distinct Series or Classes of a Series as the Trustees shall from time to time establish and designate.
SECTION 4.9.2. ESTABLISHMENT AND DESIGNATION. The Trustees shall have exclusive power without the requirement of Shareholder approval to establish and designate separate and distinct Series of Shares and with respect to any Series of Shares, to establish and designate separate and distinct Classes of Shares. The establishment and designation of any Series (in addition to those established and designated in this Section below) or Class shall be effective upon the execution by a majority of the Trustees of an instrument setting forth such establishment and designation and the relative rights and preferences of the Shares of such Series or Class, or as otherwise provided in such instrument. Each such instrument shall have the status of an amendment to this Declaration of Trust. Without limiting the authority of the Trustees to establish and designate any further Series or Classes, the Trustees hereby establish and designate the following fourteen Series: Cash Reserves Fund, Bond Fund, Balanced Fund, High Income Fund, Large Cap Value Fund, Large Cap Growth Fund, Mid Cap Value Fund, Mid Cap Growth Fund, Small Cap Value Fund, Small Cap Growth Fund, International Stock Fund, Conservative Allocation Fund, Moderate Allocation Fund, and Aggressive Allocation Fund. The Shares of such Series shall be divided into four Classes designated as "A" Shares, "B" Shares, "D" Shares, and "Y" Shares.
SECTION 4.9.3. CONVERSION RIGHTS. Subject to compliance with the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Trustees shall have the authority to provide that holders of Shares of any Series or Class within a Series shall have the right to convert such Shares into Shares of one or more other Series or Classes in accordance with such requirements and procedures as may be established by the Trustees.
SECTION 4.9.4. SEPARATE AND DISTINCT NATURE. Each Series and Class,
including without limitation Series and Classes specifically established in
Section 4.9.2, shall be separate and distinct from any other Series and Class
and shall maintain separate and distinct records on the books of the Trust, and
the assets belonging to any such Series and Class shall be held and accounted
for separately from the assets of the Trust or any other Series and Class.
SECTION 4.9.5. RIGHTS AND PREFERENCES OF SERIES. The Trustees shall have exclusive power without the requirement of Shareholder approval to fix and determine the relative rights and preferences as between the Shares of the separate Series. The initial Series and any further Series that may from time to time be established and designated by the Trustees shall (unless the Trustees otherwise determine with respect to some further Series at the time of establishing and designating the same) have relative rights and preferences as set forth in this Section 4.9.5, subject to the relative rights and preferences of Classes within each such Series as set forth in Section 4.9.6.
SECTION 4.9.5.1. ASSETS AND LIABILITIES "BELONGING" TO A SERIES. All consideration received by the Trust for the issue or sale of Shares of a particular Series, together with all assets in which such consideration is invested or reinvested, all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, including any proceeds derived from the sale, exchange or liquidation of such assets, and any funds or payments derived from any reinvestment of such proceeds in whatever form the same may be, shall be held and accounted for separately from the other assets of the Trust and of every other Series and may be referred to herein as "assets belonging to" that Series. The assets belonging to a particular Series shall belong to that Series for all purposes, and to no other Series, subject only to the rights of creditors of that Series. Such consideration, assets, income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, including any proceeds derived from the sale, exchange or liquidation of such assets, and any funds or payments which are not readily identifiable as belonging to any particular Series (collectively "General Items"), the Trustees shall allocate to and among any one or more of the Series in such manner and on such basis as they, in their sole discretion, deem fair and equitable. Any General Items so allocated to a particular Series shall belong to that Series. Each such allocation by the Trustees shall be conclusive and binding upon all Shareholders for all purposes. The assets belonging to each particular Series shall be charged with the liabilities in respect of that Series and all expenses, costs, charges and reserves attributable to that Series, and any general liabilities, expenses, costs, charges or reserves of the Trust which are not readily identifiable as belonging to any particular Series shall be allocated and charged by the Trustees to and among any one or more of the Series established and designated from time to time in such manner and on such basis as the Trustees in their sole discretion deem fair and equitable. Each allocation of liabilities, expenses, costs, charges and reserves by the Trustees shall be conclusive and binding upon all Shareholders for all purposes.
SECTION 4.9.5.2. TREATMENT OF PARTICULAR ITEMS. The Trustees shall have full discretion, to the extent consistent with the 1940 Act and consistent with generally accepted accounting principles, to determine which items shall be treated as income and which items as capital; and each such determination and allocation shall be conclusive and binding upon the Shareholders.
SECTION 4.9.5.3. LIMITATION ON INTERSERIES LIABILITIES. Subject to the right of the Trustees in their discretion to allocate general liabilities, expenses, costs, charges or reserves as provided in Section 4.9.5.1, the debts, liabilities, obligations and expenses incurred, contracted for or otherwise existing with respect to a particular Series shall be enforceable against the assets of such Series only, and not against the assets of any other Series. Notice of this limitation on liabilities between and among Series shall be set forth in the certificate of trust
of the Trust (whether originally or by amendment) as filed or to be filed in the Office of the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware pursuant to the DSTA, and upon the giving of such notice in the certificate of trust, the statutory provisions of Section 3804 of the DSTA relating to limitations on liabilities between and among series (and the statutory effect under Section 3804 of setting forth such notice in the certificate of trust) shall become applicable to the Trust and each Series.
SECTION 4.9.5.4. DIVIDENDS. Dividends and capital gains
distributions on Shares of a particular Series may be paid with such frequency,
in such form, and in such amount as the Trustees may determine by resolution
adopted from time to time, or pursuant to a standing resolution or resolutions
adopted only once or with such frequency as the Trustees may determine. All
dividends and distributions on Shares of a particular Series shall be
distributed pro rata to the holders of Shares of that Series in proportion to
the number of Shares of that Series held by such holders at the date and time of
record established for the payment of such dividends or distributions. Such
dividends and distributions may be paid in cash, property or additional Shares
of that Series, or a combination thereof, as determined by the Trustees or
pursuant to any program that the Trustees may have in effect at the time for the
election by each Shareholder of the form in which dividends or distributions are
to be paid to that Shareholder. Any such dividend or distribution paid in Shares
shall be paid at the net asset value thereof as determined in accordance with
Section 4.9.5.8.
SECTION 4.9.5.5. REDEMPTION BY SHAREHOLDER. Each Shareholder shall have the right at such times as may be permitted by the Trust and as otherwise required by the 1940 Act to require the Trust to redeem all or any part of such Shareholder's Shares of a Series at a redemption price per Share equal to the net asset value per Share of such Series next determined in accordance with Section 4.9.5.8 after the Shares are properly tendered for redemption, less such redemption fee, if any, as may be established by the Trustees in its sole discretion. Payment of the redemption price shall be in cash; provided, however, that the Trust may, subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act, make payment wholly or partly in securities or other assets belonging to the Series of which the Shares being redeemed are part at the value of such securities or assets used in such determination of net asset value. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Trust may postpone payment of the redemption price and may suspend the right of the holders of Shares of any Series to require the Trust to redeem Shares of that Series during any period or at any time when and to the extent permissible under any applicable provision of the 1940 Act.
SECTION 4.9.5.6. REDEMPTION BY TRUST. The Trustees may cause the Trust to redeem at net asset value the Shares of any Series held by a Shareholder upon such conditions as may from time to time be determined by the Trustees. Upon redemption of Shares pursuant to this Section 4.9.5.6, the Trust shall promptly cause payment of the full redemption price to be made to such Shareholder for Shares so redeemed.
SECTION 4.9.5.7. PREVENTION OF PERSONAL HOLDING COMPANY STATUS. The Trust may reject any purchase order, refuse to transfer any Shares, and compel the redemption of Shares if, in its opinion, any such rejection, refusal, or redemption would prevent the Trust from becoming a personal holding company as defined by the Code.
SECTION 4.9.5.8. NET ASSET VALUE. The net asset value per Share of any Series shall be determined in accordance with the methods and procedures established by the Trustees from time to time and, to the extent required by applicable law, as disclosed in the then current prospectus or statement of additional information for the Series.
SECTION 4.9.5.9. MAINTENANCE OF STABLE NET ASSET VALUE. The
Trustees may determine to maintain the net asset value per Share of any Series
at a designated constant dollar amount and in connection therewith may adopt
procedures not inconsistent with the 1940 Act for the continuing declarations of
income attributable to that Series as dividends payable in additional Shares of
that Series at the designated constant dollar amount and for the handling of any
losses attributable to that Series. Such procedures may provide that in the
event of any loss each Shareholder shall be deemed to have contributed to the
capital of the Trust attributable to that Series his or her pro rata portion of
the total number of Shares required to be canceled in order to permit the net
asset value per Share of that Series to be maintained, after reflecting such
loss, at the designated constant dollar amount. Each Shareholder of the Trust
shall be deemed to have agreed, by his investment in any Series with respect to
which the Trustees shall have adopted any such procedure, to make the
contribution referred to in the preceding sentence in the event of any such
loss. The Trustees may delegate any of their powers and duties under this
Section 4.9.5.9 with respect to appraisal of assets and liabilities in the
determination of net asset value or with respect to a suspension of the
determination of net asset value to an officer or officers or agent or agents of
the Trust designated from time to time by the Trustees.
SECTION 4.9.5.10. TRANSFER OF SHARES. Except to the extent that transferability is limited by applicable law or such procedures as may be developed from time to time by the Trustees or the appropriate officers of the Trust, Shares shall be transferable on the records of the Trust only by the record holder thereof or by his agent thereunto duly authorized in writing, upon delivery to the Trustees or the Trust's transfer agent of a duly executed instrument of transfer, together with a Share certificate, if one is outstanding, and such evidence of the genuineness of each such execution and authorization and of such other matters as may be required by the Trustees. Upon such delivery the transfer shall be recorded on the register of the Trust.
SECTION 4.9.5.11. EQUALITY OF SHARES. All Shares of each particular Series shall represent an equal proportionate interest in the assets belonging to that Series (subject to the liabilities belonging to that Series), and each Share of any particular Series shall be equal in this respect to each other Share of that Series. This Section 4.9.5.11 shall not restrict any distinctions otherwise permissible under this Declaration of Trust with respect to any Classes within a Series.
SECTION 4.9.5.12. FRACTIONAL SHARES. Any fractional Share of any Series, if any such fractional Share is outstanding, shall carry proportionately all the rights and obligations of a whole Share of that Series, including rights and obligations with respect to voting, receipt of dividends and distributions, redemption of Shares, and liquidation of the Trust or any Series.
SECTION 4.9.6. RIGHTS AND PREFERENCES OF CLASSES. The Trustees shall have exclusive power without the requirement of Shareholder approval to fix and determine the relative rights and preferences as between the separate Classes within any Series. The current Classes (A, B, D, and Y) and any further Classes that may from time to time be established and designated by the Trustees shall (unless the Trustees otherwise determine with respect to some further Class at the time of establishing and designating the same) have relative rights and preferences as set forth in this Section 4.9.6. If a Series is divided into multiple Classes, the Classes may be invested with one or more other Classes in the common investment portfolio comprising the Series. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 4.9.5, if two or more Classes are invested in a common investment portfolio, the shares of each such Class shall be subject to the following preferences, conversion and other rights, voting powers, restrictions, conditions of redemption, and, if there are other Classes invested in a different investment portfolio comprising a different Series, shall also be subject to the provisions of Section 4.9.5 at the Series level as if the Classes invested in the common investment portfolio were one Class:
(a) The income and expenses of the Series shall be allocated among the Classes comprising the Series in such manner as may be determined by the Trustees in accordance with applicable law;
(b) As more fully set forth in this Section 4.9.6, the liabilities and expenses of the Classes comprising the Series shall be determined separately from those of each other and, accordingly, the net asset values, the dividends and distributions payable to Shareholders, and the amounts distributable in the event of liquidation of the Trust or termination of a Series to Shareholders may vary within the Classes comprising the Series. Except for these differences and certain other differences set forth in this Section 4.9.6 or elsewhere in this Declaration of Trust, the Classes comprising a Series shall have the same preferences, conversion and other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends, qualifications, and terms and conditions of redemption.
(c) The dividends and distributions of investment income and capital gains with respect to the Classes comprising a Series shall be in such amounts as may be declared from time to time by the Trustees, and such dividends and distributions may vary among the Classes comprising the Series to reflect differing allocations of the expenses and liabilities of the Trust among the Classes and any resultant differences between the net asset values per Share of the Classes, to such extent and for such purposes as the Trustees may deem appropriate. The allocation of investment income, capital gains, expenses, and liabilities of the Trust among the Classes comprising a Series shall be determined by the Trustees in a manner that is consistent with applicable law.
ARTICLE 5
TRUSTEES
SECTION 5.1. MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST. The business and affairs of the Trust shall be managed by the Trustees, and they shall have all powers necessary and desirable to carry out that responsibility, including those specifically set forth in Sections 5.10 and 5.11 herein.
SECTION 5.2. QUALIFICATION. Each Trustee shall be a natural person. A Trustee need not be a Shareholder, a citizen of the United States, or a resident of the State of Delaware.
SECTION 5.3. NUMBER. The number of Trustees which shall constitute the
entire Board of Trustees shall be not less than five (5) nor more than seven
(7), which number may be increased or decreased by the Trustees, but shall never
be less than the minimum number permitted by the DSTA. No decrease in the number
of Trustees shall have the effect of removing any Trustee from office prior to
the expiration of his or her term, but the number of Trustees may be decreased
in conjunction with the removal of a Trustee pursuant to Section 5.7.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the entire Board of Trustees may be comprised of
only the initial Trustee prior to the effective date of the registration
statement on Form N-1A registering the Trust and Shares under the federal
securities laws.
SECTION 5.4. TERM AND ELECTION. Each Trustee shall hold office until the next meeting of Shareholders called for the purpose of considering the election or re-election of such Trustee or of a successor to such Trustee, and until his or her successor is elected and qualified, and any Trustee who is appointed by the Trustees in the interim to fill a vacancy as provided hereunder shall have the same remaining term as that of his or her predecessor, if any, or such term as the Trustees may determine.
SECTION 5.5. COMPOSITION OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES. No election or appointment of any Trustee shall take effect if such election or appointment would cause the number of Trustees who are Interested Persons to exceed the number permitted by Section 10 of the 1940 Act.
SECTION 5.6. RESIGNATION AND RETIREMENT. Any Trustee may resign or retire as a Trustee (without need for prior or subsequent accounting) by an instrument in writing signed by such Trustee and delivered or mailed to the Chairman, if any, the President, or the Secretary of the Trust. Such resignation or retirement shall be effective upon such delivery, or at a later date according to the terms of the instrument.
SECTION 5.7. REMOVAL. Any Trustee may be removed with or without cause at any time: (1) by written instrument signed by two-thirds (2/3) of the number of Trustees in office prior to such removal, specifying the date upon which such removal shall become effective, or (2) by the affirmative vote of Shareholders holding not less than two-thirds (2/3) of Shares outstanding, cast in person or by proxy at any meeting called for that purpose.
SECTION 5.8. VACANCIES. Any vacancy or anticipated vacancy resulting for any reason, including without limitation the death, resignation, retirement, removal, or incapacity of any of the Trustees, or resulting from an increase in the number of Trustees may (but need not unless required by the 1940 Act) be filled by a majority of the Trustees then in office, subject to the provisions of Section 16 of the 1940 Act, through the appointment in writing of such other person as such remaining Trustees in their discretion shall determine. The appointment shall be effective upon the acceptance of the person named therein to serve as a trustee and agreement by such person to be bound by the provisions of this Declaration of Trust, except that any such appointment in anticipation of a vacancy occurring by reason of the resignation, retirement, or
increase in number of Trustees to be effective at a later date shall become effective only at or after the effective date of such resignation, retirement, or increase in number of Trustees.
SECTION 5.9. OWNERSHIP OF ASSETS OF THE TRUST. The assets of the Trust shall be held separate and apart from any assets now or hereafter held in any capacity other than as Trustee hereunder by the Trustees or any successor Trustees. Legal title to all the Trust property shall be vested in the Trust as a separate legal entity under the DSTA, except that the Trustees shall have the power to cause legal title to any Trust property to be held by or in the name of one or more of the Trustees or in the name of any other Person on behalf of the Trust on such terms as the Trustees may determine. In the event that title to any part of the Trust property is vested in one or more Trustees, the right, title and interest of the Trustees in the Trust property shall vest automatically in each person who may hereafter become a Trustee upon his or her due election and qualification. Upon the resignation, removal or death of a Trustee he or she shall automatically cease to have any right, title or interest in any of the Trust property, and the right, title and interest of such Trustee in the Trust property shall vest automatically in the remaining Trustees. To the extent permitted by law, such vesting and cessation of title shall be effective whether or not conveyancing documents have been executed and delivered. No Shareholder shall be deemed to have a severable ownership in any individual asset of the Trust or any right of partition or possession thereof.
SECTION 5.10. POWERS. Subject to the provisions of this Declaration of Trust, the business of the Trust shall be managed by the Trustees, and they shall have all powers necessary or convenient to carry out that responsibility and the purpose of the Trust including, but not limited to, those enumerated in this Section 5.10.
SECTION 5.10.1. BYLAWS. The Trustees may adopt Bylaws not inconsistent with this Declaration of Trust providing for the conduct of the business and affairs of the Trust and may amend and repeal them to the extent that such Bylaws do not reserve that right to the Shareholders. Nothing in this Declaration shall be construed to require the adoption of Bylaws by the Trustees.
SECTION 5.10.2. OFFICERS, AGENTS, AND EMPLOYEES. The Trustees may, as they consider appropriate, elect and remove officers and appoint and terminate agents and consultants and hire and terminate employees, any one or more of the foregoing of whom may be a Trustee, and may provide for the compensation of all of the foregoing.
SECTION 5.10.3. COMMITTEES.
SECTION 5.10.3.1. GENERALLY. The Trustees, by vote of a majority of the Trustees then in office, may elect from their number an Audit Committee, Executive Committee, Nominating Committee, or any other committee, and may delegate thereto some or all of their powers except those which by law, by this Declaration of Trust, or by the Bylaws (if any) may not be delegated. Except as the Trustees may otherwise determine, any such committee may make rules for the conduct of its business, but unless otherwise provided by the Trustees or in such rules, its business shall be conducted so far as possible in the same manner as is provided by this Declaration of Trust or the Bylaws (if any) of the Trust for the Trustees themselves. All
members of such committees shall hold such offices at the pleasure of the Trustees. The Trustees may abolish any committee at any time. Any committee to which the Trustees delegate any of their powers or duties shall keep records of its meetings and shall report its actions to the Trustees. The Trustees shall have power to rescind any action of any committee, but no such rescission shall have retroactive effect.
SECTION 5.10.3.2. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE. The Executive Committee,
if there shall be one, shall have all of the powers and authority of the
Trustees that may lawfully be exercised by an executive committee, except the
power to: (i) declare dividends or distributions on Shares; (ii) issue Shares;
(iii) recommend to the Shareholders any action which requires the Shareholders'
approval; or (iv) approve any merger, reorganization, or share exchange which
does not require Shareholder approval. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the
Trustees may limit the powers and authority of the Executive Committee at any
time.
SECTION 5.10.4. ADVISERS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEPOSITORIES, AND CUSTODIANS. The Trustees may, in accordance with Article 8, employ one or more advisers, administrators, depositories, custodians, and other persons and may authorize any depository or custodian to employ subcustodians or agents and to deposit all or any part of such assets in a system or systems for the central handling of securities and debt instruments, retain transfer, dividend, accounting or Shareholder servicing agents or any of the foregoing, provide for the distribution of Shares by the Trust through one or more distributors, principal underwriters or otherwise, and set record dates or times for the determination of Shareholders.
SECTION 5.10.5. COMPENSATION. The Trustees may compensate or provide for the compensation of the Trustees, officers, advisers, administrators, custodians, other agents, consultants and employees of the Trust or the Trustees on such terms as they deem appropriate.
SECTION 5.10.6. DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY. In general, the Trustees may delegate to any officer of the Trust, to any committee of the Trustees and to any employee, adviser, administrator, distributor, depository, custodian, transfer and dividend disbursing agent, or any other agent or consultant of the Trust such authority, powers, functions and duties as they consider desirable or appropriate for the conduct of the business and affairs of the Trust, including without implied limitation, the power and authority to act in the name of the Trust and of the Trustees, to sign documents and to act as attorney-in-fact for the Trustees.
SECTION 5.10.7. SUSPENSION OF SALES. The Trustees shall have the authority to suspend or terminate the sales of Shares of any Series or Class at any time or for such periods as the Trustees may from time to time decide.
SECTION 5.11. CERTAIN ADDITIONAL POWERS. Without limiting the foregoing and to the extent not inconsistent with the 1940 Act, other applicable law, and the fundamental policies and limitations of the applicable Series or Class, the Trustees shall have power and authority for and on behalf of the Trust and each separate Series or Class as enumerated in this Section 5.11.
SECTION 5.11.1. INVESTMENTS. The Trustees shall have the power to invest and reinvest cash and other property, and to hold cash or other property uninvested without in any
event being bound or limited by any present or future law or custom in regard to investments by trustees.
SECTION 5.11.2. DISPOSITION OF ASSETS. The Trustees shall have the power to sell, exchange, lend, pledge, mortgage, hypothecate, write options on and lease any or all of the assets of the Trust.
SECTION 5.11.3. OWNERSHIP. The Trustees shall have the power to vote, give assent, or exercise any rights of ownership with respect to securities or other property; and to execute and deliver proxies or powers of attorney to such person or persons as the Trustees shall deem proper, granting to such person or persons such power and discretion with relation to securities or other property as the Trustees shall deem proper.
SECTION 5.11.4. SUBSCRIPTION. The Trustees shall have the power to exercise powers and rights of subscription or otherwise which in any manner arise out of ownership of securities.
SECTION 5.11.5. PAYMENT OF EXPENSES. The Trustees shall have the power to pay or cause to be paid all expenses, fees, charges, taxes and liabilities incurred or arising in connection with the Trust or any Series or Class thereof, or in connection with the management thereof, including, but not limited to, the Trustees' compensation and such expenses and charges for the Trust's officers, employees, investment advisers, administrator, distributor, principal underwriter, auditor, counsel, depository, custodian, transfer agent, dividend disbursing agent, accounting agent, shareholder servicing agent, and such other agents, consultants, and independent contractors and such other expenses and charges as the Trustees may deem necessary or proper to incur.
SECTION 5.11.6. FORM OF HOLDING. The Trustees shall have the power to hold any securities or other property in a form not indicating any trust, whether in bearer, unregistered or other negotiable form, or in the name of the Trustees or of the Trust or of any Series or in the name of a custodian, subcustodian or other depository or a nominee or nominees or otherwise.
SECTION 5.11.7. REORGANIZATION, CONSOLIDATION, OR MERGER. The Trustees shall have the power to consent to or participate in any plan for the reorganization, consolidation or merger of any corporation or issuer, any security of which is or was held in the Trust, and to consent to any contract, lease, mortgage, purchase or sale of property by such corporation or issuer, and to pay calls or subscriptions with respect to any security held in the Trust.
SECTION 5.11.8. COMPROMISE. The Trustees shall have the power to arbitrate or otherwise adjust claims in favor of or against the Trust, any Series, or Class on any matter in controversy, including but not limited to claims for taxes.
SECTION 5.11.9. PARTNERSHIPS. The Trustees shall have the power to enter into joint ventures, general or limited partnerships and any other combinations or associations.
SECTION 5.11.10. BORROWING. The Trustees shall have the power to borrow funds and to mortgage and pledge the assets of the Trust or any Series or any part thereof to secure obligations arising in connection with such borrowing, consistent with the provisions of the 1940 Act.
SECTION 5.11.11. GUARANTEES. The Trustees shall have the power to endorse or guarantee the payment of any notes or other obligations of any person; to make contracts of guaranty or suretyship, or otherwise assume liability for payment thereof; and to mortgage and pledge the Trust property (or Series property) or any part thereof to secure any of or all such obligations.
SECTION 5.11.12. INSURANCE. The Trustees shall have the power to purchase and pay for entirely out of Trust property such insurance as they may deem necessary or appropriate for the conduct of the business, including, without limitation, insurance policies insuring the assets of the Trust and payment of distributions and principal on its portfolio investments, and insurance policies insuring the Shareholders, Trustees, officers, employees, agents, consultants, investment advisers, managers, administrators, distributors, principal underwriters, or independent contractors, or any thereof (or any person connected therewith), of the Trust individually against all claims and liabilities of every nature arising by reason of holding, being or having held any such office or position, or by reason of any action alleged to have been taken or omitted by any such person in any such capacity, including any action taken or omitted that may be determined to constitute negligence, whether or not the Trust would have the power to indemnify such person against such liability.
SECTION 5.11.13. PENSIONS. The Trustees shall have the power to pay pensions for faithful service, as deemed appropriate by the Trustees, and to adopt, establish and carry out pension, profit-sharing, share bonus, share purchase, savings, thrift and other retirement, incentive and benefit plans, including the purchasing of life insurance and annuity contracts as a means of providing such retirement and other benefits, for any or all of the Trustees, officers, employees and agents of the Trust.
SECTION 5.12. MEETINGS AND VOTE OF TRUSTEES.
SECTION 5.12.1. REGULAR MEETINGS. The Trustees from time to time may provide for the holding of regular meetings of the Trustees and fix their time and place.
SECTION 5.12.2. SPECIAL MEETINGS. Special meetings of the Trustees may be called by the President of the Trust on twenty-four (24) hours notice to each Trustee, either personally, by mail, by telegram, or by facsimile transmission. Special meetings shall be called by the President or Secretary in like manner and on like notice on the written request of a majority of the Trustees then in office or a majority of the members of any executive (or comparable) committee of the Trustees.
SECTION 5.12.3. TELEPHONIC MEETINGS. Trustees may participate in a meeting of the Trustees by means of a conference telephone or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other at the same time. Except to
the extent that the 1940 Act has been interpreted otherwise, participation by such means shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.
SECTION 5.12.4. QUORUM. A majority of the Trustees then in office being present in person or by proxy shall constitute a quorum.
SECTION 5.12.5. REQUIRED VOTE. Except as otherwise provided by the 1940 Act or other applicable law, this Declaration of Trust, or the Bylaws (if any), any action to be taken by the Trustees on behalf of the Trust or any Series or Class may be taken by a majority of the Trustees present at a meeting of Trustees at which a quorum is present.
SECTION 5.12.6. CONSENT IN LIEU OF A MEETING. Except as otherwise provided by the 1940 Act or other applicable law, the Trustees may, by unanimous written consent of the Trustees then in office, take any action which may have been taken at a meeting of the Trustees or any committee thereof.
ARTICLE 6
OFFICERS
SECTION 6.1. ENUMERATION. The officers of the Trust shall be a President, one or more Vice Presidents, a Treasurer, and a Secretary. The Trustees may also appoint such other officers, including a Chairperson of the Board, Assistant Treasurers, and/or Assistant Secretaries. The Trust may also have such agents as the Trustees from time to time may in their discretion appoint. Any two or more offices may be held by the same person except that the same person may not be both President and Vice President, and that a person who holds more than one office may not act in more than one capacity to execute, acknowledge, or verify an instrument required by law to be executed, acknowledged, or verified by more than one officer.
SECTION 6.2. QUALIFICATION. The Chairperson of the Board, if there shall be one, shall be a Trustee and may, but need not be, a shareholder. Any other officer may, but need not be, a Trustee or shareholder.
SECTION 6.3. ELECTION. The President, Treasurer, and Secretary shall be elected by the Trustees at the first meeting of the Trustees. Other officers, if any, may be elected or appointed by the Trustees at any meeting of the Trustees or at any other time.
SECTION 6.4. TERM OF OFFICE. The Chairperson of the Board, the President, the Treasurer, and the Secretary shall hold office until their respective successors are chosen and qualified, or in each case until he or she sooner dies, resigns, is removed, or becomes disqualified. Each other officer shall hold office and each agent shall retain authority at the pleasure of the Trustees.
SECTION 6.5. POWERS. Subject to the other provisions of these Bylaws, each officer shall have, in addition to the duties and powers set forth herein and in the Declaration of Trust, such duties and powers as are commonly incident to the office occupied by such officer as if the Trust were organized as a Delaware business corporation and such other duties and powers as the Trustees may from time to time designate.
SECTION 6.6. TITLES AND DUTIES.
SECTION 6.6.1. CHAIRPERSON OF THE BOARD; PRESIDENT. Unless the Trustees otherwise provide, the Chairperson of the Board, or, if there is no Chairperson or in the absence of the Chairperson, the President, shall preside at all meetings of the shareholders and of the Trustees. Unless the Trustees otherwise provide, the President shall be the Chief Executive Officer of the Trust. The Chairperson of the Board and the President shall each also perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Trustees may from time to time prescribe.
SECTION 6.6.2. VICE PRESIDENT. In the absence of the President or in the event of his or her inability or refusal to act, the Vice President, or if there is more than one Vice President, the Vice Presidents in their order of election or in such other order as determined by the Trustees, shall perform the duties of the President, and when so acting shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the President. The Vice Presidents shall also perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Trustees or the President may from time to time prescribe.
SECTION 6.6.3. TREASURER. The Treasurer shall be the chief financial and accounting officer of the Trust, and shall, subject to the provisions of the Declaration of Trust and to any arrangement made by the Trustees with a custodian, investment adviser or manager, or transfer, shareholder servicing or similar agent, be in charge of the valuable papers, books of account and accounting records of the Trust. The Treasurer shall also perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Trustees or the President may from time to time prescribe.
SECTION 6.6.4. ASSISTANT TREASURER. In the absence of the Treasurer or in the event of his or her inability or refusal to act, the Assistant Treasurer, or if there is more than one, the Assistant Treasurers in their order of election or in such other order as determined by the Trustees, shall perform the duties of the Treasurer, and when so acting shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the Treasurer. The Assistant Treasurers shall also perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Trustees or the President may from time to time prescribe.
SECTION 6.6.5. SECRETARY. The Secretary shall record all proceedings of the shareholders and the Trustees in books to be kept for such purposes, which books or a copy thereof shall be kept at the principal office of the Trust or at such other place as designated by the Trustees. The Secretary shall also perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Trustees or the President may from time to time prescribe.
SECTION 6.6.6. ASSISTANT SECRETARY. In the absence of the Secretary or in the event of his or her inability or refusal to act, the Assistant Secretary, or if there is more than one, the Assistant Secretaries in their order of election or in such other order as determined by the Trustees, shall perform the duties of the Secretary, and when so acting shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the Secretary. The Assistant Secretaries shall also perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Board of Trustees or the President may from time to time prescribe.
SECTION 6.6.7. TEMPORARY SECRETARY. In the absence of the Secretary and all Assistant Secretaries from any meeting of the shareholders or Trustees, the Trustees may appoint a temporary secretary at such meeting, who shall perform the duties of the Secretary for the purposes of such meeting.
SECTION 6.7. RESIGNATION, RETIREMENT, AND REMOVAL. Any officer may resign at any time by written instrument signed by him or her delivered to the Chairperson of the Board, President, or Secretary or delivered to a meeting of the Trustees. Such resignation shall be effective upon receipt unless specified to be effective at some other time. The Trustees may remove any officer elected by them with or without cause by the vote or written consent of a majority of the Trustees then in office. To the extent that any officer or Trustee of the Trust receives compensation from the Trust and except as may otherwise be expressly provided in a written agreement with the Trust, no Trustee or officer resigning and no officer removed shall have any right to any compensation for any period following his or her resignation or removal, or any right to damages on account of such removal.
SECTION 6.8. VACANCIES. Any vacancy or anticipated vacancy resulting for any reason, including without limitation the death, resignation, retirement, removal, or incapacity of the Chairperson of the Board, the President, the Treasurer, or the Secretary may be filled by a majority of the Trustees then in office through the appointment in writing of such other person as such remaining Trustees in their discretion shall determine. The appointment shall be effective upon the written acceptance of the person named therein to serve as in the capacity named therein. Other vacancies may be filled, if at all, by the Trustees at a meeting of the Trustees or at any other time.
ARTICLE 7
TRANSACTIONS WITH OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES
SECTION 7.1. PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION OF SHARES OF THE TRUST. Any Trustee, officer or other agent of the Trust may acquire, own and dispose of Shares to the same extent as if he were not a Trustee, officer or agent, and the Trustees may accept subscriptions to purchase Shares or orders to redeem Shares from any firm or company in which any Trustee, officer or other agent of the Trust may have an interest.
SECTION 7.2. PURCHASE AND SALE OF OTHER SECURITIES. The Trust shall not purchase any securities (other than Shares) from, or sell any securities (other than Shares) to, any Trustee or officer of the Trust, or any director, trustee, officer, or partner of any firm which acts as
investment adviser or principal underwriter for the Trust acting as principal, except to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act or the rules or regulations thereunder or by appropriate order or written advice of the Commission.
SECTION 7.3. CONCENTRATION IN ANY ONE ISSUER. The Trust shall not purchase or retain securities of a company if all of the Trustees and officers of the Trust and the directors, trustees, officers, or partners of its investment adviser who individually own beneficially more than 1/2% of the securities of the company collectively own more than 5% of such securities.
ARTICLE 8
SERVICE PROVIDERS
SECTION 8.1. INVESTMENT ADVISER. The Trust may enter into written contracts with one or more persons to act as investment adviser or investment subadviser to each of the Series, and as such, to perform such functions as the Trustees may deem reasonable and proper, including, without limitation, investment advisory, management, research, valuation of assets, clerical and administrative functions, under such terms and conditions, and for such compensation, as the Trustees may in their discretion deem advisable.
SECTION 8.2. UNDERWRITER AND TRANSFER AGENT. The Trust may enter into written contracts with one or more persons to act as principal underwriter or underwriter or distributor whereby the Trust may either agree to sell Shares to the other party or parties to the contract or appoint such other party or parties its sales agent or agents for such Shares and with such other provisions as the Trustees may deem reasonable and proper, and the Trustees may in their discretion from time to time enter into transfer agency, dividend disbursement, and/or shareholder service contract(s), in each case with such terms and conditions, and providing for such compensation, as the Trustees may in their discretion deem advisable.
SECTION 8.3. CUSTODIANS. The Trust may enter into written contracts with one or more persons to act as custodian to perform such functions as the Trustees may deem reasonable and proper, under such terms and conditions, and for such compensation, as the Trustees may in their discretion deem advisable. Each such custodian shall be a bank or trust company having an aggregate capital, surplus, and undivided profits of at least one million dollars ($1,000,000).
SECTION 8.4. ADMINISTRATOR. The Trust may enter into written contracts with one or more persons to act as an administrator to perform such functions, including accounting functions, as the Trustees may deem reasonable and proper, under such terms and conditions, and for such compensation, as the Trustees may in their discretion deem advisable.
SECTION 8.5. OTHER CONTRACTS. The Trust may enter into such other written contracts as the Trustees deem necessary and desirable, including contracts with one or more persons for the coordination or supervision of persons providing services to the Trust under one or more of the contracts described in Sections 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, and 8.4.
SECTION 8.6. PARTIES TO CONTRACTS. Any contract of the character described in Sections 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, and 8.4 or in Article 10 hereof may be entered into with any corporation, firm, partnership, trust or association, including, without limitation, the investment adviser, any investment subadviser, or any affiliated person of the investment adviser or investment subadviser, although one or more of the Trustees or officers of the Trust may be an officer, director, trustee, shareholder, or member of such other party to the contract, or may otherwise be interested in such contract, and no such contract shall be invalidated or rendered voidable by reason of the existence of any such relationship, nor shall any person holding such relationship be liable merely by reason of such relationship for any loss or expense to the Trust under or by reason of said contract or be accountable for any profit realized directly or indirectly therefrom; provided, however, that the contract when entered into was not inconsistent with the provisions of this Article 8, Article 10, or the Bylaws (if any). The same person (including a firm, corporation, partnership, trust or association) may provide more than one of the services identified in this Article 8.
ARTICLE 9
SHAREHOLDERS' VOTING POWERS AND MEETINGS
SECTION 9.1. VOTING POWERS. The Shareholders shall have power to vote only with respect to matters expressly enumerated in Section 9.1.1 or with respect to such additional matters relating to the Trust as may be required by the 1940 Act, this Declaration of Trust, the Bylaws (if any), any registration of the Trust with the Commission or any state, or as the Trustees may otherwise deem necessary or desirable.
SECTION 9.1.1. MATTERS REQUIRING SHAREHOLDERS ACTION. Action by the Shareholders shall be required as to the following matters:
(a) The election or removal of Trustees as provided in Sections 5.4 and 5.7;
(b) The approval of a contract with a third party provider of services as to which Shareholder approval is required by the 1940 Act;
(c) The termination or reorganization of the Trust to the extent and as provided in Sections 11.1 and 11.2;
(d) The amendment of this Declaration of Trust to the extent and as provided in Section 10.5; and
(e) Any court action, proceeding or claim brought or maintained derivatively or as a class action on behalf of the Trust, any Series or Class thereof or the Shareholders of the Trust; provided, however, that a shareholder of a particular Series or Class shall not be entitled to vote upon a derivative or class action on behalf of any other Series or Class or shareholder of any other Series or Class.
SECTION 9.1.2. SEPARATE VOTING BY SERIES AND CLASS. On any matter submitted to a vote of the Shareholders, all Shares shall be voted separately by individual Series, except: (i) when required by the 1940 Act, Shares shall be voted in the aggregate and not by individual Series; and (ii) when the Trustees have determined that the matter affects the interests of more than one Series, then the Shareholders of all such Series shall be entitled to vote thereon. The Trustees may also determine that a matter affects only the interests of one or more Classes within a Series, in which case any such matter shall only be voted on by such Class or Classes.
SECTION 9.1.3. NUMBER OF VOTES. On any matter submitted to a vote of the Shareholders, each Shareholder shall be entitled to one vote for each dollar of net asset value standing in such Shareholder's name on the books of each Series and Class in which such Shareholder owns Shares which are entitled to vote on the matter.
SECTION 9.1.4. CUMULATIVE VOTING. There shall be no cumulative voting in the election of Trustees.
SECTION 9.1.5. VOTING OF SHARES; PROXIES. Votes may be cast in person or by proxy. A proxy with respect to Shares held in the name of two or more persons shall be valid if executed by any one of them unless at or prior to exercise of the proxy the Trust receives a specific written notice to the contrary from any one of them. A proxy purporting to be executed by or on behalf of a Shareholder shall be deemed valid unless challenged at or prior to its exercise, and the burden of proving the invalidity of a proxy shall rest on the challenger. No proxy shall be valid more than eleven months after its date, unless it provides for a longer period.
SECTION 9.1.6. ACTIONS PRIOR TO THE ISSUANCE OF SHARES. Until Shares are issued, the Trustees may exercise all rights of Shareholders and may take any action required by law, this Declaration of Trust or the Bylaws (if any) to be taken by Shareholders.
SECTION 9.2. MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS.
SECTION 9.2.1. ANNUAL OR REGULAR MEETINGS. No annual or regular meetings of Shareholders are required to be held.
SECTION 9.2.2. SPECIAL MEETINGS. Special meetings of Shareholders may be called by the President of the Trust or the Trustees from time to time for the purpose of taking action upon any matter requiring the vote or authority of the Shareholders as herein provided or upon any other matter upon which Shareholder approval is deemed by the Trustees to be necessary or desirable. A special meeting shall be called by the Secretary of the Trust upon (i) the request of a majority of the Trustees then in office, or (ii) the written request of Shareholders entitled to cast at least ten percent (10%) of all the votes entitled to be cast at such meeting, provided that (a) such request shall state the purpose or purposes of the meeting and the matters proposed to be acted upon at such meeting, and (b) the Shareholders requesting such meeting shall have paid to the Trust the reasonably estimated cost of preparing and mailing the notice thereof, which the Secretary shall determine and specify to such Shareholders. Upon payment of these costs to the Trust, the Secretary shall notify each Shareholder entitled to notice of the meeting. Unless requested by Shareholders entitled to cast at least a majority of all the votes
entitled to be cast at such meeting, a special meeting need not be called to consider any matter which is substantially the same as a matter voted on at any special meeting of Shareholders held during the preceding twelve (12) months.
SECTION 9.2.3. NOTICE OF MEETINGS. Written notice of any meeting of Shareholders shall be given or caused to be given by the Trustees by mailing or transmitting such notice not less than ten (10) nor more than ninety (90) days before such meeting, postage prepaid, stating the time, place and purpose of the meeting, to each Shareholder at the Shareholder's address as it appears on the records of the Trust.
SECTION 9.2.4. CALL OF MEETINGS. The Trustees shall promptly call and
give notice of a meeting of Shareholders for the purpose of voting upon removal
of any Trustee of the Trust when requested to do so in accordance with Section
9.2.2. For all other matters, the Trustees shall call or give notice of a
meeting within thirty (30) days after written application by Shareholders
entitled to cast at least ten percent (10%) of all the votes entitled to be cast
on the matter requesting a meeting be called.
SECTION 9.3. RECORD DATES. For the purpose of determining the Shareholders who are entitled to vote or act at any meeting or any adjournment thereof, or who are entitled to participate in any dividend or distribution, or for the purpose of any other action, the Trustees may from time to time fix a date and time not more than ninety (90) days nor less than ten (10) days prior to any meeting of Shareholders or other action as the date and time of record for the determination of Shareholders entitled to vote at such meeting or any adjournment thereof or to be treated as Shareholders of record for purposes of such other action. Any Shareholder who was a Shareholder at the date and time so fixed shall be entitled to vote at such meeting or any adjournment thereof or to be treated as a Shareholder of record for purposes of such other action, even though such Shareholder has since that date and time disposed of its Shares, and no Shareholder becoming such after that date and time shall be so entitled to vote at such meeting or any adjournment thereof or to be treated as a Shareholder of record for purposes of such other action.
