AS FILED WITH THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2010
File No. 033-50718 File No. 811-07102 U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 FORM N-1A REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 [ ] POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 95 [X] AND REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 [ ] AMENDMENT NO. 97 [X] THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter) 101 Federal Street Boston, Massachusetts 02110 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Address of Principal Executive Offices, Zip Code) Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code (800) 932-7781 -------------- Philip T. Masterson c/o SEI Investments One Freedom Valley Drive Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (Name and Address of Agent for Service) Copies to: Timothy W. Levin, Esquire Christopher D. Menconi, Esquire Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP 1701 Market Street 1111 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 Washington, DC 20004 |
It is proposed that this filing become effective (check appropriate box):
[ ] Immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
[ ] On [date] pursuant to paragraph (b)
[X] 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
[ ] On [date] pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
[ ] 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
[ ] On [date] pursuant to paragraph (a) of Rule 485
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
PROSPECTUS
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
CHAMPLAIN MID CAP FUND
Ticker Symbol: CIPMX
CHAMPLAIN SMALL COMPANY FUND
Ticker Symbol: CIPSX
Advisor Shares
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
CHAMPLAIN INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LLC
THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED
THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS THIS PROSPECTUS HAS BEEN ARRANGED INTO DIFFERENT SECTIONS SO THAT YOU CAN EASILY REVIEW THIS IMPORTANT INFORMATION. FOR DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS, PLEASE SEE: PAGE CHAMPLAIN MID CAP FUND .................................................... XX INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ................................................. XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ............................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ...................................... XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ...................................................... XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION .............................................. XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ................................................... XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ................................................... XX CHAMPLAIN SMALL COMPANY FUND .............................................. XX INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ................................................. XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ............................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ...................................... XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ...................................................... XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION .............................................. XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ................................................... XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ................................................... XX SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES, TAXES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATIONS ........................................................ XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK ............................................... XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS ................................... XX INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ...................................... XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ........................................................ XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ........................................................ XX HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE DATA OF THE ADVISER ................................ XX PURCHASING, SELLING AND EXCHANGING FUND SHARES ............................ XX OTHER POLICIES ............................................................ XX SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS ........................................ XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ...................................... XX DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES ............................................... XX DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS ............................................... XX TAXES ..................................................................... XX FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS ...................................................... XX HOW TO OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS ...................... Back Cover |
The Small Company Fund is closed to investments by new shareholders and financial adviser platforms, other than those by financial advisers with existing clients in the Fund and from clients of retirement or 529 plan providers. The Fund reserves the right to permit additional investments on a case-by-case basis as deemed appropriate by and in the sole discretion of Champlain Investment Partners, LLC, the Fund's adviser.
CHAMPLAIN MID CAP FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Champlain Mid Cap Fund (the "Fund") seeks capital appreciation.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.80% ------------------------------------------------------------ Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% ------------------------------------------------------------ Other Expenses XX% ------------------------------------------------------------ Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses XX% ------------------------------------------------------------ |
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
---------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ---------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ---------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in securities of medium-sized companies. For purposes of this policy, a medium-sized company is defined as having a market capitalization of less than $15 billion at the time of purchase. The Fund seeks capital appreciation by investing mainly in common stocks of medium-sized companies that Champlain Investment Partners, LLC (the "Adviser") believes have strong long-term fundamentals, superior capital appreciation potential and attractive valuations. Through the consistent execution of a fundamental bottoms-up investment process, which includes an effort to understand a company's intrinsic or fair value, the Adviser expects to identify a diversified universe of medium-sized companies that trade at a discount to their estimated or intrinsic fair values. As such, the Adviser seeks to mitigate company-specific risk by limiting position sizes to 5% of the Fund's total assets at market value, at the time of purchase. The Adviser will sell a security when it reaches the Adviser's estimate of its fair value or when information about a security invalidates the Adviser's basis for making the investment. The Adviser may also sell securities in order to maintain the 5% limit on position sizes or when exposure to a sector exceeds the Adviser's sector weight rules.
The Fund is broadly diversified and the Adviser seeks to create value primarily through favorable stock selection.
PRINCIPAL RISKS OF INVESTING IN THE FUND
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risk factors affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
The Fund is also subject to the risk that medium-capitalization stocks may underperform other segments of the equity market or the equity market as a whole. The medium- and small-sized companies the Fund invests in may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these medium- and small-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, mid- and small-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over-the-counter or listed on an exchange.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in Advisor Shares of the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's Advisor Shares' performance from year to
year and by showing how the Fund's Advisor Shares' average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available by calling 1-866-773-3238.
----------------------------------------- 2009 XX ----------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------- BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER ----------------------------------------- XX% (XX)% ----------------------------------------- (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) ----------------------------------------- |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's Advisor Shares' performance from 1/1/2010 to 9/30/2010 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
[Returns after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares may be higher than before-tax returns when a net capital loss occurs upon the redemption of Fund
shares.] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SINCE INCEPTION 1 YEAR (JUNE 30, 2008) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURNS BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURNS AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURNS AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS AND SALE OF FUND SHARES XX% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- RUSSELL 2000 INDEX (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES OR TAXES) XX% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INVESTMENT ADVISER |
Champlain Investment Partners, LLC
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Scott T. Brayman, Chief Investment Officer and Managing Partner of the Adviser, has managed the Fund since XX.
Daniel B. Butler, CFA and Partner of the Adviser, has managed the Fund since XX.
Van Harissis, CFA and Partner of the Adviser, has managed the Fund since XX.
Deborah Healey, Securities Trader and Partner of the Adviser, has managed the Fund since XX.
Finn McCoy, Trader and Operations Analyst, has managed the Fund since XX.
David O'Neal, CFA and Partner of the Adviser, has managed the Fund since XX.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES, TAXES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES, TAXES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
CHAMPLAIN SMALL COMPANY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Champlain Small Company Fund (the "Fund") seeks capital appreciation.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.90% ---------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% ---------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% ---------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses XX% ---------------------------------------------------- |
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
------------------------------------------------ 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ------------------------------------------------ $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------------------------------ |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in securities of small companies. For purposes of this policy, a small company is defined as having a market capitalization of less than $2.5 billion at the time of purchase. The Fund seeks capital appreciation by investing mainly in common stocks of small companies that Champlain Investment Partners, LLC (the "Adviser") believes have strong long-term fundamentals, superior capital appreciation potential and attractive valuations. Through the consistent execution of a fundamental bottoms-up investment process, which includes an effort to understand a company's intrinsic or fair value, the Adviser expects to identify a diversified universe of small companies which trade at a discount to their estimated or intrinsic fair values. As such, the Adviser seeks to mitigate company specific risk by limiting position sizes to 5% of the Fund's total assets at market value. The Adviser will sell a security when it reaches the Adviser's estimate of its fair value or when information about a security invalidates the Adviser's basis for making the investment. The Adviser may also sell a security when its market capitalization exceeds $3 billion, although the Fund may hold securities whose market capitalization exceeds $3 billion if it is a constituent in a small cap benchmark. Additionally, the Adviser may also sell securities in order to maintain the 5% limit on position sizes or when exposure to a sector exceeds the Adviser's sector weight rules. The Fund is broadly diversified and seeks to create value primarily through favorable stock selection.
PRINCIPAL RISKS OF INVESTING IN THE FUND
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risk factors affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
The Fund is also subject to the risk that small capitalization stocks may underperform other segments of the equity market or the equity market as a whole. The small-capitalization companies that the Fund invests in may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small-cap stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over-the-counter or listed on an exchange.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in Advisor Shares of the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's Advisor Shares' performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's Advisor Shares' average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available by calling 1-866-773-3238.
---------------------- 2005 10.05% ---------------------- 2006 14.03% ---------------------- 2007 10.84% ---------------------- 2008 (24.04)% ---------------------- 2009 XX% ---------------------- ---------------------------------------- BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER ---------------------------------------- XX% (XX)% ---------------------------------------- (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) ---------------------------------------- |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's Advisor Shares' performance from 1/1/2010 to 9/30/2010 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
[Returns after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares may be higher than before-tax returns when a net capital loss occurs upon the redemption of Fund shares.]
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ SINCE INCEPTION (NOVEMBER 30, 1 YEAR 5 YEARS 2004) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FUND RETURNS BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FUND RETURNS AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FUND RETURNS AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS AND SALE OF FUND SHARES XX% XX% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ RUSSELL 2000 INDEX (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES OR TAXES) XX% XX% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Champlain Investment Partners, LLC
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Scott T. Brayman, Chief Investment Officer and Managing Partner of the Adviser, has managed the Fund since XX.
Daniel B. Butler, CFA and Partner of the Adviser, has managed the Fund since XX
Van Harissis, CFA and Partner of the Adviser, has managed the Fund since XX.
Deborah Healey, Securities Trader and Partner of the Adviser, has managed the Fund since XX.
Finn McCoy, Trader and Operations Analyst, has managed the Fund since XX.
David O'Neal, CFA and Partner of the Adviser, has managed the Fund since XX.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES, TAXES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES, TAXES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES, TAXES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION
PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES
To purchase shares of a Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $10,000 ($3,000 for individual retirement accounts ("IRAs")). There is no minimum for subsequent investments.
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business (a "Business Day") by contacting the Funds directly by mail at: Champlain Funds, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: DST Systems, Inc., c/o Champlain Funds, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105) or telephone at 1-866-773-3238.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares.
TAX INFORMATION
The Funds intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
If you purchase shares of the Funds through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), each Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary's web site for more information.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK
Investing in each Fund involves risk and there is no guarantee that a Fund will achieve its goal. The Adviser's judgments about the markets, the economy, or companies may not anticipate actual market movements, economic conditions or company performance, and these judgments may affect the return on your investment. In fact, no matter how good a job the Adviser does, you could lose money on your investment in a Fund, just as you could with similar investments.
The value of your investment in a Fund is based on the value of the securities the Fund holds. These prices change daily due to economic and other events that affect particular companies and other issuers. These price movements, sometimes called volatility, may be greater or lesser depending on the types of securities a Fund owns and the markets in which they trade. The effect on a Fund of a change in the value of a single security will depend on how widely the Fund diversifies its holdings.
EQUITY RISK -- Equity securities include publicly and privately issued equity securities, common and preferred stocks, warrants, rights to subscribe to common stock and convertible securities, as well as instruments that attempt to track the price movement of equity indices. Investments in equity securities and equity derivatives in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. The value of securities convertible into equity securities, such as warrants or convertible debt, is also affected by prevailing interest rates, the credit quality of the issuer and any call provision. Fluctuations in the value of equity securities in which a mutual fund invests will cause a fund's net asset value ("NAV") to fluctuate. An investment in a portfolio of equity securities may be more suitable for long-term investors who can bear the risk of these share price fluctuations.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS
The investments and strategies described in this prospectus are those that the Funds use under normal conditions. During unusual economic or market conditions, or for temporary defensive or liquidity purposes, each Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in money market instruments or other cash equivalents that would not ordinarily be consistent with its investment objective. If a Fund invests in this manner, it may not achieve its investment objective. A Fund will do so only if the Adviser believes that the risk of loss outweighs the opportunity to pursue its investment objective.
This prospectus describes the Funds' principal investment strategies, and the Funds will normally invest in the types of securities described in this prospectus. In addition to the securities and other investments and strategies described in this prospectus, each Fund also may invest, to a lesser extent, in other securities, use other strategies and engage in other investment practices that are not part of its principal investment strategy. These investments and strategies are described in detail in the Funds' Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") (for information on how to obtain a copy of the SAI see the back cover of this prospectus). Of course, there is no guarantee that a Fund will achieve its investment goal.
INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
A description of the Funds' policy and procedures with respect to the circumstances under which the Funds disclose their portfolio securities is available in the SAI. Certain portfolio holdings information for the Funds is available on the Funds' website -- www.cipvt.com -- by clicking the "Investment Overview" link on the homepage followed by the "Products" link followed by the "Fact Sheet" link on the "Investment Products" page. By clicking these links, you can obtain a list of each Fund's top 10 portfolio holdings as of the end of the most recent calendar quarter. The portfolio holdings information available on the Funds' website includes a top 10 list of the securities owned by each Fund and the percentage of
each Fund's overall portfolio represented by each listed security. In addition, the website includes a list of the sectors represented in each Fund's portfolio. The portfolio holdings information on the Funds' website is generally made available 7 to 10 business days following the close of the most recently completed calendar quarter and will remain available until the information is updated following the close of the next calendar quarter.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Champlain Investment Partners, LLC makes investment decisions for the Funds and continuously reviews, supervises and administers each Fund's investment program. The Trust's Board of Trustees supervises the Adviser and establishes policies that the Adviser must follow in its management activities.
The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, Vermont 05401. As of September 30, 2010, the Adviser had approximately $XX billion in assets under management. For its services, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.80% and 0.90% based on the average daily net assets of the Mid Cap Fund and the Small Company Fund, respectively. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its fees and reimburse expenses in order to keep total annual fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, acquired Fund fees and expenses, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 1.30% and 1.40% of the Mid Cap Fund and Small Company Fund's Advisor Shares' average daily net assets, respectively. The Adviser intends to continue these expense limitations until further notice, but may discontinue all or a portion of its fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual Fund operating expenses and 1.30% and 1.40% for the Mid Cap Fund and Small Company Fund, respectively, to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expense reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period during which the agreement was in place. For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Adviser received advisory fees (after expense reductions and reimbursements), stated as a percentage of average daily net assets, at an annual rate of XX% and XX% from the Mid Cap Fund and Small Company Fund, respectively.
A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the Funds' investment advisory agreement is available in the Fund's Annual Report to Shareholders dated July 31, 2008.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
The Funds are managed by a team of investment professionals headed by Scott T. Brayman, Chartered Financial Analyst ("CFA"). The SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed and ownership of Fund shares.
Mr. Scott T. Brayman has served as Chief Investment Officer and Managing Partner of the Adviser since September 2004. In addition, Mr. Brayman has led the Adviser's investment team since the firm's inception in September 2004. Prior to joining the Adviser, Mr. Brayman was a Senior Vice President at NL Capital Management, Inc. ("NL Capital") and served as a portfolio manager at Sentinel Advisors Company ("Sentinel") where he was employed from June 1995 to September 2004. At Sentinel he was responsible for managing small-cap and core mid-cap strategies. Prior to joining NL Capital and Sentinel, he served as a portfolio manager and Director of Marketing at Argyle Capital Management in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Mr. Brayman began his career as a credit analyst with the First National Bank of Maryland. Mr. Brayman graduated cum laude from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. He earned his CFA designation in 1995 and is a member of the CFA Institute and the Vermont CFA Society. He has more than 25 years of investment experience.
Mr. Daniel B. Butler, CFA, and Partner of the Adviser, has been a member of the investment team since September 2004. Prior to joining the Adviser, Mr. Butler was a Vice President and Analyst at NL Capital from August 2004 to September 2004. From June 1998 to July 2004, Mr. Butler was a Senior Equity Analyst for Principal Global Investors where he followed the technology sector for the firm's small-cap portfolio managers. Additionally, Mr. Butler held an analyst position at Raymond James Financial from September 1994 to June 1996. Mr. Butler graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and received his Master's in Business Administration from Indiana University. He earned his CFA designation in 2001 and is a member of the CFA Institute and the Vermont CFA Society. He has more than 14 years of investment experience.
Mr. Van Harissis, CFA, has been a member of the investment team and Partner of the Adviser since September 2004. Prior to joining the Adviser, Mr. Harissis was a Senior Vice President at NL Capital, and served as a portfolio manager at Sentinel from June 1999 to September 2004. At Sentinel he was responsible for managing large-cap core equity and balanced strategies. Prior to joining NL Capital and Sentinel, he served as Managing Director and as a portfolio manager at Phoenix Investment Partners, Ltd. Mr. Harissis graduated cum laude from the University of Rochester with a Bachelor's Degree in Economics and received his Master's in Business Administration from the Johnson Graduate School of Management at Cornell University. He earned his CFA designation in 1989 and is a member of the CFA Institute and the Vermont CFA Society. He has more than 26 years of investment experience.
Ms. Deborah Healey has been a securities trader and Partner of the Adviser since September 2004. Prior to joining the Adviser, Ms. Healey was a Vice President and small cap equity trader at NL Capital from October 2003 to September 2004. From June 1994 to May 2002, she served as a Senior Vice President and Senior Equity Trader at Putnam Investments, where she was responsible for trading all equities within the financial, capital goods and conglomerates sectors. Before Putnam's move to sector trading, she handled all trading for several small cap managers. Ms. Healey was an active participant in the design and implementation of Putnam's internal trading systems. Prior to joining Putnam Investments, she served as a Senior Equity Trader at Fidelity Investments. Ms. Healey graduated from Dartmouth College with a Bachelor's Degree in Government. She has more than 24 years of investment experience.
Mr. Finn McCoy has been a Trader and Operations Analyst since 2006. Prior to joining the Adviser, Mr. McCoy held internships with the offices of United States Senators Patrick Leahy and James Jeffords, as well as a semester studying abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Mr. McCoy graduated with honors with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of Vermont in May 2006. He has more than 4 years of investment experience.
Mr. David O'Neal, CFA, has been a member of the investment team and Partner of the Adviser since September 2004. Prior to joining the Adviser, Mr. O'Neal was a Vice President and healthcare analyst for small-cap and mid-cap core strategies at NL Capital from January 2003 to September 2004. From February 1997 to June 2002, he served as Senior Research Analyst at Midwest Research/First Tennessee Securities. Additionally, Mr. O'Neal has over 12 years of experience in the healthcare market as a hospital manager and healthcare consultant. Mr. O'Neal graduated cum laude from Vanderbilt University with a Bachelor's Degree in Economics and Mathematics and received his Master's in Business Administration from the University of Chicago. He earned his CFA designation in 2002 and is a member of the CFA Institute and the Vermont CFA Society. He has more than 14 years of investment experience.
PERFORMANCE OF COMPARABLE ACCOUNT
The information set forth below represents the performance of another mutual fund managed by Mr. Brayman with an investment strategy substantially similar to that of the Small Company Fund. Past performance is no guarantee of future performance and should not be considered as a representation of the future results of the Small Company Fund. The table compares the average annual total returns of the
other mutual fund managed by Mr. Brayman to the Russell 2000 Index, an unmanaged index generally representative of the market for stocks of small U.S. companies.
The performance information shown below from January 1, 1996 through December 31, 2003 is the performance of the Sentinel Funds' Small Company Fund (the "Sentinel Fund"), a registered mutual fund managed principally by Mr. Brayman while at Sentinel Advisors Company. The Sentinel Fund had substantially similar investment objectives, policies and strategies as those of the Small Company Fund. The performance information of the Sentinel Fund reflects the sales charges and operating expenses of the Sentinel Fund's Class A Shares. The Small Company Fund's Advisor Shares are not subject to sales charges, however, operating expenses of the Small Company Fund's Advisor Shares are higher than those of the Sentinel Fund's Class A Shares. If the Sentinel Fund's Class A Shares' performance information (without sales charges) was calculated based on the operating expenses of the Small Company Fund's Advisor Shares, the performance information shown below would have been lower.
THE BAR CHART AND PERFORMANCE TABLE THAT FOLLOW DO NOT SHOW THE PERFORMANCE OF THE SMALL COMPANY FUND. THEY SHOW THE PERFORMANCE OF THE SENTINEL FUND, A SIMILAR MUTUAL FUND MANAGED BY MR. BRAYMAN. MR. BRAYMAN'S PAST PERFORMANCE IN MANAGING THIS SIMILAR MUTUAL FUND IS NO GUARANTEE OF THE FUTURE PERFORMANCE OF THE SMALL COMPANY FUND.
THIS TABLE COMPARES THE SENTINEL FUND'S AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR THE PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2003, TO THOSE OF THE RUSSELL 2000 INDEX.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS SINCE INCEPTION(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURNS (WITH SALES CHARGE)(2) 31.18% 5.69% 13.58% 14.62% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURNS (WITHOUT SALES CHARGE) 38.09% 7.51% 14.75% 15.35% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- RUSSELL 2000 INDEX (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES OR TAXES) (3) 47.25% 6.27% 7.13% 8.78% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Mr. Brayman began managing the Fund on January 1, 1996.
(2) Reflects maximum sales charge of 5.00% applicable to Class A Shares of the
Sentinel Fund. Advisor Shares of the Fund are not sold subject to a sales
charge.
(3) The Russell 2000 Index is a widely-recognized, capitalization-weighted
index that measures the performance of the smallest 2,000 companies in the
Russell 3000 Index. The Russell 3000 Index is a widely-recognized,
capitalization- weighted index that measures the performance of the 3,000
largest U.S. companies based on total market capitalization, which
represents approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equity market.
THIS BAR CHART SHOWS CHANGES IN THE PERFORMANCE OF THE SENTINEL FUND'S CLASS A
SHARES. SALES CHARGES ARE NOT REFLECTED IN THE BAR CHART. IF SALES CHARGES WERE REFLECTED, RETURNS WOULD BE LESS THAN THOSE SHOWN.
------------------------ 1996 21.30% ------------------------ 1997 21.20% ------------------------ 1998 7.20% ------------------------ 1999 15.10% ------------------------ 2000 39.10% ------------------------ 2001 4.80% ------------------------ 2002 (14.10)% ------------------------ 2003 38.10% ------------------------ |
THE PERFORMANCE INFORMATION SHOWN ABOVE IS BASED ON A CALENDAR YEAR. THE SENTINEL FUND'S TOTAL RETURN FROM JANUARY 1, 2004 TO AUGUST 31, 2004 WAS 1.60%.
HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE DATA OF THE ADVISER
The following tables give the historical performance of actual, fee-paying separate accounts, referred to as a "Composite," managed by the Adviser that have investment objectives, policies, strategies and risks substantially similar to those of the Mid Cap Fund. The Composite does not reflect all of the firm's assets under management. The data illustrates the past performance of the Adviser in managing substantially similar accounts. THE DATA DOES NOT REPRESENT THE PERFORMANCE OF THE MID CAP FUND. Performance is historical and does not represent the future performance of the Mid Cap Fund or of the Adviser.
The manner in which the performance was calculated for the Composite differs from that of registered mutual funds such as the Mid Cap Fund. This composite performance data was calculated in accordance with the standards of the Chartered Financial Analyst Institute (CFAI[R])1. All returns presented were calculated on a total return basis and include all dividends and interest and realized and unrealized gains and losses. Except as otherwise noted, all returns reflect the payment of investment management fees, brokerage commissions, and execution costs paid by the accounts included in the composite, without taking into account federal or state income taxes. Custodial fees, if any, were not included in the calculations. Securities are valued as of trade-date. Accounts in the Composite were under management for the entire reporting period from the inception of each account.
The currency used to express performance in the Composite is U.S. dollars. Because of variation in total expense levels, the Composite returns may not be reflective of performance in any one particular account. Therefore, the performance information shown below is not necessarily representative of the performance information that typically would be shown for a registered mutual fund.
The accounts that are included in the Composite are not subject to the same type of expenses to which the Mid Cap Fund is subject and are not subject to the diversification requirements, specific tax restrictions, and investment limitations imposed by the federal securities and tax laws. Consequently, the performance results for the Composite could have been adversely affected if the accounts in the Composite were subject to the same federal securities tax laws as the Mid Cap Fund. In addition, the accounts are not subject to the same adverse effects of cash inflows and outflows of investor money that a public mutual fund such as the Mid Cap Fund may be subject to, and accordingly the performance of the accounts may be higher than for a public mutual fund managed under the same investment strategy.
The investment results for the Composite presented below are not intended to predict or suggest the future returns of the Mid Cap Fund. The performance data shown below should not be considered a substitute for the Mid Cap Fund's own performance information. Investors should be aware that the use of a methodology different than that used below to calculate performance could result in different performance data.
THE ADVISER'S MID-CAP COMPOSITE CHARACTERISTICS(2)
(MARCH 26, 2004 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2009)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TOTAL ASSETS COMPOSITE OF INCLUDED COMPOSITE TOTAL TOTAL RETURN RUSSELL MID PORTFOLIOS AT TOTAL FIRM PERCENT OF RETURN (GROSS OF CAP NUMBER OF END OF PERIOD ASSETS FIRM YEAR (NET OF FEES)(3) FEES) INDEX(4,5) PORTFOLIOS (IN MILLIONS) (IN MILLIONS) ASSETS DISPERSION(6) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2009 XX% XX% XX% XX $XX $XX XX% XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2008 (26.13)% (25.71)% (41.46)% 7 $117.20 $1,803 6.50% N/A ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2007 15.54% 16.55% 5.69% 3 $43.98 $1,368 3.21% N/A ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2006 9.21% 10.30% 15.58% 1 $0.60 $587 0.10% N/A ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2005 11.90% 13.04% 12.70% 1 $0.55 $219 0.25% N/A ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2004 12.20% 13.11% 16.87% 1 $0.49 $113 0.43% N/A ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) CFAI is an international, nonprofit organization of more than 50,000
investment practitioners and educators in over 100 countries. CFAI offers
services in three broad categories: Education through seminars and
publications; Professional Conduct and Ethics; and Standards of Practice
and Advocacy. These CFAI performance presentation standards are intended to
(i) promote full and fair presentations by investment advisers of their
performance results and (ii) ensure uniformity in reporting so that
performance results of the investment advisers are directly comparable.
CFAI performance presentation standards differ from SEC standards for
calculating performance for mutual funds. The Adviser has prepared and
presented this report in compliance with the Global Investment Performance
Standards (GIPS[R]) . CFAI has not been involved in the preparation or
review of this report.
(2) Results shown for the year 2004 represent partial period performance from March 26, 2004 through December 31, 2004. The calculation of returns is computed on a monthly basis thereafter. Returns are asset weighted. Actual results may vary depending on level of assets and fee schedule. Performance results include any dividend and interest income and are net of management fees (0.80% annually) and other expenses.
(3) The Mid Cap Composite was created September 17, 2004. Performance presented prior to September 17, 2004 occurred while the Portfolio Managers were affiliated with a prior firm and Scott Brayman was the only individual responsible for selecting the securities to buy and sell.
(4) The Russell Mid Cap Index is a widely-recognized, capitalization-weighted index that measures the performance of the smallest 800 companies in the Russell 1000 Index. The Russell 1000 Index is a widely-recognized, capitalization-weighted index that measures the performance of the 1000 largest U.S. companies based on total market capitalization, which represents approximately 92% of the investable U.S. equity market.
(5) The comparative benchmark returns include interest and dividend income but do not include taxes, potential transaction costs or management fees.
(6) The dispersion of annual returns is measured by the standard deviation among asset-weighted portfolio returns represented within the composite for the full year. Dispersion is not calculated for composites with less than five accounts for the whole period.
PURCHASING, SELLING AND EXCHANGING FUND SHARES
This section tells you how to purchase, sell (sometimes called "redeem") and exchange shares of the Funds.
Advisor Shares of the Funds are for individual and retail investors.
HOW TO PURCHASE FUND SHARES
To purchase shares directly from the Funds through their transfer agent, complete and send in the application. If you need an application or have questions, please call 1-866-773-3238.
All investments must be made by check, Automated Clearing House (ACH), or wire. All checks must be made payable in U.S. dollars and drawn on U.S. financial institutions. The Funds do not accept purchases made by third-party checks, credit cards, credit card checks, cash, traveler's checks, money orders or cashier's checks.
The Funds reserve the right to reject any specific purchase order for any reason. The Funds are not intended for short-term trading by shareholders in response to short-term market fluctuations. For more information about the Funds' policy on short-term trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
The Funds do not generally accept investments by non-U.S. persons. Non-U.S. persons may be permitted to invest in the Funds subject to the satisfaction of enhanced due diligence. Please contact the Funds for more information.
BY MAIL
You can open an account with the Funds by sending a check and your account application to the address below. You can add to an existing account by sending the Funds a check and, if possible, the "Invest by Mail" stub that accompanies your statement. Be sure your check identifies clearly your name, your account number and the Fund name.
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
Champlain Funds
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
DST Systems, Inc.
c/o Champlain Funds
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
BY WIRE
To open an account by wire, first call 1-866-773-3238 for details. To add to an existing account by wire, wire your money using the wiring instructions set forth below (be sure to include the Fund name and your account number).
WIRING INSTRUCTIONS
UMB Bank, N.A.
ABA #101000695
Champlain Funds
DDA Account #9870523965
Ref: Fund name/account number/account name
BY AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN (VIA AUTOMATED CLEARING HOUSE OR "ACH")
You may not open an account via ACH. However, once you have established an account, you can set up an automatic investment plan by mailing a completed application to the Funds. These purchases can be
made monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually in amounts of at least $25. To cancel or change a plan, write to the Funds at: Champlain Funds, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: DST Systems, Inc. c/o Champlain Funds, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105). Allow up to 15 days to create the plan and 3 days to cancel or change it.
MINIMUM PURCHASES
To purchase Advisor Shares of either Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $10,000 ($3,000 for IRA accounts). There is no minimum for subsequent investments. A Fund may accept investments of smaller amounts in its sole discretion.
FUND CODES
The Fund's reference information, which is listed below, will be helpful to you when you contact the Fund to purchase or exchange Advisor Shares, check a Fund's daily NAV or obtain additional information.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND NAME SHARE CLASS TRADING SYMBOL CUSIP FUND CODE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champlain Mid Cap Fund Advisor Shares CIPMX 00764Q744 1354 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champlain Small Company Fund Advisor Shares CIPSX 00764Q405 1352 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
GENERAL INFORMATION
You may purchase shares on any Business Day. Shares cannot be purchased by Federal Reserve wire on days when either the NYSE or the Federal Reserve is closed. The price per share will be the net asset value ("NAV") next determined after a Fund receives your purchase order in proper form. "Proper form" means that a Fund was provided a complete and signed account application, including the investor's social security number, tax identification number, and other identification required by law or regulation, as well as sufficient purchase proceeds.
Each Fund calculates its NAV once each Business Day as of the close of normal trading on the NYSE (normally, 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time). To receive the current Business Day's NAV, a Fund or an authorized institution must receive your purchase order in proper form before 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time. If the NYSE closes early -- such as on days in advance of certain holidays -- the Fund reserves the right to calculate NAV as of the earlier closing time. Shares will not be priced on days that the NYSE is closed for trading, including nationally observed holidays. The Funds will not accept orders that request a particular day or price for the transaction or any other special conditions.
BUYING OR SELLING SHARES THROUGH A FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY
In addition to being able to buy and sell Fund shares directly from the Funds through their transfer agent, you may also purchase or sell shares of the Funds through accounts financial intermediaries such as brokers and other institutions that are authorized to place trades in Fund shares for their customers ("authorized institutions"). When you buy or sell Fund shares through certain authorized institutions (rather than directly from the Funds), you may have to transmit your purchase and sale requests to these authorized institutions at an earlier time for your transaction to become effective that day. This allows these authorized institutions time to process your requests and transmit them to the Funds. Your authorized institution is responsible for transmitting all purchase and sale requests, investment
information, documentation and money to the Funds on time. If your authorized institution fails to do so, it may be responsible for any resulting fees or losses.
Certain authorized institutions, including certain broker-dealers and shareholder organizations, are authorized to act as agent on behalf of the Funds with respect to the receipt of purchase and sale requests for Fund shares. These requests are executed at the NAV next determined after the institution receives the request if transmitted to the Funds' transfer agent in accordance with the Funds' procedures and applicable law. To determine whether your authorized institution is authorized to act as an agent on behalf of the Funds with respect to purchase and redemption requests for Fund shares, you should contact them directly.
If you deal directly with an authorized institution, you will have to follow their procedures for transacting with the Funds. Your authorized institution may charge a fee for your purchase and/or redemption transactions. For more information about how to purchase or sell Fund shares through an authorized institution, you should contact your authorized institution directly.
HOW THE FUNDS CALCULATE NAV
NAV for one Fund share is the value of that share's portion of all of the net assets of the Fund. In calculating NAV, each Fund generally values its investment portfolio at market price. If market prices are not readily available or a Fund reasonably believes that they are unreliable, such as in the case of a security value that has been materially affected by events occurring after the relevant market closes, the Fund is required to price those securities at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Funds' Board of Trustees (the "Board"). Pursuant to the policies adopted by, and under the ultimate supervision of the Board, these methods are implemented through the Funds' Fair Value Committee, members of which are appointed by the Board. A Fund's determination of a security's fair value price often involves the consideration of a number of subjective factors, and is therefore subject to the unavoidable risk that the value that a Fund assigns to a security may be higher or lower than the security's value would be if a reliable market quotation for the security was readily available.
Although the Funds invest primarily in the stocks of U.S. companies that are traded on U.S. exchanges, there may be limited circumstances in which a Fund would price securities at fair value -- for example, if the exchange on which a portfolio security is principally traded closed early or if trading in a particular security was halted during the day and did not resume prior to the time a Fund calculated its NAV.
HOW TO SELL YOUR FUND SHARES
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any Business Day by contacting the Funds' transfer agent directly by mail or telephone.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares. Your broker or institution may charge a fee for its services, in addition to the fees charged by the Funds.
BY MAIL
To redeem shares by mail, please send a letter to the Funds signed by all registered parties on the account specifying:
o The Fund name;
o The account number;
o The dollar amount or number of shares you wish to redeem;
o The account name(s); and
o The address to which redemption (sale) proceeds should be sent.
All registered shareholders must sign the letter in the exact name(s) and must designate any special capacity in which they are registered.
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
Champlain Funds
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
DST Systems, Inc.
c/o Champlain Funds
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
Certain redemption requests require signature guarantees by a bank or member firm of a national securities exchange. For example, signature guarantees may be required if your address of record or banking instructions have recently been changed, or if you ask that the proceeds be sent to a different person or address. Signature guarantees are for the protection of shareholders. Before granting a redemption request, a Fund may require a shareholder to furnish additional legal documents to insure proper authorization.
BY TELEPHONE
You must first establish the telephone redemption privilege (and, if desired, the wire redemption privilege) by completing the appropriate sections of the account application.
Call 1-866-773-3238 to redeem your shares. Based on your instructions, the Funds will mail your proceeds to you or send them to your bank via wire or ACH.
BY SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN (VIA ACH)
If your account balance is at least $25,000, you may transfer as little as $100 per month from your account to another financial institution through a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (via ACH). To participate in this service, you must complete the appropriate sections of the account application and mail it to the Funds.
RECEIVING YOUR MONEY
Normally, the Funds will send your sale proceeds within seven days after a Fund receives your request. Your proceeds can be wired to your bank account (may be subject to a $10 fee), sent to you by check or sent via ACH to your bank account once you have established banking instructions with the Funds. IF YOU ARE SELLING SHARES THAT WERE RECENTLY PURCHASED BY CHECK OR THROUGH ACH, REDEMPTION PROCEEDS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE UNTIL YOUR CHECK HAS CLEARED OR THE ACH TRANSACTION HAS BEEN COMPLETED (WHICH MAY TAKE UP TO 15 DAYS FROM YOUR DATE OF PURCHASE).
REDEMPTIONS IN KIND
The Funds generally pay sale (redemption) proceeds in cash. However, under unusual conditions that make the payment of cash unwise and for the protection of a Fund's remaining shareholders, the Fund might pay all or part of your redemption proceeds in securities with a market value equal to the redemption price (redemption in kind). It is highly unlikely that your shares would ever be redeemed in kind, but if they were, you would have to pay transaction costs to sell the securities distributed to you, as well as taxes on any capital gains from the sale as with any redemption. In addition, you would continue to be subject to the risks of any market fluctuation in the value of the securities you receive in kind until they are sold.
INVOLUNTARY REDEMPTIONS OF YOUR SHARES
If your account balance drops below $10,000 because of redemptions you may be required to sell your shares. The Funds will provide you at least 30 days' written notice to give you sufficient time to add to your account and avoid the sale of your shares.
SUSPENSION OF YOUR RIGHT TO SELL YOUR SHARES
The Funds may suspend your right to sell your shares during times when trading on the NYSE is restricted or halted, or otherwise as permitted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). More information about this is in the SAI.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
Purchasing and selling Fund shares over the telephone is extremely convenient, but not without risk. Although the Funds have certain safeguards and procedures to confirm the identity of callers and the authenticity of instructions, the Funds are not responsible for any losses or costs incurred by following telephone instructions it reasonably believes to be genuine. If you or your financial intermediary transact with the Funds over the telephone, you will generally bear the risk of any loss.
EXCHANGING SHARES
At no charge, you may exchange Advisor Shares of a Champlain Fund for Advisor Shares of another Champlain Fund by writing to or calling the Funds. You may only exchange shares between accounts with identical registrations (i.e., the same names and addresses).
The exchange privilege is not intended as a vehicle for short-term or excessive trading. A Fund may suspend or terminate your exchange privilege if you engage in a pattern of exchanges that is excessive, as determined in the sole discretion of the Funds. For more information about the Fund's policy on excessive trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
OTHER POLICIES
EXCESSIVE TRADING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Funds are intended for long-term investment purposes only and discourage shareholders from engaging in "market timing" or other types of excessive short-term trading. This frequent trading into and out of a Fund may present risks to the Fund's long-term shareholders, and could adversely affect shareholder returns. The risks posed by frequent trading include interfering with the efficient
implementation of a Fund's investment strategy, triggering the recognition of taxable gains and losses on the sale of Fund investments, requiring the Fund to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemption requests, and experiencing increased transaction costs.
Because the Funds invest in small- and mid-cap securities, which often trade in lower volumes and may be less liquid, the Funds may be more susceptible to the risks posed by frequent trading because frequent transactions in the Funds' shares may have a greater impact on the market prices of these types of securities.
The Funds' service providers will take steps reasonably designed to detect and deter frequent trading by shareholders pursuant to the Funds' policies and procedures described in this prospectus and approved by the Funds' Board of Trustees. For purposes of applying these policies, the Funds' service providers may consider the trading history of accounts under common ownership or control. The Funds' policies and procedures include:
o Shareholders are restricted from making more than five "round trips," including exchanges into or out of a Fund, per calendar year. If a shareholder exceeds this amount, the Fund and/or its service providers may, at their discretion, reject any additional purchase orders. The Funds define a round trip as a purchase into a Fund by a shareholder, followed by a subsequent redemption out of the Fund, of an amount the Adviser reasonably believes would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
o The Funds reserve the right to reject any purchase request by any investor or group of investors for any reason without prior notice, including, in particular, if a Fund or its Adviser reasonably believes that the trading activity would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
The Funds and/or their service providers seek to apply these policies to the best of their abilities uniformly and in a manner they believe is consistent with the interests of the Funds' long-term shareholders. Although these policies are designed to deter frequent trading, none of these measures alone nor all of them taken together eliminate the possibility that frequent trading in the Funds will occur. Systematic purchases and redemptions are exempt from these policies.
Financial intermediaries (such as investment advisers and broker-dealers) often establish omnibus accounts in the Funds for their customers through which transactions are placed. In accordance with Rule 22c-2 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), the Funds have entered into information sharing agreements with certain financial intermediaries. Under these agreements, a financial intermediary is obligated to: (1) enforce during the term of the agreement, the Funds' market-timing policy; (2) furnish the Funds, upon their request, with information regarding customer trading activities in shares of the Funds; and (3) enforce the Funds' market-timing policy with respect to customers identified by the Funds as having engaged in market timing. When information regarding transactions in the Funds' shares is requested by a Fund and such information is in the possession of a person that is itself a financial intermediary to a financial intermediary (an "indirect intermediary"), any financial intermediary with whom the Funds have an information sharing agreement is obligated to obtain transaction information from the indirect intermediary or, if directed by the Funds, to restrict or prohibit the indirect intermediary from purchasing shares of the Funds on behalf of other persons. Please contact your financial intermediary for more information.
CUSTOMER IDENTIFICATION AND VERIFICATION
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account.
What this means to you: When you open an account, the Funds will ask your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow the Funds to identify you. This information is subject to verification to ensure the identity of all persons opening a mutual fund account.
The Funds are required by law to reject your new account application if the required identifying information is not provided.
In certain instances, the Funds are required to collect documents to fulfill their legal obligation. Documents provided in connection with your application will be used solely to establish and verify a customer's identity.
Attempts to collect the missing information required on the application will be performed by either contacting you or, if applicable, your broker. If this information cannot be obtained within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Funds, your application will be rejected.
Upon receipt of your application in proper form (or upon receipt of all identifying information required on the application), your investment will be accepted and your order will be processed at the next-determined NAV.
Each Fund reserves the right to close or liquidate your account at the NAV next determined and remit proceeds to you via check if it is unable to verify your identity. Attempts to verify your identity will be performed within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Funds. Further, each Fund reserves the right to hold your proceeds until your original check clears the bank, which may take up to 15 days from the date of purchase. In such an instance, you may be subject to a gain or loss on Fund shares and will be subject to corresponding tax implications.
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING PROGRAM
Customer identification and verification is part of the Funds' overall obligation to deter money laundering under federal law. The Funds have adopted an anti-money laundering compliance program designed to prevent the Funds from being used for money laundering or the financing of illegal activities. In this regard, the Funds reserve the right to: (i) refuse, cancel or rescind any purchase or exchange order; (ii) freeze any account and/or suspend account services; or (iii) involuntarily close your account in cases of threatening conduct or suspected fraudulent or illegal activity. These actions will be taken when, in the sole discretion of Fund management, they are deemed to be in the best interest of a Fund or in cases when a Fund is requested or compelled to do so by governmental or law enforcement authority. If your account is closed at the request of governmental or law enforcement authority, you may not receive proceeds of the redemption if the Funds are required to withhold such proceeds.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS
The Funds may compensate financial intermediaries for providing a variety of services to shareholders. Financial intermediaries include affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with a Fund, its service providers or their respective affiliates. This section and the following section briefly describe how financial intermediaries may be paid for providing these services.
The Funds generally pay financial intermediaries a fee that is based on the assets of the Fund that are attributable to investments by customers of the financial intermediary. The services for which financial
intermediaries are compensated may include record-keeping, transaction processing for shareholders' accounts and other shareholder services. In addition to these payments, your financial intermediary may charge you account fees, transaction fees for buying or redeeming shares of a Fund, or other fees for servicing your account. Your financial intermediary should provide a schedule of its fees and services to you upon request. The Funds do not pay these service fees on shares purchased directly. In addition to payments made directly to financial intermediaries by the Funds, the Adviser or its affiliates may, at their own expense, pay financial intermediaries for these and other services to Fund shareholders, as described in the section below.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
From time to time, the Adviser and/or its affiliates, at their discretion, may make payments to certain affiliated or unaffiliated financial intermediaries to compensate them for the costs associated with distribution, marketing, administration and shareholder servicing support. These payments may be in addition to any Rule 12b-1 fees that are reflected in the fees and expenses listed in the fee table section of this prospectus. These payments are sometimes characterized as "revenue sharing" payments and are made out of the Adviser's and/or its affiliates' own legitimate profits or other resources, and are not paid by the Funds. A financial intermediary may provide these services with respect to Fund shares sold or held through programs such as retirement plans, qualified tuition programs, fund supermarkets, fee-based advisory or wrap fee programs, bank trust programs, and insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. In addition, financial intermediaries may receive payments for making shares of the Funds available to their customers or registered representatives, including providing the Funds with "shelf space," placing it on a preferred or recommended fund list, or promoting the Funds in certain sales programs that are sponsored by financial intermediaries. To the extent permitted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") rules and other applicable laws and regulations, the Adviser and/or its affiliates may pay or allow other promotional incentives or payments to financial intermediaries. For more information please see "Payments to Financial Intermediaries" in the Funds' SAI.
The level of payments to individual financial intermediaries varies in any given year and may be negotiated on the basis of sales of Fund shares, the amount of Fund assets serviced by the financial intermediary or the quality of the financial intermediary's relationship with the Adviser and/or its affiliates. These payments may be more or less than the payments received by the financial intermediaries from other mutual funds and may influence a financial intermediary to favor the sales of certain funds or share classes over others. In certain instances, the payments could be significant and may cause a conflict of interest for your financial intermediary. Any such payments will not change the net asset value or price of a Fund's shares. Please contact your financial intermediary for information about any payments it may receive in connection with the sale of Fund shares or the provision of services to Fund shareholders, as well as information about any fees and/or commissions it charges.
DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES
Each Fund has adopted a distribution plan under Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, for Advisor Shares that allows the Fund to pay distribution and service fees for the sale and distribution of its shares, and for services provided to shareholders. Because these fees are paid out of a Fund's assets continuously, over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges. The maximum annual distribution fee for Advisor Shares of each Fund is 0.25% .
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
Each Fund distributes its net investment income and makes distributions of its net realized capital gains, if any, at least annually. If you own Fund shares on a Fund's record date, you will be entitled to receive the distribution.
You will receive dividends and distributions in the form of additional Fund shares unless you elect to receive payment in cash. To elect cash payment, you must notify the Funds in writing prior to the date of the distribution. Your election will be effective for dividends and distributions paid after the Funds receive your written notice. To cancel your election, simply send the Funds written notice.
TAXES
PLEASE CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISOR REGARDING YOUR SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ABOUT FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL INCOME TAXES. Below is a summary of some important tax issues that affect the Funds and their shareholders. This summary is based on current tax laws, which may change.
Each Fund will distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any. The dividends and distributions you receive may be subject to federal, state and local taxation, depending upon your tax situation. Distributions you receive from a Fund may be taxable whether or not you reinvest them. Income distributions other than distributions of qualified dividend income, are generally taxable at ordinary income tax rates. Capital gains distributions and distributions of qualified dividend income are generally taxable at the rates applicable to long-term capital gains.
Each sale of Fund shares may be a taxable event. For tax purposes, an exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different fund is the same as a sale. The gain or loss on the sale of a Fund's shares generally will be treated as a short term capital gain or loss if you held the shares for 12 months or less or a long term capital gain or loss if you held the shares for longer.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TAXES IS IN THE SAI.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The table that follows presents performance information about each Fund. The information is intended to help you understand each Fund's financial performance for the past five fiscal years, or, if shorter, the period of the Fund's operations. Some of this information reflects financial information for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that you would have earned (or lost) on an investment in a Fund, assuming you reinvested all of your dividends and distributions. The information provided below has been derived from each Fund's financial statements, which have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm of the Funds. Financial statements and the unqualified opinion of Ernst & Young LLP are included in the 2010 Annual Report of the Funds, which is available upon request by calling the Funds at 1-866-773-3238.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- YEAR ENDED YEAR ENDED PERIOD ENDED CHAMPLAIN MID CAP FUND JULY 31, 2010 JULY 31, 2009 JULY 31, 2008(2) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $XX $10.40 $10.00 --- ----- ------ Income (Loss) from Operations: Net Investment Income(1) XX - - Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments XX (1.64) 0.40 --- ----- ------ Total From Operations XX (1.64) 0.40 --- ----- ------ Dividends and Distributions from: Net Investment Income XX -(3) - Return on Capital XX -(3) - --- ----- ------ Total Dividends and Distributions XX -(3) - --- ----- ------ Net Asset Value, End of Period $XX $8.76 $10.40 === ===== ====== XX% (15.73)% 4.00% === ===== ====== Ratios and Supplemental Data Net Assets, End of Period (Thousands) $XX $44,142 $1,726 Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (including waivers and reimbursements, excluding fees XX% 1.30% 1.30%(5) paid indirectly) Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (including waivers, reimbursements and fees paid XX% 1.30% 1.30%(5) indirectly) Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (excluding waivers, reimbursements and fees paid XX% 1.59% 5.10%(5) indirectly) Ratio of Net Investment Income to Average Net Assets XX% 0.01% 0.05%(5) Portfolio Turnover Rate XX% 55% 0%(6) |
(1) Per share net investment income calculated using average shares.
(2) Commenced operations on June 30, 2008.
(3) Amount represents less than $0.01.
(4) Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized.
Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived and
assumed by the Adviser during the period. The return shown does not reflect
the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions
or the redemption of Fund shares.
(5) Annualized.
(6) Not annualized.
Amounts designated as "--" are either $0 or round to $0.
YEAR ENDED JULY 31, ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ CHAMPLAIN SMALL COMPANY FUND 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $XX $12.86 $13.29 $11.11 $11.18 --- ------ ------ ------ ------ Income (Loss) from Operations: Net Investment Loss(1) XX (0.03) (0.04) (0.04) (0.02) Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments XX (2.00) 0.47 2.43 0.17(2) --- ------ ------ ------ ------ Total From Operations XX (2.03) 0.43 2.39 0.15 --- ------ ------ ------ ------ Dividends and Distributions from: Net Investment Income XX - - - (0.01) Net Realized Gains XX (0.25) (0.86) (0.21) (0.21) --- ------ ------ ------ ------ Return of Capital XX -(3) - - - --- ------ ------ ------ ------ Total Dividends and Distributions XX (0.25) (0.86) (0.21) (0.22) --- ------ ------ ------ ------ Net Asset Value, End of Period $XX $10.58 $12.86 $13.29 $11.11 === ====== ====== ====== ====== Total Return(4) XX% (15.47)% 3.24% 21.69% 1.30% === ====== ====== ====== ====== Ratios and Supplemental Data Net Assets, End of Period (Thousands) $XX $559,011 $453,522 $243,122 $48,410 Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (including waivers, recaptures, and reimbursements, excluding fees paid indirectly) XX% 1.40% 1.41% 1.41% 1.41% Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (including waivers, recaptures, reimbursements and fees paid indirectly) XX% 1.40% 1.40% 1.40% 1.40% Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (excluding waivers, recaptures, reimbursements and fees paid indirectly) XX% 1.45% 1.42% 1.49% 2.26% Ratio of Net Investment Loss to Average Net Assets XX% (0.33)% (0.35)% (0.33)% (0.22)% Portfolio Turnover Rate XX% 48% 65% 69% 94% |
(1) Per share net investment loss calculated using average shares.
(2) The amount shown for the year ended July 31, 2006 for a share outstanding
throughout the year does accord with the aggregate net losses on
investments for that year because of the timing of the sales and
repurchases of fund shares in relation to the fluctuating market value of
the investments of the Fund.
(3) Amount represents less than $0.01.
(4) Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized. The
return shown does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder
would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total
return would have been lower had certain expense not been waived and/or
reimbursed by the Adviser during the period.
Amounts designated as "--" are either $0 or round to $0.
CHAMPLAIN FUNDS
PRIVACY NOTICE
The Champlain Funds recognize and respect the privacy concerns of their customers. The Funds collect non-public personal information about you in the course of doing business with shareholders and investors. "Non-public personal information" is personally identifiable financial information about you. For example, it includes information regarding your social security number, account balance, bank account information and purchase and redemption history.
THE FUNDS COLLECT THIS INFORMATION FROM THE FOLLOWING SOURCES:
o Information we receive from you on applications or other forms;
o Information about your transactions with us and our service
providers, or others;
o Information we receive from consumer reporting agencies (including
credit bureaus).
WHAT INFORMATION THE FUNDS DISCLOSE AND TO WHOM THE FUNDS DISCLOSE INFORMATION.
The Funds only disclose non-public personal information the Funds collect about shareholders as permitted by law. For example, the Funds may disclose non-public personal information about shareholders to non-affiliated third parties:
o To government entities, in response to subpoenas or to comply with
laws or regulations.
o When you, the customer, direct the Funds to do so or consent to the
disclosure.
o To companies that perform necessary services for the Funds, such as
data processing companies that the Funds use to process your
transactions or maintain your account.
o To protect against fraud, or to collect unpaid debts.
INFORMATION ABOUT FORMER CUSTOMERS.
If you decide to close your account(s) or become an inactive customer, we will adhere to the privacy policies and practices described in this notice.
HOW THE FUND SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION.
The Funds conduct their business affairs through trustees, officers, and third parties that provide services pursuant to agreements with the Funds. We restrict access to your personal and account information to those persons who need to know that information in order to provide services to you. The Funds or their service providers maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards that comply with federal standards to guard your non-public personal information.
CUSTOMERS OF OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS.
In the event that you hold shares of the Funds through a financial intermediary, including, but not limited to, a broker-dealer, bank or trust company, the privacy policy of your financial intermediary will govern how your non-public personal information will be shared with non-affiliated third parties by that entity.
QUESTIONS.
Should you have any questions regarding the Fund's Privacy Policy, please contact the Champlain Funds at 1-866-773-3238.
THE ADVISORS' INNER FUND II
CHAMPLAIN FUNDS
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Champlain Investment Partners, LLC
346 Shelburne Road
Burlington, Vermont 05401
DISTRIBUTOR
SEI Investments Distribution Co.
One Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS IS AVAILABLE, WITHOUT CHARGE, THROUGH THE FOLLOWING:
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ("SAI"): The SAI includes detailed information about the Funds and The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II. The SAI is on file with the SEC and is incorporated by reference into this prospectus. This means that the SAI, for legal purposes, is a part of this prospectus.
ANNUAL AND SEMI-ANNUAL REPORTS: These reports contain information from the Funds' portfolio managers about investment strategies, recent market conditions and trends and their impact on Fund performance. The reports also contain more information about the Funds' holdings and detailed financial information about the Funds.
TO OBTAIN AN SAI, ANNUAL OR SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT, OR MORE INFORMATION:
BY TELEPHONE: 1-866-773-3238
BY MAIL: Champlain Funds P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 BY INTERNET: www.cipvt.com |
FROM THE SEC: You can also obtain the SAI, Annual and Semi-Annual Reports, as
well as other information about The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II, from the
EDGAR Database on the SEC's website at: http://www.sec.gov. You may review and
copy documents at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, DC (for
information on the operation of the Public Reference Room, call 202-942-8090).
You may request documents by mail from the SEC, upon payment of a duplicating
fee, by writing to: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Public Reference
Section, Washington, DC 20549-0102. You may also obtain this information, upon
payment of a duplicating fee, by e-mailing the SEC at the following address:
publicinfo@sec.gov.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II'S INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT REGISTRATION NUMBER
IS 811-07102.
[INSERT CODE]
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
PROSPECTUS
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
CLEAR RIVER FUND(R)
TICKER SYMBOL: CLRVX
INVESTOR CLASS SHARES
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
LOWRY HILL INVESTMENT ADVISORS, INC.
THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED
THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS.
ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS THIS PROSPECTUS HAS BEEN ARRANGED INTO DIFFERENT SECTIONS SO THAT YOU CAN EASILY REVIEW THIS IMPORTANT INFORMATION. FOR DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND, PLEASE SEE: PAGE INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ....................................................... X FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ..................................................... X PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ............................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ............................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION .................................................... XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ......................................................... XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ......................................................... XX PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES ........................................... XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................................... XX PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES .......................................................... XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK ................................................ XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS .................................... XX INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ....................................... XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ......................................................... XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ......................................................... XX PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES ......................................... XX OTHER POLICIES ............................................................. XX SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS ......................................... XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ....................................... XX DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS ................................................ XX TAXES ...................................................................... XX FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS ....................................................... XX HOW TO OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND ....................... Back Cover |
CLEAR RIVER FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Clear River Fund (the "Fund") seeks long-term capital growth on a tax-efficient basis while providing moderate current income.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Investor Shares of the Fund.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.85% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year, and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
----------------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ----------------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ----------------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
In seeking to achieve the Fund's investment objective, Lowry Hill Investment Advisors, Inc. (the "Adviser") utilizes a combination of the six distinct and complementary investment strategies discussed below. Each strategy contains a relatively small, focused group of securities selected by the Adviser based on its research and fundamental analysis of individual companies, specifically targeting those with clear competitive advantages, exceptional management and strong fundamentals. The Fund seeks to buy and hold securities for the long term in order to minimize transactions costs and maximize the Fund's tax efficiency. However, the Adviser may sell a security if a company's underlying fundamentals have changed, the stock reaches overvaluation as determined by the Adviser or a more attractively valued alternative is available for purchase.
In making allocation decisions among the investment strategies, the Adviser considers multiple data sources, including economic and fundamental research. The Adviser regularly reviews the Fund's allocation and makes changes to favor strategies it believes will provide the most favorable outlook for achieving the Fund's objective. Depending on market conditions, these allocations may vary significantly from time to time.
Under most market conditions, the Adviser will allocate Fund assets to each investment strategy within the following ranges of the Fund's net assets:
Growth Equity 10% - 40% Income Equity 5% - 25% International Equity 10% - 40% Real Asset Equity 0% - 20% Small Cap Equity 5% - 30% Value Equity 5% - 25%
GROWTH EQUITY STRATEGY - The Adviser's Growth Equity Strategy focuses on securities of established companies with attractive earnings growth opportunities. For assets allocated to the Growth Equity Strategy, the Fund will generally invest in equity securities of companies with total market capitalizations of greater than $5 billion and expected earnings growth rates greater than the market average. In selecting securities, the Adviser looks for industry-leading companies with well-defined earnings growth strategies, high or improving returns on capital, significant cash flows and shareholder-focused management.
INCOME EQUITY STRATEGY - The Adviser utilizes its Income Equity Strategy to generate current dividend income and long-term total return by investing in securities of established companies that pay dividends. When employing this strategy, the Fund will invest in dividend-paying equity securities, including American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), of companies that the Adviser believes are selling at a discount to their intrinsic value, have dividend yields that on balance exceed the yield on the S&P 500 Index average, and have the potential to maintain or increase cash flows over a three- to five-year period.
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY STRATEGY - The Adviser's International Equity Strategy seeks to provide long-term capital appreciation and international diversification by investing in established non-U.S.-centered companies with attractive growth opportunities. Under this strategy, the Fund will invest in equity securities, including ADRs, of companies that generate 60% or more of their revenues outside North America. Additionally, the Fund may also invest in exchange-traded funds ("ETFs") in order to gain efficient exposure to certain foreign equity markets. When investing in such ETFs, the Adviser's security selection criterion applies to a country and/or region as opposed to a company.
REAL ASSET EQUITY STRATEGY - The Adviser's Real Asset Equity Strategy seeks to enhance portfolio inflation protection and diversification by investing in securities of established domestic and foreign public real estate companies, as well as companies whose primary business engages in commodities and natural resources or related businesses. Additionally, the Fund may invest in ETFs in order to maintain exposure to these market segments. For assets allocated to the strategy, the Fund will invest in equity securities of companies whose assets provide them with competitive advantages in occupancy or operating cost. The Adviser seeks securities selling at a discount to their intrinsic value. The Fund will also invest in real estate investment trusts ("REITs") with total market capitalizations of greater than $1 billion. In selecting securities, the Adviser looks for REITs that focus on a single property type, display a strong balance sheet and cash flow management, and have shareholder-focused management. The Adviser seeks REITs selling at a discount to their intrinsic value based on price-to-cash flow analysis and producing a dividend yield of at least 50% of their benchmark.
SMALL CAP EQUITY STRATEGY - The Adviser's Small Cap Equity Strategy focuses on securities of smaller companies with strong franchises and attractive valuations. For assets allocated to this strategy, the Fund will generally invest in equity securities of companies with total market capitalizations of less than $5 billion. When selecting securities, the Adviser looks for companies with high or improving returns on capital, opportunities for growth and shareholder-focused management. The Adviser seeks securities selling at a discount to their intrinsic value with the potential to achieve a specified target return over a three- to five-year period.
VALUE EQUITY STRATEGY - The Adviser's Value Equity Strategy focuses on securities of undervalued companies typically trading at low price/earnings and low book value ratios with the opportunity for improving business fundamentals. Generally, these are companies experiencing temporary business challenges and with appropriate management action have the opportunity to generate improved operating results over a two- to four-year period. In addition, the strategy will look for event-driven opportunities broadly described as merger and acquisition activity, restructurings and industry turnarounds. When investing assets pursuant to this strategy, the Fund will generally purchase companies with a market capitalization greater than $5 billion. When selecting securities, competitive advantage, pricing power, improving financial fundamentals, management and valuation are given consideration.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK - Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day-to-day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK - Investing in foreign companies, including direct investments and through ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. Changes in the value of a currency compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
EMERGING MARKET SECURITIES RISK - Investments in emerging markets securities are considered speculative and subject to heightened risks in addition to the general risks of investing in non-U.S. securities. Unlike more established markets, emerging markets may have governments that are less stable, markets that are less liquid and economies that are less developed. In addition, emerging markets securities may be subject to smaller market capitalization of securities markets, which may suffer periods of relative illiquidity; significant price volatility; restrictions on foreign investment; and possible restrictions on repatriation of investment income and capital. Furthermore, foreign investors may be required to register the proceeds of sales, and future economic or political crises could lead to price controls, forced mergers, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, seizure, nationalization or creation of government monopolies.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK - Because non-U.S. securities are usually denominated in currencies other than the dollar, the value of the Fund's portfolio may be influenced by currency exchange rates and exchange control regulations. The currencies of emerging market countries may experience significant declines against the U.S. dollar, and devaluation may occur subsequent to investments in these currencies by the Fund. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation rates have had, and may continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging market countries.
REIT RISK - REITs are pooled investment vehicles that own, and usually operate, income-producing real estate. REITs are susceptible to the risks associated with direct ownership of real estate, such as the following: declines in property values; increases in property taxes, operating expenses, rising interest rates or competition overbuilding; zoning changes; and losses from casualty or condemnation. REITs typically incur fees that are separate from those of the Fund. Accordingly, the Fund's investments in REITs will result in the layering of expenses such that shareholders will indirectly bear a proportionate share of the REITs' operating expenses, in addition to paying Fund expenses.
INVESTMENTS IN ETFS - ETFs are pooled investment vehicles, such as registered investment companies and grantor trusts, whose shares are listed and traded on U.S. stock exchanges or otherwise traded in the over-the-counter market. To the extent that the Fund invests in ETFs, the Fund will be subject to substantially the same risks as those associated with the direct ownership of the securities comprising the index on which the ETF is based and the value of the Fund's investment will fluctuate in response to the performance of the underlying index. ETFs typically incur fees that are separate from those of the Fund. Accordingly, the Fund's investments in ETFs will result in the layering of expenses such that shareholders will indirectly bear a proportionate share of the ETFs' operating expenses, in addition to paying Fund expenses. The Fund may invest in ETFs that are not registered or regulated under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). These ETFs typically hold commodities
(such as gold or oil), currency or other property that is itself not a security. Because the value of ETF shares depends on the demand in the market, shares may trade at a discount or premium and the Adviser may not be able to liquidate the Fund's holdings at the most optimal time, which could adversely affect the Fund's performance.
The Fund intends to invest in ETFs in a manner consistent with the Fund's intention to be taxable as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The Adviser, therefore, anticipates monitoring its investments in such ETFs very closely to keep the Fund's non-qualifying income within the acceptable limits so as to maintain its qualification as a regulated investment company.
SMALL-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK - The small-capitalization companies in which the Fund will invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small-cap stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over-the-counter or listed on an exchange.
SPECIAL SITUATIONS RISK - Special situations are unusual or out-of-the-ordinary circumstances that a company or its stock can face. Examples of special situations could include a company turning around from a period of poor performance, a company undertaking a corporate restructuring, a company launching a new product or business stream or a security selling at a discount to its underlying value. Special situations can present investment opportunities if correctly identified and interpreted. Special situations may involve greater risk than is found in the normal course of investing if the special situation does not produce the effect predicted by the Adviser.
ALLOCATION RISK - In seeking to achieve the Fund's investment objective, the Adviser may employ multiple investment strategies. Decisions concerning allocations of assets among investment strategies are based upon judgments made by the Adviser, which may not accurately predict changes in the market. As a result, the Fund could miss attractive investment opportunities by underweighting strategies that subsequently experience significant returns and could lose value by overweighting strategies that subsequently experience significant declines.
COMMODITY RISK - Exposure to the commodities markets, through a company or an ETF, may subject the Fund to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. Commodities are subject to substantial price fluctuations over short periods of time and may be affected by unpredictable economic, political and environmental events.
INVESTMENT STYLE RISK - The Fund may use a "value" style of investing. Value investing focuses on companies whose stock appears undervalued in light of factors such as the company's earnings, book value, revenue or cash flow. If the Adviser's assessment of a company's value or prospects for exceeding earnings expectations or market conditions is inaccurate, the Fund could suffer losses or produce poor performance relative to other funds. In addition, "value stocks" can continue to be undervalued by the market for long periods of time.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The Fund commenced operations on February 3, 2009, and therefore does not have performance history for a full calendar year. Once the Fund has completed a full calendar year of operations, a bar chart and table will be included that will provide some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing the variability of the Fund's return based on net assets and comparing the Fund's performance to a broad measure of market performance.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Lowry Hill Investment Advisors, Inc.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
James Steiner, Managing Principal, has managed the Fund since its inception.
Thomas Hull, Chief Investment Officer, has managed the Fund since its inception.
Thomas Gunderson, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception.
Jeffrey Erickson, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception.
Cameron Johnson, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception.
PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES
To purchase shares of a Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $5,000. Subsequent investments must be made in amounts of at least $500.
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business (a "Business Day") by contacting the Fund directly by mail at Clear River Fund, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: DST Systems, Inc., c/o Clear River Fund, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105) or telephone at 1-877-333-0246.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
If you purchase shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary's web site for more information.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK
Investing in the Fund involves risk and there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its goal. The Adviser's judgments about the markets, the economy, or companies may not anticipate actual market movements, economic conditions or company performance, and these judgments may affect the return on your investment. In fact, no matter how good a job the Adviser does, you could lose money on your investment in the Fund, just as you could with similar investments.
The value of your investment in the Fund is based on the value of the securities the Fund holds. These prices change daily due to economic and other events that affect particular companies and other issuers. These price movements, sometimes called volatility, may be greater or lesser depending on the types of securities the Fund owns and the markets in which they trade. The effect on the Fund of a change in the value of a single security will depend on how widely the Fund diversifies its holdings.
EQUITY RISK - Equity securities in which the Fund invests include publicly and privately issued equity securities, common and preferred stocks, warrants, shares of ADRs and rights to subscribe to common stock and convertible securities, as well as instruments that attempt to track the price movement of equity indices. Common stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. Preferred stock provides a fixed dividend that is paid before any dividends are paid to common stockholders, and which takes precedence over common stock in the event of a liquidation. Like common stock, preferred stocks represent partial ownership in a company, although preferred stock shareholders do not enjoy any of the voting rights of common stockholders. Also, unlike common stock, a preferred stock pays a fixed dividend that does not fluctuate, although the company does not have to pay this dividend if it lacks the financial ability to do so. Investments in equity securities and equity derivatives in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. The value of securities convertible into equity securities, such as warrants or convertible debt, is also affected by prevailing interest rates, the credit quality of the issuer and any call provision. Fluctuations in the value of equity securities in which a mutual fund invests will cause the fund's net asset value ("NAV") to fluctuate. An investment in a portfolio of equity securities may be more suitable for long-term investors who can bear the risk of these share price fluctuations.
FOREIGN SECURITY RISK - The Fund's investments in securities of foreign companies (including direct investments as well as investments through ADRs) can be more volatile than investments in U.S. companies. Diplomatic, political, or economic developments, including nationalization or appropriation, could affect investments in foreign companies. Foreign securities markets generally have less trading volume and less liquidity than U.S. markets. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies, and of dividends from such securities, can change significantly when foreign currencies strengthen or weaken relative to the U.S. dollar. Foreign companies or governments generally are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to domestic U.S. companies or governments. Transaction costs are generally higher than those in the United States and expenses for custodial arrangements of foreign securities may be somewhat greater than typical expenses for custodial arrangements of similar U.S. securities. Some foreign governments levy withholding taxes against dividend and interest income. Although in some countries a portion of these taxes are recoverable, the non-recovered portion will reduce the income received from the securities comprising the portfolio.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS
The investment objective of the Fund is to provide long term capital growth on a tax-efficient basis while providing moderate current income. The investment objective of the Fund may be changed without shareholder approval.
The investments and strategies described in this prospectus are those that the Fund uses under normal conditions. During unusual economic or market conditions, or for temporary defensive or liquidity purposes, the Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in money market instruments or other cash equivalents that would not ordinarily be consistent with its investment objective. If the Fund invests in this manner, it may not achieve its investment objective. The Fund will do so only if the Adviser believes that the risk of loss outweighs the opportunity to pursue its investment objective.
This prospectus describes the Fund's principal investment strategies, and the Fund will normally invest in the types of securities described in this prospectus. In addition to the securities and other investments and strategies described in this prospectus, the Fund also may invest, to a lesser extent, in other securities, use other strategies and engage in other investment practices that are not part of its principal investment strategies. These investments and strategies are described in detail in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") (for information on how to obtain a copy of the SAI see the back cover of this prospectus). Of course, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment goal.
INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
A description of the Fund's policy and procedures with respect to the circumstances under which the Fund discloses its portfolio holdings is available in the SAI.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Lowry Hill Investment Advisors, Inc., a Minnesota corporation formed in 1986, serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. The Adviser is a subsidiary of Wells Fargo and Co. and is an affiliate of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. (Wells Fargo). The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 90 South Seventh Street, Suite 5300, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402. The Adviser manages and supervises the investment of the Fund's assets on a discretionary basis. As of July 31, 2010, the Adviser had approximately $4.6 billion in assets under management. The Trust's Board of Trustees supervises the Adviser and establishes policies that the Adviser must follow in its management activities.
For its services, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.85% based on the average daily net assets of the Fund. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its fees and reimburse expenses in order to keep total annual fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, acquired fund fees and expenses, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 1.20% of the Fund's Investor Shares' average daily net assets. The Adviser may discontinue all or a portion of its fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual fund operating expenses and 1.20% to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expense reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period during which the agreement was in place. For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Fund paid XX% of its average daily net assets in advisory fees to the Adviser.
Wells Fargo and its affiliates provide a variety of financial products and services, including money market funds, and the Fund may invest in those money market funds for cash management purposes. Wells Fargo may earn investment management fees and earns other fees on Fund assets invested in such money market funds.
A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the Fund's investment advisory agreement appears in the Fund's Annual Report to Shareholders dated July 31, 2010.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
The Fund is managed by a team of investment professionals headed by Mr. James Steiner, Mr. Thomas Hull and Mr. Thomas Gunderson. Although Messrs. Steiner, Hull and Gunderson are primarily responsible for making investment decisions for the Fund, a number of investment team members play an integral part in generating investment ideas and making recommendations for the Fund. Following are the members of the Fund's management team. The SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed and ownership of Fund shares.
Mr. James Steiner has been with the Adviser since 1998 and has served as managing principal since 2003. Mr. Steiner is responsible for the Income Equity Strategy, Real Asset Equity Strategy and Value Equity Strategy employed by the Fund. He has co-managed the Fund since its inception. Mr. Steiner has over 18 years of investment experience.
Mr. Thomas Hull has been with the Adviser since its inception in 1986 and has served as chief investment officer since 2004. Prior to serving as chief investment officer, Mr. Hull served as a portfolio manager from 1986 to 2004. He has co-managed the Fund since its inception. Mr. Hull has over 27 years of investment experience.
Mr. Thomas Gunderson has been with the Adviser and has served as a portfolio manager since 2008. Mr. Gunderson is responsible for the Growth Equity Strategy employed by the Fund. Prior to joining the Adviser, Mr. Gunderson served as the lead portfolio manager of the large-cap growth portfolio at FAF Advisors, Inc., a division of U.S. Bancorp, in Minneapolis from 2003 to 2008. He has co-managed the Fund since its inception. Mr. Gunderson has over 26 years of investment experience.
Mr. Jeffrey Erickson has been with the Adviser and has served as a portfolio manager since 2000. Mr. Erickson is responsible for the International Equity Strategy employed by the Fund. He has co-managed the Fund since its inception. Mr. Erickson has over 24 years of investment experience.
Mr. Cameron Johnson has been with the Adviser and has served as a portfolio manager since 2002. Mr. Johnson is responsible for the Small-Cap Equity Strategy employed by the Fund. He has co-managed the Fund since its inception. Mr. Johnson has over 16 years of investment experience.
ADDITIONAL COMPENSATION
CUSTODY SERVICES. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. serves as custodian to the Fund, and for such services is paid an annual fee, payable from the Fund's assets, of 0.02% of the Fund's average daily net assets.
PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES
This section tells you how to purchase and sell (sometimes called "redeem") shares of the Fund.
Investor Shares of the Fund are for individual and retail investors.
HOW TO PURCHASE FUND SHARES
To purchase shares directly from the Fund through its transfer agent, complete and send in the application. If you need an application or have questions, please call 1-877-333-0246.
All investments must be made by check, Automated Clearing House (ACH), or wire. All checks must be made payable in U.S. dollars and drawn on U.S. financial institutions. The Fund does not accept purchases made by third-party checks, credit cards, credit card checks, cash, traveler's checks, money orders or cashier's checks.
The Fund reserves the right to reject any specific purchase order for any reason. The Fund is not intended for short-term trading by shareholders in response to short-term market fluctuations. For more information about the Fund's policy on short-term trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
The Fund does not generally accept investments by non-U.S. persons. Non-U.S. persons may be permitted to invest in the Fund subject to the satisfaction of enhanced due diligence. Please contact the Fund for more information.
BY MAIL
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
Clear River Fund
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
DST Systems, Inc.
c/o Clear River Fund
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
BY WIRE
To open an account by wire, first call 1-877-333-0246 for details. To add to an existing account by wire, wire your money using the wiring instructions set forth below (be sure to include the Fund name and your account number).
WIRING INSTRUCTIONS
UMB Bank, N.A.
ABA #101000695
Clear River Fund
DDA Account # 9871063178
Ref: account number/account name
BY AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN (VIA AUTOMATED CLEARING HOUSE OR "ACH")
You may not open an account via ACH. However, once you have established an account, you can set up an automatic investment plan by mailing a completed application to the Fund. These purchases can be made monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually in amounts of at least $50. To cancel or change a plan, write to the Fund at Clear River Fund, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: DST Systems, Inc. c/o Clear River Fund, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105). Allow up to 15 days to create the plan and 3 days to cancel or change it.
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
To purchase Investor Shares of the Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $5,000. Subsequent investments must be made in amounts of at least $500. The Fund may accept investments of smaller amounts in its sole discretion.
FUND CODES
The Fund's reference information, which is listed below, will be helpful to you when you contact the Fund to purchase shares, check daily NAV or obtain additional information.
FUND NAME SHARE CLASS TRADING SYMBOL CUSIP FUND CODE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Clear River Fund Investor Shares CLRVX 00766Y570 2671 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
GENERAL INFORMATION
You may purchase shares on any Business Day. Shares cannot be purchased by Federal Reserve wire on days when either the NYSE or the Federal Reserve is closed. The price per share (the offering price) will be the NAV next determined after the Fund receives your purchase order in proper form. "Proper form" means that the Fund was provided a complete and signed account application, including the investor's social security number, tax identification number, and other identification required by law or regulation.
The Fund calculates its NAV once each Business Day as of the close of normal trading on the NYSE (normally, 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time). To receive the current Business Day's NAV, the Fund or an authorized institution must receive your purchase order in proper form before 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time. If the NYSE closes early - such as on days in advance of certain holidays - the Fund reserves the right to calculate NAV as of the earlier closing time. The Fund will not accept orders that request a particular day or price for the transaction or any other special conditions.
Shares will not be priced on days that the NYSE is closed for trading, including nationally observed holidays. Since securities that are traded on foreign exchanges may trade on days when the NYSE is closed, the value of the Fund may change on days when you are unable to purchase or redeem shares.
BUYING OR SELLING SHARES THROUGH A FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY
In addition to being able to buy and sell Fund shares directly from the Fund through its transfer agent, you may also buy or sell shares of the Fund through accounts with financial intermediaries such as brokers and other institutions that are authorized to place trades in Fund shares for their customers ("authorized institutions"). When you purchase or sell Fund shares through certain authorized institutions (rather than directly from the Fund), you may have to transmit your purchase and sale requests to these authorized institutions at an earlier time for your transaction to become effective that day. This allows these authorized institutions time to process your requests and transmit them to the Fund. Your authorized institution is responsible for transmitting all purchase and redemption requests, investment information, documentation and money to the Funds on time. If your authorized institution fails to do so, it may be responsible for any resulting fees or losses.
Certain authorized institutions, including certain broker-dealers and shareholder organizations, are authorized to act as agent on behalf of the Fund with respect to the receipt of purchase and redemption requests for Fund shares. These requests are executed at the NAV next determined after the institution receives the request if transmitted to the Fund's transfer agent in accordance with the Fund's procedures and applicable law. To determine whether your institution is authorized to act as an agent on behalf of the Fund with respect to purchase and redemption requests for Fund shares, you should contact them directly.
If you deal directly with an authorized institution, you will have to follow their procedures for transacting with the Fund. Your authorized institution may charge a fee for your purchase and/or redemption transactions. For more information about how to purchase or sell Fund shares through an authorized institution, and the fees they may charge, you should contact your authorized institution directly.
HOW THE FUND CALCULATES NAV
NAV for one Fund share is the value of that share's portion of the net assets of the Fund. The Fund calculates its NAV by adding the total value of its assets, subtracting its liabilities and then dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding. In calculating NAV, the Fund generally values its investment portfolio at market price. If market prices are not readily available or the Fund reasonably believes that they are unreliable, such as in the case of a security value that has been materially affected by events occurring after the relevant market closes, the Fund is required to price those securities at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees (the "Board"). Pursuant to policies adopted by and under the ultimate supervision of the Fund's Board, these methods are implemented through the Fund's Fair Value Committee, members of which are appointed by the Board. The Fund's determination of a security's fair value price often involves the consideration of a number of subjective factors, and is therefore subject to the unavoidable risk that the value that the Fund assigns to a security may be higher or lower than the security's value would be if a reliable market quotation for the security was readily available.
With respect to non-U.S. securities held by the Fund, the Fund may take factors influencing specific markets or issuers into consideration in determining the fair value of a non-U.S. security. International securities markets may be open on days when the U.S. markets are closed. In such cases, the value of any international securities owned by the Fund may be significantly affected on days when investors cannot buy or sell shares. In addition, due to the difference in times between the close of the international markets and the time the Fund prices its shares, the value the Fund assigns to securities may not be the same as the quoted or published prices of those securities on their primary markets or exchanges. In determining fair value prices, the Fund may consider the performance of securities on their primary exchanges, foreign currency appreciation/depreciation, securities market movements in the United States, or other relevant information related to the securities.
There may be limited circumstances in which the Fund would price securities at fair value for stocks of U.S. companies that are traded on U.S. exchanges - for example, if the exchange on which a particular security was halted during the day and did not resume prior to the time the Fund calculated its NAV.
Securities, options, futures contracts and other assets (including swap agreements) for which market quotations are not readily available will be valued at their fair value as determined in good faith by or under the direction of the Board.
HOW TO SELL YOUR FUND SHARES
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any Business Day by contacting the Fund's transfer agent directly by mail or telephone.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares. Your broker or institution may charge a fee for its services, in addition to the fees charged by the Fund.
BY MAIL
To redeem shares by mail, please send a letter to the Fund signed by all registered parties on the account specifying:
o The Fund name;
o The account number;
o The dollar amount or number of shares you wish to redeem;
o The account name(s); and
o The address to which redemption (sale) proceeds should be sent.
All registered shareholders must sign the letter in the exact name(s) in which their account is registered and must designate any special capacity in which they are registered.
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
Clear River Fund
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
DST Systems, Inc.
c/o Clear River Fund
430 West 7th Street Kansas City, MO 64105 Certain redemption requests require signature guarantees by a bank or member |
firm of a national securities exchange. For example, signature guarantees may be required if your address of record or banking instructions have recently been changed, or if you ask that the proceeds be sent to a different person or address. In addition, you will need to provide a signature guarantee for wire redemptions (which may be subject to a $10 fee) made within 30 days of changing your bank account information and for check redemptions made within 30 days of changing your mailing address. Signature guarantees are for the protection of the shareholders. Please call 1-877-333-0246 if you need more information. Before it grants a redemption request, the Fund may require a shareholder to furnish additional legal documents to insure proper authorization.
BY SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN (VIA ACH)
If your account balance is at least $25,000, you may transfer as little as $250 per month from your account to another financial institution through a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (via ACH). To participate in this service, you must complete the appropriate sections of the account application and mail it to the Fund.
RECEIVING YOUR MONEY
Normally, the Fund will send your sale proceeds within seven Business Days after
the Fund receives your request. Your proceeds can be wired to your bank account
(which may be subject to a $10 fee), sent to you by check or sent via ACH to
your bank account once you have established banking instructions with the Fund.
IF YOU ARE SELLING SHARES THAT WERE RECENTLY PURCHASED BY CHECK OR THROUGH ACH,
REDEMPTION PROCEEDS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE UNTIL YOUR CHECK HAS CLEARED OR THE ACH
TRANSACTION HAS BEEN COMPLETED (WHICH MAY TAKE UP TO 15 DAYS FROM YOUR DATE OF
PURCHASE).
REDEMPTIONS IN KIND
The Fund generally pays sale (redemption) proceeds in cash. However, under unusual conditions that make the payment of cash unwise and for the protection of the Fund's remaining shareholders, the Fund might pay all or part of your redemption proceeds in securities with a market value equal to the redemption price (redemption in kind). It is highly unlikely that your shares would ever be redeemed in kind, but if they were, you would have to pay transaction costs to sell the securities distributed to you, as well as taxes on any capital gains from the sale as with any redemption. In addition, you would continue to be subject to the risks of any market fluctuation in the value of the securities you receive in kind until they are sold.
INVOLUNTARY REDEMPTIONS OF YOUR SHARES
If your account balance drops below $2,500 because of redemptions you may be required to sell your shares. The Fund will provide you at least 30 days' written notice to give you sufficient time to add to your account and avoid the sale of your shares.
SUSPENSION OF YOUR RIGHT TO SELL YOUR SHARES
The Fund may suspend your right to sell your shares during times when trading on the NYSE is restricted or halted, or otherwise as permitted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). More information about this is in the SAI.
OTHER POLICIES
EXCESSIVE TRADING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Fund is intended for long-term investment purposes only and discourages shareholders from engaging in "market timing" or other types of excessive short-term trading. This frequent trading into and out of the Fund may present risks to the Fund's long-term shareholders, and could adversely affect shareholder returns. The risks posed by frequent trading include interfering with the efficient implementation of the Fund's investment strategy, triggering the recognition of taxable gains and losses on the sale of Fund investments, requiring the Fund to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemption requests, and experiencing increased transaction costs. In addition, because the Fund invests in foreign securities traded primarily on markets that close prior to the time the Fund determines its NAV, the risks posed by frequent trading may have a greater potential to dilute the value of Fund shares held by long-term shareholders than funds investing exclusively in U.S. securities.
Because the Fund may invest in small-cap securities, which often trade in lower volumes and may be less liquid, the Fund may be more susceptible to the risks posed by frequent trading because frequent transactions in the Fund's shares may have a greater impact on the market prices of these types of securities.
In instances where a significant event that affects the value of one or more foreign securities held by the Fund takes place after the close of the primary foreign market, but before the time that the Fund determines its NAV, certain investors may seek to take advantage of the fact that there will be a delay in the adjustment of the market price for a security caused by this event until the foreign market reopens (sometimes referred to as "price" or "time zone" arbitrage). Shareholders who attempt this type of arbitrage may dilute the value of the Fund's shares if the price of the Fund's foreign securities do not reflect their fair value. Although the Fund has procedures designed to determine the fair value of foreign securities for purposes of calculating its NAV when such an event has occurred, fair value pricing, because it involves judgments which are inherently subjective, may not always eliminate the risk of price arbitrage. For more information on how the Fund uses fair value pricing, see "General Information."
The Fund's service providers will take steps reasonably designed to detect and deter frequent trading by shareholders pursuant to the Fund's policies and procedures described in this prospectus and approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees. For purposes of applying these policies, the Fund's service providers may consider the trading history of accounts under common ownership or control. The Fund's policies and procedures include the following:
o Shareholders are restricted from making more than four "round trips" into or out of the Fund per calendar quarter. If, to the knowledge of the Fund, a shareholder exceeds this amount, the Fund and/or its service providers may, at their discretion, reject any additional purchase orders. The Fund defines a "round trip" as a purchase into the Fund by a shareholder, followed by a subsequent redemption out of the Fund, of an amount the Adviser reasonably believes would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
o The Fund assesses a redemption fee of 2.00% on redemptions by shareholders of Fund shares held for less than 90 days (subject to certain exceptions as discussed in "Redemption Fee").
o The Fund reserves the right to reject any purchase request by any investor or group of investors for any reason without prior notice, including, in particular, if the Fund or the Adviser reasonably believes that the trading activity would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
The Fund and/or its service providers seek to apply these policies to the best of their abilities uniformly and in a manner they believe is consistent with the interests of the Fund's long-term shareholders. The Funds do not knowingly accommodate frequent purchases and redemptions by Fund shareholders. Although these policies are designed to deter frequent trading, none of these measures alone nor all of them taken together eliminate the possibility that frequent trading in the Fund will occur. Systematic purchases and redemptions are exempt from these policies.
Financial intermediaries (such as investment advisers and broker-dealers) often establish omnibus accounts in the Fund for their customers through which transactions are placed. In accordance with Rule 22c-2 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), the Fund has entered into information sharing agreements with certain financial intermediaries. Under these agreements, a financial intermediary is obligated to: (1) enforce during the term of the agreement, the Fund's, or in certain instances, the financial intermediary's, market-timing policy; (2) furnish the Fund, upon its request, with information regarding customer trading activities in shares of the Fund; and (3) enforce the Fund's, or in certain instances, the financial
intermediary's, market-timing policy with respect to customers identified by the Fund as having engaged in market timing. When information regarding transactions in the Fund's shares is requested by the Fund and such information is in the possession of a person that is itself a financial intermediary to a financial intermediary (an "indirect intermediary"), any financial intermediary with whom the Fund has an information sharing agreement is obligated to obtain transaction information from the indirect intermediary or, if directed by the Fund, to restrict or prohibit the indirect intermediary from purchasing shares of the Fund on behalf of other persons. Please contact your financial intermediary for more information.
REDEMPTION FEE
In an effort to discourage short-term trading and defray costs incurred by shareholders as a result of same, the Fund charges a 2% redemption fee on redemptions of shares sold within ninety (90) days of their purchase. The fee is deducted from the sale proceeds and cannot be paid separately, and any proceeds of the fee are credited to the assets of the Fund. The fee does not apply to shares purchased with reinvested dividends or distributions. The redemption fee is applicable to shares of the Fund purchased either directly or through a financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer. Transactions through financial intermediaries typically are placed with the Fund on an omnibus basis and include both purchase and sale transactions placed on behalf of multiple investors. For this reason, the Fund has undertaken to notify financial intermediaries of their obligation to assess the redemption fee on customer accounts and to collect and remit the proceeds to the Fund. However, due to operational requirements, the intermediaries' methods for tracking and calculating the fee may be inadequate or differ in some respects from those of the Fund.
The redemption fee may not apply to certain categories of redemptions, such as those that the Fund reasonably believes may not raise frequent trading or market timing concerns. These categories include, but are not limited to, the following: (i) participants in certain group retirement plans whose processing systems are incapable of properly applying the redemption fee to underlying shareholders; (ii) redemptions resulting from certain transfers upon the death of a shareholder; (iii) redemptions by certain pension plans as required by law or by regulatory authorities; (iv) systematic redemptions; and (v) retirement loans and withdrawals. The Fund reserves the right to modify or eliminate the redemption fees or waivers at any time.
CUSTOMER IDENTIFICATION AND VERIFICATION
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account.
What this means to you: When you open an account, the Fund will ask your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow the Fund to identify you. This information is subject to verification to ensure the identity of all persons opening a mutual fund account.
The Fund is required by law to reject your new account application if the required identifying information is not provided.
In certain instances, the Fund is required to collect documents to fulfill its legal obligation. Documents provided in connection with your application will be used solely to establish and verify a customer's identity.
Attempts to collect the missing information required on the application will be performed by either contacting you or, if applicable, your broker. If this information cannot be obtained within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Fund, your application will be rejected.
Upon receipt of your application in proper form (or upon receipt of all identifying information required on the application), your investment will be accepted and your order will be processed at the next-determined NAV.
The Fund reserves the right to close or liquidate your account at the NAV next determined and remit proceeds to you via check if it is unable to verify your identity. Attempts to verify your identity will be performed within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Fund. Further, the Fund reserves the right to hold your proceeds until your original check clears the bank, which may take up to 15 days from the date of purchase. In such an instance, you may be subject to a gain or loss on Fund shares and will be subject to corresponding tax implications.
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING PROGRAM
Customer identification and verification is part of the Fund's overall obligation to deter money laundering under federal law. The Fund has adopted an anti-money laundering compliance program designed to prevent the Fund from being used for money laundering or the financing of illegal activities. In this regard, the Fund reserves the right to (i) refuse, cancel or rescind any purchase or exchange order, (ii) freeze any account and/or suspend account services or (iii) involuntarily close your account in cases of threatening conduct or suspected fraudulent or illegal activity. These actions will be taken when, in the sole discretion of Fund management, they are deemed to be in the best interest of the Fund or in cases when the Fund is requested or compelled to do so by governmental or law enforcement authority. If your account is closed at the request of governmental or law enforcement authority, you may not receive proceeds of the redemption if the Fund is required to withhold such proceeds.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS
The Fund may compensate financial intermediaries for providing a variety of services to shareholders. Financial intermediaries include affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Fund, its service providers or their respective affiliates. This section and the following section briefly describe how financial intermediaries may be paid for providing these services.
The Fund generally pays financial intermediaries a fee that is based on the assets of the Fund that are attributable to investments by customers of the financial intermediary. The services for which financial intermediaries are compensated may include record-keeping, transaction processing for shareholders' accounts and other shareholder services. In addition to these payments, your financial intermediary may charge you account fees, transaction fees for buying or redeeming shares of the Fund, or other fees for servicing your account. Your financial intermediary should provide a schedule of its fees and services to you upon request. The Fund does not pay these service fees on shares purchased directly. In addition to payments made directly to financial intermediaries by the Fund, the Adviser or its affiliates may, at their own expense, pay financial intermediaries for these and other services to Fund shareholders, as described in the section below.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
From time to time, the Adviser and/or its affiliates, in their discretion, may make payments to certain affiliated or unaffiliated financial intermediaries to compensate them for the costs associated with distribution, marketing, administration and shareholder servicing support. These payments are sometimes characterized as "revenue sharing" payments and are made out of the Adviser's and/or its affiliates' own legitimate profits or other resources, and are not paid by the Fund.
A financial intermediary may provide these services with respect to Fund shares sold or held through programs such as retirement plans, qualified tuition programs, fund supermarkets, fee-based advisory or wrap fee programs, bank trust programs, and insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. In addition, financial intermediaries may receive payments for making shares of the Fund available to their customers or registered representatives, including providing the Fund with "shelf space," placing it on a preferred or recommended fund list, or promoting the Fund in certain sales programs that are sponsored by financial intermediaries. To the extent permitted by SEC and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") rules and other applicable laws and regulations, the Adviser and/or its affiliates may pay or allow other promotional incentives or payments to financial intermediaries. For more information please see "Payments to Financial Intermediaries" in the Fund's SAI.
The level of payments to individual financial intermediaries varies in any given year and may be negotiated on the basis of sales of Fund shares, the amount of Fund assets serviced by the financial intermediary or the quality of the financial intermediary's relationship with the Adviser and/or its affiliates. These payments may be more or less than the payments received by the financial intermediaries from other mutual funds and may influence a financial intermediary to favor the sales of certain funds or share classes over others. In certain instances, the payments could be significant and may cause a conflict of interest for your financial intermediary. Any such payments will not change the NAV or price of the Fund's shares. Please contact your financial intermediary for information about any payments it may receive in connection with the sale of Fund shares or the provision of services to the Fund, as well as information about any fees and/or commissions it charges.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
The Fund distributes its net investment income quarterly and makes distributions of its net realized capital gains, if any, at least annually. If you own Fund shares on the Fund's record date, you will be entitled to receive the distribution.
You will receive dividends and distributions in the form of additional Fund shares unless you elect to receive payment in cash. To elect cash payment, you must notify the Fund in writing prior to the date of the distribution. Your election will be effective for dividends and distributions paid after the Fund receives your written notice. To cancel your election, simply send the Fund written notice.
TAXES
PLEASE CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISOR REGARDING YOUR SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ABOUT FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL INCOME TAXES. Below is a summary of some important tax issues that affect the Fund and its shareholders. This summary is based on current tax laws, which may change.
The Fund is treated as a separate entity for federal income tax purposes, and intends to qualify for the special tax treatment afforded to regulated investment companies. As long as the Fund qualifies as a regulated investment company, it pays no federal income tax on the earnings it distributes to shareholders. One of the requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), is that the Fund derive at least 90% of its gross income for each taxable year from dividends, interest, payments with respect to certain securities loans, and gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies (the "90% Test").
The Fund may invest in one or more ETFs that are not taxable as regulated investment companies under the Code and that may generate income that is not qualifying income for purposes of satisfying the 90% Test. The Adviser anticipates monitoring its investments in such ETFs very closely to keep the Fund's non-qualifying income within acceptable limits, however, it is possible that if the amount of non-qualifying income is more than anticipated it could cause the Fund to inadvertently fail the 90% Test, thereby causing the Fund to fail to qualify as a regulated investment company.
If the Fund were to fail to qualify as a regulated investment company in any year, the Fund would be subject to federal income tax on its net income and capital gains at regular corporate income tax rates (without a deduction for distributions to shareholders). When distributed, that income would also be taxable to shareholders as an ordinary dividend to the extent attributable to the Fund's earnings and profits.
The Fund will distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any. The dividends and distributions you receive may be subject to federal, state and local taxation, depending upon your tax situation. Distributions you receive from the Fund may be taxable whether or not you reinvest them. Income distributions other than distributions of qualified dividend income, are generally taxable at ordinary income tax rates. Capital gains distributions and distributions of qualified dividend income are generally taxable at the rates applicable to long-term capital gains.
Each sale of Fund shares may be a taxable event. The gain or loss on the sale of the Fund's shares generally will be treated as a short-term capital gain or loss if you held the shares for 12 months or less or a long-term capital gain or loss if you held the shares for longer.
To the extent that the Fund invests in foreign securities, it may be subject to foreign withholding taxes with respect to dividends or interest the Fund received from sources in foreign countries. The Fund may elect to treat some of those taxes as a distribution to shareholders, which would allow shareholders to offset some of their U.S. federal income tax.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TAXES IS IN THE SAI.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The table that follows presents performance information about the Fund. The information is intended to help you understand the Fund's financial performance for the period of the Fund's operations. Some of this information reflects financial information for a single Fund share. The total return in the table represents the rate that you would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the Fund, assuming you reinvested all of your dividends and distributions. The information provided below has been derived from the Fund's financial statements, which have been audited by Briggs, Bunting & Dougherty, LLP whose report, along with the Fund's financial statements, is included in the Fund's Annual Report. The report of Briggs, Bunting & Dougherty, LLP, along with the Fund's financial statements and related notes, appears in the Annual Report that accompanies the Statement of Additional Information. You can obtain the Annual Report, which contains more performance information, at no charge by calling 1-877-333-0246.
YEAR ENDED FEBRUARY 3, 2009(1) JULY 31, TO JULY 31, -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLEAR RIVER FUND 2010 2009 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $XX $10.00 --- ------ Income from Operations: Net Investment Income(2) XX 0.07 Net Realized and Unrealized Gain on Investments XX 2.36 ------ Total From Operations XX 2.43 ------ Dividends and Distributions from: Net Investment Income XX (0.06) Net Asset Value, End of Period $XX $12.37 === ====== Total Return XX% 24.37%(3) === ====== Ratios and Supplemental Data Net Assets, End of Period (Thousands) $XX $46,148 Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (including waivers and reimbursements, excluding fees paid indirectly) XX% 1.20%(4) Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (including waivers, reimbursements and fees paid indirectly) XX% 1.20%(4) Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (excluding waivers, reimbursements, and fees paid indirectly) XX% 1.82%(4) Ratio of Net Investment Income to Average Net Assets XX% 1.32%(4) Portfolio Turnover Rate XX% 39%(5) |
(1) Commencement of Operations.
(2) Per share data calculated using average shares method.
(3) Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized.
Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived and
assumed by the Adviser during the period. The return shown does not reflect
the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund. distributions
or the redemption of Fund shares.
(4) Annualized.
(5) Portfolio turnover rate is for the period indicated and has not been
annualized
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
CLEAR RIVER FUND(R)
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Lowry Hill Investment Advisors, Inc.
90 South Seventh Street
Suite 5300
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402
DISTRIBUTOR
SEI Investments Distribution Co.
One Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND IS AVAILABLE, WITHOUT CHARGE, THROUGH THE FOLLOWING:
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ("SAI"): The SAI includes detailed information about the Fund and The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II. The SAI is on file with the SEC and is incorporated by reference into this prospectus. This means that the SAI, for legal purposes, is a part of this prospectus.
ANNUAL AND SEMI-ANNUAL REPORTS: These reports contain information from the Fund's portfolio managers about investment strategies, recent market conditions and trends and their impact on Fund performance. The reports also contain more information about the Fund's holdings and detailed financial information about the Fund.