SECTION 9.4. QUORUM. Except as otherwise required by the 1940 Act or other applicable law, this Declaration of Trust, or the Bylaws (if any), the presence in person or by proxy of Shareholders entitled to cast at least twenty percent (20%) of the votes entitled to be cast on any particular matter shall be a quorum as to such matter; provided, however, that any lesser number shall be sufficient for matters upon which the Shareholders vote at adjournments.
SECTION 9.5. REQUIRED VOTE. Notwithstanding any provision of law requiring the authorization of any matter by a greater proportion, any matter upon which the Shareholders vote shall be approved by the affirmative vote of a majority of the votes cast on such matter at a meeting of the Shareholders at which a quorum is present, except that Trustees shall be elected by the affirmative vote of a plurality of the votes cast at such a meeting.
SECTION 9.6. ADJOURNMENTS. Adjourned meetings may be held within a reasonable time after the date set for the original meeting without the necessity of further notice.
SECTION 9.7. ACTIONS BY WRITTEN CONSENT. Except as otherwise required by the 1940 Act or other applicable law, this Declaration of Trust, or the Bylaws (if any), any action taken by Shareholders may be taken without a meeting if Shareholders entitled to cast at least a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast on the matter (or such larger proportion thereof as shall be required by the 1940 Act or by any express provision of this Declaration of Trust or the Bylaws (if any)) consent to the action in writing and such written consents are filed with the records of the meetings of Shareholders. Such consent shall be treated for all purposes as a vote taken at a meeting of Shareholders.
SECTION 9.8. INSPECTION OF RECORDS. The records of the Trust shall be open to inspection by Shareholders to the same extent as is required for stockholders of a Delaware business corporation under the Delaware General Corporation Law.
SECTION 9.9. ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS. The Bylaws (if any) may include further provisions for Shareholders' votes and meetings and related matters not inconsistent with the provisions hereof.
ARTICLE 10
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION
SECTION 10.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS.
SECTION 10.1.1. GENERAL LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. No personal liability for any debt or obligation of the Trust shall attach to any Trustee of the Trust. Without limiting the foregoing, a Trustee shall not be responsible for or liable in any event for any neglect or wrongdoing of any officer, agent, employee, investment adviser, subadviser, principal underwriter or custodian of the Trust, nor shall any Trustee be responsible or liable for the act or omission of any other Trustee. Every note, bond, contract, instrument, certificate, Share or undertaking and every other act or thing whatsoever executed or done by or on behalf of the Trust or the Trustees or any Trustee in connection with the Trust shall be conclusively deemed to have been executed or done only in or with respect to their or his or her capacity as Trustees or Trustee and neither such Trustees or Trustee nor the Shareholders shall be personally liable thereon.
SECTION 10.1.2. NOTICE OF LIMITED LIABILITY. Every note, bond, contract, instrument, certificate or undertaking made or issued by the Trustees or by any officers or officer may recite that the same was executed or made by or on behalf of the Trust by them as Trustees or Trustee or as officers or officer and not individually and that the obligations of such instrument are not binding upon any of them or the Shareholders individually but are binding only upon the assets and property of the Trust or belonging to a Series thereof, and may contain such further recitals as they or he may deem appropriate, but the omission thereof shall not operate to bind any Trustees or Trustee or officers or officer or Shareholders or Shareholder individually.
SECTION 10.1.3. LIABILITY LIMITED TO ASSETS OF THE TRUST. All persons extending credit to, contracting with or having any claim against the Trust shall look only to the assets of the Trust or belonging to a Series thereof, as appropriate, for payment under such credit, contract or claim, and neither the Shareholders nor the Trustees nor any of the Trust's officers, employees or agents, whether past, present or future, shall be personally liable therefor.
SECTION 10.2. LIABILITY OF TRUSTEES. The exercise by the Trustees of their powers and discretion hereunder shall be binding upon the Trust, the Shareholders, and any other person dealing with the Trust. The liability of the Trustees, however, shall be limited by this Section 10.2.
SECTION 10.2.1. LIABILITY FOR OWN ACTIONS. A Trustee shall be liable to the Trust or the Shareholders only for his own willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of the office of Trustee, and for nothing else, and shall not be liable for errors of judgment or mistakes of fact or law.
SECTION 10.2.2. LIABILITY FOR ACTIONS OF OTHERS. The Trustees shall not be responsible or liable in any event for any neglect or wrongdoing of any officer, agent, employee, consultant, adviser, administrative agent, distributor, principal underwriter, custodian, transfer agent, dividend disbursing agent, Shareholder servicing agent, or accounting agent of the Trust, nor shall any Trustee be responsible for any act or omission of any other Trustee.
SECTION 10.2.3. ADVICE OF EXPERTS AND REPORTS OF OTHERS. The Trustees may take advice of counsel or other experts with respect to the meaning and operation of this Declaration of Trust and their duties as Trustees hereunder, and shall be under no liability for any act or omission in accordance with such advice or for failing to follow such advice. In discharging their duties, the Trustees, when acting in good faith, shall be entitled to rely upon the books of account of the Trust and upon written reports made to the Trustees by any officer appointed by them, any independent public accountant and (with respect to the subject matter of the contract involved) any officer, partner or responsible employee of any other party to any contract entered into hereunder.
SECTION 10.2.4. BOND. The Trustees shall not be required to give any bond as such, nor any surety if a bond is required.
SECTION 10.2.5. DECLARATION OF TRUST GOVERNS ISSUES OF LIABILITY. The provisions of this Declaration of Trust, to the extent that they restrict the duties and liabilities of the Trustees otherwise existing at law or in equity, are agreed by the Shareholders and all other Persons bound by this Declaration of Trust to replace such other duties and liabilities of the Trustees.
SECTION 10.3. LIABILITY OF THIRD PERSONS DEALING WITH TRUSTEES. No person dealing with the Trustees shall be bound to make any inquiry concerning the validity of any transaction made or to be made by the Trustees or to see to the application of any payments made or property transferred to the Trust or upon its order.
SECTION 10.4. LIABILITY OF SHAREHOLDERS. Without limiting the provisions of this Section 10.4 or the DSTA, the Shareholders shall be entitled to the same limitation of personal liability extended to stockholders of private corporations organized for profit under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware.
SECTION 10.4.1. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. No personal liability for any debt or obligation of the Trust shall attach to any Shareholder or former Shareholder of the Trust, and neither the Trustees, nor any officer, employee or agent of the Trust shall have any power to bind any Shareholder personally or to call upon any Shareholder for the payment of any sum of money or assessment whatsoever other than such as the Shareholder may at any time personally agree to pay by way of subscription for any Shares or otherwise.
SECTION 10.4.2. INDEMNIFICATION OF SHAREHOLDERS. In case any Shareholder or former Shareholder of the Trust shall be held to be personally liable solely by reason of being or having been a Shareholder and not because of such Shareholder's acts or omissions or for some other reason, the Shareholder or former Shareholder (or, in the case of a natural person, his or her heirs, executors, administrators or other legal representatives or, in the case of a corporation or other entity, its corporate or other general successor) shall be entitled out of the assets of the Trust to be held harmless from and indemnified against all loss and expense arising from such liability; provided, however, there shall be no liability or obligation of the Trust arising hereunder to reimburse any Shareholder for taxes paid by reason of such Shareholder's ownership of any Shares or for losses suffered by reason of any changes in value of any Trust assets. The Trust shall, upon request by the Shareholder or former Shareholder, assume the defense of any claim made against the Shareholder for any act or obligation of the Trust and satisfy any judgment thereon.
SECTION 10.5. INDEMNIFICATION.
SECTION 10.5.1. INDEMNIFICATION OF COVERED PERSONS. Subject to the exceptions and limitations contained in Section 10.5.2, every person who is, or has been, a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust, including persons who serve at the request of the Trust as directors, trustees, officers, employees or agents of another organization in which the Trust has an interest as a shareholder, creditor or otherwise (hereinafter referred to as a "Covered Person"), shall be indemnified by the Trust to the fullest extent permitted by law against liability and against all expenses reasonably incurred or paid by him in connection with any claim, action, suit or proceeding in which he becomes involved as a party or otherwise by virtue of his being or having been such a Trustee, director, officer, employee or agent and against amounts paid or incurred by him in settlement thereof.
SECTION 10.5.2. EXCEPTIONS. No indemnification shall be provided hereunder to a Covered Person:
(a) For any liability to the Trust or its Shareholders arising out of a final adjudication by the court or other body before which the proceeding was brought that the Covered Person
engaged in willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office;
(b) With respect to any matter as to which the Covered Person shall have been finally adjudicated not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that his or her action was in the best interests of the Trust; or
(c) In the event of a settlement or other disposition not involving a final adjudication (as provided in paragraph (a) or (b) of this Section 10.5.2) and resulting in a payment by a Covered Person, unless there has been either a determination that such Covered Person did not engage in willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office by the court or other body approving the settlement or other disposition, or a reasonable determination, based on a review of readily available facts (as opposed to a full trial-type inquiry), that he or she did not engage in such conduct, such determination being made by: (i) a vote of a majority of the Disinterested Trustees (as such term is defined in Section 10.5.5) acting on the matter (provided that a majority of Disinterested Trustees then in office act on the matter); or (ii) a written opinion of independent legal counsel.
SECTION 10.5.3. RIGHTS OF INDEMNIFICATION. The rights of indemnification herein provided may be insured against by policies maintained by the Trust, and shall be severable, shall not affect any other rights to which any Covered Person may now or hereafter be entitled, shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a Covered Person, and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person. Nothing contained herein shall affect any rights to indemnification to which Trust personnel other than Covered Persons may be entitled by contract or otherwise under law.
SECTION 10.5.4. EXPENSES OF INDEMNIFICATION. Expenses of preparation and presentation of a defense to any claim, action, suit or proceeding subject to a claim for indemnification under this Section 10.5 shall be advanced by the Trust prior to final disposition thereof upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the recipient to repay such amount if it is ultimately determined that he or she is not entitled to indemnification under this Section 10.5, provided that either:
(a) Such undertaking is secured by a surety bond or some other appropriate security or the Trust shall be insured against losses arising out of any such advances; or
(b) 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 determine, based upon a review of the readily available facts (as opposed to the facts available upon a full trial), that there is reason to believe that the recipient ultimately will be found entitled to indemnification.
SECTION 10.5.5. CERTAIN DEFINED TERMS RELATING TO INDEMNIFICATION. As used in this Section 10.5, the following words shall have the meanings set forth below:
(a) A "Disinterested Trustee" is one (i) who is not an Interested Person of the Trust (including anyone, as such Disinterested Trustee, who has been exempted from being an Interested Person by any rule, regulation or order of the Commission), and (ii) 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;
(b) "Claim," "action," "suit" or "proceeding" shall apply to all claims, actions, suits, proceedings (civil, criminal, administrative or other, including appeals), actual or threatened; and
(c) "Liability" and "expenses" shall include without limitation, attorneys' fees, costs, judgments, amounts paid in settlement, fines, penalties and other liabilities.
ARTICLE 11
TERMINATION OR REORGANIZATION
SECTION 11.1. TERMINATION OF TRUST OR SERIES OR CLASS. Unless terminated as provided herein, the Trust and each Series and Class designated and established pursuant to this Declaration of Trust shall continue without limitation of time.
SECTION 11.1.1. TERMINATION. Subject to approval by the affected Shareholders, the Trust, any Series, or any Class (and the establishment and designation thereof) may be terminated by an instrument executed by a majority of the Trustees then in office; provided, however, that no approval of affected Shareholders is necessary if a majority of the trustees then in office determines that the continuation of the Trust, Series, or Class is not in the best interests of the Trust, such Series, such Class, or the affected Shareholders as a result of factors or events adversely affecting the ability of the Trust, Series, or Class to conduct its business and operations in an economically viable manner.
SECTION 11.1.2. DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS. Upon termination of the Trust or any Series or Class, after paying or otherwise providing for all charges, taxes, expenses and liabilities, whether due or accrued or anticipated, as may be determined by the Trustees, the Trust shall, in accordance with such procedures as the Trustees consider appropriate, reduce the remaining assets of the Trust to distributable form in cash or other securities, or any combination thereof, and distribute the proceeds to the affected Shareholders in the manner set forth by resolution of the Trustees. To the extent permitted by the 1940 Act or other applicable law, the Trustees may require affected Shareholders to receive Shares of any remaining Series or Class in lieu of such proceeds.
SECTION 11.1.3. CERTIFICATE OF CANCELLATION. Upon termination of the
Trust, the Trustees shall file a certificate of cancellation in accordance with
Section 3810 of the DSTA.
SECTION 11.2. SALE OF ASSETS. The Trustees may sell, convey, or transfer the assets of the Trust, or the assets belonging to any one or more Series, to another trust, partnership, association or corporation organized under the laws of any state of the United States, or to the Trust to be held as assets belonging to another Series of the Trust, in exchange for cash, shares or other
securities (including, in the case of a transfer to another Series of the Trust, Shares corresponding to such other Series) with such transfer either (i) being made subject to, or with the assumption by the transferee of, the liabilities belonging to each Series the assets of which are so transferred, or (ii) not being made subject to, or not with the assumption of, such liabilities. Following such transfer, the Trustees shall distribute such cash, Shares or other securities (giving due effect to the assets and liabilities belonging to and any other differences among the various Series the assets belonging to which have so been transferred) among the Shareholders of the Series corresponding to the Series the assets belonging to which have been so transferred. If all of the assets of the Trust have been so transferred, the Trust shall be terminated pursuant to Section 11.1.
SECTION 11.3. MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION.
SECTION 11.3.1. AUTHORITY TO MERGE OR CONSOLIDATE. The Trust, or any one or more Series, may, either as the successor, survivor, or non-survivor, (i) consolidate with one or more other trusts, partnerships, associations or corporations organized under the laws of the State of Delaware or any other state of the United States, to form a new consolidated trust, partnership, association or corporation under the laws under which any one of the constituent entities is organized, or (ii) merge into one or more other trusts, partnerships, associations or corporations organized under the laws of the State of Delaware or any other state of the United States, or have one or more such trusts, partnerships, associations or corporations merged into it, any such consolidation or merger to be upon such terms and conditions as are specified in an agreement and plan of reorganization entered into by the Trust, or one or more Series as the case may be, in connection therewith. The terms "merge" or "merger" as used herein shall also include the purchase or acquisition of any assets of any other trust, partnership, association or corporation which is an investment company organized under the laws of the State of Delaware or any other state of the United States.
SECTION 11.3.2. NO SHAREHOLDER APPROVAL REQUIRED. Any such consolidation or merger shall not require the vote of the Shareholders affected thereby, unless such vote is required by the 1940 Act or other applicable laws, or unless such merger or consolidation would result in an amendment of this Declaration of Trust which would otherwise require the approval of such Shareholders.
SECTION 11.3.3. SUBSEQUENT AMENDMENTS. In accordance with Section 3815(f) of DSTA, an agreement of merger or consolidation may effect any amendment to this Declaration of Trust or the Bylaws (if any) or effect the adoption of a new declaration of trust or Bylaws (if any) of the Trust if the Trust is the surviving or resulting business trust.
SECTION 11.3.4. CERTIFICATE OF MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION. Upon completion of the merger or consolidation, the Trustees shall file a certificate of merger or consolidation in accordance with Section 3810 of the DSTA.
ARTICLE 12
AMENDMENTS
SECTION 12.1. GENERALLY. Except as otherwise specifically provided herein or as required by the 1940 Act or other applicable law, this Declaration of Trust may be amended at any time by an instrument in writing signed by a majority of the Trustees then in office.
SECTION 12.2. CERTIFICATE OF AMENDMENT. In the event of any amendment to this Declaration of Trust which affects the certificate of trust filed by the Trust in accordance with Section 2.1, the Trustees shall file a certificate of amendment in accordance with Section 3810 of the DSTA.
SECTION 12.3. PROHIBITED RETROSPECTIVE AMENDMENTS. No amendment of this Declaration of Trust or repeal of any of its provisions shall limit or eliminate the limitation of liability provided to Trustees and officers hereunder with respect to any act or omission occurring prior to such amendment or repeal.
ARTICLE 13
MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
SECTION 13.1. CERTAIN INTERNAL REFERENCES. In this Declaration of Trust or in any such amendment, references to this Declaration of Trust, and all expressions like "herein," "hereof" and "hereunder," shall be deemed to refer to this Declaration of Trust as a whole and as amended or affected by any such amendment.
SECTION 13.2. CERTIFIED COPIES. The original or a copy of this Declaration of Trust and of each amendment hereto shall be kept in the office of the Trust where it may be inspected by any Shareholder. Anyone dealing with the Trust may rely on a certificate by an officer or Trustee of the Trust as to whether or not any such amendments have been made and as to any matters in connection with the Trust hereunder, and with the same effect as if it were the original, may rely on a copy certified by an officer or Trustee of the Trust to be a copy of this Declaration of Trust or of any such amendments.
SECTION 13.3. EXECUTION OF PAPERS. Except as the Trustees may generally or in particular cases authorize the execution thereof in some other manner, all deeds, leases, contracts, notes and other obligations made by the Trustees shall be signed by the President, any Vice President, Treasurer, any Assistant Treasurer, Secretary, or any Assistant Secretary, or any officer authorized to do so by the Trustees or any of the foregoing.
SECTION 13.4. FISCAL YEAR. The fiscal year of the Trust shall end on September 30, or such other date as fixed by resolution of the Trustees.
SECTION 13.5. GOVERNING LAW. This Declaration of Trust is executed and delivered with reference to DSTA and the laws of the State of Delaware by all of the Trustees whose signatures appear below, and the rights of all parties and the validity and construction of every provision
hereof shall be subject to and construed according to DSTA and the laws of the State of Delaware (unless and to the extent otherwise provided for and/or preempted by the 1940 Act or other applicable federal securities laws); provided, however, that there shall not be applicable to the Trust, the Trustees, or this Declaration of Trust (a) the provisions of Section 3540 of Title 12 of the Delaware Code or (b) any provisions of the laws (statutory or common) of the State of Delaware (other than the DSTA) pertaining to trusts which are inconsistent with the rights, duties, powers, limitations or liabilities of the Trustees set forth or referenced in this Declaration of Trust. All references to sections of the DSTA or the 1940 Act, or any rules or regulations thereunder, refer to such sections, rules, or regulations in effect as of the date of this Declaration of Trust, or any successor sections, rules, or regulations thereto.
SECTION 13.6. HEADINGS. Headings are placed herein for convenience of reference only, and in case of any conflict, the text of this instrument, rather than the headings, shall control. This instrument may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original.
SECTION 13.7. RESOLUTION OF AMBIGUITIES. The Trustees may construe any of the provisions of this Declaration insofar as the same may appear to be ambiguous or inconsistent with any other provisions hereof, and any such construction hereof by the Trustees in good faith shall be conclusive as to the meaning to be given to such provisions. In construing this Declaration, the presumption shall be in favor of a grant of power to the Trustees.
SECTION 13.8. SEAL. No official seal of the Trust shall be required to execute any instruments on behalf of the Trust in accordance with Section 13.3.
SECTION 13.9. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Declaration of Trust are severable, and if the Trustees shall determine, with the advice of counsel, that any of such provision is in conflict with the 1940 Act, the DSTA, or with other applicable laws and regulations, the conflicting provision shall be deemed never to have constituted a part of this Declaration of Trust; provided, however, that such determination shall not affect any of the remaining provisions of this Declaration of Trust or render invalid or improper any action taken or omitted prior to such determination. If any provision of this Declaration of Trust shall be held invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction, such invalidity or unenforceability shall attach only to such provision in such jurisdiction and shall not in any manner affect such provision in any other jurisdiction or any other provision of this Declaration of Trust in any jurisdiction.
SECTION 13.10. SIGNATURES. To the extent permitted by applicable law, any instrument signed pursuant to a validly executed power of attorney shall be deemed to have been signed by the Trustee or officer executing the power of attorney.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, being the Trustees of the Trust, have executed this Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust as of the date first written above.
/s/ David P. Marks ---------------------------------------- David P. Marks /s/ Lawrence R. Halverson ---------------------------------------- Lawrence R. Halverson /s/ Rolf F. Bjelland ---------------------------------------- Rolf F. Bjelland /s/ Gwendolyn Boeke ---------------------------------------- Gwendolyn Boeke /s/ Steven P. Riege ---------------------------------------- Steven P. Riege /s/ Richard E. Struthers ---------------------------------------- Richard E. Struthers |
Exhibit (d)(3)
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
AMENDED AND RESTATED
MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
AMENDMENT #4
THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT ("AGREEMENT") is made this 30th day of November, 2006 by and between MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS, a statutory trust organized and existing under the laws of the State of Delaware (the "TRUST"), and MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC. (the "MANAGER"), a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the state of Iowa.
RECITALS
1. The Trust is a series-type, open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 ACT"), that currently consists of twelve investment portfolios (each, a "FUND") designated as Cash Reserves Fund, Bond Fund, Balanced Fund, High Income Fund, Large Cap Value Fund, Large Cap Growth Fund, Mid Cap Value Fund, Mid Cap Growth Fund, Small Cap Value Fund, Small Cap Growth Fund, International Stock Fund, Aggressive Allocation Fund, Moderate Allocation Fund, and Conservative Allocation Fund, each such Fund having its own investment objective;
2. The Trust issues a separate series of shares of beneficial interest for each Fund, which shares represent fractional undivided interests in the Fund;
3. The Manager is engaged principally in rendering investment advisory services and is registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "ADVISERS ACT");
4. The Trust desires to retain the Manager to provide or to arrange to provide investment advisory and certain administrative services, in the manner and on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement; and
5. The Manager is willing to provide or to arrange to provide investment advisory services to the Trust and each Fund on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants hereinafter contained, the Trust and the Manager hereby agree as follows:
AGREEMENT
ARTICLE I
DUTIES OF THE MANAGER
The Trust hereby engages the Manager to act as the Trust's investment manager to provide or to arrange to provide directly or through third parties, investment advisory and certain administrative services to each existing Fund of the Trust and to any additional Funds that the Trust may establish in the future; and to provide or to arrange to provide the above services subject to the supervision of the board of trustees of the Trust (the "BOARD"), for the period and on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement. The Manager hereby accepts such
engagement and agrees during such period, at its own expense, to provide or to arrange to provide, such investment advisory and management services, and to assume the obligations set forth in this Agreement for the compensation provided for herein. Subject to the provisions of the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act, the Manager may retain any affiliated or unaffiliated parties including, but not limited to, investment adviser(s) and/or investment sub-adviser(s) and administrator(s) to perform any or all of the services set forth in this Agreement.
The Manager, its affiliates and any investment adviser(s), sub-adviser(s), administrator(s) or other parties performing services for the Manager shall for all purposes herein be deemed to be independent contractors and shall, unless otherwise expressly provided or authorized, have no authority to act for or represent the Trust or a Fund in any way or otherwise be deemed agents of the Trust or a Fund.
The Manager shall, for purposes of this Agreement, have and exercise full investment discretion and authority to act as agent for the Trust in buying, selling or otherwise disposing of or managing the Trust's investments, directly or through sub-advisers, subject to supervision by the Board.
The Manager and any other party performing services covered by this Agreement (each such party is hereafter referred to as a "SERVICE PROVIDER") shall be subject to: (1) the restrictions of the Declaration of Trust of the Trust, as amended from time to time; (2) the provisions of the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act; (3) the statements relating to the Funds' investment objectives, investment policies and investment restrictions as set forth in the currently effective (and as amended from time to time) registration statement of the Trust (the "REGISTRATION STATEMENT") under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 ACT"); (4) appropriate state securities laws; and (5) any applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "CODE").
(A) INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES.
The Manager shall provide the Trust directly or through sub-advisers with such investment research, advice and supervision as the Trust may from time to time consider necessary for the proper management of the assets of each Fund, shall furnish continuously an investment program for each Fund, shall determine from time to time which securities or other investments shall be purchased, sold or exchanged and what portions of each Fund shall be held in the various securities or other investments or cash, and shall take such steps as are necessary to implement an overall investment plan for each Fund, including providing or obtaining such services as may be necessary in managing, acquiring or disposing of securities, cash or other investments.
The Trust has furnished or will furnish the Manager (who is authorized to furnish any Service Provider) with copies of the Trust's registration statement and Declaration of Trust as currently in effect and agrees during the continuance of this Agreement to furnish the Manager with copies of any amendments or supplements thereto before or at the time the amendments or supplements become effective. The Manager and any Service Providers will be entitled to rely on all documents furnished by the Trust.
The Manager represents that in performing investment advisory services for each Fund, the Manager shall make every effort to ensure that: (1) each Fund continuously qualifies as a
regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Code or any successor provision; and (2) any applicable state securities law restrictions on investments that operate to limit or restrict the investments that a Fund may otherwise make are complied with as well as any changes thereto. Except as instructed by the Board, the Manager shall also make decisions for the Trust as to the manner in which voting rights, rights to consent to corporate action, and any other rights pertaining to the Trust's securities shall be exercised. If the Board at any time makes any determination as to investment policy and notifies the Manager of such determination, the Manager shall be bound by such determination for the period, if any, specified in the notice or until similarly notified that such determination has been revoked.
The Manager shall take, on behalf of each Fund, all actions which it deems necessary to implement the investment policies of such Fund, and in particular, to place all orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio investments for the account of each Fund with brokers, dealers, futures commission merchants or financial institutions selected by the Manager. The Manager also is authorized as the agent of the Trust to give instructions to any custodian of the Trust as to deliveries of securities and payments of cash for the account of each Fund. In selecting brokers or dealers and placing purchase and sale orders with respect to assets of the Fund, the Manager is directed at all times to seek to obtain best execution and price within the policy guidelines determined by the Board and set forth in the current registration statement. Subject to this requirement and the provisions of the Act, the Advisers Act, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 ACT"), and other applicable provisions of law, the Manager may select brokers or dealers that are affiliated with the Manager or the Trust.
In addition to seeking the best price and execution, the Manager may also take into consideration research and statistical information, wire, quotation and other services provided by brokers and dealers to the Manager. The Manager is also authorized to effect individual securities transactions at commission rates in excess of the minimum commission rates available, if the Manager determines in good faith that such amount of commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage, research and other services provided by such broker or dealer, viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or the Manager's overall responsibilities with respect to each Fund. The execution of such transactions shall not be deemed to represent an unlawful act or breach of any duty created by this Agreement or otherwise. The policies with respect to brokerage allocation, determined from time to time by the Board are those disclosed in the currently effective registration statement. The Manager will periodically evaluate the statistical data, research and other investment services provided to it by brokers and dealers. Such services may be used by the Manager in connection with the performance of its obligations under this Agreement or in connection with other advisory or investment operations including using such information in managing its own accounts.
As part of carrying out its obligations to manage the investment and reinvestment of the assets of each Fund consistent with the requirements under the 1940 Act, the Manager shall:
(1) Perform research and obtain and analyze pertinent economic, statistical, and financial data relevant to the investment policies of each Fund as set forth in the Trust's registration statement;
(2) Consult with the Board and furnish to the Board recommendations with respect to an overall investment strategy for each Fund for approval, modification, or rejection by the Board;
(3) Seek out and implement specific investment opportunities, consistent with any investment strategies approved by the Board;
(4) Take such steps as are necessary to implement any overall investment strategies approved by the Board for each Fund, including making and carrying out day-to-day decisions to acquire or dispose of permissible investments, managing investments and any other property of the Fund, and providing or obtaining such services as may be necessary in managing, acquiring or disposing of investments;
(5) Regularly report to the Board with respect to the implementation of any approved overall investment strategy and any other activities in connection with management of the assets of each Fund including furnishing, within 60 days after the end of each quarter, a statement of investment performance for the period since the last report and a schedule of investments and other assets of each Fund as of the end of the quarter;
(6) Maintain all required accounts, records, memoranda, instructions or authorizations relating to the acquisition or disposition of investments for each Fund and the Trust;
(7) Furnish any personnel, office space, equipment and other facilities necessary for the operation of each Fund as contemplated in this Agreement;
(8) Provide the Trust with such accounting or other data concerning the Trust's investment activities as shall be necessary or required to prepare and to file all periodic financial reports or other documents required to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and any other regulatory entity;
(9) Assist in determining each business day the net asset value of the shares of each Fund in accordance with applicable law; and
(10) Enter into any written investment advisory or investment sub-advisory contract with another affiliated or unaffiliated party, subject to any approvals required by Section 15 of the 1940 Act, pursuant to which such party will carry out some or all of the Manager's responsibilities (as
specified in such investment advisory or investment sub-advisory contract) listed above.
(B) ADMINISTRATION SERVICES.
The Manager shall provide office space, equipment, facilities, and such other services as it, subject to review by the Board, shall from time to time determine to be necessary or useful to perform its obligations under this Agreement. The Manager shall also provide or arrange for the provision of certain administrative services necessary for the operation of the Trust including:
(1) Computation of each Fund's yields and total returns;
(2) Schedule, plan agendas for and conduct meetings of the Board and shareholders;
(3) Coordinate the efforts of the Trust's counsel and auditors;
(4) Prepare required reports, proxy materials and other communications with shareholders;
(5) The creation and maintenance of such records relating to the business of the Trust as the Trust may from time to time reasonably request not otherwise maintained by the Trust's custodian, transfer agent, accounting services agent or sub-advisers;.
(6) Provide clerical, secretarial and bookkeeping services, office supplies, office space, and related services (including telephone and other utility services); and
(7) Monitor state and federal law as it may apply to the Trust or the Funds.
The Manager may contract with qualified Service Providers for the provision of any of the services necessary for the operation of the Trust as described in this Section (b). The Manager shall also, on behalf of the Trust, coordinate the activities of such Service Providers, as well as other agents, attorneys, brokers and dealers, insurers, sub-advisers and such other persons in any such other capacity performing services for the Trust, deemed to be necessary or desirable. The Manager shall make reports to the Board of its performance hereunder and shall furnish advice and recommendations with respect to such other aspects of the business and affairs of the Trust as the Board or the Manager shall consider desirable.
ARTICLE II
ALLOCATION OF CHARGES AND EXPENSES
(A) THE MANAGER. The Manager assumes the expense of and shall pay for maintaining the staff and personnel necessary to perform its obligations under this Agreement, and shall at its own expense provide the office space, equipment and facilities that it is obligated to provide under this Agreement, and shall pay all compensation of officers of the Trust and all trustees of the Trust who are affiliated persons of the Manager, except as otherwise specified in this Agreement.
(B) THE TRUST. The Trust assumes and shall pay or cause to be paid all other expenses of the Trust, including, without limitation: taxes, expenses for legal, administration (including amounts paid directly by Trust to third party providers under separate agreements with the Trust), accounting and auditing services (including amounts paid directly by Trust to third party providers under separate agreements with the Trust), costs of printing and distributing proxy materials, shareholder reports and prospectuses (except to the extent that such prospectuses and shareholder reports are used in connection with the sale and distribution of the Trust's shares), custody and transfer agency fees, expenses of redeeming shares, Securities and Exchange Commission fees, expenses of registering the Trust's shares under state or federal laws, fees and actual out-of-pocket expenses of trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust, accounting and pricing costs (including the daily calculation of the net asset value), insurance, interest, brokerage expenses, litigation and other extraordinary or nonrecurring expenses, and other expenses properly payable by the Trust.
ARTICLE III
COMPENSATION OF THE MANAGER
For the services rendered, the facilities furnished and expenses assumed by the Manager, the Trust shall pay to the Manager at the end of each calendar month a fee calculated as a percentage of the average value of the net assets each day for each Fund during that month at the following annual rates:
Large Cap Growth Fund 0.75% Balanced Fund 0.65% Large Cap Value Fund 0.55% Bond Fund 0.50% Cash Reserves Fund 0.40% High Income Fund 0.55% International Stock Fund 1.05% Mid Cap Growth Fund 0.75% Mid Cap Value Fund 0.95% Small Cap Value Fund 1.00% Small Cap Growth Fund 1.00% Conservative Allocation Fund 0.30% Moderate Allocation Fund 0.30% Aggressive Allocation Fund 0.30% |
The Manager's fee shall be accrued daily at 1/365th of the applicable annual rate set forth above. For the purpose of accruing compensation, the net assets of each Fund shall be
determined in the manner and on the dates set forth in the Declaration of Trust or the current registration statement of the Trust and, on days on which the net assets are not so determined, the net asset value computation to be used shall be as determined on the immediately preceding day on which the net assets were determined.
In the event of termination of this Agreement, all compensation due through the date of termination will be calculated on a pro-rated basis through the date of termination and paid within fifteen (15) business days of the date of termination. During any period when the determination of net asset value is suspended, the net asset value of a Fund as of the last business day prior to such suspension shall for this purpose be deemed to be the net asset value at the close of each succeeding business day until it is again determined.
ARTICLE IV
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY OF THE MANAGER
The Manager shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss arising out of any investment or for any act or omission in the management of the Trust, except for (a) willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of reckless disregard of its obligations and duties hereunder, and (b) to the extent specified in section 36(b) of the 1940 Act concerning loss resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty with respect to the receipt of compensation.
ARTICLE V
ACTIVITIES OF THE MANAGER
The services of the Manager are not deemed to be exclusive, and the Manager is free to render services to others, so long as the Manager's services under this Agreement are not impaired. It is understood that trustees, officers, employees and shareholders of the Trust are or may become interested persons of the Manager, as directors, officers, employees and shareholders or otherwise, and that directors, officers, employees and shareholders of the Manager are or may become similarly interested persons of the Trust, and that the Manager may become interested in the Trust as a shareholder or otherwise.
It is agreed that the Manager may use any supplemental investment research obtained for the benefit of the Trust in providing investment advice to its other investment advisory accounts. The Manager or its affiliates may use such information in managing their own accounts. Conversely, such supplemental information obtained by the placement of business for the Manager or other entities advised by the Manager will be considered by and may be useful to the Manager in carrying out its obligations to the Trust.
Securities or other investments held by a Fund of the Trust may also be held by separate investment accounts or other mutual funds for which the Manager may act as an investment adviser or by the Manager or its affiliates. Because of different investment objectives or other factors, a particular security may be bought by the Manager or its affiliates for one or more clients when one or more clients are selling the same security. If purchases or sales of securities for a Fund or other entities for which the Manager or its affiliates act as investment adviser or for their advisory clients arise for consideration at or about the same time, the Trust agrees that the Manager may make transactions in such securities, insofar as feasible, for the respective entities and clients in a manner deemed equitable to all. To the extent that transactions on behalf of
more than one client of the Manager during the same period may increase the demand for securities being purchased or the supply of securities being sold, the Trust recognizes that there may be an adverse effect on price.
It is agreed that, on occasions when the Manager deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interest of a Fund as well as other accounts or companies, it may, to the extent permitted by applicable laws or regulations, but will not be obligated to, aggregate the securities to be sold or purchased for other accounts or companies in order to obtain favorable execution and lower brokerage commissions or prices. In that event, allocation of the securities purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by the Manager in accordance with any written procedures maintained by the Manager or, if there are no such written procedures, in the manner it considers to be most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to the Trust and to such other accounts or companies. The Trust recognizes that in some cases this procedure may adversely affect the size of the position obtainable for a Fund.
ARTICLE VI
BOOKS AND RECORDS
The Manager hereby undertakes and agrees to maintain, in the form and for the period required by Rule 31a-2 and Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act, all records relating to the Trust's investments that are required to be maintained by the Trust pursuant to the requirements of Rule 31a-1 and Rule 2a-7 of the 1940 Act.
The Manager agrees that all books and records which it or any other Service Provider maintains for the Trust are the property of the Trust and further agrees to surrender promptly to the Trust any such books, records or information upon the Trust's request. All such books and records shall be made available, within five business days of a written request, to the Trust's accountants or auditors during regular business hours at the Manager's offices. The Trust or its authorized representative shall have the right to copy any records in the possession of the Manager or a Service Provider that pertain to the Trust. Such books, records, information or reports shall be made available to properly authorized government representatives consistent with state and federal law and/or regulations. In the event of the termination of this Agreement, all such books, records or other information shall be returned to the Trust free from any claim or assertion of rights by the Manager.
The Manager further agrees that it will not disclose or use any records or information obtained pursuant to this Agreement in any manner whatsoever except as authorized in this Agreement and that it will keep confidential any information obtained pursuant to this Agreement and disclose such information only if the Trust has authorized such disclosure, or if such disclosure is required by federal or state regulatory authorities.
ARTICLE VII
DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THIS AGREEMENT
This Agreement shall not become effective unless and until it is approved
by the Board, including a majority of trustees who are not parties to this
Agreement or interested persons of any such party, and by the vote of a majority
of the outstanding votes attributable to the shares of each Fund of the Trust.
This Agreement shall come into full force and effect on the date which it is so
approved, provided that it shall not become effective as to any subsequently
created Fund until it has been approved by the Board, including a majority of
trustees who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such
party specifically for such Fund, and by the vote of a majority of the
outstanding votes attributable to the shares of the initial shareholder of each
such Fund. As to each Fund of the Trust, the Agreement shall continue in effect
for two years and shall thereafter continue in effect from year to year so long
as such continuance is specifically approved for each Fund at least annually by
(i) the Board, or by the vote of a majority of the outstanding votes
attributable to shares of the Fund; and (ii) a majority of those trustees who
are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party cast
in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
This Agreement may be terminated at any time as to any Fund or to all Funds, without the payment of any penalty, by the Board, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding votes attributable to the series of shares representing an interest in the applicable Fund, or by the Manager, on 60 days written notice to the other party. If this Agreement is terminated only with respect to one or more, but less than all, of the Funds, or if a different adviser is appointed with respect to a new Fund, the Agreement shall remain in effect with respect to the remaining Funds. This Agreement shall automatically terminate in the event of its assignment.
ARTICLE VIII
AMENDMENTS OF THIS AGREEMENT
This Agreement may be amended as to each Fund by the parties only if such amendment is specifically approved by (a) the vote of a majority of outstanding votes attributable to the shares of the Fund, and (b) a majority of those trustees who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
ARTICLE IX
DEFINITIONS OF CERTAIN TERMS
The terms "assignment," "affiliated person," and "interested person," when used in this Agreement, shall have the respective meanings specified in the 1940 Act. The term "majority of the outstanding votes" attributable to the shares of a Fund means the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the votes attributable to such Fund present at a meeting if the holders of more than 50% of such votes are present or represented by proxy, or (b) more than 50% of the votes attributable to shares of the Fund.
ARTICLE X
GOVERNING LAW
This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with laws of the State of Delaware, and applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, and the 1934 Act.
ARTICLE XI
SEVERABILITY
If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed and delivered this Agreement as of the date first above written.
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
By: /s/ John W. Petchler ------------------------------------ John W. Petchler Vice President ATTEST: /s/ Diane Fisher ------------------------------------- |
MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.
By: /s/ David P. Marks ------------------------------------ David P. Marks President ATTEST: /s/ Diane Fisher ------------------------------------- |
Exhibit (d)(15)
(WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT(R) LOGO)
Wellington Management Company, LLP
75 State Street
Boston
Massachusetts 02109
Telephone: (617) 951-5000
February 28, 2006
MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc.
5910 Mineral Point Road
Madison, Wisconsin 53701-0391
Re: MEMBERS Mutual Funds Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement
This letter will serve to amend the Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement dated May 1, 2002, (the "Sub-Advisory Agreement") by and between Wellington Management Company, LLP and MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc.
Section 1 of the agreement is amended to delete the reference to Multi-Cap Growth Fund and replace it with Mid-Cap Growth Fund.
Section 9 of the agreement is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following: For the services rendered, the facilities furnished and the expenses assumed by Sub-Adviser, Adviser shall pay Sub-Adviser at the end of each month, a fee based on the average daily net assets of the Sub-Portfolio at the annual rate of 0.50%. Sub-Adviser's fee shall be accrued daily at 1/365th of the applicable annual rate set forth above. For the purposes of accruing compensation, the net assets of the Sub-Portfolio shall be determined in the manner and on the dates set forth in the current prospectus of the Fund, and, on days on which the net assets are not so determined, the net asset value computation to be used shall be as determined on the next day on which the net assets shall have been determined. In the event of termination of this Agreement, all compensation due through the date of termination will be calculated on a pro-rated basis through the date of termination and paid within thirty business days of the date of termination. During any period when the determination of net asset value is suspended, the net asset value of the Sub-Portfolio as of the last business day prior to such suspension shall for this purpose be deemed to be the net asset value at the close of each succeeding business day until it is again determined.
Effective January 1, 2007, the minimum annual fee shall be $1,250,000.00. For purposes of calculating this minimum fee, the revenues generated from the Sub-Portfolio shall be aggregated with the revenues generated from any other affiliated accounts of the Adviser managed by the Sub-Adviser in a similar investment mandate (together, the "Aggregated Assets"). The minimum fee shall be prorated back to the Sub-Portfolio and other affiliated accounts accordingly.
February 28, 2006
All remaining terms and provisions of the Sub-Advisory Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
If you agree to and accept the terms of this letter, please so indicate by signing, dating and returning one of the enclosed copies of this letter to Katy D. Burke. If you have any questions with respect to this letter please do not hesitate to contact Ms. Burke at (617) 790-7961.
Wellington Management Company, LLP
By: /s/ Pamela Dippel --------------------------------- Name: Pamela Dippel Title: Senior Vice President |
MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc.
By: /s/ LAWRENCE R. HALVERSON --------------------------------- Name: LAWRENCE R. HALVERSON Title: SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT |
EXHIBIT(d)(16)
SMALL CAP VALUE FUND
OF
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.
AND
WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP
THIS INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT ("AGREEMENT"), effective as of the 15th day of December, 2006, by and between MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC., an Iowa corporation (the "ADVISER"), and WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP, a Massachusetts limited liability partnership (the "SUB-ADVISER").