TO OBTAIN AN SAI, ANNUAL OR SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT, OR MORE INFORMATION (PLEASE NOTE THE FUND DOES NOT HAVE A WEBSITE):
BY TELEPHONE: 1-877-333-0246
BY MAIL: Clear River Fund P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 BY INTERNET: www.clearriverfund.com FROM THE SEC: You can also obtain the SAI, Annual and Semi-Annual Reports, as well as other information about The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II, from the |
EDGAR Database on the SEC's website at: http://www.sec.gov. You may review and
copy documents at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, DC (for
information on the operation of the Public Reference Room, call 202-942-8090).
You may request documents by mail from the SEC, upon payment of a duplicating
fee, by writing to: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Public Reference
Section, Washington, DC 20549-0102. You may also obtain this information, upon
payment of a duplicating fee, by e-mailing the SEC at the following address:
publicinfo@sec.gov.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II'S INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT REGISTRATION NUMBER
IS 811-07102.
[INSERT CODE]
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
PROSPECTUS
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
FROST CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND
FROST DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND
FROST STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND
FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND
FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND
FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
FROST LOW DURATION BOND FUND
FROST TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND
FROST MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
FROST LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND
FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND
FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND
CLASS A SHARES
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
FROST INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED
THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS
THIS PROSPECTUS HAS BEEN ARRANGED INTO DIFFERENT SECTIONS SO THAT YOU CAN EASILY REVIEW THIS IMPORTANT INFORMATION. FOR DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT EACH FUND, PLEASE SEE:
Page FROST CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ........................................... XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ......................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ........................................ XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ............................................. XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ............................................. XX TAX INFORMATION ................................................ XX FROST DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ........................................... XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ......................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ........................................ XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ............................................. XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ............................................. XX TAX INFORMATION ................................................ XX FROST STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ........................................... XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ......................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ........................................ XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ............................................. XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ............................................. XX TAX INFORMATION ................................................ XX FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ........................................... XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ......................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ........................................ XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ............................................. XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ............................................. XX TAX INFORMATION ................................................ XX FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ........................................... XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ......................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ................................................ XX i |
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ........................................ XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ............................................. XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ............................................. XX TAX INFORMATION ................................................ XX FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ........................................... XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ......................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ........................................ XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ............................................. XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ............................................. XX TAX INFORMATION ................................................ XX FROST LOW DURATION BOND FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ........................................... XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ......................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ........................................ XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ............................................. XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ............................................. XX TAX INFORMATION ................................................ XX FROST TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ........................................... XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ......................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ........................................ XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ............................................. XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ............................................. XX TAX INFORMATION ................................................ XX FROST MUNICIPAL BOND FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ........................................... XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ......................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ........................................ XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ............................................. XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ............................................. XX TAX INFORMATION ................................................ XX FROST LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ........................................... XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ......................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ........................................ XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ............................................. XX ii |
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ................................................... XX TAX INFORMATION ...................................................... XX FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ................................................. XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ............................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ...................................... XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ...................................................... XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION .............................................. XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ................................................... XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ................................................... XX TAX INFORMATION ...................................................... XX FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ................................................. XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ............................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ...................................... XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ...................................................... XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION .............................................. XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ................................................... XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ................................................... XX TAX INFORMATION ...................................................... XX FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ................................................. XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ............................................... XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ...................................... XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ...................................................... XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION .............................................. XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ................................................... XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ................................................... XX TAX INFORMATION ...................................................... XX SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION ....................... XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK ............................................... XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS ................................... XX INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ...................................... XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ........................................................ XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ........................................................ XX SUB-ADVISERS .............................................................. XX PURCHASING, SELLING AND EXCHANGING FUND SHARES ............................ XX SALES CHARGES ............................................................. XX SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS ........................................ XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ...................................... XX OTHER POLICIES ............................................................ XX DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES ............................................... XX DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS ............................................... XX TAXES ..................................................................... XX FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS ...................................................... XX HOW TO OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS ...................... Back Cover |
FROST CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Core Growth Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to achieve long-term capital appreciation.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 5.75%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.80% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5%
return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
----------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ----------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ----------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund intends to invest in companies that Frost Investment Advisors, LLC (the "Adviser") believes will have growing revenues and earnings. The Fund will generally invest in equity securities of domestic companies, but may also invest in equity securities of foreign companies and American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"). The Adviser performs in-depth analyses of company fundamentals and industry dynamics to identify companies displaying strong earnings and revenue growth relative to the overall market or relative to their peer group, improving returns on equity and a sustainable competitive advantage.
The Adviser focuses on a number of factors to assess the growth potential of individual companies, such as:
o Historical and expected organic revenue growth rates;
o Historical and expected earnings growth rates;
o Signs of accelerating growth potential;
o Positive earnings revisions;
o Earnings momentum;
o Improving margin and return on equity trends; and
o Positive price momentum.
When an attractive growth opportunity is identified, the Adviser seeks to independently develop an intrinsic valuation for the stock. The Adviser believes that the value of a company is determined by discounting the company's future cash flows or earnings. Valuation factors considered in identifying securities for the Fund's portfolio include:
o Price/earnings ratio;o Price/sales ratio;
o Price/earnings to growth ratio;
o Enterprise value/earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and
amortization;
o Enterprise value/sales;o Price/cash flow;
o Balance sheet strength; and
o Returns on equity and returns on invested capital.
The Adviser also seeks to understand a firm's competitive position and the industry dynamics in which the firm operates. The Adviser assesses industry growth potential, market share opportunities, cyclicality and pricing power. Further analysis focuses on corporate governance and management's ability to create value for shareholders.
The Adviser augments its independent fundamental research process with quantitative screens and models. The models are derived from proprietary research or securities industry research studies and score companies based upon a number of fundamental factors. The Adviser uses quantitative analysis to provide an additional layer of objectivity, discipline and consistency to its equity research process. This quantitative analysis complements the fundamental analyses that the Adviser conducts on companies during its stock selection process.
The Fund seeks to buy and hold securities for the long term and seeks to keep portfolio turnover to a minimum. However, the Adviser may sell a security if its price exceeds the Adviser's assessment of its fair value or in response to a negative company event, a change in management, poor relative price performance, achieved fair valuation, or a deterioration in a company's business prospects, performance or financial strength.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over the counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do
not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
GROWTH STYLE RISK -- The price of equity securities rises and falls in response to many factors, including the historical and prospective earnings of the issuer of the stock, the value of its assets, general economic conditions, interest rates, investor perceptions, and market liquidity. The Fund may invest in securities of companies that the Adviser believes have superior prospects for robust and sustainable growth of revenues and earnings. These may be companies with new, limited or cyclical product lines, markets or financial resources, and the management of such companies may be dependent upon one or a few key people. The stocks of such companies can therefore be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies or the stock market in general.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The performance information provided includes the returns of Institutional Class Shares for periods prior to June 30, 2008. Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are offered in a separate prospectus. Institutional Class Shares would have substantially similar performance as Class A Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
The bar chart figures do not include sales charges that may have been paid when investors bought and sold Class A Shares of the Fund. If sales charges were included, the returns would be lower. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 24.25% 2004 7.75% 2005 3.90% 2006 9.63% 2007 11.93% 2008 (37.55)% 2009 XX% 5 |
BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Class A Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Class A Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Russell 1000 Growth Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS AND SALE OF FUND SHARES XX% XX% XX% RUSSELL 1000 GROWTH INDEX (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) INVESTMENT ADVISER |
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC ("Frost")
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Tom L. Stringfellow, CFA, CPA, CFP, President of Frost, and Senior Fund Manager has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Brad Thompson, CFA, Managing Director, Manager and Director of Research at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
John Lutz, CFA, Senior Research Analyst and Co-Manager at Frost, has served on the Portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Steve Coker, CFA and Senior Research Analyst at Frost, has served on the Portfolio team for the Fund since 2008.
Alan Tarver, CFA, Senior Research Analyst and Co-Manager at Frost, has served on the Portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks long-term capital appreciation and current income.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price) 5.75%(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.80% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
----------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ----------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ----------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of companies that pay, or are expected to pay, dividends. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund will generally invest in equity securities of domestic companies, but may also invest in equity securities of foreign companies and American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"). The Adviser expects that the Fund's investments in foreign companies will normally represent less than 30% of the Fund's assets.
The Adviser seeks to identify and invest in companies that have attractive valuations and a dividend that has the potential to grow as fast as inflation and whose yield is greater than the market or its sector or industry average. The Adviser considers dividends to be a significant component of total long-term equity returns and focuses on the sustainability and growth of dividends with attractive yields. To access the sustainability of a firm's dividend, the Adviser analyzes a firm's dividend history, its competitive position and the industry dynamics in which the firm operates.
The Adviser employs both quantitative and qualitative analyses to select companies that have capital appreciation and dividend growth potential, with a focus on the following stock characteristics:
o Attractive valuation based on intrinsic, absolute and relative value;
o Dividend yields greater than the market or their sector or industry;
o History of growing dividends with the likelihood of sustainable
growth of dividends;
o Attractive business models that generate the necessary cash flow to
cover and sustain the dividend and its growth; and
o Sound balance sheets.
The Adviser seeks to manage the Fund in a tax-efficient manner although portfolio turnover rates can vary, depending upon market conditions. The Adviser has disciplines in place that serve as sell signals, such as if the price of the security exceeds the Adviser's assessment of its fair value or in response to dividend yield declining below the Adviser's yield objective, a negative company event, a change in management, poor relative price performance, or a deterioration in a company's business prospects, performance or financial strength.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over the counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
INVESTMENT STYLE RISK -- The Fund pursues a "value style" of investing. Value investing focuses on companies with stocks that appear undervalued in light of factors such as the company's earnings, book value, revenues or cash flow. If the Adviser's assessment of a company's value or prospects for exceeding earnings expectations or market conditions is wrong, the Fund could suffer losses or produce poor performance relative to other funds. In addition, "value stocks" can continue to be undervalued by the market for long periods of time.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The performance information provided includes the returns of Institutional Class Shares for periods prior to June 30, 2008. Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are offered in a separate prospectus. Institutional Class Shares would have substantially similar performance as Class A Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
The bar chart figures do not include sales charges that may have been paid when investors bought and sold Class A Shares of the Fund. If sales charges were included, the returns would be lower. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 21.13% 2004 13.85% 2005 8.95% 2006 21.40% 2007 9.37% 2008 (28.41)% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Class A Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Class A Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Russell 1000 Value Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS AND SALE OF FUND SHARES XX% XX% XX% RUSSELL 1000 VALUE INDEX (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC ("Frost")
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
C. Murray Fichtner, Senior Fund Manager at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Brad Thompson, CFA, Managing Director, Co-Manager and Director of Research at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Michael R. Brell, CFA, Senior Research Analyst and Co-Manager at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Theodore H. Harper, Senior Research Analyst and Co-Manager at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Strategic Balanced Fund (the "Fund") seeks long-term capital appreciation and current income.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 5.75%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.70% --------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% --------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS -------------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal circumstances, the Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of global fixed income and equity securities. The overarching principle of Frost Investment Advisors, LLC (the "Adviser") is to structure the Fund to be well diversified across many asset classes and securities. In selecting securities for the Fund, the Adviser uses the following strategies:
o Strategic asset allocation;
o Tactical asset allocation;
o Security selection;
o Bond asset class allocation;
o Foreign currency exposure; and
o Derivatives.
Between 40% to 80% of the Fund's assets may be invested in domestic and international equity securities, including emerging markets equity securities. The balance of the Fund's portfolio will be invested in fixed income asset classes and cash. Additionally, up to 40% of the Fund's assets may be invested in non-core equity classes/styles such as real estate, infrastructure or commodities, and hedged equity, which may also be internationally diversified. The Adviser may alter these asset allocation guidelines according to its outlook for each asset class. As an alternative to directly investing in securities in these asset classes, the Fund may also invest in other investment companies, including mutual funds, closed-end funds and exchange-traded funds ("ETFs"), to gain exposure to equity and fixed-income markets. The degree to which the Fund invests in other investment companies for these purposes will vary, and at times may be significant, depending on factors such as overall Fund asset levels and the Adviser's views on the most efficient method for achieving diversified exposure to a particular asset class consistent with the Fund's investment objective. The Fund may also invest in derivatives to manage risk, increase or decrease exposure to an asset class, and/or to enhance total return. The Fund is reallocated at least annually to manage asset class drift and improve the risk-reward profile of the Fund.
The Fund's asset class selection is based on the Adviser's outlook for the reward and risks presented by each asset class. These assumptions are used in a model-driven framework to make allocation decisions. The principal strategy offers diversification and breadth by providing access to a broad array of sources of returns through exposure to a broad selection of partially correlated asset classes. The Adviser directs the
Fund's asset market allocation toward opportunities that are identified to be greater and away from those that are smaller.
The Adviser has discretion to add or remove asset classes from the Fund based on its analysis of valuation, opportunity and risk, provided the Fund's asset allocation guidelines are met.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A Fund share is not a bank deposit and it is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC, or any government agency. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
DERIVATIVES RISKS -- Derivatives may involve risks different from, and possibly greater than, those of traditional investments. The Fund may use derivatives (such as futures, options, and swaps) to attempt to achieve its investment objective and offset certain investment risks, while at the same time maintaining liquidity. These positions may be established for hedging or non-hedging purposes. Risks associated with the use of derivatives include the following risks associated with hedging and leveraging activities:
o The success of a hedging strategy may depend on an ability to predict movements in the prices of individual securities, fluctuations in markets, and movements in interest rates.
o The Fund may experience losses over certain ranges in the market that exceed losses experienced by a fund that does not use derivatives.
o There may be an imperfect or no correlation between the changes in market value of the securities held by the Fund and the prices of derivatives.
o There may not be a liquid secondary market for derivatives.
o Trading restrictions or limitations may be imposed by an exchange.
o Government regulations may restrict trading derivatives.
o The other party to an agreement (e.g. , options or expense swaps) may default; however, in certain circumstances, such counterparty risk may be reduced by having an organization with very good credit act as intermediary. Because options premiums paid or received by the Fund are small in relation to the market value of the investments underlying the options, buying and selling put and call options can be more speculative than investing directly in securities.
REAL ESTATE RISK -- The Fund may invest in funds, ETFs or companies that invest in real estate. Real estate risk is the risk that real estate will underperform the market as a whole. The general performance of the real estate industry has historically been cyclical and particularly sensitive to economic downturns.
Real estate can be affected by changes in real estate values and rental income, changes in interest rates, changing demographics and regional economic cycles.
REIT RISK -- Real Estate Investment Trusts ("REITs") are pooled investment vehicles that own, and usually operate, income-producing real estate. REITs are susceptible to the risks associated with direct ownership of real estate, such as: declines in property values; increases in property taxes, operating expenses, rising interest rates or competition overbuilding; zoning changes; and losses from casualty or condemnation. REITs typically incur fees that are separate from those of the Fund. Accordingly, the Fund's investments in REITs will result in the layering of expenses, such that shareholders will indirectly bear a proportionate share of the REITs' operating expenses, in addition to paying Fund expenses.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over the counter or listed on an exchange.
ALLOCATION RISK -- The Fund will allocate its investments between various asset classes, including derivatives. These investments are based upon judgments made by the Adviser, which may not accurately predict changes in the market. As a result, the Fund could miss attractive investment opportunities by underweighting markets that subsequently experience significant returns and could lose value by overweighting markets that subsequently experience significant declines.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of American Depository Receipts ("ADRs"), which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
EMERGING MARKET SECURITIES RISK -- Investments in emerging markets securities are considered speculative and subject to heightened risks in addition to the general risks of investing in non-U.S. securities. Unlike more established markets, emerging markets may have governments that are less stable, markets that are less liquid and economies that are less developed. In addition, emerging markets securities may be subject to smaller market capitalization of securities markets, which may suffer periods of relative illiquidity; significant price volatility; restrictions on foreign investment; and possible restrictions on repatriation of investment income and capital. Furthermore, foreign investors may be required to register the proceeds of sales, and future economic or political crises could lead to price controls, forced mergers, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, seizure, nationalization or creation of government monopolies.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK -- Because non-U.S. securities are usually denominated in currencies other than the dollar, the value of the Fund's portfolio may be influenced by currency exchange rates and exchange
control regulations. The currencies of emerging market countries may experience significant declines against the U.S. dollar, and devaluation may occur subsequent to investments in these currencies by the Fund. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation rates have had, and may continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging market countries.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are usually the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of five years means the price of a debt security will change about 5% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate.
Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-
grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
INVESTMENTS IN INVESTMENT COMPANIES AND ETFS -- ETFs are pooled investment vehicles, such as registered investment companies and grantor trusts, whose shares are listed and traded on U.S. stock exchanges or otherwise traded in the over-the-counter market. To the extent the Fund invests in other investment companies, such as ETFs, closed-end funds and other mutual funds, the Fund will be subject to substantially the same risks as those associated with the direct ownership of the securities held by such other investment companies. As a shareholder of another investment company, the Fund relies on that investment company to achieve its investment objective. If the investment company fails to achieve its objective, the value of the Fund's investment could decline, which could adversely affect the Fund's performance. By investing in another investment company, Fund shareholders indirectly bear the Fund's proportionate share of the fees and expenses of the other investment company, in addition to the fees and expenses that Fund shareholders directly bear in connection with the Fund's own operations. The Fund does not intend to invest in other investment companies unless the Adviser believes that the potential benefits of the investment justify the payment of any additional fees or expenses. Federal securities laws impose limitations on the Fund's ability to invest in other investment companies.
Because closed-end funds and ETFs are listed on national stock exchanges and are traded like stocks listed on an exchange, their shares potentially may trade at a discount or premium. Investments in closed-end funds and ETFs are also subject to brokerage and other trading costs, which could result in greater expenses to the Fund. In addition, because the value of closed-end funds and ETF shares depends on the demand in the market, the Adviser may not be able to liquidate the Fund's holdings at the most optimal time, which could adversely affect Fund performance.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The performance information provided includes the returns of Institutional Class Shares for periods prior to June 30, 2008. Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are offered in a separate prospectus. Institutional Class Shares would have substantially similar performance as Class A Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on June 30, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to June 30, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is July 31, 2006 ("Performance Start Date").
The bar chart figures do not include sales charges that may have been paid when investors bought and sold Class A Shares of the Fund. If sales charges were included, the returns would be lower. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2007 7.41% 2008 (25.01)% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Class A Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Class A Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to appropriate broad-based indices. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR (7/31/06) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS AND XX% XX% SALE OF FUND SHARES S&P 500 INDEX (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, XX% XX% EXPENSES, OR TAXES) MSCI ALL COUNTRY WORLD EX-US INDEX (REFLECTS XX% XX% NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) BARCLAYS CAPITAL US AGGREGATE INDEX (REFLECTS XX% XX% NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) BLENDED INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR XX% XX% FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) INVESTMENT ADVISER |
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC ("Frost")
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Brad Thompson, CFA, Managing Director, Senior Fund Manager and Director of Research at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Justin Hopkins, Co-Manager and Mutual Fund Analyst and Trader at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to generate a total pre-tax return, including capital growth and dividends, greater than the rate of inflation over a three-to-five year period.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 5.75%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.59% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
---------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ---------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ---------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund invests primarily in common stocks, but may also invest in other types of equity securities, such as preferred stock, convertible securities, warrants or other similar publicly traded securities. The Fund may also purchase American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs").
In selecting securities for the Fund, the Fund's sub-adviser, Kempner Capital Management, Inc., ("KCM") utilizes a deep value style of investing in which it chooses securities that it believes are currently undervalued in the market but have earnings potential or other factors that make them attractive. The securities purchased are frequently out of favor with or have been ignored by the investment community market and thus provide the opportunity to purchase at prices significantly below their true value. KCM analyzes securities on an individual, bottom-up basis, to determine which securities can deliver capital appreciation and steady dividend earnings over the long-term. The Fund may invest in companies of all capitalizations.
KCM selects securities for the Fund's portfolio based on individual stocks rather than on industries or industry groups. KCM screens a universe of approximately 7,500 stocks to find companies which meet most of its criteria for price-earnings ratio (15X), projected 12-month earnings, price/cash flow multiple, price/book multiple and price less than or equal to 20% above the 52-week low. A dividend yield is required. KCM considers it unrealistic for it to be able to purchase a stock at its bottom, and as a result, KCM purchases securities for the Fund's portfolio gradually, averaging down. KCM also considers it unrealistic for it to be able to sell a stock at its highest price level, and as a result, KCM seeks to lock in reasonable returns when they are offered and generally sells gradually as an issue rises.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over the counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
INVESTMENT STYLE RISK -- The Fund pursues a "value style" of investing. Value investing focuses on companies with stocks that appear undervalued in light of factors such as the company's earnings, book value, revenues or cash flow. If the Adviser's assessment of a company's value or prospects for exceeding earnings expectations or market conditions is wrong, the Fund could suffer losses or produce poor performance relative to other funds. In addition, "value stocks" can continue to be undervalued by the market for long periods of time.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The performance information provided includes the returns of Institutional Class Shares for periods prior to June 30, 2008. Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are offered in a separate prospectus. Institutional Class Shares would have substantially similar performance as Class A Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is July 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
The bar chart figures do not include sales charges that may have been paid when investors bought and sold Class A Shares of the Fund. If sales charges were included, the returns would be lower. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 25.47% 2004 13.91% 2005 0.98% 2006 15.24% 2007 (3.18)% 2008 (34.17)% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Class A Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Class A Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the S&P 500/Citigroup Value Index and the Lipper Multi-Cap Value Funds Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (7/31/02) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES S&P 500/CITIGROUP VALUE INDEX RETURN XX% XX% XX% (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) LIPPER MULTI-CAP VALUE FUNDS INDEX XX% XX% XX% RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC serves as investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Kempner Capital Management, Inc. serves as investment sub-adviser to the Fund ("Kempner").
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Harris L. Kempner, Jr., President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
R. Patrick Rowles, Executive Vice President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
M. Shawn Gault, Vice President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Small Cap Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to maximize total return.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 5.75%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5%
return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
------------------------------------------------ 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ------------------------------------------------ $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------------------------------ |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of small-capitalization companies. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders.
The Fund uses a multi-manager approach, relying upon two sub-advisers, Cambiar Investors, LLC ("Cambiar") and Artio Global Management LLC ("Artio Global"), with differing investment philosophies to manage portions of the Fund's portfolio under the general supervision of the Fund's adviser, Frost Investment Advisors, LLC. The Fund intends to invest in companies that Cambiar and Artio Global believe are undervalued, profitable, and capable of generating significant cash flow. In managing the Fund, Cambiar will select and manage its portion of the Fund's portfolio with a bias toward value-oriented small-cap stocks while Artio Global will select and manage its portion of the Fund's portfolio with a bias toward growth-oriented small-cap stocks. Growth-oriented managers generally select stocks they believe have attractive growth and appreciation potential in light of such characteristics as revenue and earnings growth, expectations from sell side analysts, and relative valuation, while value-oriented managers generally select stocks they believe are attractively valued in light of fundamental characteristics such as earnings, capital structure and/or return on invested capital.
In selecting investments for the Fund, Cambiar utilizes a bottom-up, research-focused investment philosophy that seeks to identify quality companies that are currently undervalued to their historical trading range, yet demonstrate catalysts not yet recognized by the market that could result in significant appreciation over a 1-2 year time horizon. While Cambiar may use various metrics in selecting securities for the Fund, a company must possess the following characteristics: attractive valuation, an identifiable performance catalyst(s) and material upside potential. In selecting investments for the Fund, Cambiar generally considers small-capitalization companies to be those companies with total market capitalizations less than $3 billion at the time of initial purchase. In implementing its sell discipline, Cambiar sells stocks once a stock reaches its price target, when there is a decline in fundamentals, or the anticipated catalyst at purchase fails to materialize. Stocks may also be sold in favor of a more attractive investment opportunity. Cambiar will also trim a holding if it becomes an outsized position within the Fund's portfolio.
In selecting investments for the Fund, Artio Global will focus on companies that generally possess the following attributes:
o companies with economic earnings or free cash flow generation;
o companies with the capability to self fund and to avoid raising additional capital;
o companies that provide products or services that change the behavior of the consumer or capital spender;
o companies that provide products or services that have an opportunity to gain market share or carve out a niche in the market; and
o companies with high gross margins and/or operating leverage with the potential for providing operating margin improvement.
Generally, Artio Global will select securities of companies whose market capitalization at the time of purchase falls (i) within the market capitalization range of companies within the Russell 2000 Index or (ii) within the range of the three year average minimum and maximum market capitalizations of companies in the Russell 2000 Index as of December 31 of the three preceding years. As of December 31, 2009, the capitalization range of the Russell 2000 Index was $10.28 million to $5.59 billion and the three year average market capitalization range of the Russell 2000 Index was $6.51 million to $5.76 billion.
Artio Global may sell securities included in the Fund's portfolio if a stock reaches its target price; relative investment opportunities exist; a company's fundamentals deteriorate; and/or if there is a distortion of a company's weighted average market capitalization.
The Fund may engage in active and frequent trading of portfolio securities to achieve its investment objective.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS ("IPO") RISK -- The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities of companies offering shares in IPOs. IPOs may have a magnified performance impact on a Fund with a small asset base. The impact of IPOs on the Fund's performance likely will decrease as the Fund's asset size increases, which could reduce the Fund's total returns. IPOs may not be consistently available to the Fund for investing. Because IPO shares frequently are volatile in price, the Fund may hold IPO shares for a very short period of time. This may increase the turnover of the Fund's portfolio and may lead to increased expenses for the Fund, such as commissions and transaction costs. By selling IPO shares, the Fund may realize taxable gains it will subsequently distribute to shareholders. In addition, the market for IPO shares can be speculative and/or inactive for extended periods of time. The limited number of shares available for trading in some IPOs may make it more difficult for the Fund to buy or sell significant amounts of shares without an unfavorable impact on prevailing prices. Holders of IPO shares can be affected by substantial dilution in the value of their shares, by sales of additional shares and by concentration of control in existing management and principal shareholders.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over the counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
ACTIVE TRADING RISK -- The Fund may engage in active and frequent trading of portfolio securities to achieve its investment objective. Active trading may cause the Fund to incur increased costs, which can lower the actual return of the Fund. Active trading may also increase short-term gains and losses, which affect taxes that must be paid.
LIQUIDITY RISK -- Particular investments may be difficult to purchase or sell. The Fund may make investments that become less liquid in response to market developments or adverse investor perceptions, which may reduce the returns of the Fund because it may be unable to sell the illiquid securities at an advantageous time or price.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The performance information provided includes the returns of Institutional Class Shares for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are offered in a separate prospectus. Institutional Class Shares would have substantially similar performance as Class A Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods
prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
The bar chart figures do not include sales charges that may have been paid when investors bought and sold Class A Shares of the Fund. If sales charges were included, the returns would be lower. Prior to February 1, 2010, the Fund employed a different investment strategy and, prior to June 29, 2010, the Fund was managed by a different sub-adviser. Therefore, the past performance shown below may have differed had the Fund's current investment strategy been in effect and had the current sub-advisers been managing the Fund. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 32.68% 2004 20.45% 2005 8.05% 2006 9.09% 2007 7.74% 2008 (39.76)% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Class A Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Class A Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Russell 2000 Index and the Russell 2500 Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES RUSSELL 2000 INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES OR TAXES)(1) RUSSELL 2500 INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES)(1) |
(1) The Fund has changed its primary benchmark from the Russell 2500 Index to the Russell 2000 Index because the Adviser and the Sub-Advisers believe the Russell 2000 Index is more representative of the type of securities in which the Fund invests.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC serves as investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Cambiar Investors LLC ("Cambiar") and Artio Global Management LLC ("Artio Global") serve as sub-advisers to the Fund.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Mr. Samuel A. Dedio, Senior Portfolio Manager and First Vice President at Artio Global, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Brian M. Barish, CFA, President, Director of Research at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Ania A. Aldrich, CFA, Senior Investment Analyst at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Andrew P. Baumbusch, Senior Investment Analyst at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Timothy A. Beranek, Senior Investment Analyst at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Maria L. Mendelsberg, CFA, Senior Investment Analyst at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Jennifer M. Dunne, CFA, Principal and International Portfolio Manager at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost International Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to achieve long-term capital appreciation and current income.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ CLASS A SHARES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 5.75%(1) offering price) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if shares redeemed have 2.00% been held for less than 30 days) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
----------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ----------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ----------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of non-U.S. issuers. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund invests primarily in common stocks, but may also invest in other types of equity securities, such as preferred stock, convertible securities, warrants or other similar publicly traded securities. The Fund may also purchase American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs").
The Fund's investments are ordinarily diversified among regions, countries and currencies, as determined by its sub-adviser, Thornburg Investment Management Inc. ("Thornburg"). Thornburg intends to invest on an opportunistic basis when it believes there is intrinsic value. The Fund's principal focus will be on traditional or "basic" value stocks. However, the portfolio may include stocks that, in Thornburg's opinion, provide value in a broader or different context. The relative proportions of these different types of securities will vary over time. The Fund ordinarily invests in stocks that may be undervalued or reflect unfavorable market perceptions of company or industry fundamentals. The Fund may invest in companies of any size.
Debt securities will be considered for investment when Thornburg believes them to be more attractive than equity alternatives. The Fund may purchase debt securities of any maturity and quality. The Fund evaluates currency risk on a stock-by-stock basis. The Fund will hedge currency exposure utilizing forward contracts if deemed appropriate by the portfolio management team. Currency hedging, if utilized, is to protect the investment thesis for a given stock from being significantly undermined by dollar/foreign currency fluctuations when we perceive currency risk to be high.
Thornburg primarily uses individual company and industry analysis to make investment decisions. Value, for purposes of Thornburg's selection criteria, relates to both current and projected measures. Among the specific factors considered by Thornburg in identifying undervalued securities for inclusion in the Fund's portfolio are: price/earnings ratio
o price/book value
o price/cash flow ratio
o debt/capital ratio
o dividend yield
o security and consistency of revenue stream
o undervalued assets
o relative earnings growth potential
o industry growth potential
o industry leadership
o dividend growth potential
o franchise value
o potential for favorable developments
The Fund typically makes equity investments in the following three types of companies:
o BASIC VALUE companies which, in Thornburg's opinion, are financially sound companies with well established businesses whose stock is selling at low valuations relative to the companies' net assets or potential earning power.
o CONSISTENT EARNER companies when they are selling at valuations below historic norms. Stocks in this category sometimes sell at premium valuations and sometimes at discount valuations. Generally, they show steady earnings and dividend growth.
o EMERGING FRANCHISES are value-priced companies that in Thornburg's opinion are in the process of establishing a leading position in a product, service or market and which Thornburg expects will grow, or continue to grow, at an above average rate. Under normal conditions, the proportion of the Fund invested in companies of this type will be less than the proportions of the Fund invested in basic value or consistent earner companies.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's
investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
When the Fund invests in foreign fixed income securities, it will be subject to risks not typically associated with domestic securities. Foreign investments, especially investments in emerging markets, can be riskier and more volatile than investments in the United States. Adverse political and economic developments or changes in the value of foreign currency can make it more difficult for the Fund to sell its securities and could reduce the value of your shares. Differences in tax and accounting standards and difficulties in obtaining information about foreign companies can negatively affect investment decisions. Unlike more established markets, emerging markets may have governments that are less stable, markets that are less liquid and economies that are less developed.
EMERGING MARKET SECURITIES RISK -- Investments in emerging markets securities are considered speculative and subject to heightened risks in addition to the general risks of investing in non-U.S. securities. Unlike more established markets, emerging markets may have governments that are less stable, markets that are less liquid and economies that are less developed. In addition, emerging markets securities may be subject to smaller market capitalization of securities markets, which may suffer periods of relative illiquidity; significant price volatility; restrictions on foreign investment; and possible restrictions on repatriation of investment income and capital. Furthermore, foreign investors may be required to register the proceeds of sales, and future economic or political crises could lead to price controls, forced mergers, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, seizure, nationalization or creation of government monopolies.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK -- Because non-U.S. securities are usually denominated in currencies other than the dollar, the value of the Fund's portfolio may be influenced by currency exchange rates and exchange control regulations. The currencies of emerging market countries may experience significant declines against the U.S. dollar, and devaluation may occur subsequent to investments in these currencies by the Fund. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation rates have had, and may continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging market countries.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate. Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse
economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
INVESTMENT STYLE RISK -- The Fund pursues a "value style" of investing. Value investing focuses on companies with stocks that appear undervalued in light of factors such as the company's earnings, book value, revenues or cash flow. If Thornburg's assessment of a company's value or prospects for exceeding earnings expectations or market conditions is wrong, the Fund could suffer losses or produce poor performance relative to other funds. In addition, "value stocks" can continue to be undervalued by the market for long periods of time.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The performance information provided includes the returns of Institutional Class Shares for periods prior to June 30, 2008. Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are offered in a separate prospectus. Institutional Class Shares would have substantially similar performance as Class A Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank and sub-advised by Thornburg and INVESCO Global Asset Management N.A. (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for
which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
The bar chart figures do not include sales charges that may have been paid when investors bought and sold Class A Shares of the Fund. If sales charges were included, the returns would be lower. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 29.61% 2004 20.26% 2005 16.82% 2006 25.13% 2007 27.08% 2008 (41.57)% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Class A Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Class A Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Morgan Stanley Capital International All Country World ex-US Index ("MSCI ACWI ex-US Index") and the Morgan Stanley Capital International Europe, Australasia, Far East Index (" MSCI EAFE Index"). After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS(3) XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES(3) MSCI ACWI EX-US INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS XX% XX% XX% NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) MSCI EAFE INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisers LLC serves as investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Thornburg Investment Management, Inc. serves as investment sub-adviser to the Fund ("Thornburg").
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
William Fries, CFA, Co-Portfolio Manager and Managing Director at Thornburg, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Lei Wang, CFA, Co-Portfolio Manager and Managing Director at Thornburg, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Wendy Trevisani, Co-Portfolio Manager and Managing Director at Thornburg, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST LOW DURATION BOND FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Low Duration Bond Fund (the "Fund") seeks to maximize total return, consisting of income and capital appreciation, consistent with the preservation of principal.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 2.75%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.50% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
----------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ----------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ----------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in fixed income securities. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund's emphasis is on total return with low volatility by investing primarily in shorter-term investment grade securities. Short-term bonds are considered more stable than longer-maturity bonds, but less stable than money market securities.
To achieve its objective, the Fund invests in a diversified mix of taxable fixed income securities. The Adviser actively manages the maturity of the Fund and purchases securities which will, on average, mature in less than 5 years. The Adviser actively manages the duration of the Fund and purchases securities such that the average weighted duration of the Fund's portfolio will typically range within plus or minus one year of the Barclays Capital U.S. 1-5 Year Government Credit Index duration. The Fund seeks to maintain a low duration but may lengthen or shorten its duration within that range to reflect changes in the overall composition of the short-term investment-grade debt markets. Duration is a measure of a bond price's sensitivity to a given change in interest rates. Generally, the longer a bond's duration, the greater its price sensitivity to a change in interest rates. For example, the price of a bond with a duration of three years would be expected to fall approximately 3% if rates were to rise by one percentage point. The Adviser, in constructing and maintaining the Fund's portfolio, employs the following four primary strategies to varying degrees depending on its views of economic growth prospects, interest rate predictions and relative value assessments: interest rate positioning based on duration and yield curve position; asset category allocations; credit sector allocations relating to security ratings by the national ratings agencies; and individual security selection.
The Fund typically invests in the following U.S. dollar-denominated fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury securities; governmental agency debt; corporate debt; asset-backed securities; taxable municipal bonds; and, to a lesser extent, residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities. The Fund's fixed income investments are primarily of investment grade (rated in one of the four highest rating categories by at least one rating agency), but may at times include securities rated below investment grade (high yield or "junk" bonds). In addition, the Fund's fixed income securities may include unrated securities, if deemed by the Adviser to be of comparable quality to investment grade.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
MUNICIPAL ISSUERS RISK -- There may be economic or political changes that impact the ability of municipal issuers to repay principal and to make interest payments on municipal securities. Changes in the financial condition or credit rating of municipal issuers also may adversely affect the value of the Fund's municipal securities. Constitutional or legislative limits on borrowing by municipal issuers may result in reduced supplies of municipal securities. Moreover, certain municipal securities are backed only by a municipal issuer's ability to levy and collect taxes.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are usually the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of three years means the price of a debt security will change about 3% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate.
Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources.
As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The performance information provided includes the returns of Institutional Class Shares for periods prior to June 30, 2008. Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are offered in a separate prospectus. Institutional Class Shares would have substantially similar performance as Class A Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
The bar chart figures do not include sales charges that may have been paid when investors bought and sold Class A Shares of the Fund. If sales charges were included, the returns would be lower. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 1.64% 2004 (0.16)% 2005 0.30% 2006 2.90% 2007 5.91% 2008 1.14% 2009 XX% |
BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Class A Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Class A Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Barclays Capital U.S. 1-5 Year Government/Credit Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON XX% XX% XX% DISTRIBUTIONS FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON XX% XX% XX% DISTRIBUTIONS AND SALE OF FUND SHARES BARCLAYS CAPITAL U.S. 1-5 YEAR XX% XX% XX% GOVERNMENT/CREDIT INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) INVESTMENT ADVISER |
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC ("Frost")
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Jeffery Elswick, Senior Fund Manager and Director of Fixed Income at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Total Return Bond Fund (the "Fund") seeks to maximize total return, consisting of income and capital appreciation, consistent with the preservation of principal.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 3.75%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
Management Fees 0.50% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
----------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ----------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ----------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in fixed income securities. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders.
The Adviser actively manages the duration of the Fund and purchases securities such that the average weighted duration of the Fund's portfolio will typically range within plus or minus three years of the Fund benchmark's duration. The Adviser, in constructing and maintaining the Fund's portfolio, employs the following four primary strategies to varying degrees depending on its views of economic growth prospects, interest rate predictions and relative value assessments: interest rate positioning based on duration and yield curve positioning; asset category allocations; credit sector allocations relating to security ratings by the national ratings agencies; and individual security selection. The "total return" sought by the Fund consists of income earned on the Fund's investments, plus capital appreciation, if any, which generally arises from decreases in interest rates or improving credit fundamentals for a particular sector or security.
The Fund typically invests in the following U.S. dollar-denominated fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury securities; governmental agency debt; corporate debt; asset-backed securities; taxable municipal bonds; collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMO's") and residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities. The Fund's fixed income investments focus primarily on investment grade securities (rated in one of the four highest rating categories by a rating agency), but may at times include securities rated below investment grade (high yield or "junk" bonds). In addition, the Fund's fixed income securities may include unrated securities, if deemed by the Adviser to be of comparable quality to investment grade.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to
cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are usually the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of five years means the price of a debt security will change about 5% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate.
Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The performance information provided includes the returns of Institutional Class Shares for periods prior to June 30, 2008. Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are offered in a separate prospectus. Institutional Class Shares would have substantially similar performance as Class A Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
The bar chart figures do not include sales charges that may have been paid when investors bought and sold Class A Shares of the Fund. If sales charges were included, the returns would be lower. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 2.54% 2004 2.59% 2005 2.21% 2006 3.35% 2007 5.30% 2008 (1.85)% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Class A Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Class A Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's
tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS(3) XX% N/A N/A FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% N/A AND SALE OF FUND SHARES(3) BARCLAYS CAPITAL U.S. AGGREGATE INDEX XX% XX% N/A RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) INVESTMENT ADVISER |
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC ("Frost")
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Jeffery Elswick, Senior Fund Manager and Director of Fixed Income at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Municipal Bond Fund (the "Fund") seeks to provide a consistent level of current income exempt from federal income tax with a secondary emphasis on maximizing total return through capital appreciation.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 3.00%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.50% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
----------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ----------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ----------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in municipal securities that generate income exempt from federal income tax, but not necessarily the federal alternative minimum tax ("AMT"). These securities include securities of municipal issuers located in Texas as well as in other states, territories and possessions of the United States. This investment policy may not be changed without shareholder approval. The Fund may invest more than 25% of its total assets in bonds of issuers in Texas.
The Adviser considers the relative yield, maturity and availability of various types of municipal bonds and the general economic outlook in determining whether to over- or under-weight a specific type of municipal bond in the Fund's portfolio. Duration adjustments are made relative to the Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index. The Adviser, in constructing and maintaining the Fund's portfolio, employs the following four primary strategies to varying degrees depending on its views of economic growth prospects, interest rate predictions and relative value assessments: interest rate positioning based on duration and yield curve positioning, with a typical range of three years; asset category allocations; credit sector allocations relating to security ratings by the national ratings agencies; and individual security selection.
Securities will be considered for sale in the event of or in anticipation of a credit downgrade; to effect a change in duration or sector weighting of the Fund; to realize an aberration in a security's valuation; or when the Adviser otherwise deems appropriate.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
MUNICIPAL ISSUERS RISK -- There may be economic or political changes that impact the ability of municipal issuers to repay principal and to make interest payments on municipal securities. Changes in the financial condition or credit rating of municipal issuers also may adversely affect the value of the Fund's municipal securities. Constitutional or legislative limits on borrowing by municipal issuers may result in reduced supplies of municipal securities. Moreover, certain municipal securities are backed only by a municipal issuer's ability to levy and collect taxes.
STATE-SPECIFIC RISK -- The Fund is subject to the risk that the economy of the states in which it invests, and the revenues underlying state municipal bonds, may decline. Investing primarily in a single state
means that the Fund is more exposed to negative political or economic factors in that state than a fund that invests more widely.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are usually the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of five years means the price of a debt security will change about 5% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate.
Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose
of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The performance information provided includes the returns of Institutional Class Shares for periods prior to August 28, 2008. Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are offered in a separate prospectus. Institutional Class Shares would have substantially similar performance as Class A Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
The bar chart figures do not include sales charges that may have been paid when investors bought and sold Class A Shares of the Fund. If sales charges were included, the returns would be lower. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 3.14% 2004 1.42% 2005 0.54% 2006 2.45% 2007 3.37% 2008 3.38% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Class A Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Class A Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES BARCLAYS CAPITAL MUNICIPAL BOND INDEX XX% XX% XX% RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) INVESTMENT ADVISER |
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Jeffery Elswick, Senior Fund Manager and Director of Fixed Income at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund's distributions of interest on municipal obligations generally are not subject to federal income tax; however the Fund may distribute taxable dividends, including distributions of short-term capital gains, and long-term capital gains. In addition, interest on certain obligations may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax. To the extent that the Fund's distributions are derived from interest on obligations that are not exempt from applicable state and local taxes, such distributions will be subject to such state and local taxes.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES, TAXES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES, TAXES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund (the "Fund") seeks to provide a consistent level of current income exempt from federal income tax with a secondary emphasis on maximizing total return.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 2.75%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.50% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
------------------------------------------------ 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ------------------------------------------------ $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------------------------------ |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, at the time of initial purchase, in municipal securities that generate income exempt from federal income tax, but not necessarily the federal alternative minimum tax ("AMT"). These securities include securities of municipal issuers located in Texas as well as in other states, territories and possessions of the United States. This investment policy may not be changed without shareholder approval.
The Fund primarily invests in securities that are of investment grade (rated in one of the four highest rating categories). The Fund may invest more than 25% of its total assets in bonds of issuers in Texas. The Adviser actively manages the portfolio, as well as the maturity of the Fund, and purchases securities which will, on average, mature in less than five years. The Fund tends to have an average duration within plus or minus one year of the Barclays Capital Three-Year Municipal Bond Index. The Fund seeks to maintain a low duration, but may lengthen or shorten its duration within its target range to reflect changes in the overall composition of the short-term investment-grade debt markets. Duration is a measure of a bond price's sensitivity to a given change in interest rates. Generally, the longer a bond's duration, the greater its price sensitivity to a change in interest rates. For example, the price of a bond with a duration of three years would be expected to fall approximately 3% if rates were to rise by one percentage point.
The Adviser, in constructing and maintaining the Fund's portfolio, employs the following four primary strategies to varying degrees depending on its views of economic growth prospects, interest rate predictions and relative value assessments: interest rate positioning based on duration and yield curve positioning; asset category allocations; credit sector allocations relating to security ratings by the national ratings agencies; and individual security selection. Securities will be considered for sale in the event of or in anticipation of a credit downgrade; to effect a change in duration or sector weighting of the Fund; to realize an aberration in a security's valuation; or when the Adviser otherwise deems appropriate.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
MUNICIPAL ISSUERS RISK -- There may be economic or political changes that impact the ability of municipal issuers to repay principal and to make interest payments on municipal securities. Changes in the financial condition or credit rating of municipal issuers also may adversely affect the value of the Fund's municipal securities. Constitutional or legislative limits on borrowing by municipal issuers may result in reduced supplies of municipal securities. Moreover, certain municipal securities are backed only by a municipal issuer's ability to levy and collect taxes.
STATE-SPECIFIC RISK -- The Fund is subject to the risk that the economy of the states in which it invests, and the revenues underlying state municipal bonds, may decline. Investing primarily in a single state means that the Fund is more exposed to negative political or economic factors in that state than a fund that invests more widely.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are usually the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of three years means the price of a debt security will change about 3% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate.
Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources.
As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The performance information provided includes the returns of Institutional Class Shares for periods prior to August 28, 2008. Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are offered in a separate prospectus. Institutional Class Shares would have substantially similar performance as Class A Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. The Predecessor Fund's inception start date is August 31, 2004 ("Inception Start Date").
The bar chart figures do not include sales charges that may have been paid when investors bought and sold Class A Shares of the Fund. If sales charges were included, the returns would be lower. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2005 (0.61)% 2006 1.49% 2007 3.04% 2008 3.31% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Class A Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Class A Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Barclays Capital Three-Year Municipal Bond Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Inception Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION (8/31/04) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES BARCLAYS CAPITAL THREE-YEAR MUNICIPAL XX% XX% BOND INDEX INVESTMENT ADVISER |
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Jeffery Elswick, Senior Fund Manager and Director of Fixed Income at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund's distributions of interest on municipal obligations generally are not subject to federal income tax; however the Fund may distribute taxable dividends, including distributions of short-term capital gains, and long-term capital gains. In addition, interest on certain obligations may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax. To the extent that the Fund's distributions are derived from interest on obligations that are not exempt from applicable state and local taxes, such distributions will be subject to such state and local taxes.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES, TAXES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES, TAXES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund (the "Fund") seeks to provide current income consistent with the preservation of capital.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 3.00%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.35% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(2) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Other Expenses are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year.
(2) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses a re incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
----------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ----------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ----------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in full faith and credit U.S. Treasury obligations. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. In selecting investments for the Fund, the Fund's sub-adviser, Kempner Capital Management, Inc. ("KCM"), tries to increase income without adding undue risk by analyzing yields. The Fund's investments include Treasury bonds, Treasury notes, Treasury Inflated Protection Securities and short-term U.S. government money market funds. In evaluating a security for the Fund's portfolio, KCM considers, among other factors, the security's interest rate, yield and maturity. KCM actively manages the maturity of the Fund and its portfolio to maximize the Fund's yield based on current market interest rates and KCM's outlook on the market.
The Fund may invest in full faith and credit money market instruments. The percentage of the Fund invested in such holdings varies depending on various factors, including market conditions. Consistent with preservation of capital, a larger percentage of the Fund's net assets may be invested in cash or money market instruments in order to provide capital and reduce the magnitude of loss in a period of falling market prices.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall. Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of five years means the price of a debt security will change about 5% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate. Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
Class A Shares of the Fund do not have a full calendar year of performance. Consequently, the bar chart shows the performance of the Fund's Institutional Class Shares from year to year and the performance table compares the average annual total returns of the Fund's Institutional Class Shares to those of a broad measure of market performance. The Fund's Institutional Class Shares are offered in a separate prospectus. Class A Shares of the Fund would have substantially similar performance as Institutional Class Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of the Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank and sub-advised by
KCM (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is November 30, 2006 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2007 7.51% 2008 2.19% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Barclays Capital Treasury Bond Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR (11/30/06) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS(3) XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS AND SALE OF XX% XX% FUND SHARES(3) BARCLAYS CAPITAL TREASURY BOND INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS XX% XX% NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors LLC serves as the investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Kempner Capital Management, Inc. serves as investment sub-adviser to the Fund ("Kempner").
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Harris L. Kempner, Jr., President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
R. Patrick Rowles, Executive Vice President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
M. Shawn Gault, Vice President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to maximize long-term capital appreciation.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 5.75%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.75% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Other Expenses are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
------------------------------------------------ 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ------------------------------------------------ $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------------------------------ |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities. This investment strategy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The equity securities in which the Fund may invest include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, rights and warrants. The Fund may invest in companies of all market capitalizations.
The Fund intends to invest in companies that the Fund's sub-adviser, Luther King Capital Management Corporation ("LKCM"), believes are likely to have above-average growth in revenue, above-average earnings, above-average returns on shareholders' equity, underleveraged balanced sheets and/or the potential for above-average capital appreciation. In selecting investments for the Fund, LKCM performs analyses of financial and fundamental criteria to identify high-quality companies, focusing on the following characteristics:
o Consistently high profitability;
o Strong balance sheets;
o Competitive advantages;
o High and/or improving financial returns;
o Free cash flow;
o Reinvestment opportunities; and
o Prominent market share positions.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day-to-day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more
established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over-the-counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through purchasing ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
Class A Shares of the Fund do not have a full calendar year of performance. Consequently, the bar chart shows the performance of the Fund's Institutional Class Shares from year to year and the performance table compares the average annual total returns of the Fund's Institutional Class Shares to those of a broad measure of market performance. The Fund's Institutional Class Shares are offered in a separate prospectus. Class A Shares of the Fund would have substantially similar performance as Institutional Class Shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities and the annual returns would differ only to the extent that the expenses of the Class A Shares are higher than the expenses of the Institutional Class Shares and, therefore, returns for the Class A Shares would be lower than those of the Institutional Class Shares. Institutional Class Shares performance presented has been adjusted to reflect the Distribution (12b-1) fees and, for the performance table, the Maximum Sales Charge (Load), applicable to Class A Shares.
Institutional Class Shares first became available on April 25, 2008, when the Fund succeeded to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank and sub-advised by LKCM (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which its performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is July 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 23.06% 2004 3.57% 2005 3.24% 2006 10.45% 2007 6.72% 2008 (34.99)% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the S&P 500 Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (7/31/02) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES S&P 500 INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisers LLC serves as investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Luther King Capital Management Corporation serves as investment sub-adviser to the Fund ("Luther King Capital").
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
J. Luther King, Jr., President of Luther King Capital, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Paul W. Greenwell, Principal at Luther King Capital, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to maximize long-term capital appreciation.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Class A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $50,000 in Class A Shares of the Frost Funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and in the section "Sales Charges" on page XX of this prospectus.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CLASS A SHARES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of 5.75%(1) offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of net asset value) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends and Other None Distributions (as a percentage of offering price) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable) None ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) This sales charge varies depending upon how much you invest. Class A Shares purchased without an initial sales charge may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within 12 months of purchase. See "Sales Charges."
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.90% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(2) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Other Expenses are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year.
(2) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
----------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS ----------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ----------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of small- and mid-capitalization companies. This investment strategy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund considers small- and mid-capitalization companies to be those companies with total market capitalizations between $1 billion and $7 billion at the time of initial purchase. The equity securities in which the Fund may invest include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, rights and warrants.
The Fund intends to invest in companies that the Fund's sub-adviser, Luther King Capital Management Corporation ("LKCM"), believes are likely to have above-average growth in revenue, above-average earnings and/or the potential for above-average capital appreciation. In selecting investments for the Fund, LKCM performs analyses of financial and fundamental criteria to identify high-quality companies, focusing on the following characteristics:
o Consistently high profitability;
o Strong balance sheets;
o Competitive advantages;
o High and/or improving financial returns;
o Free cash flow;
o Reinvestment opportunities; and
o Prominent market share positions.
The Fund does not sell stocks simply because they are no longer within LKCM's capitalization range used for the initial purchase.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over-the-counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who
hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION (4/25/08) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES S&P 500 INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisers LLC serves as investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Luther King Capital Management Corporation serves as investment sub-adviser to the Fund ("LKCM").
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
J. Luther King, Jr., President of LKCM, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Steven R. Purvis, Principal at LKCM, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Paul W. Greenwell, Principal at LKCM, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION
PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES
To purchase shares of a Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $2,500 ($1,500 for individual retirement accounts ("IRAs")). Your subsequent investments in a Fund must be made in amounts of at least $500. Systematic planned contributions are required to be at least $100.
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business (a "Business Day") by contacting the Funds directly by mail at: Frost Funds, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: DST Systems, Inc., c/o Frost Funds, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105) or telephone at 1-877-71-FROST.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares.
PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
If you purchase shares of the Funds through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), each Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary's web site for more information.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK
Investing in each Fund involves risk and there is no guarantee that each Fund will achieve its goal. The judgments of the Funds' investment managers about the markets, the economy, or companies may not anticipate actual market movements, economic conditions or company performance, and these judgments may affect the return on your investment. In fact, no matter how good a job a Fund's investment managers do, you could lose money on your investment in a Fund, just as you could with similar investments.
The value of your investment in a Fund is based on the value of the securities the Fund holds. These prices change daily due to economic and other events that affect particular companies and other issuers. These price movements, sometimes called volatility, may be greater or lesser depending on the types of securities the Fund owns and the markets in which it trades. The effect on a Fund of a change in the value of a single security will depend on how widely the Fund diversifies its holdings.
EQUITY RISK -- Equity securities in which the Funds invest include public and privately issued equity securities, common and preferred stocks, warrants, shares of ADRs and REITs, as well as shares of ETFs that attempt to track the price movement of equity indices, and rights to subscribe to common stock and convertible securities. Common stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. Preferred stock provides a fixed dividend that is paid before any dividends are paid to common stock holders, and which takes precedence over common stock in the event of a liquidation. Like common stock, preferred stocks represent partial ownership in a company, although preferred stock shareholders do not enjoy any of the voting rights of common stockholders. Also, unlike common stock, a preferred stock pays a fixed dividend that does not fluctuate, although the company does not have to pay this dividend if it lacks the financial ability to do so. Investments in equity securities in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. The value of such securities convertible into equity securities, such as warrants or convertible debt, is also affected by prevailing interest rates, the credit quality of the issuer and any call provision. Fluctuations in the value of equity securities in which a mutual fund invests will cause the fund's net asset value to fluctuate. An investment in a portfolio of equity securities may be more suitable for long-term investors who can bear the risk of these share price fluctuations.
FIXED INCOME RISK -- The market value of the Funds' fixed income investments change in response to interest rate changes and other factors. During periods of falling interest rates, the values of outstanding fixed income securities generally rise. Moreover, while securities with longer maturities tend to produce higher yields, the prices of longer maturity securities are also subject to greater market fluctuations as a result of changes in interest rates. During periods of falling interest rates, certain debt obligations with high interest rates may be prepaid (or "called") by the issuer prior to maturity. In addition to these risks, fixed income securities may be subject to credit risk, which is the possibility that an issuer will be unable or unwilling to make timely payments of either principal or interest.
FOREIGN SECURITY RISK -- The Funds' investments in securities of foreign companies (including direct investments as well as investments through ADRs) can be more volatile than investments in U.S. companies. Diplomatic, political, or economic developments, including nationalization or appropriation, could affect investments in foreign companies. Foreign securities markets generally have less trading volume and less liquidity than U.S. markets. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies, and of dividends from such securities, can change significantly when foreign currencies strengthen or weaken relative to the U.S. dollar. Foreign companies or governments generally are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to domestic U.S. companies or governments. Transaction costs are generally higher than those in the United States and expenses for custodial arrangements of foreign securities may be somewhat greater than
typical expenses for custodial arrangements of similar U.S. securities. Some foreign governments levy withholding taxes against dividend and interest income. Although in some countries a portion of these taxes are recoverable, the non-recovered portion will reduce the income received from the securities comprising the portfolio.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS
Each Fund's investment objective may be changed without shareholder approval.
The investments and strategies described in this prospectus are those that each Fund uses under normal conditions. During unusual economic or market conditions, or for temporary defensive or liquidity purposes, each Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in money market instruments or other cash equivalents that would not ordinarily be consistent with its investment objectives. If a Fund invests in this manner, it may not achieve its investment objective. The Funds will do so only if the Funds' investment managers believe that the risk of loss outweighs the opportunity for a Fund to achieve its investment objective.
This prospectus describes the Funds' principal investment strategies, and the Funds will normally invest in the types of investments described in this prospectus. In addition to the securities and other investments and strategies described in this prospectus, the Funds also may invest, to a lesser extent, in other securities, use other strategies and engage in other investment practices that are not part of their principal investment strategies. These investments and strategies are described in detail in the Funds' Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") (for information on how to obtain a copy of the SAI, see the back cover of this prospectus). Of course, there is no guarantee that the Funds will achieve their investment goals.
INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
A description of the Funds' policy and procedures with respect to the circumstances under which the Funds disclose their portfolio holdings is available in the SAI.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC, a Delaware limited liability corporation formed in 2007, serves as the investment adviser to the Funds. The Adviser is a wholly owned non-banking subsidiary of The Frost National Bank. The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 100 West Houston Street, 15th Floor Tower, San Antonio, Texas, 78205. The Adviser manages and supervises the investment of the Funds' assets on a discretionary basis. As of September 30, 2010, the Adviser had approximately $XX billion in assets under management.
The Adviser oversees the sub-advisers to the Frost International Equity Fund, the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund, the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund, the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Fund (each, a "Sub-Adviser" and collectively, the "Sub-Advisers") to ensure their compliance with the investment policies and guidelines of these Funds, and monitors each Sub-Adviser's adherence to its investment style. The Adviser pays the Sub-Advisers out of the advisory fee it receives from the Funds. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the "Board") supervises the Adviser and the Sub-Advisers and establishes policies that the Adviser and Sub-Advisers must follow in their management activities.
For its services, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at the following annual rates based on the average daily net assets of each Fund. For its services under the Sub-Advisory Agreements, each Sub-Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, by the Adviser. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its investment advisory fees for certain Funds as set forth below ("Voluntary Fee Reduction"). In addition, the Adviser has voluntarily agreed to further reduce its fees and/or reimburse expenses in order to keep total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, acquired fund fees and expenses and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding certain levels as set forth below ("Expense Limitation"). The Adviser intends to continue these expense limitations until further notice, but may discontinue all or part of these fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual Fund operating expenses and the Expense Limitation set forth below to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expense reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period during which the agreement was in place. The Adviser, however, will not be permitted to recapture the amount of any difference that is attributable to the Voluntary Fee Reduction. The table below shows the rate of each Fund's investment advisory fee before the Adviser's Voluntary Fee Reduction, the rate of the Adviser's Voluntary Fee Reduction, the investment advisory fee after the Voluntary Fee Reduction and the Adviser's voluntary Expense Limitation for each Fund, and the amount of advisory fees paid to the Adviser as a percentage of daily net assets for the fiscal year ending July 31, 2010.
FUND ADVISORY FEE ADVISER'S ADVISORY EXPENSE ADVISORY BEFORE VOLUNTARY FEE AFTER LIMITATION FEES PAID VOLUNTARY FEE FEE VOLUNTARY REDUCTION REDUCTION FEE REDUCTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost Core Growth Equity Fund 0.80% 0.15% 0.65% 1.50% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund 0.80% 0.15% 0.65% 1.50% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost Strategic Balanced Fund 0.70% 0.05% 0.65% 1.60% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep 0.59% None 0.59% 1.30% XX% Value Equity Fund ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost Small Cap Equity 1.00% for None 1.00% for 1.80% XX% assets up to assets up to $100 million $100 million 0.85% for assets 0.85% for over $100 assets over million $100 million ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost International Equity Fund 0.95% for assets None 0.95% for 1.70% XX% up to $150 assets up to million $150 million 0.90% for assets 0.90% for over $150 assets over million $150 million ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost Low Duration Bond Fund 0.50% 0.15%(1) 0.35% 1.20% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost Total Return Bond Fund 0.50% 0.15%(2) 0.35% 1.20% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost Municipal Bond Fund 0.50% 0.10% 0.40% 1.30% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund 0.50% 0.20% 0.30% 1.40% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund 0.35% None 0.35% 1.30% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund 0.75% None 0.75% 1.60% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Frost LKCM Small- Mid Cap Equity Fund 0.90% None 0.90% 1.80% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
(1) Prior to November 30, 2009, the Adviser voluntarily agreed to reduce its Investment Advisory Fee for the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund by 0.20%
(2) Prior to November 30, 2009, the Adviser voluntarily agreed to reduce its Investment Advisory Fee for the Frost Total Return Bond Fund by 0.10%.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
John Lutz, CFA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund. Mr. Lutz joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 1995 and has over 9 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor's degree in business administration from Texas A&M University and a master's degree in business administration from Our Lady of the Lake University.
Alan Tarver, CFA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund. Mr. Tarver joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2002 and has over 14 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor of arts degree in economics from the University of Texas at Austin, a master's of international management from Thunderbird and a master's of business administration in finance from Arizona State University.
Steve Coker is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund. Mr. Coker joined Frost Investment Advisors in 2008 and has over 13 years of experience in investment management. Prior to joining Frost, he worked for the Principal Financial Group in Seattle and Trusco Capital Management in Atlanta. He earned a bachelor's degree in Management from Georgia Tech and an MBA in Finance from Indiana University. Mr. Coker is a holder of the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA(R)) designation and is a member of the CFA Institute.
C. Murray Fichtner is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund. Mr. Fichtner joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 1967 and has over 24 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor's of business administration degree from Texas A&M University.
Michael R. Brell, CFA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund. Mr. Brell joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2002 and has over 17 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor's of arts degree with honors in international relations and a master's degree in business administration from St. Mary's University.
Ted Harper is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund. Mr. Harper joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2000 and has over 12 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor's degree in political science and economics from the University of Arizona.
Tom L. Stringfellow, CFA, CFP, CPA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund, the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund, the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, the Frost Total Return Bond Fund, the Frost Municipal Bond Fund, the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund and the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund. Mr. Stringfellow joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 1980 and has over 29 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor's of arts degree in business administration from Southwest Texas State University and a master's degree in economics from St. Mary's University, and also a master's degree in business administration from Texas A&M University.
Jeffery Elswick is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, the Frost Total Return Bond Fund, the Frost Municipal Bond Fund, the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund, and the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund. Mr. Elswick joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2006 and has over 15 years of investment experience. Prior to joining The Frost National Bank, Mr. Elswick served as a fixed income portfolio manager, analyst and trader at Capital One Financial Corporation from 2000 to 2006. He received a master of science in finance degree and a bachelor's of business administration degree from Texas A&M University.
Brad Thompson, CFA is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund, the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund, and the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund. Mr. Thompson joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2002 and has over 18 years of investment experience. Prior to joining The Frost National Bank, Mr. Thompson was a senior analyst with Assante Asset Management in Canada and Assante Global Advisors in Los Angeles. He received the degrees of master of commerce with honours (finance), from the University of Melbourne; bachelor of commerce with honours (finance), and bachelor of commerce and economics from the University of Tasmania at Hobart, Australia. Mr. Thompson is a holder of the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA[R]) designation and is a member of the CFA Institute.
Justin Hopkins is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund. Mr. Hopkins joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2007 and has over 5 years of investment experience. Prior to joining The Frost National Bank, Mr. Hopkins served as a representative support specialist at National Financial Partners from 2006 to 2007 and as a mutual fund analyst, intern, part-time at The Frost National Bank from 2004 to 2006 and full time student from 2002 to 2006. He received a bachelor's degree in applied arts and sciences and a master's degree in business administration from Texas State University.
SUB-ADVISERS
The Sub-Advisers for the Frost International Equity Fund, the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund, the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund, the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, the Frost Luther LKCM Equity Fund and the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund are responsible for the day-to-day management of these Funds, subject to the general supervision of the Board and the Adviser and in accordance with the investment objectives, policies and restrictions of the Funds.
O FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
Thornburg Investment Management, Inc., a Delaware corporation established in 1982, serves as the sub-adviser to the Frost International Equity Fund. Thornburg's principal place of business is located at 2300 North Ridgetop Road, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87506. As of September 30, 2010, Thornburg had approximately $XX billion in assets under management. Thornburg is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost International Equity Fund's investments.
William Fries, CFA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost International Equity Fund. Mr. Fries joined Thornburg in 1995 and has over 41 years of investment experience. He received a BS from the Pennsylvania State University and an MBA from Temple University.
Lei Wang, CFA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost International Equity Fund. Mr. Wang joined Thornburg in 2004 and has over 11 years of investment
experience. Prior to joining Thornburg, Mr. Wang served as an associate at Enso Capital from 2002 to 2004 and as an associate at Deutsche Bank Alex Brown Inc. from 2001 to 2002. He received an BA/MA from East China Normal University and an MBA from New York University.
Wendy Trevisani is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost International Equity Fund. Ms. Trevisani joined Thornburg in 1999 and has over 15 years of investment experience. She received a BA from Bucknell University and an MBA from Columbia University.
O FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND AND FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND
Kempner Capital Management, Inc., a Texas corporation established in 1982, serves as the sub-adviser to the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund. KCM's principal place of business is located at 2201 Market Street, 12th Floor, FNB Building Galveston, Texas 77550-1503. As of September 30, 2010, KCM had approximately $XX million in assets under management. KCM is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund's and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund's investments.
Harris L. Kempner, Jr. is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund. Mr. Kempner has been KCM's President since the firm's inception in 1982. He was President of U.S. National Bancshares and Chief Investment Officer for Frost Bank of Galveston (formerly United States National Bank) from 1969-1982. He received a BA from Harvard University in 1961 and an MBA from Stanford University in 1963.
R. Patrick Rowles is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund. Mr. Rowles joined KCM as Executive Vice President in 1987. He has over 32 years of experience in the investment banking and investment advisory industry and was President of R. Patrick Rowles & Company from 1981-1987. He received a BBA from the University of Texas at Austin in 1961.
M. Shawn Gault is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund. Mr. Gault is a Vice President and joined KCM in January 2001. He received an MBA from the University of Houston in 2000.
O FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND
Cambiar Investors LLC, ("Cambiar"), a Delaware limited liability company located at 2401 East Second Avenue, Suite 500, Denver, Colorado 80206, is an investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Cambiar has provided investment management services to corporations, foundations, endowments, pension and profit sharing plans, trusts, estates and other institutions as well as individuals since 1973. As of September 30, 2010, Cambiar managed approximately $XX billion in firmwide assets across four equity strategies including large-cap, small-cap, international equity and global multi-value equity strategies.
Brian M. Barish, CFA, President, Director of Research, joined Cambiar in 1997 and has over 21 years of investment experience. He focuses on the technology, media, aerospace and defense sectors. Prior to joining Cambiar, Mr. Barish served as Director of Emerging Markets Research for Lazard Freres & Co., a New York based investment bank. He has also served as a securities analyst with Bear, Stearns & Co. and Arnhold S. Bleichroeder, a New York based research firm. Mr. Barish received a BA in Economics and
Philosophy from the University of California, Berkeley, and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Ania A. Aldrich, CFA, Principal, joined Cambiar in 1999 and has over 21 years of investment experience. Prior to joining Cambiar, Ms. Aldrich was a global equity analyst at Bankers Trust, a New York based investment company, covering the financial services and transportation sectors. She began her career as a senior investor relations professional at BET PLC, a New York based communications firm. Ms. Aldrich holds an MBA in Finance from Fordham University and a BA in Computer Science from Hunter College. She also holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Andrew P. Baumbusch, Principal, joined Cambiar in 2004 and has over 12 years of investment experience. Prior to joining Cambiar, Mr. Baumbusch served as an investment analyst at Franklin Templeton, Atrium Capital and Alex Brown & Sons. Mr. Baumbusch holds an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a BA in Economics from Princeton University.
Timothy A. Beranek, Principal, joined Cambiar in 1999 and has over 18 years of investment experience. Prior to joining Cambiar, Mr. Beranek was with Resources Trust where he had responsibility for oversight of financial controls for the company's mutual fund trading relationships. He began his career with Merrill Lynch. Mr. Beranek holds a Masters in Finance from the University of Colorado and a BS in Economics from the University of South Dakota.
Maria L. Mendelsberg, CFA, Principal, joined Cambiar in 1997 and has over 17 years of investment experience. Prior to joining Cambiar, Ms. Mendelsberg served as an investment analyst for Eaton Vance Management, a Boston based investment company. Before launching her investment career, she spent many years working in retail management. Ms. Mendelsberg received a BA in Economics and Classics from Brown University, and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Jennifer Dunne, CFA, Principal and International Portfolio Manager at Cambiar Investors has over 16 years of investment experience. Ms. Dunne is responsible for non-U.S. company coverage in the energy, industrials and utilities sectors. Prior to joining Cambiar in 2005, she was a senior equity analyst at Founders Asset Management LLC. Ms. Dunne received a graduate diploma from the London School of Economics, a Masters in Economics from the University of British Columbia, a BA from the University of Colorado and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Artio Global Management LLC, ("Artio Global"), a Delaware limited liability company located at 330 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10017, is an investment adviser registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. As of September 30, 2010, Artio Global had total assets under management of approximately $XX billion.
Artio Global, through an intermediary holding company, is majority-owned by Artio Global Investors Inc. ("Artio Global Investors"), a Delaware corporation. Artio Global Investors' Class A shares have been listed on the New York Stock Exchange since September 24, 2009.
Artio Global Investors is currently 53% owned by the public and 28% owned by
GAM Holdings Ltd. (the firm's former sole stockholder). In addition, Artio's
Principals, Richard Pell (Chairman, CEO and CIO) and Rudolph-Riad Younes (Head
of International and Global Equities), each have an ownership interest of 9.5%
. GAM Holding Ltd., an asset manager listed on the Swiss Stock Exchange, is
expected to periodically evaluate its ongoing level of ownership of Artio
Global Investors.
Mr. Samuel A. Dedio is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund. Mr. Dedio joined Artio Global in 2006 as a Senior Portfolio Manager focusing on U.S. micro-, small- and mid-cap equities. Prior to joining Artio Global, he spent seven years at Deutsche Asset Management, most recently as Managing Director, Co-Lead Portfolio Manager and Co-Head of U.S. Micro, Small and Mid Cap Investment Management. His previous positions also include Senior Industry Analyst at Ernst & Young LLP and Equity Analyst with both Evergreen Asset Management and Standard & Poor's Corp.
O FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND AND FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND
Luther King Capital Management Corporation, a Delaware corporation established in 1979, serves as the sub-adviser to the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund. Luther King Capital Management's principal place of business is located at 301 Commerce Street, Suite 1600, Fort Worth, Texas 76102. As of September 30, 2010, LKCM had approximately $XX billion in assets under management. LKCM is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund's and the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund's investments.
J. Luther King, Jr. is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund. Mr. King has been President, Principal, and Portfolio Manager of Luther King Capital Management Corporation since 1979.
Steven R. Purvis is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund. Mr. Purvis has been a Portfolio Manager of Luther King Capital Management Corporation since 1996 and a Principal of the firm since 2003.
Paul W. Greenwell is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund. Mr. Greenwell has been a Portfolio Manager of Luther King Capital Management Corporation since 1983 and a Principal of the firm since 1986.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the investment advisory contract with the Adviser and the sub-advisory contracts between the Adviser and each Sub-Adviser (except Cambiar and Artio Global) can be found in the Funds' Semi-Annual Report to Shareholders dated January 31, 2010. A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the investment sub-advisory contracts between the Advisor and Cambiar and Artio Global can be found in the Funds' Annual Report to Shareholders dated July 31, 2010.
The SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed, and ownership of Fund shares.
PURCHASING, SELLING AND EXCHANGING FUND SHARES
This section tells you how to purchase, sell (sometimes called "redeem") and exchange Class A Shares of the Funds.
Class A Shares are for individual and retail investors.
HOW TO PURCHASE FUND SHARES
All investments must be made by check or wire. All checks must be made payable in U.S. dollars and drawn on U.S. financial institutions. The Funds do not accept purchases made by third-party checks, credit cards, credit card checks, cash, traveler's checks, money orders or cashier's checks.
The Funds reserve the right to reject any specific purchase order for any reason. The Funds are not intended for excessive trading by shareholders in response to short-term market fluctuations. For more information about the Funds' policy on excessive trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
The Funds do not generally accept investments by non-U.S. persons. Non-U.S. persons may be permitted to invest in the Fund subject to the satisfaction of enhanced due diligence. Please contact the Funds for more information.
BY MAIL
You can open an account with the Funds by sending a check and your account application to the address below. You can add to an existing account by sending the Funds a check and, if possible, the "Invest by Mail" stub that accompanies your statement. Be sure your check identifies clearly your name, your account number and the Fund name.
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
Frost Funds
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
Frost Funds
c/o DST Systems, Inc.
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
BY WIRE
To open an account by wire, call 1-877-71-FROST for details. To add to an existing account by wire, wire your money using the wiring instructions set forth below (be sure to include the Fund name and your account number).
WIRING INSTRUCTIONS
UMB Bank, N.A.
ABA # 101000695
Frost Funds
DDA Acct. # 9871063178
Ref: Fund name/account number/account name
BY SYSTEMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN
If you have a checking or savings account with a bank, you may purchase shares automatically through regular deductions from your account.
You may not open an account via ACH. However, once you have established an account, you can set up a systematic investment plan by mailing a completed application to the Funds. These purchases can be made monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually in amounts of at least $100. To cancel or change a plan, write to the Funds at Frost Funds, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: Frost Funds c/o DST Systems, Inc., 430 West 7(th) Street, Kansas City, MO 64105). Allow up to 15 days to create the plan and 3 days to cancel or change it.
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
You can open an account with a Fund with a minimum initial investment of $2,500 or a minimum initial investment for IRA accounts of $1,500 for Class A Shares. Minimum subsequent investments are required to be at least $500. Systematic planned contributions are required to be at least $100. A Fund reserves the right to waive the minimum initial investment in its sole discretion.
HOW TO REDEEM FUND SHARES
BY MAIL
To redeem shares by mail, you may contact the Funds directly at: Frost Funds, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: Frost Funds, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105). Please send a letter to the Funds signed by all registered parties on the account specifying:
o The Fund name;
o The account number;
o The dollar amount or number of shares you wish to redeem;
o The account name(s); and
o The address to which redemption (sale) proceeds should be sent.
All registered shareholders must sign the letter in the exact name(s) in which their account is registered and must designate any special capacity in which they are registered.
Certain redemption requests require signature guarantees by a bank or member firm of a national securities exchange. For example, signature guarantees may be required if your address of record or banking instructions have recently been changed, or if you ask that the proceeds be sent to a different person or address. Signature guarantees are for the protection of the shareholders. Before granting a redemption request, a Fund may require a shareholder to furnish additional legal documents to ensure proper authorization.
BY TELEPHONE
You must first establish the telephone redemption privilege (and, if desired, the wire redemption privilege) by completing the appropriate sections of the account application. Call 1-877-71-FROST to redeem your shares. Based on your instructions, the Funds will mail your proceeds to you or send them to your bank via wire or Automated Clearing House ("ACH").
BY SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN (VIA ACH)
If your account balance is at least $25,000, you may transfer as little as $100 per month from your account to another financial institution through a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (via ACH). To participate
in this service, you must complete the appropriate sections of the account application and mail it to the Funds.
EXCHANGING SHARES
At no charge, you may exchange Class A Shares of a Fund for Class A Shares of another Fund in the Frost Funds complex by writing to or calling the Funds. You may only exchange shares between accounts with identical registrations (i.e., the same names and addresses).
The exchange privilege is not intended as a vehicle for short-term or excessive trading. A Fund may suspend or terminate your exchange privilege if you engage in a pattern of exchanges that is excessive, as determined in the sole discretion of the Funds. For more information about the Funds' policy on excessive trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
TRANSACTION POLICIES
CALCULATING YOUR SHARE PRICE
When you buy shares, you pay the "offering price" for the shares. The offering price is the NAV per share plus any sales charge applicable to the purchase. When you sell shares you receive the NAV minus any applicable Contingent Deferred Sales Charges ("CDSC") and/or redemption fee.
You may buy or sell shares of a Fund on any Business Day. Requests to buy and sell shares of a Fund are processed at the NAV next computed after the Fund receives and accepts your order. The Funds calculate NAV once each Business Day as of the close of normal trading on the NYSE (normally, 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time). To receive the NAV on any given day, a Fund or an authorized institution must receive your order in proper form (meaning that it is complete and contains all necessary information, and has all supporting documentation such as proper signature guarantees, IRA rollover forms, etc.) before the close of trading on the NYSE that day. Otherwise, you will receive the NAV that is calculated at the close of trading on the following Business Day if the NYSE is open for trading that day. If the NYSE closes early -- such as on days in advance of certain generally observed holidays -- each Fund reserves the right to calculate NAV as of the earlier closing time. Shares will not be priced on days that the NYSE is closed for trading, including nationally observed holidays. Since securities that are traded on foreign exchanges may trade on days when the NYSE is closed, the value of the Funds may change on days when you are unable to purchase or redeem shares.
The Funds calculate their NAV by adding the total value of their assets, subtracting their liabilities and then dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding. In calculating NAV, the Funds generally value their investment portfolios at market price. If market prices are not readily available or the Funds reasonably believe that they are unreliable, such as in the case of a security value that has been materially affected by events occurring after the relevant market closes, the Funds are required to price those securities at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Board of Trustees (the "Board"). Pursuant to policies adopted by and under the ultimate supervision of the Board, their methods are implemented through the Fund's Fair Value Committee, members of which are appointed by the Board. A Fund's determination of a security's fair value price often involves the consideration of a number of subjective factors, and is therefore subject to the unavoidable risk that the value that a Fund assigns to a security may be higher or lower than the security's value would be if a reliable market quotation for the security was readily available.
BUYING OR SELLING SHARES THROUGH A FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY
In addition to being able to buy and sell Fund shares directly from the Fund through its transfer agent, you may also purchase or sell shares of the Fund through accounts financial intermediaries such as brokers and other institutions that are authorized to place trades in Fund shares for their customers ("authorized institutions"). When you buy or sell Fund shares through certain authorized institutions (rather than directly from the Fund), you may have to transmit your purchase and sale requests to these authorized institutions at an earlier time for your transaction to become effective that day. This allows these authorized institutions time to process your requests and transmit them to the Fund. Your authorized institution is responsible for transmitting all purchase and sale requests, investment information, documentation and money to the Fund on time. If your authorized institution fails to do so, it may be responsible for any resulting fees or losses.
Certain authorized institutions, including certain broker-dealers and shareholder organizations, are authorized to act as agent on behalf of the Fund with respect to the receipt of purchase and sale requests for Fund shares. These requests are executed at the NAV next determined after the institution receives the request if transmitted to the Fund's transfer agent in accordance with the Fund's procedures and applicable law. To determine whether your authorized institution is authorized to act as an agent on behalf of the Fund with respect to purchase and redemption requests for Fund shares, you should contact them directly.
If you deal directly with an authorized institution, you will have to follow their procedures for transacting with the Fund. Your authorized institution may charge a fee for your purchase and/or redemption transactions. For more information about how to purchase or sell Fund shares through an authorized institution, you should contact your authorized institution directly.
PAYMENT OF REDEMPTION PROCEEDS
Redemption proceeds can be mailed to your account address, sent to your bank by ACH transfer or wired to your bank account (may be subject to a $15 fee). Each Fund will pay for all shares redeemed within seven days after it receives a redemption request in proper form, meaning that it is complete, contains all necessary information, and has all supporting documentation (such as proper signature guarantees, IRA rollover forms, etc.). A Fund may require that signatures be guaranteed by a bank or member firm of a national securities exchange. Signature guarantees are for the protection of shareholders. Before it grants a redemption request, a Fund may require a shareholder to furnish additional legal documents to insure proper authorization. If you redeem shares that were recently purchased by check or through ACH, you will not receive your redemption proceeds until the check has cleared or the ACH transaction has been completed, which may take up to 15 days from the purchase date.
SALES CHARGES
FRONT-END SALES CHARGES -- CLASS A SHARES
The offering price of Class A Shares is the NAV next calculated after a Fund receives and accepts your request, plus the front-end sales load. Selling dealers are normally reallowed 100% of the sales charge by SEI Investments Distribution Co. (the "Distributor"). The amount of any front-end sales charge included in your offering price for Class A Shares varies, depending on the amount of your investment.
The following is representative of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund, the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund, the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund, the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund, the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund, the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund, the Frost International Equity Fund and the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund:
YOUR SALES CHARGE AS YOUR SALES CHARGE A PERCENTAGE AS A PERCENTAGE OF YOUR NET CLASS A SHARES IF YOUR INVESTMENT IS: OF OFFERING PRICE INVESTMENT ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Less than $50,000 5.75% 6.10% $50,000 but less than 4.75% 4.99% $100,000 $100,000 but less than 3.75% 3.90% $250,000 $250,000 but less than 2.75% 2.83% $500,000 $500,000 but less than 2.00% 2.04% $1,000,000 $1,000,000 and over* None None |
The following is representative of the Frost Total Return Bond Fund:
YOUR SALES CHARGE AS YOUR SALES CHARGE A PERCENTAGE AS A PERCENTAGE OF YOUR NET CLASS A SHARES IF YOUR INVESTMENT IS: OF OFFERING PRICE INVESTMENT ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Less than $250,000 3.75% 3.90% $250,000 but less than 2.50% 2.56% $500,000 $500,000 but less than 2.00% 2.04% $1,000,000 $1,000,000 and over* None None |
The following is representative of the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund and the Frost Municipal Bond Fund:
YOUR SALES CHARGE AS YOUR SALES CHARGE A PERCENTAGE AS A PERCENTAGE OF YOUR NET CLASS A SHARES IF YOUR INVESTMENT IS: OF OFFERING PRICE INVESTMENT ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Less than $100,000 3.00% 3.09% $100,000 but less than 2.75% 2.83% $250,000 $250,000 but less than 2.50% 2.56% $500,000 $500,000 but less than 2.00% 2.04% $1,000,000 $1,000,000 and over* None None |
The following is representative of the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund and the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund:
YOUR SALES CHARGE AS YOUR SALES CHARGE A PERCENTAGE AS A PERCENTAGE OF YOUR NET CLASS A SHARES IF YOUR INVESTMENT IS: OF OFFERING PRICE INVESTMENT ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Less than $100,000 2.75% 2.83% $100,000 but less than 2.50% 2.56% $250,000 $250,000 but less than 2.25% 2.30% $500,000 $500,000 but less than 2.00% 2.04% $1,000,000 $1,000,000 and over* None None |
* IF YOU ARE IN A CATEGORY OF INVESTORS WHO MAY PURCHASE FUND SHARES WITHOUT A FRONT-END SALES CHARGE, YOU WILL BE SUBJECT TO A 1.00% DEFERRED SALES CHARGE IF YOU REDEEM YOUR SHARES WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF PURCHASE.
You may qualify for reduced sales charges or sales charge waivers. If you believe that you may qualify for a reduction or waiver of the sales charge, you should discuss this matter with your broker or other financial intermediary. To qualify for these reductions or waivers, you or your financial intermediary must provide sufficient information at the time of purchase to verify that your purchase qualifies for such treatment. This information could be used to aggregate, for example, holdings in retirement accounts, Fund shares owned by your immediate family members, and holdings in accounts at other brokers or financial intermediaries. In addition to breakpoint discounts, the following sections describe other circumstances in which sales charges are waived or otherwise may be reduced. See "Reduced Sales Charges" below.
WAIVER OF FRONT-END SALES CHARGE -- CLASS A SHARES
The front-end sales charge will be waived on Class A Shares purchased:
o through reinvestment of dividends and distributions;
o through an asset allocation account advised by the Adviser or one of
its affiliates;
o by persons repurchasing shares they redeemed within the last 90 days
(see "Repurchase of Class A Shares");
o by investors who purchase shares with redemption proceeds (but only
to the extent of such redemption proceeds) from another investment
company within 90 days of such redemption, provided that the investors
paid either a front-end or contingent deferred sales charge on the
original shares redeemed;
o by employees, and members of their immediate family, of the Adviser
and its affiliates;
o by retirees of the Adviser and its affiliates;
o by employees and retirees of the SEI Investments Global Funds
Services (the "Administrator") or the Distributor;
o by Trustees and officers of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II;
o by persons reinvesting distributions from qualified employee benefit
retirement plans and rollovers from individual retirement accounts
("IRAs") previously with the Adviser;
o by persons investing an amount less than or equal to the value of an
account distribution when an account for which a bank affiliated with
the Adviser acted in a fiduciary, administrative, custodial or
investment advisory capacity is closed; or
o through dealers, retirement plans, asset allocation programs and financial institutions that, under their dealer agreements with the Distributor or otherwise, do not receive any portion of the front- end sales charge.
REPURCHASE OF CLASS A SHARES
You may repurchase any amount of Class A Shares of any Fund at NAV (without the normal front-end sales charge), up to the limit of the value of any amount of Class A Shares (other than those which were purchased with reinvested dividends and distributions) that you redeemed within the past 90 days. In effect, this allows you to reacquire shares that you may have had to redeem, without repaying the front-end sales charge. To exercise this privilege, the Fund must receive your purchase order within 90 days of your redemption. In addition, you must notify the Fund when you send in your purchase order that you are repurchasing shares. Certain tax rules may limit your ability to recognize a loss on the redemption of your Class A Shares, and you should consult your tax advisor if recognizing such a loss is important to you.
REDUCED SALES CHARGE -- CLASS A SHARES
In addition to the above described reductions in front-end sales charges for purchases over a certain dollar size, you may also be eligible to participate in one or more of the programs described below to lower your initial sales charge. To be eligible to participate in these programs, you must inform your broker-dealer or financial advisor at the time you purchase shares that you would like to participate in one or more of the programs and provide information necessary to determine your eligibility to participate, including the account number(s) and names in which your accounts are registered at the time of purchase. In addition, a Fund or its agent may request account statements if it is unable to verify your account information.
RIGHTS OF ACCUMULATION
In calculating the appropriate sales charge rate, this right allows you to add
the value of the Class A Shares of all the Frost Funds you already own to the
amount that you are currently purchasing. The value of your current purchases
will be combined with the current value of Class A Shares of all other Frost
Funds you purchased previously that are currently held for (i) your account,
(ii) your spouse's account, (iii) a joint account with your spouse, or (iv)
your minor children's trust or custodial accounts. A fiduciary purchasing
shares for the same fiduciary account, trust or estate may also use this right
of accumulation. If your investment qualifies for a reduced sales load due to
accumulation of purchases, you must notify DST Systems, Inc. (the "Transfer
Agent") at the time of purchase of the existence of other accounts and/or
holdings eligible to be aggregated to reduce or eliminate the sales load. You
may be required to provide records, such as account statements, regarding the
Fund shares held by you or related accounts at a Fund or at other financial
intermediaries in order to verify your eligibility for a breakpoint discount.
You will receive the reduced sales load only on the additional purchases and
not retroactively on previous purchases. The Funds may amend or terminate this
right of accumulation at any time.
LETTER OF INTENT
You may purchase Class A Shares of one or more Frost Funds at the sales charge rate applicable to the total amount of the purchases you intend to make over a 13-month period. In other words, a Letter of Intent allows you to purchase Class A Shares of one or more Frost Funds over a 13-month period and receive the same sales charge as if you had purchased all the shares at the same time. Each Fund will only consider the value of Class A Shares sold subject to a sales charge. As a result, shares of the Class A Shares purchased with dividends or distributions will not be included in the calculation. To be entitled to a reduced sales charge on the purchase of Class A Shares based on shares you intend to purchase over the 13-month period, you must send a Fund a Letter of Intent. In calculating the total amount of purchases, you may include in your Letter purchases made up to 90 days before the date of the Letter. The 13-month
period begins on the date of the first purchase, including those purchases made in the 90-day period before the date of the Letter. Please note that the purchase price of these prior purchases will not be adjusted.
You are not legally bound by the terms of your Letter of Intent to purchase the amount of your shares stated in the Letter. The Letter does, however, authorize a Fund to hold in escrow 5% of the total amount you intend to purchase. If you do not complete the total intended purchase of Class A Shares at the end of the 13-month period, the Funds' Transfer Agent will redeem the necessary portion of the escrowed shares to make up the difference between the reduced rate sales charge (based on the amount you intended to purchase) and the sales charge that would normally apply (based on the actual amount you purchased).
COMBINED PURCHASE/QUANTITY DISCOUNT PRIVILEGE
When calculating the appropriate sales charge rate, a Fund will combine
purchases of Class A Shares (that are subject to a sales charge) of all Frost
Funds made on the same day by you, your spouse and your minor children (under
age 21). This combination also applies to Class A Shares you purchase with a
Letter of Intent.
PURCHASERS QUALIFYING FOR REDUCTIONS IN FRONT-END SALES CHARGES
Only certain persons or groups are eligible for the reductions in initial sales
charges described in the preceding section. These qualified purchasers include
the following:
INDIVIDUALS
o an individual, his or her spouse, or children residing in the same
household;
o any trust established exclusively for the benefit of an individual;
TRUSTEES AND FIDUCIARIES
o a trustee or fiduciary purchasing for a single trust, estate or fiduciary account; and
OTHER GROUPS
o any organized group of persons, whether or not incorporated, purchasing Fund shares, provided that (i) the organization has been in existence for at least six months; and (ii) the organization has some purpose other than the purchase at a discount of redeemable securities of a registered investment company.
Investors or dealers seeking to qualify orders for a reduced front-end sales charge must identify such orders at the time of purchase and, if necessary, support their qualification for the reduced charge with appropriate documentation. Appropriate documentation includes, without limitation, account statements regarding shares of a Fund held in all accounts (e.g., retirement accounts) by the investor, and, if applicable, his or her spouse and children residing in the same household, including accounts at broker-dealers or other financial intermediaries different than the broker-dealer of record for the current purchase of Fund shares. The Distributor reserves the right to determine whether any purchaser is entitled, by virtue of the foregoing, to the reduced initial sales charge. No person or entity may distribute shares of the Funds without payment of the applicable sales charge other than to persons or entities who qualify for a reduction in the sales charge as provided herein.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGES (CDSC) -- CLASS A SHARES
You will not pay a front-end sales charge if you purchase $1,000,000 or more of
Class A Shares. However, you may pay a CDSC of 1.00% on any shares you sell
within 12 months after your purchase. The CDSC will be based on the lesser of
(1) the NAV of the shares at the time of purchase or (2) the
NAV of the shares next calculated after the Fund receives your redemption request. The sales charge does not apply to shares you purchase through reinvestment of dividends or distributions. So, you never pay a deferred sales charge on any increase in your investment above the initial offering price. This sales charge does not apply to exchanges of Class A Shares of one Fund for Class A Shares of another Fund.
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT SALES CHARGES
Your securities dealer is paid a commission when you buy your shares and is
paid a servicing fee as long as you hold your shares. Your securities dealer or
servicing agent may receive different levels of compensation depending on which
class of shares you buy. The Distributor may pay dealers up to 1% on
investments of $1,000,000 or more in Class A Shares. From time to time, some
financial institutions, including brokerage firms affiliated with the Adviser
or the Distributor, may be reallowed up to the entire sales charge. Firms that
receive a reallowance of the entire sales charge may be considered underwriters
for the purpose of federal securities law.
The Distributor may, from time to time in its sole discretion, institute one or more promotional incentive programs for dealers, which will be paid for by the Distributor from any sales charge it receives or from any other source available to it. Under any such program, the Distributor may provide cash or non-cash compensation as recognition for past sales or encouragement for future sales that may include the following: merchandise, travel expenses, prizes, meals and lodgings, and gifts that do not exceed $100 per year, per individual.
IN-KIND TRANSACTIONS
Under certain conditions and at the Funds' discretion, you may pay for shares of the Funds with securities instead of cash. The Funds generally pay sale (redemption) proceeds in cash. However, under unusual conditions that make the payment of cash unwise and for the protection of the Funds' remaining shareholders, the Funds might pay all or part of your redemption proceeds in liquid securities with a market value equal to the redemption price (redemption in kind). It is highly unlikely that your shares would ever be redeemed in kind, but if they were you would have to pay transaction costs to sell the securities distributed to you, as well as taxes on any capital gains from the sale as with any redemption. In addition, you would continue to be subject to the risks of any market fluctuation in the value of the securities you receive in kind until they are sold.
INVOLUNTARY REDEMPTIONS OF YOUR SHARES
If your account balance drops below $1,000 because of redemptions, you may be required to sell your shares. The Funds will provide you at least 30 days' written notice to give you sufficient time to add to your account and avoid the need to sell your shares. If your Frost International Equity Fund shares are redeemed for this reason within 30 calendar days of their purchase, the redemption fee will not be applied.
SUSPENSION OF YOUR RIGHT TO SELL YOUR SHARES
The Funds may suspend your right to sell your shares during times when trading on the NYSE is restricted or halted, or otherwise as permitted by the SEC. More information about this is in the Statement of Additional Information.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
Purchasing, selling and exchanging Fund shares over the telephone is extremely convenient, but not without risk. Although the Funds have certain safeguards and procedures to confirm the identity of
callers and the authenticity of instructions, the Funds are not responsible for any losses or costs incurred by following telephone instructions they reasonably believe to be genuine. If you or your financial intermediary transact with the Funds over the telephone, you will generally bear the risk of any loss.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS
The Funds may compensate financial intermediaries for providing a variety of services to shareholders. Financial intermediaries include affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Funds, their service providers or their respective affiliates. This section and the following section briefly describe how financial intermediaries may be paid for providing these services.
The Funds generally pay financial intermediaries a fee that is based on the assets of the Funds that are attributable to investments by customers of the financial intermediary. The services for which financial intermediaries are compensated may include record-keeping, transaction processing for shareholders' accounts and other shareholder services. In addition to these payments, your financial intermediary may charge you account fees, transaction fees for buying or redeeming shares of a Fund, or other fees for servicing your account. Your financial intermediary should provide a schedule of its fees and services to you upon request. The Funds do not pay these service fees on shares purchased directly. In addition to payments made directly to financial intermediaries by the Funds, the Adviser or their affiliates may, at their own expense, pay financial intermediaries for these and other services to Fund shareholders, as described in the section below.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
From time to time, the Adviser and/or its affiliates, at their discretion, may make payments to certain affiliated or unaffiliated financial intermediaries to compensate them for the costs associated with distribution, marketing, administration and shareholder servicing support. These payments may be in addition to any Rule 12b-1 fees and/or shareholder servicing payments that are reflected in the fees and expenses listed in the fee table section of this prospectus. These payments are sometimes characterized as "revenue sharing" payments and are made out of the Adviser's and/or its affiliates' own legitimate profits or other resources, and are not paid by the Funds. A financial intermediary may provide these services with respect to Fund shares sold or held through programs such as retirement plans, qualified tuition programs, fund supermarkets, fee-based advisory or wrap fee programs, bank trust programs, and insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. In addition, financial intermediaries may receive payments for making shares of the Funds available to their customers or registered representatives, including providing the Funds with "shelf space," placing it on a preferred or recommended fund list, or promoting the Funds in certain sales programs that are sponsored by financial intermediaries. To the extent permitted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and FINRA rules and other applicable laws and regulations, the Adviser and/or its affiliates may pay or allow other promotional incentives or payments to financial intermediaries. For more information please see "Payments to Financial Intermediaries" in the Funds' Statement of Additional Information.
The level of payments to individual financial intermediaries varies in any given year and may be negotiated on the basis of sales of Fund shares, the amount of Fund assets serviced by the financial intermediary or the quality of the financial intermediary's relationship with the Adviser and/or its affiliates. These payments may be more or less than the payments received by the financial intermediaries from other mutual funds and may influence a financial intermediary to favor the sales of
certain funds or share classes over others. In certain instances, the payments could be significant and may cause a conflict of interest for your financial intermediary. Any such payments will not change the net asset value or price of a Fund's shares. Please contact your financial intermediary for information about any payments it may receive in connection with the sale of Fund shares or the provision of services to Fund shareholders, as well as information about any fees and/or commissions it charges.
OTHER POLICIES
EXCESSIVE TRADING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Funds are intended for long-term investment purposes only and discourage shareholders from engaging in "market timing" or other types of excessive short-term trading. This frequent trading into and out of a Fund may present risks to the Fund's long-term shareholders, and could adversely affect shareholder returns. The risks posed by frequent trading include interfering with the efficient implementation of a Fund's investment strategies, triggering the recognition of taxable gains and losses on the sale of Fund investments, requiring the Fund to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemption requests, and experiencing increased transaction costs. In addition, because the Funds indirectly invest in foreign securities traded primarily on markets that close prior to the time the Funds determine their NAV, the risks posed by frequent trading may have a greater potential to dilute the value of Fund shares held by long-term shareholders than Funds investing exclusively in U.S. securities.
In instances where a significant event that affects the value of one or more foreign securities held by a Fund takes place after the close of the primary foreign market, but before the time that the Fund determines its NAV, certain investors may seek to take advantage of the fact that there will be a delay in the adjustment of the market price for a security caused by this event until the foreign market reopens (sometimes referred to as "price" or "time zone" arbitrage). Shareholders who attempt this type of arbitrage may dilute the value of their Fund's shares if the price of the Fund's foreign securities do not reflect their fair value. Although the Funds have procedures designed to determine the fair value of foreign securities for purposes of calculating their NAV when such an event has occurred, fair value pricing, because it involves judgments which are inherently subjective, may not always eliminate the risk of price arbitrage.