Adviser and Sub-Adviser agree as follows:
1. Adviser hereby engages the services of Sub-Adviser in connection with Adviser's management of a portion of the assets (which could be up to 100%) of the SMALL CAP VALUE FUND (the "PORTFOLIO") of MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS (the "FUND"). Adviser intends to use a manager of managers approach to the management of the Portfolio, as well as other portfolios in the Fund. Therefore, the number of sub-advisers and the percentage of assets of the Portfolio managed by each sub-adviser will be determined by the Fund's Board of Trustees and MEMBERS Capital Advisors from time to time. The portion of the assets assigned to the Sub-Adviser will be referred to as the Sub-Portfolio. Pursuant to this Agreement and subject to the oversight and supervision by Adviser and the officers and the Board of Trustees of the Fund, Sub-Adviser shall manage the investment and reinvestment of the assets of the Sub-Portfolio as requested by MEMBERS Capital Advisors.
2. Sub-Adviser hereby accepts employment by Adviser in the foregoing capacity and agrees, at its own expense, to render the services set forth herein and to provide the office space, furnishings, equipment and personnel required by it to perform such services on the terms and for the compensation provided in this Agreement.
3. In particular, Sub-Adviser shall furnish continuously an investment program for the Sub-Portfolio and shall determine from time to time in its discretion the securities and other investments to be purchased or sold or exchanged and what portions of the Sub-Portfolio shall be held in various securities, cash or other investments. In this connection, Sub-Adviser shall provide Adviser and the officers and Trustees of the Fund with such reports and documentation as the latter shall reasonably request regarding Sub-Adviser's management of the Sub-Portfolio's assets.
4. Sub-Adviser shall carry out its responsibilities under this Agreement in compliance with: (a) the Portfolio's investment objective, policies and restrictions as set forth in the Fund's current registration statement, (b) such policies or directives as the Fund's Trustees may from time to time establish or issue, and (c) applicable law and related regulations. Adviser shall promptly notify Sub-Adviser of changes to (a) or (b) above and shall notify Sub-Adviser of changes to (c) above promptly after it becomes aware of such changes.
5. The Sub-Adviser and Adviser acknowledge that the Sub-Adviser is not the compliance agent for the Fund or for the Adviser, and does not have access to all of the Fund's or the Portfolio's books and records necessary to perform certain compliance testing. To the extent that the Sub-Adviser has agreed to perform the services specified in this Agreement in accordance with the Fund's registration statement, the Fund's Declaration of Trust, the Portfolio's prospectus and any policies adopted by the Fund's Board of Trustees applicable to the Portfolio, and in accordance with applicable law, the Sub-Adviser shall perform such services based upon its books and records with respect to the Portfolio, which comprise a portion the Portfolio's books and records, and upon information and written instructions received from the Fund or the Adviser, and shall not be held responsible under this Agreement so long as it performs such services in accordance with this Agreement, the policies of the Fund's Board of Trustees and applicable law based upon such books and records and such information and instructions provided by the Fund or the Adviser. The Adviser shall promptly provide the Sub-Adviser with copies of the Fund's registration statement, the Fund's Declaration of Trust, the Portfolio's currently effective prospectus and any written policies or procedures adopted by the Fund's Board of Trustees applicable to the Portfolio and any amendments or revisions thereto.
6. The Sub-Adviser shall have full and complete discretion to establish brokerage accounts with one or more brokers, dealers or other financial intermediaries as Sub-Adviser may select, including those which from time to time may furnish to Sub-Adviser or its affiliates statistical and investment research information and other services. Sub-Adviser will place orders with or through such brokers, dealers or other financial intermediaries in accordance with Wellington Management's Statement of Policy on Brokerage Practices and the policy with respect to brokerage set forth in the Fund's Registration Statement or as the Board of Trustees or the Adviser may direct from time to time, in conformity with federal securities laws
On occasions when Sub-Adviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interest of the Sub-Portfolio as well as other clients of the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Adviser to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may, but shall be under no obligation to, aggregate the securities to be purchased or sold to attempt to obtain a more favorable price or lower brokerage commissions and efficient execution. In such event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transactions, will be made by the Sub-Adviser in the manner the Sub-Adviser considers to be the most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to the Portfolio and to its other clients.
7. Unless the Adviser gives the Sub-Adviser written instructions to the contrary, the Sub-Adviser shall use its good faith judgment in a manner which it reasonably believes best serves the interests of the Portfolio's shareholders to vote or abstain from voting all proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which assets of the Portfolio may be invested.
The Sub-Adviser shall not file class action claims or derivative shareholder claims on behalf of the Sub-Advised Funds. However, the Sub-Adviser will provide transaction information to the Client or custodian upon reasonable request.
8. Sub-Adviser's services under this Agreement are not exclusive. Sub-Adviser may provide the same or similar services to other clients. Sub-Adviser shall for all purposes herein be deemed to be an independent contractor and shall, unless otherwise expressly provided or authorized, have no authority to act for or represent the Adviser, the Fund or the Portfolio or otherwise be deemed agents of the Adviser, the Fund or the Portfolio.
9. For the services rendered, the facilities furnished and the expenses assumed by Sub-Adviser, Adviser shall pay Sub-Adviser at the end of each month, a fee based on the average daily net assets of the Sub-Portfolio t the annual rate of 0.70%. Sub-Adviser's fee shall be accrued daily at 1/365th of the applicable annual rate set forth above. For the purposes of accruing compensation, the net assets of the Sub-Portfolio shall be determined in the manner and on the dates set forth in the current prospectus of the Fund, and, on days on which the net assets are not so determined, the net asset value computation to be used shall be as determined on the next day on which the net assets shall have been determined. In the event of termination of this Agreement, all compensation due through the date of termination will be calculated on a pro-rated basis through the date of termination and paid within thirty business days of the date of termination. During any period when the determination of net asset value is suspended, the net asset value of the Sub-Portfolio as the last business day prior to such suspension shall for this purpose be deemed to be the net asset value at the close of each succeeding business day until it is again determined.
10. The Sub-Adviser shall maintain all books and records with respect to the
Sub-Advised Fund's portfolio transactions required by subparagraphs (b)(5), (6),
(7), (9), (10) and (11) and paragraph (f) of Rule 31a-1 under the Investment
Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act") and shall render to the Manager
such periodic and special reports as the Manager may reasonably request.
Sub-Adviser agrees that all books and records which it maintains for the Sub-Portfolio or the Fund pursuant to this section are the property of the Fund and further agrees to surrender promptly to the Adviser or the Fund any such books, records or information upon the Adviser's or the Fund's request. All such books and records shall be made available, within five business days of a written request, to the Fund's accountants or auditors during regular business hours at Sub-Adviser's offices. Adviser and the Fund or either of their authorized representative shall have the right to copy any records in the possession of Sub-Adviser which pertain to the Portfolio
or the Fund. Such books, records, information or reports shall be made available to properly authorized government representatives consistent with state and federal law and/or regulations. In the event of the termination of this Agreement, all such books, records or other information shall be returned to Adviser or the Fund, however, the Sub-Adviser may retain a copy of such documents.
11. The Adviser and Sub-Adviser shall cooperate with each other in providing information, reports and other materials to regulatory and administrative bodies having proper jurisdiction over the Portfolio, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser in connection with the services provided pursuant to this Agreement; provided, however, that this agreement to cooperate does not apply to the provision of information, reports and other materials which either the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser reasonably believes the regulatory or administrative body does not have the authority to request or is the privileged or confidential information of the Adviser or Sub-Adviser.
12. Each party to this agreement agrees that it will not disclose or use any records or information of the other party (the "non-disclosing party") obtained pursuant to this Agreement in any manner whatsoever except as authorized in this Agreement and that it will keep confidential any non-public information obtained pursuant to this Agreement and disclose such information only if non-disclosing party (or the Fund, in cases where the non-disclosing party is the Adviser) has authorized such disclosure, or if such disclosure is required by federal or state regulatory authorities.
13. In the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of Sub-Adviser or its officers, Trustees or employees, or reckless disregard by Sub-Adviser of its duties under this Agreement, Sub-Adviser shall not be liable to Adviser, the Portfolio, the Fund or to any shareholder of the Portfolio for any act or omission in the course of, or connected with, rendering services hereunder or for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of any security, except to the extent specified in Section 36(b) of the 1940 Act concerning loss resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty with respect to the receipt of compensation for services.
14. Representations and Warranties.
a. Adviser represents and warrants that:
(1) Adviser is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the Advisers Act. The Adviser shall remain so registered throughout the term of this Agreement and shall notify Sub-Adviser immediately if Adviser ceases to be so registered as an investment adviser;
(2) The Adviser is a corporation duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the State of Delaware with the power to own and possess its assets and carry on its business as it is now being conducted;
(3) The execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement are within the Adviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of its directors, and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Adviser for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by the parties hereto, and the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by the parties hereto does not contravene or constitute a default under: (a) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation; (b) the Advisers' Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws; or (c) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instruments binding upon the Adviser;
(4) This Agreement is a valid and binding Agreement of the Adviser;
(5) The Adviser has provided the Sub-Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and the Adviser further represents that it will, within a reasonable time after filing any amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC furnish a copy of such amendments to the Sub-Adviser. The information contained in the Adviser's Form ADV is accurate and complete in all material respects and does not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading; and
(6) The Adviser acknowledges that it received a copy of the Sub-Adviser's current Form ADV, at least 48 hours prior to the execution of this Agreement and has delivered a copy of the same to the Fund.
b. Sub-Adviser represents and warrants that:
(1) Sub-Adviser is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the Advisers Act. The Sub-Adviser shall remain so registered throughout the term of this Agreement and shall notify Adviser immediately if Sub-Adviser ceases to be so registered as an investment adviser;
(2) The Sub-Adviser is a limited liability partnership duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with the power to own and possess its assets and carry on its business as it is now being conducted;
(3) The execution, delivery and performance by the Sub-Adviser of this Agreement are within the Sub-Adviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of its directors, and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Sub-Adviser for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by the parties hereto, and the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by the parties hereto does not contravene or constitute a default under: (a) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation; (b) the Sub-
Advisers Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws; or (c) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instruments binding upon the Sub-Adviser;
(4) This Agreement is a valid and binding Agreement of the Sub-Adviser;
(5) The Sub-Adviser has provided the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC and the Sub-Adviser further represents that it will, within a reasonable time after filing any amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC furnish a copy of such amendments to the Adviser. The information contained in the Sub-Adviser's Form ADV is accurate and complete in all material respects and does not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading; and
(6) The Sub-Adviser acknowledges that it received a copy of the Adviser's current Form ADV, at least 48 hours prior to the execution of this Agreement and has delivered a copy of the same to the Fund.
15. The Adviser will not use, and will not permit the Fund to use, the Sub-Adviser's name (or that of any affiliate) or any derivative thereof or logo associated therewith in Fund literature without prior review and approval by the Sub-Adviser.
16. This Agreement shall not become effective unless and until it is approved by the Board of Trustees of the Fund, including a majority of Trustees who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party to this Agreement. This Agreement shall come into full force and effect on the date which it is so approved. This Agreement shall continue in effect for two years and shall thereafter continue in effect from year to year so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the Board of Trustees of the Fund, or by the vote of a majority of the outstanding votes attributable to shares of the class of stock representing an interest in the Portfolio; and (ii) a majority of those Trustees who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
17. This Agreement may be terminated at any time without the payment of any penalty, by the Fund's Board of Trustees, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding votes attributable to shares of the class of stock representing an interest in the Portfolio on sixty (60) days written notice to the Adviser and Sub-Adviser, or by the Adviser, or by the Sub-Adviser, on sixty (60) days written notice to the other. This Agreement shall automatically terminate in the event of its assignment or in the event of the termination of the investment Advisery agreement between the Adviser and the Fund regarding the Adviser's management of the Portfolio.
18. This Agreement may be amended by either party only if such amendment is specifically approved by a majority of those Trustees who are not parties to this Agreement or interested
persons of any such party cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
19. The terms "assignment", "affiliated person" and "interested person", when used in this Agreement, shall have the respective meanings specified in the 1940 Act. The term "majority of the outstanding votes attributable to shares of the class" means the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the shares of such class present at a meeting if more than 50% of such shares are present or represented by proxy or (b) more than 50% of the votes attributable to the shares of such class.
20. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with laws of the State of Delaware, and applicable provisions of the Advisers Act.
21. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed and delivered this Agreement as of the date first above written.
MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.
By: /s/David P. Marks ------------------ David P. Marks, President |
WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT COMPANY, LLP
By: /s/Jonathan M. Payson --------------------- Title: Jonathan M. Payson, Senior Vice President |
EXHIBIT(d)(17)
SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
OF
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.
AND
PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT CO., LLC
THIS INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT ("AGREEMENT"), effective as of the 15th day of December, 2006, by and between MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC., an Iowa corporation (the "ADVISER"), and PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT CO., LLC, a _______________ limited liability partnership (the "SUB-ADVISER").
Adviser and Sub-Adviser agree as follows:
1. Adviser hereby engages the services of Sub-Adviser in connection with Adviser's management of a portion of the assets (which could be up to 100%) of the SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND (the "PORTFOLIO") of MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS (the "FUND"). Adviser intends to use a manager of managers approach to the management of the Portfolio, as well as other portfolios in the Fund. Therefore, the number of sub-advisers and the percentage of assets of the Portfolio managed by each sub-adviser will be determined by the Fund's Board of Trustees and MEMBERS Capital Advisors from time to time. The portion of the assets assigned to the Sub-Adviser will be referred to as the Sub-Portfolio. Pursuant to this Agreement and subject to the oversight and supervision by Adviser and the officers and the Board of Trustees of the Fund, Sub-Adviser shall manage the investment and reinvestment of the assets of the Sub-Portfolio as requested by MEMBERS Capital Advisors.
2. Sub-Adviser hereby accepts employment by Adviser in the foregoing capacity and agrees, at its own expense, to render the services set forth herein and to provide the office space, furnishings, equipment and personnel required by it to perform such services on the terms and for the compensation provided in this Agreement.
3. In particular, Sub-Adviser shall furnish continuously an investment program for the Sub-Portfolio and shall determine from time to time in its discretion the securities and other investments to be purchased or sold or exchanged and what portions of the Sub-Portfolio shall be held in various securities, cash or other investments. In this connection, Sub-Adviser shall provide Adviser and the officers and Trustees of the Fund with such reports and documentation as the latter shall reasonably request regarding Sub-Adviser's management of the Sub-Portfolio's assets.
4. Sub-Adviser shall carry out its responsibilities under this Agreement in compliance with: (a) the Portfolio's investment objective, policies and restrictions as set forth in the Fund's current registration statement, (b) such policies or directives as the Fund's Trustees may from time to time establish or issue, and (c) applicable law and related regulations. Adviser shall promptly notify Sub-Adviser of changes to (a) or (b) above and shall notify Sub-Adviser of changes to (c) above promptly after it becomes aware of such changes.
5. The Sub-Adviser and Adviser acknowledge that the Sub-Adviser is not the compliance agent for the Fund or for the Adviser, and does not have access to all of the Fund's or the Portfolio's books and records necessary to perform certain compliance testing. To the extent that the Sub-Adviser has agreed to perform the services specified in this Agreement in accordance with the Fund's registration statement, the Fund's Declaration of Trust, the Portfolio's prospectus and any policies adopted by the Fund's Board of Trustees applicable to the Portfolio, and in accordance with applicable law, the Sub-Adviser shall perform such services based upon its books and records with respect to the Portfolio, which comprise a portion the Portfolio's books and records, and upon information and written instructions received from the Fund or the Adviser, and shall not be held responsible under this Agreement so long as it performs such services in accordance with this Agreement, the policies of the Fund's Board of Trustees and applicable law based upon such books and records and such information and instructions provided by the Fund or the Adviser. The Adviser shall promptly provide the Sub-Adviser with copies of the Fund's registration statement, the Fund's Declaration of Trust, the Portfolio's currently effective prospectus and any written policies or procedures adopted by the Fund's Board of Trustees applicable to the Portfolio and any amendments or revisions thereto.
6. The Sub-Adviser shall have full and complete discretion to establish brokerage accounts with one or more brokers, dealers or other financial intermediaries as Sub-Adviser may select, including those which from time to time may furnish to Sub-Adviser or its affiliates statistical and investment research information and other services. Sub-Adviser will place orders with or through such brokers, dealers or other financial intermediaries in accordance with Paradigm Asset Management's Statement of Policy on Brokerage Practices and the policy with respect to brokerage set forth in the Fund's Registration Statement or as the Board of Trustees or the Adviser may direct from time to time, in conformity with federal securities laws
On occasions when Sub-Adviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interest of the Sub-Portfolio as well as other clients of the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Adviser to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations, may, but shall be under no obligation to, aggregate the securities to be purchased or sold to attempt to obtain a more favorable price or lower brokerage commissions and efficient execution. In such event, allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transactions, will be made by the Sub-Adviser in the manner the Sub-Adviser considers to be the most equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to the Portfolio and to its other clients.
7. Unless the Adviser gives the Sub-Adviser written instructions to the contrary, the Sub-Adviser shall use its good faith judgment in a manner which it reasonably believes best serves the interests of the Portfolio's shareholders to vote or abstain from voting all proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which assets of the Portfolio may be invested.
The Sub-Adviser shall not file class action claims or derivative shareholder claims on behalf of the Sub-Advised Funds. However, the Sub-Adviser will provide transaction information to the Client or custodian upon reasonable request.
8. Sub-Adviser's services under this Agreement are not exclusive. Sub-Adviser may provide the same or similar services to other clients. Sub-Adviser shall for all purposes herein be deemed to be an independent contractor and shall, unless otherwise expressly provided or authorized, have no authority to act for or represent the Adviser, the Fund or the Portfolio or otherwise be deemed agents of the Adviser, the Fund or the Portfolio.
9. For the services rendered, the facilities furnished and the expenses assumed by Sub-Adviser, Adviser shall pay Sub-Adviser at the end of each month, a fee based on the average daily net assets of the Sub-Portfolio t the annual rate of 0.70%. Sub-Adviser's fee shall be accrued daily at 1/365th of the applicable annual rate set forth above. For the purposes of accruing compensation, the net assets of the Sub-Portfolio shall be determined in the manner and on the dates set forth in the current prospectus of the Fund, and, on days on which the net assets are not so determined, the net asset value computation to be used shall be as determined on the next day on which the net assets shall have been determined. In the event of termination of this Agreement, all compensation due through the date of termination will be calculated on a pro-rated basis through the date of termination and paid within thirty business days of the date of termination. During any period when the determination of net asset value is suspended, the net asset value of the Sub-Portfolio as the last business day prior to such suspension shall for this purpose be deemed to be the net asset value at the close of each succeeding business day until it is again determined.
10. The Sub-Adviser shall maintain all books and records with respect to the
Sub-Advised Fund's portfolio transactions required by subparagraphs (b)(5), (6),
(7), (9), (10) and (11) and paragraph (f) of Rule 31a-1 under the Investment
Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act") and shall render to the Manager
such periodic and special reports as the Manager may reasonably request.
Sub-Adviser agrees that all books and records which it maintains for the Sub-Portfolio or the Fund pursuant to this section are the property of the Fund and further agrees to surrender promptly to the Adviser or the Fund any such books, records or information upon the Adviser's or the Fund's request. All such books and records shall be made available, within five business days of a written request, to the Fund's accountants or auditors during regular business hours at Sub-Adviser's offices. Adviser and the Fund or either of their authorized representative shall have the right to copy any records in the possession of Sub-Adviser which pertain to the Portfolio
or the Fund. Such books, records, information or reports shall be made available to properly authorized government representatives consistent with state and federal law and/or regulations. In the event of the termination of this Agreement, all such books, records or other information shall be returned to Adviser or the Fund, however, the Sub-Adviser may retain a copy of such documents.
11. The Adviser and Sub-Adviser shall cooperate with each other in providing information, reports and other materials to regulatory and administrative bodies having proper jurisdiction over the Portfolio, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser in connection with the services provided pursuant to this Agreement; provided, however, that this agreement to cooperate does not apply to the provision of information, reports and other materials which either the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser reasonably believes the regulatory or administrative body does not have the authority to request or is the privileged or confidential information of the Adviser or Sub-Adviser.
12. Each party to this agreement agrees that it will not disclose or use any records or information of the other party (the "non-disclosing party") obtained pursuant to this Agreement in any manner whatsoever except as authorized in this Agreement and that it will keep confidential any non-public information obtained pursuant to this Agreement and disclose such information only if non-disclosing party (or the Fund, in cases where the non-disclosing party is the Adviser) has authorized such disclosure, or if such disclosure is required by federal or state regulatory authorities.
13. In the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of Sub-Adviser or its officers, Trustees or employees, or reckless disregard by Sub-Adviser of its duties under this Agreement, Sub-Adviser shall not be liable to Adviser, the Portfolio, the Fund or to any shareholder of the Portfolio for any act or omission in the course of, or connected with, rendering services hereunder or for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of any security, except to the extent specified in Section 36(b) of the 1940 Act concerning loss resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty with respect to the receipt of compensation for services.
14. Representations and Warranties.
a. Adviser represents and warrants that:
(1) Adviser is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the Advisers Act. The Adviser shall remain so registered throughout the term of this Agreement and shall notify Sub-Adviser immediately if Adviser ceases to be so registered as an investment adviser;
(2) The Adviser is a corporation duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the State of Delaware with the power to own and possess its assets and carry on its business as it is now being conducted;
(3) The execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement are within the Adviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of its directors, and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Adviser for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by the parties hereto, and the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by the parties hereto does not contravene or constitute a default under: (a) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation; (b) the Advisers' Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws; or (c) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instruments binding upon the Adviser;
(4) This Agreement is a valid and binding Agreement of the Adviser;
(5) The Adviser has provided the Sub-Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and the Adviser further represents that it will, within a reasonable time after filing any amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC furnish a copy of such amendments to the Sub-Adviser. The information contained in the Adviser's Form ADV is accurate and complete in all material respects and does not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading; and
(6) The Adviser acknowledges that it received a copy of the Sub-Adviser's current Form ADV, at least 48 hours prior to the execution of this Agreement and has delivered a copy of the same to the Fund.
b. Sub-Adviser represents and warrants that:
(1) Sub-Adviser is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the Advisers Act. The Sub-Adviser shall remain so registered throughout the term of this Agreement and shall notify Adviser immediately if Sub-Adviser ceases to be so registered as an investment adviser;
(2) The Sub-Adviser is a limited liability partnership duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with the power to own and possess its assets and carry on its business as it is now being conducted;
(3) The execution, delivery and performance by the Sub-Adviser of this Agreement are within the Sub-Adviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of its directors, and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Sub-Adviser for the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by the parties hereto, and the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by the parties hereto does not contravene or constitute a default under: (a) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation; (b) the Sub-
Advisers Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws; or (c) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instruments binding upon the Sub-Adviser;
(4) This Agreement is a valid and binding Agreement of the Sub-Adviser;
(5) The Sub-Adviser has provided the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC and the Sub-Adviser further represents that it will, within a reasonable time after filing any amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC furnish a copy of such amendments to the Adviser. The information contained in the Sub-Adviser's Form ADV is accurate and complete in all material respects and does not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading; and
(6) The Sub-Adviser acknowledges that it received a copy of the Adviser's current Form ADV, at least 48 hours prior to the execution of this Agreement and has delivered a copy of the same to the Fund.
15. The Adviser will not use, and will not permit the Fund to use, the Sub-Adviser's name (or that of any affiliate) or any derivative thereof or logo associated therewith in Fund literature without prior review and approval by the Sub-Adviser.
16. This Agreement shall not become effective unless and until it is approved by the Board of Trustees of the Fund, including a majority of Trustees who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party to this Agreement. This Agreement shall come into full force and effect on the date which it is so approved. This Agreement shall continue in effect for two years and shall thereafter continue in effect from year to year so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the Board of Trustees of the Fund, or by the vote of a majority of the outstanding votes attributable to shares of the class of stock representing an interest in the Portfolio; and (ii) a majority of those Trustees who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
17. This Agreement may be terminated at any time without the payment of any penalty, by the Fund's Board of Trustees, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding votes attributable to shares of the class of stock representing an interest in the Portfolio on sixty (60) days written notice to the Adviser and Sub-Adviser, or by the Adviser, or by the Sub-Adviser, on sixty (60) days written notice to the other. This Agreement shall automatically terminate in the event of its assignment or in the event of the termination of the investment Advisery agreement between the Adviser and the Fund regarding the Adviser's management of the Portfolio.
18. This Agreement may be amended by either party only if such amendment is specifically approved by a majority of those Trustees who are not parties to this Agreement or interested
persons of any such party cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
19. The terms "assignment", "affiliated person" and "interested person", when used in this Agreement, shall have the respective meanings specified in the 1940 Act. The term "majority of the outstanding votes attributable to shares of the class" means the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the shares of such class present at a meeting if more than 50% of such shares are present or represented by proxy or (b) more than 50% of the votes attributable to the shares of such class.
20. This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with laws of the State of Delaware, and applicable provisions of the Advisers Act.
21. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed and delivered this Agreement as of the date first above written.
MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.
By: /s/David P. Marks ----------------- David P. Marks, President |
PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT CO., LLC
By: /s/Gregory Pai --------------- Title: Gregory Pai, Managing Director |
Exhibit (d)(18)
(MEMBERS LOGO)
CAPITAL ADVISORS
June 28, 2006
To: Board of Trustees of MEMBERS Mutual Funds
Re: Expense Reimbursement
Dear Trustees:
This letter is to confirm that MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., the investment advisor for MEMBERS Mutual Funds, contractually agrees to reimburse each fund's expenses other than its management, 12b-1 and service fees (excluding taxes, interest and extraordinary items) that exceed the following amounts:
FUND CLASS A CLASS B ---- ------- ------- Conservative Allocation 0.70% 1.45% Moderate Allocation 0.70% 1.45% Aggressive Allocation 0.70% 1.45% |
FUND CLASS Y ---- ------- Cash Reserves 0.55% Bond 0.65% High Income 0.75% Balanced n/a Large Cap Value 0.75% Large Cap Growth 0.95% Mid Cap Value 1.15% Mid Cap Growth 0.95% International Stock 1.35% |
Any reimbursements made by MEMBERS Capital Advisors to a fund are subject to repayment by the fund within the subsequent three years, to the extent that the fund can make the repayment while remaining within the fee structure described above.
MEMBERS Capital Advisors further agrees to this reimbursement until the effective date of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds' post effective amendment scheduled to be filed in February 2007.
Sincerely,
/s/ David P. Marks ----------------------------------------- David P. Marks President, MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. |
5910 Mineral Point Rd.
Madison,WI 53705-4456
608.232.6111
memberscapitaladvisors.com
Exhibit (e)(1)
AMENDED AND RESTATED
DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT
AMENDMENT #3
THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT is made and entered into this 30th day of November, 2006, by and between MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS, a statutory trust organized and existing under the laws of the state of Delaware (the "Trust"), and CUNA BROKERAGE SERVICES, INC. a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the State of Wisconsin (the "Distributor").
WHEREAS, the Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 ACT"), consisting of several investment portfolios (the "FUNDS");
WHEREAS, the Trust is registering its shares of beneficial interest for offer and sale to the public under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 ACT"), and in accordance with the provisions of all applicable state securities laws (the "BLUE SKY LAWS");
WHEREAS, each Fund is authorized to issue multiple classes of shares: Class A Shares, Class B Shares, Class D Shares, Class Y Shares and such other classes of shares as may hereafter be approved by the Trust (collectively, the "SHARES"), each of which represents interests in the same portfolio of investment securities;
WHEREAS, the Distributor is a broker-dealer registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "COMMISSION") under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 ACT") and is a member of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (the "NASD"); and
WHEREAS, the Trust has adopted two distribution plans pursuant to Section 12(b) of the 1940 Act, and Rule 12b-1 thereunder (the "12B-1 PLANS"), pursuant to which the Trust may pay the expenses for certain Distribution Activities and Service Activities (as defined in the 12b-1 Plans) incurred or paid by the Distributor.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants herein contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
I. APPOINTMENT AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE DISTRIBUTOR
The Trust hereby appoints the Distributor as its principle underwriter and exclusive agent to sell and distribute, as set forth below in Section II, the Shares of each Fund and of such other Funds as may hereafter be registered with the Commission and under the Blue Sky Laws, subject to the terms of this Agreement and the policies and control of the Trust's Board of Trustees (the "Board"). The Distributor hereby accepts such appointment.
II. DUTIES OF THE DISTRIBUTOR AND THE TRUST
A. The Trust employs the Distributor:
1. to promote the Funds;
2. to sell the Shares of each Fund on a best efforts basis from time to time during the term of this Agreement as agent for the Trust and upon the terms described in the currently effective registration statement of the Trust, and supplements thereto, under the 1933 Act and the 1940 Act (the "Registration Statement"). The Distributor shall sell, as agent for the Funds, the Shares needed, but not more than the Shares needed (except for clerical errors or errors of transmission), to fill unconditional orders placed with the Distributor;
3. to enter into agreements, at the Distributor's discretion, to sell Shares to registered and qualified retail broker-dealers. All such brokers and dealers shall act in accordance with the Registration Statement and shall comply with all applicable laws, rules and regulations;
4. in connection with the sales and offers of sale of Shares, to give only such information and make such representations as are permitted by applicable law. All sales literature and advertisements used by the Distributor in connection with the sale of the Shares shall be filed with the appropriate authorities, including the NASD, the states, and/or the Commission, as may be required from time to time.
5. to offer the Shares of each Fund at the public offering price which shall be the net asset value per Share as next determined by the Trust, plus applicable distribution charges, following receipt and acceptance by the Trust of a proper offer to purchase, determined in accordance with the Declaration of Trust and Registration Statement of the Funds. The Trust shall promptly furnish (or arrange for another person to furnish) the Distributor with a quotation of the public offering price on each business day; and
B. The Distributor shall not be obligated to sell any certain number of Shares.
C. The Trust agrees:
1. that it will not, without the Distributor's consent, sell or agree to sell any Shares of the Trust other than through the Distributor, except that the Trust may:
a. issue or sell Shares in connection with its merger or consolidation with any other investment company or the Trust's acquisition by purchase or otherwise of all or substantially all of the assets of any investment company or substantially all of the outstanding shares of any such company;
b. issue Shares to its shareholders for reinvestment of cash distribution from capital gains or net investment income of the Trust;
c. issue Shares to shareholders of a Fund who exercise any exchange privilege set forth in the Registration Statement;
d. issue Shares directly to registered shareholders pursuant to the authority of the Board; or
e. sell Shares in any jurisdiction in which the Distributor is not registered as a broker-dealer.
2. to permit the Distributor to use any list of shareholders of the Trust or an Fund or any other list of investors which it obtains in connection with its provision of services under this Agreement;
3. to keep the Distributor fully informed of its affairs and to make available to the Distributor copies of all information, financial statements, and other papers which the Distributor may reasonably request for use in connection with the distribution of Shares, including, without limitation, certified copies of any financial statements for the Trust by its independent public accountant and such reasonable number of copies of the most current prospectus, statement of additional information, and annual and interim reports of a Fund as the Distributor may request;
4. to cooperate fully in the efforts of the Distributor to sell and arrange for the sale of the Shares and in the performance of the Distributor under this Agreement; and
5. to register or cause to be registered all Shares sold by the Distributor pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement in such name or names and amounts as the Distributor may request from time to time.
D. The Trust reserves the right at any time to withdraw all offerings of the Shares of any or all Funds by written notice to the Distributor at its principal office.
III. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
A. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE DISTRIBUTOR. The Distributor hereby represents and warrants to the Trust as follows:
1. Organization. The Distributor is duly organized and is in good standing under the laws of the State of Wisconsin and is fully authorized to enter into this Agreement and carry out its terms.
2. Registration. The Distributor is a broker-dealer registered with the Commission under the 1934 Act, is a member of the NASD, and is registered or licensed under the laws of all jurisdictions in which its activities require it to be so registered or licensed. The Distributor shall maintain such registration or license in effect at all times during the term of this Agreement and will immediately notify the Trust of the occurrence of any event that would disqualify the Distributor from serving as a Distributor by operation of Section 9(a) of the 1940 Act or otherwise.
3. Best Efforts. The Distributor at all times shall provide its best judgment and effort to the Trust in carrying out its obligations hereunder.
4. Code of Ethics. The Distributor has adopted a written code of ethics that complies with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and will provide the Trust with a copy
of such code of ethics and all subsequent modifications, together with evidence of its adoption. At least annually the Distributor will provide the Trust with a report describing the implementation of the code of ethics during the immediately preceding twelve (12) month period.
B. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF THE TRUST. The Trust, on behalf of the Funds, hereby represents and warrants to the Distributor as follows:
1. Organization. The Trust is duly organized under the laws of the State of Delaware and is fully authorized to enter into this Agreement and carry out its terms.
2. Registration. The Trust is registered as an investment company with the Commission under the 1940 Act and Shares of the Trust will be registered for offer and sale to the public under the 1933 Act and under the Blue Sky Laws. Such registrations shall be kept in effect during the term of this Agreement.
IV. COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE REQUIREMENTS
A. In carrying out its obligations under this Agreement, the Distributor shall at all times conform to:
1. all applicable provisions of the 1934 Act and the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder and the rules of the NASD;
2. the provisions of the Registration Statement of the Trust as the same may be amended from time to time, under the 1933 Act and the 1940 Act;
3. the provisions of the Trust's Declaration of Trust, as amended; and
4. any other applicable provisions of state and federal law.
B. In carrying out its obligations under this Agreement, the Distributor agrees that:
1. The Distributor agrees to comply with the requirements of Section 326 of the USA PATRIOT Act of 2001 (the "PATRIOT Act") on behalf of the Trust using the Distributor's customer identification program for the customers of the Distributor for which it sells shares of the Trust.
2. The Distributor shall provide to the Trust a copy of its anti-money laundering compliance program, and maintain and enforce such program that includes policies, procedures and controls reasonably designed to ensure the Distributor's compliance with its responsibilities under all applicable laws, rules, requirements and regulations. The Distributor shall perform periodic audits to verify compliance with its anti-money laundering compliance program. Further, the Distributor will conduct anti-money laundering compliance training programs.
3. The Distributor agrees that it will abide by the applicable anti-money laundering procedures of the Trust.
4. The Distributor will provide an annual certification to the Board that the Distributor is operating in compliance with its anti-money laundering program, including its customer identification program, and the Trust's program, and all applicable laws, rules, requirements and regulations.
5. Upon request by the Trust's Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Officer ("AMLCO"), the Distributor will make available information relating to the identity and business of each broker-dealer firm that engages in the sales of shares of the Trust's mutual funds. The Distributor shall immediately notify the Board if it receives information that any broker-dealer firm is not in compliance with the PATRIOT Act.
6. In accordance with applicable law, rule or regulation, the Distributor hereby consents to permit examiners from the Commission to obtain information and records from the Distributor related to the Trust's anti-money laundering compliance program, and to inspect the Distributor for the purpose of examining the Trust's compliance with the PATRIOT Act, Bank Secrecy Act ("BSA") and applicable laws, rules, requirements and regulations.
7. Selling agreements between the Distributor and broker-dealer firms shall include provisions requiring each broker-dealer firm to: 1) comply with the PATRIOT Act and have an anti-money laundering compliance program; 2) confirm a customer's identity and the source of the funds involved in the purchase of shares of the mutual funds to the extent required by the PATRIOT Act and any laws, rules, requirements, regulations or regulatory guidance thereunder; and 3) report to the Trust's AMLCO, to the extent permitted by applicable law, including Section 314(b) of the PATRIOT Act, any suspicious activity involving the purchase of shares of the Trust.
8. Selling agreements between the Distributor and broker-dealer firms, as defined by Rule 22c-2, shall include: 1) A Shareholder Information Sharing Agreement to provide the Fund the taxpayer identification number ("TIN"), if known, of any or all Shareholder(s) of the account and the amount, date, name or other identifier of any investment professional(s) associated with the Shareholder(s) or account (if known), and transaction type (purchase, redemption, transfer, or exchange) of every purchase, redemption, transfer, or exchange of Shares held through an account maintained by the Intermediary; 2) an Agreement to Assess Redemption Fees on Shareholder transactions in accordance with the terms and conditions of the then-current Prospectus of the fund(s); 3) an Agreement to Restrict Trading or further purchases or exchanges of Shares or take such other action as requested by the Fund for a Shareholder that has been identified by the Fund as having engaged in transactions of the Fund's Shares.
C. In carrying out its obligations under this Agreement, the Distributor further agrees that:
1. The Distributor shall adopt and implement written policies and procedures reasonably designed to prevent violations of the Federal Securities Laws, as such term is defined in Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act.
V. COMPENSATION
As compensation for providing services under this Agreement, the Distributor shall receive from each class for which a 12b-1 Plan is in effect, of each Fund, a distribution and/or service fee at the rate and under the terms and conditions of the 12b-1 Plans, as such 12b-1 Plans are in effect from time to time, and subject to any further limitations on such fee as the Board of Trustees of the Trust may impose.
Additional payments to the Distributor from the Trust's investment adviser, MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc., or the Trust's administrator may be authorized in accordance with applicable law.
VI. EXPENSES
The expenses in connection with the distribution of the Funds shall be allocable as follows:
A. EXPENSES OF THE DISTRIBUTOR. The Distributor shall bear or pay:
1. the costs of printing and distributing prospectuses and statements of additional information for prospective investors and the costs of preparing, printing and distributing such other sales literature, reports, forms and advertisements in connection with the sale of the Shares as comply with the applicable provisions of federal and state law;
2. the costs of any additional copies of the Trust's financial and other reports and not other literature supplied to the Distributor for sales promotion purposes;
3. all advertising expenses incurred by the Distributor in connection with the offering and sales of the Shares;
4. all compensation to the employees of the Distributor and others for selling shares, and all expenses of the Distributor and others who engage in or support the sale of shares as may be incurred in connection with their sales efforts;
5. expenses relating to the formulation and implementation of marketing strategies and promotional activities such as direct mail promotions and television, radio, newspaper, magazine and other mass media advertising; and
6. the costs of building and maintaining a database of prospective shareholders and of obtaining such analyses, reports and other information with respect to marketing and promotional activities and investor accounts as the Trust may deem advisable.
B. EXPENSES OF THE TRUST
Each Fund, or class thereof, shall bear all expenses in connection with preparing and typesetting the Trust's prospectuses, statements of additional information, reports to shareholders, and other materials, related to communications of such class or Fund with existing shareholders.
VII. REPORTS
The Distributor shall prepare reports for the Board on a quarterly basis showing such information concerning services provided and expenses incurred related to this Agreement, and such other information, as from time to time may be reasonably requested by the Board.
VIII. INDEMNIFICATION BY THE TRUST
The Trust agrees to indemnify, defend and hold the Distributor, each person who
has been, is, or may hereafter be an officer, director, employee or agent of the
Distributor, and any person who controls the Distributor within the meaning of
Section 15 of the 1933 Act, free and harmless against any loss, damage or
expense reasonably incurred by any of them in connection with any claim or in
connection with any action, suit, or proceeding to which any of them may be a
party, which arises out of or is alleged to arise out of or is based upon a
violation of any of its covenants herein contained, or any alleged untrue
statement of a material fact, or the alleged omission to state a material fact
necessary to make the statements made not misleading, in the Registration
Statement or prospectus of the Trust, or any amendment or supplement thereto,
unless such statement or omission was made in reliance upon written information
furnished by the Distributor. The foregoing rights of indemnification shall be
in addition to any other rights to which any of the foregoing indemnified
parties may be entitled as a matter of law. Nothing contained herein shall
relieve the Distributor of any liability to the Trust or its shareholders to
which the Distributor would otherwise be subject by reason of willful
misfeasance, bad faith, or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or
reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
IX. INDEMNIFICATION BY THE DISTRIBUTOR
The Distributor agrees to indemnify, defend and hold the Trust, each person who has been, is, or may hereafter be an officer, director, employee or agent of the Trust, and any person who controls the Trust within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act, free and harmless against any loss, damage or expense reasonably incurred by any of them in connection with any claim or in connection with any action, suit, or proceeding to which any of them may be a party, which arises out of or is alleged to arise out of or is based upon a violation of any of its covenants herein contained, or any alleged untrue statement of a material fact, or the alleged omission to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made not misleading, on the part of the Distributor or any agent or employee of the Distributor or any other person for whose acts the Distributor is responsible or is alleged to be responsible (such as any selected dealer or person through whom sales are made pursuant to an agreement with the Distributor), whether made orally or in writing, unless such statement or omission was made in reliance upon written information furnished by the Trust. The foregoing rights of indemnification shall be in addition to any other rights to which any of the foregoing indemnified parties may be entitled as a matter of law.
X. REPURCHASE OF SHARES
The Trust appoints and designates the Distributor as agent of the Trust, and the Distributor accepts such appointment as such agent, to repurchase shares of the Trust in accordance with the provisions of the Declaration of Trust.
In connection with such redemptions or repurchases, the Trust authorizes and designates the Distributor to take any action, to make any adjustments in net asset value, and to make any arrangements for the payment of the redemption or repurchase price authorized or permitted to be taken or made in accordance with the 1940 Act and as set forth in the current prospectus of the Trust.
The authority of the Distributor under this section may, with the consent of the Trust, be re-delegated in whole or in part to another person or firm.
The authority granted in this section may be suspended by the Trust at any time, or from time to time, until further notice to the Distributor. After any such suspension the authority granted to the Distributor by this section will be reinstated only by a written instrument executed by an officer of the Trust.
XI. DISTRIBUTOR IS INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR
The Distributor is an independent contractor and shall be the agent for the Trust only with respect to the sale and redemption of Shares. The Distributor is responsible for its own conduct, for the employment, control and conduct of its agent and employees and for injury to such agents or employees or to others through its agents or employees. The Distributor assumes full responsibility for its agents and employees under applicable laws and agrees to pay all employer taxes relating thereto.