For more information on how the Funds use fair value pricing, see "Calculating Your Share Price." The Funds' service providers will take steps reasonably designed to detect and deter frequent trading by shareholders pursuant to the Funds' policies and procedures described in this prospectus and approved by the Funds' Board of Trustees. For purposes of applying these policies, the Funds' service providers may consider the trading history of accounts under common ownership or control. The Funds' policies and procedures include the following:
o Shareholders are restricted from making more than five "round trips," including exchanges into or out of a Fund, per calendar year. If a shareholder exceeds this amount, the Fund and/or its service providers may, at their discretion, reject any additional purchase orders. The Funds define a round trip as a purchase into a Fund by a shareholder, followed by a subsequent redemption out of the Fund, of an amount the Adviser reasonably believes would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
o The Frost International Equity Fund assesses a redemption fee of 2.00% on redemptions by shareholders of Fund shares held for less than 30 calendar days (subject to certain exceptions as discussed in "Redemption Fee").
o The Funds reserve the right to reject any purchase request by any investor or group of investors for any reason without prior notice, including, in particular, if a Fund or its Adviser/Sub-Adviser reasonably believes that the trading activity would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
The Funds and/or their service providers seek to apply these policies to the best of their abilities uniformly and in a manner they believe is consistent with the interests of the Funds' long-term shareholders. The Funds do not knowingly accommodate frequent purchases and redemptions by Fund shareholders. Although these policies are designed to deter frequent trading, none of these measures alone nor all of them taken together eliminate the possibility that frequent trading in the Funds will occur. Systematic purchases and redemptions are exempt from these policies.
Financial intermediaries (such as investment advisers and broker-dealers) often establish omnibus accounts in the Funds for their customers through which transactions are placed. In accordance with Rule 22c-2 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), the Funds have entered into information sharing agreements with certain financial intermediaries. Under these agreements, a financial intermediary is obligated to: (1) enforce during the term of the agreement, the Funds' market-timing policy; (2) furnish the Funds, upon its request, with information regarding customer trading activities in shares of the Funds; and (3) enforce the Funds' market-timing policy with respect to customers identified by the Funds as having engaged in market timing. When information regarding transactions in the Funds' shares is requested by a Fund and such information is in the possession of a person that is itself a financial intermediary to a financial intermediary (an "indirect intermediary"), any financial intermediary with whom the Funds have an information sharing agreement is obligated to obtain transaction information from the indirect intermediary or, if directed by the Funds, to restrict or prohibit the indirect intermediary from purchasing shares of the Funds on behalf of other persons. Please contact your financial intermediary for more information.
REDEMPTION FEE
In an effort to discourage short-term trading and defray costs incurred by shareholders as a result of such trading, the Frost International Equity Fund charges a 2.00% redemption fee on redemptions of shares that have been held for less than 30 days. The fee is deducted from the sale proceeds and cannot be paid separately, and any proceeds of the fee are credited to the assets of the Fund. The fee does not apply to the exchange of shares or shares purchased with reinvested dividends or distributions. In determining how long shares of the Fund have been held, the Fund assumes that shares held by the investor the longest period of time will be sold first. The redemption fee is applicable to Fund shares purchased either directly or through a financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer. Transactions through financial intermediaries typically are placed with the Fund on an omnibus basis and include both purchase and sale transactions placed on behalf of multiple investors. The Fund requests that financial intermediaries assess the redemption fee on customer accounts and collect and remit the proceeds to the Fund. However, the Fund recognizes that due to operational requirements, the intermediaries' methods for tracking and calculating the fee may be inadequate or differ in some respects from the Fund's.
The Fund reserves the right to waive the redemption fee in its discretion where it believes such waiver is in the best interests of the Fund, including certain categories of redemptions that the Fund reasonably believes may not raise frequent trading or market timing concerns. These categories include, but are not limited to, the following: (i) participants in certain group retirement plans whose processing systems are incapable of properly applying the redemption fee to underlying shareholders; (ii) redemptions resulting from certain transfers upon the death of a shareholder; (iii) redemptions by certain pension plans as required by law or by regulatory authorities; (iv) failed verifications; (v) involuntary redemptions; and (vi) retirement loans and withdrawals. The redemption fee will not be applied on redemptions made within the 30 calendar day period because the account does not meet the applicable minimum account
size or because the Fund is unable to verify the accountholder's identity within a reasonable time after the account is opened.
CUSTOMER IDENTIFICATION AND VERIFICATION
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account.
What this means to you: When you open an account, the Funds will ask your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow the Funds to identify you. This information is subject to verification to ensure the identity of all persons opening a mutual fund account.
The Funds are required by law to reject your new account application if the required identifying information is not provided.
In certain instances, the Funds are required to collect documents to fulfill their legal obligation. Documents provided in connection with your application will be used solely to establish and verify a customer's identity.
Attempts to collect the missing information required on the application will be performed by either contacting you or, if applicable, your broker. If this information is unable to be obtained within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Funds, your application will be rejected.
Upon receipt of your application in proper form (or upon receipt of all identifying information required on the application), your investment will be accepted and your order will be processed at the next-determined NAV per share.
However, each Fund reserves the right to close or liquidate your account at the NAV next determined and remit proceeds to you via check if it is unable to verify your identity. Attempts to verify your identity will be performed within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Fund. Further, each Fund reserves the right to hold your proceeds until your original check clears the bank, which may take up to 15 days from the date of purchase. In such an instance, you may be subject to a gain or loss on Fund shares and will be subject to corresponding tax implications. If your account is closed for this reason, the redemption fee will not be applied. You will not be entitled to recover any sales charges paid in connection with your purchase of Fund Shares.
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING PROGRAM
Customer identification and verification is part of the Funds' overall obligation to deter money laundering under federal law. The Funds have adopted an anti-money laundering compliance program designed to prevent the Funds from being used for money laundering or the financing of illegal activities. In this regard, the Funds reserve the right to: (i) refuse, cancel or rescind any purchase or exchange order; (ii) freeze any account and/or suspend account services; or (iii) involuntarily close your account in cases of threatening conduct or suspected fraudulent or illegal activity. These actions will be taken when, in the sole discretion of Fund management, they are deemed to be in the best interest of a Fund or in cases when a Fund is requested or compelled to do so by governmental or law enforcement authority. If your account is closed at the request of governmental or law enforcement authority, you may not receive proceeds of the redemption if the Funds are required to withhold such proceeds.
DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES
The Funds have adopted a distribution plan for Class A Shares that allows the Funds to pay distribution for the sale and distribution of their shares, and for distributor services provided to shareholders. Because these fees are paid out of the Funds' assets continuously, over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges. The maximum annual distribution fee for Class A Shares of each Fund is 0.25%.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
Normally, the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund, the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund, the Frost International Equity Fund, the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund, the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund each distribute their net investment income and make distributions of their net realized capital gains, if any, at least annually. Normally, the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund, the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, the Frost Total Return Fund, the Frost Municipal Bond Fund, the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund, the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund each distribute their net investment income, if any, monthly and make distributions of their net realized capital gains, if any, at least annually. If you own Fund shares on a Fund's record date, you will be entitled to receive the distribution.
Each Fund will automatically reinvest dividends and distributions in additional shares of the Fund, unless you elect on your account application to receive them in cash. To elect cash payment, you must notify the Fund in writing prior to the date of the distribution. Your election will be effective for dividends and distributions paid after the Fund receives your written notice. To cancel your election, simply send the Fund written notice.
TAXES
PLEASE CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISOR REGARDING YOUR SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ABOUT FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL INCOME TAXES. The following is a summary of the federal income tax consequences of investing in the Funds. This summary does not apply to shares held in an individual retirement account or other tax-qualified plan, which are not subject to current tax. Transactions relating to shares held in such accounts may, however, be taxable at some time in the future. This summary is based on current tax laws, which may change.
Each Fund will distribute substantially all of its net investment income and its net realized capital gains, if any. The dividends and distributions you receive, whether in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the Funds may be subject to federal, state, and local taxation, depending upon your tax situation. Income distributions, including distributions of net short-term capital gains but excluding distributions of qualified dividend income, are generally taxable at ordinary income tax rates. Capital gains distributions and distributions that are designated by the Funds as qualified dividend income are generally taxable at the rates applicable to long-term capital gains. Distributions from the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, Frost Total Return Bond Fund, Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, Frost Municipal Bond Fund, and Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund are not expected to qualify for the reduced tax rates on qualified dividend income. The Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, Frost Total Return Bond Fund, and Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund are each expected to make primarily ordinary income distributions. Because the Frost Municipal Bond Fund and Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund invest primarily in municipal bonds, the dividends you receive from these Funds will generally be exempt from regular federal income tax. All or a portion of these dividends, however, may be subject to state and local taxes or to the federal alternative minimum tax. Although the Frost Municipal Bond Fund and Frost Low Duration
Municipal Bond Fund do not seek to realize taxable income or capital gains, these Funds may realize and distribute taxable income or capital gains from time to time as a result of their normal investment activities. Once a year the Funds will send you a statement showing the types and total amount of distributions you received during the previous year. You should note that if you purchase shares just before a distribution, the purchase price would reflect the amount of the upcoming distribution. In this case, you would be taxed on the entire amount of the distribution received, even though, as an economic matter, the distribution simply constitutes a return of your investment. This is known as "buying a dividend" and should be avoided by taxable investors. Call 1-877-71-FROST to find out when a Fund expects to make a distribution to shareholders.
Each sale of shares of a Fund may be a taxable event. For tax purposes, an exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different fund is the same as a sale. A sale may result in a capital gain or loss to you. For tax purposes, an exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different Fund is the same as a sale. The gain or loss generally will be treated as short term if you held the shares 12 months or less, long term if you held the shares for longer.
Many states grant tax-free status to dividends paid to you from interest earned on direct obligations of the U.S. government, subject in some states to minimum investment requirements that must be met by the Funds. Investment in Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae") or Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") securities, banker's acceptances, commercial paper, and repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government securities do not generally qualify for such tax-free treatment. The rules on exclusion of this income are different for corporate shareholders.
To the extent that a Fund invests in foreign securities, it may be subject to foreign withholding taxes with respect to dividends or interest the Fund received from sources in foreign countries. A Fund may elect to treat some of those taxes as a distribution to shareholders, which would allow shareholders to offset some of their U.S. federal income tax. A Fund will notify you if it makes such an election and provide you with the information necessary to reflect foreign taxes paid on your income tax return.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TAXES IS IN THE SAI.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The table that follows presents performance information about each Fund. The information is intended to help you understand each Fund's financial performance for the period of the Fund's operations. Some of this information reflects financial information for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that you would have earned (or lost) on an investment in a Fund, assuming you reinvested all of your dividends and distributions. The information provided below has been derived from each Fund's financial statements, which have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP whose report, and each Fund's financial statements, are included in the Funds' Annual Report. The report of Ernst & Young LLP, along with each Fund's financial statements and related notes, appears in the Annual Report that accompanies the Statement of Additional Information. You can obtain the Annual Report, which contains more performance information, at no charge by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT EACH PERIOD
FOR THE PERIODS ENDED JULY 31, 2010
CLASS A SHARES(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ NET REALIZED AND NET ASSET NET UNREALIZED DIVIDENDS DISTRIBUTIONS VALUE, INVESTMENT GAINS (LOSSES) ON TOTAL FROM NET FROM TOTAL NET ASSET BEGINNING INCOME INVESTMENTS AND FROM INVESTMENT REALIZED DIVIDENDS & VALUE, END OF PERIOD (LOSS)(10) FOREIGN CURRENCY OPERATIONS INCOME GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS OF PERIOD ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.34 $ 0.01 $(1.75) $(1.74) $(0.01) $ -- $(0.01) $7.59 2008 (8) 9.66 0.00(6) (0.32) (0.32) -- -- -- 9.34 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.20 $ 0.19 $(1.62) $(1.43) $(0.19) $(0.15) $(0.34) $7.43 2008 (8) 9.32 0.02 (0.12) (0.10) (0.02) -- (0.02) 9.20 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.76 $ 0.28 $(1.09) $(0.81) $(0.28) $ -- $(0.28) $8.67 2008 (8) 10.00 0.01 (0.24) (0.23) (0.01) -- (0.01) 9.76 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.08 $ 0.19 $(1.74) $(1.55) $(0.19) $(0.14) $(0.33) $7.20 2008 (8) 9.09 0.01 0.03 0.04 (0.05) -- (0.05) 9.08 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.61 $(0.03) $(2.59) $(2.62) $ -- $(0.07) $(0.07) $6.92 2008 (8) 9.83 (0.01) (0.21) (0.22) -- -- -- 9.61 |
RATIO OF EXPENSES TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS RATIO OF NET RATIO OF (EXCLUDING INVESTMENT NET ASSETS, EXPENSES WAIVERS INCOME (LOSS) PORTFOLIO TOTAL END OF PERIOD TO AVERAGE AND FEES PAID TO AVERAGE TURNOVER RETURN(3) (000) NET ASSETS INDIRECTLY) NET ASSETS RATE ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (18.60)%(4) $43,705 1.10% 1.25% 0.14% 72% 2008 (8) (3.31)(4) 41,112 1.04(1) 1.19(1) 0.52(1) 5%(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (15.08)%(4) $18,238 1.11% 1.26% 2.69% 65% 2008 (8) (1.07)(4) 11,099 1.06(1) 1.21(1) 2.65(1) 34%(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (7.88)%(4) $ 6,540 1.45% 1.50% 3.50% 33% 2008 (8) (2.27)(4) 6,860 1.60(1) 2.04(1) 0.69(1) 9%(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (16.54)% $26,289 1.06% 1.06% 2.76% 12% 2008 (8) 0.43 35,014 0.99* 0.99(1) 1.44(1) 11%(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (27.15)% $18,840 1.50% 1.50% (0.51)% 273% 2008 (8) (2.24) 21,288 1.44(1) 1.44(1) (0.73)(1) 110%(2) |
1 Annualized.
2 Not annualized.
3 Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized. Returns
shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on
Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total return would have
been lower had certain expenses not been waived and assumed by the Advisor
during the period. Total return figures do not include applicable sales loads.
4 Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived and
assumed by the Adviser during the period.
5 Portfolio turnover rate is for the Fund for the year ended July 31, 2009
6 Amount represents less than $0.01.
7 Commenced operations on April 25, 2008
8 Commenced operations on June 30, 2008.
9 Commenced operations in August 28, 2008.
10 Per share data calculated using the average shares method.
AMOUNTS DESIGNATED AS "--" ARE EITHER $0 OR HAVE BEEN ROUNDED TO $0.
FOR A SHARE OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT EACH PERIOD
FOR THE PERIODS ENDED JULY 31, 2010
CLASS A SHARES(2) NET REALIZED AND NET ASSET NET UNREALIZED DIVIDENDS DISTRIBUTIONS VALUE, INVESTMENT GAINS (LOSSES) ON TOTAL FROM NET FROM TOTAL NET ASSET BEGINNING INCOME INVESTMENTS AND FROM INVESTMENT REALIZED DIVIDENDS & VALUE, END OF PERIOD (LOSS)(10) FOREIGN CURRENCY OPERATIONS INCOME GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS OF PERIOD ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.01 $ 0.07 $(1.71) $(1.64) $(0.19) $ -- $(0.07) $ 7.18 2008 (8) 9.31 (0.00)(6) (0.30) (0.30) -- -- -- 9.01 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LOW DURATION BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $10.01 $ 0.45 $ 0.30 $ 0.75 $(0.44) $(0.00)(6) $(0.44) $10.32 2008 (8) 10.04 0.03 (0.03) -- (0.03) -- (0.03) 10.01 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.89 $ 0.55 $ 0.28 $ 0.83 $(0.53) $(0.02) $(0.55) $10.17 2008 (8) 9.95 0.04 (0.06) (0.02) (0.04) -- (0.04) 9.89 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MUNICIPAL BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (9) $10.06 $ 0.30 $ 0.24 $ 0.54 $(0.32) $(0.00)+ $(0.32) $10.28 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (9) $10.04 $ 0.18 $ 0.21 $ 0.39 $(0.21) $ -- $(0.21) $10.22 |
RATIO OF EXPENSES TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS RATIO OF NET RATIO OF (EXCLUDING INVESTMENT NET ASSETS, EXPENSES WAIVERS INCOME (LOSS) PORTFOLIO TOTAL END OF PERIOD TO AVERAGE AND FEES PAID TO AVERAGE TURNOVER RETURN(3) (000) NET ASSETS INDIRECTLY) NET ASSETS RATE ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (17.65)% $36,191 1.46% 1.46% 1.07% 51% 2008 (8) (3.22)% 41,937 1.25%(1) 1.25%(1) (0.20)%(1) 16(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LOW DURATION BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 7.74%(4) $22,597 0.77% 0.97% 4.53% 56% 2008 (8) (0.02)(4) 26,293 0.73%(1) 0.93%(1) 3.32%(1) 8%(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 8.82%(4) $54,777 0.84% 0.94% 5.73% 67% 2008 (8) (0.21)(4) 49,258 0.81%(1) 0.92%(1) 4.69%(1) 12%(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MUNICIPAL BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (9) 5.48%(4) $ 668 0.87%(1) 0.97%(1) 3.15%(1) 14%(2,5) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (9) 3.89%(4) $ 591 0.86%(1) 1.06%(1) 1.89%(1) 27%(2,5) |
1 Annualized.
2 Not annualized.
3 Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized. Returns
shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on
Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total return would have
been lower had certain expenses not been waived and assumed by the Advisor
during the period. Total return figures do not include applicable sales loads.
4 Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived and
assumed by the Adviser during the period.
5 Portfolio turnover rate is for the Fund for the year ended July 31, 2009
6 Amount represents less than $0.01.
7 Commenced operations on April 25, 2008
8 Commenced operations on June 30, 2008.
9 Commenced operations in August 28, 2008.
10 Per share data calculated using the average shares method.
AMOUNTS DESIGNATED AS "--" ARE EITHER $0 OR HAVE BEEN ROUNDED TO $0.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
FROST FUNDS
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC
100 West Houston Street, 15th Floor Tower
San Antonio, Texas 78205-1414
SUB-ADVISERS
Thornburg Investment Management, Inc.
2300 North Ridgetop Road
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87506
Kempner Capital Management, Inc.
2201 Market Street, 12th Floor FNB Building
Galveston, Texas 77550-1503
Cambiar Investors LLC
2401 East Second Avenue, Suite 500
Denver, Colorado 80206
Artio Global Management LLC
330 Madison Avenue
New York, New York 10017
Luther King Capital Management Corporation
301 Commerce Street, Suite 1600
Fort Worth, Texas 76102-4140
DISTRIBUTOR
SEI Investments Distribution Co.
One Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS IS AVAILABLE, WITHOUT CHARGE, THROUGH THE FOLLOWING:
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ("SAI"): The SAI includes detailed information about the Funds and The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II. The SAI is on file with the SEC and is incorporated by reference into this prospectus. This means that the SAI, for legal purposes, is a part of this prospectus.
ANNUAL AND SEMI-ANNUAL REPORTS: These reports contain information from the Funds' portfolio managers about investment strategies, recent market conditions and trends and their impact on Fund performance. The reports also contain more information about the Funds' holdings and detailed financial information about the Funds.
TO OBTAIN AN SAI, ANNUAL OR SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT, OR MORE INFORMATION (PLEASE NOTE THAT THE FUNDS DO NOT HAVE A WEBSITE):
BY TELEPHONE: 1-877-71-FROST (1-877-713-7678)
BY MAIL: Frost Funds P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 FROM THE SEC: You can also obtain the SAI, as well as other information about |
The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II, from the EDGAR Database on the SEC's website at: http://www.sec.gov. You may review and copy documents at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, DC (for information on the operation of the Public Reference Room, call 202-942-8090). You may request documents by mail from the SEC, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by writing to: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Public Reference Section, Washington, DC 20549. You may also obtain this information, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by e-mailing the SEC at the following address: publicinfo@sec.gov.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II'S INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT REGISTRATION NUMBER
IS 811-07102.
[INSERT CODE]
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
PROSPECTUS
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
FROST CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND
FROST DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND
FROST STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND
FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND
FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND
FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
FROST LOW DURATION BOND FUND
FROST TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND
FROST MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
FROST LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND
FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND
FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
FROST INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS
This prospectus has been arranged into different sections so that you can easily review this important information. For detailed information about each Fund, please see:
Page FROST CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX |
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST LOW DURATION BOND FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST MUNICIPAL BOND FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX |
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................XX SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION .........XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK .................................XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS .....................XX INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ........................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ..........................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ..........................................XX SUB-ADVISERS ................................................XX PURCHASING, SELLING AND EXCHANGING FUND SHARES ..............XX SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS ..........................XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ........................XX OTHER POLICIES ..............................................XX DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES .................................XX DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS .................................XX TAXES .......................................................XX FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS ........................................XX HOW TO OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS ......Back Cover |
FROST CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Core Growth Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to achieve long-term capital appreciation.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Institutional Class Shares --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees 0.80% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund
intends to invest in companies that Frost Investment Advisors, LLC (the "Adviser") believes will have growing revenues and earnings. The Fund will generally invest in equity securities of domestic companies, but may also invest in equity securities of foreign companies and American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"). The Adviser performs in-depth analyses of company fundamentals and industry dynamics to identify companies displaying strong earnings and revenue growth relative to the overall market or relative to their peer group, improving returns on equity and a sustainable competitive advantage.
The Adviser focuses on a number of factors to assess the growth potential of individual companies, such as:
o Historical and expected organic revenue growth rates;
o Historical and expected earnings growth rates;
o Signs of accelerating growth potential;
o Positive earnings revisions;
o Earnings momentum;
o Improving margin and return on equity trends; and
o Positive price momentum.
When an attractive growth opportunity is identified, the Adviser seeks to independently develop an intrinsic valuation for the stock. The Adviser believes that the value of a company is determined by discounting the company's future cash flows or earnings. Valuation factors considered in identifying securities for the Fund's portfolio include:
o Price/earnings ratio;
o Price/sales ratio; o Price/earnings to growth ratio;
o Enterprise value/earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and
amortization;
o Enterprise value/sales;
o Price/cash flow;
o Balance sheet strength; and
o Returns on equity and returns on invested capital.
The Adviser also seeks to understand a firm's competitive position and the industry dynamics in which the firm operates. The Adviser assesses industry growth potential, market share opportunities, cyclicality and pricing power. Further analysis focuses on corporate governance and management's ability to create value for shareholders.
The Adviser augments its independent fundamental research process with quantitative screens and models. The models are derived from proprietary research or securities industry research studies and score companies based upon a number of fundamental factors. The Adviser uses quantitative analysis to provide an additional layer of objectivity, discipline and consistency to its equity research process. This quantitative analysis complements the fundamental analyses that the Adviser conducts on companies during its stock selection process.
The Fund seeks to buy and hold securities for the long term and seeks to keep portfolio turnover to a minimum. However, the Adviser may sell a security if its price exceeds the Adviser's assessment of its fair value or in response to a negative company event, a change in management, poor relative price performance, achieved fair valuation, or a deterioration in a company's business prospects, performance or financial strength.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over the counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
GROWTH STYLE RISK-- The price of equity securities rises and falls in response to many factors, including the historical and prospective earnings of the issuer of the stock, the value of its assets, general economic conditions, interest rates, investor perceptions, and market liquidity. The Fund may invest in securities of companies that the Adviser believes have superior prospects for robust and sustainable growth of revenues and earnings. These may be companies with new, limited or cyclical product lines, markets or financial resources, and the management of such companies may be dependent upon one or a few key people. The stocks of such companies can therefore be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies or the stock market in general.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's
average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 24.56% 2004 8.07% 2005 4.16% 2006 9.90% 2007 12.18% 2008 (37.41)% 2009 XX% |
Best Quarter Worst Quarter XX% (XX)%
(XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX)
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Russell 1000 Growth Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES RUSSELL 1000 GROWTH INDEX (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC ("Frost")
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Tom L. Stringfellow, CFA, CPA, CFP, President of Frost and Senior Fund Manager, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Brad Thompson, CFA, Managing Director, Manager and Director of Research at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
John Lutz, CFA, Senior Research Analyst and Co-Manager at Frost, has served on the Portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Steve Coker, CFA and Senior Research Analyst at Frost, has served on the Portfolio team for the Fund since 2008.
Alan Tarver, CFA, Senior Research Analyst and Co-Manager at Frost, has served on the Portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
For important information about the purchase and sale of Fund shares and financial intermediary compensation, please turn to "Summary Information about the Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares and Financial Intermediary Compensation" on page XX of the prospectus.
FROST DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks long-term capital appreciation and current income.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Institutional Class Shares --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees 0.80% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of companies that pay, or are expected to pay, dividends. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund will generally invest in equity securities of domestic companies, but may also invest in equity securities of foreign companies and American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"). The Adviser expects that the Fund's investments in foreign companies will normally represent less than 30% of the Fund's assets.
The Adviser seeks to identify and invest in companies that have attractive valuations and a dividend that has the potential to grow as fast as inflation and whose yield is greater than the market or its sector or industry average. The Adviser considers dividends to be a significant component of total long-term equity returns and focuses on the sustainability and growth of dividends with attractive yields. To access the sustainability of a firm's dividend, the Adviser analyzes a firm's dividend history, its competitive position and the industry dynamics in which the firm operates.
The Adviser employs both quantitative and qualitative analyses to select companies that have capital appreciation and dividend growth potential, with a focus on the following stock characteristics:
o Attractive valuation based on intrinsic, absolute and relative value;
o Dividend yields greater than the market or their sector or industry;
o History of growing dividends with the likelihood of sustainable
growth of dividends;
o Attractive business models that generate the necessary cash flow to
cover and sustain the dividend and its growth; and
o Sound balance sheets.
The Adviser seeks to manage the Fund in a tax-efficient manner although portfolio turnover rates can vary, depending upon market conditions. The Adviser has disciplines in place that serve as sell signals, such as if the price of the security exceeds the Adviser's assessment of its fair value or in response to dividend yield declining below the Adviser's yield objective, a negative company event, a change in management, poor relative price performance, or a deterioration in a company's business prospects, performance or financial strength.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-
capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over the counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
INVESTMENT STYLE RISK -- The Fund pursues a "value style" of investing. Value investing focuses on companies with stocks that appear undervalued in light of factors such as the company's earnings, book value, revenues or cash flow. If the Adviser's assessment of a company's value or prospects for exceeding earnings expectations or market conditions is wrong, the Fund could suffer losses or produce poor performance relative to other funds. In addition, "value stocks" can continue to be undervalued by the market for long periods of time.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided inludes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 21.37% 2004 14.28% 2005 9.13% 2006 21.77% 2007 9.61% |
2008 (28.25)% 2009 XX%
Best Quarter Worst Quarter XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Russell 1000 Value Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
1 YEAR 5 YEARS SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE (5/31/02) ----------------------------------------- ------ ------- ----------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES RUSSELL 1000 VALUE INDEX (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) INVESTMENT ADVISER |
Frost Investment Advisors, Llc ("Frost")
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
C. Murray Fichtner, Senior Fund Manager at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Brad Thompson, CFA, Managing Director, Co-Manager and Director of Research at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Michael R. Brell, CFA, Senior Research Analyst and Co-Manager at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Theodore H. Harper, Senior Research Analyst and Co-Manager at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
For important information about the purchase and sale of Fund shares and financial intermediary compensation, please turn to "Summary Information about the Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares and Financial Intermediary Compensation" on page XX of the prospectus.
FROST STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Strategic Balanced Fund (the "Fund") seeks long-term capital appreciation and current income.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees 0.70% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal circumstances, the Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in a diversified portfolio of global fixed income and equity securities. The overarching principle of Frost Investment Advisors, LLC (the "Adviser") is to structure the Fund to be well diversified across many asset classes and securities. In selecting securities for the Fund, the Adviser uses the following strategies:
o Strategic asset allocation;
o Tactical asset allocation;
o Security selection;
o Bond asset class allocation;
o Foreign currency exposure; and
o Derivatives.
Between 40% to 80% of the Fund's assets may be invested in domestic and international equity securities, including emerging markets equity securities. The balance of the Fund's portfolio will be invested in fixed income asset classes and cash. Additionally, up to 40% of the Fund's assets may be invested in non-core equity classes/styles such as real estate, infrastructure or commodities, and hedged equity, which may also be internationally diversified. The Adviser may alter these asset allocation guidelines according to its outlook for each asset class. As an alternative to directly investing in securities in these asset classes, the Fund may also invest in other investment companies, including mutual funds, closed-end funds and exchange-traded funds ("ETFs"), to gain exposure to equity and fixed-income markets. The degree to which the Fund invests in other investment companies for these purposes will vary, and at times may be significant, depending on factors such as overall Fund asset levels and the Adviser's views on the most efficient method for achieving diversified exposure to a particular asset class consistent with the Fund's investment objective. The Fund may also invest in derivatives to manage risk, increase or decrease exposure to an asset class, and/or to enhance total return. The Fund is reallocated at least annually to manage asset class drift and improve the risk-reward profile of the Fund.
The Fund's asset class selection is based on the Adviser's outlook for the reward and risks presented by each asset class. These assumptions are used in a model-driven framework to make allocation decisions. The principal strategy offers diversification and breadth by providing access to a broad array of sources of returns through exposure to a broad selection of partially correlated asset classes. The Adviser directs the Fund's asset market allocation toward opportunities that are identified to be greater and away from those that are smaller.
The Adviser has discretion to add or remove asset classes from the Fund based on its analysis of valuation, opportunity and risk, provided the Fund's asset allocation guidelines are met.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
DERIVATIVES RISKS -- Derivatives may involve risks different from, and possibly greater than, those of traditional investments. The Fund may use derivatives (such as futures, options, and swaps) to attempt to achieve its investment objective and offset certain investment risks, while at the same time maintaining liquidity. These positions may be established for hedging or non-hedging purposes. Risks associated with the use of derivatives include the following risks associated with hedging and leveraging activities:
o The success of a hedging strategy may depend on an ability to predict movements in the prices of individual securities, fluctuations in markets, and movements in interest rates.
o The Fund may experience losses over certain ranges in the market that exceed losses experienced by a fund that does not use derivatives.
o There may be an imperfect or no correlation between the changes in market value of the securities held by the Fund and the prices of derivatives.
o There may not be a liquid secondary market for derivatives.
o Trading restrictions or limitations may be imposed by an exchange.
o Government regulations may restrict trading derivatives.
o The other party to an agreement (e. g. , options or expense swaps) may default; however, in certain circumstances, such counterparty risk may be reduced by having an organization with very good credit act as intermediary. Because options premiums paid or received by the Fund are small in relation to the market value of the investments underlying the options, buying and selling put and call options can be more speculative than investing directly in securities.
REAL ESTATE RISK -- The Fund may invest in funds, ETFs or companies that invest in real estate. Real estate risk is the risk that real estate will underperform the market as a whole. The general performance of the real estate industry has historically been cyclical and particularly sensitive to economic downturns. Real estate can be affected by changes in real estate values and rental income, changes in interest rates, changing demographics and regional economic cycles.
REIT RISK -- Real Estate Investment Trusts ("REITs") are pooled investment vehicles that own, and usually operate, income-producing real estate. REITs are susceptible to the risks associated with direct ownership of real estate, such as: declines in property values; increases in property taxes, operating expenses, rising interest rates or competition overbuilding; zoning changes; and losses from casualty or condemnation. REITs typically incur fees that are separate from those of the Fund. Accordingly, the Fund's investments in REITs will result in the layering of expenses, such that shareholders will indirectly bear a proportionate share of the REITs' operating expenses, in addition to paying Fund expenses.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over the counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of American Depository Receipts ("ADRs"), which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
ALLOCATION RISK -- The Fund will allocate its investments between various asset classes, including derivatives. These investments are based upon judgments made by the Adviser, which may not accurately predict changes in the market. As a result, the Fund could miss attractive investment opportunities by underweighting markets that subsequently experience significant returns and could lose value by overweighting markets that subsequently experience significant declines.
EMERGING MARKET SECURITIES RISK -- Investments in emerging markets securities are considered speculative and subject to heightened risks in addition to the general risks of investing in non-U.S. securities. Unlike more established markets, emerging markets may have governments that are less stable, markets that are less liquid and economies that are less developed. In addition, emerging markets securities may be subject to smaller market capitalization of securities markets, which may suffer periods of relative illiquidity; significant price volatility; restrictions on foreign investment; and possible restrictions on repatriation of investment income and capital. Furthermore, foreign investors may be required to register the proceeds of sales, and future economic or political crises could lead to price controls, forced mergers, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, seizure, nationalization or creation of government monopolies.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK -- Because non-U.S. securities are usually denominated in currencies other than the dollar, the value of the Fund's portfolio may be influenced by currency exchange rates and exchange control regulations. The currencies of emerging market countries may experience significant declines against the U.S. dollar, and devaluation may occur subsequent to investments in these currencies by the Fund. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation rates have had, and may continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging market countries.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are usually the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of five years means the price of a debt security will change about 5% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity
date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate.
Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
INVESTMENTS IN INVESTMENT COMPANIES AND ETFS -- ETFs are pooled investment vehicles, such as registered investment companies and grantor trusts, whose shares are listed and traded on U.S. stock exchanges or otherwise traded in the over-the-counter market. To the extent the Fund invests in other investment companies, such as ETFs closed-end funds and other mutual funds, the Fund will be subject to substantially the same risks as those associated with the direct ownership of the securities held by such other investment companies. As a shareholder of another investment company, the Fund relies on that investment company to achieve its investment objective. If the investment company fails to achieve its objective, the value of the Fund's investment could decline, which could adversely affect the Fund's performance. By investing in another investment company, Fund shareholders indirectly bear the Fund's proportionate share of the fees and expenses of the other investment company, in addition to the fees and expenses that Fund shareholders directly bear in connection with the Fund's own operations. The Fund does not intend to invest in other investment companies unless the Adviser believes that the potential benefits of the investment justify the payment of any additional fees or expenses. Federal securities laws impose limitations on the Fund's ability to invest in other investment companies.
Because closed-end funds and ETFs are listed on national stock exchanges and are traded like stocks listed on an exchange, their shares potentially may trade at a discount or premium. Investments in closed-end funds and ETFs are also subject to brokerage and other trading costs, which could result in greater expenses to the Fund. In addition, because the value of closed-end funds and ETF shares depends on the demand in the market, the Adviser may not be able to liquidate the Fund's holdings at the most optimal time, which could adversely affect Fund performance.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a collective investment trust that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to June 30, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is July 31, 2006 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2007 7.54% 2008 (24.78)% 2009 XX% |
Best Quarter Worst Quarter XX% (XX)%
(XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX)
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to appropriate broad-based indices. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR (7/31/02) ----------------------------------------------- ------ ---------------------------- FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS AND XX% XX% SALE OF FUND SHARES S&P 500 INDEX (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, XX% XX% EXPENSES, OR TAXES) MSCI ALL COUNTRY WORLD EX-US INDEX (REFLECTS XX% XX% NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) BARCLAYS CAPITAL US AGGREGATE INDEX (REFLECTS XX% XX% NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) BLENDED INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR XX% XX% FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC ("Frost")
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Brad Thompson, CFA, Managing Director, Senior Fund Manager and Director of Research at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Justin Hopkins, Co-Manager and Mutual Fund Analyst and Trader at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
For important information about the purchase and sale of Fund shares and financial intermediary compensation, please turn to "Summary Information about the Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares and Financial Intermediary Compensation" on page XX of the prospectus.
FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to generate a total pre-tax return, including capital growth and dividends, greater than the rate of inflation over a three-to-five year period.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees 0.59% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities. This investment strategy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund invests primarily in common stocks, but may also invest in other types of equity securities, such as preferred stock, convertible securities, warrants or other similar publicly traded securities. The Fund may also purchase American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs").
In selecting securities for the Fund, the Fund's sub-adviser, Kempner Capital Management, Inc., ("KCM") utilizes a deep value style of investing in which it chooses securities that it believes are currently undervalued in the market but have earnings potential or other factors that make them attractive. The securities purchased are frequently out of favor with or have been ignored by the investment community market and thus provide the opportunity to purchase at prices significantly below their true value. KCM analyzes securities on an individual, bottom-up basis, to determine which securities can deliver capital appreciation and steady dividend earnings over the long-term. The Fund may invest in companies of all capitalizations.
KCM selects securities for the Fund's portfolio based on individual stocks rather than on industries or industry groups. KCM screens a universe of approximately 7,500 stocks to find companies which meet most of its criteria for price-earnings ratio (15X), projected 12-month earnings, price/cash flow multiple, price/book multiple and price less than or equal to 20% above the 52-week low. A dividend yield is required. KCM considers it unrealistic for it to be able to purchase a stock at its bottom, and as a result, KCM purchases securities for the Fund's portfolio gradually, averaging down. KCM also considers it unrealistic for it to be able to sell a stock at its highest price level, and as a result, KCM seeks to lock in reasonable returns when they are offered and generally sells gradually as an issue rises.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over the counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a
country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
INVESTMENT STYLE RISK -- The Fund pursues a "value style" of investing. Value investing focuses on companies with stocks that appear undervalued in light of factors such as the company's earnings, book value, revenues or cash flow. If the Adviser's assessment of a company's value or prospects for exceeding earnings expectations or market conditions is wrong, the Fund could suffer losses or produce poor performance relative to other funds. In addition, "value stocks" can continue to be undervalued by the market for long periods of time.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank and sub-advised by KCM (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is July 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 25.77% 2004 14.26% 2005 1.17% 2006 15.53% 2007 (2.92)% 2008 (34.02)% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the S&P 500/Citigroup Value Index and the Lipper Multi-Cap Value Funds Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (7/31/02) ============================================== ====== ======= ============================ FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES S&P 500/CITIGROUP VALUE INDEX RETURN XX% XX% XX% (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) LIPPER MULTI-CAP VALUE FUNDS INDEX XX% XX% XX% RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
Investment Adviser
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC serves as investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Kempner Capital Management, Inc. serves as investment sub-adviser to the Fund ("Kempner").
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Harris L. Kempner, Jr., President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
R. Patrick Rowles, Executive Vice President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
M. Shawn Gault, Vice President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Small Cap Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to maximize total return.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of small-capitalization companies. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders.
The Fund uses a multi-manager approach, relying upon two sub-advisers, Cambiar Investors, LLC ("Cambiar") and Artio Global Management LLC ("Artio Global"), with differing investment philosophies to manage portions of the Fund's portfolio under the general supervision of the Fund's adviser, Frost Investment Advisors, LLC. The Fund intends to invest in companies that Cambiar and Artio Global believe are undervalued, profitable, and capable of generating significant cash flow. In managing the Fund, Cambiar will select and manage its portion of the Fund's portfolio with a bias toward value-oriented small-cap stocks while Artio Global will select and manage its portion of the Fund's portfolio with a bias toward growth-oriented small-cap stocks. Growth-oriented managers generally select stocks they believe have attractive growth and appreciation potential in light of such characteristics as revenue and earnings growth, expectations from sell side analysts, and relative valuation, while value-oriented managers generally select stocks they believe are attractively valued in light of fundamental characteristics such as earnings, capital structure and/or return on invested capital.
In selecting investments for the Fund, Cambiar utilizes a bottom-up, research-focused investment philosophy that seeks to identify quality companies that are currently undervalued to their historical trading range, yet demonstrate catalysts not yet recognized by the market that could result in significant appreciation over a 1-2 year time horizon. While Cambiar may use various metrics in selecting securities for the Fund, a company must possess the following characteristics: attractive valuation, an identifiable performance catalyst(s) and material upside potential. In selecting investments for the Fund, Cambiar generally considers small-capitalization companies to be those companies with total market capitalizations less than $3 billion at the time of initial purchase. In implementing its sell discipline, Cambiar sells stocks once a stock reaches its price target, when there is a decline in fundamentals, or the anticipated catalyst at purchase fails to materialize. Stocks may also be sold in favor of a more attractive investment opportunity. Cambiar will also trim a holding if it becomes an outsized position within the Fund's portfolio.
In selecting investments for the Fund, Artio Global will focus on companies that generally possess the following attributes:
o companies with economic earnings or free cash flow generation;
o companies with the capability to self fund and to avoid raising
additional capital;
o companies that provide products or services that change the behavior
of the consumer or capital spender;
o companies that provide products or services that have an opportunity
to gain market share or carve out a niche in the market; and
o companies with high gross margins and/or operating leverage with the
potential for providing operating margin improvement.
Generally, Artio Global will select securities of companies whose market capitalization at the time of purchase falls (i) within the market capitalization range of companies within the Russell 2000 Index or (ii) within the range of the three year average minimum and maximum market capitalizations of companies in the Russell 2000 Index as of December 31 of the three preceding years. As of December 31, 2009, the capitalization range of the Russell 2000 Index was $10.28 million to $5.59 billion and the three year average market capitalization range of the Russell 2000 Index was $6.51 million to $5.76 billion.
Artio Global may sell securities included in the Fund's portfolio if a stock reaches its target price; relative investment opportunities exist; a company's fundamentals deteriorate; and/or if there is a distortion of a company's weighted average market capitalization.
The Fund may engage in active and frequent trading of portfolio securities to achieve its investment objective.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS ("IPO") RISK -- The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities of companies offering shares in IPOs. IPOs may have a magnified performance impact on a Fund with a small asset base. The impact of IPOs on the Fund's performance likely will decrease as the Fund's asset size increases, which could reduce the Fund's total returns. IPOs may not be consistently available to the Fund for investing. Because IPO shares frequently are volatile in price, the Fund may hold IPO shares for a very short period of time. This may increase the turnover of the Fund's portfolio and may lead to increased expenses for the Fund, such as commissions and transaction costs. By selling IPO shares, the Fund may realize taxable gains it will subsequently distribute to shareholders. In addition, the market for IPO shares can be speculative and/or inactive for extended periods of time. The limited number of shares available for trading in some IPOs may make it more difficult for the Fund to buy or sell significant amounts of shares without an unfavorable impact on prevailing prices. Holders of IPO shares can be affected by substantial dilution in the value of their shares, by sales of additional shares and by concentration of control in existing management and principal shareholders.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over the counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's
investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
ACTIVE TRADING RISK -- The Fund may engage in active and frequent trading of portfolio securities to achieve its investment objective. Active trading may cause the Fund to incur increased costs, which can lower the actual return of the Fund. Active trading may also increase short-term gains and losses, which affect taxes that must be paid.
LIQUIDITY RISK -- Particular investments may be difficult to purchase or sell. The Fund may make investments that become less liquid in response to market developments or adverse investor perceptions, which may reduce the returns of the Fund because it may be unable to sell the illiquid securities at an advantageous time or price.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
Prior to February 1, 2010, the Fund employed a different investment strategy and, prior to June 29, 2010, the Fund was managed by a different sub-adviser. Therefore, the past performance shown below may have differed had the Fund's current investment strategy been in effect and had the current sub-advisers been managing the Fund. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 33.10% 2004 20.64% 2005 8.35% 2006 9.25% 2007 8.08% 2008 (39.60)% 2009 XX% |
BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Russell 2000 Index and the Russell 2500 Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) =========================================== ====== ======= ============================ FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS(3) XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES(3) RUSSELL 2000 INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES)(1) RUSSELL 2500 INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES)(1) |
1 The Fund has changed its primary benchmark from the Russell 2500 Index to the Russell 2000 Index because the Adviser and the Sub-Advisers believe the Russell 2000 Index is more representative of the type of securities in which the Fund invests.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC serves as investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Cambiar Investors LLC ("Cambiar") and Artio Global Management LLC ("Artio Global") serve as sub-advisers to the Fund.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Mr. Samuel A. Dedio, Senior Portfolio Manager and First Vice President at Artio Global, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Brian M. Barish, CFA, President, Director of Research at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Ania A. Aldrich, CFA, Senior Investment Analyst at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Andrew P. Baumbusch, Senior Investment Analyst at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Timothy A. Beranek, Senior Investment Analyst at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Maria L. Mendelsberg, CFA, Senior Investment Analyst at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
Jennifer M. Dunne, CFA, Principal and International Portfolio Manager at Cambiar, has served on the portfolio team of the Fund since 2010.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
For important information about the purchase and sale of Fund shares and financial intermediary compensation, please turn to "Summary Information about the Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares and Financial Intermediary Compensation" on page XX of the prospectus.
FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost International Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to achieve long-term capital appreciation and current income.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if shares redeemed have 2.00% been held for less than 30 days) |
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of non-U.S. issuers. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund invests primarily in common stocks, but may also invest in other types of equity securities, such as preferred stock, convertible securities, warrants or other similar publicly traded securities. The Fund may also purchase American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs").
The Fund's investments are ordinarily diversified among regions, countries and currencies, as determined by its sub-adviser, Thornburg Investment Management Inc. ("Thornburg"). Thornburg intends to invest on an opportunistic basis when it believes there is intrinsic value. The Fund's principal focus will be on traditional or "basic" value stocks. However, the portfolio may include stocks that, in Thornburg's opinion, provide value in a broader or different context. The relative proportions of these different types of securities will vary over time. The Fund ordinarily invests in stocks that may be undervalued or reflect unfavorable market perceptions of company or industry fundamentals. The Fund may invest in companies of any size.
Debt securities will be considered for investment when Thornburg believes them to be more attractive than equity alternatives. The Fund may purchase debt securities of any maturity and quality. The Fund evaluates currency risk on a stock-by-stock basis. The Fund will hedge currency exposure utilizing forward contracts if deemed appropriate by the portfolio management team. Currency hedging, if utilized, is to protect the investment thesis for a given stock from being significantly undermined by dollar/foreign currency fluctuations when we perceive currency risk to be high.
Thornburg primarily uses individual company and industry analysis to make investment decisions. Value, for purposes of Thornburg's selection criteria, relates to both current and projected measures. Among the specific factors considered by Thornburg in identifying undervalued securities for inclusion in the Fund's portfolio are:
o price/earnings ratio
o price/book value
o price/cash flow ratio
o debt/capital ratio
o dividend yield
o security and consistency of revenue stream
o undervalued assets
o relative earnings growth potential
o industry growth potential
o industry leadership
o dividend growth potential
o franchise value
o potential for favorable developments
The Fund typically makes equity investments in the following three types of companies:
o BASIC VALUE companies which, in Thornburg's opinion, are financially sound companies with well established businesses whose stock is selling at low valuations relative to the companies' net assets or potential earning power.
o CONSISTENT EARNER companies when they are selling at valuations below historic norms. Stocks in this category sometimes sell at premium valuations and sometimes at discount valuations. Generally, they show steady earnings and dividend growth.
o EMERGING FRANCHISES are value-priced companies that in Thornburg's opinion are in the process of establishing a leading position in a product, service or market and which Thornburg expects will grow, or continue to grow, at an above average rate. Under normal conditions, the proportion of the Fund invested in companies of this type will be less than the proportions of the Fund invested in basic value or consistent earner companies.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
When the Fund invests in foreign fixed income securities, it will be subject to risks not typically associated with domestic securities. Foreign investments, especially investments in emerging markets, can
be riskier and more volatile than investments in the United States. Adverse political and economic developments or changes in the value of foreign currency can make it more difficult for the Fund to sell its securities and could reduce the value of your shares. Differences in tax and accounting standards and difficulties in obtaining information about foreign companies can negatively affect investment decisions. Unlike more established markets, emerging markets may have governments that are less stable, markets that are less liquid and economies that are less developed.
EMERGING MARKET SECURITIES RISK -- Investments in emerging markets securities are considered speculative and subject to heightened risks in addition to the general risks of investing in non-U.S. securities. Unlike more established markets, emerging markets may have governments that are less stable, markets that are less liquid and economies that are less developed. In addition, emerging markets securities may be subject to smaller market capitalization of securities markets, which may suffer periods of relative illiquidity; significant price volatility; restrictions on foreign investment; and possible restrictions on repatriation of investment income and capital. Furthermore, foreign investors may be required to register the proceeds of sales, and future economic or political crises could lead to price controls, forced mergers, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, seizure, nationalization or creation of government monopolies.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK -- Because non-U.S. securities are usually denominated in currencies other than the dollar, the value of the Fund's portfolio may be influenced by currency exchange rates and exchange control regulations. The currencies of emerging market countries may experience significant declines against the U.S. dollar, and devaluation may occur subsequent to investments in these currencies by the Fund. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation rates have had, and may continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging market countries.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate. Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources.
As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
INVESTMENT STYLE RISK -- The Fund pursues a "value style" of investing. Value investing focuses on companies with stocks that appear undervalued in light of factors such as the company's earnings, book value, revenues or cash flow. If Thornburg's assessment of a company's value or prospects for exceeding earnings expectations or market conditions is wrong, the Fund could suffer losses or produce poor performance relative to other funds. In addition, "value stocks" can continue to be undervalued by the market for long periods of time.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of
a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank and sub-advised
by Thornburg and INVESCO Global Asset Management N.A. (the "Predecessor Fund").
The performance information provided includes returns of the Predecessor Fund
for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses
for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was
not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax
restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance
may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior
to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's
performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is
May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 29.94% 2004 20.43% 2005 17.11% 2006 25.41% 2007 27.40% |
2008 ( 41.42)% 2009 XX%
Best Quarter Worst Quarter XX% (XX)%
(XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX)
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Morgan Stanley Capital International All Country World ex-US Index ("MSCI ACWI ex-US Index") and the Morgan Stanley Capital International Europe, Australasia, Far East Index (" MSCI EAFE Index"). After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) ========================================== ====== ======= ============================ FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES MSCI ACWI EX-US INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS XX% XX% XX% NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) MSCI EAFE INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisers LLC serves as investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Thornburg Investment Management, Inc. serves as investment sub-adviser to the Fund ("Thornburg").
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
William Fries, CFA, Co-Portfolio Manager and Managing Director at Thornburg, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Lei Wang, CFA, Co-Portfolio Manager and Managing Director at Thornburg, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Wendy Trevisani, Co-Portfolio Manager and Managing Director at Thornburg, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST LOW DURATION BOND FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Low Duration Bond Fund (the "Fund") seeks to maximize total return, consisting of income and capital appreciation, consistent with the preservation of principal.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees 0.50% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in fixed income securities. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund's emphasis is on total return with low volatility by investing primarily in shorter-term investment grade securities. Short-term bonds are considered more stable than longer-maturity bonds, but less stable than money market securities.
To achieve its objective, the Fund invests in a diversified mix of taxable fixed income securities. The Adviser actively manages the maturity of the Fund and purchases securities which will, on average, mature in less than 5 years. The Adviser actively manages the duration of the Fund and purchases securities such that the average weighted duration of the Fund's portfolio will typically range within plus or minus one year of the Barclays Capital U.S. 1-5 Year Government Credit Index duration. The Fund seeks to maintain a low duration but may lengthen or shorten its duration within that range to reflect changes in the overall composition of the short-term investment-grade debt markets. Duration is a measure of a bond price's sensitivity to a given change in interest rates. Generally, the longer a bond's duration, the greater its price sensitivity to a change in interest rates. For example, the price of a bond with a duration of three years would be expected to fall approximately 3% if rates were to rise by one percentage point. The Adviser, in constructing and maintaining the Fund's portfolio, employs the following four primary strategies to varying degrees depending on its views of economic growth prospects, interest rate predictions and relative value assessments: interest rate positioning based on duration and yield curve position; asset category allocations; credit sector allocations relating to security ratings by the national ratings agencies; and individual security selection.
The Fund typically invests in the following U.S. dollar-denominated fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury securities; governmental agency debt; corporate debt; asset-backed securities; taxable municipal bonds; and, to a lesser extent, residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities. The Fund's fixed income investments are primarily of investment grade (rated in one of the four highest rating categories by at least one rating agency), but may at times include securities rated below investment grade (high yield or "junk" bonds). In addition, the Fund's fixed income securities may include unrated securities, if deemed by the Adviser to be of comparable quality to investment grade.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
MUNICIPAL ISSUERS RISK -- There may be economic or political changes that impact the ability of municipal issuers to repay principal and to make interest payments on municipal securities. Changes in the financial condition or credit rating of municipal issuers also may adversely affect the value of the Fund's municipal securities. Constitutional or legislative limits on borrowing by municipal issuers may result in reduced supplies of municipal securities. Moreover, certain municipal securities are backed only by a municipal issuer's ability to levy and collect taxes.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are usually the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures
price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of three years means the price of a debt security will change about 3% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate.
Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 1.81% 2004 0.20% 2005 0.48% 2006 3.20% 2007 6.12% 2008 1.36% 2009 XX% |
Best Quarter Worst Quarter XX% (XX)%
(XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX)
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Barclays Capital U.S. 1-5 Year Government/Credit Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) ========================== ====== ======= ============================ FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON XX% XX% XX% DISTRIBUTIONS FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON XX% XX% XX% DISTRIBUTIONS AND SALE OF FUND SHARES |
BARCLAYS CAPITAL U.S. 1-5 YEAR XX% XX% XX%
GOVERNMENT/CREDIT INDEX RETURN
(REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES,
OR TAXES)
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC ("Frost")
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Jeffery Elswick, Senior Fund Manager and Director of Fixed Income at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Total Return Bond Fund (the "Fund") seeks to maximize total return, consisting of income and capital appreciation, consistent with the preservation of principal.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Institutional Class Shares --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees 0.50% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in fixed income securities. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders.
The Adviser actively manages the duration of the Fund and purchases securities such that the average weighted duration of the Fund's portfolio will typically range within plus or minus three years of the Fund benchmark's duration. The Adviser, in constructing and maintaining the Fund's portfolio, employs the following four primary strategies to varying degrees depending on its views of economic growth prospects, interest rate predictions and relative value assessments: interest rate positioning based on duration and yield curve positioning; asset category allocations; credit sector allocations relating to security ratings by the national ratings agencies; and individual security selection. The "total return" sought by the Fund consists of income earned on the Fund's investments, plus capital appreciation, if any, which generally arises from decreases in interest rates or improving credit fundamentals for a particular sector or security.
The Fund typically invests in the following U.S. dollar-denominated fixed income securities: U.S. Treasury securities; governmental agency debt; corporate debt; asset-backed securities; taxable municipal bonds; collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMO's") and residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities. The Fund's fixed income investments focus primarily on investment grade securities (rated in one of the four highest rating categories by a rating agency), but may at times include securities rated below investment grade (high yield or "junk" bonds). In addition, the Fund's fixed income securities may include unrated securities, if deemed by the Adviser to be of comparable quality to investment grade.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are usually the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of five years means the price of a debt security will change about 5% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate.
Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 2.70% 2004 2.86% 2005 2.48% 2006 3.65% 2007 5.61% 2008 (1.73)% 2009 XX% |
Best Quarter Worst Quarter XX% (XX)%
(XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX)
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) =========================================== ====== ======= ============================ FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES BARCLAYS CAPITAL U.S. AGGREGATE INDEX XX% XX% XX% RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC ("Frost")
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Jeffery Elswick, Senior Fund Manager and Director of Fixed Income at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Municipal Bond Fund (the "Fund") seeks to provide a consistent level of current income exempt from federal income tax with a secondary emphasis on maximizing total return through capital appreciation.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES ------------------------------------ -------------------------- Management Fees 0.50% ------------------------------------ -------------------------- Other Expenses XX% ------------------------------------ -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses XX% ------------------------------------ -------------------------- |
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in municipal securities that generate income exempt from federal income tax, but not necessarily the federal alternative minimum tax ("AMT"). These securities include securities of municipal issuers located in Texas as well as in other states, territories and possessions of the United States. This investment policy may not be changed
without shareholder approval. The Fund may invest more than 25% of its total assets in bonds of issuers in Texas.
The Adviser considers the relative yield, maturity and availability of various types of municipal bonds and the general economic outlook in determining whether to over- or under-weight a specific type of municipal bond in the Fund's portfolio. Duration adjustments are made relative to the Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index. The Adviser, in constructing and maintaining the Fund's portfolio, employs the following four primary strategies to varying degrees depending on its views of economic growth prospects, interest rate predictions and relative value assessments: interest rate positioning based on duration and yield curve positioning, with a typical range of three years; asset category allocations; credit sector allocations relating to security ratings by the national ratings agencies; and individual security selection.
Securities will be considered for sale in the event of or in anticipation of a credit downgrade; to effect a change in duration or sector weighting of the Fund; to realize an aberration in a security's valuation; or when the Adviser otherwise deems appropriate.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
MUNICIPAL ISSUERS RISK -- There may be economic or political changes that impact the ability of municipal issuers to repay principal and to make interest payments on municipal securities. Changes in the financial condition or credit rating of municipal issuers also may adversely affect the value of the Fund's municipal securities. Constitutional or legislative limits on borrowing by municipal issuers may result in reduced supplies of municipal securities. Moreover, certain municipal securities are backed only by a municipal issuer's ability to levy and collect taxes.
STATE-SPECIFIC RISK -- The Fund is subject to the risk that the economy of the states in which it invests, and the revenues underlying state municipal bonds, may decline. Investing primarily in a single state means that the Fund is more exposed to negative political or economic factors in that state than a fund that invests more widely.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are usually the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of five years means the price of a debt security will change about 5% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity
date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate.
Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund
commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is May 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 3.32% 2004 1.68% 2005 0.81% 2006 2.74% 2007 3.58% 2008 3.58% 2009 XX% BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER |
XX% (XX)%
(XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX)
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (5/31/02) ======================================== ====== ======= ============================ FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES BARCLAYS CAPITAL MUNICIPAL BOND INDEX XX% XX% XX% RETURN (REFLECTS NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Jeffery Elswick, Senior Fund Manager and Director of Fixed Income at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund's distributions of interest on municipal obligations generally are not subject to federal income tax; however the Fund may distribute taxable dividends, including distributions of short-term capital gains, and long-term capital gains. In addition, interest on certain obligations may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax. To the extent that the Fund's distributions are derived from interest on obligations that are not exempt from applicable state and local taxes, such distributions will be subject to such state and local taxes.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund (the "Fund") seeks to provide a consistent level of current income exempt from federal income tax with a secondary emphasis on maximizing total return.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees 0.50% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, at the time of initial purchase, in municipal securities that generate income exempt from federal income tax, but not necessarily the federal alternative minimum tax ("AMT"). These securities include securities of municipal issuers located in Texas as well as in other states, territories and possessions of the United States. This investment policy may not be changed without shareholder approval.
The Fund primarily invests in securities that are of investment grade (rated in one of the four highest rating categories). The Fund may invest more than 25% of its total assets in bonds of issuers in Texas. The Adviser actively manages the portfolio, as well as the maturity of the Fund, and purchases securities which will, on average, mature in less than five years. The Fund tends to have an average duration within plus or minus one year of the Barclays Capital Three-Year Municipal Bond Index. The Fund seeks to maintain a low duration, but may lengthen or shorten its duration within its target range to reflect changes in the overall composition of the short-term investment-grade debt markets. Duration is a measure of a bond price's sensitivity to a given change in interest rates. Generally, the longer a bond's duration, the greater its price sensitivity to a change in interest rates. For example, the price of a bond with a duration of three years would be expected to fall approximately 3% if rates were to rise by one percentage point.
The Adviser, in constructing and maintaining the Fund's portfolio, employs the following four primary strategies to varying degrees depending on its views of economic growth prospects, interest rate predictions and relative value assessments: interest rate positioning based on duration and yield curve positioning; asset category allocations; credit sector allocations relating to security ratings by the national ratings agencies; and individual security selection. Securities will be considered for sale in the event of or in anticipation of a credit downgrade; to effect a change in duration or sector weighting of the Fund; to realize an aberration in a security's valuation; or when the Adviser otherwise deems appropriate.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
MUNICIPAL ISSUERS RISK -- There may be economic or political changes that impact the ability of municipal issuers to repay principal and to make interest payments on municipal securities. Changes in the financial condition or credit rating of municipal issuers also may adversely affect the value of the Fund's municipal securities. Constitutional or legislative limits on borrowing by municipal issuers may result in reduced supplies of municipal securities. Moreover, certain municipal securities are backed only by a municipal issuer's ability to levy and collect taxes.
STATE-SPECIFIC RISK -- The Fund is subject to the risk that the economy of the states in which it invests, and the revenues underlying state municipal bonds, may decline. Investing primarily in a single state means that the Fund is more exposed to negative political or economic factors in that state than a fund that invests more widely.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are usually the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of three years means the price of a debt security will change about 3% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate.
Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
High yield, or "junk," bonds are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. Compared with investment-grade bonds, high yield bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business conditions of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's
average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower.
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2005 (0.44)% 2006 1.69% 2007 3.35% 2008 3.55% 2009 XX%
Best Quarter Worst Quarter XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Barclays Capital Three-Year Municipal Bond Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Inception Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE INCEPTION 1 YEAR (8/31/2004) ======================================== ====== =============== FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES BARCLAYS CAPITAL THREE-YEAR MUNICIPAL XX% XX% BOND INDEX |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Jeffery Elswick, Senior Fund Manager and Director of Fixed Income at Frost, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund's distributions of interest on municipal obligations generally are not subject to federal income tax; however the Fund may distribute taxable dividends, including distributions of short-term capital gains, and long-term capital gains. In addition, interest on certain obligations may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax. To the extent that the Fund's distributions are derived from interest on obligations that are not exempt from applicable state and local taxes, such distributions will be subject to such state and local taxes.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund (the "Fund") seeks to provide current income consistent with the preservation of capital.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees 0.35% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(2) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 Other Expenses are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year.
2 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in full faith and credit U.S. Treasury obligations. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. In selecting investments for the Fund, the Fund's sub-adviser, Kempner Capital Management, Inc. ("KCM"), tries to increase income without adding undue risk by analyzing yields. The Fund's investments include Treasury bonds, Treasury notes, Treasury Inflated Protection Securities and short-term U.S. government money market funds. In evaluating a security for the Fund's portfolio, KCM considers, among other factors, the security's interest rate, yield and maturity. KCM actively manages the maturity of the Fund and its portfolio to maximize the Fund's yield based on current market interest rates and KCM's outlook on the market.
The Fund may invest in full faith and credit money market instruments. The percentage of the Fund invested in such holdings varies depending on various factors, including market conditions. Consistent with preservation of capital, a larger percentage of the Fund's net assets may be invested in cash or money market instruments in order to provide capital and reduce the magnitude of loss in a period of falling market prices.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
INTEREST RATE RISK - As with most funds that invest in debt securities, changes in interest rates are one of the most important factors that could affect the value of your investment. Rising interest rates tend to cause the prices of debt securities (especially those with longer maturities) and the Fund's share price to fall. Rising interest rates may also cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities later than anticipated, forcing the Fund to keep its money invested at lower rates. Falling interest rates, however, generally cause investors to pay off mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
The concept of duration is useful in assessing the sensitivity of a fixed income fund to interest rate movements, which are the main source of risk for most fixed-income funds. Duration measures price volatility by estimating the change in price of a debt security for a 1% change in its yield. For example, a duration of five years means the price of a debt security will change about 5% for every 1% change in its yield. Thus, the higher duration, the more volatile the security.
Debt securities have a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the principal amount of the bond. Some debt securities, known as callable bonds, may repay the principal earlier than the stated maturity date. Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate. Mutual funds that invest in debt securities have no real maturity. Instead, they calculate their weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by the mutual fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of its assets of the mutual fund it represents.
CREDIT RISK - The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risk that the issuer will fail to pay interest fully and return principal in a timely manner. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the security may lose some or all of its value. The issuer of an investment-grade
security is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal.
Although the Fund's U.S. government securities are considered to be among the safest investments, they are not guaranteed against price movements due to changing interest rates. Obligations issued by some U.S. government agencies are backed by the U.S. Treasury, while others are backed solely by the ability of the agency to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or by the government sponsored agency's own resources. As a result, investments in securities issued by government sponsored agencies that are not backed by the U.S. Treasury are subject to higher credit risk than those that are.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank and sub-advised by KCM (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is November 30, 2006 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2007 7.73% 2008 2.54% 2009 XX%
BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER
XX% (XX)%
(XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX)
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the Barclays Capital Treasury Bond Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR (11/30/06) ====================================================== ====== ============================ FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS AND SALE OF XX% XX% FUND SHARES BARCLAYS CAPITAL TREASURY BOND INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS XX% XX% NO DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors LLC serves as the investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Kempner Capital Management, Inc. serves as investment sub-adviser to the Fund ("Kempner").
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Harris L. Kempner, Jr., President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
R. Patrick Rowles, Executive Vice President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
M. Shawn Gault, Vice President of Kempner, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to maximize long-term capital appreciation.
fund fees and expenses
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES --- -------------------------------- ----------------------------------------- Management Fees 0.75% ------------------------------------ ----------------------------------------- Other Expenses(1) XX% ------------------------------------ ----------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses XX% ------------------------------------ ----------------------------------------- |
1 Other Expenses are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The equity securities in which the Fund may invest include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, rights and warrants. The Fund may invest in companies of all market capitalizations.
The Fund intends to invest in companies that the Fund's sub-adviser, Luther King Capital Management Corporation ("LKCM"), believes are likely to have above-average growth in revenue, above-average earnings, above-average returns on shareholders' equity, underleveraged balanced sheets and/or the potential for above-average capital appreciation. In selecting investments for the Fund, LKCM performs analyses of financial and fundamental criteria to identify high-quality companies, focusing on the following characteristics:
o Consistently high profitability;
o Strong balance sheets;
o Competitive advantages;
o High and/or improving financial returns;
o Free cash flow;
o Reinvestment opportunities; and
o Prominent market share positions.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day-to-day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over-the-counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through purchasing ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance.
The Fund commenced operations after succeeding to the assets and operations of a common trust fund that was managed by The Frost National Bank and sub-advised by LKCM (the "Predecessor Fund"). The performance information provided includes the returns of the Predecessor Fund for periods prior to April 25, 2008 and has been adjusted to reflect expenses for Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. Because the Predecessor Fund was not a registered mutual fund, it was not subject to the same investment and tax restrictions as the Fund; if it had been, the Predecessor Fund's performance may have been lower. Although the Predecessor Fund commenced operations prior to the periods shown, the earliest date for which the Predecessor Fund's performance can be calculated applying the relevant performance standards is July 31, 2002 ("Performance Start Date").
Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2003 23.35% 2004 3.93% 2005 3.36% 2006 10.84% 2007 6.94% 2008 (34.88)% 2009 XX% |
Best Quarter Worst Quarter XX% (XX)%
(XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX)
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
This table compares the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for the periods ended December 31, 2009 to those of the S&P 500 Index. After-tax returns cannot be calculated for periods before the Fund's registration as a mutual fund and they are, therefore, unavailable for the period since the Performance Start Date.
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE PERFORMANCE START DATE 1 YEAR 5 YEARS (7/31/02) ======================================== ====== ======= ============================ FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES S&P 500 INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisers LLC serves as investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Luther King Capital Management Corporation serves as investment sub-adviser to the Fund ("LKCM").
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
J. Luther King, Jr., President of LKCM, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Paul W. Greenwell, Principal at LKCM, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
For important information about the purchase and sale of Fund shares and financial intermediary compensation, please turn to "Summary Information about the Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares and Financial Intermediary Compensation" on page XX of the prospectus.
FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund (the "Fund") seeks to maximize long-term capital appreciation.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Management Fees 0.90% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Other Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(2) XX% --------------------------------------- -------------------------- |
1 Other Expenses are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year. 2 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------------------------ ------- ------- -------- $XX $XX $XX $XX ------------------------ ------- ------- -------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of small- and mid-capitalization companies. This investment policy may be changed by the Fund upon 60 days' prior notice to shareholders. The Fund considers small- and mid-capitalization companies to be those companies with total market capitalizations between $1 billion and $7 billion at the time of initial purchase. The equity securities in which the Fund may invest include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, rights and warrants.
The Fund intends to invest in companies that the Fund's sub-adviser, Luther King Capital Management Corporation ("LKCM"), believes are likely to have above-average growth in revenue, above-average earnings and/or the potential for above-average capital appreciation. In selecting investments for the Fund, LKCM performs analyses of financial and fundamental criteria to identify high-quality companies, focusing on the following characteristics:
o Consistently high profitability;
o Strong balance sheets;
o Competitive advantages;
o High and/or improving financial returns;
o Free cash flow;
o Reinvestment opportunities; and
o Prominent market share positions.
The Fund does not sell stocks simply because they are no longer within LKCM's capitalization range used for the initial purchase.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IT IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
SMALL- AND MID-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small- and mid-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and mid-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-capitalization stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over-the-counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a
country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available on the Fund's website at www.frostbank.com or by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
2009 XX%
Best Quarter Worst Quarter XX% (XX)%
(XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX)
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's performance for Institutional Class Shares from 1/1/10 to 9/30/10 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns will depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
1 YEAR SINCE INCEPTION (4/25/08)) =============================================== ====== ========================= FUND RETURN BEFORE TAXES XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% FUND RETURN AFTER TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS XX% XX% AND SALE OF FUND SHARES S&P 500 INDEX RETURN (REFLECTS NO XX% XX% DEDUCTION FOR FEES, EXPENSES, OR TAXES) |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisers LLC serves as investment adviser to the Fund ("Frost"). Luther King Capital Management Corporation serves as investment sub-adviser to the Fund ("LKCM").
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
J. Luther King, Jr., President of LKCM, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Steven R. Purvis, Principal at LKCM, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
Paul W. Greenwell, Principal at LKCM, has served on the portfolio team for the Fund since its inception.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION, PLEASE TURN TO "SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION" ON PAGE XX OF THE PROSPECTUS.
SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES AND FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY COMPENSATION
PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES
To purchase shares of a Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $1,000,000 for Institutional Class Shares. Each Fund reserves the right to waive the minimum initial investment amount in its sole discretion.
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business (a "Business Day") by contacting the Funds directly by mail at: Frost Funds, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: DST Systems, Inc., c/o Frost Funds, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105) or telephone at 1-877-71-FROST.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares.
TAX INFORMATION
The Funds intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
If you purchase shares of the Funds through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), each Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary's web site for more information.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK
Investing in the Funds involves risk and there is no guarantee that any Fund will achieve its goals. The judgments of the Funds' investment managers about the markets, the economy, or companies may not anticipate actual market movements, economic conditions or company performance, and these judgments may affect the return on your investment. In fact, no matter how good a job a Fund's investment managers do, you could lose money on your investment in a Fund, just as you could with similar investments.
The value of your investment in a Fund is based on the value of the securities the Fund holds. These prices change daily due to economic and other events that affect particular companies and other issuers. These price movements, sometimes called volatility, may be greater or lesser depending on the types of securities the Fund owns and the markets in which it trades. The effect on a Fund of a change in the value of a single security will depend on how widely the Fund diversifies its holdings.
EQUITY RISK -- Equity securities in which the Funds invest include public and privately issued equity securities, common and preferred stocks, warrants, shares of ADRs and REITs, as well as shares of ETFs that attempt to track the price movement of equity indices, and rights to subscribe to common stock and convertible securities. Common stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. Preferred stock provides a fixed dividend that is paid before any dividends are paid to common stock holders, and which takes precedence over common stock in the event of a liquidation. Like common stock, preferred stocks represent partial ownership in a company, although preferred stock shareholders do not enjoy any of the voting rights of common stockholders. Also, unlike common stock, a preferred stock pays a fixed dividend that does not fluctuate, although the company does not have to pay this dividend if it lacks the financial ability to do so. Investments in equity securities in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. The value of such securities convertible into equity securities, such as warrants or convertible debt, is also affected by prevailing interest rates, the credit quality of the issuer and any call provision. Fluctuations in the value of equity securities in which a mutual fund invests will cause the fund's net asset value to fluctuate. An investment in a portfolio of equity securities may be more suitable for long-term investors who can bear the risk of these share price fluctuations.
FIXED INCOME RISK -- The market value of the Funds' fixed income investments change in response to interest rate changes and other factors. During periods of falling interest rates, the values of outstanding fixed income securities generally rise. Moreover, while securities with longer maturities tend to produce higher yields, the prices of longer maturity securities are also subject to greater market fluctuations as a result of changes in interest rates. During periods of falling interest rates, certain debt obligations with high interest rates may be prepaid (or "called") by the issuer prior to maturity. In addition to these risks, fixed income securities may be subject to credit risk, which is the possibility that an issuer will be unable or unwilling to make timely payments of either principal or interest.
FOREIGN SECURITY RISK -- The Funds' investments in securities of foreign companies (including direct investments as well as investments through ADRs) can be more volatile than investments in U.S. companies. Diplomatic, political, or economic developments, including nationalization or appropriation, could affect investments in foreign companies. Foreign securities markets generally have less trading volume and less liquidity than U.S. markets. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies, and of dividends from such securities, can change significantly when foreign currencies strengthen or weaken relative to the U.S. dollar. Foreign companies or governments generally are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to domestic U.S. companies or governments. Transaction costs are generally higher than those in the
United States and expenses for custodial arrangements of foreign securities may be somewhat greater than typical expenses for custodial arrangements of similar U.S. securities. Some foreign governments levy withholding taxes against dividend and interest income. Although in some countries a portion of these taxes are recoverable, the non-recovered portion will reduce the income received from the securities comprising the portfolio.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS
Each Fund's investment objective may be changed without shareholder approval.
The investments and strategies described in this prospectus are those that each Fund uses under normal conditions. During unusual economic or market conditions, or for temporary defensive or liquidity purposes, each Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in money market instruments or other cash equivalents that would not ordinarily be consistent with its investment objectives. If a Fund invests in this manner, it may not achieve its investment objective. The Funds will do so only if the Funds' investment managers believe that the risk of loss outweighs the opportunity for a Fund to achieve its investment objective.
This prospectus describes the Funds' principal investment strategies, and the Funds will normally invest in the types of investments described in this prospectus. In addition to the securities and other investments and strategies described in this prospectus, the Funds also may invest, to a lesser extent, in other securities, use other strategies and engage in other investment practices that are not part of their principal investment strategies. These investments and strategies are described in detail in the Funds' Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") (for information on how to obtain a copy of the SAI, see the back cover of this prospectus). Of course, there is no guarantee that the Funds will achieve their investment goals.
INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
A description of the Funds' policy and procedures with respect to the circumstances under which the Funds disclose their portfolio holdings is available in the SAI.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC, a Delaware limited liability corporation formed in 2007, serves as the investment adviser to the Funds. The Adviser is a wholly owned non-banking subsidiary of The Frost National Bank. The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 100 West Houston Street, 15th Floor Tower, San Antonio, Texas, 78205. The Adviser manages and supervises the investment of the Funds' assets on a discretionary basis. As of September 30, 2010, the Adviser had approximately $XX billion in assets under management.
The Adviser oversees the sub-advisers to the Frost International Equity Fund, the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund, the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund, the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Fund (each, a "Sub-Adviser" and collectively, the "Sub-Advisers") to ensure their compliance with the investment policies and guidelines of these Funds, and monitors each Sub-Adviser's adherence to its investment style. The Adviser pays the Sub-Advisers out of the advisory fee it receives from the Funds. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the "Board") supervises the Adviser and the Sub-Advisers and establishes policies that the Adviser and Sub-Advisers must follow in their management activities.
For its services, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at the following annual rates based on the average daily net assets of each Fund. For its services under the Sub-Advisory Agreements, each Sub-Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, by the Adviser. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its investment advisory fees for certain Funds as set forth below ("Voluntary Fee Reduction"). In addition, the Adviser has voluntarily agreed to further reduce its fees and/or reimburse expenses in order to keep total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, acquired fund fees and expenses and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding certain levels as set forth below ("Expense Limitation"). The Adviser intends to continue these expense limitations until further notice, but may discontinue all or part of these fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual Fund operating expenses and the Expense Limitation set forth below to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expense reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period during which the agreement was in place. The Adviser, however, will not be permitted to recapture the amount of any difference that is attributable to the Voluntary Fee Reduction. The table below shows the rate of each Fund's investment advisory fee before the Adviser's Voluntary Fee Reduction, the rate of the Adviser's Voluntary Fee Reduction, the investment advisory fee after the Voluntary Fee Reduction and the Adviser's voluntary Expense Limitation for each Fund, and the amount of advisory fees paid to the Adviser as a percentage of daily net assets for the fiscal year ending July 31, 2010.
Fund Advisory Fee Adviser's Advisory Fee Expense Advisory Before Voluntary After Limitation Fees Paid Voluntary Fee Voluntary Fee Reduction Fee Reduction Reduction -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost Core Growth Equity Fund 0.80% 0.15% 0.65% 1.25% XX% -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund 0.80% 0.15% 0.65% 1.25% XX% -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost Strategic Balanced Fund 0.70% 0.05% 0.65% 1.35% XX% -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep 0.59% None 0.59% 1.05% XX% Value Equity Fund -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost Small Cap Equity 1.00% for None 1.00% for 1.55% XX% assets up to assets up to $100 million $100 million 0.85% for 0.85% for assets over assets over $100 million $100 million -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost International Equity Fund 0.95% for None 0.95% for 1.45% XX% assets up to assets up to $150 million $150 million 0.90% for 0.90% for assets over assets over $150 million $150 million -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost Low Duration Bond Fund 0.50% 0.15%(1) 0.35% 0.95% XX% -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost Total Return Bond Fund 0.50% 0.15%(2) 0.35% 0.95% XX% -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost Municipal Bond Fund 0.50% 0.10% 0.40% 1.05% XX% -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund 0.50% 0.20% 0.30% 1.15% XX% -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund 0.35% None 0.35% 1.05% XX% -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund 0.75% None 0.75% 1.35% XX% -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund 0.90% None 0.90% 1.55% XX% -------------------------------------- ------------ --------- ------------ ---------- --------- |
1 Prior to November 30, 2009, the Adviser voluntarily agreed to reduce its Investment Advisory Fee for the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund by 0.20%
2 Prior to November 30, 2009, the Adviser voluntarily agreed to reduce its Investment Advisory Fee for the Frost Total Return Bond Fund by 0.10%.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
John Lutz, CFA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund. Mr. Lutz joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 1995 and has over 9 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor's degree in business administration from Texas A&M University and a master's degree in business administration from Our Lady of the Lake University.
Alan Tarver, CFA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund. Mr. Tarver joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2002 and has over 14 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor of arts degree in economics from the University of Texas at Austin, a master's of international management from Thunderbird and a master's of business administration in finance from Arizona State University.
Steve Coker is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund. Mr. Coker joined Frost Investment Advisors in 2008 and has over 13 years of experience in investment management. Prior to joining Frost, he worked for the Principal Financial Group in Seattle and Trusco Capital Management in Atlanta. He earned a bachelor's degree in Management from Georgia Tech and an MBA in Finance from Indiana University. Mr. Coker is a holder of the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA[R]) designation and is a member of the CFA Institute.
C. Murray Fichtner is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund. Mr. Fichtner joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 1967 and has over 24 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor's of business administration degree from Texas A&M University.
Michael R. Brell, CFA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund. Mr. Brell joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2002 and has over 17 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor's of arts degree with honors in international relations and a master's degree in business administration from St. Mary's University.
Ted Harper is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund. Mr. Harper joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2000 and has over 12 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor's degree in political science and economics from the University of Arizona.
Tom L. Stringfellow, CFA, CFP, CPA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund, the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund, the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, the Frost Total Return Bond Fund, the Frost Municipal Bond Fund, the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund and the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund. Mr. Stringfellow joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 1980 and has over 29 years of investment experience. He received a bachelor's of arts degree in business administration from Southwest Texas State University and a master's degree in economics from St. Mary's University, and also a master's degree in business administration from Texas A&M University.
Jeffery Elswick is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, the Frost Total Return Bond Fund, the Frost Municipal Bond Fund, the Frost Low
Duration Municipal Bond Fund, and the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund. Mr. Elswick joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2006 and has over 15 years of investment experience. Prior to joining The Frost National Bank, Mr. Elswick served as a fixed income portfolio manager, analyst and trader at Capital One Financial Corporation from 2000 to 2006. He received a master of science in finance degree and a bachelor's of business administration degree from Texas A&M University.
Brad Thompson, CFA is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund, the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund, and the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund. Mr. Thompson joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2002 and has over 18 years of investment experience. Prior to joining The Frost National Bank, Mr. Thompson was a senior analyst with Assante Asset Management in Canada and Assante Global Advisors in Los Angeles. He received the degrees of master of commerce with honours (finance), from the University of Melbourne; bachelor of commerce with honours (finance), and bachelor of commerce and economics from the University of Tasmania at Hobart, Australia. Mr. Thompson is a holder of the right to use the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA[R]) designation and is a member of the CFA Institute.
Justin Hopkins is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund. Mr. Hopkins joined The Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, in 2007 and has over 5 years of investment experience. Prior to joining The Frost National Bank, Mr. Hopkins served as a representative support specialist at National Financial Partners from 2006 to 2007 and as a mutual fund analyst, intern, part-time at The Frost National Bank from 2004 to 2006 and full time student from 2002 to 2006. He received a bachelor's degree in applied arts and sciences and a master's degree in business administration from Texas State University.
SUB-ADVISERS
The Sub-Advisers for the Frost International Equity Fund, the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund, the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund, the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, the Frost Luther LKCM Equity Fund and the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund are responsible for the day-to-day management of these Funds, subject to the general supervision of the Board and the Adviser and in accordance with the investment objectives, policies and restrictions of the Funds.
o Frost International Equity Fund
Thornburg Investment Management, Inc., a Delaware corporation established in 1982, serves as the sub-adviser to the Frost International Equity Fund. Thornburg's principal place of business is located at 2300 North Ridgetop Road, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87506. As of September 30, 2010, Thornburg had approximately $XX billion in assets under management. Thornburg is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost International Equity Fund's investments.
William Fries, CFA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost International Equity Fund. Mr. Fries joined Thornburg in 1995 and has over 41 years of investment experience. He received a BS from the Pennsylvania State University and an MBA from Temple University.
Lei Wang, CFA, is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost International Equity Fund. Mr. Wang joined Thornburg in 2004 and has over 11 years of investment experience. Prior to joining Thornburg, Mr. Wang served as an associate at Enso Capital from 2002 to
2004 and as an associate at Deutsche Bank Alex Brown Inc. from 2001 to 2002. He received an BA/MA from East China Normal University and an MBA from New York University.
Wendy Trevisani is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost International Equity Fund. Ms. Trevisani joined Thornburg in 1999 and has over 15 years of investment experience. She received a BA from Bucknell University and an MBA from Columbia University.
o Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund
Kempner Capital Management, Inc., a Texas corporation established in 1982, serves as the sub-adviser to the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund. KCM's principal place of business is located at 2201 Market Street, 12th Floor, FNB Building Galveston, Texas 77550-1503. As of September 30, 2010, KCM had approximately $XX million in assets under management. KCM is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund's and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund's investments.
Harris L. Kempner, Jr. is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund. Mr. Kempner has been KCM's President since the firm's inception in 1982. He was President of U.S. National Bancshares and Chief Investment Officer for Frost Bank of Galveston (formerly United States National Bank) from 1969-1982. He received a BA from Harvard University in 1961 and an MBA from Stanford University in 1963.
R. Patrick Rowles is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund. Mr. Rowles joined KCM as Executive Vice President in 1987. He has over 32 years of experience in the investment banking and investment advisory industry and was President of R. Patrick Rowles & Company from 1981-1987. He received a BBA from the University of Texas at Austin in 1961.
M. Shawn Gault is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund. Mr. Gault is a Vice President and joined KCM in January 2001. He received an MBA from the University of Houston in 2000.
o Frost Small Cap Equity Fund
Cambiar Investors LLC, ("Cambiar"), a Delaware limited liability company located at 2401 East Second Avenue, Suite 500, Denver, Colorado 80206, is an investment adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Cambiar has provided investment management services to corporations, foundations, endowments, pension and profit sharing plans, trusts, estates and other institutions as well as individuals since 1973. As of September 30, 2010, Cambiar managed approximately $XX billion in firmwide assets across four equity strategies including large-cap, small-cap, international equity and global multi-value equity strategies.
Brian M. Barish, CFA, President, Director of Research, joined Cambiar in 1997 and has over 21 years of investment experience. He focuses on the technology, media, aerospace and defense sectors. Prior to joining Cambiar, Mr. Barish served as Director of Emerging Markets Research for Lazard Freres & Co., a New York based investment bank. He has also served as a securities analyst with Bear, Stearns & Co. and Arnhold S. Bleichroeder, a New York based research firm. Mr. Barish received a BA in Economics and
Philosophy from the University of California, Berkeley, and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Ania A. Aldrich, CFA, Principal, joined Cambiar in 1999 and has over 21 years of investment experience. Prior to joining Cambiar, Ms. Aldrich was a global equity analyst at Bankers Trust, a New York based investment company, covering the financial services and transportation sectors. She began her career as a senior investor relations professional at BET PLC, a New York based communications firm. Ms. Aldrich holds an MBA in Finance from Fordham University and a BA in Computer Science from Hunter College. She also holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Andrew P. Baumbusch, Principal, joined Cambiar in 2004 and has over 12 years of investment experience. Prior to joining Cambiar, Mr. Baumbusch served as an investment analyst at Franklin Templeton, Atrium Capital and Alex Brown & Sons. Mr. Baumbusch holds an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and a BA in Economics from Princeton University.
Timothy A. Beranek, Principal, joined Cambiar in 1999 and has over 18 years of investment experience. Prior to joining Cambiar, Mr. Beranek was with Resources Trust where he had responsibility for oversight of financial controls for the company's mutual fund trading relationships. He began his career with Merrill Lynch. Mr. Beranek holds a Masters in Finance from the University of Colorado and a BS in Economics from the University of South Dakota.
Maria L. Mendelsberg, CFA, Principal, joined Cambiar in 1997 and has over 17 years of investment experience. Prior to joining Cambiar, Ms. Mendelsberg served as an investment analyst for Eaton Vance Management, a Boston based investment company. Before launching her investment career, she spent many years working in retail management. Ms. Mendelsberg received a BA in Economics and Classics from Brown University, and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Jennifer Dunne, CFA, Principal and International Portfolio Manager at Cambiar Investors has over 16 years of investment experience. Ms. Dunne is responsible for non-U.S. company coverage in the energy, industrials and utilities sectors. Prior to joining Cambiar in 2005, she was a senior equity analyst at Founders Asset Management LLC. Ms. Dunne received a graduate diploma from the London School of Economics, a Masters in Economics from the University of British Columbia, a BA from the University of Colorado and holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.
Artio Global Management LLC, ("Artio Global"), a Delaware limited liability company located at 330 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10017, is an investment adviser registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. As of September 30, 2010, Artio Global had total assets under management of approximately $XX billion.
Artio Global, through an intermediary holding company, is majority-owned by Artio Global Investors Inc. ("Artio Global Investors"), a Delaware corporation. Artio Global Investors' Class A shares have been listed on the New York Stock Exchange since September 24, 2009.
Artio Global Investors is currently 53% owned by the public and 28% owned by
GAM Holdings Ltd. (the firm's former sole stockholder). In addition, Artio's
Principals, Richard Pell (Chairman, CEO and CIO) and Rudolph-Riad Younes (Head
of International and Global Equities), each have an ownership interest of 9.5%
. GAM Holding Ltd., an asset manager listed on the Swiss Stock Exchange, is
expected to periodically evaluate its ongoing level of ownership of Artio
Global Investors.
Mr. Samuel A. Dedio is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund. Mr. Dedio joined Artio Global in 2006 as a Senior Portfolio Manager focusing on U.S. micro-, small- and mid-cap
equities. Prior to joining Artio Global, he spent seven years at Deutsche Asset Management, most recently as Managing Director, Co-Lead Portfolio Manager and Co-Head of U.S. Micro, Small and Mid Cap Investment Management. His previous positions also include Senior Industry Analyst at Ernst & Young LLP and Equity Analyst with both Evergreen Asset Management and Standard & Poor's Corp.
o Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund
Luther King Capital Management Corporation, a Delaware corporation established in 1979, serves as the sub-adviser to the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund. Luther King Capital Management's principal place of business is located at 301 Commerce Street, Suite 1600, Fort Worth, Texas 76102. As of September 30, 2010, LKCM had approximately $XX billion in assets under management. LKCM is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund's and the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund's investments.
J. Luther King, Jr. is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund. Mr. King has been President, Principal, and Portfolio Manager of Luther King Capital Management Corporation since 1979.
Steven R. Purvis is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund. Mr. Purvis has been a Portfolio Manager of Luther King Capital Management Corporation since 1996 and a Principal of the firm since 2003.
Paul W. Greenwell is jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund. Mr. Greenwell has been a Portfolio Manager of Luther King Capital Management Corporation since 1983 and a Principal of the firm since 1986.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the investment advisory contract with the Adviser and the sub-advisory contracts between the Adviser and each Sub-Adviser (except Cambiar and Artio Global) can be found in the Funds' Semi-Annual Report to Shareholders dated January 31, 2010. A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the investment sub-advisory contracts between the Advisor and Cambiar and Artio Global can be found in the Funds' Annual Report to Shareholders dated July 31, 2010.
The SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed, and ownership of Fund shares.
PURCHASING, SELLING AND EXCHANGING FUND SHARES
This section tells you how to purchase, sell (sometimes called "redeem") and exchange Institutional Class Shares of the Funds.
Institutional Class Shares are for individual and institutional investors.
HOW TO PURCHASE FUND SHARES
All investments must be made by check or wire. All checks must be made payable in U.S. dollars and drawn on U.S. financial institutions. The Funds do not accept purchases made by third-party checks, credit cards, credit card checks, cash, traveler's checks, money orders or cashier's checks.
The Funds reserve the right to reject any specific purchase order for any reason. The Funds are not intended for excessive trading by shareholders in response to short-term market fluctuations. For more information about the Funds' policy on excessive trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
The Funds do not generally accept investments by non-U.S. persons. Non-U.S. persons may be permitted to invest in the Fund subject to the satisfaction of enhanced due diligence. Please contact the Funds for more information.
BY MAIL
You can open an account with the Funds by sending a check and your account application to the address below. You can add to an existing account by sending the Funds a check and, if possible, the "Invest by Mail" stub that accompanies your statement. Be sure your check identifies clearly your name, your account number and the Fund name.
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
Frost Funds
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
Frost Funds
c/o DST Systems, Inc.
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
BY WIRE
To open an account by wire, call 1-877-71-FROST for details. To add to an existing account by wire, wire your money using the wiring instructions set forth below (be sure to include the Fund name and your account number).
WIRING INSTRUCTIONS
UMB Bank, N.A.
ABA # 101000695
Frost Funds
DDA Acct. # 9871063178
Ref: Fund name/account number/account name
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
You can open an account with a Fund with a minimum initial investment of $1,000,000 for Institutional Class Shares. Each Fund reserves the right to waive the minimum initial investment amount in its sole discretion. A Fund reserves the right to waive the minimum initial investment in its sole discretion.
HOW TO REDEEM FUND SHARES
BY MAIL
To redeem shares by mail, you may contact the Funds directly at: Frost Funds, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: Frost Funds, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105). Please send a letter to the Funds signed by all registered parties on the account specifying:
o The Fund name;
o The account number;
o The dollar amount or number of shares you wish to redeem;
o The account name(s); and
o The address to which redemption (sale) proceeds should be sent.
All registered shareholders must sign the letter in the exact name(s) in which their account is registered and must designate any special capacity in which they are registered.
Certain redemption requests require signature guarantees by a bank or member firm of a national securities exchange. For example, signature guarantees may be required if your address of record or banking instructions have recently been changed, or if you ask that the proceeds be sent to a different person or address. Signature guarantees are for the protection of the shareholders. Before granting a redemption request, a Fund may require a shareholder to furnish additional legal documents to ensure proper authorization.
BY TELEPHONE
You must first establish the telephone redemption privilege (and, if desired, the wire redemption privilege) by completing the appropriate sections of the account application. Call 1-877-71-FROST to redeem your shares. Based on your instructions, the Funds will mail your proceeds to you or send them to your bank via wire or Automated Clearing House ("ACH").
BY SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN (VIA ACH)
If your account balance is at least $25,000, you may transfer as little as $100 per month from your account to another financial institution through a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (via ACH). To participate in this service, you must complete the appropriate sections of the account application and mail it to the Funds.
EXCHANGING SHARES
At no charge, you may exchange Institutional Class Shares of a Fund for Institutional Class Shares of another Fund in the Frost Funds complex by writing to or calling the Funds. You may only exchange shares between accounts with identical registrations (i.e., the same names and addresses).
The exchange privilege is not intended as a vehicle for short-term or excessive trading. A Fund may suspend or terminate your exchange privilege if you engage in a pattern of exchanges that is excessive, as
determined in the sole discretion of the Funds. For more information about the Funds' policy on excessive trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
TRANSACTION POLICIES
CALCULATING YOUR SHARE PRICE
When you buy shares, you pay the "offering price" for the shares. The offering price is the NAV per share plus any sales charge applicable to the purchase. When you sell shares you receive the NAV minus any applicable Contingent Deferred Sales Charges ("CDSC") and/or redemption fee.
You may buy or sell shares of a Fund on any Business Day. Requests to buy and sell shares of a Fund are processed at the NAV next computed after the Fund receives and accepts your order. The Funds calculate NAV once each Business Day as of the close of normal trading on the NYSE (normally, 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time). To receive the NAV on any given day, a Fund or an authorized institution must receive your order in proper form (meaning that it is complete and contains all necessary information, and has all supporting documentation such as proper signature guarantees, IRA rollover forms, etc.) before the close of trading on the NYSE that day. Otherwise, you will receive the NAV that is calculated at the close of trading on the following Business Day if the NYSE is open for trading that day. If the NYSE closes early -- such as on days in advance of certain generally observed holidays -- each Fund reserves the right to calculate NAV as of the earlier closing time. Shares will not be priced on days that the NYSE is closed for trading, including nationally observed holidays. Since securities that are traded on foreign exchanges may trade on days when the NYSE is closed, the value of the Funds may change on days when you are unable to purchase or redeem shares.
The Funds calculate their NAV by adding the total value of their assets, subtracting their liabilities and then dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding. In calculating NAV, the Funds generally value their investment portfolios at market price. If market prices are not readily available or the Funds reasonably believe that they are unreliable, such as in the case of a security value that has been materially affected by events occurring after the relevant market closes, the Funds are required to price those securities at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Board of Trustees (the "Board"). Pursuant to policies adopted by and under the ultimate supervision of the Board, their methods are implemented through the Fund's Fair Value Committee, members of which are appointed by the Board. A Fund's determination of a security's fair value price often involves the consideration of a number of subjective factors, and is therefore subject to the unavoidable risk that the value that a Fund assigns to a security may be higher or lower than the security's value would be if a reliable market quotation for the security was readily available.
BUYING OR SELLING SHARES THROUGH A FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY
In addition to being able to buy and sell Fund shares directly from a Fund through its transfer agent, you may also buy or sell shares of a Fund through accounts with brokers and other institutions that are authorized to place trades in Fund shares for their customers ("authorized institutions"). When you buy or sell Fund shares through certain authorized institutions (rather than directly from the Fund), you may have to transmit your purchase and sale requests to these authorized institutions at an earlier time for your transaction to become effective that day. This allows these authorized institutions time to process your requests and transmit them to the Fund. Your authorized institution is responsible for transmitting all purchase and sale requests, investment information, documentation and money to the Fund on time.
Certain financial intermediaries, including certain broker-dealers and shareholder organizations, are authorized to accept purchase and sale requests for Fund shares. These requests are executed at the NAV next determined after the intermediary receives the request if transmitted to the Funds' transfer agent in accordance with the Funds' procedures and applicable law. These authorized intermediaries are responsible for transmitting requests and delivering funds on a timely basis. If your financial intermediary fails to do so, it may be responsible for any resulting fees or losses.
If you deal directly with a financial intermediary or an authorized institution, you will have to follow their procedures for transacting with the Funds. For more information about how to buy or sell Fund shares through a financial intermediary or an authorized institution, you should contact them directly. Investors may be charged a fee for purchase and/or sale transactions effectuated through certain financial intermediaries and authorized institutions.
IN-KIND TRANSACTIONS
Under certain conditions and at the Funds' discretion, you may pay for shares of the Funds with securities instead of cash. The Funds generally pay sale (redemption) proceeds in cash. However, under unusual conditions that make the payment of cash unwise and for the protection of the Funds' remaining shareholders, the Funds might pay all or part of your redemption proceeds in liquid securities with a market value equal to the redemption price (redemption in kind). It is highly unlikely that your shares would ever be redeemed in kind, but if they were you would have to pay transaction costs to sell the securities distributed to you, as well as taxes on any capital gains from the sale as with any redemption. In addition, you would continue to be subject to the risks of any market fluctuation in the value of the securities you receive in kind until they are sold.
INVOLUNTARY REDEMPTIONS OF YOUR SHARES
If your account balance drops below $1,000 because of redemptions, you may be required to sell your shares. The Funds will provide you at least 30 days' written notice to give you sufficient time to add to your account and avoid the need to sell your shares. If your Frost International Equity Fund shares are redeemed for this reason within 30 calendar days of their purchase, the redemption fee will not be applied.
SUSPENSION OF YOUR RIGHT TO SELL YOUR SHARES
The Funds may suspend your right to sell your shares during times when trading on the NYSE is restricted or halted, or otherwise as permitted by the SEC. More information about this is in the Statement of Additional Information.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
Purchasing, selling, and exchanging Fund shares over the telephone is extremely convenient, but not without risk. Although the Funds have certain safeguards and procedures to confirm the identity of callers and the authenticity of instructions, the Funds are not responsible for any losses or costs incurred by following telephone instructions they reasonably believe to be genuine. If you or your financial intermediary transact with the Funds over the telephone, you will generally bear the risk of any loss.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS
The Funds may compensate financial intermediaries for providing a variety of services to shareholders. Financial intermediaries include affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust
departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Funds, their service providers or their respective affiliates. This section and the following section briefly describe how financial intermediaries may be paid for providing these services.