XII. NON-EXCLUSIVITY
The services of the Distributor to the Trust under this Agreement are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Distributor shall be free to render similar services to others (including other investment companies) so long as its services to the Trust are not impaired thereby. It is understood and agreed that officers and directors of the Distributor may serve as officers or directors of the Trust, and that officers or directors of the Trust may serve as officers or directors of the Distributor to the extent permitted by law. The officers and directors of the Distributor are not prohibited from engaging in any other business activity or from rendering services to any other person, or from serving as partners, officers, directors or trustees of any other firm, fund or trust, including other investment companies.
XIII. TERM
This Agreement shall become effective as of the later of: (i) the date on which a Registration Statement becomes effective under the 1933 Act; and (ii) the date on which this Agreement is executed, provided this Agreement is approved by the vote of a majority of the Board and by the vote of a majority of those members of the Board who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party, and who have no direct or indirect interest in the operation of any 12b-1 Plan or this Agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such renewal.
Unless terminated as herein provided, this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect for one year from the date of execution of this Agreement and shall continue in effect from year to year thereafter, only so long as such continuance is approved at least annually:
1. by the vote of a majority of those Trustees of the Trust who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party, and who have no direct or indirect interest in the operation of any 12b-1 Plan or this Agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such renewal; and
2. by either the Board of the Trust or the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust.
XIV. TERMINATION
This Agreement may be terminated as to any class of any Fund at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by the vote of a majority of the Trustees of the Trust who are not interested persons of the Trust and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of any 12b-1 Plan or this Agreement, or by the vote of a majority of the outstanding votes attributable to that class of shares of the Fund, on sixty (60) days' written notice to the Distributor, or by the Distributor at any time without the payment of any penalty, on sixty (60) days written notice to the Trust.
XV. ASSIGNMENT
This Distribution Agreement may not be assigned by the Distributor and will automatically and immediately terminate in the event of its assignment.
XVI. AMENDMENTS
This Agreement may be amended at any time or from time to time by an instrument in writing, signed by a duly authorized officer of the Trust and by the Distributor, but no amendment to this Agreement shall be effective until such amendment is approved:
1. by the vote of a majority of those Trustees of the Trust who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of any 12b-1 Plan or this Agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval; and
2. by the vote of a majority of the Board of Trustees of the Trust; provided, however, that amendments relating to any 12b-1 Plan shall not require the consent of the Distributor.
XVII. GOVERNING LAW
This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to conflicts of law principles; provided, however, that nothing herein shall be construed as being inconsistent with the 1940 Act.
XVIII. DEFINITIONS
The terms "assignment," "affiliated person," and "interested person," when used in this Agreement, shall have the respective meanings specified in the 1940 Act. The term "majority of the outstanding votes" attributable to the shares of a Fund means the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the votes attributable to such Fund present at a meeting if the holders of more than 50% of such votes are present or represented by proxy, or (b) more than 50% of the votes attributable to shares of the Fund.
XIX. NOTICE
Any notice, advice or report to be given pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed sufficient if delivered by hand, transmitted by electronic facsimile, or mailed by registered, certified or overnight United States mail, postage prepaid, or sent by overnight delivery with a recognized
courier, addressed by the party giving notice to the other party at the last address furnished by the other party:
To the Distributor at: CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc.
2000 Heritage Way Waverly, Iowa 50677 To the Trust at: President, MEMBERS Mutual Funds c/o MEMBERS Capital Advisors Inc. 5910 Mineral Point Road Madison, Wisconsin 53705 |
Each such notice, advice or report shall be effective upon receipt or three days after mailing, whichever is first.
XX. SEVERABILITY
If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby.
XXI. ENTIRE AGREEMENT
This Agreement embodies the entire agreement and understanding between the parties hereto, and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings relating to this Agreement's subject matter. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but such counterparts shall, together, constitute only one instrument.
XXII. 1940 ACT
Where the effect of a requirement of the 1940 Act reflected in any provision of this Agreement is altered by a rule, regulation or order of the Commission, whether of special or general application, such provision shall be deemed to incorporate the effect of such rule, regulation or order.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed by their duly authorized officers as of the day and year first written above.
CUNA BROKERAGE SERVICES, INC.
Attest: /s/ Tonnie Lemon By: /s/ Mark E. Backes ----------------------------- ------------------------------------ Mark E. Backes, President MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS Attest: /s/ Diane Fisher By: /s/ David P. Marks ----------------------------- ------------------------------------ David P. Marks, President |
Exhibit (l)(6)
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS, a statutory trust organized under the laws of the State of Delaware (the "Trust"), and CUNA MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY ("CUNA MUTUAL"), an insurance company organized under the laws of the State of Wisconsin, agree as follows:
1. OFFER AND PURCHASE.
The Trust offers to CUNA Mutual, and CUNA Mutual agrees to purchase 10 Class A shares (the "Shares") of each of the Aggressive Allocation Portfolio, Moderate Allocation Portfolio and Conservative Allocation Portfolio, each a series of the Trust. CUNA Mutual acknowledges receipt from the Trust of the Shares and the Trust acknowledges receipt from CUNA Mutual of an aggregate of $300.00 in full payment for the Shares.
2. REPRESENTATION BY CUNA MUTUAL.
CUNA Mutual represents and warrants to the Trust that the Shares are being acquired for investment purposes and not with a view to resale or further distribution.
3. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY.
The Trust and CUNA Mutual agree that the obligations of the Trust under this Agreement will not be binding upon any of the Trustees, shareholders, nominees, officers, employees or agents, whether past, present or future, of the Trust, individually, but are binding only upon the assets and property of the Trust. The execution and delivery of this Agreement has been authorized by the Trustees of the Trust, and signed by an authorized officer of the Trust, acting as such, and neither the authorization by the Trustees nor the execution and delivery by the officer will be deemed to have been made by any of them individually or to impose any liability on any of them personally, but will bind only the trust property of the Trust. No series of the Trust will be liable for any claims against any other series.
4. NO RIGHT OF ASSIGNMENT.
CUNA Mutual's right under this Agreement to purchase the Shares is not assignable.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties to this Agreement have executed this Agreement as of the 16 day of June, 2006.
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
By: /s/ David P. Marks ------------------------------------ Name: David P. Marks Title: President |
CUNA MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY
By: /s/ Jeffrey D. Holley ------------------------------------ Name: Jeffrey D. Holley Title: Executive Vice President and CFO |
Exhibit (l)(7)
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS, a statutory trust organized under the laws of the State of Delaware (the "Trust"), and CUNA MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY ("CUNA MUTUAL"), an insurance company organized under the laws of the State of Wisconsin, agree as follows:
1. OFFER AND PURCHASE.
The Trust offers to CUNA Mutual, and CUNA Mutual agrees to purchase 500,000 Shares ($10 per share) of each of the Small Cap Value Fund and Small Cap Growth Fund, each a series of the Trust, to be allocated among any and all of the share classes in existence.
CUNA Mutual acknowledges receipt from the Trust of the Shares and the Trust acknowledges receipt from CUNA Mutual of an aggregate of $5,000,000 in full payment for the Shares.
2. REPRESENTATION BY CUNA MUTUAL.
CUNA Mutual represents and warrants to the Trust that the Shares are being acquired for investment purposes and not with a view to resale or further distribution.
3. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY.
The Trust and CUNA Mutual agree that the obligations of the Trust under this Agreement will not be binding upon any of the Trustees, shareholders, nominees, officers, employees or agents, whether past, present or future, of the Trust, individually, but are binding only upon the assets and property of the Trust. The execution and delivery of this Agreement has been authorized by the Trustees of the Trust, and signed by an authorized officer of the Trust, acting as such, and neither the authorization by the Trustees nor the execution and delivery by the officer will be deemed to have been made by any of them individually or to impose any liability on any of them personally, but will bind only the trust property of the Trust. No series of the Trust will be liable for any claims against any other series.
4. NO RIGHT OF ASSIGNMENT.
CUNA Mutual's right under this Agreement to purchase the Shares is not assignable.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties to this Agreement have executed this Agreement as of the 30 day of November, 2006.
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS CUNA MUTUAL LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY By: /s/ David P. Marks By: /s/ Jeffrey D. Holley --------------------------------- ------------------------------------ Name: David P. Marks Name: Jeffrey D. Holley Title: President Title: Executive Vice President & CFO |
Exhibit (m)(10)
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
SUPPLEMENT NO. 3
SERVICE PLAN
CLASS A SHARES
A. MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS (the "TRUST") is a diversified, open-end management investment company registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 ACT").
B. Paragraph B of the Service Plan (the "Plan") states that the Plan shall also apply to the Class A Shares of any other Fund as shall be designated from time to time by the board of trustees of the Trust (the "Board") in any supplement to the Plan.
C. At its May 26, 2006 meeting, the Board approved supplementing the Plan to include the Conservative Allocation Fund, Moderate Allocation Fund and Aggressive Allocation Fund as part of the Plan.
D. At its November 30, 2006 meeting, the Board approved supplementing the Plan to include the Small Cap Value Fund and Small Cap Growth Fund as part of the Plan.
E. The Plan is hereby supplemented to include Conservative Allocation Fund, Moderate Allocation Fund, Aggressive Allocation Fund, Small Cap Value Fund and Small Cap Growth as part of the Plan.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, MEMBERS Mutual Funds has adopted this Supplement to the Service Plan as of November 30, 2006.
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
By: /s/ David P. Marks ------------------------------------ David P. Marks President |
Exhibit (m)(11)
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
SUPPLEMENT NO. 3
DISTRIBUTION PLAN
CLASS B SHARES
A. MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS (the "TRUST") is a diversified, open-end management investment company registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 ACT").
B. Paragraph B of the Distribution Plan (the "Plan") states that the Plan shall also apply to the Class B Shares of any other Fund as shall be designated from time to time by the board of trustees of the Trust (the "Board") in any supplement to the Plan.
C. At its May 26, 2006 meeting, the Board approved supplementing the Plan to include the Conservative Allocation Fund, Moderate Allocation Fund and Aggressive Allocation Fund as part of the Plan.
D. At its November 30, 2006 meeting, the Board approved supplementing the Plan to include the Small Cap Value Fund and Small Cap Growth Fund as part of the Plan.
E. The Plan is hereby supplemented to include Conservative Allocation Fund, Moderate Allocation Fund, Aggressive Allocation Fund, Small Cap Value Fund and Small Cap Growth as part of the Plan.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, MEMBERS Mutual Funds has adopted this Supplement to the Distribution Plan as of November 30, 2006.
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
By: /s/ David P. Marks ------------------------------------ David P. Marks President |
Exhibit (n)(3)
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
AMENDED PLAN FOR MULTIPLE CLASSES OF SHARES
AS APPROVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES ON NOVEMBER 30, 2006
AMENDMENT # 4
A. MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS (the "TRUST") is an open-end management investment company registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "ACT"). The Trust is organized as a business trust pursuant to the laws of the state of Delaware.
B. The Fund's Declaration of Trust authorizes the Trust to issue multiple series
of shares of beneficial interest, each of which represents a fractional
undivided interest in a separate investment portfolio (a "FUND"). The
Declaration of Trust also authorizes the Trust to divide each series of shares
into multiple classes. The Trust hereby establishes four classes of shares:
Class A, Class B, Class D, and Class Y. As described in more detail below: Class
A shares are subject to a front-end sales charge, an asset-based shareholder
service fee, and on purchases of over $1,000,000, a contingent deferred sales
charge ("CDSC"); Class B shares are subject to an asset-based distribution fee,
an asset-based shareholder service fee (except for money market funds), and a
CDSC; Class D shares are subject only to an asset-based shareholder service fee
(except for money market funds); and Class Y shares are not subject to any of
the above mentioned fees.
C. This Amended Plan for Multiple Classes of Shares (the "PLAN") is a plan as contemplated by Rule 18f-3(d) under the Act.
D. The Board of Trustees of the Trust, including a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust (as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Act), have approved and adopted the Plan for each Fund and determined that the Plan is or will be: (i) in the best interests of the holders of Class A shares of each series; (ii) in the best interests of holders of Class B shares of each series; (iii) in the best interest of the Class D shares of each series; (iv) in the best interests of the Class Y shares of each series; and (v) in the best interests of the interests of the Trust as a whole.
E. The Plan will remain in effect until such time as the Board of Trustees terminates the Plan or makes a material change to the Plan. Any material change to the Plan must be approved by the Board of Trustees, including a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust, as being in the best interests of each series and class of shares to which such change would apply and the Trust as a whole
SECTION I CLASS DISTRIBUTION FEES AND SHAREHOLDER SERVICES
1.1 CLASS A SHARES. Class A shares are sold through CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. ("CBSI"), or other registered broker-dealers authorized by CBSI, charge a front-end sales charge or load calculated as a percentage of the offering price at the time of purchase. The following table indicates the charge:
CASH RESERVES FUND BALANCED FUND LARGE CAP VALUE FUND LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND MID CAP VALUE FUND MID CAP GROWTH FUND SMALL CAP VALUE FUND SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND INTERNATIONAL STOCK FUND CONSERVATIVE ALLOCATION FUND MODERATE ALLOCATION FUND BOND FUND HIGH PURCHASE PAYMENT AGGRESSIVE ALLOCATION FUND INCOME FUND ---------------- ---------------------------- -------------- (As a % of Offering Price) Under $25,000 5.75% 4.50% $25,000-49,999 5.0% 4.50% $50,000 to $99,999 4.50% 4.00% $100,000-$249,999 3.50% 3.50% $250,000 to $499,999 2.50% 2.50% $500,000 to $999,999 1.50% 1.50% $1,000,000 and over(1) None None |
(1) There is a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) assessed on purchases of Class A shares of over $1,000,000. The CDSC will be calculated as described below relating to the CDSC for Class B shares, except at a rate of 1% in the first year and 0.5% in the second year following the purchase.
Class A shares also support an asset-based shareholder service fee equal to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of each Fund other than the Cash Reserves Fund attributable to Class A shares on an annual basis (This charge is more fully described in the distribution plan adopted by the Board of Trustees pursuant to Rule 12b-l under the Act).
Class A shares may be purchased without front-end sales charges by the following individuals and institutions:
- Credit union employees and their immediate family, when purchasing shares for their own personal accounts.
- Registered representatives of broker/dealers and registered investment advisors authorized to sell the funds when purchasing shares for their own account or for the benefit of their immediate family.
- Individuals and their immediate family who within the past twelve months were trustees, directors, officers, or employees of the CUNA Mutual Group or any of its affiliated companies, or any trust, pension, profit sharing or other benefit plan which beneficially owns shares for those persons, provided the purchase is made directly by mail, internet or telephone without the consultation of a registered representative. If the purchase is made through a registered representative, sales charges as described in this prospectus may apply.
- Individuals and their immediate family who within the past twelve months were trustees or employees of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds and Ultra Series Fund Boards of Trustees; or any trust, pension, profit sharing or other benefit plan which beneficially owns shares for those persons.
- Individuals and their immediate family who are trustees, directors, officers or employees of the adviser, subadviser, or service providers of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
- Credit union system-affiliated institutional investors and other non-profit organizations as described in section 501(c)(3) of the internal revenue code.
- Certain qualified defined benefit or qualified defined contribution pension plans, including 401(k) plans, with over $250,000 of assets.
Class A shares may be purchased without front-end sales charges in the following transactions:
- In fee-based accounts under an agreement with the distributor or investment adviser of MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
- With proceeds from the liquidation of a CUNA Mutual-affiliated pension product. (For employees of CUNA Mutual Group or any of its affiliated companies the sales charge waiver applies provided the purchase is made directly by mail, internet or telephone without the consultation of a registered representative. If the purchase is made through a registered representative, sales charge as described in this prospectus may apply.
- In Retirement Health Care Funding Program accounts (FAS 106) and Employee Option Plan accounts administered by CUNA Mutual Group.
- Reinvestment of dividends or capital gains from one of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds.
- By exchange from one MEMBERS Mutual Fund to another.
- Pursuant to the funds' reinstatement or reinvestment privilege (see the SAI for more information).
- From the proceeds of shares of another MEMBERS Mutual Funds account on which a load was already paid.
There are several ways investors and certain qualified pension plans may combine multiple purchases to reduce Class A sales charges:
RIGHTS OF COMBINATION. Purchases may be combined to reduce Class A sales charges if made by:
- you and your immediate family for your own account(s), including individual retirement, custodial and personal trust accounts;
- a trustee or other fiduciary purchasing for a single trust, estate or fiduciary account; and
- groups which qualify for the Group Investment Program as described in the SAI.
RIGHTS OF ACCUMULATION. You may add the current market value of your existing holdings in any fund and class of shares of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds (including combinations), to the amount of your next purchase of Class A shares to qualify for reduced sales charges. The current value of existing investments in your MEMBERS variable annuity contract may also be taken into account to determine your Class A sales charges.
LETTER OF INTENT. You may purchase Class A shares of a fund over a 13-month period and receive the same sales charge as if all shares had been purchased at once by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI).
1.2 CLASS B Shares. Class B shares are sold through CBSI, or other registered broker-dealers authorized by CBSI, at their net asset value without the imposition of a sales charges at
the time of purchase, but are subject to a CDSC at the time of redemption (as explained in more detail below). Class B shares also support: (1) an asset-based distribution fee (as provided for by a distribution plan adopted by the Board of Trustees pursuant to Rule 12b-l under the Act) equal to 0.75% of the average daily net assets of the Trust attributable to Class B shares on an annual basis, and (2) an asset-based shareholder service fee equal to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Trust attributable to Class B shares on an annual basis. The imposition of the CDSC and asset-based fees must, however, remain consistent with the requirements of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD")'s Conduct Rules.
At redemption, the amount of a CDSC, if any, charged to a holder of Class B shares depends upon the number of months or years that have elapsed since the holder purchased the shares. The amount of the CDSC is determined by multiplying the CDSC percentage charge shown in the following table by the lesser of: (1) the net asset value of the redeemed shares at the time of purchase, or (2) the net asset value of the redeemed shares at the time of redemption. The CDSC is deducted from the redemption proceeds otherwise payable to the shareholder.
Purchase Date on or after February 28, 2003
Years After Purchase 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 -------------------- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---- CDSC 4.5% 4.0% 3.5% 3.0% 2.0% 1.0% None |
Purchase Date before February 28, 2003
Years After Purchase 1 2 3 4 5 6 -------------------- --- --- --- --- --- ---- CDSC 4.5% 4.0% 3.5% 3.0% 2.0% None |
For purposes of this CDSC, all purchases made during a calendar month are counted as having been made on the first day of that month.
In determining whether a CDSC is payable, the Trust will comply with the provisions of Rule 6c-10 under the Act as currently adopted. Under Rule 6c-10, no CDSC is imposed with respect to: (I) the portion of redemption proceeds attributable to the increase in the value of an account above the net cost of the investment due to increases in the net asset value per share of Class B shares; (2) shares of Class B shares acquired through reinvestment of income dividends or capital gain distributions; or (3) shares of Class B shares held for more than five years after purchase for shares purchased before February 28, 2003; or (4) shares of Class B shares held for more than six years after purchase for shares purchased on or after February 28, 2003.
1.3 CLASS D SHARES. Class D shares are sold directly to investors without imposition of a sales charge at the time of purchase. Class D shares also support an asset-based shareholder service fee equal to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of each Fund other than the Cash Reserves Fund attributable to Class D shares on an annual basis (This charge is more fully described in the distribution plan adopted by the Board of Trustees pursuant to Rule 12b-l under the Act.)
1.4 CLASS Y SHARES. Class Y shares are sold with the imposition of a sales charge and do not support an asset-based shareholder service fee. Class Y shares are only available for purchase by the MEMBERS Asset Allocation Funds, investors utilizing fund shares in fee-based
managed accounts with CBSI or another broker-dealer (wrap fee investors), and to other investors as the Board of Trustees may from time to time authorize.
1.5 OVERALL LIMITS. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the aggregate amounts of any front-end sales charge, any asset-based distribution plan fee and any CDSC imposed by the Trust must comply with the requirements of Section 2830 of the NASD Conduct Rules, as amended from time to time, and any other rules or regulations promulgated by the NASD applicable to mutual fund distribution and service fees.
SECTION II ALLOCATION OF EXPENSES
2.1 CLASS DISTINCTIONS. Class A shares, Class B shares, Class D shares, and
Class Y shares each represent interests in the same series of the Trust. All
classes of shares are identical in all respects except that: (1) Class B shares
may be subject to a distinct distribution fee (as described above); (2) each
class will bear different Class Expenses (as defined below); (3) each class will
have exclusive voting rights with respect to matters that exclusively affect
that class (such as approval of any distribution plan for Class B shares); and
(4) each class will bear a different name or designation.
2.2 CLASS EXPENSES. The Fund's Board of Trustees, acting in its sole
discretion, has determined that those expenses attributable to the shares of a
particular class ("CLASS EXPENSES") will be borne solely by the class to which
they are attributable. For example, the asset-based distribution plan fees and
the asset-based shareholder service fees of Class B shares are Class Expenses of
Class B shares. Class Expenses also include the following as they each relate to
a particular class of shares: (1) transfer agency fees; (2) expenses related to
preparing, printing, mailing and distributing materials such as shareholder
reports, prospectuses and proxy statements to current shareholders; (3) state
and federal registration fees; (4) extraordinary expenses such as litigation
expenses; (5) trustees' fees and expenses incurred as a result of issues
relating solely to a particular class; (6) accounting, audit and tax expenses;
(7) the expenses of administrative personnel and services required to support
the shareholders; and (8) fees and other payments made to entities performing
services, including account maintenance, dividend, disbursing or subaccounting
services or administration of a dividend reinvestment or systematic investment
or withdrawal plan. However, to the extent that allocation of expenses to a
particular share class is not practical or would not significantly differ from a
pro-rata allocation, such expenses will be allocated as provided in Section 3.1.
SECTION III ALLOCATION OF TRUST INCOME AND EXPENSES
3.1 ALLOCATION OF INCOME AND EXPENSES. All income earned and expenses incurred by the Trust and not allocable to a particular share class are borne on a pro-rata basis by each outstanding share of each class based on the value of the net assets of the Trust attributable to that class as represented by the daily net asset value of shares of that class. On a daily basis, the total interest, dividends or other income accrued and common expenses incurred are multiplied by the ratio of the Fund's net assets attributable to each class to determine the income and expenses attributable to that class for the day. Expenses properly attributable to each class are
recorded separately and charged to that class, Net income for each class is then determined for the day and segregated on the Fund's general ledger. Because of the distribution fee and other Class Expenses borne by Class B shares, the net income attributable to and the dividends payable on Class B shares are anticipated to be lower (although it may be higher) than that of the Class A shares, Class D shares, or Class Y shares. Dividends, however, are declared and paid on all classes of shares on the same days and at the same times.
SECTION IV CONVERSIONS
4.1 CONVERSIONS. Class B shares contain a conversion feature. On the Conversion Date occurring after the 85th month of the issuance of a share of Class B shares for purchases before February 28, 2003, and the 97th month of issuance for purchases on or after February 28, 2003, the share automatically converts into a Class A share on the basis of the relative net asset values of the two Classes, without the imposition of any sales charge, fee, or other charge upon the conversion. After conversion, the converted shares are not subject to any Class B distribution plan fees or CDSC.
All Class B shares in a shareholder's account that are purchased through the reinvestment of dividends and other distributions paid with respect to Class B shares (and which have not converted to Class A shares) are considered to be held in a separate subaccount. Each time any Class B shares in the shareholder's account are converted to Class A shares, a pro-rata portion of the Class B shares then in the subaccount are also converted to Class A shares. The portion converting is determined by the ratio that the shareholder's Class B shares converting to Class A shares bears to the shareholder's total Class B shares not acquired through dividends and distributions.
SECTION V REDEMPTIONS
5.1 REDEMPTIONS. Redemption requests placed by investors holding shares of Class B as well as either Class A, Class D, or Class Y are satisfied first by redeeming the holder's Class A, Class D, or Class Y shares, unless the holder has made a specific election to redeem Class B shares. Class B shares will be redeemed with the most aged shares being redeemed first.
SECTION VI AMENDMENTS
6.1 AMENDMENTS. This Plan may not be amended to change any material provision unless such amendment is approved by the vote of the majority of the Board of Trustees, including a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust, based on their finding that the amendment is in the best interests of each class individually and the Trust as a whole.
SECTION VII RECORDKEEPING
7.1 RECORDKEEPING. The Trust shall preserve copies of this Plan and any related agreements for a period of not less than six years from the date of this Plan or agreement, the first two years in an easily accessible place.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Trust has executed this Amended Plan for Multiple Classes of Shares on the day and year set forth below.
Dated: December 4, 2006
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS
By: /s/ David P. Marks ------------------------------------ David P. Marks, President Attest: /s/ Diane M. Fisher ------------------------------------- |
Exhibit (p)(1)
MEMBERS CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.,
MEMBERS MUTUAL FUNDS, AND THE
ULTRA SERIES FUNDS
CODE OF ETHICS AND STATEMENT ON INSIDER TRADING
(AS AMENDED AUGUST 30, 2006)
I. DEFINITIONS
A. FIRM OR MCA. The term "Firm" or "MCA" shall mean MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc.
B. TRUST. The term "Trust" shall mean the Declaration of Trust of MEMBERS Mutual Funds and the Declaration of Trust of the Ultra Series Fund, including any series of shares of beneficial interest of the Trust (each, a "Fund").
C. CUNA MUTUAL GROUP. The term CUNA Mutual Group means CUNA Mutual Life Insurance Co., CUNA Mutual Insurance Society, and their affiliates.
D. EMPLOYEE. The term "Employee" shall include any person employed by the MCA, whether on a full or part-time basis and all officers and directors of MCA.
E. ACCESS PERSON. The term "Access Person" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 17j-1(a)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and rules thereunder (the "Act") and Section 204A-1(e)(1) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (the "Advisers Act"). Accordingly, Access Person means any director, officer, general partner, or Advisory Person (as defined below) of the Fund or MCA.
F. ADVISORY PERSON. The term "Advisory Person" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 17j-1(a)(2) of the Act. Accordingly, Advisory Person means any Employee of MCA, who, in connection with his or her regular functions or duties, makes, participates in, or obtains information regarding the purchase or sale of Covered Securities (as defined below) by a Client (as defined below), or whose functions relate to the making of any recommendations with respect to purchases and sales.
G. NON-INTERESTED DIRECTOR. The term "Non-interested director" means a Fund director who is not affiliated with MCA, is not an officer of the Trust or five percent shareholder of any Fund, and is not otherwise an "interested person" of the Trust as defined in the Section 2(a)(19) of the Act or the rules thereunder.
H. PERSONS SUBJECT TO THIS CODE. Each Employee is subject to this Code. In addition, the Chief Compliance Officer of MCA shall identify other persons employed by CUNA Mutual Group that may as a part of his or her regular functions or duties be defined as an Access Person or an Advisory Person. Such persons will be notified by the Chief Compliance Officer of MCA of their obligations and duties under this Code.
I. COVERED SECURITY. The term "Covered Security" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2(a)(36) of the Act(1), including any right to acquire such security, except that it shall not include securities which are direct obligations of the Government of the United States, bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper, high quality short-term debt instruments (including repurchase agreements), and shares issued by open-end investment companies other than Reportable Funds (defined below).
J. REPORTABLE FUND. The term "Reportable Fund" shall have the meaning set forth in Section 204A-1(e)(9) of the Advisers Act. Reportable Fund means any investment company registered under the Act that is advised or sub-advised or distributed by the Firm or any affiliated company(2). Reportable Funds include, for example, interests in the MEMBERS Mutual Funds and Ultra Series Funds through 401K group annuity and variable annuities.
K. LIMITED OFFERING. "Limited offering" means an offering that is exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 pursuant to Section 4(2) or Section 4(6) or pursuant to Rules 504, 505, or 506 under such Act. Limited offerings are also known as private placements.
L. AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN. The term "automatic investment plan" means a program in which regular periodic purchases or withdrawals are made automatically in, or from, investment accounts in accordance with a predetermined schedule and allocation. An automatic investment plan includes a dividend reinvestment plan.
(2) Reportable Funds that are money market funds are not subject to the Code's reporting requirements or holding periods (see Section II.D - Procedures to Implement Trading Restrictions and Reporting Obligations).
M. BENEFICIAL INTEREST OR OWNERSHIP. The term "beneficial interest or ownership" shall be interpreted in the same manner as it would be under Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 in determining whether a person is subject to the provisions of Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and rules thereunder, which includes any interest in which a person, directly or indirectly, has or shares a direct or indirect pecuniary interest. A pecuniary interest is the opportunity, directly or indirectly, to profit or share in any profit derived from any transaction. Each person will be assumed to have a pecuniary interest, and therefore, beneficial interest or ownership, in all securities held by that person, that person's spouse, all members of that person's immediate family and adults sharing the same household with that person (other than mere roommates) and all minor children of that person and in all accounts subject to their direct or indirect influence or control and/or through which they obtain the substantial equivalent of ownership, such as trusts in which they are a trustee or beneficiary, partnerships in which they are the general partner, corporations in which they are a controlling shareholder or any other similar arrangement. Any questions an Employee may have about whether an interest in a security or an account constitutes beneficial interest or ownership should be directed to the Firm's Legal Counsel or Chief Compliance Officer. Examples of beneficial interest or ownership are attached as Appendix A.
N. CLIENT. The term "Client" shall mean any client of MCA, including any Fund.
O. CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER. The Chief Compliance Officer is the designated Chief Compliance Officer under Rule 206(4)-7 under the Advisers Act.
II. CODE OF ETHICS
A. GENERAL STATEMENT
MCA seeks to foster a reputation for integrity and professionalism. Our reputation is a vital business asset. The confidence and trust placed in us by investors in mutual funds and clients with accounts advised by the Firm is something that is highly valued and must be protected. The Firm owes a fiduciary duty to its advisory clients, and the fundamental principle of the Firm is that at all times the interests of its Clients come first.
The Investment Company Act and rules make it illegal for any person covered by the Code, directly or indirectly, in connection with the purchase or sale of a security held or to be acquired by the Trust to:
1. employ any device, scheme, or artifice to defraud the Trust;
2. make any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of circumstances under which they are made, not misleading or in any way mislead the Trust regarding a material fact;
3. engage in any act, practice, or course of business which operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit upon the Trust; or
4. engage in any manipulative practice with respect to the Trust.
The restrictions on personal securities transactions contained in this Code are intended to help the Firm monitor for compliance with these prohibitions.
Additionally, the federal securities laws require that an investment adviser maintain a record of every transaction in any Covered Security and Reportable Fund in which an Access Person acquires any direct or indirect beneficial interest or ownership, except any transaction in an account in which the Access Person has no direct or indirect control or influence.
To attempt to ensure that each Person Subject to this Code satisfies this Code and these record keeping obligations, the Firm has developed the following rules relating to personal securities trading, outside employment, personal investments with external investment managers and confidentiality.
The Chief Compliance Officer has the authority to grant written waivers of the provisions of this Code in appropriate instances. However, the Firm expects that waivers will be granted only in rare instances and some provisions of the Code that are mandated by the Act or the Advisers Act cannot be waived.
The Firm expects all Access Persons to comply with the spirit of the Code as well as the specific rules contained in the Code.
Any violations of the Code must be reported promptly to the Firm's Chief Compliance Officer.
B. COMPLIANCE WITH FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS
More generally, Employees and Access Persons are required to comply with applicable federal securities laws at all times. Examples of applicable federal securities laws include:
1. the Securities Act of 1933, Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and SEC rules thereunder;
2. the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and SEC rules thereunder;
3. the Investment Company Act of 1940 and SEC rules thereunder;
4. Title V of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 (privacy and security of client nonpublic information); and,
5. the Bank Secrecy Act, as it applies to mutual funds and investment advisers, and SEC and Department of the Treasury rules thereunder.
C. RESTRICTIONS ON TRADING
No trading activity by an Access Person in any security in which an Access Person has any beneficial interest or ownership which is also the subject of a Client portfolio purchase or sale shall disadvantage or appear to disadvantage such Client transaction. Further, the following specific restrictions apply to all trading activity for Advisory Persons:
1. Any transaction in a security in anticipation of client orders "frontrunning") is prohibited;
2. Any transaction in a security which the Advisory Person knows or has reason to believe is being purchased or sold or considered for purchase or sale by any Client advised by the Firm is prohibited until the transaction has been completed or consideration of such transaction has been abandoned;
3. Any transaction in a security within five business days after any Client advised by the Firm has traded in that security is prohibited;
4. Any profits realized from the purchase and sale, or sale and purchase, of the same security within sixty (60) calendar days is prohibited(3), however, the Chief Compliance Officer of MCA may waive these requirements in his or her discretion in the event of extraordinary circumstance;
5. Any transaction involving options, single stock futures, or other derivatives relating to any security which are held by any investment company advised by the Firm that appears to evade the restrictions of the Code is prohibited;and,
6. Any acquisition of an equity security in an initial public offering is prohibited.
Additionally, no Employee of the Firm shall knowingly sell to or purchase from the Funds or the Trust any security or other property except, in the case of the Funds, securities issued by the Funds.
D. PERSONAL INVESTMENTS WITH EXTERNAL MONEY MANAGERS.
All investments in which an Advisory Person has any beneficial interest or ownership placed with external investment managers (including interests in limited partnerships or trust vehicles, managed accounts, variable annuities or foreign entities) or in any account in which an Advisory Person has discretion must be approved in writing by the Chief Compliance Officer, or person to whom she may delegate, prior to the commitment of initial capital.
Additionally, "Investment Personnel" must obtain approval prior to
investing or acquiring a beneficial ownership interest in a Limited
Offering, whether directly or indirectly. "Investment Personnel" is
defined in Section 17j-1(a)(7) of the Act and shall be deemed to
include any officer of MCA, any person who, in connection with his or
her regular functions or duties, makes or participates in making
recommendations regarding the purchase or sale of securities; any
portfolio manager; or any research analyst. A "Limited Offering" is
generally defined as a private placement and can include interests in
real estate or oil and gas limited partnership interests and other
privately placed securities and funds. The Investment Personnel must
(i) provide notice in writing to the Chief Compliance Officer prior to
acquiring ownership, and (ii) obtain the written approval of the Chief
Compliance Officer, or person to whom she may delegate, prior to
acquiring ownership. The Compliance Department shall maintain a copy
of such approval and reasons supporting the approval as provided under
Section IV of this Code.
The Compliance Department will maintain a list of investment managers used by MCA and a list of investment managers used by Advisory Persons.
If an Advisory Person has been notified that an investment manager is used by MCA, an Advisory Person must notify the Compliance Department and the Head of the Alternative Investments of any material withdrawal of their investment with such investment manager at least two working days prior to an Advisory Person submitting any notice of such withdrawal. To avoid a conflict of interest or the appearance of any conflict, an Advisory Person should also note the reason for the withdrawal if it relates to the investment manager's performance, organization or perceived ability to execute their trading strategy.
E. PROCEDURES TO IMPLEMENT TRADING RESTRICTIONS AND REPORTING OBLIGATIONS.
1. PRIOR APPROVAL OF PURCHASES AND SALES BY ADVISORY PERSONS. No Advisory Person shall purchase or sell, directly or indirectly, any Covered Security, with the exception of Reportable Funds, in which he or she has, or by reason of such transaction acquires, any direct or indirect beneficial ownership without the prior approval of the Chief Compliance Officer of MCA, or other person to whom he or she may
delegate. The Chief Compliance Officer or delegate may condition such approval as he or she deems advisable. Unless otherwise determined by the Chief Compliance Officer or delegate, all approvals expire at the end of the business day following the date of approval.
Such prior approval will be automatically revoked if the Advisory Person discovers that the information provided at the time the proposed transaction was approved is no longer accurate.
Non-interested Directors are exempt from the requirements of this Section E. 1.
2. REPORTABLE FUND TRANSACTIONS. Reportable Fund transactions effected pursuant to an automatic investment plan, or in any account over which the Access Person has no direct or indirect influence or control, do not need to be reported. Changes in allocations of funds connected to an automatic investment plan are considered volitional transactions and need to be reported.
3. MONITORING OF TRADES. All transactions in Covered Securities are to be reported to the Compliance Department via confirmation transaction statements from the Advisory Person's bank or brokerage firm. The Compliance Department will maintain copies of all such transaction reports.
4. CANCELLATION OF TRADES. Any transaction for an account of an Access Person is subject to cancellation or reversal if it is determined by the Chief Compliance Officer that the transaction is or was in conflict with or appeared to be in conflict with any Client transaction or any of the trading restrictions of this Code. Cancellations or reversals of transactions may be required after an extended period past the settlement date.
Client transactions include transactions for any investment company managed by the Firm, any other advisory clients or any other accounts managed or advised by Employees of the Firm for a fee. The determination that a transaction of an Access Person may conflict with a Client transaction will be subjective and individualized and may include questions about timely and adequate dissemination of information, availability of bids and offers, as well as many other factors deemed pertinent for that transaction or series of transactions. It is possible that a cancellation or reversal of a transaction could be costly to an Access Person or his/her family. Therefore, great care is required to adhere to the Firm's trading restrictions and avoid conflicts or the appearance of conflicts.
5. REPORTING SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS. Because the obligations of an investment adviser to maintain records of Employee's personal securities transactions is broader than the type of transactions discussed above in this Section, all Access Persons have the following additional reporting obligations. This report must be submitted within thirty (30) days after the end of each calendar quarter and include: the title and exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, price, number of shares and principal amount of each Covered Security involved, the date and nature of the transaction (i.e. buy/sell), the name of the broker or bank used, if any, interest rate and maturity, if applicable, and the date on which the report is submitted.
Non-interested Directors must report a personal securities transaction only if such Director, at the time of the transaction, knew that during the during the 15-day period immediately preceding or subsequent to the date of the transaction by the Director, such security was purchased or sold by a Fund or was being considered for purchase or sale by the Fund. Non-interested Directors must report securities transactions meeting these requirements within thirty (30) days after the end of each calendar quarter.
6. INITIAL AND ANNUAL REPORTING REQUIREMENTS. Each Access
Person shall initially disclose in writing to the Compliance
Department within ten (10) business days of becoming an
Access Person, and annually thereafter within forty-five
(45) business days after each calendar year-end, the title
and exchange ticker or CUSIP number, type of security,
number of shares and principal amount of all Covered
Securities and Reportable Funds beneficially owned by such
Access Person, and the date the Access Person submits the
report, as of the date of becoming a Access Person or as of
the preceding December 31 for annual reporting and the name
of the broker or bank with whom the Access Person maintains
an account in which he or she has beneficial ownership of
ANY security.
An Access Person need not make an Initial or Annual Report for Covered Securities held in any account over which the Employee has no direct or indirect influence or control.
Non-interested Directors who would need to make an initial or annual holdings report due solely by reason of being a Fund director need not make initial or annual holdings report.
F. CONFIDENTIALITY & OBLIGATIONS OF EMPLOYEES
During the period of employment with the Firm an Employee will have access to certain "confidential information" concerning the Firm and its Clients. This
information is a valuable asset and the sole property of the Firm and may not be misappropriated and used outside of the Firm by an Employee or former Employee. "Confidential Information", defined as all information not publicly available about the business of the Firm, may include, but is not limited to, Client and prospect names and records, research, trading and portfolio information and systems, information concerning externally managed entities or accounts which have been considered or made on behalf of fee paying clients, and the financial records of the Firm and/or its Employees. In order to protect the interests of the Firm, an Employee or ex-Employee shall not, without the express written consent of the Firm's President, disclose directly or indirectly confidential information to anyone outside of the Firm. An Employee should be extremely careful to avoid inadvertent disclosures and to exercise maximum effort to keep confidential information confidential. Any questions concerning the confidentiality of information should be directed to the Chief Compliance Officer or the Legal Counsel. An abuse of the Firm's policy of confidentiality could subject an Employee to immediate disciplinary action that may include dismissal from the Firm.
G. OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT, ASSOCIATIONS AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
1. OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT AND ASSOCIATIONS. It is MCA's policy not to permit Advisory Persons to hold outside positions of authority, including that of being an officer, partner, director or employee of another business entity (except in the case of entities managed by the Firm or not-for-profit organizations). Any exception to this policy must be approved in writing by the Firm's President (or other person as he may delegate) and a copy of such approval shall be provided by the Advisory Person to the Chief Compliance Officer. Under no circumstance may an Advisory Person represent or suggest that MCA has approved or recommended the business activities of the outside organization or any person associated with it.
2. OUTSIDE BUSINESS ACTIVITIES. To further avoid actual or potential conflicts of interest and to maintain impartial investment advice, and equally important, the appearance of impartial investment advice, each Advisory Person must disclose in writing to the Chief Compliance Officer any special relationships and/or investments or business activities that they or their families have which could influence the investment activities of the Firm. If an Employee has any questions about any activities and the need for disclosure, the Employee should be cautious and direct any questions to the Firm's Chief Compliance Officer.
H. GIFTS
It is MCA's policy to prohibit Employees from accepting any gift or any other thing of more than de minimis value from any person or entity that does business
with or on behalf of any Fund or MCA. No gifts from such a person or entity may be received at an Employee's residence.
I. CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE BY ACCESS PERSONS.
MCA shall distribute the Code to each Employee upon inception of employment and whenever the Code is amended, but no less frequently than annually. Each Access Person is required to certify in writing annually that (i) he or she has read and understands the Code, (ii) recognizes that he or she is subject to the Code, and (iii) he or she has disclosed or reported all Personal Securities Transactions required to be disclosed or reported under the Code.