The Funds generally pay financial intermediaries a fee that is based on the assets of the Funds that are attributable to investments by customers of the financial intermediary. The services for which financial intermediaries are compensated may include record-keeping, transaction processing for shareholders' accounts and other shareholder services. In addition to these payments, your financial intermediary may charge you account fees, transaction fees for buying or redeeming shares of a Fund, or other fees for servicing your account. Your financial intermediary should provide a schedule of its fees and services to you upon request.
The Funds do not pay these service fees on shares purchased directly. In addition to payments made directly to financial intermediaries by the Funds, the Adviser or their affiliates may, at their own expense, pay financial intermediaries for these and other services to Fund shareholders, as described in the section below.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
From time to time, the Adviser and/or its affiliates, at their discretion, may make payments to certain affiliated or unaffiliated financial intermediaries to compensate them for the costs associated with distribution, marketing, administration and shareholder servicing support. These payments are sometimes characterized as "revenue sharing" payments and are made out of the Adviser's and/or its affiliates' own legitimate profits or other resources, and are not paid by the Funds. A financial intermediary may provide these services with respect to Fund shares sold or held through programs such as retirement plans, qualified tuition programs, fund supermarkets, fee-based advisory or wrap fee programs, bank trust programs, and insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. In addition, financial intermediaries may receive payments for making shares of the Funds available to their customers or registered representatives, including providing the Funds with "shelf space," placing it on a preferred or recommended fund list, or promoting the Funds in certain sales programs that are sponsored by financial intermediaries. To the extent permitted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and FINRA rules and other applicable laws and regulations, the Adviser and/or its affiliates may pay or allow other promotional incentives or payments to financial intermediaries. For more information please see "Payments to Financial Intermediaries" in the Funds' Statement of Additional Information.
The level of payments to individual financial intermediaries varies in any given year and may be negotiated on the basis of sales of Fund shares, the amount of Fund assets serviced by the financial intermediary or the quality of the financial intermediary's relationship with the Adviser and/or its affiliates. These payments may be more or less than the payments received by the financial intermediaries from other mutual funds and may influence a financial intermediary to favor the sales of certain funds or share classes over others. In certain instances, the payments could be significant and may cause a conflict of interest for your financial intermediary. Any such payments will not change the net asset value or price of a Fund's shares. Please contact your financial intermediary for information about any payments it may receive in connection with the sale of Fund shares or the provision of services to Fund shareholders, as well as information about any fees and/or commissions it charges.
OTHER POLICIES
EXCESSIVE TRADING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Funds are intended for long-term investment purposes only and discourage shareholders from engaging in "market timing" or other types of excessive short-term trading. This frequent trading into and out of a Fund may present risks to the Fund's long-term shareholders, all of which could adversely affect shareholder returns. The risks posed by frequent trading include interfering with the efficient implementation of a Fund's investment strategies, triggering the recognition of taxable gains and losses on the sale of Fund investments, requiring the Fund to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemption requests, and experiencing increased transaction costs. In addition, because the Funds indirectly invest in foreign securities traded primarily on markets that close prior to the time the Funds determine their NAV, the risks posed by frequent trading may have a greater potential to dilute the value of Fund shares held by long-term shareholders than Funds investing exclusively in U.S. securities.
In instances where a significant event that affects the value of one or more foreign securities held by a Fund takes place after the close of the primary foreign market, but before the time that the Fund determines its NAV, certain investors may seek to take advantage of the fact that there will be a delay in the adjustment of the market price for a security caused by this event until the foreign market reopens (sometimes referred to as "price" or "time zone" arbitrage). Shareholders who attempt this type of arbitrage may dilute the value of their Fund's shares if the price of the Fund's foreign securities do not reflect their fair value. Although the Funds have procedures designed to determine the fair value of foreign securities for purposes of calculating their NAV when such an event has occurred, fair value pricing, because it involves judgments which are inherently subjective, may not always eliminate the risk of price arbitrage.
For more information on how the Funds use fair value pricing, see "Calculating Your Share Price." The Funds' service providers will take steps reasonably designed to detect and deter frequent trading by shareholders pursuant to the Funds' policies and procedures described in this prospectus and approved by the Funds' Board of Trustees. For purposes of applying these policies, the Funds' service providers may consider the trading history of accounts under common ownership or control. The Funds' policies and procedures include the following:
o Shareholders are restricted from making more than five "round trips," including exchanges into or out of a Fund, per calendar year. If a shareholder exceeds this amount, the Fund and/or its service providers may, at their discretion, reject any additional purchase orders. The Funds define a round trip as a purchase into a Fund by a shareholder, followed by a subsequent redemption out of the Fund, of an amount the Adviser reasonably believes would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
o The Frost International Equity Fund assesses a redemption fee of 2.00% on redemptions by shareholders of Fund shares held for less than 30 calendar days (subject to certain exceptions as discussed in "Redemption Fee").
o The Funds reserve the right to reject any purchase request by any investor or group of investors for any reason without prior notice, including, in particular, if a Fund or its Adviser/Sub-Adviser reasonably believes that the trading activity would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
The Funds and/or their service providers seek to apply these policies to the best of their abilities uniformly and in a manner they believe is consistent with the interests of the Funds' long-term shareholders. The Funds do not knowingly accommodate frequent purchases and redemptions by Fund shareholders. Although these policies are designed to deter frequent trading, none of these measures alone nor all of them taken together eliminate the possibility that frequent trading in the Funds will occur. Systematic purchases and redemptions are exempt from these policies.
Financial intermediaries (such as investment advisers and broker-dealers) often establish omnibus accounts in the Funds for their customers through which transactions are placed. In accordance with Rule 22c-2 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), the Funds have entered into information sharing agreements with certain financial intermediaries. Under these agreements, a financial intermediary is obligated to: (1) enforce during the term of the agreement, the Funds' market-timing policy; (2) furnish the Funds, upon its request, with information regarding customer trading activities in shares of the Funds; and (3) enforce the Funds' market-timing policy with respect to customers identified by the Funds as having engaged in market timing. When information regarding transactions in the Funds' shares is requested by a Fund and such information is in the possession of a person that is itself a financial intermediary to a financial intermediary (an "indirect intermediary"), any financial intermediary with whom the Funds have an information sharing agreement is obligated to obtain transaction information from the indirect intermediary or, if directed by the Funds, to restrict or prohibit the indirect intermediary from purchasing shares of the Funds on behalf of other persons. Please contact your financial intermediary for more information.
REDEMPTION FEE
In an effort to discourage short-term trading and defray costs incurred by shareholders as a result of such trading, the Frost International Equity Fund charges a 2.00% redemption fee on redemptions of shares that have been held for less than 30 days. The fee is deducted from the sale proceeds and cannot be paid separately, and any proceeds of the fee are credited to the assets of the Fund. The fee does not apply to the exchange of shares or shares purchased with reinvested dividends or distributions. In determining how long shares of the Fund have been held, the Fund assumes that shares held by the investor the longest period of time will be sold first. The redemption fee is applicable to Fund shares purchased either directly or through a financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer. Transactions through financial intermediaries typically are placed with the Fund on an omnibus basis and include both purchase and sale transactions placed on behalf of multiple investors. The Fund requests that financial intermediaries assess the redemption fee on customer accounts and collect and remit the proceeds to the Fund. However, the Fund recognizes that due to operational requirements, the intermediaries' methods for tracking and calculating the fee may be inadequate or differ in some respects from the Fund's.
The Fund reserves the right to waive the redemption fee in its discretion where it believes such waiver is in the best interests of the Fund, including certain categories of redemptions that the Fund reasonably believes may not raise frequent trading or market timing concerns. These categories include, but are not limited to, the following: (i) participants in certain group retirement plans whose processing systems are incapable of properly applying the redemption fee to underlying shareholders; (ii) redemptions resulting from certain transfers upon the death of a shareholder; (iii) redemptions by certain pension plans as required by law or by regulatory authorities; (iv) failed verifications; (v) involuntary redemptions; and (vi) retirement loans and withdrawals. The redemption fee will not be applied on redemptions made within the 30 calendar day period because the account does not meet the applicable minimum account size or because the Fund is unable to verify the accountholder's identity within a reasonable time after the account is opened.
CUSTOMER IDENTIFICATION AND VERIFICATION
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account.
What this means to you: When you open an account, the Funds will ask your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow the Funds to identify you. This information is subject to verification to ensure the identity of all persons opening a mutual fund account.
The Funds are required by law to reject your new account application if the required identifying information is not provided.
In certain instances, the Funds are required to collect documents to fulfill their legal obligation. Documents provided in connection with your application will be used solely to establish and verify a customer's identity.
Attempts to collect the missing information required on the application will be performed by either contacting you or, if applicable, your broker. If this information is unable to be obtained within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Funds, your application will be rejected.
Upon receipt of your application in proper form (or upon receipt of all identifying information required on the application), your investment will be accepted and your order will be processed at the next-determined NAV per share.
However, each Fund reserves the right to close or liquidate your account at the NAV next determined and remit proceeds to you via check if it is unable to verify your identity. Attempts to verify your identity will be performed within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Fund. Further, each Fund reserves the right to hold your proceeds until your original check clears the bank, which may take up to 15 days from the date of purchase. In such an instance, you may be subject to a gain or loss on Fund shares and will be subject to corresponding tax implications. If your account is closed for this reason, the redemption fee will not be applied.
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING PROGRAM
Customer identification and verification is part of the Funds' overall obligation to deter money laundering under federal law. The Funds have adopted an anti-money laundering compliance program designed to prevent the Funds from being used for money laundering or the financing of illegal activities. In this regard, the Funds reserve the right to: (i) refuse, cancel or rescind any purchase or exchange order; (ii) freeze any account and/or suspend account services; or (iii) involuntarily close your account in cases of threatening conduct or suspected fraudulent or illegal activity. These actions will be taken when, in the sole discretion of Fund management, they are deemed to be in the best interest of a Fund or in cases when a Fund is requested or compelled to do so by governmental or law enforcement authority. If your account is closed at the request of governmental or law enforcement authority, you may not receive proceeds of the redemption if the Funds are required to withhold such proceeds.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
Normally, the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund, the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund, the Frost International Equity Fund, the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund, the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund each distribute their net investment income and make distributions of their net realized capital gains, if any, at least annually. Normally, the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund, the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, the Frost Total Return Fund, the Frost Municipal Bond Fund, the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund, the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund, and the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund each distribute their net investment income, if any, monthly and make distributions of their net realized capital gains, if any, at least annually. If you own Fund shares on a Fund's record date, you will be entitled to receive the distribution.
Each Fund will automatically reinvest dividends and distributions in additional shares of the Fund, unless you elect on your account application to receive them in cash. To elect cash payment, you must notify the Fund in writing prior to the date of the distribution. Your election will be effective for dividends and distributions paid after the Fund receives your written notice. To cancel your election, simply send the Fund written notice.
TAXES
PLEASE CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISOR REGARDING YOUR SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ABOUT FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL INCOME TAXES. The following is a summary of the federal income tax consequences of investing in the Funds. This summary does not apply to shares held in an individual retirement account or other tax-qualified plan, which are not subject to current tax. Transactions relating to shares held in such accounts may, however, be taxable at some time in the future. This summary is based on current tax laws, which may change.
Each Fund will distribute substantially all of its net investment income and its net realized capital gains, if any. The dividends and distributions you receive, whether in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the Funds may be subject to federal, state, and local taxation, depending upon your tax situation. Income distributions, including distributions of net short-term capital gains but excluding distributions of qualified dividend income, are generally taxable at ordinary income tax rates. Capital gains distributions and distributions that are designated by the Funds as qualified dividend income are generally taxable at the rates applicable to long-term capital gains. Distributions from the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, Frost Total Return Bond Fund, Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, Frost Municipal Bond Fund, and Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund are not expected to qualify for the reduced tax rates on qualified dividend income. The Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, Frost Total Return Bond Fund, and Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund are each expected to make primarily ordinary income distributions. Because the Frost Municipal Bond Fund and Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund invest primarily in municipal bonds, the dividends you receive from these Funds will generally be exempt from regular federal income tax. All or a portion of these dividends, however, may be subject to state and local taxes or to the federal alternative minimum tax. Although the Frost Municipal Bond Fund and Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund do not seek to realize taxable income or capital gains, these Funds may realize and distribute taxable income or capital gains from time to time as a result of their normal investment activities. Once a year the Funds will send you a statement showing the types and total amount of distributions you received during the previous year. You should note that if you purchase shares just before a distribution, the purchase price would reflect the amount of the upcoming distribution. In this case, you would be taxed on the entire amount of the distribution received, even though, as an economic matter, the distribution simply constitutes a return of your investment. This is known as "buying a dividend" and should be avoided by taxable investors. Call 1-877-71-FROST to find out when a Fund expects to make a distribution to shareholders.
Each sale of shares of a Fund may be a taxable event. For tax purposes, an exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different fund is the same as a sale. A sale may result in a capital gain or loss to you. For tax purposes, an exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different Fund is the same as a sale. The gain or loss generally will be treated as short term if you held the shares 12 months or less, long term if you held the shares for longer.
Many states grant tax-free status to dividends paid to you from interest earned on direct obligations of the U.S. government, subject in some states to minimum investment requirements that must be met by the Funds. Investment in Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae") or Federal National
Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") securities, banker's acceptances, commercial paper, and repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government securities do not generally qualify for such tax-free treatment. The rules on exclusion of this income are different for corporate shareholders.
To the extent that a Fund invests in foreign securities, it may be subject to foreign withholding taxes with respect to dividends or interest the Fund received from sources in foreign countries. A Fund may elect to treat some of those taxes as a distribution to shareholders, which would allow shareholders to offset some of their U.S. federal income tax. A Fund will notify you if it makes such an election and provide you with the information necessary to reflect foreign taxes paid on your income tax return.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TAXES IS IN THE SAI.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The table that follows presents performance information about each Fund. The information is intended to help you understand each Fund's financial performance for the period of the Fund's operations. Some of this information reflects financial information for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that you would have earned (or lost) on an investment in a Fund, assuming you reinvested all of your dividends and distributions. The information provided below has been derived from each Fund's financial statements, which have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP whose report, and each Fund's financial statements, are included in the Funds' Annual Report. The report of Ernst & Young LLP, along with each Fund's financial statements and related notes, appears in the Annual Report that accompanies the Statement of Additional Information. You can obtain the Annual Report, which contains more performance information, at no charge by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES (5) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Net Realized and Net Asset Net Unrealized Dividends Distributions Value, Investment Gain (Loss) on Total from Net from Net Asset Beginning Income Investments and from Investment Realized Total Value, End of Period (Loss)(9) Foreign Currency Operations Income Gains Dividends of Period ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FROST CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx xxx 2009 9.34 0.03 (1.74) (1.71) (0.02) -- (0.02) 7.61 2008 (6) 10.00 0.00(3) (0.66) (0.66) -- -- -- 9.34 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FROST DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ 2009 $ 9.20 $0.21 $(1.61) $(1.40) $(0.21) $(0.15) $(0.36) $7.44 2008(6) 10.00 0.07 (0.80) (0.73) (0.07) -- (0.07) 9.20 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FROST STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.76 $0.32 $(1.11) $(0.79) $(0.30) $ -- $(0.30) $8.67 2008(7) 10.00 0.01 (0.23) (0.22) (0.02) -- (0.02) 9.76 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.08 $0.20 $(1.73) $(1.53) $(0.21) $(0.14) $(0.35) $7.20 2008 (6) 10.00 0.05 (0.92) (0.87) (0.05) -- (0.05) 9.08 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.61 $(0.02) $(2.58) $(2.60) $ -- $(0.07) $(0.07) $6.94 2008(6) 10.00 (0.01) (0.38) (0.39) -- -- -- 9.61 |
1 Annualized.
2 Not annualized.
3 Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized. Returns
shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on
Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total return would have
been lower had certain expenses not been waived and assumed by the Advisor
during the period. Total return figures do not include applicable sales loads.
4 Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived and
assumed by the Adviser during the period.
5 Amount represents less than $0.01.
6 Commenced operations on April 25, 2008
7 Commenced operations on June 30, 2008.
8 Commenced operations in August 28, 2008.
9 Per share data calculated using the average shares method.
Amounts designated as "--" are $0 or have been rounded to $0.
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets Ratio of Net Ratio of (Excluding Investment Net Assets, Expenses Waivers Income (Loss) Portfolio Total End of Period to Average and Fees Paid to Average Turnover Return(3) (000) Net Assets Indirectly) Net Assets Rate ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (18.28)(4) $188,920 0.85% 1.00% 0.38% 72% 2008(6) (6.60)(4) 211,065 0.86(1) 1.01(1) 0.21(1) 5(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (14.76)%(4) $157,923 0.86% 1.01% 2.96% 65% 2008(6) (7.28)%(4) 146,164 0.88(1) 1.03(1) 2.91(1) 34(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (7.66)%(4) $12,038 1.18% 1.23% 3.94% 33% 2008(7) (2.25)(4) 23,960 1.35(1) 1.79(1) 1.05(1) 9(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (16.33)% $119,227 0.81% 0.81% 3.02% 12% 2008(6) (8.69) 153,539 0.82(1) 0.82(1) 2.20(1) 11(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (26.94)% $ 80,026 1.25% 1.25% (0.27)% 273% 2008(6) (3.90) 64,577 1.33(1) 1.33(1) (0.26)(1) 110(2) |
1 Annualized.
2 Not annualized.
3 Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized. Returns
shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on
Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total return would have
been lower had certain expenses not been waived and assumed by the Advisor
during the period. Total return figures do not include applicable sales loads.
4 Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived and
assumed by the Adviser during the period.
5 Amount represents less than $0.01.
6 Commenced operations on April 25, 2008
7 Commenced operations on June 30, 2008.
8 Commenced operations in August 28, 2008.
9 Per share data calculated using the average shares method.
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES (5)
Net Realized and Net Asset Net Unrealized Dividends Distributions Value, Investment Gains (Losses) on Total from Net from Total Net Asset Beginning Income Investments and from Investment Realized Dividends & Value, End of Period (Loss)(9) Foreign Currency Operations Income Gains Distributions of Period ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.01 $ 0.08 $(1.71) $(1.63) $(0.20) $ -- $(0.20) $ 7.18 2008 (6) 10.00 0.06 (1.05) (0.99) -- -- -- 9.01 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST LOW DURATION BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $10.01 $ 0.47 $ 0.30 $ 0.77 $(0.46) $(0.00)(5) $(0.46) $10.32 2008 (6) 10.00 0.10 0.01 0.11 (0.10) -- (0.10) 10.01 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $9.89 $ 0.58 $ 0.28 $ 0.86 $(0.56) $(0.02) $(0.58) $10.17 2008 (6) 10.00 0.13 (0.11) 0.02 (0.13) -- (0.13) 9.89 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST MUNICIPAL BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.94 $ 0.34 $ 0.34 $ 0.68 $(0.34) $(0.00)(5) $(0.34) $10.28 2008 (6) 10.00 0.09 (0.07) 0.02 (0.08) -- (0.08) 9.94 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $10.00 $ 0.23 $ 0.22 $ 0.45 $(0.23) $ -- $(0.23) $10.22 2008 (6) 10.00 0.06 0.00(5) 0.06 (0.06) -- (0.06) 10.00 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.94 $ 0.01 $ 0.33 $ 0.34 $(0.10) $(0.04) $(0.14) $10.14 2008 10.00 0.12 (0.06) 0.06 (0.12) -- (0.12) 9.94 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.32 $ 0.04 $(1.47) $(1.43) $(0.02) $(0.81) $(0.83) $ 7.06 2008 10.00 0.01 (0.69) (0.68) -- -- -- 9.32 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 $ 9.57 $(0.03) $(2.41) $(2.44) $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 7.13 2008 10.00 (0.01) (0.42) (0.43) -- -- -- 9.57 |
1 Annualized.
2 Not annualized.
3 Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized. Returns
shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on
Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total return would have
been lower had certain expenses not been waived and assumed by the Advisor
during the period. Total return figures do not include applicable sales loads.
4 Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived and
assumed by the Adviser during the period.
5 Amount represents less than $0.01.
6 Commenced operations on April 25, 2008
7 Commenced operations on June 30, 2008.
8 Commenced operations in August 28, 2008.
9 Per share data calculated using the average shares method.
Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets Ratio of Net Ratio of (Excluding Investment Net Assets, Expenses Waivers Income (Loss) Portfolio Total End of Period to Average and Fees Paid to Average Turnover Return(3) (000) Net Assets Indirectly) Net Assets Rate ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (17.51)% $182,004 1.21% 1.21% 1.27% 51% 2008 (6) (9.90) 230,394 1.19(1) 1.19(1) 2.25(1) 16(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST LOW DURATION BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 8.00%(4) $103,107 0.52% 0.72% 4.77% 56% 2008 (6) 1.12(4) 118,107 0.56(1) 0.76(1) 3.88(1) 8(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 9.08%(4) $238,649 0.59% 0.69% 5.97% 67% 2008 (6) 0.15(4) 199,384 0.62(1) 0.72(1) 4.78(1) 12(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST MUNICIPAL BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 6.99%(4) $141,775 0.62% 0.72% 3.39% 14% 2008 (6) 0.24(4) 124,174 0.67(1) 0.77(1) 3.20(1) 3(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 4.51%(4) $ 54,257 0.61% 0.81% 2.26% 27% 2008 (6) 0.57(4) 48,699 0.72(1) 0.92(1) 2.18(1) 10(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND 2010 3.50% $ 26,128 0.70% 0.70% 0.12% 114% 2009 3.50% $ 26,128 0.70% 0.70% 0.12% 114% 2008 0.59 21,852 1.00(1) 1.00(1) 4.42(1) 0(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (13.43)% $ 9,807 1.35% 1.36% 0.62% 34% 2008 (6.80) 17,389 1.35(1) 1.46(1) 0.46(1) 23(2) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND 2010 $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx $ xxx 2009 (25.50)% $ 10,778 1.55% 1.63% (0.42)% 88% 2008 (4.30) 10,984 1.55(1) 2.13(1) (0.19)(1) 27(2) |
1 Annualized.
2 Not annualized.
3 Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized. Returns
shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on
Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total return would have
been lower had certain expenses not been waived and assumed by the Advisor
during the period. Total return figures do not include applicable sales loads.
4 Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been waived and
assumed by the Adviser during the period.
5 Amount represents less than $0.01.
6 Commenced operations on April 25, 2008
7 Commenced operations on June 30, 2008.
8 Commenced operations in August 28, 2008.
9 Per share data calculated using the average shares method.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
FROST FUNDS
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC
100 West Houston Street, 15th Floor Tower
San Antonio, Texas 78205-1414
SUB-ADVISERS
Thornburg Investment Management, Inc.
2300 North Ridgetop Road
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87506
Kempner Capital Management, Inc.
2201 Market Street, 12th Floor FNB Building
Galveston, Texas 77550-1503
Cambiar Investors LLC
2401 East Second Avenue, Suite 500
Denver, Colorado 80206
Artio Global Management LLC
330 Madison Avenue
New York, New York 10017
Luther King Capital Management Corporation
301 Commerce Street, Suite 1600
Fort Worth, Texas 76102-4140
DISTRIBUTOR
SEI Investments Distribution Co.
One Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
More information about the Funds is available, without charge, through the following:
Statement of Additional Information ("SAI"): The SAI includes detailed information about the Funds and The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II. The SAI is on file with the SEC and is incorporated by reference into this prospectus. This means that the SAI, for legal purposes, is a part of this prospectus.
Annual and Semi-Annual Reports: These reports contain information from the Funds' portfolio managers about investment strategies, recent market conditions and trends and their impact on Fund performance. The reports also contain more information about the Funds' holdings and detailed financial information about the Funds.
TO OBTAIN AN SAI, ANNUAL OR SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT OR MORE INFORMATION (PLEASE NOTE THAT THE FUNDS DO NOT HAVE A WEBSITE):
By Telephone: 1-877-71-FROST (1-877-713-7678) By Mail: Frost Funds P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 FROM THE SEC: You can also obtain the SAI, as well as other information about |
The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II, from the EDGAR Database on the SEC's website at: http://www.sec.gov. You may review and copy documents at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, DC (for information on the operation of the Public Reference Room, call 202-942-8090). You may request documents by mail from the SEC, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by writing to: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Public Reference Section, Washington, DC 20549. You may also obtain this information, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by e-mailing the SEC at the following address: publicinfo@sec.gov.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II'S INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT REGISTRATION NUMBER
IS 811-07102.
[INSERT CODE]
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
PROSPECTUS
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
GRT VALUE FUND
TICKER SYMBOL: GRTVX
ADVISOR CLASS SHARES
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
GRT CAPITAL PARTNERS, L.L.C.
THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED
THESE SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS
THIS PROSPECTUS HAS BEEN ARRANGED INTO DIFFERENT SECTIONS SO THAT YOU CAN EASILY REVIEW THIS IMPORTANT INFORMATION. FOR DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND, PLEASE SEE:
Page INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ....................................................... X FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ..................................................... X PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ............................................ XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ............................................................ XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION .................................................... XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ......................................................... XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ......................................................... XX PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES ........................................... XX TAX INFORMATION ............................................................ XX PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ......................................................... XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK ................................................ XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS .................................... XX INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ....................................... XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ......................................................... XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ......................................................... XX HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE DATA OF THE ADVISER ................................. XX PURCHASING, SELLING AND EXCHANGING FUND SHARES ............................. XX DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES ................................................ XX SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS ......................................... XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ....................................... XX OTHER POLICIES ............................................................. XX DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS ................................................ XX TAXES ...................................................................... XX FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS ....................................................... XX HOW TO OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND ....................... Back Cover |
GRT VALUE FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The GRT Value Fund (the "Fund") seeks capital appreciation.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Class Shares of the Fund.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Management Fees 0.95% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Distribution (12b-1) Fees 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund's, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The Fund invests primarily in publicly traded equity securities of companies that the Adviser believes are selling at a market price below their true value and offer the potential to increase in value. These might include companies that are out of favor or overlooked by analysts for a number of reasons. The Adviser looks for companies that appear likely to come back in favor due to factors such as good prospective earnings, strong management teams, new products and services, or some unique circumstance. The Fund will generally invest in equity securities of domestic companies, but may also invest in equity securities of foreign companies and American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"). The Adviser expects that the Fund's investments in foreign companies will represent less than 10% of the Fund's assets under normal market conditions.
The Fund may invest in companies of any size, ranging from large to small
capitalizations, although the Adviser expects to focus on small capitalization
companies. The Fund uses the Russell 2000 Index as a guide to the size of small
capitalization companies at the time of an investment. The size range of
companies in the Russell 2000 Index can vary widely over time. As of October
[31], 2010, for example, the companies ranged in size from $XX billion to $XX
million in market capitalization, with an average of $XX million. The Adviser
will not necessarily sell a security that has appreciated outside of the range
of the Russell 2000 Index.
The Adviser employs a "farm team" investment process. In this approach, positions often begin relatively small and increase in size as the Adviser's confidence grows and the original investment thesis is confirmed. In addition, the Adviser may trade around a position to take advantage of volatility in the markets and short-term trading opportunities for names that do not fall under the "farm team" approach.
The Adviser may also create multiple categories of investments as a way to obtain overall portfolio diversification, in addition to traditional sector diversification. For example, portfolio companies can be divided into to following categories, among others:
TURNAROUND COMPANIES -- Turnaround companies are those that have declined in value for business or market reasons, but which may be able to make a turnaround because of, for instance, a renewed focus on operations and the sale of assets to help reduce debt.
DEEP VALUE COMPANIES -- Deep value companies are those that appear inexpensive relative to the value of their assets, the book value of their stock and the earning potential of their business.
POST-BANKRUPTCY COMPANIES -- Post-bankruptcy companies are those which have emerged from bankruptcy reorganization as a public entity and are not followed widely, and, because of the taint of bankruptcy, may be undervalued.
By organizing stocks in a number of categories, the Adviser believes it can focus on the most relevant factors pertaining to a given company. In addition, the Adviser may develop computerized monitoring
systems which help identify particular companies within a category that may warrant further trading attention because of their market action or because of changes in their financial results.
Due to its investment strategy, the Fund may buy and sell securities frequently. This may result in higher transaction costs and additional capital gains liabilities than a fund with a buy and hold strategy. Higher transaction costs may negatively impact Fund performance.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risks affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
EQUITY RISK -- Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
INVESTMENT STYLE RISK -- The Fund pursues a "value style" of investing. Value investing focuses on companies with stocks that appear undervalued in light of a variety of factors. If the Adviser's assessment of a company's value or prospects is wrong, the Fund could suffer losses or produce poor performance relative to other funds. In addition, "value stocks" can continue to be undervalued by the market for long periods of time. For example, the Fund may have investments in companies involved in (or the target of) acquisition attempts or tender offers or companies involved in work-outs, liquidations, spin-offs, reorganizations, bankruptcies or similar transactions. In any investment opportunity involving any such type of business enterprise, there exists the risk that the transaction in which the business enterprise is involved either will be unsuccessful, take considerable time or will result in a distribution of cash or a new security the value of which will be less than the purchase price to the Fund of the security or other financial instrument relating to such distribution. Similarly, if an anticipated transaction does not in fact occur, the Fund may be required to sell its investment at a loss. Because there is substantial uncertainty concerning the outcome of transactions involving financially troubled companies in which the Fund may invest, there is a potential risk of loss by the Fund of its entire investment in such companies.
SMALL-CAPITALIZATION COMPANY RISK -- The small-capitalization companies in which the Fund may invest may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small-cap stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over-the-counter or listed on an exchange.
FOREIGN COMPANY RISK -- Investing in foreign companies, whether through investments made in foreign markets or made through the purchase of ADRs, which are traded on U.S. exchanges and represent an ownership in a foreign security, poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These risks will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency, the value of which may be influenced by currency exchange rates and exchange control regulations. Changes in the value of a currency compared
to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from, and in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country. While ADRs provide an alternative to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their respective national markets and currencies, investments in ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing how the Fund's average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available by calling 1-877-GRT-4GRT.
2009 XX%
During the periods shown in the chart, the Fund's highest return for a quarter
was XX% (quarter ended XX/XX/XXXX) and the lowest return for a quarter was
(XX)% (quarter ended XX/XX/XXXX). The Fund's performance from 1/1/2010 to
9/30/2010 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
SINCE INCEPTION ADVISOR CLASS SHARES 1 YEAR (5/1/08) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fund Returns Before Taxes XX% XX% Fund Returns After Taxes on Distributions XX% XX% Fund Returns After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund XX% XX% Shares Russell 2000(R) Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes) XX% XX% INVESTMENT ADVISER |
GRT Capital Partners, L.L.C.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Rudolph K. Kluiber, Managing Member of the Adviser and Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception.
Gregory B. Fraser, Managing Member of the Adviser and Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception.
Timothy A. Krochuk, Managing Member of the Adviser and Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception.
PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES
To purchase shares of the Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $2,500 ($500 for individual retirement accounts ("IRAs") and $250 for Spousal IRAs). Subsequent investments must be made in amounts of at least $250.
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business (a "Business Day") by contacting the Fund directly by mail at GRT Value Fund, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: DST Systems, Inc., c/o GRT Value Fund, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105) or telephone at 1-877-GRT-4GRT.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
If you purchase shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary's web site for more information.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK
Investing in the Fund involves risk and there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its goal. The Adviser's judgments about the markets, the economy, or companies may not anticipate actual market movements, economic conditions or company performance, and these judgments may affect the return on your investment. In fact, no matter how good a job the Adviser does, you could lose money on your investment in the Fund, just as you could with other investments.
The value of your investment in the Fund is based on the value of the securities the Fund holds. These prices change daily due to economic and other events that affect particular companies and other issuers. These price movements, sometimes called volatility, may be greater or lesser depending on the types of securities the Fund owns and the markets in which they trade. The effect on the Fund of a change in the value of a single security will depend on how widely the Fund diversifies its holdings.
EQUITY RISK -- Equity securities in which the Fund invests include publicly and privately issued equity securities, common and preferred stocks, warrants, shares of ADRs and rights to subscribe to common stock and convertible securities. Common stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. Preferred stock provides a fixed dividend that is paid before any dividends are paid to common stockholders, and which takes precedence over common stock in the event of a liquidation. Like common stock, preferred stocks represent partial ownership in a company, although preferred stock shareholders do not enjoy any of the voting rights of common stockholders. Also, unlike common stock, a preferred stock pays a fixed dividend that does not fluctuate, although the company does not have to pay this dividend if it lacks the financial ability to do so. Investments in equity securities in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. The value of securities convertible into equity securities, such as warrants or convertible debt, is also affected by prevailing interest rates, the credit quality of the issuer and any call provision. Fluctuations in the value of equity securities in which a mutual fund invests will cause the fund's net asset value to fluctuate. An investment in a portfolio of equity securities may be more suitable for long-term investors who can bear the risk of these share price fluctuations.
FOREIGN SECURITY RISK -- The Fund's investments in securities of foreign companies (including direct investments as well as investments through ADRs) can be more volatile than investments in U.S. companies. Diplomatic, political, or economic developments, including nationalization or appropriation, could affect investments in foreign companies. Foreign securities markets generally have less trading volume and less liquidity than U.S. markets. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies, and of dividends from such securities, can change significantly when foreign currencies strengthen or weaken relative to the U.S. dollar. Foreign companies or governments generally are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to domestic U.S. companies or governments. Transaction costs are generally higher than those in the United States and expenses for custodial arrangements of foreign securities may be somewhat greater than typical expenses for custodial arrangements of similar U.S. securities. Some foreign governments levy withholding taxes against dividend and interest income. Although in some countries a portion of these taxes are recoverable, the non-recovered portion will reduce the income received from the securities comprising the portfolio.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS
The investment objective of the Fund is to provide capital appreciation. The investment objective of the Fund may be changed without shareholder approval.
The investments and strategies described in this prospectus are those that the Fund uses under normal conditions. During unusual economic or market conditions, or for temporary defensive or liquidity purposes, the Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in money market instruments and other cash equivalents, exchange traded funds ("ETFs"), and relatively larger market capitalization companies, that would not ordinarily be consistent with its investment objective. If the Fund invests in this manner, it may not achieve its investment objective. The Fund will do so only if the Adviser believes that the risk of loss outweighs the opportunity to pursue its investment objective.
This prospectus describes the Fund's principal investment strategies, and the Fund will normally invest in the types of investments described in this prospectus. In addition to the securities and other investments and strategies described in this prospectus, the Fund also may invest, to a lesser extent, in other securities, use other strategies and engage in other investment practices that are not part of its principal investment strategies. These investments and strategies are described in detail in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") (for information on how to obtain a copy of the SAI see the back cover of this prospectus). Of course, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment goal.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund may buy and sell investments relatively often. Such a strategy often involves higher expenses, including brokerage commissions, and may increase the amount of capital gains (and, in particular, short-term gains) realized by the Fund. Shareholders must pay tax on such capital gains.
INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
A description of the Fund's policy and procedures with respect to the circumstances under which the Fund discloses its portfolio holdings is available in the SAI.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
GRT Capital Partners, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company formed in 2001, serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. The Adviser was formed by Gregory B. Fraser, Rudolph K. Kluiber and Timothy A. Krochuk, who have substantial experience in investment management, including the management of mutual funds. The Adviser currently provides investment management services to collective investment pools and other institutional clients. The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 50 Milk Street, 21st Floor, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. The Adviser manages and supervises the investment of the Fund's assets on a discretionary basis. As of September 30, 2010, the Adviser had approximately $XX million in assets under management.
For its services, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.95% based on the average daily net assets of the Fund. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its fees and reimburse expenses in order to keep total annual fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, acquired fund fees and expenses, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 1.30% of the Fund's average daily net assets. The Adviser intends to continue this expense limitation until further notice, but may discontinue all or a portion of its fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual fund operating expenses and 1.30% to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expenses reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period during which the agreement was
in place. For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Fund paid XX% of its average daily net assets in advisory fees to the Adviser.
A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the Fund's investment advisory agreement is available in the Fund's Annual Report to Shareholders dated July 31, 2010.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
The Fund is managed by a team of investment professionals headed by Rudolph K. Kluiber. Although Mr. Kluiber is primarily responsible for making investment decisions for the Fund, Gregory B. Fraser and Timothy A. Krochuk work closely with Mr. Kluiber and play an integral part in generating investment ideas and making recommendations for the Fund. The SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed and ownership of Fund shares.
RUDOLPH K. KLUIBER is a Managing Member of the Adviser and a Portfolio Manager. Mr. Kluiber has been with the Adviser since its inception in 2001 and is one of its founding members. He has been involved with investment management and research since September 1989. Since 1994, Mr. Kluiber has managed small cap value equity portfolios. Mr. Kluiber was the portfolio manager of the State Street Research Aurora Fund from the fund's inception in 1995 until 2001. At the time of his departure from State Street Research in 2001, Mr. Kluiber managed approximately $3 billion of assets in the Aurora Fund and other accounts. From 1989 to 1994, Mr. Kluiber was a high yield analyst, trader and assistant portfolio manager of the State Street Research High Yield Fund. Mr. Kluiber holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. He holds an AB in geology, Cum Laude, from Harvard College (1982) and an MBA from the Anderson School of the University of California Los Angeles (1989), where he was the recipient of the prestigious Carter award honoring the top 2% of the class. Mr. Kluiber is also a director of Steinway Musical Instruments, Inc.
GREGORY B. FRASER is a Managing Member of the Adviser and a Portfolio Manager.
Mr. Fraser has been with the Adviser since its inception in 2001 and is one of
its founding members. He has been involved with investment management and
research since December 1986. From 1991 to 2001, Mr. Fraser was the portfolio
manager of the Fidelity Diversified International Fund, which had over $6
billion in assets at the time of his departure. Prior to becoming a Portfolio
Manager at Fidelity Investments, Mr. Fraser was an analyst there from 1986 to
1991, where he followed a variety of industries, including textiles and apparel
manufacturers, shoe manufacturers, aerospace and defense companies, steel
manufacturers, hotel and gaming companies, conglomerates, and environmental
service companies. Mr. Fraser holds the Chartered Financial Analyst
designation. He holds an AB in economics, Magna Cum Laude, from Harvard College
(1982), where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. Mr. Fraser also holds an MBA,
with Distinction, from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
(1986).
TIMOTHY A. KROCHUK is a Managing Member of the Adviser and a Portfolio Manager. Mr. Krochuk has been with the Adviser since its inception in 2001 and is one of its founding members. He has been involved with investment management and research since 1992. From 1996 to 2001, Mr. Krochuk was the portfolio manager of the Fidelity TechnoQuant Growth Funds, which had approximately $100 million in assets at the time of his departure, and from 2000 to 2001 he was the portfolio manager of the Fidelity Small Cap Selector Fund, which had approximately $1 billion in assets at the time of his departure. From 1994 to 1996, Mr. Krochuk served as an analyst, and from 1992 to 1994 he served as an associate, at Fidelity Investments. In these roles, he used advanced quantitative techniques to study a variety of industries. Mr. Krochuk was responsible for the development, programming and implementation of investment models used in managing mutual funds. Mr. Krochuk holds the Chartered Financial Analyst
designation. He holds an AB in economics from Harvard College (1992). While at Harvard, Mr. Krochuk was also the President of TAK Programming Group Inc., a systems integration firm.
HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE DATA OF THE ADVISER
The following tables give the historical performance of two actual, fee-paying collective investment vehicles, and a separate account, referred to as a "Composite," managed by the Adviser that have investment objectives, policies, strategies and risks substantially similar to those of the Fund. The Composite does not reflect all of the firm's assets under management. The data illustrates the past performance of the adviser in managing substantially similar accounts. THE DATA DOES NOT REPRESENT OR INCLUDE THE PERFORMANCE OF THE FUND. Performance is historical and does not represent the future performance of the Fund or of the Adviser.
The manner in which the performance was calculated for the Composite differs from that of registered mutual funds such as the Fund. All returns presented were calculated on a total return basis and include all dividends and interest and realized and unrealized gains and losses. Except as otherwise noted, all returns reflect the payment of investment management fees, brokerage commissions, and execution costs paid by the accounts included in the composite, without taking into account federal or state income taxes. Custodial fees, if any, were not included in the calculations. Securities are valued as of trade-date. Accounts in the Composite were under continuous management from the inception of each account.
The currency used to express performance in the Composite is U.S. dollars. Because of variation in total expense levels, the Composite returns may not be reflective of performance in any one particular account. Therefore, the performance information shown below is not necessarily representative of the performance information that typically would be shown for a registered mutual fund.
The Accounts that are included in the Composite are not subject to the same type of expenses to which the Fund is subject and are not subject to the diversification requirements, specific tax restrictions, and investment limitations imposed by the federal securities and tax laws. Consequently, the performance results for the Composite could have been adversely affected if the accounts in the Composite were subject to the same federal securities and tax laws as the Fund. In addition, the accounts included in the Composite are not subject to the same adverse effects of cash inflows and outflows of investor money that a public mutual fund such as the Fund may be subject to, and accordingly the performance of the Composite may be higher than for a public mutual fund managed under the same investment strategy.
The investment results for the Composite presented below are not intended to predict or suggest the future returns of the Fund. The performance data shown below should not be considered a substitute for the Fund's own performance information. Investors should be aware that the use of a methodology different than that used below to calculate performance could result in different performance data.
THE ADVISER'S VALUE COMPOSITE CHARACTERISTICS(1)
(JANUARY 1, 2004 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2009)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TOTAL RETURN (NET OF INVESTMENT RUSSELL MANAGEMENT 2000 S&P 500 NUMBER OF TOTAL ASSETS OF INCLUDED PERCENT OF FIRM YEAR FEES) INDEX(2,3) INDEX(3,4) ACCOUNTS ACCOUNTS AT END OF PERIOD ASSETS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2009 XX% XX% XX% XX $XX XX% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2008 (34.89)% (33.85)% (37.00)% 3 $26,105,000 11.0% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2007 2.73% (1.58)% 5.50% 3 $46,691,000 5.7% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2006 25.56% 18.36% 15.79% 3 $40,180,000 4.6% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2005 9.16% 4.55% 4.90% 3 $29,450,000 5.1% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2004 15.19% 18.33% 10.88% 2 $16,567,000 7.3% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The calculation of returns is computed on a monthly basis starting with the commencement month for the three included accounts and returns are asset weighted. The accounts commenced in January 2004, October 2004 and March 2005. One account terminated in February, 2009. Actual results may vary depending on level of assets and fee schedule. Performance results include any dividend and interest income and are net of management fees (1.5% annually) and other expenses.
(2) The Russell 2000 Index is a widely recognized index which measures the performance of the small-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell 2000 Index is a subset of the Russell 3000[R] Index representing approximately 10% of the total market capitalization of that index. It includes approximately 2,000 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership.
(3) The comparative benchmark returns include interest and dividend income but do not include taxes, potential transaction costs or management fees.
(4) The S&P 500 Index is a widely-recognized index that measures the performance of 500 leading companies in leading industries of the U.S. economy.
PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES
This section tells you how to purchase, sell (sometimes called "redeem") and exchange Advisor Class Shares of the Fund.
Advisor Class Shares are for individual and retail investors.
HOW TO PURCHASE FUND SHARES
You will ordinarily submit your purchase orders through your securities broker or other financial intermediary through which you opened your shareholder account. To purchase shares directly from the Fund through its transfer agent, complete and send in the application. If you need an application or have questions, please call 1-877-GRT-4GRT.
All investments must be made by check or wire. All checks must be made payable in U.S. dollars and drawn on U.S. financial institutions. The Fund does not accept purchases made by third-party checks, credit cards, credit card checks, cash, traveler's checks, money orders or cashier's checks.
The Fund reserves the right to reject any specific purchase order for any reason. The Fund is not intended for excessive trading by shareholders in response to short-term market fluctuations. For more information about the Fund's policy on excessive trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
The Fund does not generally accept investments by non-U.S. persons. Non-U.S. persons may be permitted to invest in the Fund subject to the satisfaction of enhanced due diligence. Please contact the Fund for more information.
BY MAIL
You can open an account with the Fund by sending a check and your account application to the address below. You can add to an existing account by sending the Fund a check and, if possible, the "Invest by Mail" stub that accompanies your statement. Be sure your check identifies clearly your name, your account number and the Fund name.
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
GRT Value Fund
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
GRT Value Fund
c/o DST Systems, Inc.
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
BY WIRE
To open an account by wire, call 1-877-GRT-4GRT for details. To add to an existing account by wire, wire your money using the wiring instructions set forth below (be sure to include the Fund name and your account number).
WIRING INSTRUCTIONS
UMB Bank, N.A.
ABA # 101000695
GRT Value Fund
DDA Acct. # 9871063178
Ref: Fund number 3627/account number/account name
BY SYSTEMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN
If you have a checking or savings account with a bank, you may purchase shares automatically through regular deductions from your account.
You may not open an account via ACH. However, once you have established an account, you can set up an systematic investment plan by mailing a completed application to the Fund. These purchases can be made monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually in amounts of at least $100. To cancel or change a plan, write to the Funds at GRT Value Fund, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: GRT Value Fund, c/o DST Systems, Inc., 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105). Allow up to 15 days to create the plan and 3 days to cancel or change it.
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
You can open an account with the Fund with a minimum initial investment of $2,500 for Advisor Class Shares ($500 for individual retirement accounts ("IRA"s) and $250 for Spousal IRAs). Subsequent
investments must be at least $250. The Fund reserves the right to waive the minimum initial and subsequent investment amounts in its sole discretion.
FUND CODES
The Fund's reference information, which is listed below, will be helpful to you when you contact the Fund to purchase Advisor Class Shares, check daily net asset value per share ("NAV") or obtain additional information.
FUND NAME TRADING SYMBOL CUSIP FUND CODE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GRT Value Fund GRTVX 00766Y885 3627 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
HOW TO REDEEM FUND SHARES
BY MAIL
To redeem shares by mail, please send a letter to the Fund signed by all registered parties on the account specifying:
o The Fund name;
o The account number;
o The dollar amount or number of shares you wish to redeem;
o The account name(s); and
o The address to which redemption (sale) proceeds should be sent.
All registered shareholders must sign the letter in the exact name(s) in which their account is registered and must designate any special capacity in which they are registered.
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
GRT Value Fund
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
DST Systems, Inc.
c/o GRT Value Fund
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
If you would like to have your sale proceeds, including proceeds generated as a result of closing your account, sent to a third party or an address other than your own, please notify the Fund in writing. The Fund requires that signatures be guaranteed by a bank or member firm of a national securities exchange. Signature guarantees are for the protection of the shareholders. Before it grants a redemption request, the Fund may require a shareholder to furnish additional legal documents to ensure proper authorization.
BY TELEPHONE
You must first establish the telephone redemption privilege (and, if desired, the wire redemption privilege) by completing the appropriate sections of the account application. Call 1-877-GRT-4GRT to redeem your shares. Based on your instructions, the Fund will mail your proceeds to you or send them to your bank via wire or ACH.
BY SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN (VIA ACH)
If your account balance is at least $25,000, you may transfer as little as $100 per month from your account to another financial institution through a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (via ACH). To participate in this service, you must complete the appropriate sections of the account application and mail it to the Fund.
EXCHANGING SHARES
At no charge, you may exchange Advisor Class Shares of the Fund for Advisor Class Shares of another Fund in the GRT Funds complex by writing to or calling the Fund. You may only exchange shares between accounts with identical registrations (i.e., the same names and addresses). Distribution and shareholder servicing fees associated with Advisor Class Shares of other funds in the GRT Funds complex may differ. Please see the current prospectus for the other GRT Funds for more information.
The exchange privilege is not intended as a vehicle for short-term or excessive trading. The Fund may suspend or terminate your exchange privilege if you engage in a pattern of exchanges that is excessive, as determined in the sole discretion of the Fund. For more information about the Fund's policy on excessive trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
TRANSACTION POLICIES
CALCULATING YOUR SHARE PRICE
You may buy or sell shares of the Fund on any Business Day. Requests to buy and sell shares of the Fund are processed at a price equal to the NAV next computed after the Fund receives and accepts your order. The Fund calculates its NAV once each Business Day as of the close of normal trading on the NYSE (normally, 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time). To receive the NAV on any given day, the Fund or an authorized institution must receive your order in proper form (meaning that it is complete and contains all necessary information, and has all supporting documentation such as proper signature guarantees, IRA rollover forms, etc.) before the close of trading on the NYSE that day. Otherwise, you will receive the NAV that is calculated at the close of trading on the following Business Day. If the NYSE closes early -- such as on days in advance of certain holidays -- the Fund reserves the right to calculate NAV as of the earlier closing time. Shares will not be priced on days that the NYSE is closed for trading, including nationally observed holidays. Since securities that are traded on foreign exchanges may trade on days when the NYSE is closed, the value of the Fund may change on days when you are unable to purchase or redeem shares. The Fund will not accept orders that request a particular day or price for the transaction or any other special conditions.
The Fund calculates its NAV by adding the total value of its assets, subtracting its liabilities and then dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding. In calculating NAV, the Fund generally values its investment portfolio at market price. If market prices are not readily available or the Fund reasonably believes that they are unreliable, such as in the case of a security value that has been materially affected by events occurring after the relevant market closes, the Fund is required to price those securities at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Board. Pursuant to policies adopted by
and under the ultimate supervision of the Board, these methods are implemented through the Fund's Fair Value Committee, members of which are appointed by the Board. The Fund's determination of a security's fair value price often involves the consideration of a number of subjective factors, and is therefore subject to the unavoidable risk that the value that the Fund assigns to a security may be higher or lower than the security's value would be if a reliable market quotation for the security was readily available.
With respect to non-U.S. securities held by the Fund, the Fund may take factors influencing specific markets or issuers into consideration in determining the fair value of a non-U.S. security. International securities markets may be open on days when the U.S. markets are closed. In such cases, the value of any international securities owned by the Fund may be significantly affected on days when investors cannot buy or sell shares. In addition, due to the difference in times between the close of the international markets and the time the Fund prices its shares, the value the Fund assigns to securities may not be the same as the quoted or published prices of those securities on their primary markets or exchanges. In determining fair value prices, the Fund may consider the performance of securities on their primary exchanges, foreign currency appreciation/depreciation, or securities market movements in the United States, or other relevant information related to the securities.
There may be limited circumstances in which the Fund would price securities at fair value for stocks of U.S. companies that are traded on U.S. exchanges -- for example, if the exchange on which a portfolio security is principally traded closed early or if trading in a particular security was halted during the day and did not resume prior to the time the Fund calculated its NAV.
BUYING OR SELLING SHARES THROUGH A FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY
In addition to being able to buy and sell Fund shares directly from the Fund through its transfer agent, you may also purchase or sell shares of the Fund through accounts financial intermediaries such as brokers and other institutions that are authorized to place trades in Fund shares for their customers ("authorized institutions"). When you buy or sell Fund shares through certain authorized institutions (rather than directly from the Fund), you may have to transmit your purchase and sale requests to these authorized institutions at an earlier time for your transaction to become effective that day. This allows these authorized institutions time to process your requests and transmit them to the Fund. Your authorized institution is responsible for transmitting all purchase and sale requests, investment information, documentation and money to the Fund on time. If your authorized institution fails to do so, it may be responsible for any resulting fees or losses.
Certain authorized institutions, including certain broker-dealers and shareholder organizations, are authorized to act as agent on behalf of the Fund with respect to the receipt of purchase and sale requests for Fund shares. These requests are executed at the NAV next determined after the institution receives the request if transmitted to the Fund's transfer agent in accordance with the Fund's procedures and applicable law. To determine whether your authorized institution is authorized to act as an agent on behalf of the Fund with respect to purchase and redemption requests for Fund shares, you should contact them directly.
If you deal directly with an authorized institution, you will have to follow their procedures for transacting with the Fund. Your authorized institution may charge a fee for your purchase and/or redemption transactions. For more information about how to purchase or sell Fund shares through an authorized institution, you should contact your authorized institution directly.
PAYMENT OF REDEMPTION PROCEEDS
Redemption proceeds can be mailed to your account address, sent to your bank by ACH transfer or wired to your bank account (may be subject to a $15 fee). The Fund will pay for all shares redeemed within seven days after it receives a redemption request in proper form, meaning that it is complete and contains all necessary information, and has all supporting documentation (such as proper signature guarantees, IRA rollover forms, etc.). The Fund may require that signatures be guaranteed by a bank or member firm of a national securities exchange. For example, signature guarantees may be required if your address of record or banking instructions have recently been changed, or if you ask that the proceeds be sent to a different person or address. Signature guarantees are for the protection of shareholders. Before it grants a redemption request, the Fund may require a shareholder to furnish additional legal documents to ensure proper authorization. If you are selling shares that were recently purchased by check or through ACH, you will not receive your redemption proceeds until the check has cleared or the ACH transaction has been completed, which may take up to 15 days from the purchase date.
IN-KIND TRANSACTIONS
Under certain conditions and at the Fund's discretion, you may pay for shares of the Fund with securities instead of cash. The Fund generally pays sale (redemption) proceeds in cash. However, under unusual conditions that make the payment of cash unwise and for the protection of the Fund's remaining shareholders, the Fund might pay all or part of your redemption proceeds in securities with a market value equal to the redemption price (redemption in kind). It is highly unlikely that your shares would ever be redeemed in kind, but if they were you would have to pay transaction costs to sell the securities distributed to you, as well as taxes on any capital gains from the sale as with any redemption. In addition, you would continue to be subject to the risks of any market fluctuation in the value of the securities you receive in kind until they are sold.
INVOLUNTARY REDEMPTIONS OF YOUR SHARES
If your account balance drops below $1,000 because of redemptions, you may be required to sell your shares. The Fund will provide you at least 30 days' written notice to give you sufficient time to add to your account and avoid the sale of your shares.
SUSPENSION OF YOUR RIGHT TO SELL YOUR SHARES
The Fund may suspend your right to sell your shares during times when trading on the NYSE is restricted or halted, or otherwise as permitted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). More information about this is in the SAI.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
Purchasing, selling and exchanging Fund shares over the telephone is extremely convenient, but not without risk. Although the Fund has certain safeguards and procedures to confirm the identity of callers and the authenticity of instructions, the Fund is not responsible for any losses or costs incurred by following telephone instructions it reasonably believes to be genuine. If you or your financial institution transact with the Fund over the telephone, you will generally bear the risk of any loss.
DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES
The Fund has adopted a distribution plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Advisor Class Shares that allows the Fund to pay distribution fees for the sale and distribution of its shares, and for distributor services provided to shareholders. Because these fees are paid out of the Fund's assets continuously, over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges. The maximum annual distribution fee for Advisor Class Shares is 0.25% of the Fund's average daily net assets.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS
The Fund may compensate financial intermediaries for providing a variety of services to shareholders. Financial intermediaries include affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Fund, its service providers or their respective affiliates. This section and the following section briefly describe how financial intermediaries may be paid for providing these services.
The Fund generally pays financial intermediaries a fee that is based on the assets of the Fund that are attributable to investments by customers of the financial intermediary. The services for which financial intermediaries are compensated may include record-keeping, transaction processing for shareholders' accounts and other shareholder services. In addition to these payments, your financial intermediary may charge you account fees, transaction fees for buying or redeeming shares of the Fund, or other fees for servicing your account. Your financial intermediary should provide a schedule of its fees and services to you upon request. The Fund does not pay these service fees on shares purchased directly. In addition to payments made directly to financial intermediaries by the Fund, the Adviser or its affiliates may, at their own expense, pay financial intermediaries for these and other services to Fund shareholders, as described in the section below.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
From time to time, the Adviser and/or its affiliates, in their discretion, may make payments to certain affiliated or unaffiliated financial intermediaries to compensate them for the costs associated with distribution, marketing, administration and shareholder servicing support. These payments may be in addition to any Rule 12b-1 fees that are reflected in the fees and expenses listed in the fee table section of this prospectus. These payments are sometimes characterized as "revenue sharing" payments and are made out of the Adviser's and/or its affiliates' own legitimate profits or other resources, and are not paid by the Fund. A financial intermediary may provide these services with respect to Fund shares sold or held through programs such as retirement plans, qualified tuition programs, fund supermarkets, fee-based advisory or wrap fee programs, bank trust programs, and insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. In addition, financial intermediaries may receive payments for making shares of the Fund available to their customers or registered representatives, including providing the Fund with "shelf space," placing it on a preferred or recommended fund list, or promoting the Fund in certain sales programs that are sponsored by financial intermediaries. To the extent permitted by the SEC and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") rules and other applicable laws and regulations, the Adviser and/or its affiliates may pay or allow other promotional incentives or payments to financial intermediaries. For more information please see "Payments to Financial Intermediaries" in the Fund's SAI.
The level of payments to individual financial intermediaries varies in any given year and may be negotiated on the basis of sales of Fund shares, the amount of Fund assets serviced by the financial intermediary or the quality of the financial intermediary's relationship with the Adviser and/or its affiliates. These payments may be more or less than the payments received by the financial intermediaries from other mutual funds and may influence a financial intermediary to favor the sales of certain funds or share classes over others. In certain instances, the payments could be significant and may cause a conflict of interest for your financial intermediary. Any such payments will not change the net asset value or price of the Fund's shares. Please contact your financial intermediary for information about any payments it may receive in connection with the sale of Fund shares or the provision of services to Fund shareholders, as well as information about any fees and/or commissions it charges.
OTHER POLICIES
EXCESSIVE TRADING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Fund is intended for long-term investment purposes only and discourages shareholders from engaging in "market timing" or other types of excessive short-term trading. This frequent trading into and out of the Fund may present risks to the Fund's long-term shareholders, and could adversely affect shareholder returns. The risks posed by frequent trading include interfering with the efficient implementation of the Fund's investment strategies, triggering the recognition of taxable gains and losses on the sale of Fund investments, requiring the Fund to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemption requests, and experiencing increased transaction costs. Because the Fund invests in small-cap securities, which often trade in lower volumes and may be less liquid, the Fund may be more susceptible to the risks posed by frequent trading because frequent transactions in the Fund's shares may have a greater impact on the market prices of these types of securities. In addition, because the Fund may invest in foreign securities traded primarily on markets that close prior to the time the Fund determines its NAV, the risks posed by frequent trading may have a greater potential to dilute the value of Fund shares held by long-term shareholders than a fund investing exclusively in U.S. securities.
In instances where a significant event that affects the value of one or more foreign securities held by the Fund takes place after the close of the primary foreign market, but before the time that the Fund determines its NAV, certain investors may seek to take advantage of the fact that there will be a delay in the adjustment of the market price for a security caused by this event until the foreign market reopens (sometimes referred to as "price" or "time zone" arbitrage). Shareholders who attempt this type of arbitrage may dilute the value of the Fund's shares if the price of the Fund's foreign securities do not reflect their fair value. Although the Fund has procedures designed to determine the fair value of foreign securities for purposes of calculating its NAV when such an event has occurred, fair value pricing, because it involves judgments which are inherently subjective, may not always eliminate the risk of price arbitrage.
For more information on how the Fund uses fair value pricing, see "Calculating Your Share Price." The Fund's service providers will take steps reasonably designed to detect and deter frequent trading by shareholders pursuant to the Fund's policies and procedures described in this prospectus and approved by the Fund's Board. For purposes of applying these policies, the Fund's service providers may consider the trading history of accounts under common ownership or control. The Fund's policies and procedures include:
o Shareholders are restricted from making more than one "round trip," including exchanges, into or out of the Fund within any 60-day period. If, to the knowledge of the Fund, a shareholder exceeds this amount, the Fund and/or its service providers may, at their discretion, reject any additional
purchase or exchange orders. The Fund defines a "round trip" as a purchase into the Fund by a shareholder, followed by a subsequent redemption out of the Fund of an amount the Adviser reasonably believes would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
o The Fund reserves the right to reject any purchase request by any investor or group of investors for any reason without prior notice, including, in particular, if the Fund or its Adviser reasonably believes that the trading activity would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
o A redemption fee of 2.00% of the value of the shares sold will be imposed on shares redeemed within 14 days or less after their date of purchase (subject to certain exceptions as discussed below in "Redemption Fees").
The Fund and/or its service providers seek to apply these policies to the best of their abilities uniformly and in a manner they believe is consistent with the interests of the Fund's long-term shareholders. The Fund does not knowingly accommodate frequent purchases and redemptions by Fund shareholders. Although these policies are designed to deter frequent trading, none of these measures alone nor all of them taken together eliminate the possibility that frequent trading in the Fund will occur. Systematic purchases and redemptions are exempt from these policies.
Financial intermediaries (such as investment advisers and broker-dealers) often establish omnibus accounts in the Fund for their customers through which transactions are placed. In accordance with Rule 22c-2 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), the Fund has entered into information sharing agreements with certain financial intermediaries. Under these agreements, a financial intermediary is obligated to: (1) enforce during the term of the agreement, the Fund's, or in certain instances, the financial intermediary's, market-timing policy; (2) furnish the Fund, upon its request, with information regarding customer trading activities in shares of the Fund; and (3) enforce the Fund's, or in certain instances, the financial intermediary's, market-timing policy with respect to customers identified by the Fund as having engaged in market timing. When information regarding transactions in the Fund's shares is requested by the Fund and such information is in the possession of a person that is itself a financial intermediary to a financial intermediary (an "indirect intermediary"), any financial intermediary with whom the Fund has an information sharing agreement is obligated to obtain transaction information from the indirect intermediary or, if directed by the Fund, to restrict or prohibit the indirect intermediary from purchasing shares of the Fund on behalf of other persons. The Fund may also elect to follow the frequent trading policies of its financial intermediaries, where the policies and systems considerations make it appropriate. Please contact your financial intermediary for more information.
REDEMPTION FEE
In an effort to discourage short-term trading and defray costs incurred by shareholders as a result of such trading, the Fund charges a 2.00% redemption fee on redemptions of shares that have been held for less than 14 days. The fee is deducted from the sale proceeds and cannot be paid separately, and any proceeds of the fee are credited to the assets of the Fund. The fee does not apply to shares purchased with reinvested dividends or distributions. In determining how long shares of a Fund have been held, the Fund assumes that shares held by the investor the longest period of time will be sold first. The redemption fee is applicable to Fund shares purchased either directly or through a financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer. Transactions through financial intermediaries typically are placed with the Fund on an omnibus basis and include both purchase and sale transactions placed on behalf of multiple investors. The Fund requests that financial intermediaries assess the redemption fee on customer accounts and collect and remit the proceeds to the Fund. However, the Fund recognizes that due to operational requirements,
the intermediaries' methods for tracking and calculating the fee may be inadequate or differ in some respects from the Fund.
The Fund reserves the right to waive the redemption fee in its discretion where it believes such waiver is in the best interests of the Fund, including certain categories of redemptions that the Fund reasonably believes may not raise frequent trading or market timing concerns. These categories include, but are not limited to, the following: (i) participants in certain group retirement plans whose processing systems are incapable of properly applying the redemption fee to underlying shareholders; (ii) redemptions resulting from certain transfers upon the death of a shareholder; (iii) redemptions by certain pension plans as required by law or by regulatory authorities; (iv) failed verifications; (v) involuntary redemptions; and (vi) retirement loans and withdrawals. The redemption fee will not be applied on redemptions made within the 14 calendar day period because the account does not meet the applicable minimum account size or because the Fund is unable to verify the accountholder's identity within a reasonable time after the account is opened.
CUSTOMER IDENTIFICATION AND VERIFICATION
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account.
What this means to you: When you open an account, the Fund will ask your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow the Fund to identify you. This information is subject to verification to ensure the identity of all persons opening a mutual fund account.
The Fund is required by law to reject your new account application if the required identifying information is not provided.
In certain instances, the Fund is required to collect documents to fulfill its legal obligation. Documents provided in connection with your application will be used solely to establish and verify a customer's identity.
Attempts to collect the missing information required on the application will be performed by either contacting you or, if applicable, your broker. If this information cannot be obtained within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Fund, your application will be rejected.
Upon receipt of your application in proper form (or upon receipt of all identifying information required on the application), your investment will be accepted and your order will be processed at the next-determined NAV per share.
The Fund reserves the right to close or liquidate your account at the NAV next determined and remit proceeds to you via check if it is unable to verify your identity. Attempts to verify your identity will be performed within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Fund. Further, the Fund reserves the right to hold your proceeds until your original check clears the bank, which may take up to 15 days from the date of purchase. In such an instance, you may be subject to a gain or loss on Fund shares and will be subject to corresponding tax implications.
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING PROGRAM
Customer identification and verification is part of the Fund's overall obligation to deter money laundering under federal law. The Fund has adopted an anti-money laundering compliance program designed to
prevent the Fund from being used for money laundering or the financing of illegal activities. In this regard, the Fund reserves the right to: (i) refuse, cancel or rescind any purchase or exchange order; (ii) freeze any account and/or suspend account services; or (iii) involuntarily close your account in cases of threatening conduct or suspected fraudulent or illegal activity. These actions will be taken when, in the sole discretion of Fund management, they are deemed to be in the best interest of the Fund or in cases when the Fund is requested or compelled to do so by governmental or law enforcement authority. If your account is closed at the request of governmental or law enforcement authority, you may not receive proceeds of the redemption if the Fund is required to withhold such proceeds.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
The Fund distributes its net investment income and makes distributions of its net realized capital gains, if any, at least annually. If you own Fund shares on the Fund's record date, you will be entitled to receive the distribution.
You will receive dividends and distributions in the form of additional Fund shares unless you elect to receive payment in cash. To elect cash payment, you must notify the Fund in writing prior to the date of the distribution. Your election will be effective for dividends and distributions paid after the Fund receives your written notice. To cancel your election, simply send the Fund written notice.
TAXES
PLEASE CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISOR REGARDING YOUR SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ABOUT FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL INCOME TAXES. The following is a summary of the federal income tax consequences of investing in the Fund. This summary does not apply to shares held in an individual retirement account or other tax-qualified plan, which are not subject to current tax. Transactions relating to shares held in such accounts may, however, be taxable at some time in the future. This summary is based on current tax laws, which may change.
The Fund will distribute substantially all of its net investment income and its net realized capital gains, if any. The dividends and distributions you receive, whether in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the Fund may be subject to federal, state, and local taxation, depending upon your tax situation. Income distributions, including distributions of net short-term capital gains but excluding distributions of qualified dividend income, are generally taxable at ordinary income tax rates. Capital gains distributions and distributions that are designated by the Fund as qualified dividend income are generally taxable at the rates applicable to long-term capital gains. Once a year the Fund will send you a statement showing the types and total amount of distributions you received during the previous year. You should note that if you purchase shares just before a distribution, the purchase price would reflect the amount of the upcoming distribution. In this case, you would be taxed on the entire amount of the distribution received, even though, as an economic matter, the distribution simply constitutes a return of your investment. This is known as "buying a dividend" and should be avoided by taxable investors. Call 1-877-GRT-4GRT to find out when the Fund expects to make a distribution to shareholders.
Each sale of shares of the Fund may be a taxable event. A sale may result in a capital gain or loss to you. For tax purposes, an exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different fund is the same as a sale. The gain or loss generally will be treated as short term if you held the shares 12 months or less, long term if you held the shares for longer. For tax purposes, an exchange of your Fund shares for shares of a different fund is the same as a sale.
To the extent that the Fund invests in foreign securities, it may be subject to foreign withholding taxes with respect to dividends or interest the Fund received from sources in foreign countries. The Fund may elect to treat some of those taxes as a distribution to shareholders, which would allow shareholders to offset some of their U.S. federal income tax.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TAXES IS IN THE SAI.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The table that follows presents performance information about the Fund. The information is intended to help you understand the Fund's financial performance for the period of the Fund's operations. Some of this information reflects financial information for a single Fund share. The total return in the table represents the rate that you would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the Fund, assuming you reinvested all of your dividends and distributions. The information provided below has been derived from the Fund's financial statements, which have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP whose report, along with the Fund's financial statements, is included in the Fund's Annual Report. The report of Ernst & Young LLP, along with the Fund's financial statements and related notes, appears in the Annual Report that accompanies the Statement of Additional Information. You can obtain the Annual Report, which contains more performance information, at no charge by calling [1-877-GRT-4GRT].
YEAR ENDED PERIOD ENDED JULY 31, JULY 31, -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GRT VALUE FUND 2010 2009 2008(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $XX $9.62 $10.00 --- ------ ------- Income from Operations: Net Investment Income(2) XX 0.01 0.01 Net Realized and Unrealized Gain on Investments XX (1.68) (0.38) --- ------ ------- Total From Operations XX (1.67) (0.37) --- ------ ------- Dividends and Distributions from: Net Investment Income XX (0.01) (0.01) --- ------ ------- Net Asset Value, End of Period $XX $7.94 $9.62 === ====== ======= Total Return(3) XX% (17.35)% (3.67)% === ====== ======= Ratios and Supplemental Data Net Assets, End of Period (Thousands) $XX $1,675 $1,732 Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets XX% 1.30%(4) (including waivers and reimbursements) 1.30% Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets XX% 22.95% 28.03%(4) (excluding waivers and reimbursements) Ratio of Net Investment Income to Average Net XX% 0.14 0.46%(4) Assets Portfolio Turnover Rate XX% 95% 4%(5) |
(1) Commenced operations on May 1, 2008.
(2) Per share data calculated using average shares method.
(3) Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized. Total return wuold have been lower had certain expenses not been waived and assumed by the Adviser during the period. The return shown does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(4) Annualized
(5) Portfolio turnover rate is for the period indicated and has not been annualized.
GRT VALUE FUND
PRIVACY NOTICE
The Fund recognizes and respects the privacy concerns of its customers. The Fund collects non-public personal information about you in the course of doing business with shareholders and investors. "Non-public personal information" is personally identifiable financial information about you. For example, it includes information regarding your social security number, account balance, bank account information and purchase and redemption history.
THE FUND COLLECTS THIS INFORMATION FROM THE FOLLOWING SOURCES
o Information we receive from you on applications or other forms;
o Information about your transactions with us and our service providers, or others;
o Information we receive from consumer reporting agencies (including credit bureaus).
WHAT INFORMATION THE FUND DISCLOSES AND TO WHOM THE FUND DISCLOSES INFORMATION.
The Fund only discloses non-public personal information the Fund collects about shareholders as permitted by law. For example, the Fund may disclose non-public personal information about shareholders to non-affiliated third parties:
o To government entities, in response to subpoenas or to comply with laws or regulations.
o When you, the customer, direct the Fund to do so or consent to the disclosure.
o To companies that perform necessary services for the Fund, such as data processing companies that the Fund uses to process your transactions or maintain your account.
o To protect against fraud, or to collect unpaid debts.
INFORMATION ABOUT FORMER CUSTOMERS.
If you decide to close your account(s) or become an inactive customer, we will adhere to the privacy policies and practices described in this notice.
HOW THE FUND SAFEGUARDS INFORMATION.
The Fund conducts its business affairs through trustees, officers, and third parties that provide services pursuant to agreements with the Fund. We restrict access to your personal and account information to those persons who need to know that information in order to provide services to you. The Fund or its service providers maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards that comply with federal standards to guard your non-public personal information.
CUSTOMERS OF OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS.
In the event that you hold shares of the Fund through a financial intermediary, including, but not limited to, a broker-dealer, bank or trust company, the privacy policy of your financial intermediary will govern how your non-public personal information will be shared with non-affiliated third parties by that entity.
QUESTIONS.
Should you have any questions regarding the Fund's Privacy Policy, please contact the GRT Value Fund at 1-877-GRT-4GRT.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
GRT VALUE FUND
INVESTMENT ADVISER
GRT Capital Partners, L.L.C.
50 Milk Street, 21st Floor
Boston, Massachusetts 02109
DISTRIBUTOR
SEI Investments Distribution Co.
One Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND IS AVAILABLE, WITHOUT CHARGE, THROUGH THE FOLLOWING:
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ("SAI"): The SAI includes detailed information about the Fund and The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II. The SAI is on file with the SEC and is incorporated by reference into this prospectus. This means that the SAI, for legal purposes, is a part of this prospectus.
ANNUAL AND SEMI-ANNUAL REPORTS: These reports contain information from the Fund's portfolio manager about investment strategies and recent market conditions and trends and their impact on Fund performance. The reports also contain more information about the Fund's holdings and detailed financial information about the Fund.
TO OBTAIN AN SAI, ANNUAL OR SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT, OR MORE INFORMATION:
BY TELEPHONE: 1-877-GRT-4GRT (1-877-478-4478)
BY MAIL: GRT Value Fund P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 BY INTERNET: www.grtcapital.com FROM THE SEC: You can also obtain the SAI, Annual and Semi-Annual Report as |
well as other information about The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II, from the
EDGAR Database on the SEC's website at: http://www.sec.gov. You may review and
copy documents at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, DC (for
information on the operation of the Public Reference Room, call 202-942-8090).
You may request documents by mail from the SEC, upon payment of a duplicating
fee, by writing to: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Public Reference
Section, Washington, DC 20549. You may also obtain this information, upon
payment of a duplicating fee, by e-mailing the SEC at the following address:
publicinfo@sec.gov.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II'S INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT REGISTRATION NUMBER
IS 811-07102.
[INSERT CODE]
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
PROSPECTUS
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
REAVES SELECT RESEARCH FUND
TICKER SYMBOL: RSRFX
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
W.H. REAVES & CO., INC.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS
This prospectus has been arranged into different sections so that you can easily review this important information. For detailed information about the Fund, please see:
Page INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ...................................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES .................................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ........................................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ........................................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................................XX PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES .......................................XX TAX INFORMATION ........................................................XX PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES .....................................................XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK ............................................XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS ................................XX INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ...................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER .....................................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .....................................................XX HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE DATA OF THE ADVISER .............................XX PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES .....................................XX OTHER POLICIES .........................................................XX SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS .....................................XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ...................................XX DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS ............................................XX TAXES ..................................................................XX FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS ...................................................XX HOW TO OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND ..................Back Cover |
REAVES SELECT RESEARCH FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Reaves Select Research Fund (the "Fund") seeks total return from income and capital growth.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT)
Institutional Class Shares --- ----------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- Management Fees 0.75% --------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The Fund invests in securities of domestic and foreign public utility and energy companies. These include companies involved to a significant extent in providing products, services or equipment for: (i) the generation, transmission or distribution of electricity, gas or water; or (ii) telecommunications activities ("Utilities" or the "Utilities Industry") as well as in companies involved in the discovery, development, production, generation, transmission, refinement, measurement, trading, marketing or distribution of energy ("Energy" or the "Energy Industry"). The Fund may also invest in master limited partnerships involving such companies. The Fund has adopted a policy to concentrate its investments (invest at least 25% of its assets) in companies involved to a significant extent in the Utilities and Energy Industries. The Fund considers a company to be involved to a significant extent in the Utilities Industry and/or the Energy Industry if at least 50% of its assets, gross income or profits are committed to or derived from activities in the industries described above. The Fund may also invest in municipal utility companies, including rural electric cooperatives and similar organizations. The Fund may utilize an active trading approach.
In selecting investments for the Fund, W.H. Reaves & Co., Inc. (the "Adviser") seeks to identify securities that offer the potential for positive total return during a three to five year period, based on, among other factors, a company's market capitalization, balance sheet strength, expected dividends, and current and expected earnings and cash flow. The Adviser may sell a holding if its prospects for growth and income decline or when the Adviser deems it to be an unattractive investment.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risk factors affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
To the extent that the Fund's investments are focused in issuers conducting business in the Utilities Industry and/or the Energy Industry, the Fund is subject to the risk that legislative or regulatory changes, adverse market conditions and/or increased competition will negatively affect these industries. Fluctuations in the value of securities of companies in the Utilities Industry and/or the Energy Industry depend to a large extent on the price and supply of energy fuels. Many utility companies historically have been subject to risks of increases in fuel, power and other operating costs, high interest costs on borrowings needed for capital improvement programs and costs associated with compliance with and changes in environmental and other governmental regulations.
Although the Fund is diversified, its investment strategy often results in a relatively focused portfolio of stocks of companies that the Adviser believes hold the most total return potential. As a result, poor performance or adverse economic events affecting one or more of these companies could have a greater impact on the Fund than it would on another mutual fund with a broader range of investments.
The small- and medium-sized companies the Fund invests in may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and medium-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-cap stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over-the-counter or listed on an exchange.
Investing in foreign companies poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These events will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from and in response to events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country.
Master Limited Partnerships ("MLPs") are limited partnerships in which the ownership units are publicly traded. MLP units are registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and are freely traded on a securities exchange or in the over-the-counter market. MLPs often own several properties or businesses (or own interests) that are related to oil and gas industries or other natural resources, but they also may finance other projects. To the extent that an MLP's interests are all in a particular industry, the MLP will be negatively impacted by economic events adversely impacting that industry. Generally, a MLP is operated under the supervision of one or more managing general partners. Limited partners are not involved in the day-to-day management of the partnership. The risks of investing in a MLP are generally those involved in investing in a partnership as opposed to a corporation. For example, state law governing partnerships is often less restrictive than state law governing corporations. Accordingly, there may be fewer protections afforded to investors in a MLP than investors in a corporation; for example, investors in MLPs may have limited voting rights or be liable under certain circumstances for amounts greater than the amount of their investment. In addition, MLPs may be subject to state taxation in certain jurisdictions which will have the effect of reducing the amount of income paid by the MLP to its investors.
Because of its active trading strategy, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate and transaction costs will generally be higher than those of funds with less active trading strategies, which may lower fund performance and increase the likelihood of capital gains distributions.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Institutional Class Shares of the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average annual total returns for 1 and 5 years and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available by calling 1-866-342-7058.
BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's Institutional Class Shares' performance from 1/1/2010 to 9/30/2010 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
[Returns after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares may be higher than before-tax returns when a net capital loss occurs upon the redemption of Fund shares.]
Since Inception Institutional Class Shares 1 Year 5 Years (December 22, 2004) ------------------------------------------------------------------ ------ ------- ------------------ Fund Returns Before Taxes XX% XX% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------ ------ ------- ------------------- Fund Returns After Taxes on Distributions XX% XX% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------ ------ ------- ------------------- Fund Returns After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund XX% XX% XX% Shares ------------------------------------------------------------------ ------ ------- ------------------- S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) XX% XX% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------ ------ ------- ------------------- S&P 500 Utilities Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses XX% XX% XX% or taxes) ------------------------------------------------------------------ ------ ------- ------------------- |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
W.H. Reaves & Co., Inc.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
William A. Ferer, President and Director of Research, has co-managed the Fund since its inception.
Ronald J. Sorenson, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, has co-managed the Fund since its inception.
PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES
To purchase Institutional Class Shares of the Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $1,000,000. There is no minimum for subsequent investments.
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business (a "Business Day") by contacting the Fund directly by mail at Reaves Select Research Fund, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: DST Systems, Inc., c/o Reaves Select Research Fund, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105) or telephone at 1-866-342-7058.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
If you purchase shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary's web site for more information.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK
Investing in the Fund involves risk and there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its goal. The Adviser's judgments about the markets, the economy, or companies may not anticipate actual market movements, economic conditions or company performance, and these judgments may affect the return on your investment. In fact, no matter how good a job the Adviser does, you could lose money on your investment in the Fund, just as you could with similar investments.
The value of your investment in the Fund is based on the value of the securities the Fund holds. These prices change daily due to economic and other events that affect particular companies and other issuers. These price movements, sometimes called volatility, may be greater or lesser depending on the types of securities the Fund owns and the markets in which they trade. The effect on the Fund of a change in the value of a single security will depend on how widely the Fund diversifies its holdings.
EQUITY RISK -- Equity securities include publicly and privately issued equity securities, common and preferred stocks, warrants, rights to subscribe to common stock and convertible securities, interests in master limited partnerships, as well as instruments that attempt to track the price movement of equity indices. Investments in equity securities and equity derivatives in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. The value of securities convertible into equity securities, such as warrants or convertible debt, is also affected by prevailing interest rates, the credit quality of the issuer and any call provision. Fluctuations in the value of equity securities in which a mutual fund invests will cause the fund's net asset value ("NAV") to fluctuate. An investment in a portfolio of equity securities may be more suitable for long-term investors who can bear the risk of these share price fluctuations.
FOREIGN SECURITY RISK -- Investments in securities of foreign companies or governments can be more volatile than investments in U.S. companies or governments. Diplomatic, political, or economic developments, including nationalization or appropriation, could affect investments in foreign companies. Foreign securities markets generally have less trading volume and less liquidity than U.S. markets. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies, and of dividends from such securities, can change significantly when foreign currencies strengthen or weaken relative to the U.S. dollar. Foreign companies or governments generally are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to domestic U.S. companies or governments. Transaction costs are generally higher than those in the United States and expenses for custodial arrangements of foreign securities may be somewhat greater than typical expenses for custodial arrangements of similar U.S. securities. Some foreign governments levy withholding taxes against dividend and interest income. Although in some countries a portion of these taxes are recoverable, the non-recovered portion will reduce the income received from the securities comprising the portfolio.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS
The investments and strategies described in this prospectus are those that the Fund uses under normal conditions. During unusual economic or market conditions, or for temporary defensive or liquidity purposes, the Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in money market instruments or other cash equivalents that would not ordinarily be consistent with its investment objective. If the Fund invests in this manner, it may not achieve its investment objective. The Fund will do so only if the Adviser believes that the risk of loss outweighs the opportunity to pursue its investment objective.
This prospectus describes the Fund's principal investment strategies, and the Fund will normally invest in the types of securities described in this prospectus. In addition to the securities and other investments and strategies described in this prospectus, the Fund also may invest, to a lesser extent, in other securities, use other strategies and engage in other investment practices that are not part of its principal investment strategy. These investments and strategies are described in detail in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") (for information on how to obtain a copy of the SAI see the back cover of this prospectus). Of course, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment goal.
INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The Fund generally publishes a complete list of its portfolio holdings on a monthly basis, as of the end of the previous month. For example, the Fund's investments as of the end of January would ordinarily be published at the end of February. The Fund also publishes a list of its ten largest portfolio holdings, and the percentage of the Fund's assets that each of these holdings represents, on a monthly basis, ten (10) days after the end of the month. The portfolio holdings information described above can be found on the internet at http://aicfundholdings.com/reaves. The information will generally remain available until replaced by new portfolio holdings information as described above. The Adviser may exclude any portion of the Fund's portfolio holdings from publication when deemed to be in the best interest of the Fund. Please consult the Fund's SAI for a full description of the policies and procedures that govern disclosure of the Fund's portfolio holdings.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
The Adviser makes investment decisions for the Fund and continuously reviews, supervises and administers the Fund's investment program. The Trust's Board of Trustees supervises the Adviser and establishes policies that the Adviser must follow in its management activities.
W.H. Reaves & Co., Inc., founded in 1961, serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 10 Exchange Place, 18th Floor, Jersey City, New Jersey 07302. As of September 30, 2010, the Adviser had approximately $XX billion in assets under management.
For its services, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.75% based on the average daily net assets of the Fund. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its fees and reimburse expenses in order to keep total annual fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, acquired fund fees and expenses and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 1.30% of the Fund's Institutional Class Shares' average daily net assets. The Adviser intends to continue this expense limitation until further notice, but may discontinue all or a portion of its fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual fund operating expenses and 1.30% to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expense reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period during which the agreement was in place. For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Fund paid XX% of its average daily net assets in advisory fees to the Adviser.
A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the Fund's investment advisory agreement is available in the Fund's Annual Report to Shareholders for the period ended July 31, 2010.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
The Fund is co-managed by a team of investment professionals who are jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund. The SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed and ownership of Fund shares.
Mr. William A. Ferer has served as President and Director of Research of the Adviser since February 2003, after serving as Executive Vice President from November 1997 to February 2003 and Vice President from July 1987 to November 1997. Mr. Ferer has also served as a portfolio manager and analyst for the Adviser since 1987. He has co-managed the Fund since its inception. Mr. Ferer has more than 38 years of investment experience.
Mr. Ronald J. Sorenson has served as Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Adviser since September 2005 and as Chief Investment Officer of the Adviser since November 2002. Previously, he served as Executive Vice President of the Adviser from November 2002 to September 2005 and as Vice President of the Adviser from December 1991 to November 2002. He has co-managed the Fund since its inception. Mr. Sorenson has more than 27 years of investment experience.
The Fund's Statement of Additional Information provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed, and ownership of Fund shares.
HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE DATA OF THE ADVISER
The following table gives the historical performance of a composite of actual, fee-paying, discretionary equity ERISA accounts (including designated cash reserves) with assets over $1 million ("Equity Accounts"), managed by the Adviser since 1978, that have investment objectives, policies, strategies, and risks substantially similar to those of the Fund. Up to 15% of the composite portfolio may, at the portfolio managers' discretion, be invested in assets outside of the benchmark. The composite does not reflect all of the Adviser's assets under management. A complete list and description of the Adviser's composites are available upon request. The data illustrates the past performance of the Adviser in managing substantially similar accounts. The data does not represent the performance of the Fund. Performance is historical and does not represent the future performance of the Fund or of the Adviser.
The manner in which the performance was calculated for the composite differs from that of a registered mutual fund such as the Fund. This composite performance data was calculated in accordance with the standards of the Chartered Financial Analyst Institute (CFAI).(1) All returns presented were calculated on a total return basis and include all dividends and interest, accrued income, and realized and unrealized gains and losses. Except as otherwise noted, all returns reflect the payment of investment management fees, brokerage commissions, and execution costs paid by the Equity Accounts, without taking into account federal or state income taxes. Custodial fees, if any, were not included in the calculation. Securities transactions were accounted for on the trade date, and accrual accounting was utilized. Cash and equivalents were included in the performance returns. The composite's dollar-weighted returns were calculated on a time-weighted basis, stated in U.S. dollars. Therefore, the performance information shown below is not necessarily representative of the performance information that typically would be shown for a registered mutual fund.
The Equity Accounts that are included in the composite are not subject to the same type of expenses to which the Fund is subject and are not subject to the diversification requirements, specific tax restrictions, and investment limitations imposed by the federal securities and tax laws. Consequently, the performance
results for the composite could have been adversely affected if the Equity Accounts in the composite were subject to the federal securities and tax laws.
The investment results for the Adviser's composite presented below are not intended to predict or suggest the future returns of the Fund. The Fund's performance record can be found on page [XX]. The performance data shown below should not be considered a substitute for the Fund's own performance information. Investors should be aware that the use of a methodology different than that used below to calculate performance could result in different performance data.
ADVISER'S COMPOSITE TIME PERIOD (EQUITY AND CASH) S&P 500(2) S&P UTILITIES INDEX(3) ----------- ----------- ----------------------------- ------------------- ------------------------ Average Annual Returns (as of 12/31/09) --------------------------------------- ------------- ------------------- ------------------------ 1 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 3 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- ------------------------ 5 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- ------------------------ 10 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- ------------------------ 15 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- ------------------------ 20 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- ------------------------ 1/1/78 -- 12/31/09(4) XX% XX% XX% ----------------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- ------------------------ Cumulative Returns ----------------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- ------------------------ 1/1/78 -- 12/31/09(4) XX% XX% XX% ----------------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- ------------------------ |
THE ADVISER'S COMPOSITE CHARACTERISTICS
(THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2009)
--------------------------------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- NO. OF TOTAL AS A % OF TOTAL MANAGED STANDARD YEAR ACCOUNTS (IN $ MIL) TOTAL MANAGED (IN $ MIL) DEVIATION(5) ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ----------------------- -------------------- 1978 1 $1.4 100% $1.4 0.00% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1979 1 1.9 100% 1.9 0.00% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1980 1 2.6 100% 2.6 0.00% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1981 6 34.5 100% 34.5 5.05% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1982 8 59.1 91% 64.9 1.46% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1983 11 99.4 97% 102.5 0.90% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1984 13 214.7 98% 219.1 1.00% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1985 17 382.4 90% 424.9 0.77% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1986 18 510.1 81% 629.8 0.83% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1987 19 513.8 80% 642.3 0.41% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1988 20 580.9 81% 717.2 0.27% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1989 22 871.3 79% 1,012.9 0.65% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1990 20 760.2 67% 1,134.6 0.56% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1991 22 808.9 69% 1,172.3 0.43% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1992 19 735.8 72% 1,021.9 1.07% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1993 19 810.0 72% 1,125.0 0.34% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1994 18 741.3 76% 972.0 0.52% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1995 15 814.3 68% 1,190.5 0.33% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1996 15 825.3 69% 1,192.8 0.30% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1997 13 672.6 61% 1,098.0 0.58% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1998 11 698.9 59% 1,205.9 0.35% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1999 11 676.4 59% 1,142.6 0.77% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- |
NO. OF TOTAL AS A % OF TOTAL MANAGED STANDARD YEAR ACCOUNTS (IN $ MIL) TOTAL MANAGED (IN $ MIL) DEVIATION(5) ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2000 10 789.6 59% 1,337.5 1.17% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2001 10 689.0 59% 1,174.6 0.85% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2002 10 499.4 54% 931.3 1.04% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2003 10 386.5 41% 932.9 0.68% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2004 8 420.9 24% 1,726.9 0.56% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2005 8 451.0 24% 1,875.5 0.49% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2006 8 546.0 23% 2,414.0 0.16% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2007 10 637.9 22% 2,904.5 0.24% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2008 10 359.5 19% 1,859.6 1.12% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2009 XX XX XX% XX XX% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- |
ANNUAL RETURNS
--------------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- ADVISER'S COMPOSITE YEAR (EQUITY AND CASH) S&P 500(2) S&P UTILITIES(3) ------ -------- ----------------------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1978 (1.3)% 6.6% (3.7)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1979 30.1% 18.7% 13.5% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1980 34.5% 32.5% 15.2% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1981 11.7% (4.9)% 11.9% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1982 13.0% 21.4% 26.4% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1983 34.1% 22.4% 20.1% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1984 25.6% 6.1% 25.9% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1985 34.9% 31.6% 32.8% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1986 26.2% 18.6% 28.4% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1987 (0.4)% 5.1% (2.9)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1988 15.0% 16.1% 18.2% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1989 38.7% 31.5% 47.0% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1990 (2.4)% (3.1)% (2.6)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1991 12.1% 30.5% 14.5% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1992 12.1% 7.6% 8.3% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1993 15.8% 10.1% 14.4% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1994 (3.3)% 1.3% (7.9)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1995 34.7% 37.6% 41.1% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1996 10.1% 23.0% 3.1% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1997 28.3% 33.4% 24.7% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1998 18.4% 28.6% 14.8% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1999 2.8% 21.0% (8.9)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2000 25.8% (9.1)% 59.7% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2001 (9.5)% (11.9)% (30.4)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2002 (19.3)% (22.1)% (30.0)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2003 19.4% 28.7% 26.3% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2004 23.3% 10.9% 24.3% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2005 16.6% 4.9% 16.8% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2006 24.7% 15.8% 21.0% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2007 22.0% 5.5% 19.4% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2008 (35.2)% (37.0)% (29.0)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2009 XX% XX% XX% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- |
(1) CFAI is an international, nonprofit organization of more than 50,000
investment practitioners and educators in over 100 countries. CFAI offers
services in three broad categories: Education through seminars and
publications; Professional Conduct and Ethics; and Standards of Practice and
Advocacy. These CFAI performance presentation standards are intended to (i)
promote full and fair presentations by investment advisers of their performance
results and (ii) ensure uniformity in reporting so that performance results of
the investment advisers are directly comparable. CFAI performance presentation
standards differ from SEC standards for calculating performance for mutual
funds. The Adviser has prepared and presented this report in compliance with
the Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS([R]) ). CFAI has not been
involved in the preparation or review of this report.
(2) The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index generally representative of the
U.S. stock market. The index does not reflect investment management fees,
brokerage commissions, and other expenses associated with investing in equity
securities. Source of the S&P index data is Standard & Poor's Micropal, Inc.
(3) The S&P Utilities Index is an unmanaged index generally representative of
the U.S. market for utility stocks. The index does not reflect the investment
management fees, brokerage commissions, and other expenses associated with
investing in equity securities. Source of the S&P index data is Standard &
Poor's Micropal, Inc.
(4) The Adviser's composite began on January 1, 1978. Results are net of fees.
(5) Asset-Weighted Net of Fees.
PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES
This section tells you how to purchase and sell (sometimes called "redeem") Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.
Institutional Class Shares of the Fund are for individual and institutional customers.
HOW TO PURCHASE FUND SHARES
To purchase shares directly from the Fund through its transfer agent, complete and send in the application. If you need an application or have questions, please call 1-866-342-7058.
All investments must be made by check, Automated Clearing House ("ACH"), or wire. All checks must be made payable in U.S. dollars and drawn on U.S. financial institutions. The Fund does not accept purchases made by third-party checks, credit cards, credit card checks, cash, traveler's checks, money orders or cashier's checks.
The Fund reserves the right to reject any specific purchase order for any reason. The Fund is not intended for short-term trading by shareholders in response to short-term market fluctuations. For more information about the Fund's policy on short-term trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
The Fund does not generally accept investments by non-U.S. persons. Non-U.S. persons may be permitted to invest in the Fund subject to the satisfaction of enhanced due diligence. Please contact the Fund for more information.
BY MAIL
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
Reaves Select Research Fund
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
DST Systems, Inc.
c/o Reaves Select Research Fund
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
BY WIRE
To open an account by wire, first call 1-866-342-7058 for details. To add to an existing account by wire, wire your money using the wiring instructions set forth below (be sure to include the Fund name and your account number).
WIRING INSTRUCTIONS
UMB Bank, N.A.
ABA #101000695
Reaves Select Research Fund
DDA Account #9870523965
Ref: account number/account name
MINIMUM PURCHASES
To purchase Institutional Class Shares of the Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $1,000,000. There is no minimum for subsequent investments. The Fund may accept investments of smaller amounts in its sole discretion.
FUND CODES
The Fund's Institutional Class Shares' reference information listed below will be helpful to you when you contact the Fund to purchase shares, check daily NAV or obtain additional information.
Fund Name Trading Symbol CUSIP Fund Code -------------------------------- -------------- --------- --------- Reaves Select Research Fund RSRFX 00764Q108 1965 -------------------------------- -------------- --------- --------- |
GENERAL INFORMATION
You may purchase shares on any Business Day. Shares cannot be purchased by Federal Reserve wire on days when either the NYSE or the Federal Reserve is closed. The price per share will be the NAV next determined after the Fund receives your purchase order in proper form. "Proper form" means that the Fund was provided a complete and signed account application, including the investor's social security number, tax identification number, and other identification required by law or regulation, as well as sufficient purchase proceeds.
The Fund calculates its NAV once each Business Day as of the close of normal trading on the NYSE (normally, 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time). To receive the current Business Day's NAV, the Fund or an authorized institution must receive your purchase order in proper form before 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time. If the NYSE closes early -- such as on days in advance of certain holidays -- the Fund reserves the right to calculate NAV as of the earlier closing time. Shares will not be priced on days that the NYSE is closed for trading, including nationally observed holidays. The Fund will not accept orders that request a
particular day or price for the transaction or any other special conditions. Since securities that are traded on foreign exchanges may trade on days when the NYSE is closed, the value of the Fund may change on days when you are unable to purchase or redeem shares.
BUYING OR SELLING SHARES THROUGH A FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY
In addition to being able to buy and sell Fund shares directly from the Fund through its transfer agent, you may also purchase or sell shares of the Fund through accounts financial intermediaries such as brokers and other institutions that are authorized to place trades in Fund shares for their customers ("authorized institutions"). When you buy or sell Fund shares through certain authorized institutions (rather than directly from the Fund), you may have to transmit your purchase and sale requests to these authorized institutions at an earlier time for your transaction to become effective that day. This allows these authorized institutions time to process your requests and transmit them to the Fund. Your authorized institution is responsible for transmitting all purchase and sale requests, investment information, documentation and money to the Fund on time. If your authorized institution fails to do so, it may be responsible for any resulting fees or losses.
Certain authorized institutions, including certain broker-dealers and shareholder organizations, are authorized to act as agent on behalf of the Fund with respect to the receipt of purchase and sale requests for Fund shares. These requests are executed at the NAV next determined after the institution receives the request if transmitted to the Fund's transfer agent in accordance with the Fund's procedures and applicable law. To determine whether your authorized institution is authorized to act as an agent on behalf of the Fund with respect to purchase and redemption requests for Fund shares, you should contact them directly.
If you deal directly with an authorized institution, you will have to follow their procedures for transacting with the Fund. Your authorized institution may charge a fee for your purchase and/or redemption transactions. For more information about how to purchase or sell Fund shares through an authorized institution, you should contact your authorized institution directly.
HOW THE FUND CALCULATES NAV
NAV for one Fund share is the value of that share's portion of all of the net assets of the Fund. In calculating NAV, the Fund generally values its investment portfolio at market price. If market prices are not readily available or the Fund reasonably believes that they are unreliable, such as in the case of a security value that has been materially affected by events occurring after the relevant market closes, the Fund is required to price those securities at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees. Pursuant to the policies adopted by, and under the ultimate supervision of the Board, these methods are implemented through the Fund's Fair Value Committee, members of which are appointed by the Board of Trustees. The Fund's determination of a security's fair value price often involves the consideration of a number of subjective factors, and is therefore subject to the unavoidable risk that the value that the Fund assigns to a security may be higher or lower than the security's value would be if a reliable market quotation for the security was readily available.
With respect to non-U.S. securities held by the Fund, the Fund may take factors influencing specific markets or issuers into consideration in determining the fair value of a non-U.S. security. International securities markets may be open on days when the U.S. markets are closed. In such cases, the value of any international securities owned by the Fund may be significantly affected on days when investors cannot buy or sell shares. In addition, due to the difference in times between the close of the international markets and the time the Fund prices its shares, the value the Fund assigns to securities may not be the same as the quoted or published prices of those securities on their primary markets or exchanges. In
determining fair value prices, the Fund may consider the performance of securities on their primary exchanges, foreign currency appreciation/depreciation, securities market movements in the United States, or other relevant information as related to the securities.
There may be limited circumstances in which the Fund would price securities at fair value -- for example, if the exchange on which a portfolio security is principally traded closed early or if trading in a particular security was halted during the day and did not resume prior to the time the Fund calculated its NAV.
HOW TO SELL YOUR FUND SHARES
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any Business Day by contacting the Fund's transfer agent directly by mail or telephone.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares. Your broker or institution may charge a fee for its services, in addition to the fees charged by the Fund.
BY MAIL
To redeem shares by mail, please send a letter to the Fund signed by all registered parties on the account specifying:
o The Fund name;
o The account number;
o The dollar amount or number of shares you wish to redeem;
o The account name(s); and
o The address to which redemption (sale) proceeds should be sent.
All registered shareholders must sign the letter in the exact name(s) and must designate any special capacity in which they are registered.
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
Reaves Select Research Fund
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
DST Systems, Inc.
c/o Reaves Select Research Fund
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
Certain redemption requests require signature guarantees by a bank or member firm of a national securities exchange. For example, signature guarantees may be required if your address of record or banking instructions have recently been changed, or if you ask that the proceeds be sent to a different person or address. Signature guarantees are for the protection of shareholders. Before it grants a redemption request, the Fund may require a shareholder to furnish additional legal documents to insure proper authorization.
BY TELEPHONE
You must first establish the telephone redemption privilege (and, if desired, the wire redemption privilege) by completing the appropriate sections of the account application.
Call 1-866-342-7058 to redeem your shares. Based on your instructions, the Fund will mail your proceeds to you or send them to your bank via wire or ACH.
RECEIVING YOUR MONEY
Normally, the Fund will send your sale proceeds within seven days after the Fund receives your request. Your proceeds can be wired to your bank account (may be subject to a $10 fee), sent to you by check or sent via ACH to your bank account once you have established banking instructions with the Fund. IF YOU ARE SELLING SHARES THAT WERE RECENTLY PURCHASED BY CHECK OR THROUGH ACH, REDEMPTION PROCEEDS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE UNTIL YOUR CHECK HAS CLEARED OR THE ACH TRANSACTION HAS BEEN COMPLETED (WHICH MAY TAKE UP TO 15 DAYS FROM YOUR DATE OF PURCHASE).
REDEMPTIONS IN KIND
The Fund generally pays sale (redemption) proceeds in cash. However, under unusual conditions that make the payment of cash unwise and for the protection of the Fund's remaining shareholders the Fund might pay all or part of your redemption proceeds in securities with a market value equal to the redemption price (redemption in kind). It is highly unlikely that your shares would ever be redeemed in kind, but if they were you would have to pay transaction costs to sell the securities distributed to you, as well as taxes on any capital gains from the sale as with any redemption. In addition, you would continue to be subject to the risks of any market fluctuation in the value of the securities you receive in kind until they are sold.
INVOLUNTARY REDEMPTIONS OF YOUR SHARES
If your account balance drops below $100,000 because of redemptions you may be required to sell your shares. The Fund will provide you at least 30 days' written notice to give you sufficient time to add to your account and avoid the sale of your shares.
SUSPENSION OF YOUR RIGHT TO SELL YOUR SHARES
The Fund may suspend your right to sell your shares during times when trading on the NYSE is restricted or halted, or otherwise as permitted by the SEC. More information about this is in the SAI.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
Purchasing and selling Fund shares over the telephone is extremely convenient, but not without risk. Although the Fund has certain safeguards and procedures to confirm the identity of callers and the authenticity of instructions, the Fund is not responsible for any losses or costs incurred by following telephone instructions it reasonably believes to be genuine. If you or your financial institution transact with the Fund over the telephone, you will generally bear the risk of any loss.
OTHER POLICIES
EXCESSIVE TRADING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Fund is intended for long-term investment purposes only and discourages shareholders from engaging in "market timing" or other types of excessive short-term trading. This frequent trading into and out of the Fund may present risks to the Fund's long-term shareholders, and could adversely affect shareholder returns. The risks posed by frequent trading include interfering with the efficient implementation of the Fund's investment strategy, triggering the recognition of taxable gains and losses on the sale of Fund investments, requiring the Fund to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemption requests, and experiencing increased transaction costs.
In addition, because the Fund may invest in foreign securities traded primarily on markets that close prior to the time the Fund determines its NAV, the risks posed by frequent trading may have a greater potential to dilute the value of Fund shares held by long-term shareholders than funds investing in exclusively U.S. securities. In instances where a significant event that affects the value of one or more foreign securities held by the Fund takes place after the close of the primary foreign market, but before the time that the Fund determines its NAV, certain investors may seek to take advantage of the fact that there will be a delay in the adjustment of the market price for a security caused by this event until the foreign market reopens (sometimes referred to as "price" or "time zone" arbitrage). Shareholders who attempt this type of arbitrage may dilute the value of the Fund's shares if the price of the Fund's foreign securities do not reflect their fair value. Although, the Fund has procedures designed to determine the fair value of foreign securities for purposes of calculating its NAV when such an event has occurred, fair value pricing, because it involves judgments which are inherently subjective, may not always eliminate the risk of price arbitrage.
In addition, because the Fund invests in small/mid cap securities, which often trade in lower volumes and may be less liquid, the Fund may be more susceptible to the risks posed by frequent trading because frequent transactions in the Fund's shares may have a greater impact on the market prices of these types of securities.
The Fund's service providers will take steps reasonably designed to detect and deter frequent trading by shareholders pursuant to the Fund's policies and procedures described in this prospectus and approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees. For purposes of applying these policies, the Fund's service providers may consider the trading history of accounts under common ownership or control. The Fund's policies and procedures include:
o Shareholders are restricted from making more than 4 "round trips" into or out of the Fund per calendar year. If a shareholder exceeds this amount, the Fund and/or its service providers may, at their discretion, reject any additional purchase orders. The Fund defines a "round trip" as a purchase into the Fund by a shareholder, followed by a subsequent redemption out of the Fund, of an amount the Adviser reasonably believes would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
o The Fund reserves the right to reject any purchase request by any investor or group of investors for any reason without prior notice, including, in particular, if the Fund or its Adviser reasonably believes that the trading activity would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
The Fund and/or its service providers seek to apply these policies to the best of their abilities uniformly and in a manner they believe is consistent with the interests of the Fund's long-term shareholders. The Fund does not knowingly accommodate frequent purchases and redemptions by Fund shareholders. Although these policies are designed to deter frequent trading, none of these measures alone nor all of them taken together eliminate the possibility that frequent trading in the Fund will occur.
Financial intermediaries (such as investment advisers and broker-dealers) often establish omnibus accounts in the Fund for their customers through which transactions are placed. In accordance with Rule 22c-2 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), the Fund has entered into information sharing agreements with certain financial intermediaries. Under these agreements, a financial intermediary is obligated to: (1) enforce during the term of the agreement, the Fund's, or in certain instances, the financial intermediary's, market-timing policy; (2) furnish the Fund, upon its request, with information regarding customer trading activities in shares of the Fund; and (3) enforce the Fund's, or in certain instances, the financial intermediary's, market-timing policy with respect to customers identified by the Fund as having engaged in market timing. When information regarding transactions in the Fund's shares is requested by the Fund and such information is in the possession of a person that is itself a financial intermediary to a financial intermediary (an "indirect intermediary"), any financial intermediary with whom the Fund has an information sharing agreement is obligated to obtain transaction information from the indirect intermediary or, if directed by the Fund, to restrict or prohibit the indirect intermediary from purchasing shares of the Fund on behalf of other persons. Please contact your financial intermediary for more information.
CUSTOMER IDENTIFICATION AND VERIFICATION
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account.
What this means to you: When you open an account, the Fund will ask your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow the Fund to identify you. This information is subject to verification to ensure the identity of all persons opening a mutual fund account.
The Fund is required by law to reject your new account application if the required identifying information is not provided.
In certain instances, the Fund is required to collect documents to fulfill its legal obligation. Documents provided in connection with your application will be used solely to establish and verify a customer's identity.
Attempts to collect the missing information required on the application will be performed by either contacting you or, if applicable, your broker. If this information cannot be obtained within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Fund, your application will be rejected.
Upon receipt of your application in proper form (or upon receipt of all identifying information required on the application), your investment will be accepted and your order will be processed at the next-determined NAV.
The Fund reserves the right to close or liquidate your account at the NAV next determined and remit proceeds to you via check if it is unable to verify your identity. Attempts to verify your identity will be performed within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Fund. Further, the Fund reserves the right to hold your proceeds until your original check clears the bank, which may take up to 15 days from the date of purchase. In such an instance, you may be subject to a gain or loss on Fund shares and will be subject to corresponding tax implications.
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING PROGRAM
Customer identification and verification is part of the Fund's overall obligation to deter money laundering under federal law. The Fund has adopted an anti-money laundering compliance program designed to prevent the Fund from being used for money laundering or the financing of illegal activities. In this regard, the Fund reserves the right to: (i) refuse, cancel or rescind any purchase or exchange order; (ii) freeze any account and/or suspend account services; or (iii) involuntarily close your account in cases of threatening conduct or suspected fraudulent or illegal activity. These actions will be taken when, in the sole discretion of Fund management, they are deemed to be in the best interest of the Fund or in cases when the Fund is requested or compelled to do so by governmental or law enforcement authority. If your account is closed at the request of governmental or law enforcement authority, you may not receive proceeds of the redemption if the Fund is required to withhold such proceeds.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS
The Fund may compensate financial intermediaries for providing a variety of services to shareholders. "Financial intermediaries" include affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Fund, its service providers or their respective affiliates. This section and the following section briefly describe how financial intermediaries may be paid for providing these services.
The Fund generally pays financial intermediaries a fee that is based on the assets of the Fund that are attributable to investments by customers of the financial intermediary. The services for which financial intermediaries are compensated may include record-keeping, transaction processing for shareholders' accounts and other shareholder services. In addition to these payments, your financial intermediary may charge you account fees, transaction fees for buying or redeeming shares of the Fund, or other fees for servicing your account. Your financial intermediary should provide a schedule of its fees and services to you upon request.
The Fund does not pay these service fees on shares purchased directly. In addition to payments made directly to financial intermediaries by the Fund, the Adviser or its affiliates may, at their own expense, pay financial intermediaries for these and other services to Fund shareholders, as described in the section below.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
From time to time, the Adviser and/or its affiliates, in their discretion, may make payments to certain affiliated or unaffiliated financial intermediaries to compensate them for the costs associated with distribution, marketing, administration and shareholder servicing support. These payments are sometimes characterized as "revenue sharing" payments and are made out of the Adviser's and/or its affiliates' own legitimate profits or other resources, and are not paid by the Fund. A financial intermediary may provide these services with respect to Fund shares sold or held through programs such as retirement plans, qualified tuition programs, fund supermarkets, fee-based advisory or wrap fee programs, bank trust programs, and insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. In addition, financial intermediaries may receive payments for making shares of the Fund available to their customers or registered representatives, including providing the Fund with "shelf space," placing it on a preferred or recommended fund list, or promoting the Fund in certain sales programs that are sponsored by financial intermediaries. To the extent permitted by SEC and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority rules and other applicable laws and regulations, the Adviser and/or its affiliates may pay or allow other promotional
incentives or payments to financial intermediaries. For more information please see "Payments to Financial Intermediaries" in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information.
The level of payments to individual financial intermediaries varies in any given year and may be negotiated on the basis of sales of Fund shares, the amount of Fund assets serviced by the financial intermediary or the quality of the financial intermediary's relationship with the Adviser and/or its affiliates. These payments may be more or less than the payments received by the financial intermediaries from other mutual funds and may influence a financial intermediary to favor the sales of certain funds or share classes over others. In certain instances, the payments could be significant and may cause a conflict of interest for your financial intermediary. Any such payments will not change the net asset value or price of the Fund's shares. Please contact your financial intermediary for information about any payments it may receive in connection with the sale of Fund shares or the provision of services to Fund shareholders, as well as information about any fees and/or commissions it charges.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
The Fund seeks to declare quarterly dividends at fixed rates approved by the Fund's Board. To the extent that the amount of the Fund's net investment income and short-term capital gains is less than the approved fixed rate, some of its dividends may be paid from net capital gains or as a return of shareholder capital. To the extent the amount of the Fund's net investment income and short-term capital gains exceeds the approved fixed rate, the Fund may pay additional dividends. An additional distribution of net capital gains realized by the Fund, if any, may be made annually; provided, however, that no more than one distribution of net capital gains shall be made with respect to any one taxable year of the Fund (other than a permitted, supplemental distribution which does not exceed 10% of the aggregate amount distributed for such taxable year). If you own Fund shares on the Fund's record date, you will be entitled to receive the distribution. The Fund's Board will periodically revisit this dividend policy and will make changes if necessary in accordance with the shareholder's best interests.
You will receive dividends and distributions in the form of additional Fund shares unless you elect to receive payment in cash. To elect cash payment, you must notify the Fund in writing prior to the date of the distribution. Your election will be effective for dividends and distributions paid after the Fund receives your written notice. To cancel your election, simply send the Fund written notice.
TAXES
Please consult your tax advisor regarding your specific questions about federal, state and local income taxes. Below is a summary of some important tax issues that affect the Fund and its shareholders. This summary is based on current tax laws, which may change.
The Fund will distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any. The dividends and distributions you receive may be subject to federal, state and local taxation, depending upon your tax situation. Distributions you receive from the Fund may be taxable whether or not you reinvest them. Income distributions other than distributions of qualified dividend income, are generally taxable at ordinary income tax rates. Capital gains distributions and distributions of qualified dividend income are generally taxable at the rates applicable to long-term capital gains. If the Fund distributes more than its net investment income and net capital gains, the excess generally would be treated as a nontaxable return of capital that would reduce your cost basis in your Fund shares and would increase your capital gain or decrease your capital loss when you sell your shares.
Each sale of Fund shares may be a taxable event. The gain or loss on the sale of Fund shares generally will be treated as a short term capital gain or loss if you held the shares for 12 months or less or a long term capital gain or loss if you held the shares for longer.
To the extent that the Fund invests in foreign securities, it may be subject to foreign withholding taxes with respect to dividends or interest the Fund received from sources in foreign countries. The Fund may elect to treat some of those taxes as a distribution to shareholders, which would allow shareholders to offset some of their U.S. federal income tax.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TAXES IS IN THE SAI.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The table that follows presents performance information about Institutional Class Shares of the Fund. The information is intended to help you understand the Fund's financial performance for the past five fiscal years. Some of this information reflects financial information for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that you would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the Fund, assuming you reinvested all of your dividends and distributions. The information provided below has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund. The financial statements and the unqualified opinion of Ernst & Young LLP are included in the 2010 Annual Report of the Fund, which is available upon request by calling the Fund at 1-866-342-7058.
YEAR ENDED JULY 31, ------------------------------------ ---- ---------------------------- -------- REAVES SELECT RESEARCH FUND 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 ------------------------------------ ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $XX $10.96 $12.73 $11.81 $11.57 ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- Income from Operations: Net Investment Income(1) XX 0.19 0.30 0.22 0.25 Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments XX (3.45) 0.05(2) 1.85 0.83 ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- Total From Operations XX (3.26) 0.35 2.07 1.08 ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- Dividends and Distributions from: Net Investment Income XX (0.19) (0.29) (0.22) (0.25) Net Realized Gains XX (0.99) (1.83) (0.93) (0.59) ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- Total Dividends and Distributions XX (1.18) (2.12) (1.15) (0.84) ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- Net Asset Value, End of Period $XX $6.52 $10.96 $12.73 $11.81 ==== =========== ======== ======= ======== Total Return(3) XX% (28.51)%(4) 1.37% 18.30% 9.78%(4) ==== =========== ======== ======= ======== Ratios and Supplemental Data Net Assets, End of Period (Thousands) $XX $50,394 $74,026 $77,836 $70,129 Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (including waivers and reimbursements, excluding XX% 1.30% 1.15% 1.19% 1.30% fees paid indirectly) Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (excluding waivers, reimbursements and fees paid XX% 1.44% 1.15% 1.19% 1.30 indirectly) Ratio of Net Investment Income to Average Net Assets XX% 2.87% 2.49% 1.79% 2.18% Portfolio Turnover Rate XX% 72% 66% 84% 54% |
1 Per share data calculated using average shares method.
2 The amount shown for the year ended July 31, 2008 for a share outstanding
does not accord with aggregate net losses on investments for that period
because of the sales and repurchases of the Fund shares in relation to the
fluctuating market value of investments of the Fund.
3 Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized. Returns
shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on
Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
4 Total return would have been lower had certain fees not been waived by the
Adviser during the period.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
REAVES SELECT RESEARCH FUND
INVESTMENT ADVISER
W. H. Reaves & Co., Inc.
10 Exchange Place
18th Floor
Jersey City, New Jersey 07302
DISTRIBUTOR
SEI Investments Distribution Co.
One Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND IS AVAILABLE, WITHOUT CHARGE, THROUGH THE FOLLOWING:
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ("SAI"): The SAI includes detailed information about the Fund and The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II. The SAI is on file with the SEC and is incorporated by reference into this prospectus. This means that the SAI, for legal purposes, is a part of this prospectus.
ANNUAL AND SEMI-ANNUAL REPORTS: These reports contain information from the Fund's managers about investment strategies, and recent market conditions and trends and their impact on Fund performance. The reports also contain more information about the Fund's holdings and detailed financial information about the Fund.
TO OBTAIN AN SAI, ANNUAL OR SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT, OR MORE INFORMATION:
By Telephone: 1-866-342-7058 By Internet: www.whreaves.com By Mail: Reaves Select Research Fund P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 From the SEC: You can also obtain the SAI, Annual and Semi-Annual Reports, as |
well as other information about The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II, from the
EDGAR Database on the SEC's website at: http://www.sec.gov. You may review and
copy documents at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, DC (for
information on the operation of the Public Reference Room, call 202-942-8090).
You may request documents by mail from the SEC, upon payment of a duplicating
fee, by writing to: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Public Reference
Section, Washington, DC 20549-0102. You may also obtain this information, upon
payment of a duplicating fee, by e-mailing the SEC at the following address:
publicinfo@sec.gov.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II'S INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT REGISTRATION NUMBER
IS 811-07102.
[INSERT CODE]
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
PROSPECTUS
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
REAVES SELECT RESEARCH FUND
TICKER SYMBOL: RSRAX
INVESTOR CLASS SHARES
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
W.H. REAVES & CO., INC.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy or accuracy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS
This prospectus has been arranged into different sections so that you can easily review this important information. For detailed information about the Fund, please see:
Page INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE ..............................................XX FUND FEES AND EXPENSES ............................................XX PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ...................................XX PRINCIPAL RISKS ...................................................XX PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ...........................................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ................................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ................................................XX PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES ..................................XX TAX INFORMATION ...................................................XX PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ................................................XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK .......................................XX MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS ...........................XX INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ..............................XX INVESTMENT ADVISER ................................................XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ................................................XX HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE DATA OF THE ADVISER ........................XX PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES ................................XX OTHER POLICIES ....................................................XX SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS ................................XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ..............................XX DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES .......................................XX DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS .......................................XX TAXES .............................................................XX FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS ..............................................XX HOW TO OBTAIN MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND ............ Back Cover |
REAVES SELECT RESEARCH FUND
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Reaves Select Research Fund (the "Fund") seeks total return from income and capital growth.
FUND FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold Investor Class Shares of the Fund.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES THAT YOU PAY EACH YEAR AS A PERCENTAGE
OF THE VALUE OF YOUR INVESTMENT) Investor Class Shares --------------------------------------- --------------------- Management Fees 0.75% --------------------------------------- --------------------- Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees XX% --------------------------------------- --------------------- Other Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- --------------------- Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses XX% --------------------------------------- --------------------- Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses(1) XX% --------------------------------------- --------------------- |
1 The Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses in this fee table do not correlate to the expense ratio in the Fund's Financial Highlights because the Financial Highlights include only the direct operating expenses incurred by the Fund, and exclude Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of investment in shares of one or more acquired funds.
EXAMPLE
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX $XX $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in total annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate was XX% of the average value of its portfolio.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The Fund invests in securities of domestic and foreign public utility and energy companies. These include companies involved to a significant extent in providing products, services or equipment for: (i) the generation, transmission or distribution of electricity, gas or water; or (ii) telecommunications activities ("Utilities" or the "Utilities Industry") as well as in companies involved in the discovery, development, production, generation, transmission, refinement, measurement, trading, marketing or distribution of energy ("Energy" or the "Energy Industry"). The Fund may also invest in master limited partnerships involving such companies. The Fund has adopted a policy to concentrate its investments (invest at least 25% of its assets) in companies involved to a significant extent in the Utilities and Energy Industries. The Fund considers a company to be involved to a significant extent in the Utilities Industry and/or the Energy Industry if at least 50% of its assets, gross income or profits are committed to or derived from activities in the industries described above. The Fund may also invest in municipal utility companies, including rural electric cooperatives and similar organizations. The Fund may utilize an active trading approach.
In selecting investments for the Fund, W.H. Reaves & Co., Inc. (the "Adviser") seeks to identify securities that offer the potential for positive total return during a three to five year period, based on, among other factors, a company's market capitalization, balance sheet strength, expected dividends, and current and expected earnings and cash flow. The Adviser may sell a holding if its prospects for growth and income decline or when the Adviser deems it to be an unattractive investment.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
As with all mutual funds, a shareholder is subject to the risk that his or her investment could lose money. A FUND SHARE IS NOT A BANK DEPOSIT AND IS NOT INSURED OR GUARANTEED BY THE FDIC, OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. The principal risk factors affecting shareholders' investments in the Fund are set forth below.
Since it purchases equity securities, the Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Historically, the equity markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Fund's equity securities may fluctuate drastically from day to day. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by such companies may suffer a decline in response. These factors contribute to price volatility, which is the principal risk of investing in the Fund.
To the extent that the Fund's investments are focused in issuers conducting business in the Utilities Industry and/or the Energy Industry, the Fund is subject to the risk that legislative or regulatory changes, adverse market conditions and/or increased competition will negatively affect these industries. Fluctuations in the value of securities of companies in the Utilities Industry and/or the Energy Industry depend to a large extent on the price and supply of energy fuels. Many utility companies historically have been subject to risks of increases in fuel, power and other operating costs, high interest costs on borrowings needed for capital improvement programs and costs associated with compliance with and changes in environmental and other governmental regulations.
Although the Fund is diversified, its investment strategy often results in a relatively focused portfolio of stocks of companies that the Adviser believes hold the most total return potential. As a result, poor performance or adverse economic events affecting one or more of these companies could have a greater impact on the Fund than it would on another mutual fund with a broader range of investments.
The small- and medium-sized companies the Fund invests in may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic events than larger, more established companies. In particular, these small- and medium-sized companies may pose additional risks, including liquidity risk, because these companies tend to have limited product lines, markets and financial resources, and may depend upon a relatively small management group. Therefore, small- and mid-cap stocks may be more volatile than those of larger companies. These securities may be traded over-the-counter or listed on an exchange.
Investing in foreign companies poses additional risks since political and economic events unique to a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers. These events will not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or similar issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign companies are generally denominated in a foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. These currency movements may occur separately from and in response to events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer's home country.
Master Limited Partnerships ("MLPs") are limited partnerships in which the ownership units are publicly traded. MLP units are registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and are freely traded on a securities exchange or in the over-the-counter market. MLPs often own several properties or businesses (or own interests) that are related to oil and gas industries or other natural resources, but they also may finance other projects. To the extent that an MLP's interests are all in a particular industry, the MLP will be negatively impacted by economic events adversely impacting that industry. Generally, a MLP is operated under the supervision of one or more managing general partners. Limited partners are not involved in the day-to-day management of the partnership. The risks of investing in a MLP are generally those involved in investing in a partnership as opposed to a corporation. For example, state law governing partnerships is often less restrictive than state law governing corporations. Accordingly, there may be fewer protections afforded to investors in a MLP than investors in a corporation; for example, investors in MLPs may have limited voting rights or be liable under certain circumstances for amounts greater than the amount of their investment. In addition, MLPs may be subject to state taxation in certain jurisdictions which will have the effect of reducing the amount of income paid by the MLP to its investors.
Because of its active trading strategy, the Fund's portfolio turnover rate and transaction costs will generally be higher than those of funds with less active trading strategies, which may lower fund performance and increase the likelihood of capital gains distributions.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The bar chart and the performance table below illustrate the risks and volatility of an investment in the Investor Class Shares of the Fund by showing changes in the Fund's Investor Class Shares' performance from year to year and by showing how the Fund's Investor Class Shares' average annual total returns for 1 year and since inception compare with those of a broad measure of market performance. Of course, the Fund's past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Updated performance information is available by calling 1-866-342-7058.
2006 18.71% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2007 21.38% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2008 (40.82)% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2009 XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
BEST QUARTER WORST QUARTER ------------- ------------- XX% (XX)% (XX/XX/XXXX) (XX/XX/XXXX) |
The performance information shown above is based on a calendar year. The Fund's Investor Class Shares' performance from 1/1/2010 to 9/30/2010 was XX%.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR PERIODS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2009
After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an investor's tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns shown are not relevant to investors who hold their Fund shares through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans or individual retirement accounts.
[Returns after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares may be higher than before-tax returns when a net capital loss occurs upon the redemption of Fund shares.]
Since Inception Investor Class Shares 1 Year (3/30/05) ----------------------------------------------------------- ------ -------------- Fund Returns Before Taxes XX% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------- ------ --------------- Fund Returns After Taxes on Distributions XX% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------- ------ --------------- Fund Returns After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of XX% XX% Fund Shares ----------------------------------------------------------- ------ --------------- S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or XX% XX% taxes) ----------------------------------------------------------- ------ --------------- S&P 500 Utilities Index (reflects no deduction for fees, XX% XX% expenses or taxes) ----------------------------------------------------------- ------ --------------- |
INVESTMENT ADVISER
W.H. Reaves & Co., Inc.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
William A. Ferer, President and Director of Research, has co-managed the Fund since its inception.
Ronald J. Sorenson, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, has co-managed the Fund since its inception.
PURCHASE AND SALE OF FUND SHARES
To purchase Investor Class Shares of the Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $1,000. There is no minimum for subsequent investments.
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business (a "Business Day") by contacting the Fund directly by mail at Reaves Select Research Fund, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: DST Systems, Inc., c/o Reaves Select Research Fund, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105) or telephone at 1-866-342-7058.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.
PAYMENTS TO BROKER-DEALERS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
If you purchase shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary's web site for more information.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT RISK
Investing in the Fund involves risk and there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its goal. The Adviser's judgments about the markets, the economy, or companies may not anticipate actual market movements, economic conditions or company performance, and these judgments may affect the return on your investment. In fact, no matter how good a job the Adviser does, you could lose money on your investment in the Fund, just as you could with similar investments.
The value of your investment in the Fund is based on the value of the securities the Fund holds. These prices change daily due to economic and other events that affect particular companies and other issuers. These price movements, sometimes called volatility, may be greater or lesser depending on the types of securities the Fund owns and the markets in which they trade. The effect on the Fund of a change in the value of a single security will depend on how widely the Fund diversifies its holdings.
EQUITY RISK -- Equity securities include publicly and privately issued equity securities, common and preferred stocks, warrants, rights to subscribe to common stock and convertible securities, interests in master limited partnerships, as well as instruments that attempt to track the price movement of equity indices. Investments in equity securities and equity derivatives in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. The value of securities convertible into equity securities, such as warrants or convertible debt, is also affected by prevailing interest rates, the credit quality of the issuer and any call provision. Fluctuations in the value of equity securities in which a mutual fund invests will cause the fund's net asset value ("NAV") to fluctuate. An investment in a portfolio of equity securities may be more suitable for long-term investors who can bear the risk of these share price fluctuations.
FOREIGN SECURITY RISK -- Investments in securities of foreign companies or governments can be more volatile than investments in U.S. companies or governments. Diplomatic, political, or economic developments, including nationalization or appropriation, could affect investments in foreign companies. Foreign securities markets generally have less trading volume and less liquidity than U.S. markets. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies, and of dividends from such securities, can change significantly when foreign currencies strengthen or weaken relative to the U.S. dollar. Foreign companies or governments generally are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to domestic U.S. companies or governments. Transaction costs are generally higher than those in the United States and expenses for custodial arrangements of foreign securities may be somewhat greater than typical expenses for custodial arrangements of similar U.S. securities. Some foreign governments levy withholding taxes against dividend and interest income. Although in some countries a portion of these taxes are recoverable, the non-recovered portion will reduce the income received from the securities comprising the portfolio.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS
The investments and strategies described in this prospectus are those that the Fund uses under normal conditions. During unusual economic or market conditions, or for temporary defensive or liquidity purposes, the Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in money market instruments or other cash equivalents that would not ordinarily be consistent with its investment objective. If the Fund invests in this manner, it may not achieve its investment objective. The Fund will do so only if the Adviser believes that the risk of loss outweighs the opportunity to pursue its investment objective.
This prospectus describes the Fund's principal investment strategies, and the Fund will normally invest in the types of securities described in this prospectus. In addition to the securities and other investments and strategies described in this prospectus, the Fund also may invest, to a lesser extent, in other securities, use other strategies and engage in other investment practices that are not part of its principal investment strategy. These investments and strategies are described in detail in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") (for information on how to obtain a copy of the SAI see the back cover of this prospectus). Of course, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment goal.
INFORMATION ABOUT PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The Fund generally publishes a complete list of its portfolio holdings on a monthly basis, as of the end of the previous month. For example, the Fund's investments as of the end of January would ordinarily be published at the end of February. The Fund also publishes a list of its ten largest portfolio holdings, and the percentage of the Fund's assets that each of these holdings represents, on a monthly basis, ten (10) days after the end of the month. The portfolio holdings information described above can be found on the internet at http://aicfundholdings.com/reaves. The information will generally remain available until replaced by new portfolio holdings information as described above. The Adviser may exclude any portion of the Fund's portfolio holdings from publication when deemed to be in the best interest of the Fund. Please consult the Fund's SAI for a full description of the policies and procedures that govern disclosure of the Fund's portfolio holdings.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
The Adviser makes investment decisions for the Fund and continuously reviews, supervises and administers the Fund's investment program. The Trust's Board of Trustees supervises the Adviser and establishes policies that the Adviser must follow in its management activities.
W.H. Reaves & Co., Inc., founded in 1961, serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 10 Exchange Place, 18th Floor, Jersey City, New Jersey 07302. As of September 30, 2010, the Adviser had approximately $XX billion in assets under management.
For its services, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.75% based on the average daily net assets of the Fund. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its fees and reimburse expenses in order to keep total annual fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, acquired fund fees and expenses and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 1.55% of the Fund's Investor Class Shares' average daily net assets. The Adviser intends to continue this expense limitation until further notice, but may discontinue all or a portion of its fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual fund operating expenses and 1.55% to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expense reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period during which the agreement was in place. For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Fund paid XX% of its average daily net assets in advisory fees to the Adviser.
A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the Fund's investment advisory agreement is available in the Fund's Annual Report to Shareholders for the period ended July 31, 2010.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
The Fund is co-managed by a team of investment professionals who are jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund. The SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed and ownership of Fund shares.
Mr. William A. Ferer has served as President and Director of Research of the Adviser since February 2003, after serving as Executive Vice President from November 1997 to February 2003 and Vice President from July 1987 to November 1997. Mr. Ferer has also served as a portfolio manager and analyst for the Adviser since 1987. He has co-managed the Fund since its inception. Mr. Ferer has more than 38 years of investment experience.
Mr. Ronald J. Sorenson has served as Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Adviser since September 2005 and as Chief Investment Officer of the Adviser since November 2002. Previously, he served as Executive Vice President of the Adviser from November 2002 to September 2005 and as Vice President of the Adviser from December 1991 to November 2002. He has co-managed the Fund since its inception. Mr. Sorenson has more than 27 years of investment experience.
The Fund's Statement of Additional Information provides additional information about the portfolio managers' compensation, other accounts managed, and ownership of Fund shares.
HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE DATA OF THE ADVISER
The following table gives the historical performance of a composite of actual, fee-paying, discretionary equity ERISA accounts (including designated cash reserves) with assets over $1 million ("Equity Accounts"), managed by the Adviser since 1978, that have investment objectives, policies, strategies, and risks substantially similar to those of the Fund. Up to 15% of the composite portfolio may, at the portfolio managers' discretion, be invested in assets outside of the benchmark. The composite does not reflect all of the Adviser's assets under management. A complete list and description of the Adviser's composites are available upon request. The data illustrates the past performance of the Adviser in managing substantially similar accounts. The data does not represent the performance of the Fund. Performance is historical and does not represent the future performance of the Fund or of the Adviser.
The manner in which the performance was calculated for the composite differs from that of a registered mutual fund such as the Fund. This composite performance data was calculated in accordance with the standards of the Chartered Financial Analyst Institute (CFAI).(1) All returns presented were calculated on a total return basis and include all dividends and interest, accrued income, and realized and unrealized gains and losses. Except as otherwise noted, all returns reflect the payment of investment management fees, brokerage commissions, and execution costs paid by the Equity Accounts, without taking into account federal or state income taxes. Custodial fees, if any, were not included in the calculation. Securities transactions were accounted for on the trade date, and accrual accounting was utilized. Cash and equivalents were included in the performance returns. The composite's dollar-weighted returns were calculated on a time-weighted basis, stated in U.S. dollars. Therefore, the performance information shown below is not necessarily representative of the performance information that typically would be shown for a registered mutual fund.
The Equity Accounts that are included in the composite are not subject to the same type of expenses to which the Fund is subject and are not subject to the diversification requirements, specific tax restrictions, and investment limitations imposed by the federal securities and tax laws. Consequently, the performance
results for the composite could have been adversely affected if the Equity Accounts in the composite were subject to the federal securities and tax laws.
The investment results for the Adviser's composite presented below are not intended to predict or suggest the future returns of the Fund. The Fund's performance record can be found on page [XX]. The performance data shown below should not be considered a substitute for the Fund's own performance information. Investors should be aware that the use of a methodology different than that used below to calculate performance could result in different performance data.
ADVISER'S COMPOSITE TIME PERIOD (EQUITY AND CASH) S&P 500(2) S&P UTILITIES INDEX(3) ----------- ----------- ----------------------------- ------------------- ------------------------ Average Annual Returns (as of 12/31/09) --------------------------------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 3 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 5 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 10 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 15 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 20 Year XX% XX% XX% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1/1/78 -- 12/31/09(4) XX% XX% XX% ----------------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- CUMULATIVE RETURNS ----------------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1/1/78 -- 12/31/09(4) XX% XX% XX% ----------------------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- |
THE ADVISER'S COMPOSITE CHARACTERISTICS
(THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2009)
--------------------------------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- NO. OF TOTAL AS A % OF TOTAL MANAGED STANDARD YEAR ACCOUNTS (IN $ MIL) TOTAL MANAGED (IN $ MIL) DEVIATION(5) ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ----------------------- -------------------- 1978 1 $1.4 100% $1.4 0.00% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1979 1 1.9 100% 1.9 0.00% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1980 1 2.6 100% 2.6 0.00% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1981 6 34.5 100% 34.5 5.05% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1982 8 59.1 91% 64.9 1.46% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1983 11 99.4 97% 102.5 0.90% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1984 13 214.7 98% 219.1 1.00% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1985 17 382.4 90% 424.9 0.77% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1986 18 510.1 81% 629.8 0.83% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1987 19 513.8 80% 642.3 0.41% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1988 20 580.9 81% 717.2 0.27% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1989 22 871.3 79% 1,012.9 0.65% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1990 20 760.2 67% 1,134.6 0.56% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1991 22 808.9 69% 1,172.3 0.43% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1992 19 735.8 72% 1,021.9 1.07% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1993 19 810.0 72% 1,125.0 0.34% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1994 18 741.3 76% 972.0 0.52% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1995 15 814.3 68% 1,190.5 0.33% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1996 15 825.3 69% 1,192.8 0.30% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1997 13 672.6 61% 1,098.0 0.58% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1998 11 698.9 59% 1,205.9 0.35% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- 1999 11 676.4 59% 1,142.6 0.77% ----------- ----------- --------------- ------------- ------------------- --- -------------------- |
NO. OF TOTAL AS A % OF TOTAL MANAGED STANDARD YEAR ACCOUNTS (IN $ MIL) TOTAL MANAGED (IN $ MIL) DEVIATION(5) ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2000 10 789.6 59% 1,337.5 1.17% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2001 10 689.0 59% 1,174.6 0.85% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2002 10 499.4 54% 931.3 1.04% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2003 10 386.5 41% 932.9 0.68% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2004 8 420.9 24% 1,726.9 0.56% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2005 8 451.0 24% 1,875.5 0.49% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2006 8 546.0 23% 2,414.0 0.16% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2007 10 637.9 22% 2,904.5 0.24% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2008 10 359.5 19% 1,859.6 1.12% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2009 XX XX XX% XX XX% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- ANNUAL RETURNS --------------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- Adviser's Composite Year (equity and cash) S&P 500(2) S&P Utilities(3) ------ -------- ----------------------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1978 (1.3)% 6.6% (3.7)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1979 30.1% 18.7% 13.5% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1980 34.5% 32.5% 15.2% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1981 11.7% (4.9)% 11.9% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1982 13.0% 21.4% 26.4% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1983 34.1% 22.4% 20.1% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1984 25.6% 6.1% 25.9% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1985 34.9% 31.6% 32.8% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1986 26.2% 18.6% 28.4% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1987 (0.4)% 5.1% (2.9)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1988 15.0% 16.1% 18.2% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1989 38.7% 31.5% 47.0% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1990 (2.4)% (3.1)% (2.6)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1991 12.1% 30.5% 14.5% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1992 12.1% 7.6% 8.3% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1993 15.8% 10.1% 14.4% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1994 (3.3)% 1.3% (7.9)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1995 34.7% 37.6% 41.1% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1996 10.1% 23.0% 3.1% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1997 28.3% 33.4% 24.7% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1998 18.4% 28.6% 14.8% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 1999 2.8% 21.0% (8.9)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2000 25.8% (9.1)% 59.7% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2001 (9.5)% (11.9)% (30.4)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2002 (19.3)% (22.1)% (30.0)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2003 19.4% 28.7% 26.3% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2004 23.3% 10.9% 24.3% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2005 16.6% 4.9% 16.8% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2006 24.7% 15.8% 21.0% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2007 22.0% 5.5% 19.4% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2008 (35.2)% (37.0)% (29.0)% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- 2009 XX% XX% XX% ------ -------- --------------- ------------- --------------------- -------------------- |
(1) CFAI is an international, nonprofit organization of more than 50,000
investment practitioners and educators in over 100 countries. CFAI offers
services in three broad categories: Education through seminars and
publications; Professional Conduct and Ethics; and Standards of Practice and
Advocacy. These CFAI performance presentation standards are intended to (i)
promote full and fair presentations by investment advisers of their performance
results and (ii) ensure uniformity in reporting so that performance results of
the investment advisers are directly comparable. CFAI performance presentation
standards differ from SEC standards for calculating performance for mutual
funds. The Adviser has prepared and presented this report in compliance with
the Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS([R]) ). CFAI has not been
involved in the preparation or review of this report.
(2) The S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index generally representative of the
U.S. stock market. The index does not reflect investment management fees,
brokerage commissions, and other expenses associated with investing in equity
securities. Source of the S&P index data is Standard & Poor's Micropal, Inc.
(3) The S&P Utilities Index is an unmanaged index generally representative of
the U.S. market for utility stocks. The index does not reflect the investment
management fees, brokerage commissions, and other expenses associated with
investing in equity securities. Source of the S&P index data is Standard &
Poor's Micropal, Inc.
(4) The Adviser's composite began on January 1, 1978. Results are net of fees.
(5) Asset-Weighted Net of Fees.
PURCHASING AND SELLING FUND SHARES
This section tells you how to purchase and sell (sometimes called "redeem") Investor Class Shares of the Fund.
Investor Class Shares of the Fund are for individual and retail investors.
HOW TO PURCHASE FUND SHARES
To purchase shares directly from the Fund through its transfer agent, complete and send in the application. If you need an application or have questions, please call 1-866-342-7058.
All investments must be made by check, Automated Clearing House ("ACH"), or wire. All checks must be made payable in U.S. dollars and drawn on U.S. financial institutions. The Fund does not accept purchases made by third-party checks, credit cards, credit card checks, cash, traveler's checks, money orders or cashier's checks.
The Fund reserves the right to reject any specific purchase order for any reason. The Fund is not intended for short-term trading by shareholders in response to short-term market fluctuations. For more information about the Fund's policy on short-term trading, see "Excessive Trading Policies and Procedures."
The Fund does not generally accept investments by non-U.S. persons. Non-U.S. persons may be permitted to invest in the Fund subject to the satisfaction of enhanced due diligence. Please contact the Fund for more information.
BY MAIL
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
Reaves Select Research Fund
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
DST Systems, Inc.
c/o Reaves Select Research Fund
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
BY WIRE
To open an account by wire, first call 1-866-342-7058 for details. To add to an existing account by wire, wire your money using the wiring instructions set forth below (be sure to include the Fund name and your account number).
WIRING INSTRUCTIONS
UMB Bank, N.A.
ABA #101000695
Reaves Select Research Fund
DDA Account #9870523965
Ref: account number/account name
BY AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN (VIA AUTOMATED CLEARING HOUSE OR ACH)
You may not open an account via ACH. However, once you have established an account, you can set up an automatic investment plan by mailing a completed application to the Fund. These purchases can be made monthly, quarterly, semi-annually or annually in amount of at least $25. To cancel or change a plan, write to the Fund at Reaves Select Research Fund, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 (Express Mail Address: 430 West 7(th) Street, Kansas City, MO 64105). Allow up to 15 days to create the plan and 3 days to cancel or change it.
MINIMUM PURCHASES
To purchase Investor Class Shares of the Fund for the first time, you must invest at least $1,000. There is no minimum for subsequent investments. The Fund may accept investments of smaller amounts in its sole discretion.
FUND CODES
The Fund's Investor Class Shares' reference information listed below will be helpful to you when you contact the Fund to purchase shares, check daily NAV or obtain additional information.
Fund Name Trading Symbol CUSIP Fund Code -------------------------------- -------------- --------- --------- Reaves Select Research Fund RSRAX 00764Q207 1964 -------------------------------- -------------- --------- --------- |
GENERAL INFORMATION
You may purchase shares on any Business Day. Shares cannot be purchased by Federal Reserve wire on days when either the NYSE or the Federal Reserve is closed. The price per share will be the NAV next determined after the Fund receives your purchase order in proper form. "Proper form" means that the Fund was provided a complete and signed account application, including the investor's social security
number, tax identification number, and other identification required by law or regulation, as well as sufficient purchase proceeds.
The Fund calculates its NAV once each Business Day as of the close of normal trading on the NYSE (normally, 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time). To receive the current Business Day's NAV, the Fund or an authorized institution must receive your purchase order in proper form before 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time. If the NYSE closes early -- such as on days in advance of certain holidays -- the Fund reserves the right to calculate NAV as of the earlier closing time. Shares will not be priced on days that the NYSE is closed for trading, including nationally observed holidays. The Fund will not accept orders that request a particular day or price for the transaction or any other special conditions. Since securities that are traded on foreign exchanges may trade on days when the NYSE is closed, the value of the Fund may change on days when you are unable to purchase or redeem shares.
BUYING OR SELLING SHARES THROUGH A FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY
In addition to being able to buy and sell Fund shares directly from the Fund through its transfer agent, you may also purchase or sell shares of the Fund through accounts financial intermediaries such as brokers and other institutions that are authorized to place trades in Fund shares for their customers ("authorized institutions"). When you buy or sell Fund shares through certain authorized institutions (rather than directly from the Fund), you may have to transmit your purchase and sale requests to these authorized institutions at an earlier time for your transaction to become effective that day. This allows these authorized institutions time to process your requests and transmit them to the Fund. Your authorized institution is responsible for transmitting all purchase and sale requests, investment information, documentation and money to the Fund on time. If your authorized institution fails to do so, it may be responsible for any resulting fees or losses.
Certain authorized institutions, including certain broker-dealers and shareholder organizations, are authorized to act as agent on behalf of the Fund with respect to the receipt of purchase and sale requests for Fund shares. These requests are executed at the NAV next determined after the institution receives the request if transmitted to the Fund's transfer agent in accordance with the Fund's procedures and applicable law. To determine whether your authorized institution is authorized to act as an agent on behalf of the Fund with respect to purchase and redemption requests for Fund shares, you should contact them directly.
If you deal directly with an authorized institution, you will have to follow their procedures for transacting with the Fund. Your authorized institution may charge a fee for your purchase and/or redemption transactions. For more information about how to purchase or sell Fund shares through an authorized institution, you should contact your authorized institution directly.
HOW THE FUND CALCULATES NAV
NAV for one Fund share is the value of that share's portion of all of the net assets of the Fund. In calculating NAV, the Fund generally values its investment portfolio at market price. If market prices are not readily available or the Fund reasonably believes that they are unreliable, such as in the case of a security value that has been materially affected by events occurring after the relevant market closes, the Fund is required to price those securities at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Fund's Board of Trustees. Pursuant to the policies adopted by, and under the ultimate supervision of the Board, these methods are implemented through the Fund's Fair Value Committee, members of which are appointed by the Board of Trustees. The Fund's determination of a security's fair value price often involves the consideration of a number of subjective factors, and is therefore subject to the
unavoidable risk that the value that the Fund assigns to a security may be higher or lower than the security's value would be if a reliable market quotation for the security was readily available.
With respect to non-U.S. securities held by the Fund, the Fund may take factors influencing specific markets or issuers into consideration in determining the fair value of a non-U.S. security. International securities markets may be open on days when the U.S. markets are closed. In such cases, the value of any international securities owned by the Fund may be significantly affected on days when investors cannot buy or sell shares. In addition, due to the difference in times between the close of the international markets and the time the Fund prices its shares, the value the Fund assigns to securities may not be the same as the quoted or published prices of those securities on their primary markets or exchanges. In determining fair value prices, the Fund may consider the performance of securities on their primary exchanges, foreign currency appreciation/depreciation, securities market movements in the United States, or other relevant information as related to the securities.
There may be limited circumstances in which the Fund would price securities at fair value -- for example, if the exchange on which a portfolio security is principally traded closed early or if trading in a particular security was halted during the day and did not resume prior to the time the Fund calculated its NAV.
HOW TO SELL YOUR FUND SHARES
If you own your shares directly, you may sell your shares on any Business Day by contacting the Fund's transfer agent directly by mail or telephone.
If you own your shares through an account with a broker or other institution, contact that broker or institution to sell your shares. Your broker or institution may charge a fee for its services, in addition to the fees charged by the Fund.
BY MAIL
To redeem shares by mail, please send a letter to the Fund signed by all registered parties on the account specifying:
o The Fund name;
o The account number;
o The dollar amount or number of shares you wish to redeem;
o The account name(s); and
o The address to which redemption (sale) proceeds should be sent.
All registered shareholders must sign the letter in the exact name(s) and must designate any special capacity in which they are registered.
REGULAR MAIL ADDRESS
Reaves Select Research Fund
P.O. Box 219009
Kansas City, MO 64121-9009
EXPRESS MAIL ADDRESS
DST Systems, Inc.
c/o Reaves Select Research Fund
430 West 7th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105
Certain redemption requests require signature guarantees by a bank or member firm of a national securities exchange. For example, signature guarantees may be required if your address of record or banking instructions have recently been changed, or if you ask that the proceeds be sent to a different person or address. Signature guarantees are for the protection of shareholders. Before it grants a redemption request, the Fund may require a shareholder to furnish additional legal documents to insure proper authorization.
BY TELEPHONE
You must first establish the telephone redemption privilege (and, if desired, the wire redemption privilege) by completing the appropriate sections of the account application.
Call 1-866-342-7058 to redeem your shares. Based on your instructions, the Fund will mail your proceeds to you or send them to your bank via wire or ACH.
BY SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN (VIA ACH)
If your account balance is at least $10,000, you may transfer as little as $100 per month from your account to another financial institution through a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (via ACH). To participate in this service, you must complete the appropriate sections of the account application and mail it to the Fund.
RECEIVING YOUR MONEY
Normally, the Fund will send your sale proceeds within seven days after the Fund receives your request. Your proceeds can be wired to your bank account (may be subject to a $10 fee), sent to you by check or sent via ACH to your bank account once you have established banking instructions with the Fund. IF YOU ARE SELLING SHARES THAT WERE RECENTLY PURCHASED BY CHECK OR THROUGH ACH, REDEMPTION PROCEEDS MAY NOT BE AVAILABLE UNTIL YOUR CHECK HAS CLEARED OR THE ACH TRANSACTION HAS BEEN COMPLETED (WHICH MAY TAKE UP TO 15 DAYS FROM YOUR DATE OF PURCHASE).
REDEMPTIONS IN KIND
The Fund generally pays sale (redemption) proceeds in cash. However, under unusual conditions that make the payment of cash unwise and for the protection of the Fund's remaining shareholders the Fund might pay all or part of your redemption proceeds in securities with a market value equal to the redemption price (redemption in kind). It is highly unlikely that your shares would ever be redeemed in kind, but if they were you would have to pay transaction costs to sell the securities distributed to you, as well as taxes on any capital gains from the sale as with any redemption. In addition, you would continue to be subject to the risks of any market fluctuation in the value of the securities you receive in kind until they are sold.
INVOLUNTARY REDEMPTIONS OF YOUR SHARES
If your account balance drops below $500 because of redemptions you may be required to sell your shares. The Fund will provide you at least 30 days' written notice to give you sufficient time to add to your account and avoid the sale of your shares.
SUSPENSION OF YOUR RIGHT TO SELL YOUR SHARES
The Fund may suspend your right to sell your shares during times when trading on the NYSE is restricted or halted, or otherwise as permitted by the SEC. More information about this is in the SAI.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
Purchasing and selling Fund shares over the telephone is extremely convenient, but not without risk. Although the Fund has certain safeguards and procedures to confirm the identity of callers and the authenticity of instructions, the Fund is not responsible for any losses or costs incurred by following telephone instructions it reasonably believes to be genuine. If you or your financial institution transact with the Fund over the telephone, you will generally bear the risk of any loss.
OTHER POLICIES
EXCESSIVE TRADING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Fund is intended for long-term investment purposes only and discourages shareholders from engaging in "market timing" or other types of excessive short-term trading. This frequent trading into and out of the Fund may present risks to the Fund's long-term shareholders, and could adversely affect shareholder returns. The risks posed by frequent trading include interfering with the efficient implementation of the Fund's investment strategy, triggering the recognition of taxable gains and losses on the sale of Fund investments, requiring the Fund to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemption requests, and experiencing increased transaction costs.
In addition, because the Fund may invest in foreign securities traded primarily on markets that close prior to the time the Fund determines its NAV, the risks posed by frequent trading may have a greater potential to dilute the value of Fund shares held by long-term shareholders than funds investing in exclusively U.S. securities. In instances where a significant event that affects the value of one or more foreign securities held by the Fund takes place after the close of the primary foreign market, but before the time that the Fund determines its NAV, certain investors may seek to take advantage of the fact that there will be a delay in the adjustment of the market price for a security caused by this event until the foreign market reopens (sometimes referred to as "price" or "time zone" arbitrage). Shareholders who attempt this type of arbitrage may dilute the value of the Fund's shares if the price of the Fund's foreign securities do not reflect their fair value. Although, the Fund has procedures designed to determine the fair value of foreign securities for purposes of calculating its NAV when such an event has occurred, fair value pricing, because it involves judgments which are inherently subjective, may not always eliminate the risk of price arbitrage.
In addition, because the Fund invests in small/mid cap securities, which often trade in lower volumes and may be less liquid, the Fund may be more susceptible to the risks posed by frequent trading because frequent transactions in the Fund's shares may have a greater impact on the market prices of these types of securities.
The Fund's service providers will take steps reasonably designed to detect and deter frequent trading by shareholders pursuant to the Fund's policies and procedures described in this prospectus and approved by
the Fund's Board of Trustees. For purposes of applying these policies, the Fund's service providers may consider the trading history of accounts under common ownership or control. The Fund's policies and procedures include:
o Shareholders are restricted from making more than 4 "round trips" into or out of the Fund per calendar year. If a shareholder exceeds this amount, the Fund and/or its service providers may, at their discretion, reject any additional purchase orders. The Fund defines a "round trip" as a purchase into the Fund by a shareholder, followed by a subsequent redemption out of the Fund, of an amount the Adviser reasonably believes would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
o The Fund reserves the right to reject any purchase request by any investor or group of investors for any reason without prior notice, including, in particular, if the Fund or its Adviser reasonably believes that the trading activity would be harmful or disruptive to the Fund.
The Fund and/or its service providers seek to apply these policies to the best of their abilities uniformly and in a manner they believe is consistent with the interests of the Fund's long-term shareholders. The Fund does not knowingly accommodate frequent purchases and redemptions by Fund shareholders. Although these policies are designed to deter frequent trading, none of these measures alone nor all of them taken together eliminate the possibility that frequent trading in the Fund will occur.
Financial intermediaries (such as investment advisers and broker-dealers) often establish omnibus accounts in the Fund for their customers through which transactions are placed. In accordance with Rule 22c-2 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), the Fund has entered into information sharing agreements with certain financial intermediaries. Under these agreements, a financial intermediary is obligated to: (1) enforce during the term of the agreement, the Fund's, or in certain instances, the financial intermediary's, market-timing policy; (2) furnish the Fund, upon its request, with information regarding customer trading activities in shares of the Fund; and (3) enforce the Fund's, or in certain instances, the financial intermediary's, market-timing policy with respect to customers identified by the Fund as having engaged in market timing. When information regarding transactions in the Fund's shares is requested by the Fund and such information is in the possession of a person that is itself a financial intermediary to a financial intermediary (an "indirect intermediary"), any financial intermediary with whom the Fund has an information sharing agreement is obligated to obtain transaction information from the indirect intermediary or, if directed by the Fund, to restrict or prohibit the indirect intermediary from purchasing shares of the Fund on behalf of other persons. Please contact your financial intermediary for more information.
CUSTOMER IDENTIFICATION AND VERIFICATION
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who opens an account.
What this means to you: When you open an account, the Fund will ask your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow the Fund to identify you. This information is subject to verification to ensure the identity of all persons opening a mutual fund account.
The Fund is required by law to reject your new account application if the required identifying information is not provided.
In certain instances, the Fund is required to collect documents to fulfill its legal obligation. Documents provided in connection with your application will be used solely to establish and verify a customer's identity.
Attempts to collect the missing information required on the application will be performed by either contacting you or, if applicable, your broker. If this information cannot be obtained within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Fund, your application will be rejected.
Upon receipt of your application in proper form (or upon receipt of all identifying information required on the application), your investment will be accepted and your order will be processed at the next-determined NAV.
The Fund reserves the right to close or liquidate your account at the NAV next determined and remit proceeds to you via check if it is unable to verify your identity. Attempts to verify your identity will be performed within a reasonable timeframe established in the sole discretion of the Fund. Further, the Fund reserves the right to hold your proceeds until your original check clears the bank, which may take up to 15 days from the date of purchase. In such an instance, you may be subject to a gain or loss on Fund shares and will be subject to corresponding tax implications.
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING PROGRAM
Customer identification and verification is part of the Fund's overall obligation to deter money laundering under federal law. The Fund has adopted an anti-money laundering compliance program designed to prevent the Fund from being used for money laundering or the financing of illegal activities. In this regard, the Fund reserves the right to: (i) refuse, cancel or rescind any purchase or exchange order; (ii) freeze any account and/or suspend account services; or (iii) involuntarily close your account in cases of threatening conduct or suspected fraudulent or illegal activity. These actions will be taken when, in the sole discretion of Fund management, they are deemed to be in the best interest of the Fund or in cases when the Fund is requested or compelled to do so by governmental or law enforcement authority. If your account is closed at the request of governmental or law enforcement authority, you may not receive proceeds of the redemption if the Fund is required to withhold such proceeds.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS
The Fund may compensate financial intermediaries for providing a variety of services to shareholders. "Financial intermediaries" include affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Fund, its service providers or their respective affiliates. This section and the following section briefly describe how financial intermediaries may be paid for providing these services.
The Fund generally pays financial intermediaries a fee that is based on the assets of the Fund that are attributable to investments by customers of the financial intermediary. The services for which financial intermediaries are compensated may include record-keeping, transaction processing for shareholders' accounts and other shareholder services. In addition to these payments, your financial intermediary may charge you account fees, transaction fees for buying or redeeming shares of the Fund, or other fees for servicing your account. Your financial intermediary should provide a schedule of its fees and services to you upon request.
The Fund does not pay these service fees on shares purchased directly. In addition to payments made directly to financial intermediaries by the Fund, the Adviser or its affiliates may, at their own expense, pay financial intermediaries for these and other services to Fund shareholders, as described in the section below.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
From time to time, the Adviser and/or its affiliates, in their discretion, may make payments to certain affiliated or unaffiliated financial intermediaries to compensate them for the costs associated with distribution, marketing, administration and shareholder servicing support. These payments may be in addition to any Rule 12b-1 fees that are reflected in the fees and expenses listed in the fee table section of this prospectus. These payments are sometimes characterized as "revenue sharing" payments and are made out of the Adviser's and/or its affiliates' own legitimate profits or other resources, and are not paid by the Fund. A financial intermediary may provide these services with respect to Fund shares sold or held through programs such as retirement plans, qualified tuition programs, fund supermarkets, fee-based advisory or wrap fee programs, bank trust programs, and insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. In addition, financial intermediaries may receive payments for making shares of the Fund available to their customers or registered representatives, including providing the Fund with "shelf space," placing it on a preferred or recommended fund list, or promoting the Fund in certain sales programs that are sponsored by financial intermediaries. To the extent permitted by SEC and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority rules and other applicable laws and regulations, the Adviser and/or its affiliates may pay or allow other promotional incentives or payments to financial intermediaries. For more information please see "Payments to Financial Intermediaries" in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information.
The level of payments to individual financial intermediaries varies in any given year and may be negotiated on the basis of sales of Fund shares, the amount of Fund assets serviced by the financial intermediary or the quality of the financial intermediary's relationship with the Adviser and/or its affiliates. These payments may be more or less than the payments received by the financial intermediaries from other mutual funds and may influence a financial intermediary to favor the sales of certain funds or share classes over others. In certain instances, the payments could be significant and may cause a conflict of interest for your financial intermediary. Any such payments will not change the net asset value or price of the Fund's shares. Please contact your financial intermediary for information about any payments it may receive in connection with the sale of Fund shares or the provision of services to Fund shareholders, as well as information about any fees and/or commissions it charges.
DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES
The Fund has adopted a distribution plan under Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, for Investor Class Shares that allows the Fund to pay distribution and service fees for the sale and distribution of its shares, and for services provided to shareholders. Because these fees are paid out of the Fund's assets continuously, over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges. The maximum annual distribution fee for the Fund's Investor Class Shares is 0.25% .
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
The Fund seeks to declare quarterly dividends at fixed rates approved by the Fund's Board. To the extent that the amount of the Fund's net investment income and short-term capital gains is less than the approved fixed rate, some of its dividends may be paid from net capital gains or as a return of shareholder capital.
To the extent the amount of the Fund's net investment income and short-term capital gains exceeds the approved fixed rate, the Fund may pay additional dividends. An additional distribution of net capital gains realized by the Fund, if any, may be made annually; provided, however, that no more than one distribution of net capital gains shall be made with respect to any one taxable year of the Fund (other than a permitted, supplemental distribution which does not exceed 10% of the aggregate amount distributed for such taxable year). If you own Fund shares on the Fund's record date, you will be entitled to receive the distribution. The Fund's Board will periodically revisit this dividend policy and will make changes if necessary in accordance with the shareholder's best interests.
You will receive dividends and distributions in the form of additional Fund shares unless you elect to receive payment in cash. To elect cash payment, you must notify the Fund in writing prior to the date of the distribution. Your election will be effective for dividends and distributions paid after the Fund receives your written notice. To cancel your election, simply send the Fund written notice.
TAXES
PLEASE CONSULT YOUR TAX ADVISOR REGARDING YOUR SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ABOUT FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL INCOME TAXES. Below is a summary of some important tax issues that affect the Fund and its shareholders. This summary is based on current tax laws, which may change.
The Fund will distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any. The dividends and distributions you receive may be subject to federal, state and local taxation, depending upon your tax situation. Distributions you receive from the Fund may be taxable whether or not you reinvest them. Income distributions other than distributions of qualified dividend income, are generally taxable at ordinary income tax rates. Capital gains distributions and distributions of qualified dividend income are generally taxable at the rates applicable to long-term capital gains. If the Fund distributes more than its net investment income and net capital gains, the excess generally would be treated as a nontaxable return of capital that would reduce your cost basis in your Fund shares and would increase your capital gain or decrease your capital loss when you sell your shares.
Each sale of Fund shares may be a taxable event. The gain or loss on the sale of Fund shares generally will be treated as a short term capital gain or loss if you held the shares for 12 months or less or a long term capital gain or loss if you held the shares for longer.
To the extent that the Fund invests in foreign securities, it may be subject to foreign withholding taxes with respect to dividends or interest the Fund received from sources in foreign countries. The Fund may elect to treat some of those taxes as a distribution to shareholders, which would allow shareholders to offset some of their U.S. federal income tax.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT TAXES IS IN THE SAI.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The table that follows presents performance information about Investor Class Shares of the Fund. The information is intended to help you understand the Fund's financial performance for the past five fiscal years. Some of this information reflects financial information for a single Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that you would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the Fund, assuming you reinvested all of your dividends and distributions. The information provided below has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund. The financial statements and the unqualified opinion of Ernst & Young LLP are included in the 2010 Annual Report of the Fund, which is available upon request by calling the Fund at 1-866-342-7058.
YEAR ENDED JULY 31, ------------------------------------ ---- ---------------------------- -------- REAVES SELECT RESEARCH FUND 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 ------------------------------------ ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $XX $10.96 $12.73 $11.81 $11.57 ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- Income from Operations: Net Investment Income(1) XX 0.17 0.27 0.19 0.22 Net Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments XX (3.44) 0.04(2) 1.86 0.83 ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- Total From Operations XX (3.27) 0.31 2.05 1.05 ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- Dividends and Distributions from: Net Investment Income XX (0.17) (0.26) (0.19) (0.22) Net Realized Gains XX (0.99) (1.83) (0.93) (0.59) ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- Total Dividends and Distributions XX (1.16) (2.09) (1.12) (0.81) ---- ----------- -------- ------- -------- Net Asset Value, End of Period $XX $6.53 $10.96 $12.74 $11.81 ==== =========== ======== ======= ======== Total Return(3) XX% (28.60)%(4) 1.05% 18.09% 9.49%(4) ==== =========== ======== ======= ======== Ratios and Supplemental Data Net Assets, End of Period (Thousands) $XX $2,699 $5,376 $4,332 $3,074 Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (including waivers and reimbursements, excluding XX% 1.55% 1.40% 1.44% 1.65% fees paid indirectly) Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (excluding waivers, reimbursements and fees paid XX% 1.68% 1.40% 1.44% 1.65% indirectly) Ratio of Net Investment Income to Average Net Assets XX% 2.53% 2.19% 1.53% 1.87% Portfolio Turnover Rate XX% 72% 66% 84% 54% |
1 Per share data calculated using average shares method.
2 The amount shown for the year ended July 31, 2008 for a share outstanding
does not accord with aggregate net losses on investments for that period
because of the sales and repurchases of the Fund shares in relation to the
fluctuating market value of investments of the Fund.
3 Total return is for the period indicated and has not been annualized. Returns
shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on
Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
4 Total return would have been lower had certain fees not been waived by the
Adviser during the period.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
REAVES SELECT RESEARCH FUND
INVESTMENT ADVISER
W.H. Reaves & Co., Inc.
10 Exchange Place
18th Floor
Jersey City, New Jersey 07302
DISTRIBUTOR
SEI Investments Distribution Co.
One Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND IS AVAILABLE, WITHOUT CHARGE, THROUGH THE FOLLOWING:
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ("SAI"): The SAI includes detailed information about the Fund and The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II. The SAI is on file with the SEC and is incorporated by reference into this prospectus. This means that the SAI, for legal purposes, is a part of this prospectus.
Annual and Semi-Annual Reports: These reports contain information from the Fund's managers about investment strategies, and recent market conditions and trends and their impact on Fund performance. The reports also contain more information about the Fund's holdings and detailed financial information about the Fund.
TO OBTAIN AN SAI, ANNUAL OR SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT, OR MORE INFORMATION:
BY TELEPHONE: 1-866-342-7058
BY INTERNET: www.whreaves.com BY MAIL: Reaves Select Research Fund P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, MO 64121-9009 FROM THE SEC: You can also obtain the SAI, Annual and Semi-Annual Reports, as |
well as other information about The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II, from the
EDGAR Database on the SEC's website at: http://www.sec.gov. You may review and
copy documents at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, DC (for
information on the operation of the Public Reference Room, call 202-942-8090).
You may request documents by mail from the SEC, upon payment of a duplicating
fee, by writing to: U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Public Reference
Section, Washington, DC 20549-0102. You may also obtain this information, upon
payment of a duplicating fee, by e-mailing the SEC at the following address:
publicinfo@sec.gov.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II'S INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT REGISTRATION NUMBER
IS 811-07102.
[INSERT CODE]
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
CHAMPLAIN MID CAP FUND
ADVISOR CLASS SHARES (CIPMX)
CHAMPLAIN SMALL COMPANY FUND
ADVISOR CLASS SHARES (CIPSX)
A SERIES OF THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
CHAMPLAIN INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LLC
This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") is not a prospectus. This SAI is intended to provide additional information regarding the activities and operations of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II (the "Trust"), the Champlain Mid Cap Fund (the "Mid Cap Fund") and the Champlain Small Company Fund (the "Small Company Fund") (each a "Fund" and together, the "Funds"). This SAI is incorporated by reference into and should be read in conjunction with the Prospectus dated November 29, 2010. Capitalized terms not defined herein are defined in the Prospectus. The Funds' financial statements and financial highlights including notes thereto, and the report of Ernst & Young LLP for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010 are contained in the 2010 Annual Report to Shareholders and are incorporated by reference into and are deemed to be part of this SAI. A copy of the Funds' 2010 Annual Report to Shareholders accompanies the delivery of this SAI. A Prospectus or Annual Report may be obtained by writing the Trust at P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 or calling toll-free 1-866-773-3238.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THE TRUST .................................................................. X ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES ............ XX DESCRIPTION OF PERMITTED INVESTMENTS ....................................... XX INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS ..................................................... XX THE ADVISER ................................................................ XX THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ..................................................... XX THE ADMINISTRATOR .......................................................... XX THE DISTRIBUTOR ............................................................ XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ....................................... XX THE TRANSFER AGENT ......................................................... XX THE CUSTODIAN .............................................................. XX INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM .............................. XX LEGAL COUNSEL .............................................................. XX TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST ......................................... XX PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES ............................................ XX DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE ........................................... XX TAXES ...................................................................... XX FUND TRANSACTIONS .......................................................... XX PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ......................................................... XX DESCRIPTION OF SHARES ...................................................... XX SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY ...................................................... XX LIMITATION OF TRUSTEES' LIABILITY .......................................... XX i |
PROXY VOTING ............................................................... XX CODES OF ETHICS ............................................................ XX 5% AND 25% SHAREHOLDERS .................................................... XX APPENDIX A -- DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS ....................................... A-1 APPENDIX B -- PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ......................... B-1 November 29, 2010 [INSERT CODE] |
THE TRUST
GENERAL. The Funds are a separate series of the Trust. The Trust is an open-end investment management company established under Massachusetts law as a Massachusetts voluntary association (commonly known as a business trust) under a Declaration of Trust dated July 24, 1992, as amended and restated as of February 18, 2004 and August 10, 2004. Prior to August 10, 2004, the Trust's name was The Arbor Fund. The Declaration of Trust permits the Trust to offer separate series ("funds") of shares of beneficial interest ("shares"). The Trust reserves the right to create and issue shares of additional funds. Each fund is a separate mutual fund, and each share of each fund represents an equal proportionate interest in that fund. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any fund and all assets of such fund belong solely to that fund and would be subject to liabilities related thereto. Each Fund pays its (i) operating expenses, including fees of its service providers, expenses of preparing prospectuses, proxy solicitation material and reports to shareholders, costs of custodial services and registering its shares under federal and state securities laws, pricing and insurance expenses, brokerage costs, interest charges, taxes and organization expenses and (ii) pro rata share of the Fund's other expenses, including audit and legal expenses. Expenses attributable to a specific fund shall be payable solely out of the assets of that fund. Expenses not attributable to a specific fund are allocated across all of the funds on the basis of relative net assets. The other funds of the Trust are described in one or more separate Statements of Additional Information.
DESCRIPTION OF MULTIPLE CLASSES OF SHARES. The Trust is authorized to offer shares of the Mid Cap Fund in Advisor Shares and the Small Company Fund in Institutional Shares or Advisor Shares; however, the Small Company Fund currently only offers Advisor Shares. In addition, Advisor Shares of the Small Company Fund are closed to investments by new shareholders and financial adviser platforms, other than those by financial advisers with existing clients in the Fund and from clients of retirement or 529 plan providers. The Small Company Fund reserves the right to permit additional investments on a case-by-case basis as deemed appropriate by and at the sole discretion of Champlain Investment Partners, LLC (the "Adviser"). The different classes provide for variations in sales charges, certain distribution and shareholder servicing expenses and in the minimum initial investment requirements. Minimum investment requirements and investor eligibility are described in the Prospectus. For more information on shareholder servicing and distribution expenses, see the "The Distributor."
VOTING RIGHTS. Each shareholder of record is entitled to one vote for each share held on the record date for the meeting. Each Fund will vote separately on matters relating solely to it. As a Massachusetts voluntary association, the Trust is not required, and does not intend, to hold annual meetings of shareholders. Approval of shareholders will be sought, however, for certain changes in the operation of the Trust and for the election of Trustees under certain circumstances. Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees have the power to liquidate the Funds without shareholder approval. While the Trustees have no present intention of exercising this power, they may do so if the Funds fail to reach a viable size within a reasonable amount of time or for such other reasons as may be determined by the Board of Trustees.
In addition, a Trustee may be removed by the remaining Trustees or by shareholders at a special meeting called upon written request of shareholders owning at least 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust. In the event that such a meeting is requested, the Trust will provide appropriate assistance and information to the shareholders requesting the meeting.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
Each Fund's investment objectives and principal investment strategies are described in the Funds' Prospectus. The following information supplements, and should be read in conjunction with, the Prospectuses. For a description of certain permitted investments discussed below, see "Description of Permitted Investments" in this SAI.
CHAMPLAIN MID CAP FUND. The Fund seeks capital appreciation. This goal is fundamental, and may not be changed by the Board of Trustees without the consent of shareholders. There can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to achieve its investment objective. The Fund is classified as a "diversified" investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act").
As its principal investment strategy, the Fund invests primarily in securities of medium-sized companies as described in the Prospectus. Consistent with Rule 35d-1 of the 1940 Act regarding the use of certain mutual fund names, the Fund has adopted a
"non-fundamental" policy to invest at least 80% of its net assets plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, under normal circumstances, in securities of medium-sized companies.
CHAMPLAIN SMALL COMPANY FUND. The Fund seeks capital appreciation. This goal is fundamental, and may not be changed by the Board of Trustees without the consent of shareholders. There can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to achieve its investment objective. The Fund is classified as a "diversified" investment company under the 1940 Act.
As its principal investment strategy, the Fund invests primarily in securities of small companies as described in the Prospectus. Consistent with Rule 35d-1 of the 1940 Act regarding the use of certain mutual fund names, the Fund has adopted a "fundamental" policy to invest at least 80% of its net assets plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, under normal circumstances, in securities of small companies. This fundamental policy may not be changed by the Fund's Board of Trustees without the consent of shareholders.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE. Portfolio turnover rate is defined under U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") rules as the value of the securities purchased or securities sold, excluding all securities whose maturities at the time of acquisition were one-year or less, divided by the average monthly value of such securities owned during the year. Based on this definition, instruments with remaining maturities of less than one-year are excluded from the calculation of the portfolio turnover rate. Instruments excluded from the calculation of portfolio turnover generally would include the futures contracts in which the Funds may invest since such contracts generally have remaining maturities of less than one-year. The Funds may at times hold investments in other short-term instruments, such as repurchase agreements, which are excluded for purposes of computing portfolio turnover. For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010 the portfolio turnover rates for the Funds were as follows:
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATES ----------------------------------------------------------- FUND 2009 2010 ----------------------------------------------------------- Champlain Mid Cap Fund 55% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------- Champlain Small Company Fund 48% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------- |
DESCRIPTION OF PERMITTED INVESTMENTS
The following are descriptions of the permitted investments and investment practices and the associated risk factors. Each Fund will only invest in any of the following instruments or engage in any of the following investment practices if such investment or activity is consistent with the Fund's investment objective and permitted by the Fund's stated investment policies.
AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ("ADRS"). ADRs as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. A custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home country holds the underlying shares in trust. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. ADRs are subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. European Depositary Receipts are similar to ADRs, except that they are typically issued by European banks or trust companies.
ADRs can be sponsored or unsponsored. While these types are similar, there are differences regarding a holder's rights and obligations and the practices of market participants. A depository may establish an unsponsored facility without participation by (or acquiescence of) the underlying issuer; typically, however, the depository requests a letter of non-objection from the underlying issuer prior to establishing the facility. Holders of unsponsored depositary receipts generally bear all the costs of the facility. The depository usually charges fees upon the deposit and withdrawal of the underlying securities, the conversion of dividends into U.S. dollars or other currency, the disposition of non-cash distributions, and the performance of other services. Sponsored depositary receipt facilities are created in generally the same manner as unsponsored facilities, except that sponsored depositary receipts are established jointly by a depository and the underlying issuer through a deposit agreement. The deposit agreement sets out the rights and responsibilities of the underlying issuer, the depository, and the depositary receipt holders.
With sponsored facilities, the underlying issuer typically bears some of the costs of the depositary receipts (such as dividend payment fees of the depository), although most sponsored depositary receipts holders may bear costs such as deposit and withdrawal fees. Depositories of most sponsored depositary receipts agree to distribute notices of shareholder meetings, voting instructions, and other shareholder communications and information to the depositary receipt holders at the underlying issuer's request. The depositary of an unsponsored facility frequently is under no obligation to distribute shareholder communications received from the issuer of the deposited security or to pass through, to the holders of the receipts, voting rights with respect to the deposited securities.
EQUITY SECURITIES. Equity securities represent ownership interests in a company and consist of common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to acquire common stock, and securities convertible into common stock. Investments in equity securities in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. Fluctuations in the value of equity securities in which the Fund invests will cause the net asset value of the Fund to fluctuate. The Fund purchases equity securities traded in the U.S. on registered exchanges or the over-the-counter market. Equity securities are described in more detail below:
o COMMON STOCK. Common stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock take precedence over the claims of those who own common stock.
o PREFERRED STOCK. Preferred stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer that pays dividends at a specified rate and that has precedence over common stock in the payment of dividends. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds take precedence over the claims of those who own preferred and common stock.
o WARRANTS. Warrants are instruments that entitle the holder to buy an equity security at a specific price for a specific period of time. Changes in the value of a warrant do not necessarily correspond to changes in the value of its underlying security. The price of a warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital appreciation as well as capital loss. Warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the underlying security and do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuing company. A warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date. These factors can make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.
o CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES. Convertible securities are bonds, debentures, notes, preferred stocks or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio. A convertible security may also be called for redemption or conversion by the issuer after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including a specified price) established upon issue. If a convertible security held by the Fund is called for redemption or conversion, the Fund could be required to tender it for redemption, convert it into the underlying common stock, or sell it to a third party.
Convertible securities generally have less potential for gain or loss than common stocks. Convertible securities generally provide yields higher than the underlying common stocks, but generally lower than comparable non-convertible securities. Because of this higher yield, convertible securities generally sell at a price above their "conversion value," which is the current market value of the stock to be received upon conversion. The difference between this conversion value and the price of convertible securities will vary over time depending on changes in the value of the underlying common stocks and interest rates. When the underlying common stocks decline in value, convertible securities will tend not to decline to the same extent because of the interest or dividend payments and the repayment of principal at maturity for certain types of convertible securities. However, securities that are convertible other than at the option of the holder generally do not limit the potential for loss to the same extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. When the underlying common stocks rise in value, the value of convertible securities may also be expected to increase. At the same time, however, the difference between the market value of convertible securities and their conversion value will narrow, which means that the value of convertible securities will generally not increase to the same extent as the value of the underlying common stocks. Because convertible securities may also be interest-rate sensitive, their value may increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. Convertible securities are also subject to credit risk, and are often lower-quality securities.
o SMALL AND MEDIUM CAPITALIZATION ISSUERS. Investing in equity securities of small and medium capitalization companies often involves greater risk than is customarily associated with investments in larger capitalization companies. This increased risk may be due to the greater business risks of smaller size, limited markets and financial resources, narrow product lines and frequent lack of depth of management. The securities of smaller companies are often traded in the over- the-counter market and even if listed on a national securities exchange may not be traded in volumes typical for that exchange. Consequently, the securities of smaller companies are less likely to be liquid, may have limited market stability, and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than securities of larger, more established growth companies or the market averages in general.
MONEY MARKET SECURITIES. Money market securities include: short-term U.S. government securities; custodial receipts evidencing separately traded interest and principal components of securities issued by the U.S. Treasury; commercial paper rated in the highest short-term rating category by a nationally recognized statistical ratings organization ("NRSRO"), such as Standard & Poor's Rating Service ("S&P") or Moody's Investor Services ("Moody's"), or determined by the Adviser to be of comparable quality at the time of purchase; short-term bank obligations (certificates of deposit, time deposits and bankers' acceptances) of U.S. commercial banks with assets of at least $1 billion as of the end of their most recent fiscal year; and repurchase agreements involving such securities. Each of these money market securities are described below. For a description of ratings, see "Appendix A -- Description of Ratings" to this SAI.
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES - The Fund may invest in U.S. government securities. Securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities include U.S. Treasury securities, which are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury and which differ only in their interest rates, maturities, and times of issuance. U.S. Treasury bills have initial maturities of one-year or less; U.S. Treasury notes have initial maturities of one to ten years; and U.S. Treasury bonds generally have initial maturities of greater than ten years. Certain U.S. government securities are issued or guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government including, but not limited to, obligations of U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities such as Fannie Mae, the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae"), the Small Business Administration, the Federal Farm Credit Administration, the Federal Home Loan Banks, Banks for Cooperatives (including the Central Bank for Cooperatives), the Federal Land Banks, the Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Federal Financing Bank, the Student Loan Marketing Association, the National Credit Union Administration and the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac).
Some obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies and instrumentalities, including, for example, Ginnie Mae pass-through certificates, are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury. Other obligations issued by or guaranteed by federal agencies, such as those securities issued by Fannie Mae, are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to purchase certain obligations of the federal agency, while other obligations issued by or guaranteed by federal agencies, such as those of the Federal Home Loan Banks, are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, while the U.S. government provides financial support to such U.S. government-sponsored federal agencies, no assurance can be given that the U.S. government will always do so, since the U.S. government is not so obligated by law. U.S. Treasury notes and bonds typically pay coupon interest semi-annually and repay the principal at maturity.
On September 7, 2008, the U.S. Treasury announced a federal takeover of Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac, placing the two federal instrumentalities in conservatorship. Under the takeover, the U.S. Treasury agreed to acquire $1 billion of senior preferred stock of each instrumentality and obtained warrants for the purchase of common stock of each instrumentality (the "Senior Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement" or "Agreement"). Under the Agreement, the U.S. Treasury pledged to provide up to $200 billion per instrumentality as needed, including the contribution of cash capital to the instrumentalities in the event their liabilities exceed their assets. This was intended to ensure that the instrumentalities maintain a positive net worth and meet their financial obligations, preventing mandatory triggering of receivership. On December 24, 2009, the U.S. Treasury announced that it was amending the Agreement to allow the $200 billion cap on the U.S. Treasury's funding commitment to increase as necessary to accommodate any cumulative reduction in net worth over the next three years. As a result of this Agreement, the investments of holders, including the Fund, of mortgage-backed securities and other obligations issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are protected.
o U.S. TREASURY OBLIGATIONS. U.S. Treasury obligations consist of bills, notes and bonds issued by the U.S. Treasury and separately traded interest and principal component parts of such obligations that are transferable through the federal book-entry system known as Separately Traded Registered Interest and Principal Securities ("STRIPS") and Treasury Receipts ("TRs").
o RECEIPTS. Interests in separately traded interest and principal component parts of U. S. government obligations that are issued by banks or brokerage firms and are created by depositing U. S. government obligations into a special account at a custodian bank. The custodian holds the interest and principal payments for the benefit of the registered owners of the certificates or receipts. The custodian arranges for the issuance of the certificates or receipts evidencing ownership and maintains the register. TRs and STRIPS are interests in accounts sponsored by the U. S. Treasury. Receipts are sold as zero coupon securities.
o U.S. GOVERNMENT ZERO COUPON SECURITIES. STRIPS and receipts are sold as zero coupon securities, that is, fixed income securities that have been stripped of their unmatured interest coupons. Zero coupon securities are sold at a (usually substantial) discount and redeemed at face value at their maturity date without interim cash payments of interest or principal. The amount of this discount is accreted over the life of the security, and the accretion constitutes the income earned on the security for both accounting and tax purposes. Because of these features, the market prices of zero coupon securities are generally more volatile than the market prices of securities that have similar maturity but that pay interest periodically. Zero coupon securities are likely to respond to a greater degree to interest rate changes than are non-zero coupon securities with similar maturity and credit qualities.
o U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCIES. Some obligations issued or guaranteed by agencies of the U. S. government are supported by the full faith and credit of the U. S. Treasury, others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the Treasury, while still others are supported only by the credit of the instrumentality. Guarantees of principal by agencies or instrumentalities of the U. S. government may be a guarantee of payment at the maturity of the obligation so that in the event of a default prior to maturity there might not be a market and thus no means of realizing on the obligation prior to maturity. Guarantees as to the timely payment of principal and interest do not extend to the value or yield of these securities nor to the value of the Fund's shares.
COMMERCIAL PAPER. Commercial paper is the term used to designate unsecured short-term promissory notes issued by corporations and other entities. Maturities on these issues vary from a few to 270 days.
OBLIGATIONS OF DOMESTIC BANKS, FOREIGN BANKS AND FOREIGN BRANCHES OF U.S. BANKS. The Fund may invest in obligations issued by banks and other savings institutions. Investments in bank obligations include obligations of domestic branches of foreign banks and foreign branches of domestic banks. Such investments in domestic branches of foreign banks and foreign branches of domestic banks may involve risks that are different from investments in securities of domestic branches of U.S. banks. These risks may include future unfavorable political and economic developments, possible withholding taxes on interest income, seizure or nationalization of foreign deposits, currency controls, interest limitations, or other governmental restrictions which might affect the payment of principal or interest on the securities held by the Fund. Additionally, these institutions may be subject to less stringent reserve requirements and to different accounting, auditing, reporting and recordkeeping requirements than those applicable to domestic branches of U.S. banks. Bank obligations include the following:
o BANKERS' ACCEPTANCES. Bankers' acceptances are bills of exchange or time drafts drawn on and accepted by a commercial bank. Corporations use bankers' acceptances to finance the shipment and storage of goods and to furnish dollar exchange. Maturities are generally six months or less.
o CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT. Certificates of deposit are interest-bearing instruments with a specific maturity. They are issued by banks and savings and loan institutions in exchange for the deposit of funds and normally can be traded in the secondary market prior to maturity. Certificates of deposit with penalties for early withdrawal will be considered illiquid.
o TIME DEPOSITS. Time deposits are non-negotiable receipts issued by a bank in exchange for the deposit of funds. Like a certificate of deposit, it earns a specified rate of interest over a definite period of time; however, it cannot be traded in the secondary market. Time deposits with a withdrawal penalty or that mature in more than seven days are considered to be illiquid securities.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. The Funds may enter into repurchase agreements with financial institutions. A repurchase agreement is an agreement under which a fund acquires a fixed income security (generally a security issued by the U.S. government or an agency thereof, a banker's acceptance, or a certificate of deposit) from a commercial bank, broker, or dealer, and simultaneously agrees to resell such security to the seller at an agreed upon price and date (normally, the next business day). Because the security purchased constitutes collateral for the repurchase obligation, a repurchase agreement may be considered a loan that is collateralized by the security purchased. The acquisition of a repurchase agreement may be deemed to be an acquisition of the underlying securities as long as the obligation of the seller to repurchase the securities is collateralized fully. The Funds follow certain procedures designed to minimize the risks inherent in such agreements. These procedures include effecting repurchase transactions only with creditworthy financial institutions whose condition will be continually monitored by the Adviser. The repurchase agreements entered into by the Funds will provide that the underlying collateral at all times shall have a value at least equal to 102% of the resale price stated in the agreement and consist only of securities permissible under Section 101(47)(A)(i) of the Bankruptcy Code (the Adviser monitors compliance with this requirement). Under all repurchase agreements entered into by the Funds, the custodian or its agent must take possession of the underlying collateral. In the event of a default or bankruptcy by a selling financial institution, the Funds will seek to liquidate such collateral. However, the exercising of the Fund's right to liquidate such collateral could involve certain costs or delays and, to the extent that proceeds from any sale upon a default of the obligation to repurchase were less than the repurchase price, the Funds could suffer a loss. It is the current policy of the Funds, not to invest in repurchase agreements that do not mature within seven days if any such investment, together with any other illiquid assets held by those Funds, amounts to more than 15% of the Fund's total assets. The investments of the Funds in repurchase agreements, at times, may be substantial when, in the view of the Adviser, liquidity or other considerations so warrant.
INVESTMENT COMPANY SHARES. The Fund may invest in shares of other investment companies, to the extent permitted by applicable law and subject to certain restrictions. These investment companies typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by the Fund. The Fund's purchase of such investment company securities results in the layering of expenses, such that shareholders would indirectly bear a proportionate share of the operating expenses of such investment companies, including advisory fees, in addition to paying the Fund's expenses. Unless an exception is available, Section 12(d)(1)(A) of the 1940 Act prohibits a fund from (i) acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any one investment company, (ii) investing more than 5% of its total assets in any one investment company, and (iii) investing more than 10% of its total assets in all investment companies combined, including its ETF investments.
For hedging or other purposes, the Fund may invest in investment companies that seek to track the composition and/or performance of specific indexes or portions of specific indexes. Certain of these investment companies, known as exchange-traded funds, are traded on a securities exchange. (See "Exchange Traded Funds" above). The market prices of index-based investments will fluctuate in accordance with changes in the underlying portfolio securities of the investment company and also due to supply and demand of the investment company's shares on the exchange upon which the shares are traded. Index-based investments may not replicate or otherwise match the composition or performance of their specified index due to transaction costs, among other things.
Pursuant to orders issued by the SEC to each of certain iShares, Market Vectors, Vanguard, ProShares, PowerShares, Claymore, Direxion, Wisdom Tree, Rydex, First Trust and SPDR exchange-traded funds (collectively, the "ETFs") and procedures approved by the Board, the Funds may invest in the ETFs in excess of the 3% limit described above, provided that the Funds otherwise comply with the conditions of the SEC order, as it may be amended, and any other applicable investment limitations. Neither the ETFs nor their investment advisers make any representations regarding the advisability of investing in the ETFs.
SECURITIES LENDING. The Funds may lend portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other financial organizations that meet capital and other credit requirements or other criteria established by the Funds' Board of Trustees. These loans, if and when made, may not exceed 33 1/3% of the total asset value of the Funds (including the loan collateral). The Funds will not lend portfolio securities to their Adviser, or their affiliates unless permissible under the 1940 Act and the rules and promulgations thereunder. Loans of portfolio securities will be fully collateralized by cash, letters of credit or U.S. government securities, and the collateral will be maintained in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities by marking to market daily. Any gain or loss in the market price of the securities loaned that might occur during the term of the loan would be for the account of the Funds.
The Funds may pay a part of the interest earned from the investment of collateral, or other fee, to an unaffiliated third party for acting as the Fund's securities lending agent.
By lending its securities, a Fund may increase its income by receiving payments from the borrower that reflect the amount of any interest or any dividends payable on the loaned securities as well as by either investing cash collateral received from the borrower in short-term instruments or obtaining a fee from the borrower when U.S. government securities or letters of credit are used as collateral. The Funds will adhere to the following conditions whenever its portfolio securities are loaned: (i) the Fund must receive at least 100% cash collateral or equivalent securities of the type discussed in the preceding paragraph from the borrower; (ii) the borrower must increase such collateral whenever the market value of the securities rises above the level of such collateral; (iii) the Fund must be able to terminate the loan on demand; (iv) the Fund must receive reasonable interest on the loan, as well as any dividends, interest or other distributions on the loaned securities and any increase in market value; (v) the Fund may pay only reasonable fees in connection with the loan (which fees may include fees payable to the lending agent, the borrower, the Fund's administrator and the custodian); and (vi) voting rights on the loaned securities may pass to the borrower, provided, however, that if a material event adversely affecting the investment occurs, the Fund must terminate the loan and regain the right to vote the securities. The Board has adopted procedures reasonably designed to ensure that the foregoing criteria will be met. Loan agreements involve certain risks in the event of default or insolvency of the borrower, including possible delays or restrictions upon the Fund's ability to recover the loaned securities or dispose of the collateral for the loan, which could give rise to loss because of adverse market action, expenses and/or delays in connection with the disposition of the underlying securities.
FUTURES AND OPTIONS ON FUTURES. Futures contracts provide for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified amount of a specific security at a specified future time and at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in exchange for a premium, to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price during the term of the option. The Funds will reduce the risk that it will be unable to close out a futures contract by only entering into futures contracts that are traded on a national futures exchange regulated by the Commodities Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"). The Funds may use futures contracts and related options for: bona fide hedging; attempting to offset changes in the value of securities held or expected to be acquired or be disposed of; attempting to minimize fluctuations in foreign currencies; attempting to gain exposure to a particular market, index or instrument; or other risk management purposes. To the extent futures and/or options on futures are employed by the Funds, such use will be in accordance with Rule 4.5 of the Commodity Exchange Act ("CEA"). The Trust, on behalf of the Funds, has filed a notice of eligibility for exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" in accordance with Rule 4.5 and therefore, the Funds are not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool operator under the CEA.
An index futures contract is a bilateral agreement pursuant to which two parties agree to take or make delivery of an amount of cash equal to a specified dollar amount times the difference between the index value at the close of trading of the contract and the price at which the futures contract is originally struck. No physical delivery of the securities comprising the index is made; generally contracts are closed out prior to the expiration date of the contract.
When a Fund purchases or sells a futures contract, or sells an option thereon, the Fund is required to "cover" its position in order to limit leveraging and related risks. To cover its position, the Fund may segregate (and marked-to-market on a daily basis) cash or liquid securities that, when added to any amounts deposited with a futures commission merchant as margin, are equal to the market value of the futures contract or otherwise "cover" its position in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act or the rules and SEC interpretations thereunder. The segregated account functions as a practical limit on the amount of leverage which the Fund may undertake and on the potential increase in the speculative character of the Fund's outstanding portfolio securities. Additionally, such segregated accounts will generally assure the availability of adequate funds to meet the obligations of the Fund arising from such investment activities.
A Fund may also cover its long position in a futures contract by purchasing a put option on the same futures contract with a strike price (i.e., an exercise price) as high or higher than the price of the futures contract. In the alternative, if the strike price of the put is less than the price of the futures contract, the Fund will segregate cash or liquid securities equal in value to the difference between the strike price of the put and the price of the futures contract. The Fund may also cover its long position in a futures contract by taking a short position in the instruments underlying the futures contract, or by taking positions in
instruments with prices which are expected to move relatively consistently with the futures contract. The Fund may cover its short position in a futures contract by taking a long position in the instruments underlying the futures contracts, or by taking positions in instruments with prices which are expected to move relatively consistently with the futures contract.
A Fund may cover its sale of a call option on a futures contract by taking a long position in the underlying futures contract at a price less than or equal to the strike price of the call option. In the alternative, if the long position in the underlying futures contract is established at a price greater than the strike price of the written (sold) call, the Fund may segregate cash or liquid securities equal in value to the difference between the strike price of the call and the price of the futures contract. The Fund may also cover its sale of a call option by taking positions in instruments with prices which are expected to move relatively consistently with the call option. The Fund may cover its sale of a put option on a futures contract by taking a short position in the underlying futures contract at a price greater than or equal to the strike price of the put option, or, if the short position in the underlying futures contract is established at a price less than the strike price of the written put, the Fund may segregate cash or liquid securities equal in value to the difference between the strike price of the put and the price of the futures contract. The Fund may also cover its sale of a put option by taking positions in instruments with prices which are expected to move relatively consistently with the put option.
There are significant risks associated with the Funds' use of futures contracts and related options, including the following: (1) the success of a hedging strategy may depend on the Adviser's ability to predict movements in the prices of individual securities, fluctuations in markets and movements in interest rates; (2) there may be an imperfect or no correlation between the changes in market value of the securities held by the Fund and the prices of futures and options on futures; (3) there may not be a liquid secondary market for a futures contract or option; (4) trading restrictions or limitations may be imposed by an exchange; and (5) government regulations may restrict trading in futures contracts and options on futures. In addition, some strategies reduce the Fund's exposure to price fluctuations, while others tend to increase its market exposure.
OPTIONS. The Funds may purchase and write put and call options on indices and enter into related closing transactions. A put option on a security gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying security at any time during the option period. A call option on a security gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying security at any time during the option period. The premium paid to the writer is the consideration for undertaking the obligations under the option contract.
The Funds may purchase and write put and call options on foreign currencies (traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges or over-the-counter markets) to manage its exposure to exchange rates. Call options on foreign currency written by the Funds will be "covered," which means that the Funds will own an equal amount of the underlying foreign currency.
Put and call options on indices are similar to options on securities except that options on an index give the holder the right to receive, upon exercise of the option, an amount of cash if the closing level of the underlying index is greater than (or less than, in the case of puts) the exercise price of the option. This amount of cash is equal to the difference between the closing price of the index and the exercise price of the option, expressed in dollars multiplied by a specified number. Thus, unlike options on individual securities, all settlements are in cash, and gain or loss depends on price movements in the particular market represented by the index generally, rather than the price movements in individual securities.
All options written on indices or securities must be covered. When the Funds write an option on a security, an index or a foreign currency, it will establish a segregated account containing cash or liquid securities in an amount at least equal to the market value of the option and will maintain the account while the option is open or will otherwise cover the transaction.
A Fund may trade put and call options on securities, securities indices and currencies, as the Adviser determines is appropriate in seeking the Fund's investment objective, and except as restricted by the Fund's investment limitations. See "Investment Limitations."
The initial purchase (sale) of an option contract is an "opening transaction." In order to close out an option position, the Funds may enter into a "closing transaction," which is simply the sale (purchase) of an option contract on the same security with the same exercise price and expiration date as the option contract originally opened. If a Funds is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to an option it has written, it will not be able to sell the underlying security until the option expires or the Fund delivers the security upon exercise.
The Funds may purchase put and call options on securities to protect against a decline in the market value of the securities in its portfolio or to anticipate an increase in the market value of securities that the Funds may seek to purchase in the future. The Fund purchasing put and call options pays a premium therefor. If price movements in the underlying securities are such that exercise of the options would not be profitable for the Fund, loss of the premium paid may be offset by an increase in the value of the Fund's securities or by a decrease in the cost of acquisition of securities by the Fund.
The Funds may write covered call options on securities as a means of increasing the yield on its assets and as a means of providing limited protection against decreases in its market value. When a Fund writes an option, if the underlying securities do not increase or decrease to a price level that would make the exercise of the option profitable to the holder thereof, the option generally will expire without being exercised and the Fund will realize as profit the premium received for such option. When a call option of which the Fund is the writer is exercised, the Fund will be required to sell the underlying securities to the option holder at the strike price, and will not participate in any increase in the price of such securities above the strike price. When a put option of which the Fund is the writer is exercised, the Fund will be required to purchase the underlying securities at a price in excess of the market value of such securities.