Each Access Person who has not engaged in any personal securities transactions during the preceding year for which a report was required to be filed pursuant to the Code shall include a certification to that effect in his or her annual certification.
J. ANNUAL REPORT TO THE TRUST'S BOARD OF TRUSTEES.
The Chief Compliance Officer shall prepare an annual report to the board of trustees of the Trust that:
1. summarizes existing procedures concerning personal investing and any changes in those procedures during the past year;
2. describes issues that arose during the previous year under the Code or procedures concerning personal investing, including but not limited to information about material violations of the Code and sanctions imposed;
3. certifies to the board that the Trust has adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent its Employees and Access Persons from violating the Code; and
4. identifies any recommended changes in existing restrictions or procedures based upon experience under the Code, evolving industry practices, or developments in applicable laws or regulations.
III. POLICY STATEMENT ON INSIDER TRADING
A. BACKGROUND
Trading securities while in possession of material, nonpublic information or improperly communicating that information to others may expose you to stringent penalties. Criminal sanctions may include a fine of up to $1,000,000 and/or ten years imprisonment. The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) can recover the profits gained or losses avoided through the violative trading, obtain a penalty of up to three times the illicit windfall and issue an order permanently barring you
from the securities industry. Finally, an Employee may be sued by investors seeking to recover damages for insider trading violations.
Regardless of whether a government inquiry occurs, MCA views seriously any violation of this Policy Statement. Such violations constitute grounds for disciplinary sanctions, including dismissal. The law of insider trading is unsettled; an individual legitimately may be uncertain about the application of the Policy Statement in a particular circumstance. Often, a single question can forestall disciplinary action or complex legal problems. Any questions relating to the Policy Statement should be directed to the Legal Counsel or the Chief Compliance Officer.
Legal Counsel or the Chief Compliance Officer must be informed immediately if an Access Person has any reason to believe that a violation of the Policy Statement has occurred or is about to occur.
B. POLICY STATEMENT ON INSIDER TRADING
No person to whom this Policy Statement applies may trade, either personally or on behalf of others (such as Clients), while in possession of material, nonpublic information; nor may such persons communicate material, nonpublic information to others in violation of the law. This Policy Statement is drafted broadly; it will be applied and interpreted in a similar manner. This Policy Statement applies to securities trading and information handling by all Access Persons (including their spouses, minor children and adult members of their households).
The section below reviews principles important to this Policy Statement.
1. WHAT IS MATERIAL INFORMATION?
Information is "material" when there is a substantial likelihood that a reasonable investor would consider it important in making his or her investment decisions. Generally, this is information whose disclosure will have a substantial effect on the price of a company's securities. No simple "bright line" test exists to determine when information is material; assessments of materiality involve a highly fact specific inquiry. For this reason, Access Persons should direct any questions about whether information is material to Legal Counsel or the Chief Compliance Officer. Material information often relates to a company's results and operations including, for example, dividend changes, earnings results, changes in previously released earnings estimates, significant merger or acquisition proposals or agreements, major litigation, liquidity problems, and extraordinary management developments.
Material information also may relate to the market for a company's securities. Information about a significant order to purchase or sell securities may, in some contexts, be deemed material. Similarly,
prepublication information regarding reports in the financial press also may be deemed material.
2. WHAT IS NONPUBLIC INFORMATION?
Information is "nonpublic" until it has been disseminated broadly to investors in the marketplace.
Tangible evidence of such dissemination is the best indication that the information is public. For example, information is public after it has become available to the general public through a public filing with the SEC or some other governmental agency, the Dow Jones "tape" or the WALL STREET JOURNAL or some other publication of general circulation and after sufficient time has passed so that the information has been disseminated widely.
3. IDENTIFYING INSIDE INFORMATION
Before an Access Person executes any trade for him- or herself or others, including Clients, the Access Person must determine whether he or she has access to material, nonpublic information. If the Access Person thinks that he or she might have access to material, nonpublic information, he or she should take the following steps:
i. Immediately alert the Trader to restrict trading in the security by placing the security on the restricted list maintained by the Trader. No reason or explanation should be given to the Trader. In her absence, contact the Chief Compliance Officer.
ii. Report the information and proposed trade immediately to Legal Counsel or the Chief Compliance Officer.
iii. Do not purchase or sell the securities on behalf of him- or herself or others, including Clients.
iv. Do not communicate the information inside or outside MCA other than to the above individuals.
After the above individuals have reviewed the issue, the Firm will determine whether the information is material and nonpublic and, if so, what action the Firm should take.
4. CONTACTS WITH PUBLIC COMPANIES
For MCA, contacts with public companies represent an important part of our research efforts. MCA may make investment decisions on the basis of the Firm's conclusions formed through such contacts and analysis of publicly-available information. Difficult legal issues arise, however, when, in the course of these contacts, an Access Person becomes aware of
material, nonpublic information. This could happen, for example, if a company's Chief Financial Officer prematurely discloses quarterly results to an analyst or an investor relations representative makes a selective disclosure of adverse news to a handful of investors. In such situations, the Firm must make a judgment as to its further conduct. To protect oneself, Clients and the Firm, an Access Person should contact Legal Counsel or the Chief Compliance Officer immediately if he or she believes that they may have received material, nonpublic information.
5. TENDER OFFERS
Tender offers represent a particular concern in the law of insider trading for two reasons. First, tender offer activity often produces extraordinary gyrations in the price of the target company's securities.
Trading during this time period is more likely to attract regulatory attention (and produces a disproportionate percentage of insider trading cases). Second, the SEC has adopted a rule which expressly forbids trading and "tipping" while in possession of material, nonpublic information regarding a tender offer received from the tender offeror, the target company or anyone acting on behalf of either. Employees should exercise particular caution any time they become aware of nonpublic information relating to a tender offer.
C. PROCEDURES TO IMPLEMENT THE POLICY STATEMENT ON INSIDER TRADING
1. PERSONAL SECURITIES TRADING
The restrictions on Employee trading and procedures to implement those restrictions and the Firm's reporting obligations, which are set forth in Section II above, constitute the same procedures to implement this Policy Statement. Review those procedures carefully and direct any questions about their scope or applicability to the Chief Compliance Officer.
2. RESTRICTIONS ON DISCLOSURES
MCA Employees shall not disclose any nonpublic information
(whether or not it is material) relating to MCA or its securities
transactions to any person outside the Firm (unless such
disclosure has been authorized by the Chief Compliance Officer).
Material, nonpublic information may not be communicated to
anyone, including persons within MCA, except as provided in
Section III(B)(3) above. Such information must be secured. For
example, access to files containing material, nonpublic
information and computer files containing such information should
be restricted, and conversations containing such information, if
appropriate at all, should be conducted in private.
IV. RETENTION OF RECORDS
The Chief Compliance Officer, or other person as she may designate, will maintain the records listed below for a period of five years. Such records shall be maintained at the Firm's principal place of business in an easily accessible place:
1. a list of all persons subject to the Code during that period;
2. receipts signed by all persons subject to the Code acknowledging receipt of copies of the Code and acknowledging that they are subject to it;
3. a copy of each Code of Ethics that has been in effect at any time during the period;
4. a copy of each report filed pursuant to the Code and a record of any known violations and actions taken as a result thereof during the period as well as a record of all persons responsible for reviewing these reports.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RECEIPT OF CODE OF ETHICS AND
STATEMENT ON
INSIDER TRADING
FOR ACCESS PERSONS
CODE OF ETHICS. MEMBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. ("MCA"), the Declaration of Trust of MEMBERS Mutual Funds and the Declaration of Trust of the Ultra Series Fund, including any series of shares of beneficial interest of the Trust (each, a "Fund") have adopted a written Code of Ethics and Statement on Insider Trading (the "Code") to avoid potential conflicts of interest by MCA personnel and to govern the use and handling of material non-public information. A copy of the Code is attached to this acknowledgement. As a condition of your continued employment with MCA and/or the retention of your position, if any, as an officer of the Trust, you are required to read, understand and abide by the Code.
COMPLIANCE PROGRAM. The Code requires that all personnel furnish to the Chief Compliance Officer information regarding any investment account in which you have a "beneficial interest." You are also required to furnish to the Chief Compliance Officer copies of documents showing all purchases or sales of securities in any such account, or which are effected by you or for your benefit, or the benefit of any member of your household. Additionally, you are required to furnish a report of your personal securities holdings within ten days of commencement of your employment with MCA and annually thereafter. These requirements apply to any investment account, such as an account at a brokerage house, trust account at a bank, custodial account or similar types of accounts. This compliance program also requires that you report any contact with any securities issuer, government or its personnel, or others that, in the usual course of business, might involve material nonpublic financial information. The Code requires that you bring to the attention of Legal Counsel or the Chief Compliance Officer any information you receive from any source which might be material nonpublic information.
Any questions concerning the Code should be directed to the Chief Compliance Officer.
I affirm that I have read and understand the Code. I agree to the terms and conditions set forth in the Code.
------------------------------------- ------------------------- Signature Date |
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF
CODE OF ETHICS AND STATEMENT ON INSIDER TRADING
FOR NON-INTERESTED DIRECTORS
MEMEBERS Capital Advisors, Inc. (MCA), the Declaration of Trust of the MEMBERS Mutual Funds, and the Declaration of Trust of the Ultra Series Funds, including any series of shares of beneficial interest of the Trust (each, a "Fund") has adopted a written Code of Ethics (the "Code") to avoid any conflicts of interest. A copy of the Code is attached to this acknowledgement. As a condition of the retention of your position as a Fund Director, you are required to read, understand, and abide by this Code.
Any questions concerning the Code should be directed to the Chief Compliance Officer of the Funds.
I affirm that I have read and understand the Code. I agree to the terms and conditions set forth in the Code.
------------------------------------- ------------------------- Signature Date |
ANNUAL AFFIRMATION OF COMPLIANCE
FOR ACCESS PERSONS
I affirm that:
1. I have again read and, during the past year to the best of my knowledge, have complied with the Code of Ethics and Statement of Insider Trading (the "Code").
2. I have provided to the Chief Compliance Officer the names and addresses of each investment account that I have with any firm, including, but not limited to, broker-dealers, banks and others. (List of known accounts attached.)
3. I have provided to the Chief Compliance Officer copies of reports showing each and every transaction in any security in which I have a beneficial interest, as defined in the Code, during the most recently ended calendar year or during the most recent calendar year there were no transactions in any security in which I had a beneficial interest required to be reported pursuant to the Code.
4. I have provided to the Chief Compliance Officer a report of my personal securities holdings as of the end of the most recent calendar year, including all required information for each security in which I have any direct or indirect beneficial ownership.
------------------------------------- ------------------------ Signature Date |
APPENDIX A
EXAMPLES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
For purposes of the Code, you will be deemed to have a beneficial interest in a security if you have the opportunity, directly or indirectly, to profit or share in any profit derived from a transaction in the security. Examples of beneficial ownership under this definition include:
- securities you own, no matter how they are registered, and including securities held for you by others (for example, by a custodian or broker, or by a relative, executor or administrator) or that you have pledged to another (as security for a loan, for example);
- securities held by a trust of which you are a beneficiary (except that, if your interest is a remainder interest and you do not have or participate in investment control of trust assets, you will not be deemed to have a beneficial interest in securities held by the trust);
- securities held by you as trustee or co-trustee, where either you or any member of your immediate family (i.e., spouse, children or descendants, stepchildren, parents and their ancestors, and stepparents, in each case treating a legal adoption as blood relationship) has a beneficial interest (using these rules) in the trust;
- securities held by a trust of which you are the settlor, if you have the power to revoke the trust without obtaining the consent of all the beneficiaries and have or participate in investment control;
- securities held by any partnership in which you are a general partner, to the extent of your interest in partnership capital or profits;
- securities held by a personal holding company controlled by you alone or jointly with others;
- securities held by (i) your spouse, unless legally separated, or you and your spouse jointly, or (ii) your minor children or any immediate family member of you or your spouse (including an adult relative), directly or through a trust, who is sharing your home, even if the securities were not received from you and the income from the securities is not actually used for the maintenance of your household; or
- securities you have the right to acquire (for example, through the exercise of a derivative security), even if the right is not presently exercisable, or securities as to which, through any other type of arrangement, you obtain benefits substantially equivalent to those of ownership.
You will NOT be deemed to have beneficial ownership of securities in the following situations:
- securities held by a limited partnership in which you do not have a controlling interest and do not have or share investment control over the partnership's portfolio; and
- securities held by a foundation of which you are a trustee and donor, provided that the beneficiaries are exclusively charitable and you have no right to revoke the gift.
These examples are not exclusive. There are other circumstances in which you may be deemed to have a beneficial interest in a security. Any questions about whether you have a beneficial interest should be directed to Legal Counsel or Chief Compliance Officer.
Exhibit (p)(4)
CODE OF ETHICS AND PERSONAL INVESTMENT POLICY
FOR
LAZARD ASSET MANAGEMENT LLC
LAZARD ASSET MANAGEMENT SECURITIES LLC
LAZARD ASSET MANAGEMENT (CANADA) INC.
LAZARD ALTERNATIVES LLC
AND
CERTAIN REGISTERED INVESTMENT COMPANIES
Lazard Asset Management LLC, Lazard Asset Management Securities LLC, Lazard Asset Management (Canada) Inc., Lazard Alternatives LLC (collectively "LAM"), and those U.S.-registered investment companies advised or managed by LAM that have adopted this policy ("Funds"), have adopted this policy in order to accomplish two primary goals: first, to minimize conflicts and potential conflicts of interest between LAM employees and LAM's clients (including the Funds and shareholders of the Funds), and between Fund directors or trustees ("Directors") and their Funds, and second, to provide policies and procedures consistent with applicable law, including Rule 204-2 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (the "Advisers Act") and Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 ("1940 Act"), to prevent fraudulent or manipulative practices with respect to purchases or sales of securities held or to be acquired by client accounts. In addition, it is LAM's policy that LAM employees should not be engaging in short-term investing, including so-called market timing of any mutual funds, whether or not managed by LAM. This Policy therefore prohibits certain short-term trading activity by LAM employees.
ALL EMPLOYEES OF LAM, INCLUDING EMPLOYEES WHO SERVE AS FUND OFFICERS OR DIRECTORS, ARE "COVERED PERSONS" UNDER THIS POLICY AND ARE REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH ALL APPLICABLE FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS. Additionally, all Directors are subject to this policy as indicated below.
A. STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES. All Covered Persons owe a fiduciary duty to LAM's clients when conducting their personal investment transactions. Covered Persons must place the interest of clients first and avoid activities, interests and relationships that might interfere with the duty to make decisions in the best interests of the clients. All Directors owe a fiduciary duty to each Fund of which they are a director and to that Fund's shareholders when conducting their personal investment transactions. At all times and in all matters Directors shall place the interests of their Funds before their personal interests. The fundamental standard to be followed in personal securities transactions is that Covered Persons and Directors may not take inappropriate advantage of their positions.
Covered Persons are reminded that they also are subject to other policies of LAM, including policies on insider trading, and the receipt of gifts and service as a director of a publicly traded company. Covered Persons must never trade in a security while in possession of material,
1 February 2006
non-public information about the issuer or the market for those securities, even if the Covered Person has satisfied all other requirements of this policy.
LAM's Chief Executive Officer has appointed the Chief Compliance Officer as the person who shall be responsible for the implementation of this Code of Ethics and Personal Investment Policy and all record-keeping functions mandated hereunder, including the review of all initial and annual holding reports as well as the quarterly transactions reports described below. The Chief Compliance Officer may delegate this function to others in the Legal / Compliance Department, and shall promptly report to LAM's General Counsel or the Chief Executive Officer all material violations of, or deviations from, this policy.
B. PERSONAL SECURITIES ACCOUNTS.
For purposes of this Policy, "PERSONAL SECURITIES ACCOUNTS" INCLUDE:
1. Any account in or through which securities (including open end mutual funds) can be purchased or sold, which includes, but is not limited to, a brokerage account, 401k account, or variable annuity or variable life insurance policy;
2. Accounts in the Covered Person's or Director's name or accounts in which the Covered Person or Director has a direct or indirect beneficial interest (a definition of Beneficial Ownership is included in Exhibit A);
3. Accounts in the name of the Covered Person's or Director's spouse;
4. Accounts in the name of children under the age of 18, whether or not living with the Covered Person or Director, and accounts in the name of relatives or other individuals living with the Covered Person or Director or for whose support the Covered Person or Director is wholly or partially responsible (together with the Covered Person's or Director's spouse and minor children, "Related Persons"); (1)
5. Accounts in which the Covered Person or Director or any Related Person directly or indirectly controls, participates in, or has the right to control or participate in, investment decisions.
For purposes of this Policy, PERSONAL SECURITIES ACCOUNTS DO NOT INCLUDE:
1. Estate or trust accounts in which a Covered Person, Director, or Related Person has a beneficial interest, but no power to affect investment decisions. There must be no communication between the account(s) and the Covered Person, Director or Related Person with regard to investment decisions prior to execution;
2. Fully discretionary accounts managed by LAM or another registered investment adviser are permitted if, (i) for Covered Persons and Related Persons, the Covered Persons receives permission from the Legal / Compliance Department, and (ii) for all persons covered by this Code, there is no communication between the adviser to the account and such person with regard to investment decisions prior to execution. Covered Persons with managed accounts must designate that copies of trade confirmations and monthly statements be sent to the Legal / Compliance Department;
2 February 2006
3. Direct investment programs, which allow the purchase of securities directly from the issuer without the intermediation of a broker/dealer, provided that the timing and size of the purchases are established by a pre-arranged, regularized schedule (e.g., dividend reinvestment plans). Covered Persons must pre-clear the transaction at the time that the dividend reinvestment plan is being set up. Covered Persons also must provide documentation of these arrangements and direct periodic (monthly or quarterly) statements to the Legal / Compliance Department;
4. 401k and similar retirement accounts that permit the participant to change their investments no more frequently than once per quarter. Such accounts that allow participants to trade more frequently (such as, for example, an "Individually Directed Account"), are Personal Securities Accounts for purposes of this Code.
5. Other accounts over which the Covered Person or Director has no direct or indirect influence or control;
6. Qualified state tuition programs (also known as "529 Programs") where investment options and frequency of transactions are limited by state or federal laws.
C. OPENING AND MAINTAINING EMPLOYEE ACCOUNTS. All Covered Persons and their Related Persons must maintain their Personal Securities Accounts at Lazard Capital Markets LLC ("LCM"). If your account is a mutual fund only account, you do not need to maintain it at LCM. Additionally, if LCM does not offer a particular investment product or service, or for Related Persons who, by reason of their employment, are required to conduct their securities transactions in a manner inconsistent with this policy, or in other exceptional circumstances, Covered Persons may submit a request for exemption to the Legal / Compliance Department. For any Personal Securities Account not maintained at LCM Covered Persons and their Related Persons must arrange to have duplicate copies of trade confirmations and statements provided to the Legal and Compliance Department at the following address: Lazard Asset Management LLC, Attn: Chief Compliance Officer, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, 59th Floor, New York, NY 10112. All other provisions of this policy will continue to apply to any Personal Securities Account not maintained at LCM.
D. SECURITIES.
For purposes of this Policy, "SECURITY" INCLUDES, in general, any interest or instrument commonly known as a security including the following:
1. stocks
2. bonds
3. shares of open and closed-end funds (including exchange-traded funds) and unit investment trusts
4. hedge funds
5. private equity funds
6. limited partnerships
7. private placements or unlisted securities
8. debentures, and other evidences of indebtedness, including senior debt, subordinated debt
9. investment, commodity or futures contracts
10. all derivative instruments such as options, warrants and indexed instruments
3 February 2006
"SECURITY" also includes securities that are "related" to a security being purchased or sold by a LAM client. A "RELATED SECURITY" is one whose value is derived from the value of another security (e.g., a warrant, option, or an indexed instrument).
For purposes of this Policy, SECURITY DOES NOT INCLUDE:
1. money market mutual funds
2. U.S. Treasury obligations
3. mortgage pass-throughs (e.g., Ginnie Maes) that are direct obligations of the U.S. government
4. bankers' acceptances
5. bank certificates of deposit
6. commercial paper
7. high quality short-term debt instruments (meaning any instrument that has a maturity at issuance of less than 366 days and that is rated in one of the two highest rating categories by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization, such as S&P or Moody's), including repurchase agreements.
E. RESTRICTIONS. The following restrictions apply to trading for Personal Securities Accounts of Covered Persons and Related Persons:
1. CONFLICTS WITH CLIENT ACTIVITY. No security, excluding open end mutual funds, may be purchased or sold in any Personal Securities Account seven (7) calendar days before or after a LAM client account trades in the same security.
2. 60 DAY HOLDING PERIOD. Securities transactions, including transactions in mutual funds other than money-market mutual funds, must be for investment purposes rather than for speculation. Consequently, Covered Persons or their Related Persons may not profit from the purchase and sale, or sale and purchase, of the same or equivalent securities within sixty (60) calendar days (i.e., the security may be purchased or sold on the 61st day), calculated on a First In, First Out (FIFO) basis. All profits from short-term trades are subject to disgorgement. However, with the prior written approval of the Chief Compliance Officer, or in his absence another senior member of the Legal / Compliance Department, and only in the case of hardship, or other rare and/or unusual circumstances, a Covered Person or a Related Person may execute a short-term trade that results in a loss or in break-even status.
Notwithstanding the above, the 60-day holding period will not apply (although the obligation to pre-clear trades will apply) to shares of exchange traded funds, options on exchange traded funds and open-end mutual funds that seek to track the performance of U.S. broad-based large-capitalization indices (i.e., the QQQ or an S&P 500 Index fund). Nevertheless, short-term trading in shares of these funds is discouraged. If a pattern of frequent trading is detected, the Legal / Compliance Department may reject any order to buy or sell these shares.
3. INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS (IPOS). No transaction for a Personal Securities Account may be made in securities offered pursuant to an initial public offering.
4. PRIVATE PLACEMENTS. Securities offered pursuant to a private placement (e.g., hedge funds, private equity funds or any other pooled investment vehicle the interests or shares of which are offered in a private placement) may not be purchased or sold by a Covered Person
4 February 2006
without the prior approval of LAM's Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Compliance Officer; however, purchases or sales of Lazard sponsored hedge funds do not require such approval. The Alternative Investments Operations Department instead provides the Legal / Compliance Department on at least a quarterly basis with a report for their review of all Covered Persons' investments in Lazard sponsored hedge funds. In connection with any decision to approve such a private placement, the Legal / Compliance Department will prepare a report of the decision that explains the reasoning for the decision and an analysis of any potential conflict of interest. Any Covered Person receiving approval to acquire securities in a private placement must disclose that investment when the Covered Person participates in a LAM client's subsequent consideration of an investment in such issuer and any decision by or made on behalf of the LAM client to invest in such issuer will be subject to an independent review by investment personnel of LAM with no personal interest in the issuer.
5. HEDGE FUNDS. Hedge funds are sold on a private placement basis and as noted above, with the exception of Lazard sponsored hedge funds, are subject to prior approval by LAM's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Compliance Officer. In considering whether or not to approve an investment in a hedge fund, the Chief Compliance Officer or his designee, will review a copy of the fund's offering memorandum, subscription documents and other governing documents ("Offering Documents") in order to ensure that the proposed investment is being made on the same terms generally available to all other investors in the hedge fund. The Chief Compliance Officer may grant exceptions to this general rule under certain circumstances. For example, such as when a family relationship exists between the Covered Person and the hedge fund manager.
Upon receipt of a request by a Covered Person to invest in a hedge fund, the Legal / Compliance Department will contact the Fund of Funds Group (the "Team") and identify the fund in which the Covered Person has requested permission to invest. The Team will advise the Legal / Compliance Department if the fund is on the Team's approved list or if the Team is otherwise interested in investing clients assets in the fund. If the fund is not on the Team's approved list and the Team is not interested in investing in the fund, the Chief Compliance Officer and the Chief Executive Officer will generally approve the Covered Person's investment, unless other considerations warrant disapproving the investment. If the fund is on the approved list or the Team may be interested in investing in the fund, then the Legal / Compliance Department will determine whether the fund is subject to capacity constraints. If the fund is subject to capacity constraints, then the Covered Person's request will be denied and priority will be given to the Team to invest client assets in the fund. If the fund is not subject to capacity constraints, then the Covered Person will generally be permitted to invest along with the Team. If the fund is on the approved list or the Team may be interested in investing in the fund, then the Covered Person's investment must be made generally on the same terms available to all investors as set forth in the fund's Offering Documents.
6. SPECULATIVE TRADING. Absent approval from the appropriate compliance personnel, Covered Persons are prohibited from engaging in the trading of options or futures and from engaging in speculative trading, as opposed to investment activity. The Covered Person must wait 60 days from the date of the opening transaction before effecting the closing transaction.
7. SHORT SALES. Covered Persons are prohibited from engaging in short sales of any security. However, provided the investment is otherwise permitted under this Policy and has
5 February 2006
received all necessary approvals, an investment in a hedge fund that engages in short selling is permitted.
8. INSIDE INFORMATION. No transaction may be made in violation of the Material Non-Public Information Policies and Procedures ("Inside Information") as outlined in Section 32 of the LAM Compliance Manual; and
9. DIRECTORSHIPS. Covered Persons may not serve on the board of directors of any corporation (other than a not-for-profit corporation or a related Lazard entity) without the prior approval of LAM's Chief Compliance Officer or General Counsel.
10. CONTROL OF ISSUER. Covered Persons and Related Persons may not acquire any security, directly or indirectly, for purposes of obtaining control of the issuer.
F. PROHIBITED RECOMMENDATIONS. No Covered Person shall recommend or execute any securities transaction for any client account, or, in the case of a Director, for the Director's Fund, without having disclosed, in writing, to the Chief Compliance Officer, or in his absence another senior member of the Legal / Compliance Department, any direct or indirect interest in such securities or issuers (including any such interest held by a Related Person). Prior written approval of such recommendation or execution also must be received from the Chief Compliance Officer, or in his absence another senior member of the Legal / Compliance Department. The interest in personal accounts could be in the form of:
1. Any direct or indirect beneficial ownership of any securities of such issuer;
2. Any contemplated transaction by the person in such securities;
3. Any position with such issuer or its affiliates; or
4. Any present or proposed business relationship between such issuer or its affiliates and the person or any party in which such person has a significant interest.
G. TRANSACTION APPROVAL PROCEDURES. All transactions by Covered Persons (including Related Persons) in Personal Securities Accounts must receive prior approval as described below. To pre-clear a transaction, Covered Persons must:
1. Electronically complete and "sign" a "New Equity Order", "New Bond Order" or "New Mutual Fund Order" trade ticket located in the Firm's Lotus-Notes e-mail application under the heading "Employee Trades."
2. The ticket is then automatically transmitted to the Legal / Compliance Department where it will be processed. If approved, the Legal / Compliance Department will route mutual fund orders directly to Securities Processing and will route equity and bond orders directly to the trading desk for execution, provided the employee selected the "Direct Execution" option when completing the equity or bond order ticket. For any account not maintained at LCM, the ticket will be returned to the employee.
Note: In completing an equity or bond order ticket, if the employee does not select the "Direct Execution" button, the ticket will be returned to her/him after Compliance approval for submission to the trading desk, or in the case of an account not maintained at LCM, to the Legal / Compliance Department to indicate that the trade will be executed. In
6 February 2006
such case, the trade must be submitted within 2 business days or it will expire and be null and void.
The Legal / Compliance Department endeavors to preclear transactions promptly; however, transactions may not always be approved on the day in which they are received. Certain factors such as time of day the order is submitted or length of time it takes a LAM portfolio manager to confirm there is no client activity, all play a role in the length of time it takes to preclear a transaction. Mutual Fund Orders that are not received by the Legal / Compliance Department by 2:00 p.m. on any business day will most likely not be processed until the next business day (i.e., the order will not receive that business days' net asset value for the relevant mutual fund).
H. ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND REPORTING.
1. INITIAL CERTIFICATION. Within 10 days of becoming a Covered Person or Director, such Covered Person or Director must submit to the Legal / Compliance Department an acknowledgement that they have received a copy of this policy, and that they have read and understood its provisions. See Exhibit B for the form of Acknowledgement.
2. INITIAL HOLDINGS REPORT. Within 10 days of becoming a Covered Person,
all LAM personnel must submit to the Legal / Compliance Department a
statement of all securities in which such Covered Person has any
direct or indirect beneficial ownership. This statement must include
(i) the title, number of shares and principal amount of each security,
(ii) the name of any broker, dealer, insurance company, mutual fund or
bank with whom the Covered Person maintained an account in which any
securities were held for the direct or indirect benefit of such
Covered Person and (iii) the date of submission by the Covered Person.
The information provided in this statement must be current as of a
date no more than 45 days prior to the Covered Person's date of
employment at LAM. Such information should be provided on the form
attached as Exhibit B.
3. QUARTERLY REPORT. Within 30 days after the end of each calendar quarter, provide information to the Legal / Compliance Department relating to securities transactions executed during the previous quarter for all securities accounts. Any such report may contain a statement that the report shall not be construed as an admission by the person making such report that he or she has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership in the security to which the report relates.
Note: Covered Persons satisfy this requirement by holding their personal securities accounts at LCM.
4. ANNUAL REPORT. Each Covered Person shall submit an annual report to
the Legal / Compliance Department showing as of a date no more than 45
days before the report is submitted (1) all holdings in securities in
which the person had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership and
(2) the name of any broker, dealer, insurance company, mutual fund or
bank with whom the person maintains an account in which any securities
are held for the direct or indirect benefit of the Covered Person or
Related Persons.
Note: Covered Persons satisfy this requirement by certifying annually that all transactions during the year were executed in Internal Accounts or Outside Accounts for which the Legal and Compliance Department receives confirmations and periodic statements.
7 February 2006
5. ANNUAL CERTIFICATION. All Covered Persons and Directors are required to certify annually that they have (i) read and understand this policy and recognize that they are subject to its terms and conditions, (ii) complied with the requirements of this policy and (iii) disclosed or reported all personal securities accounts and transactions required to be disclosed or reported pursuant to this Code of Ethics and Personal Investment Policy.
I. FUND DIRECTORS. A Director who is not an "interested person" of the Fund within the meaning of Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act, and who would be required to make reports solely by reason of being a Director, is required to make the quarterly transactions reports required by Section H (3.) as to any security if at the time of a transaction by the Director in that security, he/she knew, or in the ordinary course of fulfilling his/her official duties as a Fund Director, should have known that during the 15-day period immediately preceding or following the date of that transaction, that security was purchased or sold by that Director's Fund or was being considered for purchase or sale by that Director's Fund.
If a Director introduces a hedge fund to the Team, as previously defined in
Section E (5.), the Director is required to inform the Team whether the Director
or an affiliated person of the Director has invested in the fund and the terms
of such investment. If a Director decides to invest in a hedge fund that he knew
or, in the ordinary course of fulfilling his responsibilities as a Director
should have known that the hedge fund is held by or is being considered for
purchase or sale by the Team, the Director is required, before making the
investment, to disclose this to the Team and any different terms or rights that
have been granted to the Director. If a Director learns, in the ordinary course
of fulfilling his responsibilities as a Director, that the Team has invested in
a fund in which the Director has an investment, the Director should advise the
Chief Compliance Officer of such investment.
J. EXEMPTIONS.
1. Purchases or sales of securities which receive the prior approval of the Chief Compliance Officer, or in his absence another senior member of the Legal / Compliance Department, may be exempted from certain restrictions if such purchases or sales are determined to be unlikely to have any material negative economic impact on any client account managed or advised by LAM.
2. Section E (1.) (blackout period) shall not apply to any securities transaction, or series of related transactions, involving up to 500 shares of a security, but not to exceed an aggregate transaction amount of $25,000 of any security, provided the issuer has a market capitalization greater than US $5 billion ("Large Cap/De Minimus exemption"). This exemption does not apply to shares of mutual funds or to option contracts on indices or other types of securities whose value is derived from a broad-based index.
K. SANCTIONS. The Legal / Compliance Department shall report all material violations of this Code of Ethics and Personal Investment Policy to LAM's Chief Executive Officer, who may impose such sanctions as deemed appropriate, including, among other things, a letter of censure, fine or suspension or termination of the employment of the violator.
L. CONFIDENTIALITY. All information obtained from any person pursuant to this policy shall be kept in strict confidence, except that such information will be made available to the Securities and Exchange Commission or any other regulatory or self-regulatory organization or to the Fund Boards of Directors to the extent required by law, regulation or this policy.
8 February 2006
M. RETENTION OF RECORDS. All records relating to personal securities transactions hereunder and other records meeting the requirements of applicable law, including a copy of this policy and any other policies covering the subject matter hereof, shall be maintained in the manner and to the extent required by applicable law, including Rule 204-2 under the Advisers Act and Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. The Legal / Compliance Department shall have the responsibility for maintaining records created under this policy.
N. BOARD REVIEW. Fund management shall provide to the Board of Directors of each Fund, on a quarterly basis, a written report of all material violations of this policy, and at least annually, a written report and certification meeting the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act.
O. OTHER CODES OF ETHICS. To the extent that any officer of any Fund is not a Covered Person hereunder, or an investment subadviser of or principal underwriter for any Fund and their respective access persons (as defined in Rule 17j-1) are not Covered Persons hereunder, those persons must be covered by separate codes of ethics which are approved in accordance with applicable law.
P. AMENDMENTS.
1. COVERED PERSONS. Unless otherwise noted herein, this policy shall become effective as to all Covered Persons on April 1, 2005. This policy may be amended as to Covered Persons from time to time by the Legal / Compliance Department. Any material amendment of this policy shall be submitted to the Board of Directors of each Fund for approval in accordance with Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act.
2. FUND DIRECTORS. This policy shall become effective as to a Fund upon the approval and adoption of this policy by the Board of Directors of that Fund in accordance with Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act or at such earlier date as determined by the Secretary of the Fund. Any material amendment of this policy that applies to the Directors of a Fund shall become effective as to the Directors of that Fund only when the Board of Directors of that Fund has approved the amendment in accordance with Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act or at such earlier date as determined by the Secretary of the Fund.
9 February 2006
EXHIBIT A
EXPLANATION OF BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP
You are considered to have "Beneficial Ownership" of Securities if you have or share a direct or indirect "Pecuniary Interest" in the Securities.
You have a "Pecuniary Interest" in Securities if you have the opportunity, directly or indirectly, to profit or share in any profit derived from a transaction in the Securities.
The following are examples of an indirect Pecuniary Interest in Securities:
1. Securities held by members of your immediate family sharing the same household; however, this presumption may be rebutted by convincing evidence that profits derived from transactions in these Securities will not provide you with any economic benefit. "Immediate family" means any child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law, and includes any adoptive relationship.
2. Your interest as a general partner in Securities held by a general or limited partnership.
3. Your interest as a manager-member in the Securities held by a limited liability company.
You do not have an indirect Pecuniary Interest in Securities held by a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or other entity in which you hold an equity interest, unless you are a controlling equityholder or you have or share investment control over the Securities held by the entity.
The following circumstances constitute Beneficial Ownership by you of Securities held by a trust:
1. Your ownership of Securities as a trustee where either you or members of your immediate family have a vested interest in the principal or income of the trust.
2. Your ownership of a vested interest in a trust.
3. Your status as a settlor of a trust, unless the consent of all of the beneficiaries is required in order for you to revoke the trust.
The foregoing is a summary of the meaning of "beneficial ownership". For purposes of the attached policy, "beneficial ownership" shall be interpreted in the same manner, as it would be in determining whether a person is subject to the provisions of Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the rules and regulations thereunder.
10 February 2006
EXHIBIT B
LAM ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & INITIAL HOLDINGS REPORT
PURSUANT TO CODE OF ETHICS AND PERSONAL INVESTMENT POLICY (THE "POLICY")
THIS REPORT MUST BE COMPLETED AND RETURNED TO THE LEGAL / COMPLIANCE DEPARTMENT WITHIN 10 DAYS OF EMPLOYMENT.
NAME: ____________________________________ DATE OF EMPLOYMENT: _______________
(PLEASE PRINT)
ACCOUNT INFORMATION:
[ ] I do not have a beneficial interest in any account(s) with any financial services firm.
[ ] I maintain the following account(s). Please list any broker, dealer, insurance company, mutual fund or bank, which holds securities for your direct or indirect benefit as of the date of your employment. This includes 401k accounts, insurance company variable insurance contracts, mutual fund-only accounts.*
Type of Account (Brokerage, Mutual Is this a Fund, Variable Annuity, Account Managed Name of Financial Services Firm 401k.) Name on Account Number Account? ------------------------------- ----------------------- --------------- ------- --------- |
* 401k accounts and similar retirement accounts that permit the participant to change their investments no more frequently than once per quarter need not be reported.
11 February 2006
SECURITIES HOLDINGS INFORMATION:
FOR EACH OF THE ACCOUNTS LISTED ABOVE, ATTACH TO THIS REPORT A COPY OF YOUR MOST RECENT STATEMENTS(S) LISTING ALL OF YOUR SECURITIES HOLDINGS. ALL STATEMENTS MUST BE CURRENT AS OF A DATE NO MORE THAN 45 PRIOR TO YOUR DATE OF EMPLOYMENT AT LAM. In addition, please list in the space provided below holdings in hedge funds, private equity funds, limited partnerships or any other type of security that may not be held in an account listed above.
Description of Security Type of Security No. of Shares Principal Amount Invested ----------------------- ---------------- ------------- ------------------------- |
[ ] I have no securities holdings to report.
I certify that I have received a copy of the Policy, and that I have read and understood its provisions. I further certify that this report represents a complete and accurate description of my account(s) and securities holdings as of my initial date of employment. The information provided is current as of a date no more than 45 days prior to my employment at LAM.
Signature: Date: -------------------------- ---------------------------------- 12 February 2006 |
Exhibit (p)(6)
Wellington Management Company, llp
Wellington Trust Company, na
Wellington Management International Ltd
Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd.
Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
MESSAGE FROM OUR "THE REPUTATION OF A THOUSAND YEARS MAY BE CEO DETERMINED BY THE CONDUCT OF ONE HOUR." ANCIENT JAPANESE PROVERB We have said it time and again in our Goals, Strategy and Culture statement, "We exist for our clients and are driven by their needs." Wellington Management's reputation is built on this principle. We know that our reputation is our most valuable asset as that reputation attracts clients and promotes their trust and confidence in our firm's capabilities. We entrust our clients' interests and the firm's reputation every day to each Wellington Management employee around the world. Each of us must take constant care that our actions fully meet our duties as fiduciaries for our clients. Our clients' interests must always come first; they cannot and will not be compromised. We have learned through many experiences, that when we put our clients first, we are doing the right thing. If our standards slip, or our focus wanes, we risk the loss of everything we have worked so hard to build together over the years. It is important that we all remember "client, firm, person" is our most fundamental guiding principle. This high ethical standard is embodied in our Code of Ethics. The heart of the Code of Ethics goes to our obligation to remain vigilant in protecting the interests of our clients above our own. We encourage you to become familiar with all facets of the Code and trust that you will embrace and comply with both the letter and the spirit of the Code. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Standards of Conduct 4 Ethical Considerations Regarding Confidentiality 5 Ethical Considerations Regarding Open-end Mutual Fund Transactions 5 Policy on Personal Securities Transactions 6 Covered Accounts 6 Transactions Subject to Pre-clearance and Reporting 8 Requesting Pre-clearance 8 Restrictions on Covered Transactions and Other Restrictions 9 Blackout Periods 9 Short Term Trading 10 Securities of Brokerage Firms 11 Short Sales, Options and Margin Transactions 11 Derivatives 11 Initial Public Offerings ("IPOs") 12 Private Placements 12 ETFs and HOLDRs 12 Transactions Subject to Reporting Only 12 Transactions Exempt from Pre-clearance and Reporting 13 Exemptive Procedure for Personal Trading 14 Reporting and Certification Requirements 14 Initial Holdings Report 15 Duplicate Brokerage Confirmations and Statements 15 Duplicate Annual Statements for Wellington Managed Funds 16 Quarterly Reporting of Transactions and Brokerage Accounts 16 Annual Holdings Report 17 Quarterly Certifications 17 Annual Certifications 18 Review of Reports and Additional Requests 18 Gifts, Travel and Entertainment Opportunities and Sensitive Payments 18 General Principles 18 Accepting Gifts 19 Accepting Travel and Entertainment Opportunities and Tickets 19 Solicitation of Gifts, Contributions, or Sponsorships 21 Giving Gifts (other than Entertainment Opportunities) 22 Giving Entertainment Opportunities 22 Sensitive Payments 23 Other Activities 23 Violations of the Code of Ethics 24 |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
APPENDIX A - APPROVED EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS
APPENDIX B - QUICK REFERENCE TABLE FOR PERSONAL
SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
APPENDIX C - QUICK REFERENCE TABLE FOR GIFTS AND
ENTERTAINMENT
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
STANDARDS OF CONDUCT Wellington Management Company, LLP and its affiliates ("Wellington Management") have a fiduciary duty to investment company and investment counseling clients that requires each Employee to act solely for the benefit of clients. As a firm and as individuals, our conduct (including our personal trading) must recognize that the firm's clients always come first and that we must avoid any abuse of our positions of trust and responsibility. Each Employee is expected to adhere to the highest standard of professional and ethical conduct and should be sensitive to situations that may give rise to an actual conflict or the appearance of a conflict with our clients' interests, or have the potential to cause damage to the firm's reputation. To this end, each Employee must act with integrity, honesty, dignity and in a highly ethical manner. Each Employee is also required to comply with all applicable securities laws. Moreover, each Employee must exercise reasonable care and professional judgment to avoid engaging in actions that put the image of the firm or its reputation at risk. While it is not possible to anticipate all instances of potential conflict or unprofessional conduct, the standard is clear. This Code of Ethics (the "Code") recognizes that our fiduciary obligation extends across all of our affiliates, satisfies our regulatory obligations and sets forth the policy regarding Employee conduct in those situations in which conflicts with our clients' interests are most likely to develop. ALL EMPLOYEES ARE SUBJECT TO THIS CODE AND ADHERENCE TO THE CODE IS A BASIC CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT. IF AN EMPLOYEE HAS ANY DOUBT AS TO THE APPROPRIATENESS OF ANY ACTIVITY, BELIEVES THAT HE OR SHE HAS VIOLATED THE CODE, OR BECOMES AWARE OF A VIOLATION OF THE CODE BY ANOTHER EMPLOYEE, HE OR SHE SHOULD CONSULT TRACY SOEHLE, OUR GLOBAL COMPLIANCE MANAGER, AT 617.790.8149, SELWYN NOTELOVITZ, OUR CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER AT 617.790.8524, CYNTHIA CLARKE, OUR GENERAL COUNSEL AT 617.790.7426, OR LORRAINE KEADY, THE CHAIR OF THE ETHICS COMMITTEE AT 617.951.5020. The Code reflects the requirements of United States law, Rule 17j-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended on August 31, 2004, and Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The term "Employee" for purposes of this Code, includes all Partners and employees worldwide (including temporary personnel compensated directly by Wellington Management and other temporary personnel to the extent that their tenure with Wellington Management exceeds 90 days). |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS CONFIDENTIALITY IS A CORNERSTONE OF WELLINGTON REGARDING CONFIDENTIALITY MANAGEMENT'S FIDUCIARY OBLIGATION TO ITS CLIENTS AS WELL AS AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE FIRM'S CULTURE. Use and Disclosure of Information Information acquired in connection with employment by the organization, including information regarding actual or contemplated investment decisions, portfolio composition, research, research recommendations, firm activities, or client interests, is confidential and may not be used in any way that might be contrary to, or in conflict with the interests of clients or the firm. Employees are reminded that certain clients have specifically required their relationship with our firm to be treated confidentially. Specific reference is made to the firm's Portfolio Holdings Disclosure Policy and Procedures, accessible on the Wellington Management intranet, which addresses the appropriate and authorized disclosure of a client's portfolio holdings. "Inside Information" Specific reference is made to the firm's Statement of Policy on the Receipt and Use of Material, Non-Public Information (i.e., "inside information"), accessible on the Wellington Management intranet, which applies to personal securities transactions as well as to client transactions. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS Wellington Management requires that an Employee REGARDING OPEN-END engaging in mutual fund investments ensure that all MUTUAL FUND TRANSACTIONS investments in open-end mutual funds comply with the funds' rules regarding purchases, redemptions, and exchanges. Wellington Management has a fiduciary relationship with the mutual funds and variable insurance portfolios for which it serves as investment adviser or sub-adviser, including funds organized outside the US ("Wellington Managed Funds"). Accordingly, an Employee may not engage in any activity in Wellington Managed Funds that might be perceived as contrary to or in conflict with the interests of such funds or their shareholders. The Code's personal trading reporting requirements extend to transactions and holdings in Wellington Managed Funds (excluding money market funds). A complete list of the Wellington Managed Funds is available to Employees via the Wellington Management intranet. Please refer to "Reporting and Certification Requirements" for further details. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
POLICY ON PERSONAL All Employees are required to clear their personal SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS securities transactions (as defined below) prior to execution, report their transactions and holdings periodically, and refrain from transacting either in certain types of securities or during certain blackout periods as described in more detail in this section. EMPLOYEES SHOULD NOTE THAT WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT'S POLICIES AND PROCEDURES WITH RESPECT TO PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS ALSO APPLY TO TRANSACTIONS BY A SPOUSE, DOMESTIC PARTNER, CHILD OR OTHER IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBER RESIDING IN THE SAME HOUSEHOLD AS THE EMPLOYEE. COVERED ACCOUNTS Definition of "Personal Securities Transactions" A personal securities transaction is a transaction in which an Employee has a beneficial interest. Definition of "Beneficial Interest" An Employee is considered to have a beneficial interest in any transaction in which the Employee has the opportunity to directly or indirectly profit or share in the profit derived from the securities transacted. An Employee is presumed to have a beneficial interest in, and therefore an obligation to pre-clear and report, the following: 1 Securities owned by an Employee in his or her name. 2 Securities owned by an individual Employee indirectly through an account or investment vehicle for his or her benefit, such as an IRA, family trust or family partnership. 3 Securities owned in which the Employee has a joint ownership interest, such as property owned in a joint brokerage account. 4 Securities in which a member of the Employee's immediate family (e.g., spouse, domestic partner, minor children and other dependent relatives) has a direct, |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
indirect or joint ownership interest if the immediate family member resides in the same household as the Employee. 5 Securities owned by trusts, private foundations or other charitable accounts for which the Employee has investment discretion (other than client accounts of the firm). If an Employee believes that he or she does not have a beneficial interest in the securities listed above, the Employee should provide the Global Compliance Group (the "Compliance Group") with satisfactory documentation that the Employee has no beneficial interest in the security and exercises no control over investment decisions made regarding the security (see "Exceptions" below). Any question as to whether an Employee has a beneficial interest in a transaction, and therefore an obligation to pre-clear and report the transaction, should be directed to the Compliance Group. Exceptions If an Employee has a beneficial interest in an account which the Employee feels should not be subject to the Code's pre-clearance and reporting requirements, the Employee should submit a written request for clarification or an exemption to the Global Compliance Manager. The request should name the account, describe the nature of the Employee's interest in the account, the person or firm responsible for managing the account, and the basis upon which the exemption is being claimed. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. An example of a situation where grounds for an exemption may be present is an account in which the Employee has no influence or control (e.g., the Employee has a professionally managed account over which the Employee has given up discretion. In all transactions involving such an account an Employee should, however, conform to the spirit of the Code and avoid any activity which might appear to conflict with the interests of the firm's clients, or with the Employee's position within Wellington Management. In this regard, please refer to the "Ethical Considerations Regarding Confidentiality" section of this Code. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
TRANSACTIONS SUBJECT TO PRE-CLEARANCE AND REPORTING "COVERED TRANSACTIONS" ALL EMPLOYEES MUST CLEAR THEIR PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS PRIOR TO EXECUTION, EXCEPT AS SPECIFICALLY EXEMPTED IN SUBSEQUENT SECTIONS OF THE CODE. CLEARANCE FOR PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS FOR PUBLICLY TRADED SECURITIES WILL BE IN EFFECT FOR 24 HOURS FROM THE TIME OF APPROVAL. TRANSACTIONS IN THE FOLLOWING SECURITIES ARE "COVERED TRANSACTIONS" AND THEREFORE MUST BE PRE-CLEARED AND REPORTED: - bonds (including municipal bonds) - stock (including shares of closed-end funds and funds organized outside the US that have a structure similar to that of closed-end funds) - exchange-traded funds not listed on Appendix A - notes - convertibles - preferreds - ADRs - single stock futures - limited partnership and limited liability company interests (for example, hedge funds not sponsored by Wellington Management or an affiliate) - options on securities - warrants, rights, etc., whether publicly traded or privately placed See Appendix B for a summary of securities subject to pre-clearance and reporting, securities subject to reporting only, and securities exempt from pre-clearance and reporting. REQUESTING PRE-CLEARANCE Pre-clearance for Covered Transactions must be obtained by submitting a request via the intranet-based Code of Ethics Compliance System ("COEC"). Approval must be obtained prior to placing the trade with a broker. An Employee is responsible for ensuring that the proposed transaction does not violate Wellington Management's policies or applicable securities laws and regulations by virtue of the Employee's responsibilities at Wellington Management or the information that he or she may possess about the securities or the issuer. The Compliance Group will maintain confidential records of all requests for approval. Covered Transactions offered through a participation in a private placement (including both securities and partnership interests) are |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
subject to special clearance by the Chief Compliance Officer or the General Counsel or their designees, and the clearance will remain in effect for a reasonable period thereafter, not to exceed 90 days (See, "Private Placements"). An Employee wishing to seek an exemption from the pre-clearance requirement for a security or instrument not covered by an exception (see below) that has similar characteristics to an excepted security or transaction should submit a request in writing to the Global Compliance Manager. RESTRICTIONS ON COVERED TRANSACTIONS AND OTHER RESTRICTIONS ON PERSONAL TRADING Covered Transactions are restricted and will be denied pre-clearance under the circumstances described below. Please note that the following restrictions on Covered Transactions apply equally to the Covered Transaction and to instruments related to the Covered Transaction. A related instrument is any security or instrument issued by the same entity as the issuer of the Covered Transaction, including options, rights, warrants, preferred stock, bonds and other obligations of that issuer or instruments otherwise convertible into securities of that issuer. THE RESTRICTIONS AND BLACKOUT PERIODS PRESCRIBED BELOW ARE DESIGNED TO AVOID CONFLICT WITH OUR CLIENTS' INTERESTS. HOWEVER, PATTERNS OF TRADING THAT MEET THE LETTER OF THE RESTRICTIONS BUT ARE INTENDED TO CIRCUMVENT THE RESTRICTIONS ARE ALSO PROHIBITED. IT IS EXPECTED THAT EMPLOYEES WILL COMPLY WITH THE RESTRICTIONS BELOW IN GOOD FAITH AND CONDUCT THEIR PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS IN KEEPING WITH THE INTENDED PURPOSE OF THIS CODE. 1 Blackout Periods No Employee may engage in Covered Transactions involving securities or instruments which the Employee knows are actively contemplated for transactions on behalf of clients, even though no buy or sell orders have been placed. This restriction applies from the moment that an Employee has been informed in any fashion that any Portfolio Manager intends to purchase or sell a specific security or instrument. This is a particularly sensitive area and one in which each Employee must exercise caution to avoid actions which, to his or her knowledge, are in conflict or in competition with the interests of clients. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
Employee Blackout Periods An Employee will be denied pre-clearance for Covered Transactions that are: - being bought or sold on behalf of clients until one trading day after such buying or selling is completed or canceled; - the subject of a new or changed action recommendation from a research analyst until 10 business days following the issuance of such recommendation; - the subject of a re-issued but unchanged recommendation from a research analyst until 2 business days following re-issuance of the recommendation. Portfolio Manager Additional Blackout Period In addition to the above, an Employee who is a Portfolio Manager may not engage in a personal transaction involving any security for 7 calendar days prior to, and 7 calendar days following, a transaction in the same security for a client account managed by that Portfolio Manager without a special exemption. See "Exemptive Procedures for Personal Trading" below. Portfolio Managers include all designated portfolio managers and other investment professionals that have portfolio management responsibilities for client accounts or who have direct authority to make investment decisions to buy or sell securities, such as investment team members and analysts involved in Research Equity portfolios. 2 Short Term Trading No Employee may take a "short term trading" profit with respect to a Covered Transaction, which means a sale, closing of a short position or expiration of an option at a gain within 60 calendar days of its purchase (beginning on trade date plus one), without a special exemption. See "Exemptive Procedures for Personal Trading" on page 14. The 60-day trading prohibition does not apply to transactions resulting in a loss. An Employee engaging in mutual fund investments must ensure that all investments and transactions in open-end mutual funds, including funds organized outside the US, comply with the funds' rules regarding purchases, redemptions, and exchanges. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
3 Securities of Brokerage Firms An Employee engaged in Global Trading and an Employee with portfolio management responsibility for client accounts may not engage in personal transactions involving any equity or debt securities of any company whose primary business is that of a broker/dealer. A company is deemed to be in the primary business as a broker/dealer if it derives more than 15 percent of its gross revenues from broker/dealer related activities. 4 Short Sales, Options and Margin Transactions THE CODE STRONGLY DISCOURAGES SHORT SALES, OPTIONS AND MARGIN TRANSACTIONS. Subject to pre-clearance, an Employee may engage in short sales, options and margin transactions, however, an Employee engaging in such transactions should recognize the danger of being "frozen" or subject to a forced close out because of the general restrictions that apply to personal transactions as noted above. These types of activities are risky not only because of the nature of the transactions, but also because action necessary to close out a position may become prohibited under the Code while the position remains open. FOR EXAMPLE, YOU MAY NOT BE ABLE TO CLOSE OUT SHORT SALES AND TRANSACTIONS IN DERIVATIVES. In specific cases of hardship, an exception may be granted by the Chief Compliance Officer or the General Counsel with respect to an otherwise "frozen" transaction. Particular attention should be paid to margin transactions. An Employee should understand that brokers of such transactions generally have the authority to automatically sell securities in the Employee's brokerage account to cover a margin call. Such sale transactions will be in violation of the Code unless they are pre-cleared. An Employee engaging in margin transactions should not expect that exceptions will be granted after the fact for these violations. 5 Derivatives Transactions in derivative instruments shall be restricted in the same manner as the underlying security. An Employee engaging in derivative transactions should also recognize the danger of being "frozen" or subject to a forced close out because of the general restrictions that apply to personal transactions as described in more detail in paragraph 4 above. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
6 Initial Public Offerings ("IPOs") No Employee may engage in personal transactions involving the direct purchase of any security (debt or equity) in an IPO (including initial offerings of closed-end funds). This restriction also includes new issues resulting from spin-offs, municipal securities, and thrift conversions, although in limited cases the purchase of such securities in an offering may be approved by the Chief Compliance Officer or the General Counsel upon determining that approval would not violate any policy reflected in this Code. This restriction does not apply to initial offerings of open-end mutual funds, US government issues or money market instruments. 7 Private Placements AN EMPLOYEE MAY NOT PURCHASE SECURITIES IN A PRIVATE PLACEMENT TRANSACTION (INCLUDING HEDGE FUNDS THAT ARE NOT SPONSORED BY WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT OR ONE OF ITS AFFILIATES) UNLESS APPROVAL OF THE CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER, THE GENERAL COUNSEL OR THEIR RESPECTIVE DESIGNEES HAS BEEN OBTAINED. This approval will be based upon a determination that the investment opportunity need not be reserved for clients, that the Employee is not being offered the investment opportunity due to his or her employment with Wellington Management, and other relevant factors on a case-by-case basis. 8 Exchange Traded Funds ("ETFs") and HOLDRs AN EMPLOYEE MAY NOT TRANSACT IN HOLDRS. Transactions in exchange traded funds are permitted. However, transactions in exchange traded funds not listed on Appendix A are Covered Transactions that must be pre-cleared and reported. Transactions in exchange traded funds listed on Appendix A are not Covered Transactions and accordingly, are not subject to pre-clearance or reporting. TRANSACTIONS SUBJECT TO REPORTING ONLY (NO NEED TO PRE-CLEAR) Pre-clearance is not required, but reporting is required for transactions in: 1 Open-end mutual funds and variable insurance products that are managed by Wellington Management or any of its affiliates, INCLUDING FUNDS ORGANIZED OUTSIDE THE US THAT HAVE A STRUCTURE SIMILAR TO THAT OF OPEN-END MUTUAL FUNDS, |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
if held outside of the Wellington Retirement and Pension Plan ("WRPP"). A list of Wellington Managed Funds is available via the Wellington Management intranet. 2 Non-volitional transactions to include: - automatic dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plan acquisitions; - transactions that result from a corporate action applicable to all similar security holders (such as splits, tender offers, mergers, stock dividends, etc.). 3 Gift transactions to include: - gifts of securities to an Employee if the Employee has no control of the timing; - gifts of securities from an Employee to an individual so long as the recipient of the gift confirms in writing that the recipient has no present intention to sell the securities received from the Employee; - gifts of securities from an Employee to a not-for-profit organization. For this purpose, a not-for-profit organization includes only those trusts and other entities exclusively for the benefit of one or more not-for-profit organizations and does not include so-called split interest trusts (no writing is required); - gifts of securities from an Employee to other trusts or investment vehicles, including charitable lead trusts, charitable remainder trusts, family partnerships and family trusts, so long as the recipient of the gift confirms in writing that the recipient has no present intention to sell the securities received from the Employee. Even if the gift of a security from an Employee does not require pre-clearance under these rules, a subsequent sale of the security by the recipient of the gift must be pre-cleared and reported IF the Employee is deemed to have a beneficial interest in the security (for example, if the Employee has investment discretion over the recipient or the recipient is a family member living in the same house as the Employee). TRANSACTIONS EXEMPT FROM PRE-CLEARANCE AND REPORTING Pre-clearance and reporting is not required for transactions in: - US government securities - Exchange Traded Funds listed in Appendix A - money market instruments |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
- Collective Investment Funds sponsored by Wellington Trust Company, na ("trust company pools") - hedge funds sponsored by Wellington Management or any of its affiliates - broad-based stock index and US government securities futures and options on such futures - commodities futures - currency futures - open-end mutual funds and variable insurance products, including funds organized outside the US with a structure similar to that of an open-end mutual fund, that are not managed by Wellington Management or any of its affiliates EXEMPTIVE PROCEDURE In cases of hardship, the Chief Compliance Officer, FOR PERSONAL TRADING Global Compliance Manager, the General Counsel, or their respective designees can grant exemptions from the personal trading restrictions in this Code. The decision will be based on a determination that a hardship exists and the transaction for which an exemption is requested would not result in a conflict with our clients' interests or violate any other policy embodied in this Code. Other factors that may be considered include: the size and holding period of the Employee's position in the security, the market capitalization of the issuer, the liquidity of the security, the amount and timing of client trading in the same or a related security, and other relevant factors. Any Employee seeking an exemption should submit a written request to the Chief Compliance Officer, Global Compliance Manager or the General Counsel, setting forth the nature of the hardship along with any pertinent facts and reasons why the employee believes that the exemption should be granted. Employees are cautioned that exemptions are intended to be exceptions, and repetitive requests for exemptions by an Employee are not likely to be granted. Records of the approval of exemptions and the reasons for granting exemptions will be maintained by the Compliance Group. REPORTING AND Records of personal securities transactions by CERTIFICATION Employees and their immediate family members will be REQUIREMENTS maintained. All Employees are subject to the following reporting and certification requirements: |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
1 Initial Holdings Report New Employees are required to file an Initial Holdings Report and a Disciplinary Action Disclosure form within ten (10) calendar days of joining the firm. New Employees must disclose all of their security holdings in Covered Transactions including private placement securities, and Wellington Managed Funds, at this time. New Employees are also required to disclose all of their brokerage accounts or other accounts holding Wellington Managed Funds (including IRA Accounts, 529 Plans, custodial accounts and 401K Plans outside of WRPP) at that time, even if the only securities held in such accounts are mutual funds. Personal trading is prohibited until these reports are filed. The forms can be filed via the COEC that is accessible on the Wellington Management intranet. PLEASE NOTE THAT YOU DO NOT NEED TO REPORT MUTUAL FUNDS OR TRUST COMPANY POOLS HELD WITHIN THE WRPP (THIS INFORMATION WILL BE OBTAINED FROM THE WRPP ADMINISTRATOR); AND YOU NEED NOT REPORT WELLINGTON MANAGED FUNDS THAT ARE MONEY MARKET FUNDS. 2 Duplicate Brokerage Confirmations and Statements for Covered Transactions Employees may place securities transactions with the broker of their choosing. All Employees must require their securities brokers to send duplicate confirmations of their Covered Transactions and quarterly account statements to the Compliance Group. Brokerage firms are accustomed to providing this service. To arrange for the delivery of duplicate confirmations and quarterly statements, each Employee must complete a Duplicate Confirmation Request Form for each brokerage account that is used for personal securities transactions of the Employee and each account in which the Employee has a beneficial interest and return the form to the Compliance Group. The form can be obtained from the Compliance Group. The form must be completed and returned to the Compliance Group prior to any transactions being placed with the broker. The Compliance Group will process the request with the broker in order to assure delivery of the confirmations and quarterly statements directly to the Compliance Group and to preserve the confidentiality of this information. When possible, the duplicate confirmation requirement will be satisfied by |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
electronic means. Employees should not send the completed forms to their brokers directly. If under local market practice, brokers are not willing to deliver duplicate confirmations and/or quarterly statements to the Compliance Group, it is the Employee's responsibility to provide promptly the Compliance Group with a duplicate confirmation (either a photocopy or facsimile) for each trade and quarterly statement. 3 Duplicate Annual Statements for Wellington Managed Funds. Employees must provide duplicate Annual Statements to the Compliance Group with respect to their holdings in Wellington Managed Funds. 4 Quarterly Reporting of Transactions and Brokerage Accounts SEC rules require that a quarterly record of all personal securities transactions be submitted by each person subject to the Code's requirements within 30 calendar days after the end of each calendar quarter and that this record be available for inspection. To comply with these SEC rules, every Employee must file a quarterly personal securities transaction report electronically utilizing the COEC accessible to all Employees via the Wellington Management intranet by this deadline. AT THE END OF EACH CALENDAR QUARTER, EMPLOYEES WILL BE REMINDED OF THE SEC FILING REQUIREMENT. AN EMPLOYEE THAT FAILS TO FILE WITHIN THE SEC'S 30 CALENDAR DAY DEADLINE WILL, AT A MINIMUM, BE PROHIBITED FROM ENGAGING IN PERSONAL TRADING UNTIL THE REQUIRED FILINGS ARE MADE AND MAY GIVE RISE TO OTHER SANCTIONS. Transactions during the quarter as periodically entered via the COEC by the Employee are displayed on the Employee's reporting screen and must be affirmed if they are accurate. Holdings not acquired through a broker and certain holdings that were not subject to pre-clearance (as described below) must also be entered by the Employee. ALL EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT A QUARTERLY REPORT, EVEN IF THERE WERE NO REPORTABLE TRANSACTIONS DURING THE QUARTER. THE QUARTERLY REPORT MUST INCLUDE TRANSACTION INFORMATION REGARDING: |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
- all Covered Transactions (as defined on page 8); - all Wellington Managed Funds (as defined on page 5); - any new brokerage account established during the quarter including the name of the broker, dealer or bank and the date the account was established; - non-volitional transactions (as described on page 13); and - gift transactions (as described on page 13). Transactions in Wellington Managed Funds and non-volitional transactions must be reported even though pre-clearance is not required. For non-volitional transactions, the nature of the transaction must be clearly specified in the report. Non-volitional transactions include automatic dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plan acquisitions, gifts of securities to and from the Employee, and transactions that result from corporate actions applicable to all similar security holders (such as splits, tender offers, mergers, stock dividends). 5 Annual Holdings Report SEC Rules also require that each Employee file, on an annual basis, a schedule indicating their personal securities holdings as of December 31 of each year by the following February 14th. SEC Rules require that this report include the title, number of shares and principal amount of each security held in an Employee's personal account and the accounts for which the Employee has a beneficial interest, and the name of any broker, dealer or bank with whom the Employee maintains an account. "Securities" for purposes of this report are Covered Transactions, Wellington Managed Funds and those that must be reported as indicated in the prior section. Employees are also required to disclose all of their brokerage accounts at this time, even if the only securities held in such accounts are mutual funds. 6 Quarterly Certifications As part of the quarterly reporting process on the COEC, Employees are required to confirm their compliance with the provisions of this Code of Ethics. In addition, each Employee is also required to identify any issuer for which the Employee owns more than 0.5% of the outstanding securities. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
7 Annual Certifications As part of the annual reporting process on the COEC, each Employee is required to certify that: - The Employee has read the Code and understands its terms and requirements; - The Employee has complied with the Code during the course of his or her association with the firm; - The Employee has disclosed and reported all personal securities transactions and brokerage accounts required to be disclosed or reported; - The Employee will continue to comply with the Code in the future; - The Employee will promptly report to the Compliance Group, the General Counsel, or the Chair of the Ethics Committee any violation or possible violation of the Code of which the Employee becomes aware; and - The Employee understands that a violation of the Code may be grounds for disciplinary action or termination and may also be a violation of federal and/or state securities laws. 8 Review of Reports and Additional Requests All reports filed in accordance with this section will be maintained and kept confidential by the Compliance Group. Such reports will be reviewed by the Chief Compliance Officer or his/her designee. The firm may request other reports and certifications from Employees as may be deemed necessary to comply with applicable regulations and industry best practices. GIFTS, TRAVEL AND Occasionally, an Employee may be offered gifts or ENTERTAINMENT entertainment opportunities by clients, brokers, OPPORTUNITIES, AND vendors or other organizations with whom the firm SENSITIVE PAYMENTS transacts business. The giving and receiving of gifts and opportunities to travel and attend entertainment events from such sources are subject to the general principles outlined below and are permitted only under the circumstances specified in this section of the Code. 1 GENERAL PRINCIPLES APPLICABLE TO GIFTS, TRAVEL AND ENTERTAINMENT OPPORTUNITIES, AND SENSITIVE PAYMENTS - An Employee cannot give or accept a gift or participate in an entertainment opportunity if the frequency and/or value of the gift or entertainment opportunity may be considered excessive or extravagant. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
- An Employee cannot give or receive a gift, travel and entertainment opportunity or sensitive payment if, in doing so, it would create or appear to create a conflict with the interests of our clients or the firm, or have a detrimental impact on the firm's reputation. - With regard to gifts and entertainment opportunities covered and permitted under the Code, under no circumstances is it acceptable for an Employee to resell a gift or ticket to an entertainment event. 2 ACCEPTING GIFTS The only gift (other than entertainment tickets) that may be accepted by an Employee is a gift of nominal value (i.e. a gift whose reasonable value is no more than $100) and promotional items (e.g. pens, mugs, t-shirts and other logo bearing items). Under no circumstances may an Employee accept a gift of cash, including a cash equivalent such as a gift certificate, bond, security or other items that may be readily converted to cash. Acceptance of a gift that is directed to Wellington Management as a firm should be cleared with the Employee's Business Manager. Such a gift, if approved, will be accepted on behalf of, and treated as the property of, the firm. If an Employee receives a gift that is prohibited under the Code, it must be declined or returned in order to protect the reputation and integrity of Wellington Management. Any question as to the appropriateness of any gift should be directed to the Chief Compliance Officer, the General Counsel or the Chair of the Ethics Committee. 3 ACCEPTING TRAVEL AND ENTERTAINMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND TICKETS Wellington Management recognizes that occasional participation in entertainment opportunities with representatives from organizations with whom the firm transacts business, such as clients, brokers, vendors or other organizations, can be useful relationship building exercises. Examples of such entertainment opportunities are: lunches, dinners, cocktail parties, golf outings or regular season sporting events. Accordingly, OCCASIONAL participation by an Employee in such entertainment opportunities for legitimate business purposes is permitted provided that: |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
- a representative from the hosting organization attends the event with the Employee; - the primary purpose of the event is to discuss business or build a business relationship; - the Employee demonstrates high standards of personal behavior; - participation complies with the following requirements for entertainment tickets, lodging, car and limousine services, and air travel. ENTERTAINMENT TICKETS An Employee occasionally may accept ONE TICKET to an entertainment event ONLY IF THE HOST WILL ATTEND THE EVENT WITH THE EMPLOYEE AND THE FACE VALUE OF THE TICKET OR ENTRANCE FEE IS $200 OR LESS, not including the value of food that may be provided to the Employee before, during, or after the event. An Employee is required to obtain prior approval from his or her Business Manager before accepting any other entertainment opportunity. An Employee is strongly discouraged from participating in the following situations and may not participate unless prior approval from his/her Business Manager is obtained: - the entertainment ticket has a face value above $200; if approved by a Business Manager, the Employee is required to reimburse the host for the full face value of the ticket; - the Employee wants to accept more than one ticket; if approved by a Business Manager, the Employee is required to reimburse the host for the aggregate face value of the tickets regardless of each ticket's face value; - the entertainment event is unusual or high profile (e.g., a major sporting event); if approved by a Business Manager, the Employee is required to reimburse the host for the full face value of the ticket regardless of what the face value might be; - the host has extended an invitation to the entertainment event to numerous Employees. Business Managers must clear their own participation in the above situations with the Chief Compliance Officer or Chair of the Ethics Committee. EACH EMPLOYEE MUST FAMILIARIZE HIMSELF/HERSELF WITH, AND ADHERE TO, ANY ADDITIONAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES REGARDING ENTERTAINMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND TICKETS THAT MAY BE ENFORCED BY HIS/HER BUSINESS MANAGER. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
LODGING An Employee is not permitted to accept a gift of lodging in connection with any entertainment opportunity. Rather, an Employee must pay for his/her own lodging expense in connection with any entertainment opportunity. If an Employee participates in an entertainment opportunity for which lodging is arranged and paid for by the host, the Employee must reimburse the host for the equivalent cost of the lodging, as determined by Wellington Management's Travel Manager. It is the Employee's responsibility to ensure that the host accepts the reimbursement and whenever possible, arrange for reimbursement prior to attending the entertainment event. Lodging connected to an Employee's business travel will be paid for by Wellington. CAR AND LIMOUSINE SERVICES An Employee must exercise reasonable judgment with respect to accepting rides in limousines and with car services. Except where circumstances warrant (e.g., where safety is a concern), an Employee is discouraged from accepting limousine and car services paid for by a host when the host is not present. AIR TRAVEL An Employee is not permitted to accept a gift of air travel in connection with any entertainment opportunity. Rather, an Employee must pay for his/her own air travel expense in connection with any entertainment opportunity. If an Employee participates in an entertainment opportunity for which air travel is arranged and paid for by the host, the Employee must reimburse the host for the equivalent cost of the air travel, as determined by Wellington Management's Travel Manager. It is the Employee's responsibility to ensure that the host accepts the reimbursement and whenever possible, arrange for reimbursement prior to attending the entertainment event. Use of private aircraft or charter flights arranged by the host for entertainment related travel is prohibited. Air travel that is connected to an Employee's business travel will be paid for by Wellington Management. 4 SOLICITATION OF GIFTS, CONTRIBUTIONS, OR SPONSORSHIPS An Employee may not solicit gifts, entertainment tickets, gratuities, contributions (including charitable contributions), or sponsorships from brokers, vendors, clients or companies in which the firm invests or conducts research. Similarly, an Employee is prohibited from making such requests through Wellington Management's Trading Department or any other Wellington |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
Management Department or employee (this prohibition does not extend to personal gifts or offers of Employee owned tickets between Employees). 5 GIVING GIFTS (other than Entertainment Opportunities) In appropriate circumstances, it may be acceptable for the firm or its Employees to extend gifts to clients or others who do business with Wellington Management. Gifts of cash (including cash equivalents such as gift certificates, bonds, securities or other items that may be readily converted to cash) or excessive or extravagant gifts, as measured by the total value or quantity of the gift(s), are prohibited. Gifts with a face value in excess of $100 must be cleared by the Employee's Business Manager. An Employee should be certain that the gift does not give rise to a conflict with client interests, or the appearance of a conflict, and that there is no reason to believe that the gift violates any applicable code of conduct of the recipient. Gifts are permitted only when made in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, and in accordance with generally accepted business practices in the various countries and jurisdictions where Wellington Management does business. 6 GIVING ENTERTAINMENT OPPORTUNITIES An Employee is not permitted to source tickets to entertainment events from Wellington Management's Trading Department or any other Wellington Management Department or employee, brokers, vendors, or other organizations with whom the firm transacts business (this prohibition does not extend to personal gifts or offers of Employee owned tickets between Employees). Similarly, an Employee is prohibited from sourcing tickets on behalf of clients or prospects from ticket vendors. CLIENT EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT ORGANIZED, HOSTED AND ATTENDED BY ONE OR MORE WELLINGTON MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES ARE NOT SUBJECT TO THIS PROHIBITION AND ARE OUTSIDE THE SCOPE OF THIS CODE. 7 SENSITIVE PAYMENTS An Employee may not participate on behalf of the firm, a subsidiary, or any client, directly or indirectly, in any of the following transactions: |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
- Use of the firm's name or funds to support political candidates or issues, or elected or appointed government officials; - Payment or receipt of bribes, kickbacks, or payment or receipt of any money in violation of any law applicable to the transaction; - Payments to government officials or government employees that are unlawful or otherwise not in accordance with regulatory rules and generally accepted business practices of the governing jurisdiction. An Employee making contributions or payments of any kind may do so in his/her capacity as an individual, but may not use or in any way associate Wellington Management's name with such contributions or payments (except as may be required under applicable law). Employees should be mindful of these general principals when making donations to charities sponsored by clients. 8 QUESTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS Any question as to the appropriateness of gifts, travel and entertainment opportunities, or payments should be discussed with the Chief Compliance Officer, Global Compliance Manager, the General Counsel, or the Chair of the Ethics Committee. OTHER ACTIVITIES Outside Activities All outside business affiliations (e.g., directorships, officerships or trusteeships) of any kind or membership in investment organizations (e.g., an investment club) must be approved by an Employee's Business Manager and cleared by the Chief Compliance Officer, the General Counsel or the Chair of the Ethics Committee prior to the acceptance of such a position to ensure that such affiliations do not present a conflict with our clients' interests. New Employees are required to disclose all outside business affiliations to their Business Manager upon joining the firm. As a general matter, directorships in public companies or companies that may reasonably be expected to become public companies will not be authorized because of the potential for conflicts that may impede our freedom to act in the best interests of clients. Service with charitable organizations generally will be authorized, subject to considerations related to time required during working hours, use of proprietary information and disclosure of potential conflicts of interest. Employees who engage in outside business and charitable activities are not acting in their capacity as employees of Wellington Management and may not use Wellington Management's name. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
Outside Employment Employees who are officers of the firm may not seek additional employment outside of Wellington Management without the prior written approval of the Human Resources Department. All new Employees are required to disclose any outside employment to the Human Resources Department upon joining the firm. VIOLATIONS OF THE COMPLIANCE WITH THE CODE IS EXPECTED AND VIOLATIONS CODE OF ETHICS OF ITS PROVISIONS ARE TAKEN SERIOUSLY. Employees must recognize that the Code is a condition of employment with the firm and a serious violation of the Code or related policies may result in dismissal. Since many provisions of the Code also reflect provisions of the US securities laws, Employees should be aware that violations could also lead to regulatory enforcement action resulting in suspension or expulsion from the securities business, fines and penalties, and imprisonment. The Compliance Group is responsible for monitoring compliance with the Code. Violations or potential violations of the Code will be considered by some combination of the Chief Compliance Officer, the General Counsel, the Chair of the Ethics Committee and the Vice Chair of the Ethics Committee, who will jointly decide if the violation or potential violation should be discussed with the Ethics Committee, the Employee's Business Manager, and/or the firm's senior management. Further, a violation or potential violation of the Code by an Associate or Partner of the firm will be discussed with the Managing Partners. Sanctions for a violation of the Code may be determined by the Ethics Committee, the Employee's Business Manager, senior management, or the Managing Partners depending on the Employee's position at the firm and the nature of the violation. Transactions that violate the Code's personal trading restrictions will presumptively be subject to being reversed and any profit realized from the position disgorged, unless the Employee establishes to the satisfaction of the Ethics Committee that under the particular circumstances disgorgement would be an unreasonable remedy for the violation. If disgorgement is required, the proceeds shall be paid to any client disadvantaged by the transaction, or to a charitable organization, as determined by the Ethics Committee. Violations of the Code's reporting and certification requirements will result in a suspension of personal trading privileges and may give rise to other sanctions. |
Wellington Management Company, llp Wellington Trust Company, na Wellington Management International Ltd Wellington International Management Company Pte Ltd Wellington Global Investment Management Ltd
CODE OF ETHICS
FURTHER INFORMATION Questions regarding interpretation of this Code or questions related to specific situations should be directed to the Chief Compliance Officer, the General Counsel or the Chair of the Ethics Committee. Revised: January 1, 2005 |
APPENDIX A
APPROVED EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS
(ETFs Approved for Personal Trading Without Pre-Clearance and Reporting Requirements)
SYMBOL NAME ------ ---- RSP Rydex S&P Equal Weighted Index DGT streetTRACKS Dow Jones US Global Titan DSG streetTRACKS Dow Jones US Small Cap Growth DSV streetTRACKS Dow Jones US Small Cap Value ELG streetTRACKS Dow Jones US Large Cap Growth ELV streetTRACKS Dow Jones US Large Cap Value FFF streetTRACKS FORTUNE 500 Index GLD streetTRACKS Gold Shares LQD iShares Goldman Sachs $ InvesTop Corporate Bond SHY iShares Lehman 1-3 Year Treasury IEF iShares Lehman 7-10 Year Treasury TLT iShares Lehman 20+ Year Treasury TIP iShares Lehman TIPs AGG iShares Lehman Aggregate EFA iShares MSCI EAFE EEM iShares MSCI Emerging Markets NY iShares NYSE 100 NYC iShares NYSE Composite IJH iShares S&P MidCap 400 Index Fund IJJ iShares S&P Midcap 400/BARRA Value IJK iShares S&P Midcap 400/BARRA Growth IJR iShares S&P SmallCap 600 Index Fund IJS iShares S&P SmallCap 600/BARRA Value IJT iShares S&P SmallCap 600/BARRA Growth IOO iShares S&P Global 100 OEF iShares S&P 100 Index Fund ISI iShares S&P 1500 IVE iShares S&P 500/BARRA Value Index Fund IVV iShares S&P 500 Index Fund IVW iShares S&P 500/BARRA Growth Index Fund IWB iShares Russell 1000 Index Fund IWD iShares Russell 1000 Value Index Fund IWF iShares Russell 1000 Growth Index Fund IWM iShares Russell 2000 IWN iShares Russell 2000 Value IWO iShares Russell 2000 Growth IWP iShares Russell Midcap Growth IWR iShares Russell Midcap IWS iShares Russell Midcap Value IWV iShares Russell 3000 Index Fund IWW iShares Russell 3000 Value IWZ iShares Russell 3000 Growth IYY iShares Dow Jones U.S. Total Market Index Fund JKD iShares Morningstar Large Core |
APPENDIX A
APPROVED EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS
(ETFs Approved for Personal Trading Without Pre-Clearance and Reporting Requirements)
SYMBOL NAME ------ ---- JKE iShares Morningstar Large Growth JKF iShares Morningstar Large Value JKG iShares Morningstar Mid Core JKH iShares Morningstar Mid Growth JKI iShares Morningstar Mid Value JKJ iShares Morningstar Small Core JKK iShares Morningstar Small Growth JKL iShares Morningstar Small Value VB Vanguard Small Cap VIPERs VBK Vanguard Small Cap Growth VIPERs VBR Vanguard Small Cap Value VIPERs VO Vanguard MidCap VIPERs VTI Vanguard Total Stock Market VIPERs VTV Vanguard Value VIPERs VUG Vanguard Growth VIPERs VXF Vanguard Extended Market VIPERs VV Vanguard Large Cap VIPERs |
This appendix may be amended at the discretion of the Ethics Committee.
Dated January 1, 2006
Personal Securities Transactions Appendix B
YOU MUST PRE-CLEAR AND REPORT THE FOLLOWING TRANSACTIONS:
Bonds (Including Government Agency Bonds, but excluding Direct Obligations of
the U.S. Government)
Municipal Bonds
Stock
Closed-end Funds
Exchange Traded Funds not listed in Appendix A*
Notes
Convertible Securities
Preferred Securities
ADRs
Single Stock Futures
Limited Partnership Interests (including hedge funds NOT managed by WMC)
Limited Liability Company Interests (including hedge funds NOT managed by WMC)
Options on Securities
Warrants
Rights
YOU MUST REPORT (BUT NOT PRE-CLEAR) THE FOLLOWING TRANSACTIONS:
Automatic Dividend Reinvestment
Stock Purchase Plan Acquisitions
Corporate Actions (splits, tender offers, mergers, stock dividends, etc.)
Open-end Mutual Funds (other than money market funds) and variable insurance
products advised or sub-advised by WMC, including offshore funds
("Wellington Managed Funds")
Transactions in the following ETFs: DIA, QQQQ, SPY, MDY*
Gifts of securities to you over which you did not control the timing
Gifts of securities from you to a not-for-profit organization, including a
private foundation and donor advised fund
Gifts of securities from you to an individual or donee other than a
not-for-profit if the individual or donee represents that he/she has no present
intention of selling the security
YOU DO NOT NEED TO PRE-CLEAR OR REPORT THE FOLLOWING TRANSACTIONS:
Open-end Mutual Funds not managed by WMC
Offshore Funds not managed by WMC
Variable Insurance Products not managed by WMC
ETFs listed on Appendix A
Direct Obligations of the U.S. Government (including obligations issued by GNMA
& PEFCO)
Money Market Instruments
Wellington Trust Company Pools
Wellington Sponsored Hedge Funds
Broad based Stock Index Futures and Options
Securities Futures and Options on Direct Obligations of the U.S. Government
Commodities Futures
Foreign Currency Transactions
* Effective January 1, 2006 DIA, QQQQ, SPY and MDY are not on Appendix A. The Chief Compliance Officer and the General Counsel have granted an exemption to the pre-clearance requirement for these ETFs, but transactions in these ETFs need to be reported as part of your quarterly reporting.
Personal Securities Transactions Appendix B
PROHIBITED TRANSACTIONS:
HOLDRS
Initial Public Offerings ("IPOs")
This appendix may be amended at the discretion of the Ethics Committee
Dated February 17, 2006
* Effective January 1, 2006 DIA, QQQQ, SPY and MDY are not on Appendix A. The Chief Compliance Officer and the General Counsel have granted an exemption to the pre-clearance requirement for these ETFs, but transactions in these ETFs need to be reported as part of your quarterly reporting.