The Funds may purchase and write options on an exchange or over-the-counter. Over-the-counter options ("OTC options") differ from exchange-traded options in several respects. They are transacted directly with dealers and not with a clearing corporation, and therefore entail the risk of non-performance by the dealer. OTC options are available for a greater variety of securities and for a wider range of expiration dates and exercise prices than are available for exchange-traded options. Because OTC options are not traded on an exchange, pricing is done normally by reference to information from a market maker. It is the SEC's position that OTC options are generally illiquid.
The market value of an option generally reflects the market price of an underlying security. Other principal factors affecting market value include supply and demand, interest rates, the pricing volatility of the underlying security and the time remaining until the expiration date.
Risks associated with options transactions include: (1) the success of a
hedging strategy may depend on an ability to predict movements in the prices of
individual securities, fluctuations in markets and movements in interest rates;
(2) there may be an imperfect correlation between the movement in prices of
options and the securities underlying them; (3) there may not be a liquid
secondary market for options; and (4) while the Fund will receive a premium
when it writes covered call options, it may not participate fully in a rise in
the market value of the underlying security.
ILLIQUID SECURITIES. Illiquid securities are securities that cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business (within seven days) at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Because of their illiquid nature, illiquid securities must be priced at fair value as determined in good faith pursuant to procedures approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees. Despite such good faith efforts to determine fair value prices, the Fund's illiquid securities are subject to the risk that the security's fair value price may differ from the actual price which the Fund may ultimately realize upon its sale or disposition. Difficulty in selling illiquid securities may result in a loss or may be costly to the Fund. Under the supervision of the Trust's Board of Trustees, each Fund's Adviser determines the liquidity of the Fund's investments. In determining the liquidity of the Fund's investments, the Adviser may consider various factors, including: (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations; (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace; (3) dealer undertakings to make a market; and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security). The Fund will not hold more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities.
RESTRICTED SECURITIES -- Restricted securities are securities that may not be
sold freely to the public absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of
1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") or an exemption from registration. As
consistent with each Fund's investment objectives, the Funds may invest in
Section 4(2) commercial paper. Section 4(2) commercial paper is issued in
reliance on an exemption from registration under Section 4(2) of the Act and is
generally sold to institutional investors who purchase for investment. Any
resale of such commercial paper must be in an exempt transaction, usually to an
institutional
investor through the issuer or investment dealers who make a market in such commercial paper. The Trust believes that Section 4(2) commercial paper is liquid to the extent it meets the criteria established by the Board of Trustees of the Trust. The Trust intends to treat such commercial paper as liquid and not subject to the investment limitations applicable to illiquid securities or restricted securities.
SHORT SALES -- Consistent with each Fund's investment objectives, the Funds may engage in short sales that are either "uncovered" or "against the box." A short sale is "against the box" if at all times during which the short position is open, the Fund owns at least an equal amount of the securities or securities convertible into, or exchangeable without further consideration for, securities of the same issue as the securities that are sold short. A short sale against the box is a taxable transaction to the Fund with respect to the securities that are sold short.
Uncovered short sales are transactions under which the Fund sells a security it does not own. To complete such a transaction, the Fund must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund then is obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing the security at the market price at the time of the replacement. The price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the security was sold by the Fund. Until the security is replaced, the Fund is required to pay the lender amounts equal to any dividends or interest that accrue during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the Fund also may be required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the security sold. The proceeds of the short sale will be retained by the broker, to the extent necessary to meet margin requirements, until the short position is closed out.
Until the Fund closes its short position or replaces the borrowed security, the Fund will: (a) maintain a segregated account containing cash or liquid securities at such a level that (i) the amount deposited in the account plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will equal the current value of the security sold short; and (ii) the amount deposited in the segregated account plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will not be less than the market value of the security at the time the security was sold short; or (b) otherwise cover the Fund's short position.
INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
FUNDAMENTAL POLICIES
In addition to each Fund's investment objective, the following investment limitations are fundamental policies of the Funds that cannot be changed without the consent of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding shares. The phrase "majority of the outstanding shares" means the vote of (i) 67% or more of the Fund's shares present at a meeting, if more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding shares, whichever is less.
Each Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities of an issuer that would cause the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification requirement for a diversified management company under the 1940 Act, the rules or regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
2. Concentrate investments in a particular industry or group of industries, as concentration is defined under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
3. Borrow money or issue senior securities (as defined under the 1940 Act), except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
4. Make loans, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
5. Purchase or sell commodities or real estate, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations
thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
6. Underwrite securities issued by other persons, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
In addition, the Small Company Fund shall:
7. Invest at least 80% of its net assets plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, under normal circumstances, in securities of small companies.
The following descriptions of certain provisions of the 1940 Act may assist investors in understanding the above policies and restrictions:
DIVERSIFICATION. Under the 1940 Act, a diversified investment management company, as to 75% of its total assets, may not purchase securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agents or instrumentalities or securities of other investment companies) if, as a result, more than 5% of its total assets would be invested in the securities of such issuer, or more than 10% of the issuer's outstanding voting securities would be held by the fund.
CONCENTRATION. The SEC has defined concentration as investing 25% or more of an investment company's total assets in an industry or group of industries, with certain exceptions.
BORROWING. The 1940 Act allows a fund to borrow from any bank (including pledging, mortgaging or hypothecating assets) in an amount up to 33 1/3% of its total assets (not including temporary borrowings not in excess of 5% of its total assets).
SENIOR SECURITIES. Senior securities may include any obligation or instrument issued by a fund evidencing indebtedness. The 1940 Act generally prohibits funds from issuing senior securities, although it does not treat certain transactions as senior securities, such as certain borrowings, short sales, reverse repurchase agreements, firm commitment agreements and standby commitments, with appropriate earmarking or segregation of assets to cover such obligation.
LENDING. Under the 1940 Act, a fund may only make loans if expressly permitted by its investment policies. The Fund's current investment policy on lending is as follows: the Fund may not make loans if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, except that the Fund may: (i) purchase or hold debt instruments in accordance with its investment objective and policies; (ii) enter into repurchase agreements; and (iii) engage in securities lending as described in its Statement of Additional Information.
UNDERWRITING. Under the 1940 Act, underwriting securities involves a fund purchasing securities directly from an issuer for the purpose of selling (distributing) them or participating in any such activity either directly or indirectly. Under the 1940 Act, a diversified fund may not make any commitment as underwriter, if immediately thereafter the amount of its outstanding underwriting commitments, plus the value of its investments in securities of issuers (other than investment companies) of which it owns more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities, exceeds 25% of the value of its total assets.
COMMODITIES AND REAL ESTATE. The 1940 Act does not directly restrict an investment company's ability to invest in commodities or real estate, but does require that every investment company have a fundamental investment policy governing such investments. The Fund has adopted a fundamental policy that would permit direct investment in commodities or real estate. However, the Fund's current investment policy is as follows: the Fund will not purchase or sell real estate, physical commodities, or commodities contracts, except that the Fund may purchase: (i) marketable securities issued by companies which own or invest in real estate (including REITs), commodities, or commodities contracts; and (ii) commodities contracts relating to financial instruments, such as financial futures contracts and options on such contracts.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL POLICIES
The following investment limitations of the Funds are non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trust's Board of Trustees without shareholder approval. These non-fundamental policies are based upon the regulations currently set forth in the 1940 Act.
Each Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities of any issuer (except securities of other investment companies, securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements involving such securities) if as a result more than 5% of the total assets of the Fund would be invested in the securities of such issuer; or (ii) acquire more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer. This restriction applies to 75% of the Fund's total assets.
2. Purchase any securities which would cause 25% or more of the total assets of the Fund to be invested in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry, provided that this limitation does not apply to investments in obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements involving such securities. For purposes of this limitation, (i) utility companies will be classified according to their services, for example, gas distribution, gas transmission, electric and telephone will each be considered a separate industry; and (ii) financial service companies will be classified according to the end users of their services, for example, automobile finance, bank finance and diversified finance will each be considered a separate industry.
3. Borrow money in an amount exceeding 33 1/3% of the value of its total assets, provided that, for purposes of this limitation, investment strategies that either obligate the Fund to purchase securities or require the Fund to segregate assets are not considered to be borrowing. Asset coverage of at least 300% is required for all borrowing, except where the Fund has borrowed money for temporary purposes in an amount not exceeding 5% of its total assets.
4. Make loans if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, except that the Fund may (i) purchase or hold debt instruments in accordance with its investment objective and policies; (ii) enter into repurchase agreements; and (iii) lend its securities.
5. Purchase or sell real estate, real estate limited partnership interests, physical commodities or commodities contracts except that the Fund may purchase (i) marketable securities issued by companies which own or invest in real estate (including real estate investment trusts), commodities or commodities contracts; and (ii) commodities contracts relating to financial instruments, such as financial futures contracts and options on such contracts.
6. Hold illiquid securities in an amount exceeding, in the aggregate, 15% of the Fund's net assets.
In addition, the Mid Cap Fund shall:
7. Under normal circumstances, invest at least 80% of its net assets, plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, in securities of medium-sized companies.
Except with respect to Funds' policies concerning borrowing and illiquid securities, if a percentage restriction is adhered to at the time of an investment, a later increase or decrease in percentage resulting from changes in values or assets will not constitute a violation of such restriction. With respect to the limitation on illiquid securities, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause a Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of illiquid instruments back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable. With respect to the limitation on borrowing, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause a Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of borrowing back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable.
THE ADVISER
GENERAL. The Adviser, Champlain Investment Partners, LLC, is a professional investment management firm registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The Adviser was established in 2004 and offers investment management services for institutions and retail clients.
ADVISORY AGREEMENT WITH THE TRUST. The Trust and the Adviser have entered into an investment advisory agreement dated November 30, 2004, as amended (the "Advisory Agreement"). Under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser serves as the investment adviser and makes investment decisions for the Funds and continuously reviews, supervises and administers the investment program of each Fund, subject to the supervision of, and policies established by, the Trustees of the Trust. After the initial two year term, the continuance of the Advisory Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of a Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Advisory Agreement or "interested persons" of any party thereto, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Advisory Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment, and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or, with respect to any Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, on not less than 30-days' nor more than 60-days' written notice to the Adviser, or by the Adviser on 90-days' written notice to the Trust. The Advisory Agreement provides that the Adviser shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard of its obligations or duties thereunder. As used in the Advisory Agreement, the terms "majority of the outstanding voting securities," "interested persons" and "assignment" have the same meaning as such terms in the 1940 Act.
ADVISORY FEES PAID TO THE ADVISER. For its services under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.90% and 0.80% of the average daily net assets of the Small Company Fund and the Mid Cap Fund, respectively. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its fees and reimburse expenses to the extent necessary in order to keep total annual fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, acquired fund fees and expenses and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 1.40% and 1.30% of the average daily net assets of the Small Company Fund and Mid Cap Fund Advisor Shares, respectively. The Adviser may discontinue all or a portion of its fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual fund operating expenses and 1.40% for the Small Company Fund or 1.30% for the Mid Cap Fund to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expense limitation reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period. For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Funds paid the Adviser the following advisory fees:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEES WAIVED AND EXPENSES CONTRACTUAL ADVISORY FEES PAID REIMBURSED BY THE ADVISER TOTAL FEES PAID TO THE ADVISER ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FUND 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mid Cap Fund $757(1) $201,209 $XX $757(1) $72,935 $XX $0(1,2) $128,274 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Small Company Fund $3,106,372 $3,992,941 $XX $37,434 $224,056 $XX $3,068,938 $3,768,885 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) For the fiscal period from June 30, 2008 to July 31, 2008.
(2) For the fiscal period ended July 31, 2008, the Adviser reimbursed the Fund
expenses in the amount of $2,836 pursuant to its waiver arrangements with
the Fund.
THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
This section includes information about the Funds' portfolio managers, including information about other accounts they manage, the dollar range of Fund shares they own and how they are compensated.
COMPENSATION. The Adviser compensates the Funds' portfolio managers for their management of the Funds. Each Fund's portfolio mangers' compensation consists of a cash base salary and a discretionary performance bonus paid in cash that is based on overall profitability, and therefore in part based on the value of the Funds' net assets and other client accounts they are managing. Each Fund's portfolio managers also receive benefits standard for all of the Adviser's employees, including health care and other insurance benefits. In addition, portfolio managers may also have an ownership stake in the Adviser which would entitle them to a portion of the pre-tax profitability of the firm.
FUND SHARES OWNED BY PORTFOLIO MANAGERS. The Funds are required to show the dollar amount range of each portfolio manager's "beneficial ownership" of shares of the Funds as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal year. Dollar amount ranges disclosed are established by the SEC. "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the 1934 Act.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- DOLLAR RANGE OF FUND SHARES(1) --------------------------------------------- NAME MID CAP FUND SMALL COMPANY FUND -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Scott T. Brayman $XX-XX $XX-XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Daniel B. Butler $XX-XX $XX-XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Van Harissis $XX-XX $XX-XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Deborah Healey $XX-XX $XX-XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- David O'Neal $XX-XX $XX-XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Finn McCoy $XX-XX $XX-XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Valuation date is July 31, 2010.
OTHER ACCOUNTS. In addition to the Funds, certain portfolio managers are responsible for the day-to-day management of certain other accounts, as listed below. The information below is provided as of July 31, 2010.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- REGISTERED OTHER POOLED INVESTMENT COMPANIES INVESTMENT VEHICLES OTHER ACCOUNTS ------------------------ ----------------------- ----------------------- NUMBER OF NUMBER OF NUMBER OF NAME ACCOUNTS TOTAL ASSETS ACCOUNTS TOTAL ASSETS ACCOUNTS TOTAL ASSETS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Scott T. Brayman XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Daniel B. Butler XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Van Harissis XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Deborah Healey XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- David O'Neal XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Finn McCoy XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) The advisory fee for XX of these accounts is based on the performance of the account. As of July 31, 2010, these XX accounts had total assets of $XX.
CONFLICTS OF INTERESTS. The portfolio managers' management of "other accounts" may give rise to potential conflicts of interest in connection with their management of the Funds' investments, on the one hand, and the investments of the other accounts, on the other. The other accounts may have the same investment objective as the Funds. Therefore, a potential conflict of interest may arise as a result of the identical investment objectives, whereby a portfolio manager could favor one account over another. Another potential conflict could include the portfolio managers' knowledge about the size, timing and possible market impact of Fund trades, whereby a portfolio manager could use this information to the advantage of other accounts and to the disadvantage of the Funds. However, the Adviser has established policies and procedures to ensure that the purchase and sale of securities among all accounts it manages are fairly and equitably allocated.
THE ADMINISTRATOR
GENERAL. SEI Investments Global Funds Services (the "Administrator"), a Delaware statutory trust, has its principal business
offices at One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. SEI Investments Management Corporation ("SIMC"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI Investments Company ("SEI Investments"), is the owner of all beneficial interest in the Administrator. SEI Investments and its subsidiaries and affiliates, including the Administrator, are leading providers of funds evaluation services, trust accounting systems, and brokerage and information services to financial institutions, institutional investors, and money managers. The Administrator and its affiliates also serve as administrator or sub-administrator to other mutual funds.
ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT WITH THE TRUST. The Trust and the Administrator have entered into an administration agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12, 2002 (the "Administration Agreement"). Under the Administration Agreement, the Administrator provides the Trust with administrative services, including regulatory reporting and all necessary office space, equipment, personnel and facilities. Pursuant to a schedule to the Administration Agreement, the Administrator also serves as the shareholder servicing agent for the Funds whereby the Administrator provides certain shareholder services to the Funds.
The Administration Agreement provides that the Administrator shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with the matters to which the Administration Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Administrator in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by it of its duties and obligations thereunder.
ADMINISTRATION FEES PAID. For its services under the Administration Agreement, the Administrator is entitled to a fee, which is detailed below in the following schedule:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEE (AS A PERCENTAGE OF AGGREGATE AVERAGE ANNUAL ASSETS) FUNDS' AVERAGE DAILY NET ASSETS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.10% First $250 million -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.08% Next $250 million -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.06% Over $500 million -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
The foregoing fee is subject to a minimum annual fee of $100,000 per fund of the Champlain funds complex plus an additional $15,000 for each additional class of shares of a fund established after the initial (1) class of shares per Fund.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Funds paid the Administrator following administration fees:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FEES WAIVED BY TOTAL FEES PAID CONTRACTUAL FEES PAID ADMINISTRATOR (AFTER WAIVERS) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ FUND 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Mid Cap Fund $87(1) $22,612 $XX $0(1) $0 $XX $87(1) $22,612 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Small Company Fund $326,149 $399,897 $XX $0 $0 $XX $326,149 $399,897 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
(1) For the fiscal period from June 30, 2008 to July 31, 2008.
THE DISTRIBUTOR
GENERAL. SEI Investments Distribution Co. (the "Distributor"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI, and the Trust are parties to a distribution agreement dated May 31, 2000 ("Distribution Agreement"). The principal business address of the Distributor is One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456.
The continuance of the Distribution Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of a Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operations of the Distribution Agreement or any related agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Distribution Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act), and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or, with respect to any Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of that Fund, upon not more than 60 days' written notice by either party. The Distribution Agreement provides that the Distributor shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard of its obligations or duties thereunder.
THE DISTRIBUTION PLAN. The Distribution Plan (the "Plan") provides that Advisor Shares of the Funds pay the Distributor an annual fee of up to a maximum amount of 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the shares. Under the Plan, the Distributor may make payments pursuant to written agreements to financial institutions and intermediaries such as banks, savings and loan associations and insurance companies including, without limit, investment counselors, broker-dealers and the Distributor's affiliates and subsidiaries (collectively, "Agents") as compensation for services and reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with distribution assistance. The Distribution Plan is characterized as a reimbursement plan since the distribution fee will be paid to the Distributor as reimbursement for, or in anticipation of, expenses incurred for distribution related activity. Investors should understand that some Agents may charge their clients fees in connection with purchases of shares or the provision shareholder services with respect to shares. The Trust intends to operate the Plan in accordance with its terms and with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") rules concerning sales charges.
The Trust has adopted the Plan in accordance with the provisions of Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, which regulates circumstances under which an investment company may directly or indirectly bear expenses relating to the distribution of its shares. Continuance of the Plan must be approved annually by a majority of the Trustees of the Trust and by a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons (as defined on the 1940 Act) of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the Plan or in any agreement related to the Plan ("Qualified Trustees"). The Plan requires that quarterly written reports of amounts spent under the Plan and the purposes of such expenditures be furnished to and reviewed by the Trustees. The Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount that may be spent thereunder without approval by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Funds. All material amendments of the Plan will require approval by a majority of the Trustees of the Trust and of the Qualified Trustees.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Funds paid the Distributor the following distribution fees:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12B-1 FEES PAID 12B-1 FEES RETAINED BY DISTRIBUTOR ---------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mid Cap Fund $237(1) $62,878 $XX $0(1) $0 $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Small Company Fund $862,880 $1,109,149 $XX $0 $0 $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) For the fiscal period from June 30, 2008 to July 31, 2008.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
The Adviser and/or its affiliates, at their discretion, may make payments from their own resources and not from Fund assets to affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Funds, their service providers or their respective affiliates, as incentives to help market and promote the Funds and/or in recognition of their distribution, marketing, administrative services, and/or processing support.
These additional payments may be made to financial intermediaries that sell Fund shares or provide services to the Fund, the Distributor or shareholders of the Funds through the financial intermediary's retail distribution channel and/or fund supermarkets. Payments may also be made through the financial intermediary's retirement, qualified tuition, fee-based advisory, wrap fee bank trust, or insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. These payments may include, but are not limited to, placing the Fund in a financial intermediary's retail distribution channel or on a preferred or recommended fund list; providing business or shareholder financial planning assistance; educating financial intermediary personnel about the Fund; providing access to sales and management representatives of the financial intermediary; promoting sales of Fund shares; providing marketing and educational support; maintaining share balances and/or for sub-accounting, administrative or shareholder transaction processing services. A financial intermediary may perform the services itself or may arrange with a third party to perform the services.
The Adviser and/or its affiliates may also make payments from their own resources to financial intermediaries for costs associated with the purchase of products or services used in connection with sales and marketing, participation in and/or presentation at conferences or seminars, sales or training programs, client and investor entertainment and other sponsored events. The costs and expenses associated with these efforts may include travel, lodging, sponsorship at educational seminars and conferences, entertainment and meals to the extent permitted by law.
Revenue sharing payments may be negotiated based on a variety of factors, including the level of sales, the amount of Fund assets attributable to investments in the Fund by financial intermediaries' customers, a flat fee or other measures as determined from time to time by the Adviser and/or its affiliates. A significant purpose of these payments is to increase the sales of Fund shares, which in turn may benefit the Adviser through increased fees as Fund assets grow.
THE TRANSFER AGENT
DST Systems, Inc., 333 W. 11(th) Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105 (the "Transfer Agent"), serves as the Funds' transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent under a transfer agency agreement with the Trust.
THE CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank National Association, 800 Nicollett Mall, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402-4302 (the "Custodian"), acts as custodian of the Funds. The Custodian holds cash, securities and other assets of the Funds as required by the 1940 Act.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Ernst & Young LLP, Two Commerce Square, 2001 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, serves as independent registered public accounting firm for the Funds. The financial statements and notes thereto incorporated by reference have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, as indicated in their report with respect thereto, and are incorporated by reference in reliance on the authority of their report as experts in accounting and auditing.
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, 1701 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-2921, serves as legal counsel to the Trust.
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST
BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES. The management and affairs of the Trust and its series, including the Funds described in this SAI, are overseen by the Trustees. The Board has approved contracts, as described above, under which certain companies provide essential management services to the Trust.
Like most mutual funds, the day-to-day business of the Trust, including the management of risk, is performed by third party service providers, such as the Adviser, Distributor and Administrator. The Trustees are responsible for overseeing the Trust's service providers and, thus, have oversight responsibility with respect to risk management performed by those service providers. Risk management seeks to identify and address risks, i.e., events or circumstances that could have material adverse effects on the business, operations, shareholder services, investment performance or reputation of the Funds. The Funds and their service providers employ a variety of processes, procedures and controls to identify various of those possible events or circumstances, to lessen the probability of their occurrence and/or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur. Each service provider is responsible for one or more discrete aspects of the Trust's business (e.g., the Adviser is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio investments) and, consequently, for managing the risks associated with that business. The Board has emphasized to the Funds' service providers the importance of maintaining vigorous risk management.
The Trustees' role in risk oversight begins before the inception of a Fund, at which time certain of the Fund's service providers present the Board with information concerning the investment objectives, strategies and risks of the Fund as well as proposed investment limitations for the Fund. Additionally, the Fund's Adviser provides the Board with an overview of, among other things, its investment philosophy, brokerage practices and compliance infrastructure. Thereafter, the Board continues its oversight function as various personnel, including the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer, as well as personnel of the Adviser and other service providers such as the Fund's independent accountants, make periodic reports to the Audit Committee or to the Board with respect to various aspects of risk management. The Board and the Audit Committee oversee efforts by management and service providers to manage risks to which the Funds may be exposed.
The Board is responsible for overseeing the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Funds by the Adviser and receives information about those services at its regular meetings. In addition, on an annual basis, in connection with its consideration of whether to renew the Advisory Agreement with the Adviser, the Board meets with the Adviser to review such services. Among other things, the Board regularly considers the Adviser's adherence to the Funds' investment restrictions and compliance with various Fund policies and procedures and with applicable securities regulations. The Board also reviews information about the Funds' investments, including, for example, portfolio holdings schedules and reports on the Adviser's use of derivatives in managing the Funds, if any, as well as reports on the Funds' investments in ETFs, if any.
The Trust's Chief Compliance Officer reports regularly to the Board to review and discuss compliance issues and Fund and Adviser risk assessments. At least annually, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer provides the Board with a report reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Trust's policies and procedures and those of its service providers, including the Adviser. The report addresses the operation of the policies and procedures of the Trust and each service provider since the date of the last report; any material changes to the policies and procedures since the date of the last report; any recommendations for material changes to the policies and procedures; and any material compliance matters since the date of the last report.
The Board receives reports from the Funds' service providers regarding operational risks and risks related to the valuation and liquidity of portfolio securities. The Trust's Fair Value Pricing Committee makes regular reports to the Board concerning investments for which market quotations are not readily available. Annually, the independent registered public accounting firm reviews with the Audit Committee its audit of the Funds' financial statements, focusing on major areas of risk encountered by the Funds and noting any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the Funds' internal controls. Additionally, in connection with its oversight function, the Board oversees Fund management's implementation of disclosure controls and procedures, which are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Trust in its periodic reports with the SEC are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the required time periods. The Board also oversees the Trust's internal controls over financial reporting, which comprise policies and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of the Trust's financial reporting and the preparation of the Trust's financial statements.
From their review of these reports and discussions with the Adviser, the Chief Compliance Officer, the independent registered public accounting firm and other service providers, the Board and the Audit Committee learn in detail about the material risks of the Funds, thereby facilitating a dialogue about how management and service providers identify and mitigate those risks.
The Board recognizes that not all risks that may affect the Funds can be identified and/or quantified, that it may not be practical or cost-effective to eliminate or mitigate certain risks, that it may be necessary to bear certain risks (such as investment-related risks) to achieve the Funds' goals, and that the processes, procedures and controls employed to address certain risks may be
limited in their effectiveness. Moreover, reports received by the Trustees as to risk management matters are typically summaries of the relevant information. Most of the Funds' investment management and business affairs are carried out by or through the Funds' Adviser and other service providers each of which has an independent interest in risk management but whose policies and the methods by which one or more risk management functions are carried out may differ from the Funds' and each other's in the setting of priorities, the resources available or the effectiveness of relevant controls. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, the Board's ability to monitor and manage risk, as a practical matter, is subject to limitations.
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD. There are eight members of the Board of Trustees, six of whom are not interested persons of the Trust, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act ("independent Trustees"). Robert Nesher, an interested person of the Trust, serves as Chairman of the Board. George Sullivan, an independent Trustee, serves as the lead independent Trustee. The Trust has determined its leadership structure is appropriate given the specific characteristics and circumstances of the Trust. The Trust made this determination in consideration of, among other things, the fact that the independent Trustees constitute a super-majority (75%) of the Board, the fact that the chairperson of each Committee of the Board is an independent Trustee, the amount of assets under management in the Trust, and the number of Funds (and classes of shares) overseen by the Board. The Board also believes that its leadership structure facilitates the orderly and efficient flow of information to the independent Trustees from Fund management.
The Board of Trustees has three standing committees: the Audit Committee, Governance Committee and Fair Value Pricing Committee. The Audit Committee and Governance Committee are chaired by an independent Trustee and composed of all of the independent Trustees. In addition, the Board of Trustees has a lead independent Trustee.
In his role as lead independent Trustee, Mr. Sullivan, among other things:
presides over board meetings in the absence of the Chairman of the Board;
presides over executive sessions of the independent Trustees; along with the
Chairman of the Board, oversees the development of agendas for Board meetings;
facilitates communication between the independent Trustees and management, and
among the independent Trustees; serves as a key point person for dealings
between the independent Trustees and management; and has such other
responsibilities as the Board or independent Trustees determine from time to
time.
Set forth below are the names, dates of birth, position with the Trust, length of term of office, and the principal occupations and other directorships held during at least the last five years of each of the persons currently serving as a Trustee of the Trust. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each Trustee is SEI Investments Company, One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTERESTED TRUSTEES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert Nesher Chairman of SEI employee 1974 to Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (08/17/46) the Board of present; currently performs Bishop Street Funds, SEI Daily Income Trust, Trustees(1) various services on behalf SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI (since 1991) of SEI Investments for Institutional Investments Trust, SEI which Mr. Nesher is Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid compensated. President and Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust and Director of SEI Opportunity SEI Tax Exempt Trust. President and Director Fund, L.P. and SEI of SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P. and SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP. Structured Credit Fund, L.P. Director of SEI President and Chief Global Master Fund plc, SEI Global Asset Fund Executive Officer of SEI plc, SEI Global Investments Fund plc, SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, Investments -- Global Funds Services, Limited, LP, June 2007 to present. SEI Investments Global, Limited, SEI Investments (Europe) Ltd., SEI Investments -- Unit Trust Management (UK) Limited, SEI Multi-Strategy Funds PLC, SEI Global Nominee Ltd. and SEI Alpha Stragegy Portfolios, L.P. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- William M. Doran Trustee(1) Self-Employed Consultant Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (05/26/40) (since 1992) since 2003. Partner at Bishop Street Funds, SEI Daily Income Trust, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI (law firm) from 1976 to Institutional Investments Trust, SEI 2003. Counsel to the Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Trust, SEI Investments, SIMC, Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust the Administrator and the and SEI Tax Exempt Trust. Director of SEI Distributor. Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP. Director of SEI Investments (Europe), Limited, SEI Investments--Global Funds Services, Limited, SEI Investments Global, Limited, SEI Investments (Asia), Limited and SEI Asset Korea Co., Ltd. Director of the Distributor since 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Charles E. Carlbom Trustee Self-Employed Business Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (08/20/34) (since 2005) Consultant, Business and Bishop Street Funds; Director of Oregon Projects Inc. Transfer Co. since 1997. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- John K. Darr Trustee Retired. CEO, Office of Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (08/17/44) (since 2008) Finance, Federal Home Loan and Bishop Street Funds, Director of Federal Bank, from 1992 to 2007. Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh and Manna, Inc. (non-profit developer of affordable housing for ownership). ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mitchell A. Johnson Trustee Retired. Private investor Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (03/01/42) (since 2005) since 1994. Bishop Street Funds, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP. Director, Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac) since 1997. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Betty L. Krikorian Trustee Vice President, Compliance, Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (01/23/43) (since 2005) AARP Financial Inc. from and Bishop Street Funds. 2008 to 2010. Self-Employed Legal and Financial Services Consultant since 2003. Counsel (in-house) for State Street Bank from 1995 to 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James M. Storey Trustee Attorney, Solo Practitioner Trustee/Director of The Advisors' Inner (04/12/31) (since 1994) since 1994. Circle Fund, Bishop Street Funds, U.S. Charitable Gift Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, L.P. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- George J. Sullivan, Jr. Trustee Self-employed Consultant, Trustee/Director of State Street Navigator (11/13/42) (since 1999) Newfound Consultants Inc. Securities Lending Trust, The Advisors' since April 1997. Inner Circle Fund, Bishop Street Funds, SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P., SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP; member of the independent review committee for SEI's Canadian-registered mutual funds. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Denotes Trustees who may be deemed to be "interested" persons of the Fund as that term is defined in the 1940 Act byvirtueof their affiliation with the Distributor and/or its affiliates.
INDIVIDUAL TRUSTEE QUALIFICATIONS
The Trust has concluded that each of the Trustees should serve on the Board because of their ability to review and understand information about the Funds provided to them by management, to identify and request other information they may deem relevant to the performance of their duties, to question management and other service providers regarding material factors bearing on the management and administration of the Funds, and to exercise their business judgment in a manner that serves the best interests of the Funds' shareholders. The Trust has concluded that each of the Trustees should serve as a Trustee based on their own experience, qualifications, attributes and skills as described below.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Nesher should serve as Trustee because of the experience he has gained in his various roles with SEI Investments Company, which he joined in 1974, his knowledge of and experience in the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1991.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Doran should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained serving as a Partner in the Investment Management and Securities Industry Practice of a large law firm, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1991.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Carlbom should serve as Trustee because of the business experience he gained as President and CEO of a large distribution cooperative and Chairman of a consulting company, his knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Funds since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Darr should serve as Trustee because of his background in economics, the business experience he gained in a variety of roles with different financial and banking institutions and as a founder of a money management firm, his knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2008.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Johnson should serve as Trustee because of the
experience he gained as President and founder of an investment management firm,
his experience in and knowledge of the financial services and banking
industries, the experience he gained serving as a director of other mutual
funds, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since
2005.
The Trust has concluded that Ms. Krikorian should serve as Trustee because of the experience she gained serving as a legal and financial services consultant, in-house counsel to a large custodian bank and Vice President of Compliance of an investment adviser, her background in fiduciary and banking law, her experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience she has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Storey should serve as Trustee because of the mutual fund governance experience he gained as an Investment Management attorney, both in private practice and with the SEC, his background serving as counsel to numerous mutual fund boards of trustees, his knowledge of the 1940 Act, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1994.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Sullivan should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained as a certified public accountant and financial consultant, his experience in and knowledge of public company accounting and auditing and the financial services industry, the experience he gained as an officer of a large financial services firm in its operations department and his experience from serving as trustee of the Trust since 1999.
In its periodic assessment of the effectiveness of the Board, the Board considers the complementary individual skills and experience of the individual Trustees primarily in the broader context of the Board's overall composition so that the Board, as a body, possesses the appropriate (and appropriately diverse) skills and experience to oversee the business of the funds. Moreover, references to the qualifications, attributes and skills of Trustees are pursuant to requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, do not constitute holding out of the Board or any Trustee as having any special expertise or experience, and shall not be deemed to impose any greater responsibility or liability on any such person or on the Board by reason thereof.
BOARD COMMITTEES. The Board has established the following standing committees:
o AUDIT COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Audit Committee that is composed of each of the independent Trustees of the Trust. The Audit Committee operates under a written charter approved by the Board. The principal responsibilities of the Audit Committee include: recommending which firm to engage as each fund's independent registered public accounting firm and whether to terminate this relationship; reviewing the independent registered public accounting firm's compensation, the proposed scope and terms of its engagement, and the firm's independence; pre-approving audit and non- audit services provided by each fund's independent registered public accounting firm to the Trust and certain other affiliated entities; serving as a channel of communication between the independent registered public accounting firm and the Trustees; reviewing the results of each external audit, including any qualifications in the independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, any related management letter, management's responses to recommendations made by the independent registered public accounting firm in connection with the audit, reports submitted to the Committee by the internal auditing department of the Trust's Administrator that are material to the Trust as a whole, if any, and management's responses to any such reports; reviewing each fund's audited financial statements and considering any significant disputes between the Trust's management and the independent registered public accounting firm that arose in connection with the preparation of those financial statements; considering, in consultation with the independent registered public accounting firm and the Trust's senior internal accounting executive, if any, the independent registered public accounting firms' reports on the adequacy of the Trust's internal financial controls; reviewing, in consultation with each fund's independent registered public accounting firm, major changes regarding auditing and accounting principles and practices to be followed when preparing each fund's financial statements; and other audit related matters. Messrs. Carlbom, Darr, Johnson, Storey, Sullivan and Ms. Krikorian currently serve as members of the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met XX times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
o FAIR VALUE PRICING COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Fair Value Pricing Committee that is composed of at least one Trustee and various representatives of the Trust's service providers, as appointed by the Board. The Fair Value Pricing Committee operates under procedures approved by the Board. The principal responsibility of the Fair Value Pricing Committee is to determine the fair value of securities for which current market quotations are not readily available. The Fair Value Pricing Committee's determinations are reviewed by the Board. Mr. Nesher, interested trustee, currently serves as the Board's delegate on the Fair Value Pricing Committee. The Fair Value Pricing Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met XX times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
o GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Governance Committee (formerly the Nominating Committee) that is composed of each of the independent Trustees of the Trust. The Governance Committee operates under a written charter approved by the Board. The principal responsibilities of the Governance Committee include: considering and reviewing Board governance and compensation issues; conducting a self-assessment of the Board's operations; selecting and nominating all persons to serve as Independent Trustees and evaluating the qualifications of "interested" Trustee candidates; and reviewing shareholder recommendations for nominations to fill vacancies on the Board if such recommendations are submitted in writing and addressed to the Committee at the Trust's office. Ms. Krikorian and Messrs. Carlbom, Darr, Johnson, Storey and Sullivan, currently serve as members of the Governance Committee. The Governance Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met XX times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
FUND SHARES OWNED BY BOARD MEMBERS. The following table shows the dollar amount range of each Trustee's "beneficial ownership" of shares of the Funds as of the end of the most recently completed calendar year. Dollar amount ranges disclosed are established by the SEC. "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the 1934 Act. The Trustees and officers of the Trust own less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Trust.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGGREGATE DOLLAR DOLLAR RANGE RANGE OF SHARES NAME OF FUND SHARES (ALL FUNDS)(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTERESTED TRUSTEES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nesher None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Doran None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Carlbom None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Darr None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Johnson None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Krikorian None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Storey None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sullivan None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Valuation date is December 31, 2009.
BOARD COMPENSATION. The Trust paid the following fees to the Trustees during its most recently completed fiscal year.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PENSION OR RETIREMENT BENEFITS ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL COMPENSATION FROM AGGREGATE ACCRUED AS PART OF BENEFITS UPON THE TRUST AND FUND NAME COMPENSATION FUND EXPENSES RETIREMENT COMPLEX(2) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $0 for service on one (1) Robert A. Nesher(1) $0 N/A N/A board --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $0 for service on one (1) William M. Doran(1) $0 N/A N/A board --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) Charles E. Carlbom $XX N/A N/A board --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) John K. Darr $XX N/A N/A board --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) Mitchell A. Johnson $XX N/A N/A board --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) Betty L. Krikorian $XX N/A N/A board --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) James M. Storey $XX N/A N/A board --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) George J. Sullivan $XX N/A N/A board --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) A Trustee who is an "interested person" as defined by the 1940 Act.
(2) The Trust is the only investment company in the "Fund Complex."
TRUST OFFICERS. Set forth below are the names, dates of birth, position with the Trust, and the principal occupations for the last five years of each of the persons currently serving as the Executive Officers of the Trust. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each officer is SEI Investments Company, One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. The Chief Compliance Officer is the only officer who receives compensation from the Trust for his services.
Certain officers of the Trust also serve as officers of one or more mutual funds for which SEI Investments Company or its affiliates act as investment manager, administrator or distributor.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH NAME AND TRUST AND LENGTH DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS IN PAST 5 YEARS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Philip T. President Managing Director of SEI Investments None. Masterson (since 2008) since 2006. Vice President and Assistant (03/12/64) Secretary of the Administrator from 2004 to 2006. General Counsel of Citco Mutual Fund Services from 2003 to 2004. Vice President and Associate Counsel for the Oppenheimer Funds from 2001 to 2003. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael Lawson Treasurer, Director, SEI Investments, Fund None. (10/08/60) Controller and Accounting since July 2005. Manager, Chief Financial SEI Investments, Fund Accounting at SEI Officer Investments AVP from April 1995 to (since 2005) February 1998 and November 1998 to July 2005. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Russell Emery Chief Compliance Chief Compliance Officer of SEI None. (12/18/62) Officer Structured Credit Fund, LP and SEI (since 2006) Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP since June 2007. Chief Compliance Officer of SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P., SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust and SEI Tax Exempt Trust since March 2006. Director of Investment Product Management and Development, SEI Investments, since February 2003; Senior Investment Analyst -- Equity Team, SEI Investments, from March 2000 to February 2003. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Carolyn Mead Vice President and Counsel at SEI Investments since 2007. None. (07/08/57) Assistant Secretary Associate at Stradley, Ronon, Stevens & (since 2007) Young from 2004 to 2007. Counsel at ING Variable Annuities from 1999 to 2002. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Timothy D. Vice President and General Counsel and Secretary of SIMC None. Barto Assistant Secretary and the Administrator since 2004. Vice (03/28/68) (since 1999) President of SIMC and the Administrator since 1999. Vice President and Assistant Secretary of SEI Investments since 2001. Assistant Secretary of SIMC, the Administrator and the Distributor, and Vice President of the Distributor from 1999 to 2003. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH NAME AND TRUST AND LENGTH DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS IN PAST 5 YEARS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James Ndiaye Vice President Vice President and Assistant Secretary of None. (09/11/68) and Assistant SIMC since 2005. Vice President at Secretary Deutsche Asset Management from 2003 (since 2004) to 2004. Associate at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP from 2000 to 2003. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Joseph Gallo Vice President Counsel at SEI Investments since 2007. None. (04/29/73) and Secretary Associate Counsel at ICMA--RC from (since 2007) 2004 to 2007. Assistant Secretary of The VantageTrust Company in 2007. Assistant Secretary of The Vantagepoint Funds from 2006 to 2007. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew S. AML Officer Compliance Officer and Product Manager None. Decker (since 2008) of SEI Investments since 2005. Vice (08/22/63) President of Old Mutual Capital from 2000 to 2005. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael Beattie Vice President Director of Client Service at SEI since None. (03/13/65) (since 2009) 2004. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Keri Rohn Privacy Officer Compliance Officer at SEI Investments None. (8/24/80) (since 2009) since 2003. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES
Purchases and redemptions may be made through the Transfer Agent on any day the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. Shares of the Funds are offered and redeemed on a continuous basis. Currently, the Trust is closed for business when the following holidays are observed: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
It is currently the Trust's policy to pay all redemptions in cash. The Trust retains the right, however, to alter this policy to provide for redemptions in whole or in part by a distribution in-kind of securities held by the Funds in lieu of cash. Shareholders may incur brokerage charges on the sale of any such securities so received in payment of redemptions. A Shareholder will at all times be entitled to aggregate cash redemptions from all funds of the Trust up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the Trust's net assets during any 90-day period. The Trust has obtained an exemptive order from the SEC that permits the Trust to make in-kind redemptions to those shareholders of the Trust that are affiliated with the Trust solely by their ownership of a certain percentage of the Trust's investment portfolios.
The Trust reserves the right to suspend the right of redemption and/or to postpone the date of payment upon redemption for any period on which trading on the NYSE is restricted, or during the existence of an emergency (as determined by the SEC by rule or regulation) as a result of which disposal or valuation of the Funds' securities is not reasonably practicable, or for such other periods as the SEC has by order permitted. The Trust also reserves the right to suspend sales of shares of any Fund for any period during which the NYSE, the Adviser, the Administrator, the Transfer Agent and/or the custodian are not open for business.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
GENERAL POLICY. The Funds adhere to Section 2(a)(41), and Rule 2a-4 thereunder, of the 1940 Act with respect to the valuation of portfolio securities. In general, securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at current market value, and all other securities are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Board. In complying with the 1940 Act, the Trust relies on guidance provided by the SEC and by the SEC staff in various interpretive letters and other guidance.
EQUITY SECURITIES. Securities listed on a securities exchange, market or automated quotation system for which quotations are readily available (except for securities traded on NASDAQ), including securities traded over the counter, are valued at the last quoted sale price on the primary exchange or market (foreign or domestic) on which they are traded on valuation date (or at approximately 4:00 p.m. ET if a security's primary exchange is normally open at that time), or, if there is no such reported sale on the valuation date, at the most recent quoted bid price. For securities traded on NASDAQ, the NASDAQ Official Closing Price will be used. If such prices are not available or determined to not represent the fair value of the security as of the Funds' pricing time, the security will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
MONEY MARKET SECURITIES AND OTHER DEBT SECURITIES. If available, money market securities and other debt securities are priced based upon valuations provided by recognized independent, third-party pricing agents. Such values generally reflect the last reported sales price if the security is actively traded. The third-party pricing agents may also value debt securities by employing methodologies that utilize actual market transactions, broker-supplied valuations, or other methodologies designed to identify the market value for such securities. Such methodologies generally consider such factors as security prices, yields, maturities, call features, ratings and developments relating to specific securities in arriving at valuations. Money market securities and other debt securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less may be valued at their amortized cost, which approximates market value. If such prices are not available or determined to not represent the fair value of the security as of the Funds' pricing time, the security will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
USE OF THIRD-PARTY INDEPENDENT PRICING AGENTS. Pursuant to contracts with the Trust's Administrator, market prices for most securities held by the Funds are provided daily by third-party independent pricing agents that are approved by the Board of Trustees of the Trust. The valuations provided by third-party independent pricing agents are reviewed daily by the Administrator.
TAXES
The following is only a summary of certain additional federal income tax considerations generally affecting the Funds and their shareholders that is intended to supplement the discussion contained in the Funds' Prospectuses. No attempt is made to present a detailed explanation of the tax treatment of the Funds or their shareholders, and the discussion here and in the Funds' Prospectuses is not intended as a substitute for careful tax planning. Shareholders are urged to consult with their tax advisors with specific reference to their own tax situations, including their state, local, and foreign tax liabilities.
The following general discussion of certain federal income tax consequences is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and the regulations issued thereunder as in effect on the date of this SAI. New legislation, as well as administrative changes or court decisions, may significantly change the conclusions expressed herein, and may have a retroactive effect with respect to the transactions contemplated herein.
QUALIFICATIONS AS A RIC
The Funds intend to qualify and elect to be treated as a "regulated investment company" ("RIC") under Subchapter M of the Code. By following such a policy, the Funds expect to eliminate or reduce to a nominal amount the federal taxes to which it may be subject. The Board reserves the right not to maintain the qualification of the Funds as a regulated investment company if it determines such course of action to be beneficial to shareholders.
In order to be taxable as a RIC, the Funds must distribute annually to its shareholders at least 90% of its net investment income (generally net investment income plus the excess of net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses, less operating expenses) and at least 90% of its net tax exempt interest income, for each tax year, if any, to its shareholders ("Distribution Requirement") and also must meet several additional requirements. Among these requirements are the following: (i) at least
90% of the Funds' gross income each taxable year must be derived from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income, including, generally, certain gains from options, futures, and forward contracts derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies, and net income derived from an interest in qualified publicly traded partnerships; (ii) at the end of each fiscal quarter of the Funds' taxable year, at least 50% of the market value of its total assets must be represented by cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, securities of other RICs and other securities, with such other securities limited, in respect to any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of each Fund's total assets or more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (iii) at the end of each fiscal quarter of each Fund's taxable year, not more than 25% of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities (other than U.S. government securities or securities of other RICs) of any one issuer or the securities (other than the securities of other RICs) of two or more issuers that the Funds control and which are engaged in the same, or similar, or related trades or businesses, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded parternships.
If the Funds fail to qualify as a RIC for any year, all of its income will be subject to federal income tax at regular corporate rates without any deduction for distributions to shareholders. In such case, its shareholders would be taxed as if they received ordinary dividends, although corporate shareholders could be eligible for the dividends received deduction and individuals may be able to benefit from the lower tax rates available to qualified dividend income. In addition, the Fund would be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial taxes and interest, and make substantial distributions before requalifying as a RIC.
FEDERAL EXCISE TAX
Notwithstanding the Distribution Requirement described above, which only requires the Funds to distribute at least 90% of its annual investment company income and does not require any minimum distribution of net capital gain, the Funds will be subject to a nondeductible 4% federal excise tax to the extent it fails to distribute, by the end of any calendar year, at least 98% of its ordinary income for that year and 98% of its capital gain net income (the excess of short- and long-term capital gain over short-and long-term capital loss) for the one-year period ending on October 31 of that year, plus certain other amounts. The Funds intend to make sufficient distributions to avoid liability for federal excise tax, but can make no assurances that such tax will be completely eliminated. The Funds may in certain circumstances be required to liquidate Fund investments in order to make sufficient distributions to avoid federal excise tax liability at a time when the investment adviser might not otherwise have chosen to do so, and liquidation of investments in such circumstances may affect the ability of the Funds to satisfy the requirement for qualification as a RIC. If the Funds' distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to the shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the Funds and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
SHAREHOLDER TREATMENT
The Funds' dividends that are paid to its corporate shareholders and are attributable to qualifying dividends it received from U.S. domestic corporations may be eligible, in the hands of such shareholders, for the corporate dividends received deduction, subject to certain holding period requirements and debt financing limitations. Generally, and subject to certain limitations (including certain holding period limitations), a dividend will be treated as a qualifying dividend if it has been received from a domestic corporation. All dividends (including the deducted portion) must be included in your alternative minimum taxable income calculation.
The Funds receive income generally in the form of dividends and interest on investments. This income, plus net short-term capital gains, if any, less expenses incurred in the operation of the Funds, constitutes each Fund's net investment income from which dividends may be paid to you. Any distributions by the Funds from such income will be taxable to you as ordinary income or at the lower capital gains rates that apply to individuals receiving qualified dividend income, whether you take them in cash or in additional shares.
Distributions by the Funds will be eligible for the reduced maximum tax rate to individuals of 15% (lower rates apply to individuals in lower tax brackets) to the extent that each Fund receives qualified dividend income on the securities it holds and
the Fund designates the distribution as qualified dividend income. Qualified
dividend income is, in general, dividend income from taxable domestic
corporations and certain foreign corporations (e.g., foreign corporations
incorporated in a possession of the United States or in certain countries with
a comprehensive tax treaty with the United States, or the stock of which is
readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States). A
dividend will not be treated as qualified dividend income to the extent that
(i) the shareholder has not held the shares on which the dividend was paid for
more than 60 days during the 121-day period that begins on the date that is 60
days before the date on which the shares become "ex-dividend" (which is the day
on which declared distributions (dividends or capital gains) are deducted from
the Fund's assets before it calculates the net asset value) with respect to
such dividend (and the Fund also satisfies those holding period requirements
with respect to the securities it holds that paid the dividends distributed to
the shareholder), (ii) the shareholder is under an obligation (whether pursuant
to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to
substantially similar or related property, or (iii) the shareholder elects to
treat such dividend as investment income under section 163(d)(4)(B) of the
Code. Absent further legislation, the maximum 15% rate on qualified dividend
income will not apply to dividends received in taxable years beginning after
December 31, 2010. Distributions by the Funds of its net short-term capital
gains will be taxable as ordinary income. Capital gain distributions consisting
of each Fund's net capital gains will be taxable as long-term capital gains
regardless of how long the Fund's shares have been held by the shareholder. The
Funds will report annually to its shareholders the amount of the Fund's
distributions that qualify for the reduced tax rates on qualified dividend
income.
Any gain or loss recognized on a sale, exchange, or redemption of shares of the Funds by a shareholder who is not a dealer in securities will generally, for individual shareholders, be treated as a long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than twelve months and otherwise will be treated as a short-term capital gain or loss. However, if shares on which a shareholder has received a net capital gain distribution are subsequently sold, exchanged, or redeemed and such shares have been held for six months or less, any loss recognized will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of the net capital gain distribution. In addition, the loss realized on a sale or other disposition of shares will be disallowed to the extent a shareholder repurchases (or enters into a contract to or option to repurchase) shares within a period of 61 days (beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the disposition of the shares). This loss disallowance rule will apply to shares received through the reinvestment of dividends during the 61-day period.
FOREIGN TAXES. If more than 50% of the value of each Fund's total assets at the close of its taxable year consists of stocks or securities of foreign corporations, the Funds will be eligible to, and will, file an election with the Internal Revenue Service that may enable shareholders, in effect, to receive either the benefit of a foreign tax credit or a deduction with respect to any foreign and U.S. possessions income taxes paid by the Fund, subject to certain limitations. Pursuant to the election, the Funds will treat those taxes as dividends paid to its shareholders. Each such shareholder will be required to include a proportionate share of those taxes in gross income as income received from a foreign source and must treat the amount so included as if the shareholder had paid the foreign tax directly. The shareholder may then either deduct the taxes deemed paid by him or her in computing his or her taxable income or, alternatively, use the foregoing information in calculating any foreign tax credit they may be entitled to use against the shareholders' federal income tax. If the Funds make the election, the Funds will report annually to its shareholders the respective amounts per share of each Fund's income from sources within, and taxes paid to, foreign countries and U.S. possessions.
STATE TAXES. Depending upon state and local law, distributions by the Funds to their shareholders and the ownership of such shares may be subject to state and local taxes. Rules of state and local taxation of dividend and capital gains distributions from RICs often differ from rules for federal income taxation described above. No fund is liable for any income or franchise tax in Massachusetts if it qualifies as a RIC for federal income tax purposes. Shareholders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding state and local taxes applicable to an investment in the Fund.
Many states grant tax-free status to dividends paid to you from interest earned on direct obligations of the U.S. government, subject in some states to minimum investment requirements that must be met by the Fund. Investment in Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae") or Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") securities, banker's acceptances, commercial paper, and repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government securities do not generally qualify for such tax-free treatment. The rules on exclusion of this income are different for corporate shareholders.
TAX TREATMENT OF COMPLEX SECURITIES. The Funds may invest in complex securities. These investments may be subject to numerous special and complex tax rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by the Fund are treated
as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the recognition of income to the Fund and/or defer the Fund's ability to recognize losses, and, in limited cases, subject the Fund to U.S. federal income tax on income from certain of its foreign securities. In turn, these rules may affect the amount, timing or character of the income distributed to you by the Fund.
Most foreign exchange gains realized on the sale of debt securities are treated as ordinary income by the Funds. Similarly, foreign exchange losses realized by the Funds on the sale of debt securities are generally treated as ordinary losses by the Funds. These gains when distributed will be taxable to you as ordinary dividends, and any losses will reduce the Funds' ordinary income otherwise available for distribution to you. This treatment could increase or reduce the Fund's ordinary income distributions to you, and may cause some or all of the Funds' previously distributed income to be classified as a return of capital.
OTHER TAX POLICIES. In certain cases, the Funds will be required to withhold at the applicable withholding rate, and remit to the United States Treasury, such withheld amounts on any distributions paid to a shareholder who (1) has failed to provide a correct taxpayer identification number, (2) is subject to backup withholding by the Internal Revenue Service, (3) has not certified to the Funds that such shareholder is not subject to backup withholding, or (4) has not certified that such shareholder is a U.S. person or U.S. resident alien.
Non-U.S. investors in the Funds may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax and are encouraged to consult their tax advisors prior to investing in the Funds.
With respect to investments in STRIPS, TRs, and other zero coupon securities which are sold at original issue discount and thus do not make periodic cash interest payments, a Fund will be required to include as part of its current income the imputed interest on such obligations even though the Fund has not received any interest payments on such obligations during that period. Because each Fund distributes all of its net investment income to its shareholders, a Fund may to sell Fund securities to distribute such imputed income which may occur at a time when the Adviser would not have chosen to sell such securities and which may result in taxable gain or loss.
FUND TRANSACTIONS
BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS. Generally, equity securities, both listed and over-the-counter, are bought and sold through brokerage transactions for which commissions are payable. Purchases from underwriters will include the underwriting commission or concession, and purchases from dealers serving as market makers will include a dealer's mark-up or reflect a dealer's mark-down. Money market securities and other debt securities are usually bought and sold directly from the issuer or an underwriter or market maker for the securities. Generally, the Funds will not pay brokerage commissions for such purchases. When a debt security is bought from an underwriter, the purchase price will usually include an underwriting commission or concession.
In addition, the Adviser may place a combined order for two or more accounts it manages, including the Funds, engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security if, in its judgment, joint execution is in the best interest of each participant and will result in best price and execution. Transactions involving commingled orders are allocated in a manner deemed equitable to each account or fund. Although it is recognized that, in some cases, the joint execution of orders could adversely affect the price or volume of the security that a particular account or the Funds may obtain, it is the opinion of the Adviser and the Trust's Board of Trustees that the advantages of combined orders outweigh the possible disadvantages of separate transactions. Nonetheless, the Adviser believes that the ability of the Funds to participate in higher volume transactions will generally be beneficial to the Funds.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Funds paid the following commissions on portfolio transactions:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND 2008 2009 2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champlain Mid Cap Fund $488(1) $67,829 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champlain Small Company Fund $774,475 $959,713 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) For the fiscal period from June 30, 2008 to July 31, 2008.
BROKERAGE SELECTION. The Trust does not expect to use one particular broker or dealer, and when one or more brokers is believed capable of providing the best combination of price and execution, the Funds' Adviser may select a broker based upon brokerage or research services provided to the Adviser. The Adviser may pay a higher commission than otherwise obtainable from other brokers in return for such services only if a good faith determination is made that the commission is reasonable in relation to the services provided.
Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act permits the Adviser, under certain circumstances, to cause the Funds to pay a broker or dealer a commission for effecting a transaction in excess of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting the transaction in recognition of the value of brokerage and research services provided by the broker or dealer. In addition to agency transactions, the Adviser may receive brokerage and research services in connection with certain riskless principal transactions, in accordance with applicable SEC guidance. Brokerage and research services include: (1) furnishing advice as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities, and the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of securities; (2) furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy, and the performance of accounts; and (3) effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance, settlement, and custody). In the case of research services, the Adviser believes that access to independent investment research is beneficial to their investment decision-making processes and, therefore, to the Funds.
To the extent research services may be a factor in selecting brokers, such services may be in written form or through direct contact with individuals and may include information as to particular companies and securities as well as market, economic, or institutional areas and information which assists in the valuation and pricing of investments. Examples of research-oriented services for which the Adviser might utilize Fund commissions include research reports and other information on the economy, industries, sectors, groups of securities, individual companies, statistical information, political developments, technical market action, pricing and appraisal services, credit analysis, risk measurement analysis, performance and other analysis. The Adviser may use research services furnished by brokers in servicing all client accounts and not all services may necessarily be used in connection with the account that paid commissions to the broker providing such services. Information so received by the Adviser will be in addition to and not in lieu of the services required to be performed by the Funds' Adviser under the Advisory Agreement. Any advisory or other fees paid to the Adviser are not reduced as a result of the receipt of research services.
In some cases the Adviser may receive a service from a broker that has both a "research" and a "non-research" use. When this occurs, the Adviser makes a good faith allocation, under all the circumstances, between the research and non-research uses of the service. The percentage of the service that is used for research purposes may be paid for with client commissions, while the Adviser will use its own funds to pay for the percentage of the service that is used for non-research purposes. In making this good faith allocation, the Adviser faces a potential conflict of interest, but the Adviser believes that its allocation procedures are reasonably designed to ensure that it appropriately allocates the anticipated use of such services to their research and non-research uses.
From time to time, the Funds may purchase new issues of securities for clients in a fixed price offering. In these situations, the seller may be a member of the selling group that will, in addition to selling securities, provide the Adviser with research services. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") has adopted rules expressly permitting these types of arrangements under certain circumstances. Generally, the seller will provide research "credits" in these situations at a rate that is higher than that which is available for typical secondary market transactions. These arrangements may not fall within the safe harbor of Section 28(e).
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Funds paid the following commissions on brokerage transactions directed to brokers pursuant to an agreement or understanding whereby the broker provides research or other brokerage services to the Adviser:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TOTAL DOLLAR AMOUNT OF TOTAL DOLLAR AMOUNT OF BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING BROKERAGE FUND COMMISSIONS FOR RESEARCH SERVICES COMMISSIONS FOR RESEARCH SERVICES --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champlain Mid Cap Fund $XX $XX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champlain Small Company Fund $XX $XX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
BROKERAGE WITH FUND AFFILIATES. A Fund may execute brokerage or other agency transactions through registered broker-dealer affiliates of either the Fund, the Adviser or the Distributor for a commission in conformity with the 1940 Act, the 1934 Act and rules promulgated by the SEC. These rules further require that commissions paid to the affiliate by the Funds for exchange transactions not exceed "usual and customary" brokerage commissions. The rules define "usual and customary" commissions to include amounts which are "reasonable and fair compared to the commission, fee or other remuneration received or to be received by other brokers in connection with comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold on a securities exchange during a comparable period of time." The Trustees, including those who are not "interested persons" of the Funds, have adopted procedures for evaluating the reasonableness of commissions paid to affiliates and review these procedures periodically.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Funds paid the following aggregate brokerage commissions on portfolio transactions effected by affiliated brokers. All amounts shown were paid to the Distributor and reflect fees paid in connection with Fund repurchase agreement transactions.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL BROKERAGE AGGREGATE DOLLAR AMOUNT OF BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS TRANSACTIONS BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS PAID TO AFFILIATED EFFECTED THROUGH PAID TO AFFILIATED BROKERS BROKERS AFFILIATED BROKERS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Champlain Mid Cap Fund $0(1) $0 $XX 0%(1) 0% XX% 0%(1) 0% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Champlain Small Company Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
(1) For the fiscal period from June 30, 2008 to July 31, 2008.
SECURITIES OF "REGULAR BROKER-DEALERS." The Funds are required to identify any securities of its "regular brokers and dealers" (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) which the Fund may hold at the close of its most recent fiscal year. As of the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Small Company Fund held $XX and the Mid Cap Fund held $XX in [equity/debt] securities of XX.
PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The Board of Trustees has approved a policy and procedures that govern the timing and circumstances regarding the disclosure of Fund portfolio holdings information to shareholders and third parties. These policies and procedures are designed to ensure that disclosure of information regarding the Funds' portfolio securities is in the best interests of Fund shareholders, and include procedures to address conflicts between the interests of the Funds' shareholders, on the one hand, and those of the Funds' Adviser, principal underwriter or any affiliated person of the Funds, its Adviser, or its principal underwriter, on the other. Pursuant to such procedures, the Board has authorized the Adviser's Chief Compliance Officer (the "Authorized Person") to authorize the release of the Funds' portfolio holdings, as necessary, in conformity with the foregoing principles. The Authorized Person reports quarterly to the Board regarding the implementation of such policies and procedures.
Pursuant to applicable law, the Funds are required to disclose its complete portfolio holdings quarterly, within 60 days of the end of each fiscal quarter (currently, each July 31, October 31, January 31, and April 30). The Funds disclose a complete schedule of investments in each Semi-Annual Report and Annual Report to Fund shareholders or, following the first and third fiscal quarters, in quarterly holdings reports filed with the SEC on Form N-Q. Semi-Annual and Annual Reports are distributed to Fund shareholders. Quarterly holdings reports filed with the SEC on Form N-Q are not distributed to Fund shareholders, but are available, free of charge, on the EDGAR database on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
Each Fund's most recent Annual and Semi-Annual reports are also available, free of charge, on the Funds' website at www.cipvt.com by clicking the "Products" link on the homepage followed by the applicable link in the "Products" section.
In addition, certain portfolio holdings information for the Funds is available on the Funds' website -- www.cipvt.com -- by clicking the "Products" link on the homepage followed by the "Fact Sheet" link in the "Products" section. By clicking these links, you can obtain a list of each Fund's top 10 portfolio holdings as of the end of the most recent calendar quarter. The portfolio holdings information available on the Funds' website includes a top 10 list of the securities owned by the Funds and the percentage of each Fund's overall portfolio represented by a particular security. In addition, the website includes a list of the sectors represented in each Fund's portfolio. The portfolio holdings information on the Funds' website is generally made available 7 to 10 business days following the close of the most recently completed calendar quarter and will remain available until the information is updated following the close of the next calendar quarter.
The information on the Funds' website is publicly available to all categories of persons.
The Funds' policies and procedures provide that the Authorized Person, may authorize disclosure of portfolio holdings information to third parties at differing times and/or with different lag times then the information posted to the internet provided that the recipient is, either by contractual agreement or otherwise by law, (i) required to maintain the confidentiality of the information and (ii) prohibited from using the information to facilitate or assist in any securities transactions or investment program. No compensation or other consideration is paid to or received by any party in connection with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information, including the Funds, Adviser and its affiliates or recipient of each Fund's portfolio holdings information. The Funds will review a third party's request for portfolio holdings information to determine whether the third party has legitimate business objectives in requesting such information.
Currently, the Funds have arrangements to provide additional disclosure of
portfolio holdings information to the following third party consultants: the
Vanguard Group ("Vanguard") and Arnerich & Massena & Associates ("Arnerich")
(each, a "Third Party Consultant" and, together, the "Third Party
Consultants"). Each Third Party Consultant analyzes potential investments for
its clients and provides its clients with an on-going analysis of such
investments. The Adviser's Chief Compliance Officer has authorized disclosure
of each Fund's portfolio holdings information to each Third Party Consultant
pursuant to a nondisclosure agreement entered into between the Trust, on behalf
of the Funds, and each Third Party Consultant. Pursuant to the nondisclosure
agreement, each Third Party Consultant is required to: (i) maintain the
confidentiality of the information; (ii) maintain procedures reasonably
designed to prohibit its employees and agents from using the information to
facilitate or assist in any securities transactions or investment program; and
(iii) upon the Trust's request, provide evidence reasonably satisfactory to the
Trust that demonstrate its adherence to the provisions of the nondisclosure
agreement.
The portfolio holdings information is provided to Vanguard on a quarterly basis with a lag of 5 days. The portfolio holdings information is provided to Arnerich on a quarterly basis with a lag of 30 days.
The Trust's policies and procedures prohibit any compensation or other consideration from being paid to or received by any party in connection with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information, including the Funds, Adviser and its affiliates or recipient of each Fund's portfolio holdings information.
In addition, the Funds' service providers, such as the Custodian, Administrator and transfer agent, may receive portfolio holdings information as frequently as daily in connection with their services to the Funds. In addition to any contractual provisions relating to confidentiality of information that may be included in the service providers contract with the Trust, these arrangements impose obligations on the Funds' service providers that would prohibit them from disclosing or trading on the Funds' non-public information. Financial printers and pricing information vendors may receive portfolio holdings information, as necessary, in connection with their services to the Funds.
DESCRIPTION OF SHARES
The Declaration of Trust authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of funds and shares of each fund, each of which represents an equal proportionate interest in the portfolio with each other share. Shares are entitled upon liquidation to a pro rata share in the net assets of the fund. Shareholders have no preemptive rights. The Declaration of Trust provides that the Trustees of the Trust may create additional series or classes of shares. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any additional funds and all assets in which such consideration is invested would belong to that fund and would be subject to the liabilities related thereto. Share certificates representing shares will not be issued. The Funds' shares, when issued, are fully paid and non-assessable.
SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY
The Trust is an entity of the type commonly known as a "Massachusetts business trust." Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of such a trust could, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the trust. Even if, however, the Trust were held to be a partnership, the possibility of the shareholders incurring financial loss for that reason appears remote because the Trust's Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for obligations of the Trust and requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each agreement, obligation or instrument entered into or executed by or on behalf of the Trust or the Trustees, and because the Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification out of the Trust property for any shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust.
LIMITATION OF TRUSTEES' LIABILITY
The Declaration of Trust provides that a Trustee shall be liable only for his or her own willful defaults and, if reasonable care has been exercised in the selection of officers, agents, employees or investment advisers, shall not be liable for any neglect or wrongdoing of any such person. The Declaration of Trust also provides that the Trust will indemnify its Trustees and officers against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection with actual or threatened litigation in which they may be involved because of their offices with the Trust unless it is determined in the manner provided in the Declaration of Trust that they have not acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that their actions were in the best interests of the Trust. However, nothing in the Declaration of Trust shall protect or indemnify a Trustee against any liability for his or her willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his or her duties. Nothing contained in this section attempts to disclaim a Trustee's individual liability in any manner inconsistent with the federal securities laws.
PROXY VOTING
The Board of Trustees of the Trust has delegated responsibility for decisions regarding proxy voting for securities held by the Funds to the Adviser. The Adviser will vote such proxies in accordance with its proxy policies and procedures, which are included in Appendix B to this SAI. The Board of Trustees will periodically review the Funds' proxy voting record.
The Trust is required to disclose annually each Fund's complete proxy voting record on Form N-PX. The Small Company Fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12 month period ended June 30th is available upon request by calling
1-866-773-3238 or by writing to the Small Company Fund at Champlain Funds, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009. For the Mid Cap Fund, beginning August 31, 2009, the Fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 will be available upon request by calling 1-866-773-3238 or by writing to the Mid Cap Fund at Champlain Funds, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009. Each Fund's Form N-PX is (for the Small Company Fund) or will be (for the Mid Cap Fund) available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
CODES OF ETHICS
The Board of Trustees, on behalf of the Trust, has adopted a Code of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. In addition, the Adviser, the Distributor and the Administrator have adopted Codes of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1. These Codes of Ethics apply to the personal investing activities of trustees, officers and certain employees ("Access Persons"). Rule 17j-1 and the Codes of Ethics are designed to prevent unlawful practices in connection with the purchase or sale of securities by Access Persons. Under each Code of Ethics, Access Persons are permitted to engage in personal securities transactions, but are required to report their personal securities transactions for monitoring purposes. In addition, certain Access Persons are required to obtain approval before investing in initial public offerings or private placements or are prohibited from making such investments. Copies of these Codes of Ethics are on file with the SEC, and are available to the public.
5% AND 25% SHAREHOLDERS
As of November 1, 2010, the following persons were record owners (or to the knowledge of the Trust, beneficial owners) of 5% and 25% or more of Advisor Shares of the Funds. Persons who owned of record or beneficially more than 25% of a Fund's outstanding shares may be deemed to control the Fund within the meaning of the 1940 Act. The Trust believes that most of the shares referred to below were held by the below persons in account for their fiduciary, agency or custodial customers.
APPENDIX A -- DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
The following descriptions are summaries of published ratings.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
A-1 This is the highest category by Standard and Poor's (S&P) and indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment is strong. Those issues determined to possess extremely strong safety characteristics are denoted with a plus sign (+) designation. A-2 Capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is satisfactory and the obligation is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. PRIME-1 Issues rated Prime-1 (or supporting institutions) by Moody's have a superior ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. Prime-1 repayment ability will often be evidenced by many of the following characteristics: - Leading market positions in well-established industries. - High rates of return on funds employed. - Conservative capitalization structure with moderate reliance on debt and ample asset protection. - Broad margins in earnings coverage of fixed financial charges and high internal cash generation. - Well-established access to a range of financial markets and assured sources of alternate liquidity. |
The rating F1 (Highest Credit Quality) is the highest commercial rating assigned by Fitch Inc. Paper rated F1 is regarded as having the strongest capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. The rating F2 (Good Credit Quality) is the second highest commercial paper rating assigned by Fitch Inc., which reflects a satisfactory capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, but the margin of safety is not as great as in the case of the higher ratings.
The rating TBW-1 by Thomson BankWatch ("Thomson") indicates a very high likelihood that principal and interest will be paid on a timely basis.
DESCRIPTION OF MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
Moody's highest rating for state and municipal and other short-term notes is MIG-1 and VMIG-l. Short-term municipal securities rated MIG-1 or VMIG-1 are of the best quality. They have strong protection from established cash flows, superior liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing or both. Short-term municipal securities rated MIG-2 or VMIG-2 are of high quality. Margins of protection are ample although not so large as in the MIG-I/VMIG-2 group.
An S&P note rating reflects the liquidity concerns and market access risks unique to notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes maturing beyond three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. The following criteria will be used in making that assessment:
- Amortization Schedule - the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note, and
- Source of Payment - the more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note.
S&P note rating symbols are as follows:
SP-1 Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Those issues determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay a debt service is given a plus (+) designation. SP-2 Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the votes. |
DESCRIPTION OF CORPORATE BOND RATINGS
S&P
Bonds rated AAA have the highest rating S&P assigns to a debt obligation. Such a rating indicates an extremely strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Bonds rated AA also qualify as high-quality debt obligations. Capacity to pay principal and interest is very strong, and in the majority of instances they differ from AAA issues only in small degree. Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for debt in this category than in higher rated categories. Debt rated BB and B is regarded as having predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions. Debt rated BB has less near-term vulnerability to default than other speculative grade debt. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions that could lead to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BBB- rating. Debt rate B has greater vulnerability to default but presently has the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions would likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay principal. The B rating category also is used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
MOODY'S
Bonds that are rated Aaa by Moody's are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a large, or an exceptionally stable, margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues. Bonds rated Aa by Moody's are judged by Moody's to be of high quality by all standards. Together with bonds rated Aaa, they comprise what are generally known as high-grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present that make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than the Aaa securities. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper-medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium-grade obligations (i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured). Interest payments and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment
characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well-assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Moody's bond ratings, where specified, are applied to financial contracts, senior bank obligations and insurance company senior policyholder and claims obligations with an original maturity in excess of one-year. Obligations relying upon support mechanisms such as letters-of-credit and bonds of indemnity are excluded unless explicitly rated.
Obligations of a branch of a bank are considered to be domiciled in the country in which the branch is located. Unless noted as an exception, Moody's rating on a bank's ability to repay senior obligations extends only to branches located in countries which carry a Moody's sovereign rating. Such branch obligations are rated at the lower of the bank's rating or Moody's sovereign rating for the bank deposits for the country in which the branch is located.
When the currency in which an obligation is denominated is not the same as the currency of the country in which the obligation is domiciled, Moody's ratings do not incorporate an opinion as to whether payment of the obligation will be affected by the actions of the government controlling the currency of denomination. In addition, risk associated with bilateral conflicts between an investor's home country and either the issuer's home country or the country where an issuer branch is located are not incorporated into Moody's ratings.
Moody's makes no representation that rated bank obligations or insurance company obligations are exempt from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 or issued in conformity with any other applicable law or regulation. Nor does Moody's represent that any specific bank or insurance company obligation is legally enforceable or is a valid senior obligation of a rated issuer.
Moody's ratings are opinions, not recommendations to buy or sell, and their accuracy is not guaranteed. A rating should be weighed solely as one factor in an investment decision and you should make your own study and evaluation of any issuer whose securities or debt obligations you consider buying or selling.
FITCH INC. ("FITCH")
Bonds rated AAA by Fitch are judged by Fitch to be strictly high grade, broadly marketable, suitable for investment by trustees and fiduciary institutions liable to but slight market fluctuation other than through changes in the money rate. The prime feature of an AAA bond is a showing of earnings several times or many times interest requirements, with such stability of applicable earnings that safety is beyond reasonable question whatever changes occur in conditions. Bonds rated AA by Fitch are judged by Fitch to be of safety virtually beyond question and are readily salable, whose merits are not unlike those of the AAA class, but whose margin of safety is less strikingly broad. The issue may be the obligation of a small company, strongly secured but influenced as to rating by the lesser financial power of the enterprise and more local type market.
Bonds rated A are considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
Bonds rated BBB are considered to be investment grade and of satisfactory credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances, however, are more likely to have adverse impact on these bonds, and therefore impair timely payment. The likelihood that the ratings of these bonds will fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with higher ratings. Bonds rated BB are considered speculative. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal may be affected over time by adverse economic changes. However, business and financial alternatives can be identified which could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt service requirements. Bonds rated B are considered highly speculative. While bonds in this class are currently meeting debt service requirements, the probability of continued timely payment of principal and interest reflects the obligor's limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic activity throughout the life of the issue.
THOMSON
Bonds rated AAA by Thomson BankWatch indicate that the ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis is extremely high. Bonds rated AA indicate a very strong ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis, with limited incremental risk compared to issues rated in the highest category. Bonds rated A indicate the ability to repay principal and interest is strong. Issues rated A could be more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings.
Bonds rated BBB (the lowest investment-grade category) indicate an acceptable capacity to repay principal and interest. Issues rated "BBB" are, however, more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings.
While not investment grade, the BB rating suggests that the likelihood of default is considerably less than for lower-rated issues. However, there are significant uncertainties that could affect the ability to adequately service debt obligations. Issues rated B show a higher degree of uncertainty and therefore greater likelihood of default than higher-rated issues. Adverse developments could negatively affect the payment of interest and principal on a timely basis.
APPENDIX B -- PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
POLICY
Champlain Investment Partners, LLC. (Champlain), as a matter of policy and as a fiduciary to our clients, has responsibility for voting proxies for portfolio securities consistent with the best economic interests of the clients. Our firm maintains written policies and procedures as to the handling, research, voting and reporting of proxy voting and makes appropriate disclosures about our firm's proxy policies and practices. Our policy and practice includes the responsibility to monitor corporate actions, receive and vote client proxies and disclose any potential conflicts of interest as well as making information available to clients about the voting of proxies for their portfolio securities and maintaining relevant and required records.
PROCEDURE
Champlain has adopted procedures to implement the firm's policy and reviews to monitor and insure the firm's policy is observed, implemented properly and amended or updated, as appropriate, which include the following:
VOTING PROCEDURES
o All employees will forward any proxy materials received on behalf of clients to Proxy Manager;
o The Proxy Manager will determine which client accounts hold the security to which the proxy relates;
o Absent material conflicts, the appropriate company analyst, or the Proxy Committee, will determine how Champlain should vote the proxy in accordance with applicable voting guidelines;
o The Proxy Manager will complete the proxy and vote the proxy in a timely and appropriate manner.
DISCLOSURE
o Champlain will provide conspicuously displayed information in its Disclosure Document summarizing this proxy voting policy and procedures, including a statement that clients may request information regarding how Champlain voted a client's proxies, and that clients may request a copy of these policies and procedures.
o The Proxy Manager will also send a copy of this summary to all existing clients who have previously received Champlain's Disclosure Document; or the Proxy Manager may send each client the amended Disclosure Document. Either mailing shall highlight the inclusion of information regarding proxy voting.
CLIENT REQUESTS FOR INFORMATION
o All client requests for information regarding proxy votes, or policies and procedures, received by any employee should be forwarded to the Proxy Manager.
o In response to any request the Proxy Manager will prepare a written response to the client with the information requested, and as applicable will include the name of the issuer, the proposal voted upon, and how Champlain voted the client's proxy with respect to each proposal about which client inquired.
VOTING GUIDELINES -- PROXY VOTING PHILOSOPHY
Champlain Investment Partners, LLC ("Champlain") believes that its primary fiduciary responsibility is to maximize the financial returns of all managed accounts. With this goal in mind, we will engage in a rigorous appraisal and evaluation process in which our proxy voting will support corporate management practices that are strictly shareholder oriented and corporate policies, which are aligned with maximizing shareholder returns.
FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITY
Champlain has the fiduciary responsibility to make all decisions (including those related to proxy issues) according to the best interests of the ultimate beneficiaries of accounts under management. Champlain will carefully review each proxy issue and evaluate the statements and views of competing parties, and vote proxies based solely on the best interests of our clients.
USING MANAGEMENT GUIDANCE
The quality of corporate management is one of the most important considerations of Champlain portfolio managers and analysts when making investment decisions. Considerable weight is given to the recommendations of a company's management and directors with respect to proxy issues. In many cases, unless such recommendations conflict with the interests of clients, votes will be cast in accordance with management recommendations. However, in many cases, company recommendations may be in conflict with our assessment of sound management practices and therefore not in the interests of clients, leading to votes in opposition to management. Champlain will strive for consistency in its proxy voting, but also acknowledges that there are no hard and fast rules guiding all situations. Individual proxy issues are always evaluated on their particular merits, and where conflicts arise between the interests of corporate management and the interests of Champlain clients, resolution is always in favor of the clients.
POLICY ON BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Champlain believes that meaningful, independent oversight of corporate managers is a critical function of a company's Board of Directors, and a cornerstone of sound corporate governance. To that end, we will support proposals seeking a majority of independent directors for the board, as well as proposals requiring independent directors for nominating, audit and compensation committees. Votes on individual director nominees are made on a case-by-case basis examining such factors as board and committee composition, past attendance record and governance efficacy. Votes for director nominees may be withheld in cases where a lack of independence, lack of material financial interest in the company, or evidence of poor past governance practices exists.
POLICY ON AUDIT COMMITTEE
Champlain believes that audit committees should be comprised of directors who are independent and financially literate, and shall vote in favor of such a structure. The audit committee should have the exclusive authority to hire independent auditors. We will generally withhold votes for audit committee members who approve significant non-audit relationships with outside auditors, as well as vote against ratification of the outside auditor when such relationships exist.
POLICY ON PROXY CONTEST DEFENSES / ANTI-TAKEOVER MEASURES
Champlain generally opposes proxy contest defenses and anti-takeover measures since they tend to restrict shareholder rights and participation, and often limit the realization of maximum economic value. We support shareholder resolutions that reverse previously adopted anti-takeover measures or, in general, enhance shareholder rights. However, as with all proxy issues, we conduct a full review of each proposal and vote in the best interests of clients.
ANTI-TAKEOVER MEASURES GENERALLY OPPOSED:
o Classification of the Board of Directors
o Shareholder rights plans (poison pills)
o Greenmail
o Supermajority rules to approve mergers or amend charter or bylaws
o Authority to place stock with disproportionate voting rights
o Golden Parachutes
SHAREHOLDER RESOLUTIONS GENERALLY SUPPORTED:
o Rescind or prohibit any of the above anti-takeover measures
o Annual voting of directors; repeal classified boards.
o Adoption of confidential voting
o Adoption of cumulative voting
o Redeem shareholder rights plans
o Proposals that require shareholder approval of rights plans (poison pills)
POLICY ON CAPITAL STRUCTURE
Champlain considers disciplined capital use an essential component of effective corporate management. Therefore we carefully consider proposals to authorize increased common shares, and generally limit authorization to funding needs for the next twelve months or for compelling management uses. We will generally vote for proposals to increase common shares for a stock split. Other capital structure proposals, such as preferred stock, will be voted for on a case-by-case basis.
POLICY ON EXECUTIVE AND DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
Champlain believes stock based compensation plans must be very carefully analyzed to protect the economic interests of shareholders, while providing appropriate motivation for corporate managers. Such plans should be highly correlated to both individual and corporate performance. We will oppose all option plans with excessive transfer of shareholder wealth, in the form of dilution to shareholder equity and voting power, to corporate directors, executives and employees. Champlain will consider factors such as other corporate incentives, corporate performance, industry practices, and terms and duration of the option program in its decision. Although each plan will be voted on a case-by-case basis, we will generally vote against plans, which do not meet several criteria. Champlain standards for option plan approval include: (1) dilution of less than 2% per annum, (2) strike prices either indexed against a relevant industry or market benchmark, or set at a premium to the current stock price, (3) strike prices set systematically, (4) options cost expensed, and (5) any material revisions to plans requiring a shareholder vote. Champlain believes that these criteria will lead to votes in favor of plans that meet the ultimate goal of aligning management and shareholder interests, while providing reasonable economic incentives for managers. We will vote for proposals requiring shareholder approval to reprice options, and will generally vote against option strike price repricing. We withhold votes for director nominees in the event of option repricing without shareholder approval. Director compensation plans are viewed on a case-by-case basis, with the goal of protecting economic interests of shareholders and aligning interests of directors with shareholders. Employee Stock Purchase plans are voted on a case-by-case basis.
POLICY ON MERGERS AND CORPORATE RESTRUCTURINGS
All mergers, acquisitions and restructurings are voted on a case-by-case basis taking into account financial terms, benefits and acquisition price.
SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
In recent years, a number of shareholder resolutions have been placed in corporate proxy statements that would require a company to alter its normal business practices in order to comply with the sponsor's view of corporate responsibility or citizenship. Examples of such proposals include requests that a company:
o allow shareholder control of corporate charitable contributions
o exit the nuclear power business
o adopt the MacBride Principles
o adopt the Valdez Principles
o stop doing business with the US Department of Defense
o stop using animals for product testing
o make donations to a pro-life or pro-choice advocate
o stop donations to a pro-life or pro-choice advocate
o move its annual meeting to a town with better public transportation
While Champlain directors, officers, employees and clients may have personal views with respect to each of these and other issues; it is our corporate policy not to favor resolutions that would impose mandatory constraints on a company's perceived ability to compete in the marketplace. In practice, this generally means voting against these shareholder resolutions.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
o Champlain will identify any conflicts that exist between the interests of the adviser and the client by reviewing the relationship of Champlain with the issuer of each security to determine if Champlain or any of its employees has any financial, business or personal relationship with the issuer.
o If a material conflict of interest exists, the Proxy Manager will determine whether it is appropriate to disclose the conflict to the affected clients, to give the clients an opportunity to vote the proxies themselves, or to address the voting issue through other objective means such as voting in a manner consistent with a predetermined voting policy or receiving an independent third party voting recommendation.
o Champlain will maintain a record of the voting resolution of any conflict of interest.
RECORDKEEPING
The shall retain the following proxy records in accordance with the SEC's five-year retention requirement.
o These policies and procedures and any amendments;
o Each proxy statement that Champlain receives;
o A record of each vote that Champlain casts;
o Any document Champlain created that was material to making a decision how to vote proxies, or that memorializes that decision including period reports to the General Manager;
o A copy of each written request from a client for information on how Champlain voted such client's proxies, and a copy of any written response.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
CLEAR RIVER FUND [R]
INVESTOR CLASS SHARES (CLRVX)
A SERIES OF THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
LOWRY HILL INVESTMENT ADVISORS, INC.
This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") is not a prospectus. This SAI is intended to provide additional information regarding the activities and operations of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II (the "Trust") and the Clear River(SM) Fund (the "Fund"). This SAI is incorporated by reference into and should be read in conjunction with the prospectus dated November 29, 2010. Capitalized terms not defined herein are defined in the Prospectus. The Fund's financial statements and financial highlights including notes thereto, and the report of Briggs, Bunting & Dougherty, LLP for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010 are contained in the 2010 Annual Report to Shareholders and are incorporated by reference into and are deemed to be part of this SAI. A copy of the Fund's 2010 Annual Report to Shareholders accompanies the delivery of this SAI. A Prospectus or Annual Report may be obtained by writing the Trust at P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 or calling toll-free 1-877-333-0246.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THE TRUST ....................................................................XX ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES ..............XX DESCRIPTION OF PERMITTED INVESTMENTS .........................................XX INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS .......................................................XX THE ADVISER ..................................................................XX THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS .......................................................XX THE ADMINISTRATOR ............................................................XX THE DISTRIBUTOR ..............................................................XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES .........................................XX THE TRANSFER AGENT ...........................................................XX THE CUSTODIAN ................................................................XX INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM ................................XX LEGAL COUNSEL ................................................................XX TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST ...........................................XX PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES ..............................................XX DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE .............................................XX TAXES ........................................................................XX FUND TRANSACTIONS ............................................................XX PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ...........................................................XX DESCRIPTION OF SHARES ........................................................XX SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY ........................................................XX LIMITATION OF TRUSTEES' LIABILITY ............................................XX PROXY VOTING .................................................................XX CODES OF ETHICS ..............................................................XX 5% AND 25% SHAREHOLDERS ......................................................XX |
APPENDIX A -- DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS ........................................A-1 APPENDIX B -- PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ..........................B-1 November 29, 2010 [INSERT CODE] |
THE TRUST
GENERAL. The Fund is a separate series of the Trust. The Trust is an open-end investment management company established under Massachusetts law as a Massachusetts voluntary association (commonly known as a business trust) under a Declaration of Trust dated July 24, 1992, as amended and restated as of February 18, 2004 and August 10, 2004. Prior to August 10, 2004, the Trust's name was The Arbor Fund. The Declaration of Trust permits the Trust to offer separate series ("funds") of shares of beneficial interest ("shares"). The Trust reserves the right to create and issue shares of additional funds. Each fund is a separate mutual fund, and each share of each fund represents an equal proportionate interest in that fund. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any fund and all assets of such fund belong solely to that fund and would be subject to liabilities related thereto. Each fund of the Trust pays its: (i) operating expenses, including fees of its service providers, expenses of preparing prospectuses, proxy solicitation material and reports to shareholders, costs of custodial services and registering its shares under federal and state securities laws, pricing and insurance expenses, brokerage costs, interest charges, taxes and organization expenses; and (ii) pro rata share of the Fund's other expenses, including audit and legal expenses. Expenses attributable to a specific fund shall be payable solely out of the assets of that fund. Expenses not attributable to a specific fund are allocated across all of the funds on the basis of relative net assets. The other funds of the Trust are described in one or more separate Statements of Additional Information.
VOTING RIGHTS. Each shareholder of record is entitled to one vote for each share held on the record date for the meeting. The Fund will vote separately on matters relating solely to it. As a Massachusetts voluntary association, the Trust is not required, and does not intend, to hold annual meetings of shareholders. Approval of shareholders will be sought, however, for certain changes in the operation of the Trust and for the election of Trustees under certain circumstances. Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees have the power to liquidate the Fund without shareholder approval. While the Trustees have no present intention of exercising this power, they may do so if the Fund fails to reach a viable size within a reasonable amount of time or for such other reasons as may be determined by the Board of Trustees.
In addition, a Trustee may be removed by the remaining Trustees or by shareholders at a special meeting called upon written request of shareholders owning at least 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust. In the event that such a meeting is requested, the Trust will provide appropriate assistance and information to the shareholders requesting the meeting.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
The Fund's investment objectives and principal investment strategies are described in the Prospectus. The following information supplements, and should be read in conjunction with, the Prospectus. For a description of certain permitted investments discussed below, see "Description of Permitted Investments" in this SAI.
CLEAR RIVER FUND. The Fund seeks long-term capital growth on a tax efficient basis while providing moderate current income. There can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to achieve its investment objective. The Fund is classified as a "diversified" investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act").
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE. Portfolio turnover rate is defined under U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") rules as the value of the securities purchased or securities sold, excluding all securities whose maturities at the time of acquisition were one-year or less, divided by the average monthly value of such securities owned during the year. Based on this definition, instruments with remaining maturities of less than one-year are excluded from the calculation of the portfolio turnover rate. Instruments excluded from the calculation of portfolio turnover generally would include the futures contracts in which the Fund may invest since such contracts generally have remaining maturities of less than one-year. The Fund may at times hold investments in other short-term instruments, such as repurchase agreements, which are excluded for purposes of computing portfolio turnover.
For the Fund's two most recently completed fiscal periods ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the portfolio turnover rates for the Fund were as follows:
Portfolio Turnover Rates
---------------------- --------------------------------------------- 2009 2010 ---------------------- --------------------------------------------- XX%* XX% ---------------------- --------------------------------------------- |
* For the fiscal period from February 3, 2009 to July 31, 2009.
DESCRIPTION OF PERMITTED INVESTMENTS
The following are descriptions of the Fund's permitted investments and investment practices and the associated risk factors. The Fund will only invest in any of the following instruments or engage in any of the following investment practices if such investment or activity is consistent with the Fund's investment objective and permitted by the Fund's stated investment policies.
EQUITY SECURITIES
TYPES OF EQUITY SECURITIES:
COMMON STOCKS -- Common stocks represent units of ownership in a company. Common stocks usually carry voting rights and earn dividends. Unlike preferred stocks, which are described below, dividends on common stocks are not fixed but are declared at the discretion of the company's board of directors.
PREFERRED STOCKS -- Preferred stocks are also units of ownership in a company. Preferred stocks normally have preference over common stock in the payment of dividends and the liquidation of the company. However, in all other respects, preferred stocks are subordinated to the liabilities of the issuer. Unlike common stocks, preferred stocks are generally not entitled to vote on corporate matters. Types of preferred stocks include adjustable-rate preferred stock, fixed dividend preferred stock, perpetual preferred stock, and sinking fund preferred stock. Generally, the market values of preferred stock with a fixed dividend rate and no conversion element varies inversely with interest rates and perceived credit risk.
CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES - Convertible securities are securities that may be exchanged for, converted into, or exercised to acquire a predetermined number of shares of the issuer's common stock at the Fund's option during a specified time period (such as convertible preferred stocks, convertible debentures and warrants). A convertible security is generally a fixed income security that is senior to common stock in an issuer's capital structure, but is usually subordinated to similar non-convertible securities. In exchange for the conversion feature, many corporations will pay a lower rate of interest on convertible securities than debt securities of the same corporation. In general, the market value of a convertible security is at least the higher of its "investment value" (i.e., its value as a fixed income security) or its "conversion value" (i.e., its value upon conversion into its underlying common stock).
Convertible securities are subject to the same risks as similar securities without the convertible feature. The price of a convertible security is more volatile during times of steady interest rates than other types of debt securities. The price of a convertible security tends to increase as the market value of the underlying stock rises, whereas it tends to decrease as the market value of the underlying common stock declines.
A synthetic convertible security is a combination investment in which the Fund purchases both (i) high-grade cash equivalents or a high grade debt obligation of an issuer or U.S. government securities and (ii) call options or warrants on the common stock of the same or different issuer with some or all of the anticipated interest income from the associated debt obligation that is earned over the holding period of the option or warrant.
While providing a fixed income stream (generally higher in yield than the income derivable from common stock but lower than that afforded by a similar non-convertible security), a convertible security also affords an investor the opportunity, through its conversion feature, to participate in the capital appreciation attendant upon a market price advance in the convertible security's underlying common stock. A synthetic convertible position has similar investment characteristics, but may differ with respect to credit quality, time to maturity, trading characteristics, and other factors. Because the Fund will create synthetic convertible positions only out of high grade fixed income securities, the credit rating associated with the Fund's synthetic convertible investments is generally expected to be higher than that of the average convertible security, many of which are rated below high
grade. However, because the options used to create synthetic convertible positions will generally have expirations between one month and three years of the time of purchase, the maturity of these positions will generally be shorter than average for convertible securities. Since the option component of a convertible security or synthetic convertible position is a wasting asset (in the sense of losing "time value" as maturity approaches), a synthetic convertible position may lose such value more rapidly than a convertible security of longer maturity; however, the gain in option value due to appreciation of the underlying stock may exceed such time value loss, the market price of the option component generally reflects these differences in maturities, and the Adviser takes such differences into account when evaluating such positions. When a synthetic convertible position "matures" because of the expiration of the associated option, the Fund may extend the maturity by investing in a new option with longer maturity on the common stock of the same or different issuer. If the Fund does not so extend the maturity of a position, it may continue to hold the associated fixed income security.
RIGHTS AND WARRANTS -- A right is a privilege granted to existing shareholders of a corporation to subscribe to shares of a new issue of common stock before it is issued. Rights normally have a short life, usually two to four weeks, are freely transferable and entitle the holder to buy the new common stock at a lower price than the public offering price. Warrants are securities that are usually issued together with a debt security or preferred stock and that give the holder the right to buy proportionate amount of common stock at a specified price. Warrants are freely transferable and are traded on major exchanges. Unlike rights, warrants normally have a life that is measured in years and entitles the holder to buy common stock of a company at a price that is usually higher than the market price at the time the warrant is issued. Corporations often issue warrants to make the accompanying debt security more attractive.
An investment in warrants and rights may entail greater risks than certain other types of investments. Generally, rights and warrants do not carry the right to receive dividends or exercise voting rights with respect to the underlying securities, and they do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuer. In addition, their value does not necessarily change with the value of the underlying securities, and they cease to have value if they are not exercised on or before their expiration date. Investing in rights and warrants increases the potential profit or loss to be realized from the investment as compared with investing the same amount in the underlying securities.
RISKS OF INVESTING IN EQUITY SECURITIES:
GENERAL RISKS OF INVESTING IN STOCKS -- While investing in stocks allows investors to participate in the benefits of owning a company, such investors must accept the risks of ownership. Unlike bondholders, who have preference to a company's earnings and cash flow, preferred stockholders, followed by common stockholders in order of priority, are entitled only to the residual amount after a company meets its other obligations. For this reason, the value of a company's stock will usually react more strongly to actual or perceived changes in the company's financial condition or prospects than its debt obligations. Stockholders of a company that fares poorly can lose money.
Stock markets tend to move in cycles with short or extended periods of rising and falling stock prices. The value of a company's stock may fall because of:
o Factors that directly relate to that company, such as decisions made by its management or lower demand for the company's products or services;
o Factors affecting an entire industry, such as increases in production costs; and
o Changes in general financial market conditions that are relatively unrelated to the company or its industry, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates or inflation rates.
Because preferred stock is generally junior to debt securities and other obligations of the issuer, deterioration in the credit quality of the issuer will cause greater changes in the value of a preferred stock than in a more senior debt security with similar stated yield characteristics.
SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES - Investors in small and medium-sized companies typically take on greater risk and price volatility than they would by investing in larger, more established companies. This increased risk may be due to the greater business risks of their small or medium size, limited markets and financial resources, narrow product lines and frequent lack of management depth. The securities of small and medium-sized companies are often traded in the over-the-counter market and
might not be traded in volumes typical of securities traded on a national securities exchange. Thus, the securities of small and medium capitalization companies are likely to be less liquid, and subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements, than securities of larger, more established companies.
TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES - Stocks of technology companies have tended to be subject to greater volatility than securities of companies that are not dependent upon or associated with technological issues. Technology companies operate in various industries. Since these industries frequently share common characteristics, an event or issue affecting one industry may significantly influence other, related industries. For example, technology companies may be strongly affected by worldwide scientific or technological developments and their products and services may be subject to governmental regulation or adversely affected by governmental policies.
INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS ("IPO") -- The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities of companies offering shares in IPOs. IPOs may have a magnified performance impact on the Fund with a small asset base. The impact of IPOs on the Fund's performance likely will decrease as the Fund's asset size increases, which could reduce the Fund's total returns. IPOs may not be consistently available to the Fund for investing, particularly as the Fund's asset base grows. Because IPO shares frequently are volatile in price, the Fund may hold IPO shares for a very short period of time. This may increase the turnover of the Fund's portfolio and may lead to increased expenses for the Fund, such as commissions and transaction costs. By selling IPO shares, the Fund may realize taxable gains it will subsequently distribute to shareholders. In addition, the market for IPO shares can be speculative and/or inactive for extended periods of time. The limited number of shares available for trading in some IPOs may make it more difficult for the Fund to buy or sell significant amounts of shares without an unfavorable impact on prevailing prices. Holders of IPO shares can be affected by substantial dilution in the value of their shares, by sales of additional shares and by concentration of control in existing management and principal shareholders.
The Fund's investment in IPO shares may include the securities of unseasoned companies (companies with less than three years of continuous operations), which presents risks considerably greater than common stocks of more established companies. These companies may have limited operating histories and their prospects for profitability may be uncertain. These companies may be involved in new and evolving businesses and may be vulnerable to competition and changes in technology, markets and economic conditions. They may be more dependent on key managers and third parties and may have limited product lines.
DEBT SECURITIES
Corporations and governments use debt securities to borrow money from investors. Most debt securities promise a variable or fixed rate of return and repayment of the amount borrowed at maturity. Some debt securities, such as zero-coupon bonds, do not pay current interest and are purchased at a discount from their face value.
TYPES OF DEBT SECURITIES:
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES - The Fund may invest in U.S. government securities. Securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities include U.S. Treasury securities, which are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury and which differ only in their interest rates, maturities, and times of issuance. U.S. Treasury bills have initial maturities of one-year or less; U.S. Treasury notes have initial maturities of one to ten years; and U.S. Treasury bonds generally have initial maturities of greater than ten years. Certain U.S. government securities are issued or guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government including, but not limited to, obligations of U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities such as Fannie Mae, the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae"), the Small Business Administration, the Federal Farm Credit Administration, the Federal Home Loan Banks, Banks for Cooperatives (including the Central Bank for Cooperatives), the Federal Land Banks, the Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Federal Financing Bank, the Student Loan Marketing Association, the National Credit Union Administration and the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac).
Some obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies and instrumentalities, including, for example, Ginnie Mae pass-through certificates, are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury. Other obligations issued by or guaranteed by federal agencies, such as those securities issued by Fannie Mae, are supported by the discretionary authority of
the U.S. government to purchase certain obligations of the federal agency, while other obligations issued by or guaranteed by federal agencies, such as those of the Federal Home Loan Banks, are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, while the U.S. government provides financial support to such U.S. government-sponsored federal agencies, no assurance can be given that the U.S. government will always do so, since the U.S. government is not so obligated by law. U.S. Treasury notes and bonds typically pay coupon interest semi-annually and repay the principal at maturity.
On September 7, 2008, the U.S. Treasury announced a federal takeover of Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac, placing the two federal instrumentalities in conservatorship. Under the takeover, the U.S. Treasury agreed to acquire $1 billion of senior preferred stock of each instrumentality and obtained warrants for the purchase of common stock of each instrumentality (the "Senior Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement" or "Agreement"). Under the Agreement, the U.S. Treasury pledged to provide up to $200 billion per instrumentality as needed, including the contribution of cash capital to the instrumentalities in the event their liabilities exceed their assets. This was intended to ensure that the instrumentalities maintain a positive net worth and meet their financial obligations, preventing mandatory triggering of receivership. On December 24, 2009, the U.S. Treasury announced that it was amending the Agreement to allow the $200 billion cap on the U.S. Treasury's funding commitment to increase as necessary to accommodate any cumulative reduction in net worth over the next three years. As a result of this Agreement, the investments of holders, including the Fund, of mortgage-backed securities and other obligations issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are protected.
CORPORATE BONDS -- Corporations issue bonds and notes to raise money for working capital or for capital expenditures such as plant construction, equipment purchases and expansion. In return for the money loaned to the corporation by investors, the corporation promises to pay investors interest, and repay the principal amount of the bond or note.
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES -- Mortgage-backed securities are interests in pools of mortgage loans that various governmental, government-related and private organizations assemble as securities for sale to investors. Unlike most debt securities, which pay interest periodically and repay principal at maturity or on specified call dates, mortgage-backed securities make monthly payments that consist of both interest and principal payments. In effect, these payments are a "pass-through" of the monthly payments made by the individual borrowers on their mortgage loans, net of any fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of such securities. Since homeowners usually have the option of paying either part or all of the loan balance before maturity, the effective maturity of a mortgage-backed security is often shorter than is stated.
Governmental entities, private insurers and mortgage poolers may insure or guarantee the timely payment of interest and principal of these pools through various forms of insurance or guarantees, including individual loan, title, pool and hazard insurance and letters of credit. The Adviser will consider such insurance and guarantees and the creditworthiness of the issuers thereof in determining whether a mortgage-related security meets its investment quality standards. It is possible that the private insurers or guarantors will not meet their obligations under the insurance policies or guarantee arrangements.
Although the market for such securities is becoming increasingly liquid, securities issued by certain private organizations may not be readily marketable.
GOVERNMENT NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION ("GNMA") -- GNMA is the principal governmental guarantor of mortgage-related securities. GNMA is a wholly owned corporation of the U.S. government within the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Securities issued by GNMA are treasury securities, which means the full faith and credit of the U.S. government backs them. GNMA guarantees the timely payment of principal and interest on securities issued by institutions approved by GNMA and backed by pools of FHA-insured or VA-guaranteed mortgages. GNMA does not guarantee the market value or yield of mortgage-backed securities or the value of the Fund's shares. To buy GNMA securities, the Fund may have to pay a premium over the maturity value of the underlying mortgages, which the Fund may lose if prepayment occurs.
FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION ("FNMA") -- FNMA is a
government-sponsored corporation owned entirely by private stockholders. FNMA
is regulated by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. FNMA purchases
conventional mortgages from a list of approved sellers and service providers,
including state and federally-chartered savings and loan associations, mutual
savings banks, commercial banks and credit unions and mortgage bankers.
Securities issued by FNMA are agency securities, which means FNMA, but not the
U.S. government, guarantees their timely payment of principal and interest.
FREDDIE MAC -- Freddie Mac is stockholder-owned corporation established by the U.S. Congress to create a continuous flow of funds to mortgage lenders. Freddie Mac supplies lenders with the money to make mortgages and packages the mortgages into marketable securities. The system is designed to create a stable mortgage credit system and reduce the rates paid by homebuyers. Freddie Mac, not the U.S. government, guarantees timely payment of principal and interest.
COMMERCIAL BANKS, SAVINGS AND LOAN INSTITUTIONS, PRIVATE MORTGAGE INSURANCE COMPANIES, MORTGAGE BANKERS AND OTHER SECONDARY MARKET ISSUERS -- Commercial banks, savings and loan institutions, private mortgage insurance companies, mortgage bankers and other secondary market issuers also create pass-through pools of conventional mortgage loans. In addition to guaranteeing the mortgage-related security, such issuers may service and/or have originated the underlying mortgage loans. Pools created by these issuers generally offer a higher rate of interest than pools created by GNMA, FNMA and Freddie Mac because they are not guaranteed by a government agency.
RISKS OF MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES -- Yield characteristics of mortgage-backed securities differ from those of traditional debt securities in a variety of ways. The most significant differences of mortgage-backed securities are:
o payments of interest and principal are more frequent (usually monthly); and
o falling interest rates generally cause individual borrowers to pay off their mortgage earlier than expected, which results in prepayments of principal on the securities, thus forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
In addition to risks associated with changes in interest rates described in "Factors Affecting the Value of Debt Securities," a variety of economic, geographic, social and other factors, such as the sale of the underlying property, refinancing or foreclosure, can cause investors to repay the loans underlying a mortgage-backed security sooner than expected. When prepayment occurs, the Fund may have to reinvest its principal at a rate of interest that is lower than the rate on existing mortgage-backed securities.
OTHER ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES -- These securities are interests in pools of a broad range of assets other than mortgages, such as automobile loans, computer leases and credit card receivables. Like mortgage-backed securities, these securities are pass-through. In general, the collateral supporting these securities is of shorter maturity than mortgage loans and is less likely to experience substantial prepayments with interest rate fluctuations, but may still be subject to prepayment risk.
Asset-backed securities present certain risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities. Primarily, these securities may not have the benefit of any security interest in the related assets, which raises the possibility that recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support payments on these securities. For example, credit card receivables are generally unsecured and the debtors are entitled to the protection of a number of state and federal consumer credit laws, many of which allow debtors to reduce their balances by offsetting certain amounts owed on the credit cards. Most issuers of asset-backed securities backed by automobile receivables permit the servicers of such receivables to retain possession of the underlying obligations. If the servicer were to sell these obligations to another party, there is a risk that the purchaser would acquire an interest superior to that of the holders of the related asset-backed securities. Due to the quantity of vehicles involved and requirements under state laws, asset-backed securities backed by automobile receivables may not have a proper security interest in all of the obligations backing such receivables.
To lessen the effect of failures by obligors on underlying assets to make payments, the entity administering the pool of assets may agree to ensure the receipt of payments on the underlying pool occurs in a timely fashion ("liquidity protection"). In addition, asset-backed securities may obtain insurance, such as guarantees, policies or letters of credit obtained by the issuer or sponsor from third parties, for some or all of the assets in the pool ("credit support"). Delinquency or loss more than that anticipated or failure of the credit support could adversely affect the return on an investment in such a security.
The Fund may also invest in residual interests in asset-backed securities, which is the excess cash flow remaining after making required payments on the securities and paying related administrative expenses. The amount of residual cash flow resulting from a particular issue of asset-backed securities depends in part on the characteristics of the underlying assets, the coupon rates on the securities, prevailing interest rates, the amount of administrative expenses and the actual prepayment experience on the underlying assets.
COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS ("CMOS") -- CMOs are hybrids between mortgage-backed bonds and mortgage pass-
through securities. Similar to a bond, CMOs usually pay interest and prepay principal monthly. While whole mortgage loans may collateralize CMOs, mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by GNMA, Freddie Mac, or FNMA and their income streams more typically collateralize them.
A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and invests in certain mortgages primarily secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments.
CMOs are structured into multiple classes, each bearing a different stated maturity. Each class of CMO or REMIC certificate, often referred to as a "tranche," is issued at a specific interest rate and must be fully retired by its final distribution date. Generally, all classes of CMOs or REMIC certificates pay or accrue interest monthly. Investing in the lowest tranche of CMO or REMIC certificates involves risks similar to those associated with investing in equity securities.
REITS -- A REIT is a corporation or business trust (that would otherwise be
taxed as a corporation) which meets the definitional requirements of the Code.
The Code permits a qualifying REIT to deduct from taxable income the dividends
paid, thereby effectively eliminating corporate level federal income tax and
making the REIT a pass-through vehicle for federal income tax purposes. To meet
the definitional requirements of the Code, a REIT must, among other things:
invest substantially all of its assets in interests in real estate (including
mortgages and other REITs), cash and government securities; derive most of its
income from rents from real property or interest on loans secured by mortgages
on real property; and distribute annually 95% or more of its otherwise taxable
income to shareholders.
REITs are sometimes informally characterized as "Equity REITs" and "Mortgage REITs". An "Equity REIT" invests primarily in the fee ownership or leasehold ownership of land and buildings; a "Mortgage REIT" invests primarily in mortgages on real property, which may secure construction, development or long-term loans.
REITs in which a fund invests may be affected by changes in underlying real estate values, which may have an exaggerated effect to the extent that REITs in which the Fund invests may concentrate investments in particular geographic regions or property types. Additionally, rising interest rates may cause investors in REITs to demand a higher annual yield from future distributions, which may in turn decrease market prices for equity securities issued by REITs. Rising interest rates also generally increase the costs of obtaining financing, which could cause the value of the Fund's investments to decline. During periods of declining interest rates, certain Mortgage REITs may hold mortgages that the mortgagors elect to prepay, which prepayment may diminish the yield on securities issued by such Mortgage REITs. In addition, Mortgage REITs may be affected by the ability of borrowers to repay when due the debt extended by the REIT and Equity REITs may be affected by the ability of tenants to pay rent.
Certain REITs have relatively small market capitalizations, which may tend to
increase the volatility of the market price of securities issued by such REITs.
Furthermore, REITs are dependent upon specialized management skills, have
limited diversification and are, therefore, subject to risks inherent in
operating and financing a limited number of projects. By investing in REITs
indirectly through the Fund, a shareholder will bear not only his proportionate
share of the expenses of the Fund, but also, indirectly, similar expenses of
the REITs. REITs depend generally on their ability to generate cash flow to
make distributions to shareholders.
In addition to these risks, Equity REITs may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by the trusts, while Mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of any credit extended. Further, Equity and Mortgage REITs are dependent upon management skills and generally may not be diversified. Equity and Mortgage REITs are also subject to heavy cash flow dependency defaults by borrowers and self-liquidation. In addition, Equity and Mortgage REITs could possibly fail to qualify for tax free pass-through of income under the Code or to maintain their exemptions from registration under the 1940 Act. The above factors may also adversely affect a borrower's or a lessee's ability to meet its obligations to the REIT. In the event of default by a borrower or lessee, the REIT may experience delays in enforcing its rights as a mortgagee or lessor and may incur substantial costs associated with protecting its investments.
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS -- To earn a return on uninvested assets, meet anticipated redemptions, or for temporary defensive purposes, the Fund may invest a portion of its assets in the short-term securities listed below, U.S. government securities and investment-grade corporate debt securities. Unless otherwise specified, a short-term debt security has a maturity of one year or less.
BANK OBLIGATIONS -- The Fund will only invest in a security issued by a commercial bank if the bank:
o has total assets of at least $1 billion, or the equivalent in other
currencies (based on the most recent publicly available information
about the bank);
o is a U.S. bank and a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance
Corporation; and
o is a foreign branch of a U.S. bank and the Adviser believes the
security is of an investment quality comparable with other debt
securities that the Fund may purchase.
TIME DEPOSITS -- Time deposits are non-negotiable deposits, such as savings accounts or certificates of deposit, held by a financial institution for a fixed term with the understanding that the depositor can withdraw its money only by giving notice to the institution. However, there may be early withdrawal penalties depending upon market conditions and the remaining maturity of the obligation. The Fund may only purchase time deposits maturing from two business days through seven calendar days.
CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT -- Certificates of deposit are negotiable certificates issued against funds deposited in a commercial bank or savings and loan association for a definite period of time and earning a specified return.
BANKERS' ACCEPTANCE -- A bankers' acceptance is a time draft drawn on a commercial bank by a borrower, usually in connection with an international commercial transaction (to finance the import, export, transfer or storage of goods).
COMMERCIAL PAPER -- Commercial paper is a short-term obligation with a maturity ranging from one to 270 days issued by banks, corporations and other borrowers. Such investments are unsecured and usually discounted. The Fund may invest in commercial paper rated A-1 or A-2 by S&P or Prime-1 or Prime-2 by Moody's or, if not rated, issued by a corporation having an outstanding unsecured debt issue rated A or better by Moody's or by S&P. See "Appendix A - Ratings" for a description of commercial paper ratings.
YANKEE BONDs -- Yankee bonds are dollar-denominated bonds issued inside the United States by foreign entities. Investments in these securities involve certain risks that are not typically associated with investing in domestic securities. See "Foreign Securities."
ZERO COUPON BONDS -- These securities make no periodic payments of interest, but instead are sold at a discount from their face value. When held to maturity, their entire income, which consists of accretion of discount, comes from the difference between the issue price and their value at maturity. The amount of the discount rate varies depending on factors including the time remaining until maturity, prevailing interest rates, the security's liquidity and the issuer's credit quality. The market value of zero coupon securities may exhibit greater price volatility than ordinary debt securities because a stripped security will have a longer duration than an ordinary debt security with the same maturity. The Fund's investments in pay-in-kind, delayed and zero coupon bonds may require it to sell certain of its portfolio securities to generate sufficient cash to satisfy certain income distribution requirements.
These securities may include treasury securities that have had their interest
payments ("coupons") separated from the underlying principal ("corpus") by
their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment brokerage firm. Once the
holder of the security has stripped or separated corpus and coupons, it may
sell each component separately. The principal or corpus is then sold at a deep
discount because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future fixed
payment on the security and does not receive any rights to periodic interest
(cash) payments. Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped with
other coupons with like maturity dates and sold bundled in such form. The
underlying treasury security is held in book-entry form at the Federal Reserve
Bank or, in the case of bearer securities (i.e., unregistered securities which
are owned ostensibly by the bearer or holder thereof), in trust on behalf of
the owners thereof. Purchasers of stripped obligations acquire, in effect,
discount obligations that are economically identical to the zero coupon
securities that the Treasury sells itself.
The U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero coupon securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular interest coupon and corpus payments on Treasury securities through the Federal Reserve book-entry record keeping system. Under a Federal Reserve program known as "STRIPS" or "Separate Trading of Registered Interest and
Principal of Securities," the Fund may record its beneficial ownership of the coupon or corpus directly in the book-entry record-keeping system.
TERMS TO UNDERSTAND:
MATURITY -- Every debt security has a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the amount it borrowed (principal) from investors. Some debt securities, however, are callable, meaning the issuer can repay the principal earlier, on or after specified dates (call dates). Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate, similar to a homeowner refinancing a mortgage. The effective maturity of a debt security is usually its nearest call date.
A fund that invests in debt securities has no real maturity. Instead, it calculates its weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the stated maturity of each debt security held by the Fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of the assets of the Fund it represents.
DURATION -- Duration is a calculation that seeks to measure the price sensitivity of a debt security, or a fund that invests in debt securities, to changes in interest rates. It measures sensitivity more accurately than maturity because it takes into account the time value of cash flows generated over the life of a debt security. Future interest payments and principal payments are discounted to reflect their present value and then are multiplied by the number of years they will be received to produce a value expressed in years -- the duration. Effective duration takes into account call features and sinking Fund prepayments that may shorten the life of a debt security.
An effective duration of four years, for example, would suggest that for each 1% reduction in interest rates at all maturity levels, the price of a security is estimated to increase by 4%. An increase in rates by the same magnitude is estimated to reduce the price of the security by 4%. By knowing the yield and the effective duration of a debt security, one can estimate total return based on an expectation of how much interest rates, in general, will change. While serving as a good estimator of prospective returns, effective duration is an imperfect measure.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE VALUE OF DEBT SECURITIES -- The total return of a debt instrument is composed of two elements: the percentage change in the security's price and interest income earned. The yield to maturity of a debt security estimates its total return only if the price of the debt security remains unchanged during the holding period and coupon interest is reinvested at the same yield to maturity. The total return of a debt instrument, therefore, will be determined not only by how much interest is earned, but also by how much the price of the security and interest rates change.
O INTEREST RATES
The price of a debt security generally moves in the opposite direction from interest rates (i.e., if interest rates go up, the value of the bond will go down, and vice versa).
O PREPAYMENT RISK
This risk affects mainly mortgage-backed securities. Unlike other debt securities, falling interest rates can adversely affect the value of mortgage-backed securities, which may cause your share price to fall. Lower rates motivate borrowers to pay off the instruments underlying mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, resulting in prepayments on the securities. The Fund may then have to reinvest the proceeds from such prepayments at lower interest rates, which can reduce its yield. The unexpected timing of mortgage and asset-backed prepayments caused by the variations in interest rates may also shorten or lengthen the average maturity of the Fund. If left unattended, drifts in the average maturity of the Fund can have the unintended effect of increasing or reducing the effective duration of the Fund, which may adversely affect the expected performance of the Fund.
O EXTENSION RISK
The other side of prepayment risk occurs when interest rates are rising. Rising interest rates can cause the Fund's average
maturity to lengthen unexpectedly due to a drop in mortgage prepayments. This would increase the sensitivity of the Fund to rising rates and its potential for price declines. Extending the average life of a mortgage-backed security increases the risk of depreciation due to future increases in market interest rates. For these reasons, mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than other types of U.S. government securities as a means of "locking in" interest rates.
O CREDIT RATING
Coupon interest is offered to investors of debt securities as compensation for assuming risk, although short-term treasury securities, such as three-month treasury bills, are considered "risk free." Corporate securities offer higher yields than treasury securities because their payment of interest and complete repayment of principal is less certain. The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risks that the issuer will fail to pay interest and return principal. To compensate investors for taking on increased risk, issuers with lower credit ratings usually offer their investors a higher "risk premium" in the form of higher interest rates than those available from comparable treasury securities.
Changes in investor confidence regarding the certainty of interest and principal payments of a corporate debt security will result in an adjustment to this "risk premium." Since an issuer's outstanding debt carries a fixed coupon, adjustments to the risk premium must occur in the price, which affects the yield to maturity of the bond. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the bond may lose some or all of its value.
A security rated within the four highest rating categories by a rating agency is called investment-grade because its issuer is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal. If a security is not rated or is rated under a different system, the Adviser may determine that it is of investment-grade. The Adviser may retain securities that are downgraded, if it believes that keeping those securities is warranted.
Debt securities rated below investment-grade ("junk bonds") are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller, less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. A corporation may issue a junk bond because of a corporate restructuring or other similar event. Compared with investment-grade bonds, junk bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business condition of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
Rating agencies are organizations that assign ratings to securities based primarily on the rating agency's assessment of the issuer's financial strength. The Fund currently uses ratings compiled by Moody's, S&P and Fitch Inc. Credit ratings are only an agency's opinion, not an absolute standard of quality, and they do not reflect an evaluation of market risk.
The section "Appendix A -- Description Ratings" contains further information concerning the ratings of certain rating agencies and their significance.
The Adviser may use ratings produced by ratings agencies as guidelines to determine the rating of a security at the time the Fund buys it. A rating agency may change its credit ratings at any time. The Adviser monitors the rating of the security and will take appropriate actions if a rating agency reduces the security's rating. The Fund is not obligated to dispose of securities whose issuers subsequently are in default or which are downgraded below the above-stated ratings.
FOREIGN SECURITIES
Foreign securities are debt and equity securities that are traded in markets outside of the United States. The markets in which these securities are located can be developed or emerging. Consistent with its respective investment strategies, the Fund can invest in foreign securities in a number of ways:
o It can invest directly in foreign securities denominated in a foreign
currency;
o It can invest in American Depositary Receipts, European Depositary
Receipts and other similar global instruments; and
o It can invest in investment funds.
TYPES OF FOREIGN SECURITIES:
AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ("ADRS") -- ADRs as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. A custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home country holds the underlying shares in trust. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. ADRs are subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. European Depositary Receipts are similar to ADRs, except that they are typically issued by European banks or trust companies.
ADRs can be sponsored or unsponsored. While these types are similar, there are differences regarding a holder's rights and obligations and the practices of market participants. A depository may establish an unsponsored facility without participation by (or acquiescence of) the underlying issuer; typically, however, the depository requests a letter of non-objection from the underlying issuer prior to establishing the facility. Holders of unsponsored depositary receipts generally bear all the costs of the facility. The depository usually charges fees upon the deposit and withdrawal of the underlying securities, the conversion of dividends into U.S. dollars or other currency, the disposition of non-cash distributions, and the performance of other services. Sponsored depositary receipt facilities are created in generally the same manner as unsponsored facilities, except that sponsored depositary receipts are established jointly by a depository and the underlying issuer through a deposit agreement. The deposit agreement sets out the rights and responsibilities of the underlying issuer, the depository, and the depositary receipt holders. With sponsored facilities, the underlying issuer typically bears some of the costs of the depositary receipts (such as dividend payment fees of the depository), although most sponsored depositary receipts holders may bear costs such as deposit and withdrawal fees. Depositories of most sponsored depositary receipts agree to distribute notices of shareholder meetings, voting instructions, and other shareholder communications and information to the depositary receipt holders at the underlying issuer's request. The depositary of an unsponsored facility frequently is under no obligation to distribute shareholder communications received from the issuer of the deposited security or to pass through, to the holders of the receipts, voting rights with respect to the deposited securities.
EMERGING MARKETS -- An "emerging market country" is generally a country that the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank) and the International Finance Corporation would consider to be an emerging or developing country. Typically, emerging markets are in countries that are in the process of industrialization, with lower gross national products (GNP) than more developed countries. There are currently over 130 countries that the international financial community generally considers to be emerging or developing countries, approximately 40 of which currently have stock markets. These countries generally include every nation in the world except the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.
INVESTMENT FUNDS -- Some emerging countries currently prohibit direct foreign investment in the securities of their companies. Certain emerging countries, however, permit indirect foreign investment in the securities of companies listed and traded on their stock exchanges through investment funds that they have specifically authorized. Investments in these investment funds are subject to the provisions of the 1940 Act. If the Fund invests in such investment funds, shareholders will bear not only their proportionate share of the expenses (including operating expenses and the fees of the Adviser), but also will indirectly bear similar expenses of the underlying investment funds. In addition, these investment funds may trade at a premium over their net asset value.
RISKS OF FOREIGN SECURITIES:
Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.
POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS -- Local political, economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments may affect the value of foreign investments. Listed below are some of the more important political and economic factors that could negatively affect an investment in foreign securities:
o The economies of foreign countries may differ from the economy of the
United States in such areas as growth of gross national product, rate
of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency, budget
deficits and national debt;
o Foreign governments sometimes participate to a significant degree,
through ownership interests or regulation, in their respective
economies. Actions by these governments could significantly influence
the market prices of securities and payment of dividends;
o The economies of many foreign countries are dependent on
international trade and their trading partners and they could be
severely affected if their trading partners were to enact protective
trade barriers and economic conditions;
o The internal policies of a particular foreign country may be less
stable than in the United States. Other countries face significant
external political risks, such as possible claims of sovereignty by
other countries or tense and sometimes hostile border clashes; and
o A foreign government may act adversely to the interests of U.S.
investors, including expropriation or nationalization of assets,
confiscatory taxation and other restrictions on U.S. investment. A
country may restrict or control foreign investments in its securities
markets. These restrictions could limit the Fund's ability to invest
in a particular country or make it very expensive for the Fund to
invest in that country. Some countries require prior governmental
approval, limit the types or amount of securities or companies in
which a foreigner can invest. Other countries may restrict the ability
of foreign investors to repatriate their investment income and capital
gains.
INFORMATION AND SUPERVISION -- There is generally less publicly available information about foreign companies than companies based in the United States. For example, there are often no reports and ratings published about foreign companies comparable to the ones written about U.S. companies. Foreign companies are typically not subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies. The lack of comparable information makes investment decisions concerning foreign countries more difficult and less reliable than domestic companies.
STOCK EXCHANGE AND MARKET RISK -- The Adviser anticipates that in most cases an exchange or over-the-counter ("OTC") market located outside of the United States will be the best available market for foreign securities. Foreign stock markets, while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as developed as the markets in the United States. Foreign stock markets tend to differ from those in the United States in a number of ways.
FOREIGN STOCK MARKETS:
o are generally more volatile than, and not as developed or efficient as, those in the United States;
o have substantially less volume;
o trade securities that tend to be less liquid and experience rapid and erratic price movements;
o have generally higher commissions and are subject to set minimum rates, as opposed to negotiated rates;
o employ trading, settlement and custodial practices less developed than those in U.S. markets; and
o may have different settlement practices, which may cause delays and increase the potential for failed settlements.
Foreign markets may offer less protection to shareholders than U.S. markets because:
o foreign accounting, auditing, and financial reporting requirements may render a foreign corporate balance sheet more difficult to understand and interpret than one subject to U.S. law and standards;
o adequate public information on foreign issuers may not be available, and it may be difficult to secure dividends and information regarding corporate actions on a timely basis;
o in general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States;
o OTC markets tend to be less regulated than stock exchange markets and, in certain countries, may be totally unregulated;
o economic or political concerns may influence regulatory enforcement and may make it difficult for shareholders to enforce their legal rights; and
o restrictions on transferring securities within the United States or to U.S. persons may make a particular security less liquid than foreign securities of the same class that are not subject to such restrictions.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK -- While the Fund denominates its net asset value in U.S. dollars, the securities of foreign companies are frequently denominated in foreign currencies. Thus, a change in the value of a foreign currency against the U.S. dollar will result in a corresponding change in value of securities denominated in that currency. Some of the factors that may impair the investments denominated in a foreign currency are:
o It may be expensive to convert foreign currencies into U.S. dollars
and vice versa;
o Complex political and economic factors may significantly affect the
values of various currencies, including U.S. dollars, and their
exchange rates;
o Government intervention may increase risks involved in purchasing or
selling foreign currency options, forward contracts and futures
contracts, since exchange rates may not be free to fluctuate in
response to other market forces;
o There may be no systematic reporting of last sale information for
foreign currencies or regulatory requirement that quotations available
through dealers or other market sources be firm or revised on a timely
basis;
o Available quotation information is generally representative of very
large round-lot transactions in the inter-bank market and thus may not
reflect exchange rates for smaller odd-lot transactions (less than $1
million) where rates may be less favorable; and
o The inter-bank market in foreign currencies is a global,
around-the-clock market. To the extent that a market is closed while
the markets for the underlying currencies remain open, certain markets
may not always reflect significant price and rate movements.
TAXES -- Certain foreign governments levy withholding taxes on dividend and interest income. Although in some countries it is possible for the Fund to recover a portion of these taxes, the portion that cannot be recovered will reduce the income the Fund receives from its investments. The Fund does not expect such foreign withholding taxes to have a significant impact on performance.
EMERGING MARKETS -- Investing in emerging markets may magnify the risks of foreign investing. Security prices in emerging markets can be significantly more volatile than those in more developed markets, reflecting the greater uncertainties of investing in less established markets and economies. In particular, countries with emerging markets may:
o Have relatively unstable governments;
o Present greater risks of nationalization of businesses, restrictions
on foreign ownership and prohibitions on the repatriation of assets;
o Offer less protection of property rights than more developed
countries; and
o Have economies that are based on only a few industries, may be highly
vulnerable to changes in local or global trade conditions, and may
suffer from extreme and volatile debt burdens or inflation rates.
Local securities markets may trade a small number of securities and may be unable to respond effectively to increases in trading volume, potentially making prompt liquidation of holdings difficult or impossible at times.
DERIVATIVES
Derivatives are financial instruments whose value is based on an underlying asset, such as a stock or a bond, an underlying economic factor, such as an interest rate or a market benchmark, such as an index. Investors can use derivatives to gain exposure
to various markets in a cost efficient manner, to reduce transaction costs, alter duration or to remain fully invested. They may also invest in derivatives to protect it from broad fluctuations in market prices, interest rates or foreign currency exchange rates. Investing in derivatives for these purposes is known as "hedging." When hedging is successful, the Fund will have offset any depreciation in the value of its Fund securities by the appreciation in the value of the derivative position. Although techniques other than the sale and purchase of derivatives could be used to control the exposure of the Fund to market fluctuations, the use of derivatives may be a more effective means of hedging this exposure. To the extent that the Fund engages in hedging, there can be no assurance that any hedge will be effective or that there will be a hedge in place at any given time.
Because many derivatives have a leverage or borrowing component, adverse changes in the value or level of the underlying asset, reference rate, or index can result in a loss substantially greater than the amount invested in the derivative itself. Certain derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the initial investment. Accordingly, certain derivative transactions may be considered to constitute borrowing transactions for purposes of the 1940 Act. Such a derivative transaction will not be considered to constitute the issuance of a "senior security" by the Fund, and therefore such transaction will not be subject to the 300% asset coverage requirement otherwise applicable to borrowings by the Fund, if the Fund covers the transaction or segregates sufficient liquid assets in accordance with the requirements, and subject to certain risks.
TYPES OF DERIVATIVES:
FUTURES - A futures contract is an agreement between two parties whereby one party sells and the other party agrees to buy a specified amount of a financial instrument at an agreed upon price and time. The financial instrument underlying the contract may be a stock, stock index, bond, bond index, interest rate, foreign exchange rate or other similar instrument. Agreeing to buy the underlying financial information is called buying a futures contract or taking a long position in the contract. Likewise, agreeing to sell the underlying financial instrument is called selling a futures contract or taking a short position in the contract.
Futures contracts are traded in the United States on commodity exchanges or boards of trade -- known as "contract markets" --approved for such trading and regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"). These contract markets standardize the terms, including the maturity date and underlying financial instrument, of all futures contracts.
Unlike other securities, the parties to a futures contract do not have to pay for or deliver the underlying financial instrument until some future date (the delivery date). Contract markets require both the purchaser and seller to deposit "initial margin" with a futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant or custodian bank, when they enter into the contract. Initial margin deposits are typically equal to a percentage of the contract's value. After they open a futures contract, the parties to the transaction must compare the purchase price of the contract to its daily market value. If the value of the futures contract changes in such a way that a party's position declines, that party must make additional "variation margin" payments so that the margin payment is adequate. On the other hand, the value of the contract may change in such a way that there is excess margin on deposit, possibly entitling the party that has a gain to receive all or a portion of this amount. This process is known as "marking to the market."
Although the actual terms of a futures contract call for the actual delivery of and payment for the underlying security, in many cases the parties may close the contract early by taking an opposite position in an identical contract. If the sale price upon closing out the contract is less than the original purchase price, the person closing out the contract will realize a loss. If the sale price upon closing out the contract is more than the original purchase price, the person closing out the contract will realize a gain. If the purchase price upon closing out the contract is more than the original sale price, the person closing out the contract will realize a loss. If the purchase price upon closing out the contract is less than the original sale price, the person closing out the contract will realize a gain.
The Fund may incur commission expenses when it opens or closes a futures position.
OPTIONS - An option is a contract between two parties for the purchase and sale of a financial instrument for a specified price (known as the "strike price" or "exercise price") at any time during the option period. Unlike a futures contract, an option grants a right (not an obligation) to buy or sell a financial instrument. Generally, a seller of an option can grant a buyer two kinds of rights: a "call" (the right to buy the security) or a "put" (the right to sell the security). Options have various types of underlying instruments, including specific securities, indices of securities prices, foreign currencies, interest rates and futures contracts.
Options may be traded on an exchange (exchange-traded-options) or may be customized agreements between the parties (over-the-counter or "OTC options"). Like futures, a financial intermediary, known as a clearing corporation, financially backs exchange-traded options. However, OTC options have no such intermediary and are subject to the risk that the counterparty will not fulfill its obligations under the contract.
O PURCHASING PUT AND CALL OPTIONS
When the Fund purchases a put option, it buys the right to sell the instrument underlying the option at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the Fund pays the current market price for the option (known as the "option premium"). The Fund may purchase put options to offset or hedge against a decline in the market value of its securities ("protective puts") or to benefit from a decline in the price of securities that it does not own. The 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. However, if the price of the underlying instrument does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer would lose the premium and related transaction costs.
Call options are similar to put options, except that the Fund obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. The Fund would normally purchase call options in anticipation of an increase in the market value of securities it owns or wants to buy. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying instrument exceeded the exercise price plus the premium paid and related transaction costs. Otherwise, the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the call option.
The purchaser of an option may terminate its position by:
o Allowing it to expire and losing its entire premium;
o Exercising the option and either selling (in the case of a put
option) or buying (in the case of a call option) the underlying
instrument at the strike price; or
o Closing it out in the secondary market at its current price.
o SELLING (WRITING) PUT AND CALL OPTIONS
When the Fund writes a call option it assumes an obligation 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. Similarly, when the Fund writes a put option it assumes an obligation to purchase specified securities from the option holder at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. The Fund may terminate its position in an exchange-traded put option before exercise by buying an option identical to the one it has written. Similarly, it may cancel an over-the-counter option by entering into an offsetting transaction with the counterparty to the option.
The Fund could try to hedge against an increase in the value of securities it would like to acquire by writing a put option on those securities. If security prices rise, the Fund would expect the put option to expire and the premium it received to offset the increase in the security's value. If security prices remain the same over time, the Fund would hope to profit by closing out the put option at a lower price. If security prices fall, the Fund may lose an amount of money equal to the difference between the value of the security and the premium it received. Writing covered put options may deprive the Fund of the opportunity to profit from a decrease in the market price of the securities it would like to acquire.
The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that call writers expect to profit if prices remain the same or fall. The Fund could try to hedge against a decline in the value of securities it already owns by writing a call option. If the price of that security falls as expected, the Fund would expect the option to expire and the premium it received to offset the decline of the security's value. However, the Fund must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument in return for the strike price, which may deprive it of the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market price of the securities it holds.
The Fund is permitted only to write covered options. At the time of selling the call option, the Fund may cover the option by owning, among other things:
o The underlying security (or securities convertible into the
underlying security without additional consideration), index, interest
rate, foreign currency or futures contract;
o A call option on the same security or index with the same or lesser
exercise price;
o A call option on the same security or index with a greater exercise price and segregating cash or liquid securities in an amount equal to the difference between the exercise prices;
o Cash or liquid securities equal to at least the market value of the optioned securities, interest rate, foreign currency or futures contract; or
o In the case of an index, the portfolio of securities that corresponds to the index.
At the time of selling a put option, the Fund may cover the put option by, among other things:
o Entering into a short position in the underlying security;
o Purchasing a put option on the same security, index, interest rate,
foreign currency or futures contract with the same or greater exercise
price;
o Purchasing a put option on the same security, index, interest rate,
foreign currency or futures contract with a lesser exercise price and
segregating cash or liquid securities in an amount equal to the
difference between the exercise prices; or
o Maintaining the entire exercise price in liquid securities.
o OPTIONS ON SECURITIES INDICES
Options on securities indices are similar to options on securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash settlement 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.
o OPTIONS ON FUTURES
An option on a futures contract provides the holder with the right to buy a futures contract (in the case of a call option) or sell a futures contract (in the case of a put option) at a fixed time and price. Upon exercise of the option by the holder, the contract market clearing house establishes a corresponding short position for the writer of the option (in the case of a call option) or a corresponding long position (in the case of a put option). If the option is exercised, the parties will be subject to the futures contracts. In addition, the writer of an option on a futures contract is subject to initial and variation margin requirements on the option position. Options on futures contracts are traded on the same contract market as the underlying futures contract.
The buyer or seller of an option on a futures contract may terminate the option early by purchasing or selling an option of the same series (i.e., the same exercise price and expiration date) as the option previously purchased or sold. The difference between the premiums paid and received represents the trader's profit or loss on the transaction.
The Fund may purchase put and call options on futures contracts instead of selling or buying futures contracts. The Fund may buy a put option on a futures contract for the same reasons it would sell a futures contract. It also may purchase such put options in order to hedge a long position in the underlying futures contract. The Fund may buy call options on futures contracts for the same purpose as the actual purchase of the futures contracts, such as in anticipation of favorable market conditions.
The Fund may write a call option on a futures contract to hedge against a decline in the prices of the instrument underlying the futures contracts. If the price of the futures contract at expiration were below the exercise price, the Fund would retain the option premium, which would offset, in part, any decline in the value of its portfolio securities.
The writing of a put option on a futures contract is similar to the purchase of the futures contracts, except that, if the market price declines, the Fund would pay more than the market price for the underlying instrument. The premium received on the sale of the put option, less any transaction costs, would reduce the net cost to the Fund.
o COMBINED POSITIONS
The Fund may purchase and write options in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall position. For example, the Fund could construct a combined position
whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures contract by purchasing a put option and writing a call option on the same underlying instrument. Alternatively, the Fund could write a call option at one strike price and buy a call option at a lower price to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
o FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS
A forward foreign currency contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific amount of currency at a future date or date range at a specific price. In the case of a cancelable forward contract, the holder has the unilateral right to cancel the contract at maturity by paying a specified fee. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts differ from foreign currency futures contracts in certain respects. Unlike futures contracts, forward contracts:
o Do not have standard maturity dates or amounts (i.e., the parties to
the contract may fix the maturity date and the amount).
o Are traded in the inter-bank markets conducted directly between
currencytraders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers,
as opposed to futures contracts which are traded only on exchanges
regulated by the CFTC.
o Do not require an initial margin deposit.
o May be closed by entering into a closing transaction with the
currency trader who is a party to the original forward contract, as
opposed to a commodities exchange.
FOREIGN CURRENCY HEDGING STRATEGIES - A "settlement hedge" or "transaction hedge" is designed to protect the Fund against an adverse change in foreign currency values between the date a security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received. Entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in an underlying security transaction for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars "locks in" the U.S. dollar price of the security. The Fund may also use forward contracts to purchase or sell a foreign currency when it anticipates purchasing or selling securities denominated in foreign currency, even if it has not yet selected the specific investments.
The Fund may use forward contracts to hedge against a decline in the value of existing investments denominated in foreign currency. Such a hedge, sometimes referred to as a "position hedge," would tend to offset both positive and negative currency fluctuations, but would not offset changes in security values caused by other factors. The Fund could also hedge the position by selling another currency expected to perform similarly to the currency in which the Fund's investment is denominated. This type of hedge, sometimes referred to as a "proxy hedge," could offer advantages in terms of cost, yield, or efficiency, but generally would not hedge currency exposure as effectively as a direct hedge into U.S. dollars. Proxy hedges may result in losses if the currency used to hedge does not perform similarly to the currency in which the hedged securities are denominated.
Transaction and position hedging do not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the securities that the Fund owns or intends to purchase or sell. They simply establish a rate of exchange that one can achieve at some future point in time. Additionally, these techniques tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in the value of the hedged currency and to limit any potential gain that might result from the increase in value of such currency.
The Fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment exposure from one currency into another. Such transactions may call for the delivery of one foreign currency in exchange for another foreign currency, including currencies in which its securities are not then denominated. This may include shifting exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy, sometimes known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that is purchased. Cross-hedges may protect against losses resulting from a decline in the hedged currency, but will cause the Fund to assume the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases. Cross hedging transactions also involve the risk of imperfect correlation between changes in the values of the currencies involved.
It is difficult to forecast with precision the market value of portfolio securities at the expiration or maturity of a forward or futures contract. Accordingly, the Fund may have to purchase additional foreign currency on the spot market if the market value of a security it is hedging is less than the amount of foreign currency it is obligated to deliver. Conversely, the Fund may have to
sell on the spot market some of the foreign currency it received upon the sale of a security if the market value of such security exceeds the amount of foreign currency it is obligated to deliver.
To the extent that the Fund engages in foreign currency hedging, there can be no assurance that any hedge will be effective or that there will be a hedge in place at any given time.
SWAPS, CAPS, COLLARS AND FLOORS
SWAP AGREEMENTS - A swap is a financial instrument that typically involves the exchange of cash flows between two parties on specified dates (settlement dates), where the cash flows are based on agreed-upon prices, rates, indices, etc. The nominal amount on which the cash flows are calculated is called the notional amount. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors, such as interest rates, foreign currency rates, mortgage securities, corporate borrowing rates, security prices or inflation rates.
Swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of the investments of the Fund and its share price. The performance of swap agreements may be affected by a change in the specific interest rate, currency, or other factors that determine the amounts of payments due to and from the Fund. If a swap agreement calls for payments by the Fund, the Fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. In addition, if the counterparty's creditworthiness declined, the value of a swap agreement would be likely to decline, potentially resulting in losses.
Generally, swap agreements have a fixed maturity date that will be agreed upon by the parties. The agreement can be terminated before the maturity date under certain circumstances, such as default by one of the parties or insolvency, among others, and can be transferred by a party only with the prior written consent of the other party. The Fund may be able to eliminate its exposure under a swap agreement either by assignment or by other disposition, or by entering into an offsetting swap agreement with the same party or a similarly creditworthy party. If the counterparty is unable to meet its obligations under the contract, declares bankruptcy, defaults or becomes insolvent, the Fund may not be able to recover the money it expected to receive under the contract.
A swap agreement can be a form of leverage, which can magnify the Fund's gains or losses. In order to reduce the risk associated with leveraging, the Fund may cover its current obligations under swap agreements according to guidelines established by the SEC. If the Fund enters into a swap agreement on a net basis, it will segregate assets with a daily value at least equal to the excess, if any, of the Fund's accrued obligations under the swap agreement over the accrued amount the Fund is entitled to receive under the agreement. If the Fund enters into a swap agreement on other than a net basis, it will segregate assets with a value equal to the full amount of the Fund's accrued obligations under the agreement.
o TOTAL RETURN SWAPS
Total return swaps are contracts in which one party agrees to make payments of the total return from the underlying asset during the specified period, in return for payments equal to a fixed or floating rate of interest or the total return from another underlying asset. The total return includes appreciation or depreciation on the underlying asset, plus any interest or dividend payments. Payments under the swap are based upon an agreed upon principal amount but since the principal amount is not exchanged, it represents neither an asset nor a liability to either counterparty, and is referred to as notional. Total return swaps are marked to market daily using different sources, including quotations from counterparties, pricing services, brokers or market makers. The unrealized appreciation (depreciation) related to the change in the valuation of the notional amount of the swap is combined with the amount due to the Fund at termination or settlement. The primary risks associated with total returns swaps are credit risks (if the counterparty fails to meet its obligations) and market risk (if there is no liquid market for the agreement or unfavorable changes occur to the underlying asset).
o EQUITY SWAPS
In a typical equity swap, one party agrees to pay another party the return on a stock, stock index or basket of stocks in return for a specified interest rate. By entering into an equity index swap, for example, the index receiver can gain exposure to stocks making up the index of securities without actually purchasing those stocks. Equity index swaps involve not only the risk
associated with investment in the securities represented in the index, but also the risk that the performance of such securities, including dividends, will not exceed the return on the interest rate that the Fund will be committed to pay.
o INTEREST RATE SWAPS
Interest rate swaps are financial instruments that involve the exchange of one type of interest rate for another type of interest rate cash flow on specified dates in the future. Some of the different types of interest rate swaps are "fixed-for floating rate swaps," "termed basis swaps" and "index amortizing swaps." Fixed-for floating rate swaps involve the exchange of fixed interest rate cash flows for floating rate cash flows. Termed basis swaps entail cash flows to both parties based on floating interest rates, where the interest rate indices are different. Index amortizing swaps are typically fixed-for floating swaps where the notional amount changes if certain conditions are met.
Like a traditional investment in a debt security, the Fund could lose money by investing in an interest rate swap if interest rates change adversely. For example, if the Fund enters into a swap where it agrees to exchange a floating rate of interest for a fixed rate of interest, the Fund may have to pay more money than it receives. Similarly, if the Fund enters into a swap where it agrees to exchange a fixed rate of interest for a floating rate of interest, the Fund may receive less money than it has agreed to pay.
o CURRENCY SWAPS
A currency swap is an agreement between two parties in which one party agrees to make interest rate payments in one currency and the other promises to make interest rate payments in another currency. The Fund may enter into a currency swap when it has one currency and desires a different currency. Typically the interest rates that determine the currency swap payments are fixed, although occasionally one or both parties may pay a floating rate of interest. Unlike an interest rate swap, however, the principal amounts are exchanged at the beginning of the contract and returned at the end of the contract. Changes in foreign exchange rates and changes in interest rates, as described above may negatively affect currency swaps.
CAPS, COLLARS AND FLOORS - Caps and floors have an effect similar to buying or writing options. In a typical cap or floor agreement, one party agrees to make payments only under specified circumstances, usually in return for payment of a fee by the other party. For example, the buyer of an interest rate cap obtains the right to receive payments to the extent that a specified interest rate exceeds an agreed-upon level. The seller of an interest rate floor is obligated to make payments to the extent that a specified interest rate falls below an agreed-upon level. An interest rate collar combines elements of buying a cap and selling a floor.
RISKS OF DERIVATIVES:
While transactions in derivatives may reduce certain risks, these transactions themselves entail certain other risks. For example, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in a poorer overall performance of the Fund than if it had not entered into any derivatives transactions. Derivatives may magnify the Fund's gains or losses, causing it to make or lose substantially more than it invested.
When used for hedging purposes, increases in the value of the securities the Fund holds or intends to acquire should offset any losses incurred with a derivative. Purchasing derivatives for purposes other than hedging could expose the Fund to greater risks.
CORRELATION OF PRICES - The Fund's ability to hedge its securities through derivatives depends on the degree to which price movements in the underlying index or instrument correlate with price movements in the relevant securities. In the case of poor correlation, the price of the securities the Fund is hedging may not move in the same amount, or even in the same direction as the hedging instrument. The Adviser will try to minimize this risk by investing only in those contracts whose behavior it expects to resemble with the portfolio securities it is trying to hedge. However, if the Fund's prediction of interest and currency rates, market value, volatility or other economic factors is incorrect, the Fund may lose money, or may not make as much money as it expected.
Derivative prices can diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the characteristics of the underlying instruments are very similar to the derivative. Listed below are some of the factors that may cause such a divergence:
o current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in
volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until
expiration of the contract;
o a difference between the derivatives and securities markets,
including different levels of demand, how the instruments are traded,
the imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading of an
instrument stops; and
o differences between the derivatives, such as different margin
requirements, different liquidity of such markets and the
participation of speculators in such markets.
Derivatives based upon a narrower index of securities, such as those of a particular industry group, may present greater risk than derivatives based on a broad market index. Since narrower indices are made up of a smaller number of securities, they are more susceptible to rapid and extreme price fluctuations because of changes in the value of those securities.
While currency futures and options values are expected to correlate with exchange rates, they may not reflect other factors that affect the value of the investments of the Fund. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a yen-denominated security from a decline in the yen, but will not protect the Fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of the Fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the Fund's investments precisely over time.
LACK OF LIQUIDITY - Before a futures contract or option is exercised or expires, the Fund can terminate it only by entering into a closing purchase or sale transaction. Moreover, the Fund may close out a futures contract only on the exchange the contract was initially traded. If there is no secondary market for the contract, or the market is illiquid, the Fund may not be able to close out its position. In an illiquid market, the Fund may:
o have to sell securities to meet its daily margin requirements at a
time when it is disadvantageous to do so;
o have to purchase or sell the instrument underlying the contract;
o not be able to hedge its investments; and
o not be able to realize profits or limit its losses.
Derivatives may become illiquid (i.e., difficult to sell at a desired time and price) under a variety of market conditions. For example:
o an exchange may suspend or limit trading in a particular derivative
instrument, an entire category of derivatives or all derivatives,
which sometimes occurs because of increased market volatility;
o unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations
of an exchange;
o the facilities of the exchange may not be adequate to handle current
trading volume;
o equipment failures, government intervention, insolvency of a
brokerage firm or clearing house or other occurrences may disrupt
normal trading activity; or
o investors may lose interest in a particular derivative or category of
derivatives.
MANAGEMENT RISK - If the Adviser incorrectly predicts stock market and interest rate trends, the Fund may lose money by investing in derivatives. For example, if the Fund were to write a call option based on the Adviser's expectation that the price of the underlying security would fall, but the price were to rise instead, the Fund could be required to sell the security upon exercise at a price below the current market price. Similarly, if the Fund were to write a put option based on the Adviser's expectation that the price of the underlying security would rise, but the price were to fall instead, the Fund could be required to purchase the security upon exercise at a price higher than the current market price.
PRICING RISK - At times, market conditions might make it hard to value some investments. For example, if the Fund has valued its securities too highly, you may end up paying too much for Fund shares when you buy into the Fund. If the Fund underestimates its price, you may not receive the full market value for your Fund shares when you sell.
MARGIN - Because of the low margin deposits required upon the opening of a derivative position, such transactions involve an extremely high degree of leverage. Consequently, a relatively small price movement in a derivative may result in an immediate
and substantial loss (as well as gain) to the Fund and it may lose more than it originally invested in the derivative.
If the price of a futures contract changes adversely, the Fund may have to sell securities at a time when it is disadvantageous to do so to meet its minimum daily margin requirement. The Fund may lose its margin deposits if a broker with whom it has an open futures contract or related option becomes insolvent or declares bankruptcy.
VOLATILITY AND LEVERAGE - The prices of derivatives are volatile (i.e., they may change rapidly, substantially and unpredictably) and are influenced by a variety of factors, including:
o actual and anticipated changes in interest rates;
o fiscal and monetary policies; and
o national and international political events.
Most exchanges limit the amount by which the price of a derivative can change during a single trading day. Daily trading limits establish the maximum amount that the price of a derivative may vary from the settlement price of that derivative at the end of trading on the previous day. Once the price of a derivative reaches this value, the Fund may not trade that derivative at a price beyond that limit. The daily limit governs only price movements during a given day and does not limit potential gains or losses. Derivative prices have occasionally moved to the daily limit for several consecutive trading days, preventing prompt liquidation of the derivative.
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS ("ETFS")
The Fund may invest in exchange-traded funds. ETFs may be structured as investment companies that are registered under the 1940 Act, typically as open-end funds or unit investment trusts. These ETFs are generally based on specific domestic and foreign market securities indices. An "index-based ETF" seeks to track the performance of an index by holding in its portfolio either the contents of the index or a representative sample of the securities in the index. Alternatively, ETFs may be structured as grantor trusts or other forms of pooled investment vehicles that are not registered or regulated under the 1940 Act. These ETFs typically hold commodities, precious metals, currency or other non-securities investments. ETFs, like mutual funds, have expenses associated with their operation, such as advisory and custody fees. When a Fund invests in an ETF, in addition to directly bearing expenses associated with its own operations, including the brokerage costs associated with the purchase and sale of shares of the ETF, the Fund will bear a pro rata portion of the ETF's expenses. In addition, it may be more costly to own an ETF than to directly own the securities or other investments held by the ETF because of ETF expenses. The risks of owning shares of an ETF generally reflect the risks of owning the underlying securities or other investments held by the ETF, although lack of liquidity in the market for the shares of an ETF could result in the ETF's value being more volatile than the underlying securities or other investments.
The Fund intends to invest in ETFs in a manner consistent with the Fund's intention to be taxable as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The Adviser, therefore, anticipates monitoring its investments in such ETFs very closely to keep the Fund's non-qualifying income within the acceptable limits so as to maintain its qualification as a regulated investment company. For more information, please see the discussion under "Taxes" below and in the Prospectus.
INVESTMENT COMPANIES
The Fund may invest in shares of other investment companies, to the extent permitted by applicable law and subject to certain restrictions. These investment companies typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by the Fund. The Fund's purchase of such investment company securities results in the layering of expenses, such that shareholders would indirectly bear a proportionate share of the operating expenses of such investment companies, including advisory fees, in addition to paying the Fund's expenses. Unless an exception is available, Section 12(d)(1)(A) of the 1940 Act prohibits a fund from (i) acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any one investment company, (ii) investing more than 5% of its total assets in any one investment company, and (iii) investing more than 10% of its total assets in all investment companies combined, including its ETF investments.
For hedging or other purposes, the Fund may invest in investment companies that seek to track the composition and/or performance of specific indexes or portions of specific indexes. Certain of these investment companies, known as exchange-traded funds, are traded on a securities exchange. The market prices of index-based investments will fluctuate in accordance with changes in the underlying portfolio securities of the investment company and also due to supply and demand of the investment company's shares on the exchange upon which the shares are traded. Index-based investments may not replicate or otherwise match the composition or performance of their specified index due to transaction costs, among other things.
Pursuant to orders issued by the SEC to each of certain iShares, Market Vectors, Vanguard, ProShares, PowerShares, Claymore, Direxion, Wisdom Tree, Rydex, First Trust and SPDR exchange-traded funds (collectively, the "ETFs") and procedures approved by the Board, the Fund may invest in the ETFs in excess of the limits described above, provided that the Fund otherwise complies with the conditions of the SEC order, as it may be amended, and any other applicable investment limitations. Neither the ETFs nor their investment advisers make any representations regarding the advisability of investing in the ETFs.
MONEY MARKET SECURITIES
Money market securities include short-term U.S. government securities; custodial receipts evidencing separately traded interest and principal components of securities issued by the U.S. Treasury; commercial paper rated in the highest short-term rating category by a nationally recognized statistical ratings organization ("NRSRO"), such as Standard & Poor's or Moody's, or determined by the Adviser to be of comparable quality at the time of purchase; short-term bank obligations (certificates of deposit, time deposits and bankers' acceptances) of U.S. commercial banks with assets of at least $1 billion as of the end of their most recent fiscal year; and repurchase agreements involving such securities. Each of these money market securities are described below. For a description of ratings, see "Appendix A -- Ratings" to this SAI.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with financial institutions. A
repurchase agreement is an agreement under which a fund acquires a fixed income
security (generally a security issued by the U.S. government or an agency
thereof, a banker's acceptance, or a certificate of deposit) from a commercial
bank, broker, or dealer, and simultaneously agrees to resell such security to
the seller at an agreed upon price and date (normally, the next business day).
Because the security purchased constitutes collateral for the repurchase
obligation, a repurchase agreement may be considered a loan that is
collateralized by the security purchased. The acquisition of a repurchase
agreement may be deemed to be an acquisition of the underlying securities as
long as the obligation of the seller to repurchase the securities is
collateralized fully. The Fund follows certain procedures designed to minimize
the risks inherent in such agreements. These procedures include effecting
repurchase transactions only with creditworthy financial institutions whose
condition will be continually monitored by the Adviser. The repurchase
agreements entered into by the Fund will provide that the underlying collateral
at all times shall have a value at least equal to 102% of the resale price
stated in the agreement and consist only of securities permissible under
Section 101(47)(A)(i) of the Bankruptcy Code (the Adviser monitors compliance
with this requirement). Under all repurchase agreements entered into by the
Fund, the custodian or its agent must take possession of the underlying
collateral. In the event of a default or bankruptcy by a selling financial
institution, the Fund will seek to liquidate such collateral. However, the
exercising of the Fund's right to liquidate such collateral could involve
certain costs or delays and, to the extent that proceeds from any sale upon a
default of the obligation to repurchase were less than the repurchase price,
the Fund could suffer a loss. It is the current policy of the Fund, not to
invest in repurchase agreements that do not mature within seven days if any
such investment, together with any other illiquid assets held by that Fund,
amounts to more than 15% of the Fund's total assets. The investments of the
Fund in repurchase agreements, at times, may be substantial when, in the view
of the Adviser, liquidity or other considerations so warrant.
SECURITIES LENDING
The Fund may lend portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other financial organizations that meet capital and other credit requirements or other criteria established by the Fund's Board of Trustees. These loans, if and when made, may not exceed 33 1/3% of the total asset value of the Fund (including the loan collateral). The Fund will not lend portfolio securities to its Adviser or its affiliates unless permissible under the 1940 Act and the rules and promulgations thereunder. Loans of portfolio securities will be fully collateralized by cash, letters of credit or U.S. government securities, and the collateral will be maintained in an
amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities by marking to market daily. Any gain or loss in the market price of the securities loaned that might occur during the term of the loan would be for the account of the Fund.
The Fund may pay a part of the interest earned from the investment of collateral, or other fee, to an unaffiliated third party for acting as the Fund's securities lending agent.
By lending its securities, the Fund may increase its income by receiving payments from the borrower that reflect the amount of any interest or any dividends payable on the loaned securities as well as by either investing cash collateral received from the borrower in short-term instruments or obtaining a fee from the borrower when U.S. government securities or letters of credit are used as collateral. The Fund will adhere to the following conditions whenever its portfolio securities are loaned: (i) the Fund must receive at least 100% cash collateral or equivalent securities of the type discussed in the preceding paragraph from the borrower; (ii) the borrower must increase such collateral whenever the market value of the securities rises above the level of such collateral; (iii) the Fund must be able to terminate the loan on demand; (iv) the Fund must receive reasonable interest on the loan, as well as any dividends, interest or other distributions on the loaned securities and any increase in market value; (v) the Fund may pay only reasonable fees in connection with the loan (which fees may include fees payable to the lending agent, the borrower, the Fund's administrator and the custodian); and (vi) voting rights on the loaned securities may pass to the borrower, provided, however, that if a material event adversely affecting the investment occurs, the Fund must terminate the loan and regain the right to vote the securities. The Board has adopted procedures reasonably designed to ensure that the foregoing criteria will be met. Loan agreements involve certain risks in the event of default or insolvency of the borrower, including possible delays or restrictions upon the Fund's ability to recover the loaned securities or dispose of the collateral for the loan, which could give rise to loss because of adverse market action, expenses and/or delays in connection with the disposition of the underlying securities.
ILLIQUID SECURITIES
Illiquid securities are securities that cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business (within seven days) at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Because of their illiquid nature, illiquid securities must be priced at fair value as determined in good faith pursuant to procedures approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees. Despite such good faith efforts to determine fair value prices, the Fund's illiquid securities are subject to the risk that the security's fair value price may differ from the actual price which the Fund may ultimately realize upon its sale or disposition. Difficulty in selling illiquid securities may result in a loss or may be costly to the Fund. Under the supervision of the Trust's Board of Trustees, the Adviser determines the liquidity of the Fund's investments. In determining the liquidity of the Fund's investments, the Adviser may consider various factors, including: (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations; (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace; (3) dealer undertakings to make a market; and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security). The Fund will not hold more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities.
RESTRICTED SECURITIES
Restricted securities are securities that may not be sold freely to the public
absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
"1933 Act") or an exemption from registration. As consistent with the Fund's
investment objective, the Fund may invest in Section 4(2) commercial paper.
Section 4(2) commercial paper is issued in reliance on an exemption from
registration under Section 4(2) of the Act and is generally sold to
institutional investors who purchase for investment. Any resale of such
commercial paper must be in an exempt transaction, usually to an institutional
investor through the issuer or investment dealers who make a market in such
commercial paper. The Trust believes that Section 4(2) commercial paper is
liquid to the extent it meets the criteria established by the Board of Trustees
of the Trust. The Trust intends to treat such commercial paper as liquid and
not subject to the investment limitations applicable to illiquid securities or
restricted securities.
SHORT SALES
As is consistent with the Fund's investment objective, the Fund may engage in short sales that are either "uncovered" or
"against the box." A short sale is "against the box" if at all times during which the short position is open, the Fund owns at least an equal amount of the securities or securities convertible into, or exchangeable without further consideration for, securities of the same issue as the securities that are sold short. A short sale against the box is a taxable transaction to the Fund with respect to the securities that are sold short.
Uncovered short sales are transactions under which the Fund sells a security it does not own. To complete such a transaction, the Fund must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund then is obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing the security at the market price at the time of the replacement. The price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the security was sold by the Fund. Until the security is replaced, the Fund is required to pay the lender amounts equal to any dividends or interest that accrue during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the Fund also may be required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the security sold. The proceeds of the short sale will be retained by the broker, to the extent necessary to meet margin requirements, until the short position is closed out.
Until the Fund closes its short position or replaces the borrowed security, the Fund will: (a) maintain a segregated account containing cash or liquid securities at such a level that (i) the amount deposited in the account plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will equal the current value of the security sold short; and (ii) the amount deposited in the segregated account plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will not be less than the market value of the security at the time the security was sold short; or (b) otherwise cover the Fund's short position.
SPECIAL SITUATIONS
The Fund may invest in securities of companies involved in "special situations." A special situation arises when, in the opinion of the Adviser, the securities of a company will, within a reasonably estimated time period, be accorded market recognition at an appreciated value solely by reason of a development particularly or uniquely applicable to that company and regardless of general business conditions or movements of the market as a whole. Such developments and situations include, but are not limited to: liquidations, reorganizations, recapitalizations or mergers, material litigation, technological breakthroughs, and new management or management policies. Special situations may involve greater risk than is found in the normal course of investing if the special situation does not produce the effect predicted by the Adviser.
INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
FUNDAMENTAL POLICIES
The following investment limitations are fundamental policies of the Fund that cannot be changed without the consent of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding shares. The phrase "majority of the outstanding shares" means the vote of (i) 67% or more of the Fund's shares present at a meeting, if more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding shares, whichever is less.
The Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities of an issuer that would cause the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification requirement for a diversified management company under the 1940 Act, the rules or regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
2. Concentrate investments in a particular industry or group of industries, as concentration is defined under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
3. Borrow money or issue senior securities (as defined under the 1940 Act), except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
4. Make loans, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption
therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
5. Purchase or sell commodities or real estate, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
6. Underwrite securities issued by other persons, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
The following descriptions of certain provisions of the 1940 Act may assist investors in understanding the above policies and restrictions:
DIVERSIFICATION. Under the 1940 Act, a diversified investment management company, as to 75% of its total assets, may not purchase securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agents or instrumentalities or securities of other investment companies) if, as a result, more than 5% of its total assets would be invested in the securities of such issuer, or more than 10% of the issuer's outstanding voting securities would be held by the fund.
CONCENTRATION. The SEC has defined concentration as investing 25% or more of an investment company's total assets in an industry or group of industries, with certain exceptions.
BORROWING. The 1940 Act allows a fund to borrow from any bank (including pledging, mortgaging or hypothecating assets) in an amount up to 33 1/3% of its total assets (not including temporary borrowings not in excess of 5% of its total assets).
SENIOR SECURITIES. Senior securities may include any obligation or instrument issued by a fund evidencing indebtedness. The 1940 Act generally prohibits funds from issuing senior securities, although it does not treat certain transactions as senior securities, such as certain borrowings, short sales, reverse repurchase agreements, firm commitment agreements and standby commitments, with appropriate earmarking or segregation of assets to cover such obligation.
LENDING. Under the 1940 Act, a fund may only make loans if expressly permitted by its investment policies. The Fund's current investment policy on lending is as follows: the Fund may not make loans if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, except that the Fund may: (i) purchase or hold debt instruments in accordance with its investment objective and policies; (ii) enter into repurchase agreements; and (iii) engage in securities lending as described in its Statement of Additional Information.
UNDERWRITING. Under the 1940 Act, underwriting securities involves a fund purchasing securities directly from an issuer for the purpose of selling (distributing) them or participating in any such activity either directly or indirectly. Under the 1940 Act, a diversified fund may not make any commitment as underwriter, if immediately thereafter the amount of its outstanding underwriting commitments, plus the value of its investments in securities of issuers (other than investment companies) of which it owns more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities, exceeds 25% of the value of its total assets.
COMMODITIES AND REAL ESTATE. The 1940 Act does not directly restrict an investment company's ability to invest in commodities or real estate, but does require that every investment company have a fundamental investment policy governing such investments. The Fund has adopted a fundamental policy that would permit direct investment in commodities and real estate. However, the Fund's current investment policy is as follows: the Fund will not purchase or sell real estate, physical commodities, or commodities contracts, except that the Fund may purchase: (i) marketable securities issued by companies which own or invest in real estate (including REITs), commodities, or commodities contracts; and (ii) commodities contracts relating to financial instruments, such as financial futures contracts and options on such contracts.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL POLICIES
In addition to the Fund's investment objective, the following investment limitations of the Fund are non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trust's Board of Trustees without shareholder approval. These non-fundamental policies are based upon the regulations currently set forth in the 1940 Act.
The Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities of any issuer (except securities of other investment companies, securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements involving such securities) if as a result more than 5% of the total assets of the Fund would be invested in the securities of such issuer; or (ii) acquire more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer. This restriction applies to 75% of the Fund's total assets.
2. Purchase any securities which would cause 25% or more of the total assets of the Fund to be invested in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry, provided that this limitation does not apply to investments in obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements involving such securities. For purposes of this limitation, (i) utility companies will be classified according to their services, for example, gas distribution, gas transmission, electric and telephone will each be considered a separate industry; and (ii) financial service companies will be classified according to the end users of their services, for example, automobile finance, bank finance and diversified finance will each be considered a separate industry.
3. Borrow money in an amount exceeding 33 1/3% of the value of its total assets, provided that, for purposes of this limitation, investment strategies that either obligate the Fund to purchase securities or require the Fund to segregate assets are not considered to be borrowing. Asset coverage of at least 300% is required for all borrowing, except where the Fund has borrowed money for temporary purposes in an amount not exceeding 5% of its total assets.
4. Make loans if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, except that the Fund may (i) purchase or hold debt instruments in accordance with its investment objective and policies; (ii) enter into repurchase agreements; and (iii) lend its securities.
5. Purchase or sell real estate, real estate limited partnership interests, physical commodities or commodities contracts except that the Fund may purchase (i) marketable securities issued by companies which own or invest in real estate (including real estate investment trusts), commodities or commodities contracts; and (ii) commodities contracts relating to financial instruments, such as financial futures contracts and options on such contracts.
6. Hold illiquid securities in an amount exceeding, in the aggregate, 15% of the Fund's net assets.
Except with respect to Fund policies concerning borrowing and illiquid securities, if a percentage restriction is adhered to at the time of an investment, a later increase or decrease in percentage resulting from changes in values or assets will not constitute a violation of such restriction. With respect to the limitation on illiquid securities, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause the Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of illiquid instruments back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable. With respect to the limitation on borrowing, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause the Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of borrowing back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable.
THE ADVISER
GENERAL. Lowry Hill Investment Advisors, Inc., a Minnesota corporation formed in 1986, serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. The Adviser is a subsidiary of Wells Fargo and Co., and is an affiliate of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. (i.e. Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. d/b/a Lowry Hill). The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 90 South Seventh Street, Suite 5300, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402. The Adviser manages and supervises the investment of the Fund's assets on a discretionary basis. As of July 31, 2010, the Adviser had approximately $4.6 billion in assets under management.
ADVISORY AGREEMENT WITH THE TRUST. The Trust and the Adviser have entered into an investment advisory agreement (the "Advisory Agreement"). Under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser serves as the investment adviser and makes investment decisions for the Fund and continuously reviews, supervises and administers the investment program of the Fund, subject to the supervision of, and policies established by, the Trustees of the Trust. After the initial two year term, the continuance of the Advisory Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Advisory Agreement or "interested persons" of any party thereto, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Advisory Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment, and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or, with respect to any Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, on not less than 30-days' nor more than 60-days' written notice to the Adviser, or by the Adviser on 90-days' written notice to the Trust. The Advisory Agreement provides that the Adviser shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of misfeasance, or negligence generally in the performance of its duties or from its negligent disregard of its obligations or duties thereunder.
ADVISORY FEES PAID TO THE ADVISER. For its services under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.85% of the average daily net assets of the Fund. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its fees and reimburse expenses to the extent necessary in order to keep total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 1.20% of the Fund's average daily net assets. The Adviser may discontinue all or a portion of its fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual Fund operating expenses and 1.20% to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expense limitation reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period.
For the fiscal period ended July 31, 2009 and the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010 the Fund paid the following in advisory fees:
Contractual Advisory Fees Paid Fees Waived by the Adviser Total Fees Paid to the Adviser --------------------------------- -------------------------- --------------------------------------------- 2009(1) 2010 2009(1) 2010 2009(1) 2010 ---------------- ---------------- --------- ---------------- --------------------------------------------- $158,956 $XX $116,394 $XX $42,562 $XX ---------------- ---------------- --------- ---------------- --------------------------------------------- 1 Represents the period between February 3, 2009 (commencement of Fund operations) and July 31, 2009. |
THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
This section includes information about the Fund's portfolio managers, including information about other accounts they manage, the dollar range of Fund shares they own and how they are compensated.
COMPENSATION. The Adviser compensates the Fund's portfolio managers for their
management of the Fund. Each of the Fund's portfolio managers' compensation
consists of a base salary. Additionally, each portfolio manager is a
participant in the Lowry Hill Incentive Compensation Plan, which is an
incentive pool funded by the profitability of the Adviser (a subsidiary of
Wells Fargo and Co.) and Lowry Hill (an affiliate of Wells Fargo Bank N.A.).
Individual payments under the Incentive Compensation Plan are based upon each
portfolio manager's performance over the past fiscal year, including: (i)
client assets managed; (ii) individual contribution through stock selection;
(iii) client retention; and (iv) new business from client additions or new
client assets.
Fund Shares Owned by Portfolio Managers. The Fund is required to show the dollar amount range of each portfolio manager's "beneficial ownership" of shares of the Fund. Dollar amount ranges disclosed are established by the SEC. "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the 1934 Act.
NAME DOLLAR RANGE OF FUND SHARES OWNED(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James Steiner $100,001-$500,000 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thomas Hull None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jeffrey Erickson $100,001-$500,000 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thomas Gunderson $100,001-$500,000 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cameron Johnson None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 Valuation date is July 31, 2010. |
OTHER ACCOUNTS. In addition to the Fund, certain portfolio managers are responsible for the day-to-day management of certain other accounts, as listed below. The information below is provided as of July 31, 2009.
REGISTERED OTHER POOLED INVESTMENT COMPANIES INVESTMENT VEHICLES OTHER ACCOUNTS ---------------------- ---------------------- ---------------------- NUMBER OF NUMBER OF NUMBER OF NAME ACCOUNTS TOTAL ASSETS ACCOUNTS TOTAL ASSETS ACCOUNTS TOTAL ASSETS ---------------- --------- ------------ --------- ------------ --------- ------------ James Steiner 46 $337,026,501 ---------------- --------- ------------ --------- ------------ --------- ------------ Thomas Hull 225 $345,313,404 ---------------- --------- ------------ --------- ------------ --------- ------------ Jeffrey Erickson 163 $259,721,508 ---------------- --------- ------------ --------- ------------ --------- ------------ Thomas Gunderson 113 $133,099,452 ---------------- --------- ------------ --------- ------------ --------- ------------ Cameron Johnson 107 $396,072,557 ---------------- --------- ------------ --------- ------------ --------- ------------ |
CONFLICTS OF INTERESTS. The portfolio managers' management of "other accounts" may give rise to potential conflicts of interest in connection with their management of the Fund's investments, on the one hand, and the investments of the other accounts, on the other. The other accounts may have the same investment objective as the Fund. Therefore, a potential conflict of interest may arise as a result of the identical investment objectives, whereby a portfolio manager could favor one account over another. Another potential conflict could include the portfolio managers' knowledge about the size, timing and possible market impact of Fund trades, whereby a portfolio manager could use this information to the advantage of other accounts and to the disadvantage of the Fund. However, the Adviser has established policies and procedures to ensure that the purchase and sale of securities among all accounts it manages are fairly and equitably allocated.
THE ADMINISTRATOR
GENERAL. SEI Investments Global Funds Services (the "Administrator"), a Delaware statutory trust, has its principal business offices at One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. SEI Investments Management Corporation ("SIMC"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI Investments Company ("SEI Investments"), is the owner of all beneficial interest in the Administrator. SEI Investments and its subsidiaries and affiliates, including the Administrator, are leading providers of funds evaluation services, trust accounting systems, and brokerage and information services to financial institutions, institutional investors, and money managers. The Administrator and its affiliates also serve as administrator or sub-administrator to other mutual funds.
ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT WITH THE TRUST. The Trust and the Administrator have entered into an administration agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12, 2002 (the "Administration Agreement"). Under the Administration Agreement, the Administrator provides the Trust with administrative services, including regulatory reporting and all necessary office space, equipment, personnel and facilities. Pursuant to a schedule to the Administration Agreement, the Administrator also serves as the shareholder servicing agent for the Fund whereby the Administrator provides certain shareholder services to the Fund.
The Administration Agreement provides that the Administrator shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with the matters to which the Administration Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Administrator in the performance of its duties
or from reckless disregard by it of its duties and obligations thereunder.
ADMINISTRATION FEES PAID. The Administrator provides the Trust with administrative services, including regulatory reporting and all necessary office space, equipment, personnel and facilities. For these administrative services, the Administrator is entitled to a fee, which is detailed below in the following schedule:
Fee (as a percentage of aggregate average annual assets) Fund's Average Daily Net Assets -------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------- 0.12% First $100 million -------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------- 0.10% Next $150 million -------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------- 0.08% Next $250 million -------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------- 0.06% Over $500 million -------------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------- |
The foregoing fee is subject to a minimum annual fee of $100,000 per Fund of the Lowry Hill funds complex plus an additional $15,000 for each additional class of shares of a Fund established after the first two (2) classes of shares per Fund.
For the fiscal period ended July 31, 2009 and the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010 the Fund paid the Administrator the following fees:
Contractual Fees Paid Fees Waived by the Administrator Total Fees Paid ----------------------- -------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------ 2009(1) 2010 2009(1) 2010 2009(1) 2010 ----------- ----------- ------------- ------------------ ------------------------------------------------ $49,041 $XX $0 $XX $49,041 $XX ----------- ----------- ------------- ------------------ ------------------------------------------------ 1 Represents the period between February 3, 2009 (commencement of Fund operations) and July 31, 2009. |
THE DISTRIBUTOR
GENERAL. SEI Investments Distribution Co. (the "Distributor"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI, and the Trust are parties to a distribution agreement dated May 31, 2000 ("Distribution Agreement"). The principal business address of the Distributor is One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456.
The continuance of the Distribution Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operations of the Distribution Agreement or any related agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Distribution Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act), and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or, with respect to the Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, upon not more than 60 days' written notice by either party. The Distribution Agreement provides that the Distributor shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard of its obligations or duties thereunder.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
The Adviser and/or its affiliates, in their discretion, may make payments from their own resources and not from Fund assets to affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Fund, their service providers or their respective affiliates, as incentives to help market and promote the Fund and/or in recognition of their distribution, marketing, administrative services, and/or processing support.
These additional payments may be made to financial intermediaries that sell Fund shares or provide services to the Fund, the
Distributor or shareholders of the Fund through the financial intermediary's retail distribution channel and/or fund supermarkets. Payments may also be made through the financial intermediary's retirement, qualified tuition, fee-based advisory, wrap fee bank trust, or insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. These payments may include, but are not limited to, placing the Fund in a financial intermediary's retail distribution channel or on a preferred or recommended fund list; providing business or shareholder financial planning assistance; educating financial intermediary personnel about the Fund; providing access to sales and management representatives of the financial intermediary; promoting sales of Fund shares; providing marketing and educational support; maintaining share balances and/or for sub-accounting, administrative or shareholder transaction processing services. A financial intermediary may perform the services itself or may arrange with a third party to perform the services.
The Adviser and/or its affiliates may also make payments from their own resources to financial intermediaries for costs associated with the purchase of products or services used in connection with sales and marketing, participation in and/or presentation at conferences or seminars, sales or training programs, client and investor entertainment and other sponsored events. The costs and expenses associated with these efforts may include travel, lodging, sponsorship at educational seminars and conferences, entertainment and meals to the extent permitted by law.
Revenue sharing payments may be negotiated based on a variety of factors, including the level of sales, the amount of Fund assets attributable to investments in the Fund by financial intermediaries' customers, a flat fee or other measures as determined from time to time by the Adviser and/or its affiliates. A significant purpose of these payments is to increase the sales of Fund shares, which in turn may benefit the Adviser through increased fees as Fund assets grow.
THE TRANSFER AGENT
DST Systems, Inc., 333 W. 11(th) Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105 (the "Transfer Agent"), serves as the transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent for the Fund under a transfer agency agreement with the Trust.
THE CUSTODIAN
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., 608 2(nd) Avenue South, 9(th) Floor, Minneapolis, MN, 55479 (the "Custodian"), acts as custodian of the Fund. The Custodian holds cash, securities and other assets of the Fund as required by the 1940 Act. Under the Custody Agreement, the Fund shall pay Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. 0.02% of the Fund's average daily net assets.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Briggs, Bunting & Dougherty, LLP, 1835 Market Street, 26th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103, serves as independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund. Briggs, Bunting& Dougherty, LLP performs annual audits of the Fund's financial statements.
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, 1701 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-2921, serves as legal counsel to the Trust.
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST
BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES. The management and affairs of the Trust and its series, including the Funds described in this SAI, are overseen by the Trustees. The Board has approved contracts, as described above, under which certain companies provide essential management services to the Trust.
Like most mutual funds, the day-to-day business of the Trust, including the management of risk, is performed by third party service providers, such as the Adviser, Distributor and Administrator. The Trustees are responsible for overseeing the Trust's service providers and, thus, have oversight responsibility with respect to risk management performed by those service providers. Risk management seeks to identify and address risks, i.e., events or circumstances that could have material adverse effects on
the business, operations, shareholder services, investment performance or reputation of the Funds. The Funds and their service providers employ a variety of processes, procedures and controls to identify various of those possible events or circumstances, to lessen the probability of their occurrence and/or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur. Each service provider is responsible for one or more discrete aspects of the Trust's business (e.g., the Adviser is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio investments) and, consequently, for managing the risks associated with that business. The Board has emphasized to the Funds' service providers the importance of maintaining vigorous risk management.
The Trustees' role in risk oversight begins before the inception of a Fund, at which time certain of the Fund's service providers present the Board with information concerning the investment objectives, strategies and risks of the Fund as well as proposed investment limitations for the Fund. Additionally, the Fund's Adviser provides the Board with an overview of, among other things, its investment philosophy, brokerage practices and compliance infrastructure. Thereafter, the Board continues its oversight function as various personnel, including the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer, as well as personnel of the Adviser and other service providers such as the Fund's independent accountants, make periodic reports to the Audit Committee or to the Board with respect to various aspects of risk management. The Board and the Audit Committee oversee efforts by management and service providers to manage risks to which the Funds may be exposed.
The Board is responsible for overseeing the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Funds by the Adviser and receives information about those services at its regular meetings. In addition, on an annual basis, in connection with its consideration of whether to renew the Advisory Agreement with the Adviser, the Board meets with the Adviser to review such services. Among other things, the Board regularly considers the Adviser's adherence to the Funds' investment restrictions and compliance with various Fund policies and procedures and with applicable securities regulations. The Board also reviews information about the Funds' investments, including, for example, portfolio holdings schedules and reports on the Adviser's use of derivatives in managing the Funds, if any, as well as reports on the Funds' investments in ETFs, if any.
The Trust's Chief Compliance Officer reports regularly to the Board to review and discuss compliance issues and Fund and Adviser risk assessments. At least annually, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer provides the Board with a report reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Trust's policies and procedures and those of its service providers, including the Adviser. The report addresses the operation of the policies and procedures of the Trust and each service provider since the date of the last report; any material changes to the policies and procedures since the date of the last report; any recommendations for material changes to the policies and procedures; and any material compliance matters since the date of the last report.
The Board receives reports from the Funds' service providers regarding operational risks and risks related to the valuation and liquidity of portfolio securities. The Trust's Fair Value Pricing Committee makes regular reports to the Board concerning investments for which market quotations are not readily available. Annually, the independent registered public accounting firm reviews with the Audit Committee its audit of the Funds' financial statements, focusing on major areas of risk encountered by the Funds and noting any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the Funds' internal controls. Additionally, in connection with its oversight function, the Board oversees Fund management's implementation of disclosure controls and procedures, which are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Trust in its periodic reports with the SEC are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the required time periods. The Board also oversees the Trust's internal controls over financial reporting, which comprise policies and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of the Trust's financial reporting and the preparation of the Trust's financial statements.
From their review of these reports and discussions with the Adviser, the Chief Compliance Officer, the independent registered public accounting firm and other service providers, the Board and the Audit Committee learn in detail about the material risks of the Funds, thereby facilitating a dialogue about how management and service providers identify and mitigate those risks.
The Board recognizes that not all risks that may affect the Funds can be identified and/or quantified, that it may not be practical or cost-effective to eliminate or mitigate certain risks, that it may be necessary to bear certain risks (such as investment-related risks) to achieve the Funds' goals, and that the processes, procedures and controls employed to address certain risks may be limited in their effectiveness. Moreover, reports received by the Trustees as to risk management matters are typically summaries of the relevant information. Most of the Funds' investment management and business affairs are carried out by or through the Funds' Adviser and other service providers each of which has an independent interest in risk management but whose policies and the methods by which one or more risk management functions are carried out may differ from the Funds' and each other's
in the setting of priorities, the resources available or the effectiveness of relevant controls. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, the Board's ability to monitor and manage risk, as a practical matter, is subject to limitations.
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD. There are eight members of the Board of Trustees, six of whom are not interested persons of the Trust, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act ("independent Trustees"). Robert Nesher, an interested person of the Trust, serves as Chairman of the Board. George Sullivan, an independent Trustee, serves as the lead independent Trustee. The Trust has determined its leadership structure is appropriate given the specific characteristics and circumstances of the Trust. The Trust made this determination in consideration of, among other things, the fact that the independent Trustees constitute a super-majority (75%) of the Board, the fact that the chairperson of each Committee of the Board is an independent Trustee, the amount of assets under management in the Trust, and the number of Funds (and classes of shares) overseen by the Board. The Board also believes that its leadership structure facilitates the orderly and efficient flow of information to the independent Trustees from Fund management.
The Board of Trustees has three standing committees: the Audit Committee, Governance Committee and Fair Value Pricing Committee. The Audit Committee and Governance Committee are chaired by an independent Trustee and composed of all of the independent Trustees. In addition, the Board of Trustees has a lead independent Trustee.
In his role as lead independent Trustee, Mr. Sullivan, among other things:
presides over board meetings in the absence of the Chairman of the Board;
presides over executive sessions of the independent Trustees; along with the
Chairman of the Board, oversees the development of agendas for Board meetings;
facilitates communication between the independent Trustees and management, and
among the independent Trustees; serves as a key point person for dealings
between the independent Trustees and management; and has such other
responsibilities as the Board or independent Trustees determine from time to
time.
Set forth below are the names, dates of birth, position with the Trust, length of term of office, and the principal occupations and other directorships held during at least the last five years of each of the persons currently serving as a Trustee of the Trust. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each Trustee is SEI Investments Company, One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456.
POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ------------------- -------------------- ---------------------- -------------------------------------------------- Interested Trustees ------------------- -------------------- ---------------------- -------------------------------------------------- Robert Nesher Chairman of the SEI employee 1974 to Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (08/17/46) Board of Trustees(1) present; currently Bishop Street Funds, SEI Daily Income Trust, (since 1991) performs various SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI services on behalf of Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional SEI Investments for Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI which Mr. Nesher is Asset Allocation Trust and SEI Tax Exempt compensated. President Trust. President and Director of SEI and Director of SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P. and SEI Structured Opportunity Fund, L.P. Credit Fund, L.P. Director of SEI Global and SEI Structured Master Fund plc, SEI Global Assets Fund plc, Credit Fund, LP. SEI Global Investments Fund plc, SEI President and Chief Investments--Global Funds Services, Limited, Executive Officer of SEI Investments Global, Limited, SEI SEI Alpha Strategy Investments (Europe) Ltd., SEI Investments-- Portfolios, LP, June Unit Trust Management (UK) Limited, SEI 2007 to present. Multi-Strategy Funds PLC, SEI Global Nominee Ltd. and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP. ------------------- -------------------- ---------------------- -------------------------------------------------- 33 |
POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS -------------------- -------------- ------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- William M. Doran Trustee(1) Self-Employed Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (05/26/40) (since 1992) Consultant since 2003. Bishop Street Funds, SEI Daily Income Trust, Partner at Morgan, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Lewis & Bockius LLP Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional (law firm) from 1976 to Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI 2003. Counsel to the Asset Allocation Trust and SEI Tax Exempt Trust, SEI Investments, Trust. Director of SEI Alpha Strategy SIMC, the Administrator Portfolios, LP. Director of SEI Investments and the Distributor. (Europe), Limited, SEI Investments--Global Funds Services, Limited, SEI Investments Global, Limited, SEI Investments (Asia), Limited and SEI Asset Korea Co., Ltd. Director of the Distributor since 2003. -------------------- -------------- ------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES -------------------- -------------- ------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- Charles E. Carlbom Trustee Self-Employed Business Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund and (08/20/34) (since 2005) Consultant, Business Bishop Street Funds; Director of Oregon Projects Inc. since 1997. Transfer Co. -------------------- -------------- ------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- John K. Darr Trustee Retired. CEO, Office of Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund and (08/17/44) (since 2008) Finance, Federal Home Bishop Street Funds, Director of Federal Home Loan Bank, from 1992 to Loan Bank of Pittsburgh and Manna, Inc. (non- 2007. profit developer of affordable housing for ownership). -------------------- -------------- ------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- Mitchell A. Johnson Trustee Retired. Private Investor Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (03/01/42) (since 2005) since 1994. Bishop Street Funds, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP. Director, Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac) since 1997. -------------------- -------------- ------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- Betty L. Krikorian Trustee Vice President, Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund and (01/23/43) (since 2005) Compliance, AARP Bishop Street Funds. Financial Inc. from 2008 to 2010. Self-Employed Legal and Financial Services Consultant since 2003. Counsel (in-house) for State Street Bank from 1995 to 2003. -------------------- -------------- ------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- James M. Storey Trustee Attorney, Solo Trustee/Director of The Advisors' Inner Circle (04/12/31) (since 1994) Practitioner since 1994. Fund, Bishop Street Funds, U.S. Charitable Gift Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, L.P. -------------------- -------------- ------------------------- -------------------------------------------------- 34 |
POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ----------------------- -------------- ---------------------- -------------------------------------------------- George J. Sullivan, Jr. Trustee Self-employed Trustee/Director of State Street Navigator (11/13/42) (since 1999) Consultant, Newfound Securities Lending Trust, The Advisors' Inner Consultants Inc. since Circle Fund, Bishop Street Funds, SEI April 1997. Opportunity Fund, L.P., SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP; member of the independent review committee for SEI's Canadian-registered mutual funds. ----------------------- -------------- ---------------------- -------------------------------------------------- |
1 Denotes Trustees who may be deemed to be "interested" persons of the Fund as that term is defined in the 1940 Act by virtue of their affiliation with the Distributor and/or its affiliates.
Individual Trustee Qualifications
The Trust has concluded that each of the Trustees should serve on the Board because of their ability to review and understand information about the Funds provided to them by management, to identify and request other information they may deem relevant to the performance of their duties, to question management and other service providers regarding material factors bearing on the management and administration of the Funds, and to exercise their business judgment in a manner that serves the best interests of the Funds' shareholders. The Trust has concluded that each of the Trustees should serve as a Trustee based on their own experience, qualifications, attributes and skills as described below.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Nesher should serve as Trustee because of the experience he has gained in his various roles with SEI Investments Company, which he joined in 1974, his knowledge of and experience in the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1991.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Doran should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained serving as a Partner in the Investment Management and Securities Industry Practice of a large law firm, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1991.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Carlbom should serve as Trustee because of the business experience he gained as President and CEO of a large distribution cooperative and Chairman of a consulting company, his knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Funds since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Darr should serve as Trustee because of his background in economics, the business experience he gained in a variety of roles with different financial and banking institutions and as a founder of a money management firm, his knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2008.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Johnson should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained as President and founder of an investment management firm, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services and banking industries, the experience he gained serving as a director of other mutual funds, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Ms. Krikorian should serve as Trustee because of the experience she gained serving as a legal and financial services consultant, in-house counsel to a large custodian bank and Vice President of Compliance of an investment
adviser, her background in fiduciary and banking law, her experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience she has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Storey should serve as Trustee because of the mutual fund governance experience he gained as an Investment Management attorney, both in private practice and with the SEC, his background serving as counsel to numerous mutual fund boards of trustees, his knowledge of the 1940 Act, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1994.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Sullivan should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained as a certified public accountant and financial consultant, his experience in and knowledge of public company accounting and auditing and the financial services industry, the experience he gained as an officer of a large financial services firm in its operations department and his experience from serving as trustee of the Trust since 1999.
In its periodic assessment of the effectiveness of the Board, the Board considers the complementary individual skills and experience of the individual Trustees primarily in the broader context of the Board's overall composition so that the Board, as a body, possesses the appropriate (and appropriately diverse) skills and experience to oversee the business of the funds. Moreover, references to the qualifications, attributes and skills of Trustees are pursuant to requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, do not constitute holding out of the Board or any Trustee as having any special expertise or experience, and shall not be deemed to impose any greater responsibility or liability on any such person or on the Board by reason thereof.
BOARD COMMITTEES. The Board has established the following standing committees:
o AUDIT COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Audit Committee that is
composed of each of the independent Trustees of the Trust. The Audit
Committee operates under a written charter approved by the Board. The
principal responsibilities of the Audit Committee include:
recommending which firm to engage as each fund's independent
registered public accounting firm and whether to terminate this
relationship; reviewing the independent registered public accounting
firm's compensation, the proposed scope and terms of its engagement,
and the firm's independence; pre-approving audit and non-audit
services provided by each fund's independent registered public
accounting firm to the Trust and certain other affiliated entities;
serving as a channel of communication between the independent
registered public accounting firm and the Trustees; reviewing the
results of each external audit, including any qualifications in the
independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, any related
management letter, management's responses to recommendations made by
the independent registered public accounting firm in connection with
the audit, reports submitted to the Committee by the internal auditing
department of the Trust's Administrator that are material to the Trust
as a whole, if any, and management's responses to any such reports;
reviewing each fund's audited financial statements and considering any
significant disputes between the Trust's management and the
independent registered public accounting firm that arose in connection
with the preparation of those financial statements; considering, in
consultation with the independent registered public accounting firm
and the Trust's senior internal accounting executive, if any, the
independent registered public accounting firms' reports on the
adequacy of the Trust's internal financial controls; reviewing, in
consultation with each fund's independent registered public accounting
firm, major changes regarding auditing and accounting principles and
practices to be followed when preparing each fund's financial
statements; and other audit related matters. Messrs. Carlbom, Darr,
Johnson, Storey, Sullivan and Ms. Krikorian currently serve as members
of the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee meets periodically, as
necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal
year.
o FAIR VALUE PRICING COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Fair Value Pricing Committee that is composed of at least one Trustee and various representatives of the Trust's service providers, as appointed by the Board. The Fair Value Pricing Committee operates under procedures approved by the Board. The principal responsibility of the Fair Value Pricing Committee is to determine the fair value of securities for which current market quotations are not readily available. The Fair Value Pricing Committee's determinations are reviewed by the Board. Mr. Nesher, interested trustee, currently serves as the Board's delegate on the Fair Value Pricing Committee. The Fair Value Pricing Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
o GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Governance Committee (formerly the Nominating Committee) that is composed of each of the independent Trustees of the Trust. The Governance Committee operates under a written charter approved by the Board. The principal responsibilities of the Governance Committee include: considering and reviewing Board governance and compensation issues; conducting a self-assessment of the Board's operations; selecting and nominating all persons to serve as Independent Trustees and evaluating the qualifications of "interested" Trustee candidates; and reviewing shareholder recommendations for nominations to fill vacancies on the Board if such recommendations are submitted in writing and addressed to the Committee at the Trust's office. Ms. Krikorian and Messrs. Carlbom, Darr, Johnson, Storey and Sullivan, currently serve as members of the Governance Committee. The Governance Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
FUND SHARES OWNED BY BOARD MEMBERS. The following table shows the dollar amount range of each Trustee's "beneficial ownership" of shares of the Fund as of the end of the most recently completed calendar year. Dollar amount ranges disclosed are established by the SEC. "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the 1934 Act. The Trustees and officers of the Trust own less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Trust.
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF SHARES NAME DOLLAR RANGE OF FUND SHARES (ALL FUNDS)(1) -------------------- --------------------------- ------------------------------- Interested Trustees ==================== --------------------------- ------------------------------- Nesher None None -------------------- --------------------------- ------------------------------- Doran None None -------------------- --------------------------- ------------------------------- Independent Trustees ==================== --------------------------- ------------------------------- Carlbom None None -------------------- --------------------------- ------------------------------- Darr None None -------------------- --------------------------- ------------------------------- Johnson None None -------------------- --------------------------- ------------------------------- Krikorian None None -------------------- --------------------------- ------------------------------- Storey None None -------------------- --------------------------- ------------------------------- Sullivan None None -------------------- --------------------------- ------------------------------- |
1 Valuation date is December 31, 2009.
BOARD COMPENSATION. The Trust paid the following fees to the Trustees during its most recently completed fiscal year.
PENSION OR RETIREMENT BENEFITS ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL COMPENSATION FROM AGGREGATE ACCRUED AS PART OF BENEFITS UPON THE TRUST AND FUND NAME COMPENSATION FUND EXPENSES RETIREMENT COMPLEX(2) ------------------- ------------ ------------------- ---------------- ------------------------- $0 for service on one (1) Robert A. Nesher(1) $0 N/A N/A board ------------------- ------------ ------------------- ---------------- ------------------------- $0 for service on one (1) William M. Doran(1) $0 N/A N/A board ------------------- ------------ ------------------- ---------------- ------------------------- Charles E. Carlbom $XX N/A N/A $XX ------------------- ------------ ------------------- ---------------- ------------------------- John K. Darr $XX N/A N/A $XX ------------------- ------------ ------------------- ---------------- ------------------------- Mitchell A. Johnson $XX N/A N/A $XX ------------------- ------------ ------------------- ---------------- ------------------------- Betty L. Krikorian $XX N/A N/A $XX ------------------- ------------ ------------------- ---------------- ------------------------- 37 |
PENSION OR RETIREMENT BENEFITS ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL COMPENSATION FROM AGGREGATE ACCRUED AS PART OF BENEFITS UPON THE TRUST AND FUND NAME COMPENSATION FUND EXPENSES RETIREMENT COMPLEX(2) ------------------- ------------ ------------------- ---------------- ------------------------- James M. Storey $XX N/A N/A $XX ------------------- ------------ ------------------- ---------------- ------------------------- George J. Sullivan $XX N/A N/A $XX ------------------- ------------ ------------------- ---------------- ------------------------- |
1 A Trustee who is an "interested person" as defined by the 1940 Act.
2 The Trust is the only investment company in the "Fund Complex."
TRUST OFFICERS. Set forth below are the names, dates of birth, position with the Trust, and the principal occupations for the last five years of each of the persons currently serving as the Executive Officers of the Trust. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each officer is SEI Investments Company, One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. The Chief Compliance Officer is the only officer who receives compensation from the Trust for his services.
Certain officers of the Trust also serve as officers of one or more mutual funds for which SEI Investments Company or its affiliates act as investment manager, administrator or distributor.