Gifts and Entertainment Appendix C
PERMITTED RESTRICTIONS --------------------------------- --------------------------------- ACCEPTING AN INDIVIDUAL Gifts with a value of $100 or Gifts of cash, gift certificates GIFT less are generally permitted. or other item readily convertible to cash cannot be accepted. Gifts valued at over $100 cannot be accepted. ACCEPTING A FIRM GIFT Employee's Business Manager must approve prior to accepting. ACCEPTING ENTERTAINMENT Permissible only if participation Discouraged from accepting ticket OPPORTUNITIES AND TICKETS is occasional, host is present, or entrance fee with face value event has a legitimate business over $200, more than one ticket, purpose, ticket or entrance fee ticket to high profile or unusual has face value of $200 or less, event, or event where numerous event is not unusual or high Wellington Employees are invited. profile or could not be deemed Business Manager approval excessive. required for above situations and Employee must pay for ticket. ACCEPTING LODGING Employee cannot accept gift of Employee must pay cost of lodging lodging in connection with any entertainment opportunity. ACCEPTING CAR/LIMO SERVICE Exercise reasonable judgment and Discouraged from accepting when host must be present. host is not present unless safety is a concern ACCEPTING AIR TRAVEL- Employee cannot accept gift of Employee must pay air travel COMMERCIAL air travel expenses in connection with any entertainment opportunity. ACCEPTING AIR TRAVEL - Employee cannot accept gift of Employee cannot accept gift of PRIVATE private air travel. private air travel. GIVING GIFTS Gifts to clients valued at $100 Gifts valued at over $100 require or less are acceptable provided approval of employee's Business gift is not cash or cash Manager. equivalent. GIVING ENTERTAINMENT Employees cannot source tickets OPPORTUNITIES on behalf of clients from other employees or from ticket vendors. |
Exhibit (p)(7)
CODE OF ETHICS
AND POLICIES GOVERNING
PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
JULY 1, 2006
CODE OF ETHICS AND POLICIES GOVERNING
PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
INTRODUCTION
This Code of Ethics and Policies Governing Personal Securities Transactions (the "Code") has been adopted by Shenkman Capital with respect to Shenkman Capital's investment advisory services to all of its clients (each, a "Client"), including a U. S. registered investment company or series thereof advised or sub-advised by Shenkman Capital (each, a "Fund"). The Code establishes standards and procedures for the detection and prevention of inappropriate personal securities transactions by persons having knowledge of the investments and investment intentions of a Client and addresses other situations involving a potential conflict of interest. Definitions of underlined terms are included in Appendix A.
This Code is intended to ensure that the personal securities transactions of persons subject to the Code are conducted in accordance with the following principles:
(i) the duty at all times to place first the interests of Clients;
(ii) the requirement that all personal securities transactions be conducted consistent with this Code and in such a manner as to avoid any actual or potential conflict of interest or any abuse of an individual's responsibility and position of trust; and
(iii) the fundamental standard that Shenkman Capital personnel not take inappropriate advantage of their positions.
1. WHO IS COVERED BY THIS CODE
This Code applies to all directors, officers and team members of Shenkman Capital. Certain provisions apply only to Access Persons and Investment Personnel and portfolio managers. Shenkman Capital forbids any Access Person or Investment Personnel from engaging in any conduct which is contrary to this Code or Shenkman Capital's Policies to Detect and Prevent Insider Trading and related policies and procedures. All Access Persons are subject to the Code's restrictions and requirements regarding opening securities accounts, effecting securities transactions, reporting securities transactions, maintaining information and documents in a confidential manner, and other matters.
Failure to comply with this Code is a very serious matter and may result in disciplinary action, including, among other things, monetary fines, disgorgement of profits, and suspension or termination of employment.
2. PRE-CLEARANCE REQUIREMENT
All Access Persons must obtain prior written approval from the Review Officer (Richard Weinstein) or Assistant Review Officer (Teresa Cappella) before engaging in personal securities transactions involving: (i) the securities of a company with debt outstanding that is rated BBB+ or Baa1 or below; and (ii) shares of a Fund. Approvals will be valid until the close of business on the next business day after approval is granted.
3. PROHIBITED TRANSACTIONS
(A) ALL DIRECTORS, OFFICERS AND TEAM MEMBERS:
(i) PROHIBITION AGAINST FRAUDULENT CONDUCT. No director, officer or team member may use any information concerning a security held or to be acquired for a Client Account, or his or her ability to influence any investment decisions, for personal gain or in a manner detrimental to the interests of a Client. In addition, no director, officer or team member shall, directly or indirectly:
(1) employ any device, scheme or artifice to defraud a Client or engage in any manipulative practice with respect to a Client;
(2) make to a Client, any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state to a Client a material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading;
(3) engage in any act, practice, or course of business which operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit upon a Client; or
(4) engage in any manipulative practice with respect to a Client.
(ii) CONFIDENTIALITY. Except as required in the normal course of carrying out their business responsibilities, no director, officer or team member shall reveal information relating to the investment intentions or activities of any Client, or securities that are being considered for purchase or sale on behalf of any Client Account.
(B) ACCESS PERSONS. In addition to the restrictions in Section 3(a), Access Persons are subject to the following restrictions:
(i) BLACKOUT PERIOD. Access Persons shall not purchase or sell a Covered Security that is held in a Client Account in a transaction over which such Access Person has direct or indirect influence or control on a day during which he or she knew or should have known a Client Account has a pending "buy" or "sell" order in that same security until that order is executed or withdrawn. For purposes of this Section 3 and Section 5, the: (i) common stock and any fixed income security of an issuer shall not be deemed to be the same security; and (ii) non-convertible preferred stock of an issuer shall be deemed to be the same security as the fixed income securities of that issuer; and (iii) convertible preferred stock of an issuer shall be deemed to be the same security as both the common stock and fixed income securities of that issuer; and (iv) the options of an issuer shall be deemed to be the same as the common stock of that issuer.
(1) BLACKOUT PERIOD EXCLUSIONS. The following transactions shall not be prohibited by this Code and are not subject to the limitations of Section 3(b):
(A) purchases or sales over which the Access Person has no direct or indirect influence or control (for this purpose, you are deemed to have direct or indirect influence or control over the accounts of a spouse, minor children and relatives residing in the Access Person's home);
(B) purchases which are part of an automatic dividend reinvestment plan;
(C) purchases or sales which are non-volitional on the part of the Access Person; and
(D) purchases effected upon the exercise of rights issued by an issuer pro rata to all holders of a class of its securities, to the extent such rights were acquired from such issuer.
(ii) UNDUE INFLUENCE. Access Persons shall not cause or attempt to cause any Client Account to purchase, sell or hold any security in a manner calculated to create any personal benefit to them and shall not recommend any securities transactions for a Client Account without having disclosed their interest, if any, in such securities or the issuer thereof, including, without limitation, (i) beneficial ownership of any securities of such issuer, (ii) any position with such issuer or its affiliates and (iii) any present or proposed business relationship between the Access Person (or any party in which he or she has a significant interest) and such issuer or its affiliates.
(iii) CORPORATE OPPORTUNITIES. Access Persons shall not take personal advantage of any opportunity properly belonging to a Client.
(iv) OTHER PROHIBITED TRANSACTIONS. Access Persons shall not:
(1) induce or cause a Client Account to take actions or to fail to take action, for personal benefit rather than for the benefit of the Client Account;
(2) establish or maintain an account at a broker-dealer, bank or other entity through which securities transactions may be effected without written notice to the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer prior to establishing such an account;
(3) use knowledge of portfolio transactions of a Client Account for their personal benefit or the personal benefit of others; or
(4) violate the anti-fraud provisions of the federal or state securities laws.
(C) INVESTMENT PERSONNEL. In addition to the restrictions in Sections 3(a) and (b), Investment Personnel are subject to the following restrictions:
(i) INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS. Investment Personnel may not directly or indirectly acquire securities in an initial public offering without prior written approval from the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer.
(ii) PRIVATE PLACEMENTS. Investment Personnel may not directly or indirectly acquire securities in a private placement unless the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer determines whether the investment opportunity is appropriate, and therefore should be reserved, for a Client, and whether such opportunity is being offered to the Investment Personnel by virtue of Shenkman Capital's relationship with the Client. Any Investment Personnel who has taken a personal position through a private placement will be under an affirmative obligation to disclose that position in writing to the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer if he or she plays a material role in the Client's subsequent investment decision regarding the same issuer; this separate disclosure must be made even though the Investment Personnel has previously disclosed the ownership of the privately placed security in compliance with the pre-clearance requirements of this section. Once disclosure is given, an independent review of the Client's investment decision will be made.
(iv) SERVICE AS A DIRECTOR. Investment Personnel shall not serve on the boards of directors of publicly traded companies, absent prior authorization based upon a determination by the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer that the board service would not conflict with the interests of any Client.
(D) PORTFOLIO MANAGERS. In addition to the restrictions in Sections 3(a),
(b) and (c), no portfolio manager shall purchase or sell a Covered Security
within seven calendar days before or after a Client Account for which the
portfolio manager makes or participates in making a recommendation trades in
that same security. Any profits realized on trades within this proscribed period
shall be disgorged and given to charity.
4. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
(A) REPORTING. Access Persons, must report to the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer the information described in this Section with respect to transactions in any Covered Security in which they have, or by reason of such transaction acquire, any direct or indirect beneficial ownership.
(B) EXCLUSIONS FROM REPORTING. Purchases or sales in Covered Securities in an account in which the Access Person has no direct or indirect control are not subject to the reporting requirements of this Section.
(C) INITIAL HOLDING REPORTS. No later than ten (10) days after an Access Person becomes subject to this Code he or she must report the following information:
(i) the title, number of shares and principal amount of each Covered Security (whether or not publicly traded) in which the Access Person has any direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership as of the date he or she became subject to this Code;
(ii) the name of any broker, dealer or bank with whom the Access Person maintained an account in which any securities were held for the Access Person's direct or indirect benefit as of the date he or she became subject to this Code; and
(iii) the date that the report is submitted.
(D) QUARTERLY TRANSACTION REPORTS. No later than ten (10) days after the end of a calendar quarter, Access Persons must report the following information:
(i) with respect to any transaction during the quarter in a Covered Security (whether or not publicly traded) in which the Access Person has, or by reason of such transaction acquired, any direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership:
(1) the date of the transaction, the title, the interest rate and maturity date (if applicable), the number of shares and the principal amount of each Covered Security involved;
(2) the nature of the transaction (i.e., purchase, sale or any other type of acquisition or disposition);
(3) the price of the Covered Security at which the transaction was effected;
(4) the name of the broker, dealer or bank with or through which the transaction was effected; and
(5) the date that the report is submitted.
(ii) with respect to any account established by the Access Person in which any Covered Securities (whether or not publicly traded) were held during the quarter for your direct or indirect benefit:
(1) the name of the broker, dealer or bank which established the account;
(2) the date the account was established; and
(3) the date that the report is submitted.
(E) ANNUAL HOLDINGS REPORTS. Annually, all Access Persons must report the following information (which information must be current as of a date no more than thirty (30) days before the report is submitted):
(i) the title, number of shares and principal amount of each Covered Security (whether or not publicly traded) in which the Access Person had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership;
(ii) the name of any broker, dealer or bank with whom you maintain an account in which any securities are held for his or her direct or indirect benefit; and
(iii) the date that the report is submitted.
(F) CERTIFICATION OF COMPLIANCE. All Access Persons are required to certify annually (in the form of Attachment A) that they have read and understood the Code and recognize that they are subject to the Code. Further, all Access Persons are required to certify annually that they have complied with all the requirements of the Code and have disclosed or reported all personal securities transactions pursuant to the requirements of the Code.
(G) ALTERNATIVE REPORTING. The submission to the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer of duplicate broker trade confirmations and statements on all securities transactions shall satisfy the reporting requirements of this Section 4.
(H) REPORT QUALIFICATION. Any report may contain a statement that the report shall not be construed as an admission by the person making the report that he or she has any direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership in the Covered Securities to which the report relates.
(I) ACCOUNT OPENING PROCEDURES. All Access Persons shall provide written notice to the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer prior to opening any account with any entity through which a Covered Securities transaction may be effected. In addition, Access Persons must promptly:
(i) provide full access to a Client, its agents and attorneys to any and all records and documents which a Client considers relevant to any securities transactions or other matters subject to the Code;
(ii) cooperate with a Client, or its agents and attorneys, in investigating any securities transactions or other matter subject to the Code.
(iii) provide a Client, its agents and attorneys with an explanation (in writing if requested) of the facts and circumstances surrounding any securities transaction or other matter subject to the Code; and
(iv) promptly notify the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer or such other individual as a Client may direct, in writing, from time to time, of any incident of noncompliance with the Code by anyone subject to this Code.
5. AUTHORITY TO EXEMPT TRANSACTIONS
The Review Officer has the authority to exempt any Access Person or any personal securities transaction of a Access Person from any or all of the provisions of this Code if the Review Officer determines that such exemption would not be against any interests of a client. The Review Officer shall prepare and file a written memorandum of any exemption granted, describing the circumstances and reasons for the exemption.
6. REVIEW OFFICER
(A) DUTIES OF REVIEW OFFICER. Mr. Richard H. Weinstein, the Compliance Officer of Shenkman Capital, has been appointed as the Review Officer and Ms. Teresa R. Cappella, the Assistant Compliance Officer of Shenkman Capital, has been appointed as the Assistant Review Officer. The Review Officer or the Assistant Review Officer shall:
(i) review all securities transaction and holdings reports and maintain the names of persons responsible for reviewing these reports;
(ii) identify all persons subject to this Code who are required to make these reports and promptly inform each person of the requirements of this Code;
(iii) compare, on a quarterly basis, all Covered Securities transactions with each Client's completed portfolio transactions to determine whether a Code violation may have occurred;
(iv) maintain a signed acknowledgement by each person who is then subject to this Code; and
(v) identify persons who are Investment Personnel and inform those persons of their requirements to obtain prior written approval from the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer prior to directly or indirectly acquiring ownership of a security in any private placement.
(B) POTENTIAL TRADE CONFLICT. When there appears to be a transaction that conflicts with the Code, the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer may request a written explanation of the person's transaction. If after post-trade review, it is determined that there has been
a material violation of the Code, a report will be made by the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer with a recommendation of appropriate action to the President or Directors of Shenkman Capital.
(C) REQUIRED RECORDS. The Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer shall maintain or cause to be maintained:
(i) a copy of any code of ethics adopted by Shenkman Capital which has been in effect during the previous five (5) years in an easily accessible place;
(ii) a record of any violation of any code of ethics and of any actions taken as a result of such violation, in an easily accessible place for at least five (5) years after the end of the fiscal year in which the violation occurs;
(iii) a copy of each report made by anyone subject to this Code as required by Section 4 for at least five (5) years after the end of the fiscal year in which the report is made, the first two (2) years in an easily accessible place;
(iv) a list of all persons who are, or within the past five years have been, required to make reports or who were responsible for reviewing these reports pursuant to any code of ethics adopted by Shenkman Capital, in an easily accessible place;
(v) a copy of each written report and certification required pursuant to Section 6(e) of this Code for at least five (5) years after the end of the fiscal year in which it is made, the first two (2) years in an easily accessible place; and
(vi) a record of any decision, and the reasons supporting the decisions, approving the acquisition by Investment Personnel of privately placed securities for at least five (5) years after the end of the fiscal year in which the approval is granted.
(D) POST-TRADE REVIEW PROCESS. Following receipt of trade confirms and statements, transactions will be screened for violations of the Code, including the following:
(i) same day trades: transactions by Access Persons occurring on the same day as the purchase or sale of the same security by a Client Account for which they are an Access Person.
(ii) portfolio manager trades: transactions by a portfolio manager within seven calendar days before and after a Client Account for which the portfolio manager makes or participates in making a recommendation, trades in that same security.
(iii) potential conflicts: transactions by Access Persons in securities, which, within the most recent 15 days, are or have been held by a Client Account or are being or have been considered by Shenkman Capital for purchase by a Client Account.
(iv) other activities: transactions which may give the appearance that an Access Person has executed transactions not in accordance with this Code.
(E) SUBMISSION TO FUND BOARD. The Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer shall at least annually prepare a written report to the Board of Directors of a Fund listed in Appendix C that:
(i) describes any issues under this Code or its procedures since the last report to the Directors, including, but not limited to, information about material violations of the code or procedures and sanctions imposed in response to the material violations; and
(ii) certifies that Shenkman Capital has adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent its Access Persons from violating this Code.
CODE OF ETHICS AND POLICIES GOVERNING
PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
APPENDIX A: DEFINITIONS
(a) Access Person:
(i) of Shenkman Capital means each director or officer of Shenkman Capital, any team member or agent of Shenkman Capital, or any company in a control relationship to Shenkman Capital who, in connection with the person's regular functions or duties, makes, participates in or obtains information regarding the purchase or sale of Covered Securities by Shenkman Capital on behalf of a Client Account, or whose functions relate to the making of any recommendations with respect to such purchases or sales; and
(ii) any natural person in a control relationship to Shenkman Capital who obtains information concerning recommendations made to a Client by Shenkman Capital with regard to the purchase or sale of Covered Securities by Shenkman Capital on behalf of a Client Account;
(b) Act means the Investment Company of 1940, as amended.
(c) Beneficial Owner shall have the meaning as that set forth in Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, except that the determination of direct or indirect beneficial ownership shall apply to all Covered Securities which an Access Person owns or acquires. A beneficial owner of a security is any person who, directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise, has or shares a direct or indirect pecuniary interest (the opportunity, directly or indirectly, to profit or share in any profit derived from a transaction in the subject securities) in a security.
Indirect pecuniary interest in a security includes securities held by a person's immediate family sharing the same household. Immediate family means any child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law (including adoptive relationships).
(d) Control means the power to exercise a controlling influence over the management or policies of a company, unless this power is solely the result of an official position with the company. Ownership of 25% or more of a company's outstanding voting securities is presumed to give the holder thereof control over the company. This presumption may be rebutted by the Review Officer or Assistant Review Officer based upon the facts and circumstances of a given situation.
(e) Covered Security means any security except:
(i) direct obligations of the Government of the United States;
(ii) banker's acceptances and bank certificates of deposits;
(iii) commercial paper and debt instruments with a maturity at issuance of less than 366 days and that are rated in one of the two highest rating categories by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization;
(iv) repurchase agreements covering any of the foregoing; and
(v) shares of registered open-end investment companies other than a Fund.
(f) Investment Personnel means
(i) any team member of Shenkman Capital who, in connection with his or her regular functions or duties, makes or participates in making recommendations regarding the purchase or sale of securities by Shenkman Capital; and any individual who controls Shenkman Capital or a Client for which Shenkman Capital is an investment adviser and who obtains information concerning recommendations made to the Client regarding the purchase or sale of securities by Shenkman Capital on behalf of the Client Account.
(g) Purchase or sale includes, among other things, the writing of an option to purchase or sell.
(h) Security held or to be acquired by a Client Account means
(i) any Covered Security which, with the most recent 15 days (x) is or has been held by the applicable Client Account or (y) is being or has been considered by the Client or its investment adviser for purchase by the applicable Client; and
(ii) any option to purchase or sell, and any security convertible into or exchangeable for, a Covered Security.
CODE OF ETHICS AND POLICIES GOVERNING
PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
APPENDIX B
LIST OF ACCESS PERSONS
AS OF JULY 4, 2006
EMPLOYEE ACCESS PERSON INVESTMENT PERSONNEL AS OF DATE -------- ------------- -------------------- ------------------ Acampora, David X May 27, 2003 Alston, Florence May 30, 2001 Bangert, Todd X April 1, 2003 Barrow, Jordan X X June 21, 2004 Bernhard, Ted X X May 30, 2001 Bloch, Frank X December 20, 2004 Cappella, Teresa X X September 22, 2003 Cardoza, Jessica X May 22, 2006 Christopoulos, Aspasia X May 30, 2001 Condon, Raymond X X May 27, 2003 Dobbin, Eric X X April 3, 2006 Doerner, Tom X May 8, 2006 Drane, Paul X May 15, 2006 Drugos, Alex X July 19, 2005 English, Raymond X January 3, 2005 Flanagan, Mark X X May 30, 2001 Gallo, Francis X November 4, 2002 Gallo, Jeffrey X X September 6, 2005 Garvan, Sarah X October 31, 2005 George, Jill X August 1, 2005 Ghika, Ruxandra X January 6, 2003 Grabine, Scott X X September 4, 2001 Gray, Carla X September 27, 2005 Hackert, Paula May 30, 2001 Haggerty, Michelle X November 3, 2003 Hekking, Kim X May 30, 2001 Hodes, Jason X X May 30, 2001 Kanner, Michael X X February 25, 2002 Kapadia, Jessica X X July 19, 2004 Kaye, Shawn X April 21, 2003 |
LIST OF ACCESS PERSONS
AS OF JULY 4, 2006 (CONT.)
EMPLOYEE ACCESS PERSON INVESTMENT PERSONNEL AS OF DATE -------- ------------- -------------------- ------------------ Keyes, Nicholas X December 13, 2004 Leahy, Scott X X May 2, 2005 Levine, Amy X X November 12, 2002 Liu, Susan X August 22, 2005 Logan, Nicolas X January 30, 2006 Lupo, Nicole X June 23, 2003 Magness, Robert X January 6, 2004 Maimone, Lauren X September 1, 2005 Martinez, Arelys X May 30, 2001 McBride, Colleen X September 21, 2005 McCord, Josh X June 12, 2006 McGee, Evan X December 31, 2003 Meara, Eileen X May 30, 2001 Merrick, Regan X July 24, 2003 Naso, Greg X X August 8, 2005 Ng, Kwok X X December 23, 2002 Paltrowitz, Lawrence X X December 6, 2001 Petrino, Raymond X May 30, 2001 Ruddy, Lisa April 22, 2002 Sarchese, Nicholas X X January 8, 2003 Savas, Jonathan X X April 12, 2004 Schweitzer, Steve X X May 30, 2001 Shenkman Greg X X June 30, 2003 Shenkman, Mark R. X X May 30, 2001 Shirak, Todd X X March 24, 2003 Singer, Ashley X X August 11, 2003 Sorensen, Joseph X X November 19, 2002 Sprague, Mary Colette X June 28, 2004 Stricker, Rob X X October 1, 2001 Subramanian, Radha X X March 17, 2003 Sym, Christopher X X November 21, 2005 Tosto, John X October 3, 2005 Wahlig, Beth X X September 15, 2003 Wechsler, Neil X X July 1, 2002 Weinstein, Richard X X May 30, 2001 Whatmough, Molly X July 18, 2005 Whitley, Frank X X May 30, 2001 |
CODE OF ETHICS AND POLICIES GOVERNING
PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
APPENDIX C
LIST OF FUNDS
AS OF JULY 2006
Members High Income Fund
Members Ultra Series High Income Fund
Dreyfus Premier High Income Fund
Harbor High-Yield Bond Fund
Exhibit (p)(8)
PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT COMPANY, L.L.C.
CODE OF ETHICS
I. STATEMENT OF POLICY
This Code of Ethics ("Code") is designed to ensure that those individuals who have access to information regarding the portfolio securities activities of clients of Paradigm Asset Management Company, L.L.C. ("Paradigm") not use information concerning such clients' portfolio securities activities for his or her personal benefit and to the detriment of such client. This Code also sets forth procedures designated to aid Paradigm in complying with certain of the rules promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") pursuant to the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 ("Advisers Act").
This Code is intended to cover all Supervised Persons (as this and other capitalized terms are defined in Section III of this Code) of Paradigm. All Supervised Persons are subject to and bound by the terms of this Code.
II. GENERAL PRINCIPLES
All persons subject to this Code should keep the following general fiduciary principles in mind in discharging his or her obligations under the Code. Each person subject to this Code shall:
A. conduct all professional responsibilities in accordance with applicable federal securities laws;
B. at all times, place the interest of Investment Advisory Clients before his or her personal interest consistent with Paradigm's fiduciary duty to its Investment Advisory clients;
C. conduct all personal securities transactions in a manner consistent with this Code, so as to avoid any actual or potential conflicts of interest, or an abuse of position of trust and responsibility; and
D. not take any inappropriate advantage of his or her position with or on behalf of any Investment Advisory Client.
E. Not receive or give gifts if intended to improperly influence, or would have the appearance of improperly influencing, any broker, dealer, investment adviser, financial institution, current or former client, any supplier of goods or services to Paradigm or its clients, or any company whose Securities have been purchased or sold or considered for purchase or sale on behalf of Paradigm's clients.
III. DEFINITIONS
A. "Access Person" shall mean any director, officer, member (provided, however, that with respect to a member which is other than a natural person, such member shall not be deemed an "Access Person," but certain of its employees may be deemed to be an Access Person) or Supervised Person who, in connection with his or her regular functions or duties, makes, participates in or obtains nonpublic information regarding the purchase or sale of Securities by an Investment
Advisory Client or whose functions relate to any recommendations with respect to such purchases or sales, or who has access to such recommendations that are nonpublic.
B. "Paradigm" shall mean Paradigm Asset Management Company, L.L.C.
C. "Beneficial ownership" shall be interpreted in the same manner as it would be in determining whether a person is subject to the provisions of Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder. Application of this definition is explained in more detail in Appendix A attached hereto, but generally includes ownership by any person who, directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise has or shares, a direct or indirect pecuniary or voting interest in a security.
D. "Code" shall mean this Code of Ethics.
E. A Security is being "considered for purchase or sale" when Paradigm has undertaken a project to report on a specific Security or to prepare a draft or final report on such Security or if a recommendation has been made by any Portfolio Manager or member of the Investment Committee with respect to a Security (and, with respect to Portfolio Managers and members of the Investment Committee, if such person is considering making such a recommendation).
F. "Control" shall mean the power to exercise a controlling influence on the management or policies of a company, unless such power is solely the result of an official position with such company.
G. "Designated Officer" shall mean the Chief Compliance Officer of Paradigm, who shall be responsible for monitoring Paradigm's compliance with this Code and preclearing personal Security transactions as required by this Code, provided, however, that if the Designated Officer is required to obtain approval from, or submit a report to, the Designated Officer hereunder, he shall seek such approval from, or submit such report to a person designated by the President of Paradigm or, if no such person is designated, the President of Paradigm who shall for such purpose be deemed the Designated Officer.
H. "Employee" means any person who is employed by Paradigm in exchange for predetermined and periodic financial compensation.
I. The "federal securities laws" means the Securities Act of 1933, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Advisers Act, Title V of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, any rules adopted by the SEC under any of these statutes, the Bank Secrecy Act as it applies to mutual funds and investment advisers, and any rules adopted thereunder by the SEC or the Department of the Treasury.
J. "Immediate Family" of an Access Person means any of the following persons (including adoptive relationships) who reside in the same household as the Access Person:
Child Grandparent Son-in-law Stepchild Spouse Daughter-in-law Grandchild Sibling Brother-in-law Parent Mother-in-law Sister-in-law Stepparent Father-in-law |
K. "Investment Advisory Clients" shall mean any client of Paradigm and any other client or account which is advised or subadvised by Paradigm as to the value of Securities or as to the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling Securities.
L. "Investment Committee" means the Investment Committee of Paradigm or any other body of Paradigm serving an equivalent function.
M. "Portfolio Manager" shall mean any Access Person with direct responsibility and authority to make investment decisions affecting any Investment Advisory Client and shall include, without limitation, all members of Paradigm's Investment Committee.
N. A "purchase" or "sale" of a Security includes, among other things, the purchase or writing of an option to purchase or sell a Security.
O. "Reportable Fund" means: (i) any fund for which Paradigm serves as an investment adviser as defined in Section 2(a)(20) of the 1940 Act; or (ii) any fund whose investment adviser or principal underwriter controls Paradigm, is controlled by Paradigm, or is under common control of Paradigm. For purpose of this section, "control" has the same meaning as it does in Section 2(a)(9) of the 1940 Act. (Generally, this means funds advised by the Paradigm).
P. "Reportable Security" means any Security with the exception of:
(i) direct obligations of the Government of the United States;
(ii) banker's acceptances, bank certificates of deposit,
commercial paper and high quality short-term debt instruments,
including repurchase agreements; (iii) shares issued by money
market funds; (iv) shares issued by open-end funds, other than
Reportable Funds; and shares issued by unit investment trusts
that are invested exclusively in one or more open-end funds, none
of which are Reportable Funds.
Q. "Security" shall have the meaning as set forth in Section 202(a)(18) of the Advisers Act (in effect, all securities), except that it shall not include direct obligations of the Government of the United States, bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper and high quality short-term debt instruments, including repurchase agreements, shares issued by money market funds, shares of mutual funds, and shares issued by unit investment trusts that are invested exclusively in one or more mutual funds.
R. A "Supervised Person" is a member, officer, director and Employee, as well as any other person who provides advice on behalf of Paradigm and are subject to Paradigm's supervision and control.
IV. RESTRICTIONS
A. Private Placement, OTC Trading, Initial Public Offerings and Limited Offerings -- with regards to private placements, transactions in securities which are not listed on the New York Stock Exchange or American Stock Exchange, or traded in the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System (together "Unlisted Securities") and purchases of Securities in initial public offerings ("IPOs") or limited offerings:
1. Each Access Person contemplating the acquisition of direct or indirect beneficial ownership of a Security in a private placement transaction, a Security which is an Unlisted Security or a Security in an IPO or limited offering, shall obtain express prior written approval from the Designated Officer for any such acquisition (who, in making such determination, shall consider among other factors, whether the investment opportunity should be reserved for one or more Investment Advisory Clients, and whether such opportunity is being offered to such Access Person by virtue of his or her position with Paradigm); and
2. If an Access Person shall have acquired direct or indirect beneficial ownership of a Security of an issuer in a private placement transaction, of a Security which is an unlisted Security or a Security in an IPO or limited offering, such Access Person shall disclose such personal investment to the Designated Officer prior to each subsequent recommendation to any Investment Advisory Client for which he or she acts in a capacity as an Access Person, for investment in that issuer.
3. If an Access Person shall have acquired direct or indirect beneficial ownership of a Security of an issuer in a private placement transaction, of a Security which is an Unlisted Security or a Security in an IPO or limited offering, any subsequent decision or recommendation by such Access Person to purchase Securities of the same issuer for the account of an Investment Advisory Client shall be subject to an independent review by advisory personnel with no personal interest in the issuer.
B. Nonpublic Material Information
No Supervised Person shall utilize nonpublic material information about any issuer of Securities in the course of rendering investment advice or making investment decisions on behalf of Paradigm or its Investment Advisory Clients. Nonpublic material information is material information not generally available to the public. No Supervised Person should solicit from any issuer of Securities any such nonpublic material information. Any Supervised Person inadvertently receiving nonpublic information regarding Securities held by an Investment Advisory Client of Paradigm should notify the Designated Officer immediately.
C. Transactions with Investment Advisory Clients
No Supervised Person shall knowingly sell to or purchase from any Investment Advisory Client any Security or other property of which he or she has, or by
reason of such transaction acquires, direct or indirect beneficial ownership, except Securities of which such Investment Advisory Client is the issuer.
V. COMPLIANCE PROCEDURES
A. Preclearance
1. All requests for preclearance pursuant to Section IV.a. must be set forth in writing on a standard Personal Trading Request and Authorization Form (a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit B).
2. Paradigm shall cause to be maintained such "restricted
lists" or other documents or devices as shall be necessary
and appropriate to facilitate the restrictions found in
Section IV.b.
B. Reporting Requirements
Supervised Persons of Paradigm may open and retain Accounts. However, every Access Person of Paradigm must provide initial and periodic reports to the Designated Officer that contain the information described below. All reports are to be filed with the Designated Officer. It is Paradigm's policy that each Access Person must arrange, if possible, for their brokerage firm(s) to send automatic duplicate account statements for themselves and any accounts any which they hold a beneficial ownership to the following person:
Gregory Pai Chief Compliance Officer Paradigm Asset Management, L.L.C. 445 Hamilton Avenue, 12th Floor, Room 1203 White Plains, New York 10601 Attention: Chief Compliance Officer
The initial, quarterly and annual reporting requirements, described below, may be conveniently satisfied through Paradigm's requirement that all Access Persons arrange for automatic duplicate account statements to be sent by each brokerage firm for all Access Persons' personal accounts including accounts in which the Access Persons have a beneficial ownership. The account statements must be received by the Designated Officer within the time period for which the report it is replacing was to be submitted to the Designated Officer. In the event that a duplicate account statement does not contain all of the reporting information required for quarterly reports under Section V.B. of this Code, it is Paradigm's policy that Access Persons arrange for their trade confirmations to be provided to the Designated Officer or his designee if such trade confirmations supplement the missing required information.
However, please note that trade confirmations may not be used to supplement missing required information for the initial and annual holdings reports in the event that a duplicate account statement does not contain all the reporting information required under Section V.B. of this Code. If the account statements do not contain all of the information required to be found in an initial and annual holdings report, then the Access Person must submit an actual report containing all of the required information as described below. If the trade confirmations and
account statements together do not contain all of the information required to be found in a quarterly report, then the Access Person must submit an actual report containing all the required information as described below.
Access Persons who do not have brokerage Accounts and have no investment transactions must submit a quarterly report no later than thirty (30) days after the end of each calendar quarter to report and confirm that no personal Securities transactions have occurred and that no personal accounts have been opened or investments made during the quarter.
1. Initial Holdings Reports
Every Access Person shall, no later than ten (10) days after
the person becomes an Access Person and no later than ten
(10) days after opening any new brokerage or investment
accounts, file an initial holdings report (a copy of which
is attached hereto as Exhibit C) current within 45 days
prior to the date the person became an Access Person
containing the following information:
a. The title and type of security, and as applicable the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, number of shares (for equity Securities), and principal amount (for debt Securities) of each Reportable Security in which the Supervised Person has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership when the person becomes a Supervised Person;
b. The date that the report is submitted by the Access Person; and
c. The name of any broker, dealer or bank with whom the Access Person maintains an account in which any Securities are held for the direct or indirect benefit of the Access Person.
2. Quarterly Transaction Reports
Every Access Person must, no later than thirty (30) days after the end of a calendar quarter, file a completed quarterly report with any transactions during the quarter in a Reportable Security in which the Access Person had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership containing the following information:
a. The date of the transaction, the title, and as applicable the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, interest rate and maturity date, number of shares (for equity Securities), and principal amount (for debt Securities) of each Reportable Security involved;
b. The nature of the transaction (i.e., purchase, sale or any other type of acquisition or disposition);
c. The price of the Reportable Security at which the transaction was effected;
d. The name of the broker, dealer or bank with or through whom the transaction was effected; and
e. The date that the report is submitted by the Access Person.
3. Annual Holdings Report
Every Access Person shall, no later than February 14 each year, file a completed annual holdings report containing the following information current as of the preceding December 31:
a. The title and type of security, and as applicable the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, number of shares (for equity Securities), and principal amount (for debt Securities) of each Reportable Security in which the Access Person has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership;
b. The name of any broker, dealer or bank with whom the Access Person maintains an account in which any Securities are held for the direct or indirect interest of the Access Person; and
c. The date that the report is submitted by the Access Person.
4. Review of Holdings Reports
The Designated Officer, at his discretion, may impose sanctions against those Supervised Persons who do not file completed transaction reports in a timely fashion.
The Designated Officer or his designee shall at least annually identify all Access Persons who are required to file reports pursuant to this Code and will inform such Access Persons of their reporting obligations.
5. Exceptions to Reporting Requirements
An Access Person need not submit:
a. Any report with respect to Securities held in accounts over which the Access Person had no direct or indirect influence or control;
b. A quarterly report with respect to transactions effected pursuant to an automatic investment plan;
c. A quarterly report if the report would duplicate information contained in broker trade confirmations or account statements that Paradigm holds in its records so long as the Designated Officer receives the confirmations or statements no later than 30 days after the end of the applicable calendar quarter.
VI. INITIAL AND ANNUAL CERTIFICATION
A. All Supervised Persons are required to read and retain this Code and any amendments to this Code and to sign and return the Acknowledgement Form (a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit D) to the Designated Officer upon commencement of employment or other services, and once each calendar year thereafter not later than February 15th. Each Supervised Person must acknowledge that he or she has:
1. Received, read, understands and agrees to abide by this Code and any amendments to this Code;
2. Complied with all requirements of this Code and any amendments to this Code; and
3. Reported all accounts, holdings and transactions as required by this Code and any amendments to this Code.
B. The Designated Officer will periodically review the quarterly transaction reports and annual holdings reports. The Designated Officer will also review all Supervised Persons' Code of Ethics Annual Certifications to determine if any Supervised Person has failed to comply with such or other provisions of this Code of Ethics. The Designated Officer will include a written description of such failure and a description of those remedial steps which have been taken. Copies of the foregoing descriptions shall be given to the President of Paradigm.
VII. REPORTING OF VIOLATIONS
All Supervised Persons have an affirmative obligation to promptly report any violations of this Code to the Designated Officer. Failure to do so is itself a violation of this Code. In the event that a matter implicates the Designated Officer, notice of a violation may be provided to the President of Paradigm.
Paradigm shall not retaliate or tolerate any retaliation against anyone who in good faith reports a violation to the Designated Officer. The Designated Officer shall not reveal the identity of anyone who reports a violation and who asks that their identity remain confidential, and shall not make any effort, or tolerate any effort, to ascertain the identity of any person who reports a violation anonymously, unless such information is required to be disclosed by law or applicable legal process or by applicable securities or commodities exchange, self-regulatory organization or other rules or regulations or disclosure of such information, or ascertaining such identity, supported by a clear and compelling interest of clients that is sufficient in the particular case to overcome an expectation of anonymity.
VIII. SANCTIONS
A. Forms of Sanction
Any Supervised Person who is determined to have violated any provision of this Code shall be subject to sanctions, which may include, but are not limited to, any one or more of the following: censure, imposition of a fine, suspension without
pay, demotion, termination of employment, disgorgement of any profits realized on transactions in violation of this Code or any other remedy which senior management deems appropriate for the violation of this Code.
B. Procedures
If the Designated Officer finds that a material violation has occurred, he shall report the violation and the suggested corrective action and sanctions to the President of Paradigm, who may at the request of the individual involved review the matter, and shall impose such sanction as he deems appropriate.
VIII. REVIEW
The Designated Officer will annually review the adequacy of the Code and the effectiveness of its implementation.
IX. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
A. Access Persons
The Designated Officer will identify all Access Persons who are under a duty to make reports to Paradigm and will inform such persons of such duty. The Designated Officer will list all Access Persons in the List of Access Persons (a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit E). Any failure by the Designated Officer to identify an Access Person in the List of Access Persons or notify any person of his or her duties under this Code shall not relieve such person of his or her obligations hereunder.
B. Records
Paradigm shall maintain records as required by Rule 204-2 under the Advisors Act.
Dated as of October 5, 2004
Last updated as of June 2, 2006
APPENDIX A
PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT COMPANY, L.L.C.
EXAMPLES OF BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP
The Code of Ethics relates to the purchase or sale of securities of which an Access Person has a direct or indirect "beneficial ownership" except for purchases or sales over which such individual has no direct or indirect influence or control.
EXAMPLES OF BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP
What constitutes "beneficial ownership" has been dealt with in a number of SEC releases and has grown to encompass many diverse situations. These include securities held:
a) by you for your own benefit, whether bearer, registered in your own name, or otherwise;
b) by others for your benefit (regardless of whether or how registered), such as securities held for you by custodians, brokers, relatives, executors or administrators;
c) for your account by pledges;
d) by a trust in which you have an income or remainder interest. Exceptions: where your only interest is to get principal if (1) some other remainderman dies before distribution, or (2) if some other person can direct by will a distribution of trust property or income to you;
e) by you as trustee or co-trustee, where either of you or members of your immediate family, i.e., spouse, children, and their descendants, step-children, parents and their ancestors, and step-parents (treating a legal adoption as blood relationship), have an income or remainder interest in the trust;
f) by a trust of which you are the settler, if you have the power to revoke the trust without obtaining the consent of all the beneficiaries;
g) by any partnership in which you are a partner;
h) by a personal holding company held by you alone or jointly with others;
i) in the name of your spouse unless legally separated;
j) in the name of minor children or in the name of any relative of yours or of your spouse (including an adult child) who is presently sharing your home. This applies even if the Securities were not received from you and the dividends are not actually used for the maintenance of your home;
k) in the name of another person (other than those listed in (i) and
(j) just above), if by reason of any contract, understanding,
relationship, agreement, or other arrangement, you obtain
benefits substantially equivalent to those of ownership; or
l) in the name of any person other than yourself, even though you do not obtain benefits substantially equivalent to those of ownership (as described in (k) just above), if you can vest or revest title in yours.
EXHIBIT B
PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT COMPANY, L.L.C.
PERSONAL TRADING REQUEST AND AUTHORIZATION
Personal Trading Request (to be completed by access person prior to any personal trade):
Name: __________________________________________________________________________ Date For Which You Seek Approval: ______________________________________________
Are you aware of any facts regarding the proposed transaction, including the existence of any substantial economic relationship, between the proposed transaction and any securities held or to be acquired by Paradigm that may be relevant to a determination as to the existence of a potential conflict of interest?(1)
Yes___ No___
If yes, please describe:
To the best of your knowledge and belief, the answers that you have provided above are true and correct.
------------------------- ----------------------------------- Date Signature ------------------------- (1) Facts that would be responsive to this question include, for |
example, the receipt of "special favors" from a stock promoter, such as participation in a private placement or initial public offering. Another example would be investment in securities of a limited partnership that in turn owned warrants of a company formed for the purpose of effecting a leveraged buy-out in circumstances where Paradigm might invest in securities related to the leveraged buy-out. The foregoing are only examples of pertinent facts and in no way limit the types of facts that may be responsive to this question.
Personal Trading Request Authorization Form -- Page 2
Approval or Disapproval of Personal Trading Request (to be completed by Designated Officer):
_________ I confirm that the above-described proposed transaction appears to be consistent with the policies described in the Code and that the conditions necessary(2) for approval of the proposed transaction have been satisfied. _________ I do not believe the above-described proposed transaction is consistent with the policies described in the Code or that the conditions necessary for approval of the proposed transaction have been satisfied. Dated: Signed: ------------------ -------------------------------- Title: ------------------------- |
EXHIBIT C
PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT COMPANY, L.L.C.
INITIAL HOLDINGS REPORT
To: _________________________________________, Designated Officer
From: _________________________________________________
(Your Name)
Date: _________________________________________________
This Initial Holdings Report (the "Report") is submitted pursuant to the Code of Ethics of Paradigm Asset Management Company, L.L.C. and supplies information with respect to securities in which I may be deemed to have, or to have had, any direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership interest (whether or not such security is a security held or to be acquired by the Fund).
Unless the context otherwise requires, all terms used in the Report shall have the same meaning as set forth in the Code of Ethics.
For purposes of the Report Beneficial Ownership shall be interpreted subject to the provisions of the Code of Ethics and Rule 16a-1(a)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Name of the Broker, Dealer or Bank With Exchange Ticker Whom Account in Symbol or CUSIP Principal Amount Which Securities Were Title of Securities Number (as applicable) Number of Shares of Securities Held is Maintained ------------------- ---------------------- ---------------- ------------- ------------------ |
EXHIBIT D
PARADIGM ASSET MANAGEMENT COMPANY, L.L.C.
This Code of Ethics is an important document prepared to insure your familiarity with the policies, rules and procedures of Paradigm Asset Management Company, L.L.C. ("Paradigm").
Please read the following statements, check the boxes which correspond to each statement indicating your understanding and adherence to the statements and sign below to indicate your receipt and acknowledgement of Paradigm's Code of Ethics dated as of April 6, 2006:
[ ] I understand that the policies, rules and procedures described in the Code of Ethics are subject to change at the sole discretion of Paradigm at any time.
[ ] I have received and read a copy of Paradigm's Code of Ethics, including any amendments thereto. I have addressed any questions I had regarding the Code of Ethics and the amendments thereto to the Designated Officer.
[ ] I understand that Paradigm may require an additional signature from me should the content of this Code be changed in any way to indicate that I am aware of and understand any new policies, rules and procedures.
[ ] With regard to the past year, I arranged for a duplicate copy of all brokerage statement(s) and or broker confirmation statement(s) required under this Code to be sent to the Designated Officer. For any quarter in which I did not arrange for a copy of all brokerage statement(s) and or brokerage confirmation statement(s) to be sent to the Designated Officer, I affirm that I had no transactions during that quarter which required a transaction report.
[ ] I affirm that I have complied with the requirements of the Code of Ethics over the past year and have reported any violations of the Code of Ethics of which I am aware.
[ ] I affirm that I have disclosed all personal securities transactions over the past year required to be disclosed by the Code of Ethics and have sought and obtained preclearance whenever required by the Code of Ethics.
My signature below certifies that to the best of my knowledge the information furnished in this report is true and correct.
------------------------- ------------------------ Employee's Printed Name Position ------------------------- ------------------------- Employee's Signature Date |
EXHIBIT E
LIST OF ACCESS PERSONS
The Designated Officer of Paradigm Asset Management Company, L.L.C. ("Paradigm") hereby identifies these employees of Paradigm as Access Persons. The failure of the Designated Officer to include any employee in this list does not relieve that employee of his duties under this Code of Ethics. Furthermore, the failure of the Designated Officer to identify in this List of Access Persons any employee who falls within the definition of Access Person does not relieve that employee of the duties and responsibilities of Access Persons under this Code.
Exhibit (p)(9)
AMENDED AND RESTATED
CODE OF ETHICS
OF THE
OPPENHEIMER FUNDS, OPPENHEIMERFUNDS, INC.
(INCLUDING AFFILIATES AND SUBSIDIARIES)
AND
OPPENHEIMERFUNDS DISTRIBUTOR, INC.
DATED AS OF MARCH 31, 2006
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction and Purpose of the Code of Ethics......................... 2 2. Statement of General Principles........................................ 3 3. Standards of Business Conduct.......................................... 3 4. Definitions............................................................ 5 5. All Employees--Restrictions on Outside Business Activities............. 9 6. All Employees--Restrictions on Gifts from Business Associates.......... 9 7. All Employees--Investments in Oppenheimer Funds........................ 9 8. All Employees and Access Persons--Requirements for Personal Accounts... 10 9. Access Persons--Prohibited Transactions in Securities.................. 10 10. Investment Persons--Prohibited Transactions in Securities.............. 11 11. Reporting Requirements................................................. 13 12. Certifications......................................................... 16 13. Independent Directors.................................................. 16 14. Penalties and Sanctions................................................ 16 15. Duties of the Code of Ethics Oversight Committee....................... 17 16. Duties of the Code Administrator....................................... 17 17. Recordkeeping.......................................................... 18 18. Amendments............................................................. 19 |
1. INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE OF THE CODE OF ETHICS.
As an investment management firm, OppenheimerFunds, Inc., its affiliates and subsidiaries (collectively defined below as "OFI"), owe a fiduciary responsibility to our clients, including the Oppenheimer funds. Accordingly, OFI and every Employee of OFI owe those clients a duty of undivided loyalty. Our clients entrust us with their financial well-being and expect us to act in their best interests at all times. OFI seeks to maintain a reputation for fair dealing, honesty, candor, objectivity and unbending integrity by conducting our business on a set of shared values and principles of trust.
This Code of Ethics ("Code") establishes standards of conduct expected of all Employees and addresses conflicts that arise from Employees' personal trading and other activities. EVERY EMPLOYEE OF OFI IS EXPECTED TO FULLY UNDERSTAND AND ADHERE TO THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES SET FORTH IN THIS CODE. As each Employee must be aware, we work in a highly regulated industry and are governed by an ever-increasing body of federal, state, and international laws and numerous rules and regulations which, if not observed, can subject OFI and/or its Employees to regulatory sanctions.
The investment companies for which OFI or Centennial Asset Management Corporation ("CAMC") acts as investment adviser (collectively referred to as the "Oppenheimer Funds"); (ii) OFI, CAMC, OFI's other subsidiaries or directly controlled affiliates that are registered investment advisers(1); and (iii) OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. ("OFDI"), the principal underwriter of the Oppenheimer Funds (hereinafter, these entities are collectively referred to as "OFI"), have adopted this Code of Ethics ("Code") in compliance with Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act"), or Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended ("Advisers Act").
The Code is designed to establish procedures for the detection and prevention of activities by which persons having knowledge of the holdings, recommended investments and investment intentions of the Oppenheimer Funds, other investment companies and other clients for which OFI acts as adviser or sub-adviser (collectively, "Advisory Clients") may abuse their fiduciary duties, and otherwise to deal with the type of conflict of interest situations addressed by Rule 17j-1 and Rule 204A-1.
Although the Code is intended to provide each Employee with guidance and certainty as to whether or not certain actions or practices are permissible, it does not cover every issue an Employee may face. In this regard, OFI also maintains other compliance-oriented policies and procedures (including among others, a Code of Conduct, a Gift Policy, a Policy to Detect and Prevent Insider Trading and a Policy Governing Dissemination of Fund Portfolio Holdings) that
may be directly applicable to an Employee's specific responsibilities and duties. (Those other policies and this Code are available to all OFI employees through OFI's internal employee website (OPnet).) Nevertheless, this Code should be viewed as a guide for each Employee and OFI with respect to how we jointly must conduct our business to live up to our guiding tenet that the interests of our clients and customers must always come first.
If you have any questions about this Code, you should discuss them with the Code Administrator as soon as possible to ensure that you remain in compliance with the Code at all times. In the event that any provision of this Code conflicts with any other OFI policy or procedure, the provisions of this Code shall apply. Please understand that you are expected to adhere to all company policies at all times.
ALL OFI EMPLOYEES ARE EXPECTED TO READ THE CODE CAREFULLY AND OBSERVE AND ADHERE TO ITS GUIDANCE AT ALL TIMES. All OFI Employees have an obligation to provide notice to the Code Administrator on a timely basis if there is a change to their duties, responsibilities or title which affects their reporting status under this Code.
2. STATEMENT OF GENERAL PRINCIPLES. In general, every Employee must observe the following fiduciary principles with respect to his or her personal investment activities:
(a) At all times, each Employee must place the interests of Advisory Clients first;
(b) All personal securities transactions of each Employee must be conducted consistent with this Code and in such a manner as to avoid any actual or potential conflict of interest or any abuse of the Employee's position of trust and responsibility; and
(c) No Employee should take inappropriate advantage of his or her position at OFI.
3. STANDARDS OF BUSINESS CONDUCT
Although the reporting requirements in Section 11 of this Code apply to all Employees, the specific trading and pre-approval provisions in sections 9 and 10 are concerned primarily with those investment activities of an "Access Person" and an "Investment Person" (as defined in Section 4) who may benefit from or interfere with the purchase or sale of portfolio securities by Advisory Clients. However, all Employees are prohibited from using information concerning the investment intentions of Advisory Clients for personal gain or in a manner detrimental to the interests of any Advisory Client. In this regard, each Employee also should refer to the separate Code of Conduct which governs certain other activities of Employees. In addition to this Code and the separate Code of Conduct, all Employees must comply with the following general standards of business conduct.
(a) Compliance with Laws and Regulations. All Employees must comply with all federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations applicable to the business or
operations of OFI, including, but not limited to, the federal securities laws.(2) In particular, Employees (including all Access Persons) are not permitted, in connection with the purchase or sale, directly or indirectly, of a Security Held or to Be Acquired by an Advisory Client, to:
(i) employ any device, scheme or artifice to defraud such Advisory Client;
(ii) make to such Advisory Client any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state to such Advisory Client a material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading;
(iii) engage in any act, practice, or course of business which operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit upon any such Advisory Client; or
(iv) engage in any manipulative practice with respect to such Advisory Client.
(b) Conflicts of Interest. As a fiduciary, OFI has an affirmative duty of care, loyalty, honesty, and good faith to act in the best interests of its clients. Compliance with this duty can be achieved by trying to avoid conflicts of interest and by fully disclosing all material facts concerning any conflict that does arise with respect to any client. All Employees must try to avoid situations that have even the appearance of conflict or impropriety. (See also the section titled "Conflicts of Interests" in the separate Code of Conduct.)
(c) Conflicts Among Client Interests. Conflicts of interest may arise when OFI or its Employees have reason to favor the interests of one client over another client (e.g., larger accounts over smaller accounts, accounts compensated by performance fees over accounts not so compensated, accounts in which Employees have made material personal investments, accounts of close friends or relatives of Employees). Such inappropriate favoritism of one client over another client would constitute a breach of fiduciary duty and is expressly prohibited. (See also the section titled "Conflicts of Interests" in the separate Code of Conduct.)
(d) Competing with Client Trades. All Employees are prohibited from using knowledge about pending or currently considered securities transactions for clients to profit personally, directly or indirectly, as a result of such transactions, including by purchasing or selling such securities. This means that no Employee may purchase or sell a security for his or her personal account with actual knowledge that an order to buy or sell the same security has been made for an Advisory Client or is being considered for an Advisory Client until such
information is made publicly available. Conflicts raised by personal securities transactions also are addressed more specifically in Sections 7-10 of this Code.
(e) Confidentiality of Advisory Client Transactions. Until disclosed in a public report to shareholders or to the SEC in the normal course, all information concerning Securities "Being Considered for Purchase or Sale" by any Advisory Client shall be kept confidential by all Employees and disclosed by them only on a need to know basis in accordance with Policy Governing Dissemination of Fund Portfolio Holdings or any other related policies adopted by OFI from time to time. (See also the section titled "Confidentiality" in the Code of Conduct.)
(f) Disclosure of Oppenheimer Funds Portfolio Holdings. Until publicly disclosed, an Oppenheimer Fund's portfolio holdings are proprietary, confidential business information. All Employees are subject to OFI's and the Funds' separate "Policy Governing Dissemination of Fund Portfolio Holdings" which sets forth the conditions under which an Employee may disclose information about an Oppenheimer Fund's portfolio holdings. In general, the policy is designed to assure that information about portfolio holdings is distributed in a manner that conforms to applicable laws and regulations and to prevent that information from being used in a manner that could negatively affect a fund's investment program or otherwise enable third parties to use that information in a manner that is not in the best interests of a Fund. Generally, any non-public portfolio holding information may only be distributed pursuant to a confidentiality agreement approved by OFI's Legal Department.
(g) Insider Trading. All Employees are subject to OFI's separate insider trading policies and procedures which are considered an integral part of this Code. In general, all Employees are prohibited from trading, either personally or on behalf of others, while in possession of material, nonpublic information. Employees are also prohibited from communicating material nonpublic information to others in violation of the law.
(h) Personal Securities Transactions. All Employees must strictly comply with OFI's policies and procedures regarding personal securities transactions. As explained in further detail throughout this Code, the Code sets forth the certain standards for personal trading by persons subject to its provisions. For example, no Employee may purchase or sell a security for his or her personal account with actual knowledge that an order to buy or sell the same security has been made for an Advisory Client or is being considered for an Advisory Client until such information is made publicly available. In general, persons who may have greater access to investment and trading information (i.e., Access Persons and Investment Persons) are subject to greater restrictions on their trading. (See also the section titled "Personal Investing" in the Code of Conduct.)
4. DEFINITIONS - As used herein:
"Advisory Client" means any Oppenheimer Fund, other investment company or other client for which OFI act as adviser or sub-adviser.
"Access Person" means any officer, director, general partner, Investment
Person, trustee or certain other Employees (as described immediately below) of:
OFI, OFDI, CAMC, OFI
Institutional Asset Management, Inc.; HarbourView Asset Management Corporation, Trinity Investment Management Corporation; OFI Private Investments, Inc., Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc., any of the Oppenheimer Funds, any other entity adopting this Code; or any persons directly controlled by OFI who directly or indirectly control (as defined in the 1940 Act) the activities of such persons.
An Access Person also means any natural person in a control (as defined in the 1940 Act) relationship to any Oppenheimer Fund or OFI (or any company in a control relationship to an Oppenheimer Fund or OFI) who obtains information concerning recommendations made to the Fund with regard to the purchase or sale of Securities by the Fund.
Notwithstanding the definitions above, for purposes of the personal account requirements under Section 8, the reporting requirements under Section 11 and the certification requirements under Section 12 of this Code, an "Independent Director" (or a non-independent director who is not otherwise an employee of OFI or an Access Person) of an Oppenheimer Fund is NOT considered an Access Person.
An Employee also is an Access Person if:
(i) in connection with his or her regular functions or duties, that Employee makes, participates, in or obtains information regarding, the purchase or sale of a Security by an Advisory Client, or whose functions relate to the making of any recommendations with respect to such purchases or sales.
(ii) the Employee has access to timely information relating to investment management activities, research and/or client portfolio holdings and those who in the course of their employment regularly receive access to trading activity of Advisory Clients; or
(iii) the Employee has been notified in writing by the Code Administrator (or a designee) that the Employee has been designated as an Access Persons by the Code Administrator by virtue of the nature of the Employee's duties and functions.
"Beneficial Interest" means any economic interest, such as the right to share in gains or losses. This would also include any interest by which an Access Person, or any Family Member living in the same household as the Access Person, can directly or indirectly derive a monetary benefit from the purchase, sale or ownership of a Security.
For purposes of this definition and the Code, "Family Member" shall include: grandparents, parents, mother-in-law or father-in-law; husband, wife or domestic partner (whether registered or unregistered under applicable law); brother, sister, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, son-in-law or daughter-in-law; children (including step and adoptive relationships); and grandchildren. In a situation in which the status of a "Family Member" is in question, such person shall be presumed to be a "Family Member" for purposes of this Code. It is the Employee's burden to affirmatively prove to the Code Administrator that the other person at issue is not a "Family Member" within this definition.
"CAMC" means Centennial Asset Management Corporation.
"Code Administrator" is the person appointed by OFI as responsible for the day-to-day administration of the Code.
"Code of Conduct" is a separate set of guidelines that defines the standards to which all Employees of OFI and its subsidiaries and affiliates are expected to adhere during the course of their employment with, and when conducting business on behalf of, OFI.
"Code of Ethics Oversight Committee" is the committee of senior officers of
OFI having the responsibilities described in sections 14 and 15 of this Code.
The membership of the Code of Ethics Oversight Committee shall consist of the:
General Counsel of OFI, Chief Investment Officer of OFI and Chief Compliance
Officer of OFI and/or the Oppenheimer Funds, or their designees.
"Employee" means any person deemed to be an employee or "supervised person" of OFI for purposes of the Advisers Act.
"Independent Director" means any director or trustee of an Oppenheimer Fund who is not an "interested person" (as that term is defined by Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act) of the Fund. Notwithstanding the definition of an Access Person above, for purposes of this Code, an Independent Director is NOT considered an Access Person.
"Initial Public Offering" means an offering of securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ("1933 Act"), the issuer of which immediately before the registration was not subject to the reporting requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
"Investment Person" means an Access Person who is (1) a Portfolio Manager,
(2) a securities analyst or trader who provides information and advice to a
Portfolio Manager or who helps execute a Portfolio Manager's decisions, (3) any
other person who, in connection with his or her duties, makes or participates in
making recommendations regarding an Advisory Client's purchase or sale of
securities, (4) any Employee who works directly with a Portfolio Manager or in
the same department as the Portfolio Manager or (5) any natural person in a
control relationship to an Oppenheimer Fund or OFI who obtains information
concerning recommendations made to the Oppenheimer Fund with regard to the
purchase or sale of Securities by the Oppenheimer Fund.
In addition to the above definitions, an Employee is an "Investment Person" if the Employee has been notified in writing by the Code Administrator (or a designee) that the Employee has been designated as an "Investment Person" by the Code Administrator by virtue of the nature of the Employee's duties and functions.
"OFI" means any Oppenheimer Fund, Oppenheimer Funds, Inc., Centennial Asset Management Corporation ("CAMC"), OFI's other subsidiaries or directly controlled affiliates that are registered investment advisers, including OFI Institutional Asset Management, Inc.; HarbourView Asset Management Corporation, Trinity Investment Management Corporation;
OFI Private Investments, Inc. Tremont Capital Management, Inc., Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc., and OppenheimerFunds, Distributor, Inc.
"Oppenheimer Fund" means any investment company registered under the 1940 Act for which OFI or CAMC serves as the investment adviser or for which OFDI serves as the principal underwriter.
"Personal Account" means any account owned by, or in which a Beneficial Interest is owned, in the name of an OFI Employee or Access Person or any account in which an Employee or Access Person has any direct or indirect Beneficial Interest.
"Portfolio Manager" means an Access Person who has direct responsibility and authority to make investment decisions affecting a particular Advisory Client.
"Private Placement" means an offering that is exempt from registration pursuant to Section 4(2) or Section 4(6) of the 1933 Act or pursuant to rules 504, 505 or 506 under the 1933 Act.
"Security" means generally any investment, instrument, asset or holding in which an Advisory Client invests, or may consider investing.
Among other things, a "Security" includes any note, stock, treasury stock, security future, financial futures contract or option thereon, bond, debenture, evidence of indebtedness, certificate of interest or participation in any profit-sharing agreement, collateral-trust certificate, preorganization certificate or subscription, transferable share, investment contract, voting-trust certificate, certificate of deposit for a security, fractional undivided interest in oil, gas, or other mineral rights, any put, call, straddle, option, or privilege on any security (including a certificate of deposit) or on any group or index of securities (including any interest therein or based on the value thereof), or any put, call, straddle, option, or privilege entered into on a national securities exchange relating to foreign currency, or, in general, any interest or instrument commonly known as a "security," or any certificate of interest or participation in, temporary or interim certificate for, receipt for, guarantee of, or warrant or right to subscribe to or purchase any of the foregoing. References to a "Security" in the Code shall include any warrant for, option in, or security or other instrument immediately convertible into or whose value is derived from that "Security" and any instrument or right which is equivalent to that "Security."
The term "Security" specifically includes any shares issued by an investment company including exchange-traded funds (or ETFs), but for purposes of this Code, the term "Security" excludes shares issued by money market funds that comply with Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act.
"Security Held or to Be Acquired" by an Advisory Client means any Security that, within the most recent 15 days (i) is or has been held by the Advisory Client or (ii) is being considered by the Advisory Client or its investment adviser for purchase by the Advisory Client. A "Security Held or to Be Acquired" also includes any option to purchase or sell, and any security convertible into or exchangeable for, a Security.
A security is "Being Considered for Purchase or Sale" from the time an order is given by or on behalf of the Portfolio Manager to the order room of an Advisory Client until the time all orders with respect to that security are completed or withdrawn.
"Sub-Adviser" means an investment adviser that acts as an investment sub-adviser to a portfolio advised by OFI and is not affiliated with OFI.
5. ALL EMPLOYEES--RESTRICTIONS ON OUTSIDE BUSINESS ACTIVITIES
No Employee may serve as a director, trustee, officer, owner or partner of any other business organization, with or without compensation, without prior written approval of the General Counsel of OFI or his or her designee. An Employee may serve without compensation as a director, trustee, officer or representative of a non-profit organization (e.g., school board, hospital, professional or social organization) with the prior approval of the Employee's department manager. In addition to obtaining the prior approval of the Employee's manager, the Employee must promptly report such position to the Code Administrator for a determination of whether the position poses a conflict of interest with OFI or the Employee's duties to OFI. Each Employee shall be required to provide the Code Administrator a report of all such activities no less than annually. (See also the section titled "Conflicts of Interests" in the Code of Conduct.)
6. ALL EMPLOYEES--RESTRICTIONS ON GIFTS FROM BUSINESS ASSOCIATES
All Employees are subject to OFI's separate Gift Policy which is considered an integral part of this Code. In general, no Employee may accept gifts or anything else of more than a nominal amount in value (not exceeding $100 per individual on an annual basis) from any person or entity that does business with or on behalf of OFI or an Advisory Client. (See also the Gift Policy for additional guidelines and information.)
7. ALL EMPLOYEES--INVESTMENTS IN OPPENHEIMER FUNDS.
Any Employee who holds shares of Oppenheimer Funds must hold those shares in an account identified as an "OFI 401(k) account," "OFI Retirement account," "OFI Deferred Compensation account" or "OFI Employees Account." Notwithstanding the sentence above, an Employee with a Personal Account with A.G. Edwards may hold shares of the Centennial money market funds if selected as the Employee's "sweep account" option for those specific accounts.
Any Employee who holds shares of Oppenheimer Funds in other types of accounts must arrange to transfer those holdings into one of the accounts described above. Notwithstanding this requirement, an Employee who holds shares in Oppenheimer Funds in a retirement account or other qualified retirement account with another employer that cannot be transferred to one of the accounts identified above (or in an A.G. Edwards account as discussed above) is not required to transfer those shares to one of the accounts identified above provided the Employee provides a written explanation to the Code Administrator describing the circumstances that prevent him or her from transferring the shares.
OFI's policy is to prevent disruptive short-term trading in the Oppenheimer Funds. Accordingly, when purchasing, exchanging, or redeeming shares of Oppenheimer Funds, all Employees must comply in all respects with the policies and standards set forth in the funds'
prospectuses, including specifically the restrictions on market timing activities, exchanges and redemption policies.
Any Employee who redeems shares of an Oppenheimer Fund purchased within the preceding 30 days (a "short-term trade") must report that short-term trade to the Code Administrator no more than two business days after the redemption. The Employee may be required to relinquish any profit made on a short-term trade and will be subject to disciplinary action if the Employee fails to report the short-term trade or the Code Administrator determines that the short-term trade was detrimental to the interests of the Oppenheimer Fund or its shareholders. For purposes of this paragraph, a redemption includes a redemption by any means, including an exchange from the Fund.
This policy does not cover purchases, redemptions or exchanges (i) into or from money market funds, or (ii) effected on a regular periodic basis by automated means, such as monthly redemptions to a checking or savings account.
8. ALL EMPLOYEES AND ACCESS PERSONS--REQUIREMENTS FOR PERSONAL ACCOUNTS
All Employees. All Employees must obtain pre-approval before opening a new Personal Account with a financial firm or institution (e.g., broker, dealer, adviser, bank, etc.). All Employees may maintain Personal Accounts with the financial firm of their choice, provided the firm is able to provide copies of the Employees' account statements to the Code Administrator no less than annually and such statements are being provided. However, the Code of Ethics Oversight Committee reserves the right in its sole discretion to require Employees to maintain their Personal Accounts with firms designated by the Committee or to prohibit Employees from maintaining their Personal Accounts with specified firms.
Access Persons--Personal Trading Accounts. All Access Persons must obtain pre-approval before opening a new Personal Account with a financial firm. All Access Persons may maintain Personal Accounts with the financial firm of their choice, provided the firm is able to provide copies of the Access Persons' account statements to the Code Administrator no less than quarterly and such statements are being provided. However, the Code of Ethics Oversight Committee reserves the right in its sole discretion to require such Access Persons to maintain their Personal Accounts with firms designated by the Committee or to prohibit Access Persons from maintaining their Personal Accounts with specified firms.
The requirements of this section do not apply to Personal Accounts described in Section 7 in which Employees or Access Persons hold shares of an Oppenheimer Fund.
9. ACCESS PERSONS--PROHIBITED TRANSACTIONS IN SECURITIES
(NOTE: Any profits realized on trades prohibited by this Section 9 shall be subject to disgorgement.)
In addition to the prohibitions or restrictions imposed on all Employees as set forth in the prior sections, an Access Person is further prohibited from:
purchasing any Security in an Initial Public Offering or Private Placement, without pre-approval from the Code Administrator. If an Access Person seeks pre-approval for the acquisition of a Security in a Private Placement or an Initial Public Offering, the Access Person shall set forth in detail the rationale for the transaction.
purchasing or selling any interest in a collective investment vehicle that is exempt from registration under the 1933 Act, including, but not limited to, hedge funds, private funds or similar investment limited partnerships, without pre-approval from the Code Administrator;
selling a security short, except a short sale as a hedge against a long position in the same security if such short sale has been pre-approved by the Code Administrator; and
purchasing or selling in his or her Personal Account options or futures, other than options and futures related to broad-based indices, U.S. Treasury securities, currencies and long portfolio positions in the same or a substantially similar security.
Transactions Exempt from these Prohibitions. The following transactions by Access Persons are exempt from the prohibitions of this Section 9:
(i) Purchases or sales of Securities made in a Personal Account over which an Access Person has no direct or indirect influence or control, such as Personal Accounts managed by a third party over which such Access Person has no investment discretion;
(ii) Involuntary purchases or sales of Securities in a Personal Account, such as Securities received pursuant to a dividend reinvestment plan or a stock split or through a gift or bequest; or
(iii) Purchases of Securities in a Personal Account that result from the exercise of rights acquired from an issuer as part of a pro rata distribution to all holders of a class of Securities of such issuer and the sale of such rights.
Length of Pre-Approvals. Pre-approval remains in effect until the end of the next business day on which such pre-approval is granted or as otherwise specified by the Code Administrator.
10. INVESTMENT PERSONS--PROHIBITED TRANSACTIONS IN SECURITIES.
NOTE: Any profits realized on trades prohibited by this Section 10 shall be subject to disgorgement.
(NOTE: EVERY INVESTMENT PERSON ALSO IS AN ACCESS PERSON AND REMAINS SUBJECT TO THE PROHIBITIONS IN THE PREVIOUS SECTIONS.) Certain Access Persons may have greater access to Advisory Clients' information and there is an increased risk that those Access Persons may benefit from or interfere with the purchase or sale of portfolio securities by Advisory Clients. Accordingly, it is necessary to further categorize those persons as "Investment Persons." Therefore, in addition to the prohibitions or restrictions imposed on all Employees and Access Persons as set forth in the prior sections, an Investment Person is subject to the following provisions:
Each Investment Person must obtain pre-approval of all Securities transactions in his or her Personal Account, except the following:
(i) Purchases or sales of Securities made in a Personal Account over which the Investment Person has no direct or indirect influence or control, such as Personal Accounts managed by a third party over which such Investment Person has no investment discretion.
Provided, however, that for purposes of this subsection, the Investment Person claiming to have no direct or indirect influence or control over such a Personal Account, must first provide a written explanation to the Code Administrator describing the circumstances of the Personal Account and reasons why the Investment Person believe he or she does not have direct or indirect influence or control (i.e., no investment discretion) over that Personal Account and that he or she does not provide any investment advice or suggestions with respect to the Personal Account. The Code Administrator, however, reserves the right to require pre-approval of such a Personal Account. (Note: Any Personal Account covered by the provisions of this subsection remains subject to the reporting requirements in Section 11.)
(ii) Shares of any open-end Oppenheimer Fund that the Investment Person does not serve in the capacity, or perform the functions that warrant him or her to be identified as an Investment Person;
(iii) Shares of any open-end, non-Oppenheimer fund. Notwithstanding the prior sentence, pre-approval is required for transactions in: (a) an open-end investment company for which OFI serves as the investment sub-adviser and for whom the Investment Person serves in the capacity, or perform the functions, that warrant him or her to be identified as an Investment Person; and (b) exchange-traded funds (ETFs);
(iv) Securities issued by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities and government-sponsored enterprises;
(v) Bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper, and short-term debt instruments (including repurchase agreements), provided such debt instruments have a maturity at the date of issuance of less than 366 days are and rated in one of the two highest rating categories by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization;
(vi) Involuntary purchases or sales of Securities in a Personal Account, such as Securities received pursuant to a dividend reinvestment plan or a stock split or through a gift or bequest; or
(vii) Purchases of Securities in a Personal Account that result from the exercise of rights acquired from an issuer as part of a pro rata distribution to all holders of a class of Securities of such issuer and the sale of such rights; or
No Investment Person may purchase or sell any Security for his or her Personal Account within fifteen (15) calendar days before or fifteen (15) calendar days after the same Security is
purchased or sold by an Advisory Client for whom the Investment Person serves in the capacity, or performs the functions, that warrant him or her to be identified as an Investment Person. Provided however, the Code Administrator may exclude from this provision trades for an Advisory Client that are programmatic in nature and do not represent a substantive investment decision with respect to any particular Security (e.g., a program trade to sell pro-rata portions of each Security in an Advisory Client's portfolio). The Code Administrator shall maintain a record of such transactions.
No Investment Person may purchase and sell, or sell and purchase, in his or her Personal Account any Security within any period of sixty (60) calendar days, except:
(i) the instruments listed in Section 10; or
(ii) a Security sold at a loss, if the trade has been pre-approved by the Code Administrator.
If an Investment Person obtains pre-approval pursuant to this Section 10 for a transaction in a Security, and a transaction in the same Security for an Advisory Client for which that Investment Person acts as an Investment Person takes place within a period of fifteen (15) calendar days following the Investment Person's transaction, the Investment Person's transaction may be reviewed further by the Code of Ethics Oversight Committee to determine the appropriate action, if any. For example, the Committee may recommend that the Investment Person be subject to a price adjustment to ensure that he or she did not receive a better price than the Advisory Client.
No Investment Person may purchase any Security in an Initial Public Offering or Private Placement, without pre-approval from the Code Administrator. If an Investment Person seeks pre-approval for the acquisition of a Security in a Private Placement or an Initial Public Offering, the Investment Person shall set forth in detail the rationale for the transaction.
Any Investment Person who has purchased a Security in a Private Placement or an Initial Public Offering for his or her Personal Account must disclose that investment to the Code Administrator before he or she participates in the subsequent consideration of an investment in Securities of the same or a related issuer for an Advisory Client. An independent review of the proposed investment by the Advisory Client shall be conducted by Investment Persons who do not have an interest in the issuer and by the Code Administrator.
Length of Pre-Approvals. Pre-approval remains in effect until the end of the next business day on which such pre-approval is granted or as otherwise specified by the Code Administrator.
11. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
(a) All Employees.
(i) Each Employee shall arrange for duplicate copies of confirmations of all transactions and/or periodic account statements of all Personal Accounts to be sent directly to the Code Administrator.
(ii) Initial and Annual Reports. Each Employee must initially and on an annual basis thereafter, report in writing to the Code Administrator all holdings and all transactions in Securities occurring in his or her Personal Account and any new Personal Account established during the most recent year (such information to be current as of a date no more than 45 days before the report is submitted). Each initial and annual report must contain the following information:
- Name(s) in which the Personal Account is registered and the date the Personal Account was established;
- Title and type of security, number of shares, principal amount, interest rate and maturity (as applicable) of each security held in the Personal Account;
- Name of the broker, dealer or bank with which the Personal Account is maintained; and
- The date the report is submitted.
(b) Access Persons
(i) Each Access Person shall arrange for duplicate copies of confirmations of all transactions and/or periodic account statements of all Personal Accounts to be sent directly to the Code Administrator.
(ii) Quarterly Reports. Each Access Person must report in writing to the Code Administrator, within 30 days after the end of each calendar quarter, all transactions in Securities occurring in the quarter in his or her Personal Account and any new Personal Account established during the most recent calendar quarter. If there were no such transactions or new accounts, the report should state "None".
An Access Person is deemed to be in compliance with these reporting requirements if all the information required is contained in trade confirmations and/or periodic account statements previously provided to the Code Administrator for the time period covered by the quarterly report.
Each quarterly report must contain the following information with respect to each reportable transaction:
- Name(s) in which the Personal Account is registered and the date the Personal Account was established;
- Date and nature of the transaction (purchase, sale or any other type of acquisition or disposition);
- Title and type of security, number of shares, principal amount, interest rate and maturity (if applicable) of each Security and the price at which the transaction was effected;
- Name of the broker, dealer or bank with or through whom the Account was established or through which the transaction was effected; and
- The date the report is submitted.
(iii) Initial and Annual Reports. Each Access Persons shall, within 10 days after becoming an Access Person, and at least annually thereafter, provide a written holdings report to the Code Administrator with the following information (such information to be current as of a date no more than 45 days before the report is submitted):
- Name(s) in which the Personal Account is registered and the date the Personal Account was established;
- Title and type of security, number of shares, principal amount, interest rate and maturity (as applicable) of each security held in the Personal Account;
- Name of the broker, dealer or bank with which the Personal Account is maintained; and
- The date the report is submitted.
Reports submitted pursuant to this Code may contain a statement that the report is not to be construed as an admission that the Employee or Access Person has or had any direct or indirect Beneficial Interest in any Security to which the report relates.
(iv) Securities Exempt from Quarterly Reporting Requirements. Holdings of and transactions in the types of Securities listed below are exempt from the quarterly reporting requirements of the Code, and duplicate copies of confirmations and periodic statements of Personal Accounts that contain only those types of Securities do not have to be reported to the Code Administrator on a quarterly basis. Note: This exception applies only to quarterly reports. All Securities, including those listed below, must be reported on an annual basis.
The following types of Securities do not have to be included in the quarterly reports to the Code Administrator:
(i) Involuntary purchases or sales of Securities in a Personal Account, such as Securities received pursuant to a dividend reinvestment plan or a stock split or through a gift or bequest; or
(ii) Purchases of Securities in a Personal Account that result from the exercise of rights acquired from an issuer as part of a pro rata distribution to all holders of a class of Securities of such issuer and the sale of such rights.
(iii) Securities issued by the U.S. government, its agencies, instrumentalities and government-sponsored enterprises;
(iv) Bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper, short-term debt instruments (including repurchase agreements) provided such debt instruments have a maturity at the date of issuance of less than 366 days and are rated in one of the two highest rating categories by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization; or
(v) Shares of any open-end non-Oppenheimer fund. Notwithstanding the prior sentence, the following Securities must be included in quarterly reports: an open-end investment company for which OFI serves as the investment sub-adviser and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
12. CERTIFICATIONS
All Employees and Access Persons shall acknowledge that they have received the Code of Ethics and recognize that they are subject to its requirements.
All Employees and Access Persons shall certify at least annually that they have read and understand the Code of Ethics, recognize that they are subject to its requirements and have complied with the requirements of the Code of Ethics.
All Employees and Access Persons shall certify annually that they have reported all transactions in and holdings of Securities in Personal Accounts required to be reported pursuant to the Code.
13. INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS
An Independent Director (or any non-Independent Director who is not otherwise an Employee of OFI or an Access Person) is required to report only those transactions in his or her Personal Account in a Security (excluding, for purposes of this subparagraph, open-end Oppenheimer Funds) that at the time such Director knew, or in the ordinary course of fulfilling his or her duties would have had reason to know, was purchased or sold or was Being Considered for Purchase or Sale by an Advisory Client during the fifteen (15) calendar day period immediately before or after the date of the Independent Director's transaction. No report will be required for any quarter in which an Independent Director has only exempt transactions to report.
Sanctions for any violation of this Code of Ethics by an Independent Director of an Oppenheimer Fund will be determined by a majority vote of other Independent Directors of such Fund.
14. PENALTIES AND SANCTIONS
Any profits realized or losses avoided on trades prohibited by Sections 8-10 shall be subject to disgorgement.
Any violation of this Code shall be subject to the imposition of such sanctions by the Code Administrator as the Code Administrator deems appropriate under the circumstances to achieve the purposes of this Code, provided, however, if the sanctions includes suspension or
termination of employment, such suspension or termination must be approved by the Code of Ethics Oversight Committee.
Such sanctions may include, but will not necessarily be limited to, one or more of the following: a letter of censure; restitution of an amount equal to the difference between the price paid or received by the affected Advisory Client(s) and the more advantageous price paid or received by the offending person; the suspension or termination of personal trading privileges; or the suspension or termination of employment.
OFI reserves the right to take any legal action it deems appropriate against any Employee who violates any provision of this Code and to hold Employees liable for any and all damages (including, but not limited to, all costs and attorney fees) that OFI may incur as a direct or indirect result of any such Employee's violation of this Code or related law or regulation.
Review Process. An Employee may request review by the Code of Ethics Oversight Committee of a decision or determination made by the Code Administrator pursuant to this Code. The Committee, in its sole discretion, may elect to consider or reject the request for review.
15. DUTIES OF THE CODE OF ETHICS OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
The Code of Ethics Oversight Committee is responsible for establishing policies and procedures for the administration of the Code, considering and approving amendments to the Code, and reviewing and considering any decisions made by the Code Administrator upon request of an Employee or involving suspension or termination of employment. The Committee may be assisted by counsel in fulfilling its duties if deemed appropriate.
16. DUTIES OF THE CODE ADMINISTRATOR
The Code Administrator shall have the following responsibilities:
Maintaining a current list of the names of all Access Persons and Investment Persons with an appropriate description of their title or employment;
Furnishing all Employees and Access Persons with a copy of this Code and initially and periodically informing them of their duties and obligations thereunder;
Designating, as desired, appropriate personnel to review transaction and holdings reports submitted by Access Persons;
Reviewing and considering pre-approval requests from Access Persons and Investment Persons and setting forth in detail the rationale for any approvals granted to such Access Persons or Investment Persons;
Maintaining or supervising the maintenance of all records required by this Code;
Preparing listings of all transactions effected by any Access Person within fifteen (15) days of the date on which the same security was held, purchased or sold by an Advisory Client;
Issuing any interpretation of this Code that may appear consistent with the objectives of this Code;
Conducting such investigations, including scrutiny of the listings referred to in this Section 17(f) above, as shall reasonably be required to detect and report any apparent violations of this Code to the Code of Ethics Oversight Committee and to the Directors of the affected Oppenheimer Funds;
Submitting a quarterly report to the Board of Directors of each potentially affected Oppenheimer Fund of any violations of this Code and the sanction imposed as a result; any transactions suggesting the possibility of a violation; any interpretations issued by and any exemptions or waivers found appropriate by the Code Administrator; and any other significant information concerning the appropriateness of this Code.
Submitting a written report at least annually to the Board of Directors of each Oppenheimer Fund that:
(i) describes any issues arising under the Code since the last report to the Board, including, but not limited to, information about material violations of the Code or procedures and sanctions imposed in response to the material violations;
(ii) summarizes existing procedures concerning personal investing and any changes in the procedures made during the previous year;
(iii) identifies any recommended changes in existing restrictions or procedures based upon experience under the Code, evolving industry practices or developments in applicable laws or regulations;
(iv) reports with respect to the implementation of this Code through orientation and training programs and on-going reminders; and
(v) certifies that the each Oppenheimer Fund, OFI, CAMC, any OFI subsidiary or directly-controlled affiliate (as applicable), and OFDI, as applicable, has adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent Access Persons from violating the Code.
17. RECORDKEEPING
The Code Administrator shall maintain and cause to be maintained in an easily accessible place, the following records:
A copy of any Code adopted pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act or Rule 204A-1 under the Advisers Act which has been in effect during the most recent five (5) year period;
A record of any violation of any such Code, and of any action taken as a result of such violation, within five (5) years from the end of the fiscal year of OFI in which such violation occurred;
A copy of all written acknowledgements by Access Persons during the most recent five (5) year period;
A copy of each report made by a Access Person, as well as trade confirmations and/or account statements that contain information not duplicated in such reports, within five (5) years from the end of the fiscal year of OFI in which such report is made or information is provided, the first two (2) years in an easily accessible place;
A copy of each report made by the Code Administrator within five (5) years from the end of the fiscal year of OFI in which such report is made or issued, the first two (2) years in an easily accessible place;
A list, in an easily accessible place, of all persons who are, or within the most recent five (5) year period have been Access Persons or were required to make reports pursuant to Rules 17j-1 and 204A-1 and this Code or who are or were responsible for reviewing these reports; and
A record of any decision, and the reasons supporting the decision, to permit an Access Person or Investment Person to acquire a Private Placement or Initial Public Offering security, for at least five (5) years after the end of the fiscal year in which permission was granted.
18. AMENDMENTS
OFI may amend this Code as necessary or appropriate to achieve the purposes of Rules 17j-1 and 204A-1. Any material changes to this Code must be approved by the Board of Directors of each Oppenheimer Fund, including a majority of the Independent Directors, within six months after the change has been adopted by OFI.
ADOPTED BY:
Oppenheimer Funds
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc.
Centennial Asset Management Corporation
Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc.
OFI Institutional Asset Management, Inc.
HarbourView Asset Management Corporation
Trinity Investment Management, Inc.
OFI Private Investments, Inc.