NAME AND POSITION WITH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS IN PAST 5 OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH TRUST AND YEARS LENGTH OF TERM ------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------- ------------------------ Philip T. President Managing Director of SEI Investments None. Masterson (since 2008) since 2006. Vice President and Assistant (03/12/64) Secretary of the Administrator from 2004 to 2006. General Counsel of Citco Mutual Fund Services from 2003 to 2004. Vice President and Associate Counsel for the Oppenheimer Funds from 2001 to 2003. ------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------- ------------------------ Michael Treasurer, Director, SEI Investments, Fund None. Lawson Controller and Accounting since July 2005. Manager, (10/08/60) Chief Financial SEI Investments, Fund Accounting at SEI Officer Investments AVP from April 1995 to (since 2005) February 1998 and November 1998 to July 2005. ------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------- ------------------------ Russell Emery Chief Compliance Chief Compliance Officer of SEI None. (12/18/62) Officer Structured Credit Fund, LP and SEI (since 2006) Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP since June 2007. Chief Compliance Officer of SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P., SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust and SEI Tax Exempt Trust since March 2006. Director of Investment Product Management and Development, SEI Investments, since ------------- ---------------- ---------------------------------------- ------------------------ 38 |
NAME AND POSITION WITH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS IN PAST 5 OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH TRUST AND YEARS LENGTH OF TERM -------------- ------------------- --------------------------------------- ------------------------ February 2003; Senior Investment Analyst -- Equity Team, SEI Investments, from March 2000 to February 2003. -------------- ------------------- --------------------------------------- ------------------------ Carolyn Mead Vice President and Counsel at SEI Investments since None. (07/08/57) Assistant Secretary 2007. Associate at Stradley, Ronon, (since 2007) Stevens & Young from 2004 to 2007. Counsel at ING Variable Annuities from 1999 to 2002. -------------- ------------------- --------------------------------------- ------------------------ Timothy D. Vice President and General Counsel and Secretary of None. Barto Assistant Secretary SIMC and the Administrator since (03/28/68) (since 1999) 2004. Vice President of SIMC and the Administrator since 1999. Vice President and Assistant Secretary of SEI Investments since 2001. Assistant Secretary of SIMC, the Administrator and the Distributor, and Vice President of the Distributor from 1999 to 2003. -------------- ------------------- --------------------------------------- ------------------------ James Ndiaye Vice President Vice President and Assistant None. (09/11/68) and Assistant Secretary of SIMC since 2005. Vice Secretary President at Deutsche Asset (since 2004) Management from 2003 to 2004. Associate at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP from 2000 to 2003. -------------- ------------------- --------------------------------------- ------------------------ Joseph Gallo Vice President Counsel at SEI Investments since None. (04/29/73) and Secretary 2007. Associate Counsel at ICMA-- (since 2007) RC from 2004 to 2007. Assistant Secretary of The VantageTrust Company in 2007. Assistant Secretary of The Vantagepoint Funds from 2006 to 2007. -------------- ------------------- --------------------------------------- ------------------------ Andrew S. AML Officer Compliance Officer and Product Manager None. Decker (since 2008) of SEI Investments since 2005. Vice (08/22/63) President of Old Mutual Capital from 2000 to 2005. -------------- ------------------- --------------------------------------- ------------------------ Michael Vice President Director of Client Service at SEI since None. Beattie (since 2009) 2004. (03/13/65) -------------- ------------------- --------------------------------------- ------------------------ Keri Rohn Privacy Officer Compliance Officer at SEI Investments None. (8/24/80) (since 2009) since 2003. -------------- ------------------- --------------------------------------- ------------------------ |
PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES
Purchases and redemptions may be made through the Transfer Agent on any day the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. Shares of the Fund are offered and redeemed on a continuous basis. Currently, the Trust is closed for business when the following holidays are observed: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
It is currently the Trust's policy to pay all redemptions in cash. The Trust retains the right, however, to alter this policy to provide for redemptions in whole or in part by a distribution in-kind of securities held by the Fund in lieu of cash. Shareholders may incur brokerage charges on the sale of any such securities so received in payment of redemptions. A Shareholder will at all times be entitled to aggregate cash redemptions from all funds of the Trust up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the Trust's net assets during any 90-day period. The Trust has obtained an exemptive order from the SEC that permits the Trust to make in-kind redemptions to those shareholders of the Trust that are affiliated with the Trust solely by their ownership of a certain percentage of the Trust's investment portfolios.
The Trust reserves the right to suspend the right of redemption and/or to postpone the date of payment upon redemption for any period on which trading on the NYSE is restricted, or during the existence of an emergency (as determined by the SEC by rule or regulation) as a result of which disposal or valuation of the Fund's securities is not reasonably practicable, or for such other periods as the SEC has by order permitted. The Trust also reserves the right to suspend sales of shares of the Fund for any period during which the NYSE, the Adviser, the Administrator, the Transfer Agent and/or the Custodian are not open for business.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
GENERAL POLICY. The Fund adheres to Section 2(a)(41), and Rule 2a-4 thereunder, of the 1940 Act with respect to the valuation of portfolio securities. In general, securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at current market value, and all other securities are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Board. In complying with the 1940 Act, the Trust relies on guidance provided by the SEC and by the SEC staff in various interpretive letters and other guidance.
EQUITY SECURITIES. Securities listed on a securities exchange, market or automated quotation system for which quotations are readily available (except for securities traded on NASDAQ), including securities traded over the counter, are valued at the last quoted sale price on the primary exchange or market (foreign or domestic) on which they are traded on valuation date (or at approximately 4:00 p.m. ET if a security's primary exchange is normally open at that time), or, if there is no such reported sale on the valuation date, at the most recent quoted bid price. For securities traded on NASDAQ, the NASDAQ Official Closing Price will be used. If such prices are not available or determined to not represent the fair value of the security as of the Fund's pricing time, the security will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
MONEY MARKET SECURITIES AND OTHER DEBT SECURITIES. If available, money market securities and other debt securities are priced based upon valuations provided by recognized independent, third-party pricing agents. Such values generally reflect the last reported sales price if the security is actively traded. The third-party pricing agents may also value debt securities by employing methodologies that utilize actual market transactions, broker-supplied valuations, or other methodologies designed to identify the market value for such securities. Such methodologies generally consider such factors as security prices, yields, maturities, call features, ratings and developments relating to specific securities in arriving at valuations. Money market securities and other debt securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less may be valued at their amortized cost, which approximates market value. If such prices are not available or determined to not represent the fair value of the security as of the Fund's pricing time, the security will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
USE OF THIRD-PARTY INDEPENDENT PRICING AGENTS. Pursuant to contracts with the Administrator, market prices for most securities held by the Fund are provided daily by third-party independent pricing agents that are approved by the Board of Trustees of the Trust. The valuations provided by third-party independent pricing agents are reviewed daily by the Administrator.
TAXES
The following is only a summary of certain additional federal income tax considerations generally affecting the Fund and its shareholders that is intended to supplement the discussion contained in the Fund's Prospectus. No attempt is made to present a detailed explanation of the tax treatment of the Fund or its shareholders, and the discussion here and in the Fund's Prospectus is not intended as a substitute for careful tax planning. Shareholders are urged to consult with their tax advisors with specific reference to their own tax situations, including their state, local, and foreign tax liabilities.
The following general discussion of certain federal income tax consequences is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and the regulations issued thereunder as in effect on the date of this SAI. New legislation, as well as administrative changes or court decisions, may significantly change the conclusions expressed herein, and may have a retroactive effect with respect to the transactions contemplated herein.
QUALIFICATIONS AS A RIC
The Fund intends to qualify and elects to be treated as a "regulated investment company" ("RIC") under Subchapter M of the Code. By following such a policy, the Fund expects to eliminate or reduce to a nominal amount the federal taxes to which it may be subject. The Board reserves the right not to maintain the qualification of the Fund as a regulated investment company if it determines such course of action to be beneficial to shareholders.
In order to be taxable as a RIC, the Fund must (i) meet certain requirements (discussed below); and (ii) distribute at least 90% of the Fund's net investment income for such year (including, for this purpose, the excess of net realized short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses) (the "Distribution Requirement"). One of several requirements for RIC qualification is that the Fund must receive at least 90% of the Fund's gross income each year from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income derived with respect to the Fund's investments in stock, securities, foreign currencies and net income from an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership (the "90% Test"). A second requirement for qualification as a RIC is that the Fund must diversify its holdings so that, at the end of each fiscal quarter of the Fund's taxable year: (a) at least 50% of the market value of the Fund's total assets is represented by cash and cash items, U.S. Government securities, securities of other RICs, and other securities, with these other securities limited, in respect to any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets or 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer; and (b) not more than 25% of the value of its total assets are invested in the securities (other than U.S. Government securities or securities of other RICs) of any one issuer or two or more issuers which the Fund controls and which are engaged in the same, similar, or related trades or businesses, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnership (the "Asset Test").
In the event of a failure by the Fund to qualify as a RIC, the Fund's distributions, to the extent such distributions are derived from the Fund's current or accumulated earnings and profits, would constitute dividends that would be taxable to the shareholders of the Fund as ordinary income and would be eligible for the dividends received deduction for corporate shareholders and as qualified dividend income for individual shareholders, subject to certain limitations. This treatment would also apply to any portion of the distributions that might have been treated in the shareholder's hands as long-term capital gains, as discussed below, had the Fund qualified as a RIC. In addition, the Fund could be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial taxes and interest, and make substantial distributions before requalifying as a RIC. As discussed above, the Board reserves the right not to maintain the qualification of the Fund as a RIC if it determines such course of action to be beneficial to shareholders. In addition, the Fund would be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial taxes and interest, and make substantial distributions before requalifying as a RIC.
FEDERAL EXCISE TAX
Notwithstanding the Distribution Requirement described above, which only requires the Fund to distribute at least 90% of its annual investment company income and does not require any minimum distribution of net capital gain, the Fund will be subject to a nondeductible 4% federal excise tax to the extent it fails to distribute, by the end of any calendar year, at least 98% of its ordinary income for that year and 98% of its capital gain net income (the excess of short- and long-term capital gain over short-and long-term capital loss) for the one-year period ending on October 31 of that year, plus certain other amounts. The Fund intends to make sufficient distributions to avoid liability for federal excise tax, but can make no assurances that such tax will be
completely eliminated. The Fund may in certain circumstances be required to liquidate Fund investments in order to make sufficient distributions to avoid federal excise tax liability at a time when the investment adviser might not otherwise have chosen to do so, and liquidation of investments in such circumstances may affect the ability of the Fund to satisfy the requirement for qualification as a RIC. If the Fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to the shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the Fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
SHAREHOLDER TREATMENT
The Fund's dividends that are paid to its corporate shareholders and are attributable to qualifying dividends it received from U.S. domestic corporations may be eligible, in the hands of such shareholders, for the corporate dividends received deduction, subject to certain holding period requirements and debt financing limitations. Generally, and subject to certain limitations (including certain holding period limitations), a dividend will be treated as a qualifying dividend if it has been received from a domestic corporation. All dividends (including the deducted portion) must be included in your alternative minimum taxable income calculation.
The Fund receives income generally in the form of dividends and interest on investments. This income, plus net short-term capital gains, if any, less expenses incurred in the operation of the Fund, constitutes the Fund's net investment income from which dividends may be paid to you. Any distributions by the Fund from such income will be taxable to you as ordinary income or at the lower capital gains rates that apply to individuals receiving qualified dividend income, whether you take them in cash or in additional shares.
Distributions by the Fund will be eligible for the reduced maximum tax rate to
individuals of 15% (lower rates apply to individuals in lower tax brackets) to
the extent that the Fund receives qualified dividend income on the securities
it holds and the Fund designates the distribution as qualified dividend income.
Qualified dividend income is, in general, dividend income from taxable domestic
corporations and certain foreign corporations (e.g., foreign corporations
incorporated in a possession of the United States or in certain countries with
a comprehensive tax treaty with the United States, or the stock of which is
readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States). A
dividend will not be treated as qualified dividend income to the extent that
(i) the shareholder has not held the shares on which the dividend was paid for
more than 60 days during the 121-day period that begins on the date that is 60
days before the date on which the shares become "ex-dividend" (which is the day
on which declared distributions (dividends or capital gains) are deducted from
the Fund's assets before it calculates the net asset value) with respect to
such dividend (and the Fund also satisfies those holding period requirements
with respect to the securities it holds that paid the dividends distributed to
the shareholder), (ii) the shareholder is under an obligation (whether pursuant
to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to
substantially similar or related property, or (iii) the shareholder elects to
treat such dividend as investment income under section 163(d)(4)(B) of the
Code. Dividends received by the Fund from an ETF taxable as a RIC may be
treated as qualified dividend income only to the extent the dividend
distributions are attributable to qualified dividend income received by such
RIC. Dividend income that the Fund receives from REITs, if any, generally will
not be treated as qualified dividend income. Absent further legislation, the
maximum 15% rate on qualified dividend income will not apply to dividends
received in taxable years beginning after December 31, 2010. Distributions by
the Fund of its net short-term capital gains will be taxable as ordinary
income. Capital gain distributions consisting of the Fund's net capital gains
will be taxable as long-term capital gains regardless of how long the Fund's
shares have been held for by the shareholder. The Fund will report annually to
its shareholders the amount of the Fund's distributions that qualify for the
reduced tax rates on qualified dividend income and capital gain distributions.
Any gain or loss recognized on a sale, exchange, or redemption of shares of the Fund by a shareholder who is not a dealer in securities will generally, for individual shareholders, be treated as a long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than twelve months and otherwise will be treated as a short-term capital gain or loss. However, if shares on which a shareholder has received a net capital gain distribution are subsequently sold, exchanged, or redeemed and such shares have been held for six months or less, any loss recognized will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of the net capital gain distribution. In addition, the loss realized on a sale or other disposition of shares will be disallowed to the extent a shareholder repurchases (or enters into a contract to or option to repurchase) shares within a period of 61 days (beginning 30
days before and ending 30 days after the disposition of the shares). This loss disallowance rule will apply to shares received through the reinvestment of dividends during the 61-day period.
INVESTMENT IN CERTAIN ETFS. The Fund intends to invest in ETFs that are taxable as RICs under the Code. Accordingly, the income the Fund receives from such ETFs should satisfy the qualifying income test with respect to the Fund's qualification as a RIC. However, the Fund may also invest in one or more ETFs that are not taxable as RICs under the Code and that may generate non-qualifying income. The Adviser anticipates monitoring its investments in such ETFs very closely to keep the Fund's non-qualifying income within the acceptable limits, but it is possible that if such income is more than anticipated that it could cause the Fund to inadvertently fail the 90% Test thereby causing the fund to fail to qualify as a RIC.
FOREIGN TAXES. If more than 50% of the value of the Fund's total assets at the close of its taxable year consists of stocks or securities of foreign corporations, the Fund will be eligible to, and will, file an election with the Internal Revenue Service that may enable shareholders, in effect, to receive either the benefit of a foreign tax credit or a deduction with respect to any foreign and U.S. possessions income taxes paid by the Fund, subject to certain limitations. Pursuant to the election, the Fund will treat those taxes as dividends paid to its shareholders. Each such shareholder will be required to include a proportionate share of those taxes in gross income as income received from a foreign source and must treat the amount so included as if the shareholder had paid the foreign tax directly. The shareholder may then either deduct the taxes deemed paid by him or her in computing his or her taxable income or, alternatively, use the foregoing information in calculating any foreign tax credit they may be entitled to use against the shareholders' federal income tax. If the Fund makes the election, the Fund will report annually to its shareholders the respective amounts per share of the Fund's income from sources within, and taxes paid to, foreign countries and U.S. possessions.
STATE TAXES. Depending upon state and local law, distributions by the Fund to its shareholders and the ownership of such shares may be subject to state and local taxes. Rules of state and local taxation of dividend and capital gains distributions from RICs often differ from rules for federal income taxation described above. The Fund is not liable for any income or franchise tax in Massachusetts if it qualifies as a RIC for federal income tax purposes. Shareholders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding state and local taxes applicable to an investment in the Fund.
Many states grant tax-free status to dividends paid to you from interest earned on direct obligations of the U.S. government, subject in some states to minimum investment requirements that must be met by the Fund. Investment in Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae") or Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") securities, banker's acceptances, commercial paper, and repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government securities do not generally qualify for such tax-free treatment. The rules on exclusion of this income are different for corporate shareholders.
TAX TREATMENT OF COMPLEX SECURITIES. The Fund may invest in complex securities. These investments may be subject to numerous special and complex tax rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by the Fund are treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the recognition of income to the Fund and/or defer the Fund's ability to recognize losses, and, in limited cases, subject the Fund to U.S. federal income tax on income from certain of its foreign securities. In turn, these rules may affect the amount, timing or character of the income distributed to you by the Fund.
Most foreign exchange gains realized on the sale of debt securities are treated as ordinary income by the Fund. Similarly, foreign exchange losses realized by the Fund on the sale of debt securities are generally treated as ordinary losses by the Fund. These gains when distributed will be taxable to you as ordinary dividends, and any losses will reduce the Fund's ordinary income otherwise available for distribution to you. This treatment could increase or reduce the Fund's ordinary income distributions to you, and may cause some or all of the Fund's previously distributed income to be classified as a return of capital.
With respect to investments in STRIPS, TRs, and other zero coupon securities which are sold at original issue discount and thus do not make periodic cash interest payments, the Fund will be required to include as part of its current income the imputed interest on such obligations even though the Fund has not received any interest payments on such obligations during that period. Because the Fund distributes all of its net investment income to its shareholders, the Fund may have to sell Fund securities to distribute such imputed income which may occur at a time when the Adviser would not have chosen to sell such securities and which may result in taxable gain or loss.
The Fund is required for federal income tax purposes to mark-to-market and recognize as income for each taxable year its net unrealized gains and losses on certain futures contracts as of the end of the year as well as those actually realized during the year. Options on "broad based" securities indices are classified as "non-equity options" under the Code. Gains and losses resulting from the expiration, exercise, or closing of such non-equity options, as well as gains and losses resulting from futures contract transactions, will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss to the extent of 60% thereof and short-term capital gain or loss to the extent of 40% thereof (hereinafter, "blended gain or loss"). In addition, any non-equity option and futures contract held by the Fund on the last day of a fiscal year will be treated as sold for market value on that date, and gain or loss recognized as a result of such deemed sale will be blended gain or loss.
If the Fund owns shares in certain foreign investment entities, referred to as "passive foreign investment companies" or "PFIC," the Fund will be subject to one of the following special tax regimes: (i) the Fund will be liable for federal income tax, and an additional interest charge, on a portion of any "excess distribution" from such foreign entity or any gain from the disposition of such shares, even if the entire distribution or gain is paid out by the Fund as a dividend to its shareholders; (ii) if the Fund is able and elect to treat a PFIC as a "qualifying electing fund" or "QEF," the Fund would be required each year to include in income, and distribute to shareholders in accordance with the distribution requirements set forth above, the Funds' pro rata share of the ordinary earnings and net capital gains of the PFIC, whether or not such earnings or gains are distributed to the Fund; or (iii) the Fund may be entitled to mark-to-market annually shares of the PFIC, and in such event would be required to distribute to shareholders any such mark-to-market gains in accordance with the distribution requirements set forth above.
Certain tax-exempt shareholders, including qualified pension plans, individual retirement accounts, salary deferral arrangements, 401(k)s, and other tax-exempt entities, generally are exempt from federal income taxation except with respect to their unrelated business taxable income ("UBTI"). Under current law, the Fund generally serves to block UBTI from being realized by its tax-exempt shareholders. However, notwithstanding the foregoing, tax-exempt shareholders could realize UBTI by virtue of an investment in the Fund where, for example, (i) the Fund invests in REITs that hold residual interests in real estate mortgage investment conduits ("REMICs") or (ii) shares in the Fund constitute debt-financed property in the hands of the tax-exempt shareholder within the meaning of section 514(b) of the Code, a tax-exempt shareholder could realize UBTI by virtue of its investment in the Fund. Charitable remainder trusts are subject to special rules and should consult their tax advisors. There are no restrictions preventing the Fund from holding investments in REITs that hold residual interests in REMICs, and the Fund may do so. The Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS") has issued recent guidance with respect to these issues and prospective shareholders, especially charitable remainder trusts, are strongly encouraged to consult with their tax advisors regarding these issues.
Under U.S. Treasury regulations, if a shareholder recognizes a loss of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate shareholder, the shareholder must file with the IRS a disclosure statement on Form 8886. Direct shareholders of portfolio securities are in many cases excepted from this reporting requirement, but under current guidance, shareholders of a RIC such as the Fund are not excepted. Future guidance may extend the current exception from this reporting requirement to shareholders of most or all RICs. The fact that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of whether the taxpayer's treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should consult their tax advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual circumstances.
BACK-UP WITHHOLDING. In certain cases, the Fund will be required to withhold at the applicable withholding rate, and remit to the United States Treasury, such withheld amounts on any distributions paid to a shareholder who (1) has failed to provide a correct taxpayer identification number, (2) is subject to backup withholding by the Internal Revenue Service, (3) has not certified to the Fund that such shareholder is not subject to backup withholding, or (4) has not certified that such shareholder is a U.S. person or U.S. resident alien.
FOREIGN SHAREHOLDERS. Foreign shareholders (i.e., nonresident alien individuals and foreign corporations, partnerships, trusts and estates) are generally subject to U.S. withholding tax at the rate of 30% (or a lower tax treaty rate) on distributions derived from net investment income and short-term capital gains; provided, however, that for the Fund's taxable year beginning after December 31, 2004 and not beginning after December 31, 2009, interest related dividends and short-term capital gain dividends generally will not be subject to U.S. withholding taxes. Distributions to foreign shareholders of such short-term capital gain dividends, of long-term capital gains and any gains from the sale or other disposition of shares of the Fund generally are not subject to U.S. taxation, unless the recipient is an individual who either (1) meets the Code's definition of "resident alien" or (2)
is physically present in the U.S. for 183 days or more per year. Different tax consequences may result if the foreign shareholder is engaged in a trade or business within the United States. In addition, the tax consequences to a foreign shareholder entitled to claim the benefits of a tax treaty may be different than those described above.
Under recent legislation, the Code provides a look-through rule for distributions of so-called FIRPTA gain by a Fund if all of the following requirements are met: (i) the Fund is classified as a "qualified investment entity" (a "qualified investment entity" includes entities taxable as RICs if, in general, more than 50% of the RIC's assets consists of interests in REITs and U.S. real property holding corporations), and (ii) you are a foreign shareholder that owns more than 5% of a class of Fund shares at any time during the one-year period ending on the date of the distribution. If these conditions are met, distributions by the Fund are treated as gain from the disposition of a U.S. real property interest (USRPI), causing the distribution to be subject to U.S. withholding tax at a rate of 35%, and requiring foreign shareholders to file a nonresident U.S. income tax return. Also, such gain may be subject to a 30% branch profits tax in the hands of a foreign shareholder that is a corporation. If these rules do not apply to a distribution, such distribution in the hands of a foreign shareholder is subject to the same treatment referenced in the preceding paragraph.
Foreign shareholders in the Fund may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax and are encouraged to consult their tax advisors prior to investing in the Fund.
Shareholders are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the application of the provisions of tax law described in this SAI in light of the particular tax situations of the shareholders and regarding specific questions as to federal, state, or local taxes.
FUND TRANSACTIONS
BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS. Generally, equity securities, both listed and over-the-counter, are bought and sold through brokerage transactions for which commissions are payable. Purchases from underwriters will include the underwriting commission or concession, and purchases from dealers serving as market makers will include a dealer's mark-up or reflect a dealer's mark-down. Money market securities and other debt securities are usually bought and sold directly from the issuer or an underwriter or market maker for the securities. Generally, the Fund will not pay brokerage commissions for such purchases. When a debt security is bought from an underwriter, the purchase price will usually include an underwriting commission or concession. The purchase price for securities bought from dealers serving as market makers will similarly include the dealer's mark up or reflect a dealer's mark down. When the Fund executes transactions in the over-the-counter market, it will generally deal with primary market makers unless prices that are more favorable are otherwise obtainable.
In addition, the Adviser may place a combined order for two or more accounts it manages, including the Fund, engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security if, in its judgment, joint execution is in the best interest of each participant and will result in best price and execution. Transactions involving commingled orders are allocated in a manner deemed equitable to each account or fund. Although it is recognized that, in some cases, the joint execution of orders could adversely affect the price or volume of the security that a particular account or the Fund may obtain, it is the opinion of the Adviser that the advantages of combined orders outweigh the possible disadvantages of separate transactions. Nonetheless, the Adviser believes that the ability of the Fund to participate in higher volume transactions will generally be beneficial to the Fund.
For the fiscal period from February 3, 2009 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2009 and the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Fund paid the following commissions on brokerage transactions directed to brokers pursuant to an agreement or understanding whereby the broker provides research or other brokerage services to the Adviser.
TOTAL DOLLAR AMOUNT OF BROKERAGE TOTAL DOLLAR AMOUNT OF TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING COMMISSIONS FOR RESEARCH SERVICES BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS FOR RESEARCH SERVICES ---- --------------------------------- --------------------------------------------- 2009 $XX $XX ---- --------------------------------- --------------------------------------------- 2010 $XX $XX ---- --------------------------------- --------------------------------------------- |
BROKERAGE SELECTION. The Trust does not expect to use one particular broker or dealer, and when one or more brokers is believed capable of providing the best combination of price and execution, the Fund's Adviser may select a broker based upon brokerage or research services provided to the Adviser. The Adviser may pay a higher commission than otherwise obtainable
from other brokers in return for such services only if a good faith determination is made that the commission is reasonable in relation to the services provided.
Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act permits the Adviser, under certain circumstances, to cause the Fund to pay a broker or dealer a commission for effecting a transaction in excess of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting the transaction in recognition of the value of brokerage and research services provided by the broker or dealer. In addition to agency transactions, the Adviser may receive brokerage and research services in connection with certain riskless principal transactions, in accordance with applicable SEC guidance. Brokerage and research services include: (1) furnishing advice as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities, and the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of securities; (2) furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy, and the performance of accounts; and (3) effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance, settlement, and custody). In the case of research services, the Adviser believes that access to independent investment research is beneficial to their investment decision-making processes and, therefore, to the Fund.
To the extent research services may be a factor in selecting brokers, such services may be in written form or through direct contact with individuals and may include information as to particular companies and securities as well as market, economic, or institutional areas and information which assists in the valuation and pricing of investments. Examples of research-oriented services for which the Adviser might utilize Fund commissions include research reports and other information on the economy, industries, sectors, groups of securities, individual companies, statistical information, political developments, technical market action, pricing and appraisal services, credit analysis, risk measurement analysis, performance and other analysis. The Adviser may use research services furnished by brokers in servicing all client accounts and not all services may necessarily be used in connection with the account that paid commissions to the broker providing such services. Information so received by the Adviser will be in addition to and not in lieu of the services required to be performed by the Fund's Adviser under the Advisory Agreement. Any advisory or other fees paid to the Adviser are not reduced as a result of the receipt of research services.
In some cases the Adviser may receive a service from a broker that has both a "research" and a "non-research" use. When this occurs, the Adviser makes a good faith allocation, under all the circumstances, between the research and non-research uses of the service. The percentage of the service that is used for research purposes may be paid for with client commissions, while the Adviser will use its own funds to pay for the percentage of the service that is used for non-research purposes. In making this good faith allocation, the Adviser faces a potential conflict of interest, but the Adviser believes that its allocation procedures are reasonably designed to ensure that it appropriately allocates the anticipated use of such services to their research and non-research uses.
From time to time, the Fund may purchase new issues of securities for clients in a fixed price offering. In these situations, the seller may be a member of the selling group that will, in addition to selling securities, provide the Adviser with research services. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") has adopted rules expressly permitting these types of arrangements under certain circumstances. Generally, the seller will provide research "credits" in these situations at a rate that is higher than that which is available for typical secondary market transactions. These arrangements may not fall within the safe harbor of Section 28(e).
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Fund paid $XX on brokerage transactions directed to brokers pursuant to an agreement or understanding whereby the broker provides research or other brokerage services to the Adviser.
BROKERAGE WITH FUND AFFILIATES. The Fund may execute brokerage or other agency transactions through registered broker-dealer affiliates of either the Fund, the Adviser or the Distributor for a commission in conformity with the 1940 Act, the 1934 Act and rules promulgated by the SEC. These rules further require that commissions paid to the affiliate by the Fund for exchange transactions not exceed "usual and customary" brokerage commissions. The rules define "usual and customary" commissions to include amounts which are "reasonable and fair compared to the commission, fee or other remuneration received or to be received by other brokers in connection with comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold on a securities exchange during a comparable period of time." The Trustees, including those who are not "interested persons" of the Fund, have adopted procedures for evaluating the reasonableness of commissions paid to affiliates and review these procedures periodically.
For the fiscal period from February 3, 2009 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2009 and the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Fund did not pay any aggregate brokerage commissions on fund transactions effected by affiliated brokers.
SECURITIES OF "REGULAR BROKER-DEALERS." The Fund is required to identify any securities of its "regular brokers and dealers" (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) which the Fund may hold at the close of its most recent fiscal year. As of July 31, 2010, the Fund did not hold any securities of its regular broker dealers.
PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The Board of Trustees has approved a policy and procedures that govern the timing and circumstances regarding the disclosure of Fund portfolio holdings information to shareholders and third parties. These policies and procedures are designed to ensure that disclosure of information regarding the Fund's portfolio securities is in the best interests of Fund shareholders, and include procedures to address conflicts between the interests of the Fund's shareholders, on the one hand, and those of the Fund's Adviser, principal underwriter or any affiliated person of the Fund, its Adviser, or its principal underwriter, on the other. Pursuant to such procedures, the Board has authorized the Adviser's Chief Compliance Officer (the "Authorized Person") to authorize the release of the Fund's portfolio holdings, as necessary, in conformity with the foregoing principles. The Authorized Person reports quarterly to the Board regarding the implementation of such policies and procedures.
Pursuant to applicable law, the Fund is required to disclose its complete portfolio holdings quarterly, within 60 days of the end of each fiscal quarter (currently, each July 31, October 31, January 31, and April 30). The Fund discloses a complete schedule of investments in each Semi-Annual Report and Annual Report to Fund shareholders or, following the first and third fiscal quarters, in quarterly holdings reports filed with the SEC on Form N-Q. Semi-Annual and Annual Reports are distributed to Fund shareholders. Quarterly holdings reports filed with the SEC on Form N-Q are not distributed to Fund shareholders, but are available, free of charge, on the EDGAR database on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
The Fund's policies and procedures provide that the Authorized Person, may authorize disclosure of portfolio holdings information to third parties at differing times and/or with different lag times then the information posted to the internet provided that the recipient is, either by contractual agreement or otherwise by law, (i) required to maintain the confidentiality of the information and (ii) prohibited from using the information to facilitate or assist in any securities transactions or investment program. No compensation or other consideration is paid to or received by any party in connection with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information, including the Fund, Adviser and its affiliates or recipient of the Fund's portfolio holdings information. The Fund will review a third party's request for portfolio holdings information to determine whether the third party has legitimate business objectives in requesting such information.
The Trust's policies and procedures prohibit any compensation or other consideration from being paid to or received by any party in connection with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information, including the Fund, Adviser and its affiliates or recipient of the Fund's portfolio holdings information.
In addition, the Fund's service providers, such as the Custodian, Administrator and transfer agent, may receive portfolio holdings information as frequently as daily in connection with their services to the Fund. In addition to any contractual provisions relating to confidentiality of information that may be included in the service providers contract with the Trust, these arrangements impose obligations on the Fund's service providers that would prohibit them from disclosing or trading on the Fund's non-public information. Financial printers and pricing information vendors may receive portfolio holdings information, as necessary, in connection with their services to the Fund.
DESCRIPTION OF SHARES
The Declaration of Trust authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of funds and shares of each fund, each of which represents an equal proportionate interest in the portfolio with each other share. Shares are entitled upon liquidation to a pro rata share in the net assets of the fund. Shareholders have no preemptive rights. The Declaration of Trust provides that the Trustees of the Trust may create additional series or classes of shares. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any additional funds and all assets in which such consideration is invested would belong to that fund and would be subject to the
liabilities related thereto. Share certificates representing shares will not be issued. The Fund's shares, when issued, are fully paid and non-assessable.
SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY
The Trust is an entity of the type commonly known as a "Massachusetts business trust." Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of such a trust could, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the trust. Even if, however, the Trust were held to be a partnership, the possibility of the shareholders incurring financial loss for that reason appears remote because the Trust's Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for obligations of the Trust and requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each agreement, obligation or instrument entered into or executed by or on behalf of the Trust or the Trustees, and because the Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification out of the Trust property for any shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust.
LIMITATION OF TRUSTEES' LIABILITY
The Declaration of Trust provides that a Trustee shall be liable only for his or her own willful defaults and, if reasonable care has been exercised in the selection of officers, agents, employees or investment advisers, shall not be liable for any neglect or wrongdoing of any such person. The Declaration of Trust also provides that the Trust will indemnify its Trustees and officers against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection with actual or threatened litigation in which they may be involved because of their offices with the Trust unless it is determined in the manner provided in the Declaration of Trust that they have not acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that their actions were in the best interests of the Trust. However, nothing in the Declaration of Trust shall protect or indemnify a Trustee against any liability for his or her willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his or her duties. Nothing contained in this section attempts to disclaim a Trustee's individual liability in any manner inconsistent with the federal securities laws.
PROXY VOTING
The Board of Trustees of the Trust has delegated responsibility for decisions regarding proxy voting for securities held by the Fund to the Adviser. The Adviser will vote such proxies in accordance with its proxy policies and procedures, which are included in Appendix B to this SAI. The Board of Trustees will periodically review the Fund's proxy voting record.
The Trust is required to disclose annually the Fund's complete proxy voting record on Form N-PX. Beginning August 31, 2009, the Fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12 month period ended June 30th will be available upon request by calling 1-877-333-0246 or by writing to the Fund at Clear River Fund, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009. The Fund's Form N-PX will also be available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
CODES OF ETHICS
The Board of Trustees, on behalf of the Trust has adopted a Code of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. In addition, the Adviser, the Distributor and the Administrator have adopted Codes of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1. These Codes of Ethics apply to the personal investing activities of trustees, officers and certain employees ("Access Persons"). Rule 17j-1 and the Codes of Ethics are designed to prevent unlawful practices in connection with the purchase or sale of securities by Access Persons. Under each Code of Ethics, Access Persons are permitted to engage in personal securities transactions, but are required to report their personal securities transactions for monitoring purposes. In addition, certain Access Persons are required to obtain approval before investing in initial public offerings or private placements or are prohibited from making such investments. Copies of these Codes of Ethics are on file with the SEC, and are available to the public.
5% AND 25% SHAREHOLDERS
As of November 1, 2010, there are no shareholders of record who owned 5% or more of the Fund to report.
APPENDIX A -- DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
The following descriptions are summaries of published ratings.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
A-1 This is the highest category by Standard and Poor's (S&P) and indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment is strong. Those issues determined to possess extremely strong safety characteristics are denoted with a plus sign (+) designation. A-2 Capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is satisfactory and the obligation is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. PRIME-1 Issues rated Prime-1 (or supporting institutions) by Moody's have a superior ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. Prime-1 repayment ability will often be evidenced by many of the following characteristics: - Leading market positions in well-established industries. - High rates of return on funds employed. - Conservative capitalization structure with moderate reliance on debt \ and ample asset protection. - Broad margins in earnings coverage of fixed financial charges and high internal cash generation. - Well-established access to a range of financial markets and assured sources of alternate liquidity. |
The rating F1 (Highest Credit Quality) is the highest commercial rating assigned by Fitch Inc. Paper rated F1 is regarded as having the strongest capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. The rating F2 (Good Credit Quality) is the second highest commercial paper rating assigned by Fitch Inc., which reflects a satisfactory capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, but the margin of safety is not as great as in the case of the higher ratings.
The rating TBW-1 by Thomson BankWatch ("Thomson") indicates a very high likelihood that principal and interest will be paid on a timely basis.
DESCRIPTION OF MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
Moody's highest rating for state and municipal and other short-term notes is MIG-1 and VMIG-l. Short-term municipal securities rated MIG-1 or VMIG-1 are of the best quality. They have strong protection from established cash flows, superior liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing or both. Short-term municipal securities rated MIG-2 or VMIG-2 are of high quality. Margins of protection are ample although not so large as in the MIG-I/VMIG-2 group.
An S&P note rating reflects the liquidity concerns and market access risks unique to notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes maturing beyond three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. The following criteria will be used in making that assessment:
- Amortization Schedule - the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note, and
- Source of Payment - the more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note.
S&P note rating symbols are as follows:
SP-1 Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Those issues determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay a debt service is given a plus (+) designation. SP-2 Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the votes. |
DESCRIPTION OF CORPORATE BOND RATINGS
S&P
Bonds rated AAA have the highest rating S&P assigns to a debt obligation. Such a rating indicates an extremely strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Bonds rated AA also qualify as high-quality debt obligations. Capacity to pay principal and interest is very strong, and in the majority of instances they differ from AAA issues only in small degree. Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for debt in this category than in higher rated categories. Debt rated BB and B is regarded as having predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions. Debt rated BB has less near-term vulnerability to default than other speculative grade debt. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions that could lead to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BBB- rating. Debt rate B has greater vulnerability to default but presently has the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions would likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay principal. The B rating category also is used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
MOODY'S
Bonds that are rated Aaa by Moody's are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a large, or an exceptionally stable, margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues. Bonds rated Aa by Moody's are judged by Moody's to be of high quality by all standards. Together with bonds rated Aaa, they comprise what are generally known as high-grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present that make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than the Aaa securities. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper-medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium-grade obligations (i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured). Interest payments and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well-assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Moody's bond ratings, where specified, are applied to financial contracts, senior bank obligations and insurance company senior policyholder and claims obligations with an original maturity in excess of one-year. Obligations relying upon support mechanisms such as letters-of-credit and bonds of indemnity are excluded unless explicitly rated.
Obligations of a branch of a bank are considered to be domiciled in the country in which the branch is located. Unless noted as an exception, Moody's rating on a bank's ability to repay senior obligations extends only to branches located in countries which carry a Moody's sovereign rating. Such branch obligations are rated at the lower of the bank's rating or Moody's sovereign rating for the bank deposits for the country in which the branch is located.
When the currency in which an obligation is denominated is not the same as the currency of the country in which the obligation is domiciled, Moody's ratings do not incorporate an opinion as to whether payment of the obligation will be affected by the actions of the government controlling the currency of denomination. In addition, risk associated with bilateral conflicts between an investor's home country and either the issuer's home country or the country where an issuer branch is located are not incorporated into Moody's ratings.
Moody's makes no representation that rated bank obligations or insurance company obligations are exempt from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 or issued in conformity with any other applicable law or regulation. Nor does Moody's represent that any specific bank or insurance company obligation is legally enforceable or is a valid senior obligation of a rated issuer.
Moody's ratings are opinions, not recommendations to buy or sell, and their accuracy is not guaranteed. A rating should be weighed solely as one factor in an investment decision and you should make your own study and evaluation of any issuer whose securities or debt obligations you consider buying or selling.
FITCH INC. ("FITCH")
Bonds rated AAA by Fitch are judged by Fitch to be strictly high grade, broadly marketable, suitable for investment by trustees and fiduciary institutions liable to but slight market fluctuation other than through changes in the money rate. The prime feature of an AAA bond is a showing of earnings several times or many times interest requirements, with such stability of applicable earnings that safety is beyond reasonable question whatever changes occur in conditions. Bonds rated AA by Fitch are judged by Fitch to be of safety virtually beyond question and are readily salable, whose merits are not unlike those of the AAA class, but whose margin of safety is less strikingly broad. The issue may be the obligation of a small company, strongly secured but influenced as to rating by the lesser financial power of the enterprise and more local type market.
Bonds rated A are considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
Bonds rated BBB are considered to be investment grade and of satisfactory credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances, however, are more likely to have adverse impact on these bonds, and therefore impair timelypayment. The likelihood that the ratings of these bonds will fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with higher ratings. Bonds rated BB are considered speculative.
The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal may be affected over time by adverse economic changes. However, business and financial alternatives can be identified which could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt service requirements. Bonds rated B are considered highly speculative. While bonds in this class are currently meeting debt service requirements, the probability of continued timely payment of principal and interest reflects the obligor's limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic activity throughout the life of the issue.
THOMSON
Bonds rated AAA by Thomson BankWatch indicate that the ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis is extremely high. Bonds rated AA indicate a very strong ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis, with limited incremental risk compared to issues rated in the highest category. Bonds rated A indicate the ability to repay principal and interest is strong. Issues rated A could be more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings.
Bonds rated BBB (the lowest investment-grade category) indicate an acceptable capacity to repay principal and interest. Issues rated "BBB" are, however, more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings.
While not investment grade, the BB rating suggests that the likelihood of default is considerably less than for lower-rated issues. However, there are significant uncertainties that could affect the ability to adequately service debt obligations. Issues rated B show a higher degree of uncertainty and therefore greater likelihood of default than higher-rated issues. Adverse developments could negatively affect the payment of interest and principal on a timely basis.
APPENDIX B -- PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURE
LOWRY HILL INVESTMENT ADVISORS
PROXY VOTING POLICY AND PROCEDURES
When voting proxies on behalf of our clients, Lowry Hill Investment Advisors (LOWRY HILL) assumes a fiduciary responsibility to vote in our clients' best interests. In addition, LOWRY HILL acknowledges its responsibility as a fiduciary to vote proxies prudently and solely in the best interest of plan participants and beneficiaries. So that it may fulfill these fiduciary responsibilities to clients, LOWRY HILL, in conjunction with its affiliate Wells Fargo Bank N.A., has adopted and implemented these written policies and procedures reasonably designed to ensure that it votes proxies in the best interest of clients.
PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES
LOWRY HILL acknowledges it has a duty of care to its clients that requires it to monitor corporate events and vote client proxies. To assist in this effort, LOWRY HILL, in conjunction with its affiliate Wells Fargo Bank N.A., has retained Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) to vote its proxies. ISS provides proxy-voting analysis and votes proxies in accordance with predetermined guidelines. Relying on ISS to vote proxies ensures that LOWRY HILL votes in the best interest of its clients and insulates LOWRY HILL's voting decisions from any potential conflicts of interest.
There may be occasions when LOWRY HILL, in conjunction with its affiliate Wells Fargo Bank N.A., determines that not voting a proxy may be in the best interests of clients; for example, when the cost of voting the proxy exceeds the expected benefit to the client. There may also be times when clients have instructed LOWRY HILL not to vote proxies or direct LOWRY HILL to vote proxies in a certain manner. LOWRY HILL will maintain written instructions from clients with respect to directing proxy votes.
LOWRY HILL also reserves the right to override ISS vote recommendations under certain circumstances. Lowry Hill will only do so if they believe that changing the vote is in the best interest of clients. All overrides will be approved by an Executive Officer of Lowry Hill and will be documented with the reasons for voting against the ISS recommendation.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
Occasions may arise during the voting process in which the best interest of clients conflicts with LOWRY HILL's or its affiliate Wells Fargo Bank N.A.'s interests. In these situations ISS will continue to follow the same predetermined guidelines as formally agreed upon between LOWRY HILL, in conjunction with its affiliate Wells Fargo Bank N.A., and ISS before such conflict of interest existed. Conflicts of interest generally include (i) business relationships where LOWRY HILL or Wells Fargo Bank N.A. has a substantial business relationship with, or is actively soliciting business from, a company soliciting proxies, or (ii) personal or family relationships whereby an employee of LOWRY HILL or Wells Fargo Bank N.A. has a family member or other personal relationship that is affiliated with a company soliciting proxies, such as a spouse who serves as a director of a public company. A conflict could also exist if a substantial business relationship exists with a proponent or opponent of a particular initiative.
If LOWRY HILL or Wells Fargo Bank N.A. learns that a conflict of interest exists, the Proxy Coordinator will prepare a report to the Compliance Committee that identifies (i) the details of the conflict of interest, (ii) whether or not the conflict is material, and (iii) procedures to ensure that LOWRY HILL makes proxy voting decisions based on the best interests of clients. If LOWRY HILL determines that a material conflict exists, it will defer to ISS to vote the proxy in accordance with the predetermined voting policy.
VOTING POLICIES
LOWRY HILL has adopted the proxy voting policies developed by ISS. The policies have been developed based on ISS's independent, objective analysis of leading corporate governance practices and their support of long-term shareholder value.
LOWRY HILL, in conjunction with its affiliate Wells Fargo Bank N.A., may change these policies from time to time without providing notice of changes to clients.
ISS proxy voting policies include:
1. Management Proposals: Proposals introduced by company management will generally be voted in accordance with management's recommendations on the following types of routine management proposals:
o Election of Directors (uncontested)
o Approval of Independent Auditors
o Executive Compensation Plans
o Routine Corporate Structure, Share Issuance, Allocations of Income,
Scrip Dividend Proposals, Increases in Capital or Par Value, and Share
Repurchase Plans.
2. Shareholder Proposals: At times shareholders will submit proposals that generally seek to change some aspect of a company's corporate governance structure or its business operations. Proxies will generally be voted against proposals motivated by political, ethical or social concerns. Proposals will be examine solely from an economic perspective. Proxies will generally be voted with management in opposition to shareholder resolutions which could negatively impact the company's ability to conduct business, and voted in support of the shareholder initiatives concerning the maximization of shareholder value.
3. Other (Non-Routine) Proposals: Non-routine proposals, introduced by company management or shareholders, are examined on a case-by-case basis. These are often more complex structural changes to a company such as a reorganization or merger, in which a variety of issues are considered including the benefits to shareholders' existing and future earnings, preservation of shareholder value, financial terms of the transaction and the strategic rationale for the proposal. The following are examples of proposals that are voted on a case-by-case basis:
o Reorganizations/Restructurings
o Amendments to the Articles of Association
o Non-Executive Director Compensation Proposals (cash and share based
components)
o Increasing Borrowing Powers
o Debt Issuance Requests
VOTING PROCESS
LOWRY HILL has appointed the Compliance Officer to act as Proxy Coordinator. The Proxy Coordinator, overseen by Operations Management, is responsible for coordinating new account set-up and account changes, acting as liaison with client's custodian banks, making sure that proxies LOWRY HILL is responsible to vote are forwarded to ISS, seeing that ISS is voting assigned client accounts, maintaining appropriate records, monitoring corporate actions and generally overseeing the relationship with ISS.
After ISS is notified by the custodian of a proxy that requires voting and/or after ISS cross references their database with a routine download of LOWRY HILL holdings and determines a proxy requires voting, ISS will review the proxy and make a voting proposal based on the recommendations provided by their research group. Any electronic proxy votes will be communicated to the proxy solicitor by ISS's Global Proxy Distribution Service and ADP's Proxy Edge Distribution Service, while non-electronic ballots, or paper ballots, will be faxed, telephoned or sent via Internet. ISS assumes responsibility for the proxies to be transmitted for voting in a timely fashion and maintains a record of the vote, which is provided to LOWRY HILL on a quarterly basis. LOWRY HILL will make votes available to all separately managed accountholders upon request and will communicate votes to all mutual fund clients no less frequently than once a year.
PROXY VOTING RECORD
Lowry Hill's Proxy Coordinator will maintain a record containing the following information regarding the voting of proxies: (i) the name of the issuer, (ii) the exchange ticker symbol, (iii) the CUSIP number, (iv) the shareholder meeting date, (v) a brief description of the matter brought to vote; (vi) whether the proposal was submitted by management or a shareholder, (vii) how LOWRY HILL voted the proxy (for, against, abstained) and (viii) whether the proxy was voted for or against management.
RECORDKEEPING
Pursuant to Rule 204-2 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, LOWRY HILL will maintain the following records for five years in an easily accessible place, the first two years in its office:
o Lowry Hill's proxy voting policies and procedures
o Proxy statements received regarding client securities (proxy
statements filed via EDGAR will not be separately maintained by LOWRY
HILL)
o Records of votes cast on behalf of clients
o Records of written client requests for voting information
o Records of written responses from LOWRY HILL to both written and
verbal client requests
o Any other documents prepared that were material to LOWRY HILL's
decision to vote a proxy or that memorialized the basis for the
decision.
OBTAINING A VOTING PROXY REPORT
Clients may request a copy of these policies and procedures and/or a report on how their individual securities were voted by calling LOWRY HILL at 1-888-648-8157. The report will be provided free of charge.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
FROST CORE GROWTH EQUITY FUND
FROST DIVIDEND VALUE EQUITY FUND
FROST STRATEGIC BALANCED FUND
FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND
FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND
FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
FROST LOW DURATION BOND FUND
FROST TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND
FROST MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
FROST LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND
FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND
FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND
EACH, A SERIES OF THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
FROST INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") is not a prospectus. This SAI is intended to provide additional information regarding the activities and operations of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II (the "Trust") and the Frost Core Growth Equity Fund, the Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund, the Frost Strategic Balanced Fund, the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund, the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund, the Frost International Equity Fund, the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, the Frost Total Return Bond Fund, the Frost Municipal Bond Fund, the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund, the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund, and the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund (each, a "Fund" and collectively, the "Funds"). This SAI is incorporated by reference into and should be read in conjunction with the Prospectuses dated November 29, 2010. Capitalized terms not defined herein are defined in the Prospectuses. The Funds' financial statements and financial highlights including notes thereto, and the report of Ernst & Young LLP for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010 are contained in the 2010 Annual Report to Shareholders and are incorporated by reference into and are deemed to be part of this SAI. A copy of the Funds' 2010 Annual Report to Shareholders accompanies the delivery of this SAI. A Prospectus of Annual Report may be obtained by writing the Trust at P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 or calling toll-free 1-877-71-FROST (1-877-713-7678).
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THE TRUST .................................................................. X ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES ................................................................. X DESCRIPTION OF PERMITTED INVESTMENTS ....................................... XX INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS ..................................................... XX THE ADVISER AND SUB-ADVISERS ............................................... XX PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ......................................................... XX THE ADMINISTRATOR .......................................................... XX THE DISTRIBUTOR ............................................................ XX i |
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ....................................... XX THE TRANSFER AGENT ......................................................... XX THE CUSTODIAN .............................................................. XX INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM .............................. XX LEGAL COUNSEL .............................................................. XX TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST ......................................... XX PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES ............................................ XX DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE ........................................... XX TAXES ...................................................................... XX FUND TRANSACTIONS .......................................................... XX PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ......................................................... XX DESCRIPTION OF SHARES ...................................................... XX SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY ...................................................... XX LIMITATION OF TRUSTEES' LIABILITY .......................................... XX PROXY VOTING ............................................................... XX CODES OF ETHICS ............................................................ XX 5% AND 25% SHAREHOLDERS .................................................... XX APPENDIX A -- DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS ....................................... A-1 APPENDIX B -- PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ......................... B-1 November 29, 2010 [INSERT CODE] |
THE TRUST
GENERAL. Each Fund is a separate series of the Trust. The Trust is an open-end investment management company established under Massachusetts law as a Massachusetts voluntary association (commonly known as a business trust) under a Declaration of Trust dated July 24, 1992, as amended and restated as of February 18, 2004 and August 10, 2004. Prior to August 10, 2004, the Trust's name was The Arbor Fund. The Declaration of Trust permits the Trust to offer separate series ("funds") of shares of beneficial interest ("shares"). The Trust reserves the right to create and issue shares of additional funds. Each fund is a separate mutual fund, and each share of each fund represents an equal proportionate interest in that fund. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any fund and all assets of such fund belong solely to that fund and would be subject to any liabilities related thereto. Each Fund pays its (i) operating expenses, including fees of its service providers, expenses of preparing prospectuses, proxy solicitation material and reports to shareholders, costs of custodial services and registering its shares under federal and state securities laws, pricing, insurance expenses, brokerage costs, interest charges, taxes and organization expenses; and (ii) pro rata share of the Fund's other expenses, including audit and legal expenses. Expenses attributable to a specific fund shall be payable solely out of the assets of that fund. Expenses not attributable to a specific fund are allocated across all of the funds on the basis of relative net assets. The other funds of the Trust are described in one or more separate Statements of Additional Information.
DESCRIPTION OF MULTIPLE CLASSES OF SHARES. The Trust is authorized to offer shares of the Funds in Institutional Class Shares and Class A Shares; however, Class A Shares of the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund are currently not available for purchase. The different classes provide for variations in sales charges, certain distribution and shareholder servicing expenses and minimum initial investment requirements. Minimum investment requirements and investor eligibility are described in the prospectuses. The Trust reserves the right to create and issue additional classes of shares. For more information on distribution expenses, see "The Distributor" section in this SAI.
HISTORY OF CERTAIN FUNDS. Each Fund, except for the LKCM Frost Small Cap Equity Fund, is a successor to a collective investment trust and/or one or more common trust funds (each, a "Predecessor Fund" and collectively, the "Predecessor Funds") of The Frost National Bank formed in San Antonio, Texas. As a result of the conversion from a collective investment trust and/or common trust funds, the Funds assumed all assets and liabilities of the Predecessor Funds. The Predecessor Funds were managed by The Frost National Bank using substantially the same investment objectives, strategies, policies and restrictions as those used by the Funds. Each of the Predecessor Funds reorganized into the Trust in April 2008. A substantial portion of the assets of each Predecessor Fund was transferred to its successor in connection with the Funds' commencement of operations.
VOTING RIGHTS. Each shareholder of record is entitled to one vote for each share held on the record date for the meeting. Each Fund will vote separately on matters relating solely to it. As a Massachusetts voluntary association, the Trust is not required, and does not intend, to hold annual meetings of shareholders. Approval of shareholders will be sought, however, for certain changes in the operation of the Trust and for the election of Trustees under certain circumstances. Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees have the power to liquidate one or more Funds without shareholder approval. While the Trustees have no present intention of exercising this power, they may do so if a Fund fails to reach a viable size within a reasonable amount of time or for such other reasons as may be determined by the Board of Trustees.
In addition, a Trustee may be removed by the remaining Trustees or by shareholders at a special meeting called upon written request of shareholders owning at least 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust. In the event that such a meeting is requested, the Trust will provide appropriate assistance and information to the shareholders requesting the meeting.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
Each Fund's investment objective(s) and principal investment strategies are described in the Funds' prospectuses. Each Fund is classified as a "diversified" investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). The following information supplements, and should be read in conjunction with, the prospectuses. For a description of certain permitted investments discussed below, see the "Description of Permitted Investments" section in this SAI.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE. Portfolio turnover rate is defined under the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") rules as the value of the securities purchased or securities sold, excluding all securities whose maturities at the time of acquisition were one year or less, divided by the average monthly value of such securities owned during the year. Based on this definition, instruments with remaining maturities of less than one year are excluded from the calculation of the portfolio turnover rate. Instruments excluded from the calculation of portfolio turnover may include futures contracts in which the Funds may invest since such contracts generally have remaining maturities of less than one year. The Funds may at times hold investments in other short-term instruments, such as repurchase agreements, which are excluded for purposes of computing portfolio turnover. For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the portfolio turnover rates for each Fund were as follows:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND 2009 2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Core Growth Equity Fund 72% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund 65% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Strategic Balanced Fund 33% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund 12% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Small Cap Equity Fund 273% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost International Equity Fund 51% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Bond Fund 56% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Total Return Bond Fund 67% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Municipal Bond Fund 14% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund 27% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Treasury And Income Fund 114% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund 34% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund 88% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
DESCRIPTION OF PERMITTED INVESTMENTS
The following are descriptions of the permitted investments and investment practices discussed in the "Additional Information About Investment Objectives and Policies" section and the associated risk factors. The Funds will only invest in any of the following instruments or engage in any of the following investment practices if such investment or activity is consistent with each Fund's investment objective(s) and permitted by the Fund's stated investment policies.
EQUITY SECURITIES
TYPES OF EQUITY SECURITIES:
COMMON STOCKS -- Common stocks represent units of ownership in a company. Common stocks usually carry voting rights and earn dividends. Unlike preferred stocks, which are described below, dividends on common stocks are not fixed but are declared at the discretion of the company's board of directors.
PREFERRED STOCKS -- Preferred stocks are also units of ownership in a company. Preferred stocks normally have preference over common stock in the payment of dividends and the liquidation of the company. However, in all other respects, preferred stocks are subordinated to the liabilities of the issuer. Unlike common stocks, preferred stocks are generally not entitled to vote on corporate matters. Types of preferred stocks include adjustable-rate preferred stock, fixed dividend preferred stock, perpetual preferred stock, and sinking fund preferred stock. Generally, the market values of preferred stock with a fixed dividend rate and no conversion element varies inversely with interest rates and perceived credit risk.
CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES -- Convertible securities are securities that may be exchanged for, converted into, or exercised to acquire a predetermined number of shares of the issuer's common stock at the Fund's option during a specified time period (such as convertible preferred stocks, convertible debentures and warrants). A convertible security is generally a fixed income security that is senior to common stock in an issuer's capital structure, but is usually subordinated to similar non-convertible securities. In exchange for the conversion feature, many corporations will pay a lower rate of interest on convertible securities than debt securities of the same corporation. In general, the market value of a convertible security is at least the higher of its "investment value" (i.e., its value as a fixed income security) or its "conversion value" (i.e., its value upon conversion into its underlying common stock).
Convertible securities are subject to the same risks as similar securities without the convertible feature. The price of a convertible security is more volatile during times of steady interest rates than other types of debt securities. The price of a convertible security tends to increase as the market value of the underlying stock rises, whereas it tends to decrease as the market value of the underlying common stock declines.
A synthetic convertible security is a combination investment in which the Fund purchases both (i) high-grade cash equivalents or a high grade debt obligation of an issuer or U.S. government securities and (ii) call options or warrants on the common stock of the same or different issuer with some or all of the anticipated interest income from the associated debt obligation that is earned over the holding period of the option or warrant.
While providing a fixed income stream (generally higher in yield than the income derivable from common stock but lower than that afforded by a similar non-convertible security), a convertible security also affords an investor the opportunity, through its conversion feature, to participate in the capital appreciation attendant upon a market price advance in the convertible security's underlying common stock. A synthetic convertible position has similar investment characteristics, but may differ with respect to credit quality, time to maturity, trading characteristics, and other factors. Because the Fund will create synthetic convertible positions only out of high grade fixed income securities, the credit rating associated with the Fund's synthetic convertible investments is generally expected to be higher than that of the average convertible security, many of which are rated below high grade. However, because the options
used to create synthetic convertible positions will generally have expirations between one month and three years of the time of purchase, the maturity of these positions will generally be shorter than average for convertible securities. Since the option component of a convertible security or synthetic convertible position is a wasting asset (in the sense of losing "time value" as maturity approaches), a synthetic convertible position may lose such value more rapidly than a convertible security of longer maturity; however, the gain in option value due to appreciation of the underlying stock may exceed such time value loss, the market price of the option component generally reflects these differences in maturities, and each Fund's investment managers takes such differences into account when evaluating such positions. When a synthetic convertible position "matures" because of the expiration of the associated option, the Fund may extend the maturity by investing in a new option with longer maturity on the common stock of the same or different issuer. If the Fund does not so extend the maturity of a position, it may continue to hold the associated fixed income security.
RIGHTS AND WARRANTS -- A right is a privilege granted to existing shareholders of a corporation to subscribe to shares of a new issue of common stock before it is issued. Rights normally have a short life, usually two to four weeks, are freely transferable and entitle the holder to buy the new common stock at a lower price than the public offering price. Warrants are securities that are usually issued together with a debt security or preferred stock and that give the holder the right to buy proportionate amount of common stock at a specified price. Warrants are freely transferable and are traded on major exchanges. Unlike rights, warrants normally have a life that is measured in years and entitles the holder to buy common stock of a company at a price that is usually higher than the market price at the time the warrant is issued. Corporations often issue warrants to make the accompanying debt security more attractive.
An investment in warrants and rights may entail greater risks than certain other types of investments. Generally, rights and warrants do not carry the right to receive dividends or exercise voting rights with respect to the underlying securities, and they do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuer. In addition, their value does not necessarily change with the value of the underlying securities, and they cease to have value if they are not exercised on or before their expiration date. Investing in rights and warrants increases the potential profit or loss to be realized from the investment as compared with investing the same amount in the underlying securities.
RISKS OF INVESTING IN EQUITY SECURITIES:
GENERAL RISKS OF INVESTING IN STOCKS -- While investing in stocks allows investors to participate in the benefits of owning a company, such investors must accept the risks of ownership. Unlike bondholders, who have preference to a company's earnings and cash flow, preferred stockholders, followed by common stockholders in order of priority, are entitled only to the residual amount after a company meets its other obligations. For this reason, the value of a company's stock will usually react more strongly to actual or perceived changes in the company's financial condition or prospects than its debt obligations. Stockholders of a company that fares poorly can lose money.
Stock markets tend to move in cycles with short or extended periods of rising and falling stock prices. The value of a company's stock may fall because of:
o Factors that directly relate to that company, such as decisions made by its management or lower demand for the company's products or services;
o Factors affecting an entire industry, such as increases in production costs; and
o Changes in general financial market conditions that are relatively unrelated to the
company or its industry, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates or inflation rates.
Because preferred stock is generally junior to debt securities and other obligations of the issuer, deterioration in the credit quality of the issuer will cause greater changes in the value of a preferred stock than in a more senior debt security with similar stated yield characteristics.
SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES -- Investors in small and medium-sized companies typically take on greater risk and price volatility than they would by investing in larger, more established companies. This increased risk may be due to the greater business risks of their small or medium size, limited markets and financial resources, narrow product lines and frequent lack of management depth. The securities of small and medium-sized companies are often traded in the over-the-counter market and might not be traded in volumes typical of securities traded on a national securities exchange. Thus, the securities of small and medium capitalization companies are likely to be less liquid, and subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements, than securities of larger, more established companies.
TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES -- Stocks of technology companies have tended to be subject to greater volatility than securities of companies that are not dependent upon or associated with technological issues. Technology companies operate in various industries. Since these industries frequently share common characteristics, an event or issue affecting one industry may significantly influence other, related industries. For example, technology companies may be strongly affected by worldwide scientific or technological developments and their products and services may be subject to governmental regulation or adversely affected by governmental policies.
INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS ("IPO") -- Each Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities of companies offering shares in IPOs. IPOs may have a magnified performance impact on the Fund with a small asset base. The impact of IPOs on the Fund's performance likely will decrease as the Fund's asset size increases, which could reduce the Fund's total returns. IPOs may not be consistently available to a Fund for investing, particularly as the Fund's asset base grows. Because IPO shares frequently are volatile in price, a Fund may hold IPO shares for a very short period of time. This may increase the turnover of the Fund's portfolio and may lead to increased expenses for the Fund, such as commissions and transaction costs. By selling IPO shares, the Fund may realize taxable gains it will subsequently distribute to shareholders. In addition, the market for IPO shares can be speculative and/or inactive for extended periods of time. The limited number of shares available for trading in some IPOs may make it more difficult for the Fund to buy or sell significant amounts of shares without an unfavorable impact on prevailing prices. Holders of IPO shares can be affected by substantial dilution in the value of their shares, by sales of additional shares and by concentration of control in existing management and principal shareholders.
A Fund's investment in IPO shares may include the securities of unseasoned companies (companies with less than three years of continuous operations), which presents risks considerably greater than common stocks of more established companies. These companies may have limited operating histories and their prospects for profitability may be uncertain. These companies may be involved in new and evolving businesses and may be vulnerable to competition and changes in technology, markets and economic conditions. They may be more dependent on key managers and third parties and may have limited product lines.
DEBT SECURITIES
Corporations and governments use debt securities to borrow money from investors. Most debt securities promise a variable or fixed rate of return and repayment of the amount borrowed at maturity. Some debt securities, such as zero-coupon bonds, do not pay current interest and are purchased at a discount from their face value.
TYPES OF DEBT SECURITIES:
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES - The Fund may invest in U.S. government securities. Securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities include U.S. Treasury securities, which are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury and which differ only in their interest rates, maturities, and times of issuance. U.S. Treasury bills have initial maturities of one-year or less; U.S. Treasury notes have initial maturities of one to ten years; and U.S. Treasury bonds generally have initial maturities of greater than ten years. Certain U.S. government securities are issued or guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government including, but not limited to, obligations of U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities such as Fannie Mae, the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae"), the Small Business Administration, the Federal Farm Credit Administration, the Federal Home Loan Banks, Banks for Cooperatives (including the Central Bank for Cooperatives), the Federal Land Banks, the Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Federal Financing Bank, the Student Loan Marketing Association, the National Credit Union Administration and the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac).
Some obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies and instrumentalities, including, for example, Ginnie Mae pass-through certificates, are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury. Other obligations issued by or guaranteed by federal agencies, such as those securities issued by Fannie Mae, are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to purchase certain obligations of the federal agency, while other obligations issued by or guaranteed by federal agencies, such as those of the Federal Home Loan Banks, are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, while the U.S. government provides financial support to such U.S. government-sponsored federal agencies, no assurance can be given that the U.S. government will always do so, since the U.S. government is not so obligated by law. U.S. Treasury notes and bonds typically pay coupon interest semi-annually and repay the principal at maturity.
On September 7, 2008, the U.S. Treasury announced a federal takeover of Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac, placing the two federal instrumentalities in conservatorship. Under the takeover, the U.S. Treasury agreed to acquire $1 billion of senior preferred stock of each instrumentality and obtained warrants for the purchase of common stock of each instrumentality (the "Senior Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement" or "Agreement"). Under the Agreement, the U.S. Treasury pledged to provide up to $200 billion per instrumentality as needed, including the contribution of cash capital to the instrumentalities in the event their liabilities exceed their assets. This was intended to ensure that the instrumentalities maintain a positive net worth and meet their financial obligations, preventing mandatory triggering of receivership. On December 24, 2009, the U.S. Treasury announced that it was amending the Agreement to allow the $200 billion cap on the U.S. Treasury's funding commitment to increase as necessary to accommodate any cumulative reduction in net worth over the next three years. As a result of this Agreement, the investments of holders, including the Fund, of mortgage-backed securities and other obligations issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are protected.
CORPORATE BONDS -- Corporations issue bonds and notes to raise money for working capital or for capital expenditures such as plant construction, equipment purchases and expansion. In return for the money loaned to the corporation by investors, the corporation promises to pay investors interest, and repay the principal amount of the bond or note.
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES -- Mortgage-backed securities are interests in pools of mortgage loans that various governmental, government-related and private organizations assemble as securities for sale to investors. Unlike most debt securities, which pay interest periodically and repay principal at maturity or on specified call dates, mortgage-backed securities make monthly payments that consist of both interest and principal payments. In effect, these payments are a "pass-through" of the monthly payments made by the individual borrowers on their mortgage loans, net of any fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of such securities. Since homeowners usually have the option of paying either part or all of the loan balance before maturity, the effective maturity of a mortgage-backed security is often shorter than is stated.
Governmental entities, private insurers and mortgage poolers may insure or guarantee the timely payment of interest and principal of these pools through various forms of insurance or guarantees, including individual loan, title, pool and hazard insurance and letters of credit. Each Fund's investment managers will consider such insurance and guarantees and the creditworthiness of the issuers thereof in determining whether a mortgage-related security meets its investment quality standards. It is possible that the private insurers or guarantors will not meet their obligations under the insurance policies or guarantee arrangements.
Although the market for such securities is becoming increasingly liquid, securities issued by certain private organizations may not be readily marketable.
MUNICIPAL SECURITIES -- Municipal notes include, but are not limited to, general obligation notes, tax anticipation notes (notes sold to finance working capital needs of the issuer in anticipation of receiving taxes on a future date), revenue anticipation notes (notes sold to provide needed cash prior to receipt of expected non-tax revenues from a specific source), bond anticipation notes, certificates of indebtedness, demand notes and construction loan notes.
Each Fund's investment managers may purchase industrial development and pollution control bonds if the interest paid is exempt from federal income tax. These bonds are issued by or on behalf of public authorities to raise money to finance various privately operated facilities for business and manufacturing, housing, sports, and pollution control. These bonds are also used to finance public facilities such as airports, mass transit systems, ports, and parking. The payment of the principal and interest on such bonds is dependent solely on the ability of the facility's user to meet its financial obligations and the pledge, if any, of real and personal property so financed as security for such payment.
Tax-exempt commercial paper will be limited to investments in obligations which are rated at least A-2 by Standard & Poor's Rating Service ("S&P") or Prime-2 by Moody's Investors Services ("Moody's") at the time of investment or which are of equivalent quality as determined by each Fund's investment managers.
Other types of tax-exempt instruments include floating rate notes. Investments in such floating rate instruments will normally involve industrial development or revenue bonds which provide that the rate of interest is set as a specific percentage of a designated base rate (such as the prime rate) at a major commercial bank, and that a Fund can demand payment of the obligation at all times or at stipulated dates on short notice (not to exceed 30 days) at par plus accrued interest. A
Fund may use the longer of the period required before the Fund is entitled to prepayment under such obligations or the period remaining until the next interest rate adjustment date for purposes of determining the maturity. Such obligations are frequently secured by letters of credit or other credit support arrangements provided by banks. The quality of the underlying credit or of the bank, as the case may be, must in the Each Fund's investment managers' opinion be equivalent to the long-term bond or commercial paper ratings stated above. Each Fund's investment managers will monitor the earning power, cash flow and liquidity ratios of the issuers of such instruments and the ability of an issuer of a demand instrument to pay principal and interest on demand. Each Fund's investment managers may purchase other types of tax-exempt instruments as long as they are of a quality equivalent to the bond ratings in the Appendix or commercial paper ratings stated above.
Each Fund's investment managers have the authority to purchase securities at a price which would result in a yield to maturity lower than that generally offered by the seller at the time of purchase when they can simultaneously acquire the right to sell the securities back to the seller, the issuer, or a third party (the "writer") at an agreed-upon price at any time during a stated period or on a certain date. Such a right is generally denoted as a "standby commitment" or a "put." The purpose of engaging in transactions involving puts is to maintain flexibility and liquidity to permit a Fund to meet redemptions and remain as fully invested as possible in municipal securities. Each Fund reserves the right to engage in put transactions. The right to put the securities depends on the writer's ability to pay for the securities at the time the put is exercised. Each Fund would limit its put transactions to institutions which Each Fund's investment managers believes present minimum credit risks, and each Fund's investment managers would use its best efforts to initially determine and continue to monitor the financial strength of the sellers of the options by evaluating their financial statements and such other information as is available in the marketplace. It may, however be difficult to monitor the financial strength of the writers because adequate current financial information may not be available. In the event that any writer is unable to honor a put for financial reasons, the Fund would be general creditor (i.e., on a parity with all other unsecured creditors) of the writer. Furthermore, particular provisions of the contract between the Fund and the writer may excuse the writer from repurchasing the securities; for example, a change in the published rating of the underlying municipal securities or any similar event that has an adverse effect on the issuer's credit or a provision in the contract that the put will not be exercised except in certain special cases, for example, to maintain portfolio liquidity. A Fund could, however, at any time sell the underlying portfolio security in the open market or wait until the portfolio security matures, at which time it should realize the full par value of the security.
The municipal securities purchased subject to a put may be sold to third persons at any time, even though the put is outstanding, but the put itself, unless it is an integral part of the security as originally issued, may not be marketable or otherwise assignable. Therefore, the put would have value only to the Fund. Sale of the securities to third parties or lapse of time with the put unexercised may terminate the right to put the securities. Prior to the expiration of any put option, a Fund could seek to negotiate terms for the extension of such an option. If such a renewal cannot be negotiated on terms satisfactory to the Fund, the Fund could, of course, sell the portfolio security. The maturity of the underlying security will generally be different from that of the put. There will be no limit to the percentage of portfolio securities that the Fund may purchase subject to a put but the amount paid directly or indirectly for puts which are not integral parts of the security as originally issued held in the Fund will not exceed 1/2 of 1% of the value of the total assets of such Fund calculated immediately after any such put is acquired. For the purpose of determining the "maturity" of securities purchased subject to an option to put, and for the purpose of determining the dollar-weighted average maturity of the Fund including such
securities, the Trust will consider "maturity" to be the first date on which it has the right to demand payment from the writer of the put although the final maturity of the security is later than such date.
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS RELATING TO STATE SPECIFIC MUNICIPAL SECURITIES -- With respect to municipal securities issued by a state and its political subdivisions, as well as certain other governmental issuers such as the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Trust cannot predict what legislation, if any, may be proposed in the state's legislature in regards to the state's personal income tax status of interest on such obligations, or which proposals, if any, might be enacted. Such proposals, if enacted, might materially adversely affect the availability of the state's municipal securities for investment by a Fund and the value of a Fund's investments.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS RELATING TO TEXAS MUNICIPAL SECURITIES -- The Frost Municipal Bond Fund and the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund each may invest more than 25% of their total assets in securities issued by Texas and its municipalities, and as a result are more vulnerable to unfavorable developments in Texas than funds that invest a lesser percentage of their assets in such securities. For example, important sectors of the State's economy include the oil and gas industry (including drilling, production, refining, chemicals and energy-related manufacturing) and high technology manufacturing (including computers, electronics and telecommunications equipment), along with an increasing emphasis on international trade. Each of these sectors has from time to time suffered from economic downturns. Adverse conditions in one or more of these sectors could have an adverse impact on Texas municipal securities.
GOVERNMENT NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION ("GNMA") -- GNMA is the principal governmental guarantor of mortgage-related securities. GNMA is a wholly owned corporation of the U.S. government within the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Securities issued by GNMA are treasury securities, which means the full faith and credit of the U.S. government backs them. GNMA guarantees the timely payment of principal and interest on securities issued by institutions approved by GNMA and backed by pools of FHA-insured or VA-guaranteed mortgages. GNMA does not guarantee the market value or yield of mortgage-backed securities or the value of a Fund's shares. To buy GNMA securities, a Fund may have to pay a premium over the maturity value of the underlying mortgages, which the Fund may lose if prepayment occurs.
FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION ("FNMA") -- FNMA is a
government-sponsored corporation owned entirely by private stockholders. FNMA
is regulated by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. FNMA purchases
conventional mortgages from a list of approved sellers and service providers,
including state and federally-chartered savings and loan associations, mutual
savings banks, commercial banks and credit unions and mortgage bankers.
Securities issued by FNMA are agency securities, which means FNMA, but not the
U.S. government, guarantees their timely payment of principal and interest.
FREDDIE MAC -- Freddie Mac is stockholder-owned corporation established by the U.S. Congress to create a continuous flow of funds to mortgage lenders. Freddie Mac supplies lenders with the money to make mortgages and packages the mortgages into marketable securities. The system is designed to create a stable mortgage credit system and reduce the rates paid by homebuyers. Freddie Mac, not the U.S. government, guarantees timely payment of principal and interest.
COMMERCIAL BANKS, SAVINGS AND LOAN INSTITUTIONS, PRIVATE MORTGAGE INSURANCE COMPANIES, MORTGAGE BANKERS AND OTHER SECONDARY MARKET ISSUERS -- Commercial banks, savings and loan institutions, private mortgage insurance companies, mortgage bankers and other
secondary market issuers also create pass-through pools of conventional mortgage loans. In addition to guaranteeing the mortgage-related security, such issuers may service and/or have originated the underlying mortgage loans. Pools created by these issuers generally offer a higher rate of interest than pools created by GNMA, FNMA & Freddie Mac because they are not guaranteed by a government agency.
RISKS OF MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES -- Yield characteristics of mortgage-backed securities differ from those of traditional debt securities in a variety of ways, the most significant differences of mortgage-backed securities are:
o payments of interest and principal are more frequent (usually monthly); and
o falling interest rates generally cause individual borrowers to pay off their mortgage earlier than expected, which results in prepayments of principal on the securities, thus forcing a Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
In addition to risks associated with changes in interest rates described in "Factors Affecting the Value of Debt Securities," a variety of economic, geographic, social and other factors, such as the sale of the underlying property, refinancing or foreclosure, can cause investors to repay the loans underlying a mortgage-backed security sooner than expected. When prepayment occurs, a Fund may have to reinvest its principal at a rate of interest that is lower than the rate on existing mortgage-backed securities.
OTHER ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES -- These securities are interests in pools of a broad range of assets other than mortgages, such as automobile loans, computer leases and credit card receivables. Like mortgage-backed securities, these securities are pass-through. In general, the collateral supporting these securities is of shorter maturity than mortgage loans and is less likely to experience substantial prepayments with interest rate fluctuations, but may still be subject to prepayment risk.
Asset-backed securities present certain risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities. Primarily, these securities may not have the benefit of any security interest in the related assets, which raises the possibility that recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support payments on these securities. For example, credit card receivables are generally unsecured and the debtors are entitled to the protection of a number of state and federal consumer credit laws, many of which allow debtors to reduce their balances by offsetting certain amounts owed on the credit cards. Most issuers of asset-backed securities backed by automobile receivables permit the servicers of such receivables to retain possession of the underlying obligations. If the servicer were to sell these obligations to another party, there is a risk that the purchaser would acquire an interest superior to that of the holders of the related asset-backed securities. Due to the quantity of vehicles involved and requirements under state laws, asset-backed securities backed by automobile receivables may not have a proper security interest in all of the obligations backing such receivables.
To lessen the effect of failures by obligors on underlying assets to make payments, the entity administering the pool of assets may agree to ensure the receipt of payments on the underlying pool occurs in a timely fashion ("liquidity protection"). In addition, asset-backed securities may obtain insurance, such as guarantees, policies or letters of credit obtained by the issuer or sponsor from third parties, for some or all of the assets in the pool ("credit support"). Delinquency or loss more than that anticipated or failure of the credit support could adversely affect the return on an investment in such a security.
A Fund may also invest in residual interests in asset-backed securities, which consists of the excess cash flow remaining after making required payments on the securities and paying related administrative expenses. The amount of residual cash flow resulting from a particular issue of asset-backed securities depends in part on the characteristics of the underlying assets, the coupon rates on the securities, prevailing interest rates, the amount of administrative expenses and the actual prepayment experience on the underlying assets.
COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS ("CMOS") -- CMOs are one type of mortgage-backed security, which were first introduced in the early 1980's. CMOs generally retain many of the yield and credit quality characteristics as mortgage pass-through securities, while reducing some of the disadvantages of pass-throughs. CMOs may be backed by several types of varying mortgage collateral. The most prevalent types of collateral are: U.S. agency (e.g., GNMA, FNMA, or FHLMC) guaranteed mortgage pass-through securities, non-agency guaranteed mortgage loans, and commercial mortgage loans.
Some CMOs are also characterized as a Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit ("REMIC"). A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and invests in certain mortgages primarily secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments.
A key difference between traditional mortgage pass-through securities and CMOs is the mechanics of the principal payment process. Unlike pass-through securities, which simply pay a pro rata distribution of any principal and interest payments from the underlying mortgage collateral, CMOs are structured into multiple classes, each bearing a different stated maturity and each potentially having different credit rating levels. Each class of CMO, often referred to as a "tranche", may be issued with a specific fixed interest rate or may pay a variable interest rate, which may change monthly. Each tranche must be fully retired by its final distribution date. Generally, all classes of CMOs pay or accrue interest monthly similar to pass-through securities.
The credit risk of all CMOs are not identical and must be assessed on a security by security basis. Generally, the credit risk of CMOs are heavily dependent upon the type of collateral backing the security. For example, a CMO collateralized by U.S. agency guaranteed pass-through securities will have a different credit risk profile compared to a CMO collateralized by commercial mortgage loans. Investing in the lowest tranche of CMO or REMIC certificates often involves risk similar to those associated with investing in non-investment grade rated corporate bonds. Additionally, CMOs may at times be less liquid than a regular mortgage pass-through security.
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS -- To earn a return on uninvested assets, meet anticipated redemptions, or for temporary defensive purposes, a Fund may invest a portion of its assets in the short-term securities listed below, U.S. government securities and investment-grade corporate debt securities. Unless otherwise specified, a short-term debt security has a maturity of one year or less.
BANK OBLIGATIONS -- A Fund will only invest in a security issued by a commercial bank if the bank:
o has total assets of at least $1 billion, or the equivalent in other currencies (based on the most recent publicly available information about the bank);
o is a U.S. bank and a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; and
o is a foreign branch of a U.S. bank and each Fund's investment managers believe the security is of an investment quality comparable with other debt securities that the Funds may purchase.
TIME DEPOSITS -- Time deposits are non-negotiable deposits, such as savings accounts or certificates of deposit, held by a financial institution for a fixed term with the understanding that the depositor can withdraw its money only by giving notice to the institution. However, there may be early withdrawal penalties depending upon market conditions and the remaining maturity of the obligation. A Fund may only purchase time deposits maturing from two business days through seven calendar days.
CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT -- Certificates of deposit are negotiable certificates issued against funds deposited in a commercial bank or savings and loan association for a definite period of time and earning a specified return.
BANKERS' ACCEPTANCE -- A bankers' acceptance is a time draft drawn on a commercial bank by a borrower, usually in connection with an international commercial transaction (to finance the import, export, transfer or storage of goods).
COMMERCIAL PAPER -- Commercial paper is a short-term obligation with a maturity ranging from one to 270 days issued by banks, corporations and other borrowers. Such investments are unsecured and usually discounted. A Fund may invest in commercial paper rated A-1 or A-2 by S&P or Prime-1 or Prime-2 by Moody's or, if not rated, issued by a corporation having an outstanding unsecured debt issue rated A or better by Moody's or by S&P. See "Appendix A --Ratings" for a description of commercial paper ratings.
YANKEE BONDS -- Yankee bonds are dollar-denominated bonds issued inside the United States by foreign entities. Investments in these securities involve certain risks that are not typically associated with investing in domestic securities. See "Foreign Securities."
ZERO COUPON BONDS -- These securities make no periodic payments of interest, but instead are sold at a discount from their face value. When held to maturity, their entire income, which consists of accretion of discount, comes from the difference between the issue price and their value at maturity. The amount of the discount rate varies depending on factors including the time remaining until maturity, prevailing interest rates, the security's liquidity and the issuer's credit quality. The market value of zero coupon securities may exhibit greater price volatility than ordinary debt securities because a stripped security will have a longer duration than an ordinary debt security with the same maturity. A Fund's investments in pay-in-kind, delayed and zero coupon bonds may require it to sell certain of its portfolio securities to generate sufficient cash to satisfy certain income distribution requirements.
These securities may include treasury securities that have had their interest payments ("coupons") separated from the underlying principal ("corpus") by their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment brokerage firm. Once the holder of the security has stripped or separated corpus and coupons, it may sell each component separately. The principal or corpus is then sold at a deep
discount because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future fixed
payment on the security and does not receive any rights to periodic interest
(cash) payments. Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped with
other coupons with like maturity dates and sold bundled in such form. The
underlying treasury security is held in book-entry form at the Federal Reserve
Bank or, in the case of bearer securities (i.e., unregistered securities which
are owned ostensibly by the bearer or holder thereof), in trust on behalf of
the owners thereof. Purchasers of stripped obligations acquire, in effect,
discount obligations that are economically identical to the zero coupon
securities that the Treasury sells itself.
The U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero coupon securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular interest coupon and corpus payments on Treasury securities through the Federal Reserve book-entry record keeping system. Under a Federal Reserve program known as "STRIPS" or "Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities," a Fund may record its beneficial ownership of the coupon or corpus directly in the book-entry record-keeping system.
TERMS TO UNDERSTAND:
MATURITY -- Every debt security has a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the amount it borrowed (principal) from investors. Some debt securities, however, are callable, meaning the issuer can repay the principal earlier, on or after specified dates (call dates). Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate, similar to a homeowner refinancing a mortgage. The effective maturity of a debt security is usually its nearest call date.
A Fund that invests in debt securities has no real maturity. Instead, it calculates its weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the effective or anticipated maturity of each debt security held by a Fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of the assets of the Fund it represents.
DURATION -- Duration is a calculation that seeks to measure the price sensitivity of a debt security, or a Fund that invests in debt securities, to changes in interest rates. It measures sensitivity more accurately than maturity because it takes into account the time value of cash flows generated over the life of a debt security. Future interest payments and principal payments are discounted to reflect their present value and then are multiplied by the number of years they will be received to produce a value expressed in years -- the duration. Effective duration takes into account call features and sinking Fund prepayments that may shorten the life of a debt security.
An effective duration of four years, for example, would suggest that for each 1% reduction in interest rates at all maturity levels, the price of a security is estimated to increase by 4%. An increase in rates by the same magnitude is estimated to reduce the price of the security by 4%. By knowing the yield and the effective duration of a debt security, one can estimate total return based on an expectation of how much interest rates, in general, will change. While serving as a good estimator of prospective returns, effective duration is an imperfect measure.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE VALUE OF DEBT SECURITIES -- The total return of a debt instrument is composed of two elements: the percentage change in the security's price and interest income earned. The yield to maturity of a debt security estimates its total return only if the price of the debt security remains unchanged during the holding period and coupon interest is reinvested at the same yield to maturity. The total return of a debt instrument, therefore, will be determined not
only by how much interest is earned, but also by how much the price of the security and interest rates change.
O INTEREST RATES
The price of a debt security generally moves in the opposite direction from interest rates (i.e., if interest rates go up, the value of the bond will go down, and vice versa).
O PREPAYMENT RISK
This risk affects mainly mortgage-backed securities. Unlike other debt securities, falling interest rates can adversely affect the value of mortgage-backed securities, which may cause your share price to fall. Lower rates motivate borrowers to pay off the instruments underlying mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, resulting in prepayments on the securities. A Fund may then have to reinvest the proceeds from such prepayments at lower interest rates, which can reduce its yield. The unexpected timing of mortgage and asset-backed prepayments caused by the variations in interest rates may also shorten or lengthen the average maturity of a Fund. If left unattended, drifts in the average maturity of a Fund can have the unintended effect of increasing or reducing the effective duration of the Fund, which may adversely affect the expected performance of the Fund.
O EXTENSION RISK
The other side of prepayment risk occurs when interest rates are rising. Rising interest rates can cause a Fund's average maturity to lengthen unexpectedly due to a drop in mortgage prepayments. This would increase the sensitivity of a Fund to rising rates and its potential for price declines. Extending the average life of a mortgage-backed security increases the risk of depreciation due to future increases in market interest rates. For these reasons, mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than other types of U.S. government securities as a means of "locking in" interest rates.
O CREDIT RATING
Coupon interest is offered to investors of debt securities as compensation for assuming risk, although short-term treasury securities, such as three-month treasury bills, are considered "risk free." Corporate securities offer higher yields than treasury securities because their payment of interest and complete repayment of principal is less certain. The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risks that the issuer will fail to pay interest and return principal. To compensate investors for taking on increased risk, issuers with lower credit ratings usually offer their investors a higher "risk premium" in the form of higher interest rates than those available from comparable treasury securities.
Changes in investor confidence regarding the certainty of interest and principal payments of a corporate debt security will result in an adjustment to this "risk premium." Since an issuer's outstanding debt carries a fixed coupon, adjustments to the risk premium must occur in the price, which affects the yield to maturity of the bond. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the bond may lose some or all of its value.
A security rated within the four highest rating categories by a rating agency is called investment-grade because its issuer is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower
rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal. If a security is not rated or is rated under a different system, each Fund's investment managers may determine that it is of investment-grade. Each Fund's investment managers may retain securities that are downgraded, if it believes that keeping those securities is warranted.
Debt securities rated below investment-grade (junk bonds) are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller, less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. A corporation may issue a junk bond because of a corporate restructuring or other similar event. Compared with investment-grade bonds, junk bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business condition of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause a Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
Rating agencies are organizations that assign ratings to securities based primarily on the rating agency's assessment of the issuer's financial strength. The Funds currently use ratings compiled by Moody's, S&P and Fitch Inc. Credit ratings are only an agency's opinion, not an absolute standard of quality, and they do not reflect an evaluation of market risk.
The section "Appendix A -- Description of Ratings" contains further information concerning the ratings of certain rating agencies and their significance.
Each Fund's investment managers may use ratings produced by ratings agencies as guidelines to determine the rating of a security at the time a Fund buys it. A rating agency may change its credit ratings at any time. Each Fund's investment managers monitor the rating of the security and will take appropriate actions if a rating agency reduces the security's rating. A Fund is not obligated to dispose of securities whose issuers subsequently are in default or which are downgraded.
FOREIGN SECURITIES
Foreign securities are debt and equity securities that are traded in markets outside of the United States. The markets in which these securities are located can be developed or emerging. Consistent with their respective investment strategies, the Funds can invest in foreign securities in a number of ways:
o They can invest directly in foreign securities denominated in a foreign currency;
o They can invest in American Depositary Receipts, European Depositary Receipts and other similar global instruments; and
o They can invest in investment funds.
TYPES OF FOREIGN SECURITIES:
AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS (ADRS) -- ADRs as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. A custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer 's home country holds
the underlying shares in trust. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. ADRs are subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. European Depositary Receipts are similar to ADRs, except that they are typically issued by European banks or trust companies.
ADRs can be sponsored or unsponsored. While these types are similar, there are differences regarding a holder's rights and obligations and the practices of market participants. A depository may establish an unsponsored facility without participation by (or acquiescence of) the underlying issuer; typically, however, the depository requests a letter of non-objection from the underlying issuer prior to establishing the facility. Holders of unsponsored depositary receipts generally bear all the costs of the facility. The depository usually charges fees upon the deposit and withdrawal of the underlying securities, the conversion of dividends into U.S. dollars or other currency, the disposition of non-cash distributions, and the performance of other services. Sponsored depositary receipt facilities are created in generally the same manner as unsponsored facilities, except that sponsored depositary receipts are established jointly by a depository and the underlying issuer through a deposit agreement. The deposit agreement sets out the rights and responsibilities of the underlying issuer, the depository, and the depositary receipt holders. With sponsored facilities, the underlying issuer typically bears some of the costs of the depositary receipts (such as dividend payment fees of the depository), although most sponsored depositary receipts holders may bear costs such as deposit and withdrawal fees. Depositories of most sponsored depositary receipts agree to distribute notices of shareholder meetings, voting instructions, and other shareholder communications and information to the depositary receipt holders at the underlying issuer's request. The depositary of an unsponsored facility frequently is under no obligation to distribute shareholder communications received from the issuer of the deposited security or to pass through, to the holders of the receipts, voting rights with respect to the deposited securities.
EMERGING MARKETS -- An "emerging market country" is generally a country that the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank) and the International Finance Corporation would consider to be an emerging or developing country. Typically, emerging markets are in countries that are in the process of industrialization, with lower gross national products (GNP) than more developed countries. There are currently over 130 countries that the international financial community generally considers to be emerging or developing countries, approximately 40 of which currently have stock markets. These countries generally include every nation in the world except the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.
INVESTMENT FUNDS -- Some emerging countries currently prohibit direct foreign investment in the securities of their companies. Certain emerging countries, however, permit indirect foreign investment in the securities of companies listed and traded on their stock exchanges through investment funds that they have specifically authorized. Investments in these investment funds are subject to the provisions of the 1940 Act. If a Fund invests in such investment funds, shareholders will bear not only their proportionate share of the expenses (including operating expenses and the fees of the Adviser), but also will bear indirectly bear similar expenses of the underlying investment funds. In addition, these investment funds may trade at a premium over their net asset value.
RISKS OF FOREIGN SECURITIES:
Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.
POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS -- Local political, economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments may affect the value of foreign investments. Listed below are some of the more important political and economic factors that could negatively affect an investment in foreign securities:
o The economies of foreign countries may differ from the economy of the United States in such areas as growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency, budget deficits and national debt;
o Foreign governments sometimes participate to a significant degree, through ownership interests or regulation, in their respective economies. Actions by these governments could significantly influence the market prices of securities and payment of dividends;
o The economies of many foreign countries are dependent on international trade and their trading partners and they could be severely affected if their trading partners were to enact protective trade barriers and economic conditions;
o The internal policies of a particular foreign country may be less stable than in the United States. Other countries face significant external political risks, such as possible claims of sovereignty by other countries or tense and sometimes hostile border clashes; and
o A foreign government may act adversely to the interests of U.S. investors, including expropriation or nationalization of assets, confiscatory taxation and other restrictions on U. S. investment. A country may restrict or control foreign investments in its securities markets. These restrictions could limit a Fund's ability to invest in a particular country or make it very expensive for the Fund to invest in that country. Some countries require prior governmental approval, limit the types or amount of securities or companies in which a foreigner can invest. Other countries may restrict the ability of foreign investors to repatriate their investment income and capital gains.
INFORMATION AND SUPERVISION -- There is generally less publicly available information about foreign companies than companies based in the United States. For example, there are often no reports and ratings published about foreign companies comparable to the ones written about U.S. companies. Foreign companies are typically not subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies. The lack of comparable information makes investment decisions concerning foreign countries more difficult and less reliable than domestic companies.
STOCK EXCHANGE AND MARKET RISK -- Each Fund's investment managers anticipate that in most cases an exchange or over-the-counter ("OTC") market located outside of the United States will be the best available market for foreign securities. Foreign stock markets, while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as developed as the markets in the United States Foreign stock markets tend to differ from those in the United States in a number of ways.
FOREIGN STOCK MARKETS:
o are generally more volatile than, and not as developed or efficient as, those in the United States;
o have substantially less volume;
o trade securities that tend to be less liquid and experience rapid and erratic price movements;
o have generally higher commissions and are subject to set minimum rates, as opposed to negotiated rates;
o employ trading, settlement and custodial practices less developed than those in U.S. markets; and
o may have different settlement practices, which may cause delays and increase the potential for failed settlements.
Foreign markets may offer less protection to shareholders than U.S. markets because:
o foreign accounting, auditing, and financial reporting requirements may render a foreign corporate balance sheet more difficult to understand and interpret than one subject to U. S. law and standards;
o adequate public information on foreign issuers may not be available, and it may be difficult to secure dividends and information regarding corporate actions on a timely basis;
o in general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States;
o OTC markets tend to be less regulated than stock exchange markets and, in certain countries, may be totally unregulated;
o economic or political concerns may influence regulatory enforcement and may make it difficult for shareholders to enforce their legal rights; and
o restrictions on transferring securities within the United States or to U.S. persons may make a particular security less liquid than foreign securities of the same class that are not subject to such restrictions.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK -- While the Funds denominate their net asset value in U.S. dollars, the securities of foreign companies are frequently denominated in foreign currencies. Thus, a change in the value of a foreign currency against the U.S. dollar will result in a corresponding change in value of securities denominated in that currency. Some of the factors that may impair the investments denominated in a foreign currency are:
o It may be expensive to convert foreign currencies into U.S. dollars and vice versa;
o Complex political and economic factors may significantly affect the values of various currencies, including U.S. dollars, and their exchange rates;
o Government intervention may increase risks involved in purchasing or selling foreign currency options, forward contracts and futures contracts, since exchange rates may not be free to fluctuate in response to other market forces;
o There may be no systematic reporting of last sale information for foreign currencies or regulatory requirement that quotations available through dealers or other market sources be firm or revised on a timely basis;
o Available quotation information is generally representative of very large round-lot transactions in the inter-bank market and thus may not reflect exchange rates for smaller odd-lot transactions (less than $1 million) where rates may be less favorable; and
o The inter-bank market in foreign currencies is a global, around-the-clock market. To the extent that a market is closed while the markets for the underlying currencies remain open, certain markets may not always reflect significant price and rate movements.
TAXES -- Certain foreign governments levy withholding taxes on dividend and interest income. Although in some countries it is possible for a Fund to recover a portion of these taxes, the portion that cannot be recovered will reduce the income the Fund receives from its investments. The Funds do not expect such foreign withholding taxes to have a significant impact on performance.
EMERGING MARKETS -- Investing in emerging markets may magnify the risks of foreign investing. Security prices in emerging markets can be significantly more volatile than those in more developed markets, reflecting the greater uncertainties of investing in less established markets and economies. In particular, countries with emerging markets may:
o Have relatively unstable governments;
o Present greater risks of nationalization of businesses, restrictions on foreign ownership and prohibitions on the repatriation of assets;
o Offer less protection of property rights than more developed countries; and
o Have economies that are based on only a few industries, may be highly vulnerable to changes in local or global trade conditions, and may suffer from extreme and volatile debt burdens or inflation rates.
Local securities markets may trade a small number of securities and may be unable to respond effectively to increases in trading volume, potentially making prompt liquidation of holdings difficult or impossible at times.
DERIVATIVES
Derivatives are financial instruments whose value is based on an underlying asset, such as a stock or a bond, an underlying economic factor, such as an interest rate or a market benchmark, such as an index. Investors can use derivatives to gain exposure to various markets in a cost efficient manner, to reduce transaction costs, alter duration or to remain fully invested. They may also invest in derivatives to protect it from broad fluctuations in market prices, interest rates or foreign currency exchange rates. Investing in derivatives for these purposes is known as "hedging." When hedging is successful, a Fund will have offset any depreciation in the value of its Fund securities by the appreciation in the value of the derivative position. Although techniques other than the sale and purchase of derivatives could be used to control the exposure of the Fund to market fluctuations, the use of derivatives may be a more effective means of hedging this exposure. To the extent that the Fund engages in hedging, there can be no assurance that any hedge will be effective or that there will be a hedge in place at any given time.
Because many derivatives have a leverage or borrowing component, adverse changes in the value or level of the underlying asset, reference rate, or index can result in a loss substantially greater than the amount invested in the derivative itself. Certain derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the initial investment. Accordingly, certain derivative transactions may be considered to constitute borrowing transactions for purposes of the 1940 Act. Such a derivative transaction will not be considered to constitute the issuance of a "senior security" by the Fund, and therefore such transaction will not be subject to the 300% asset coverage requirement otherwise applicable to borrowings by the Fund, if the Fund covers the transaction or segregates sufficient liquid assets in accordance with the requirements, and subject to certain risks.
TYPES OF DERIVATIVES:
FUTURES -- A futures contract is an agreement between two parties whereby one party sells and the other party agrees to buy a specified amount of a financial instrument at an agreed upon price and time. The financial instrument underlying the contract may be a stock, stock index, bond, bond index, interest rate, foreign exchange rate or other similar instrument. Agreeing to buy the underlying financial information is called buying a futures contract or taking a long position in the contract. Likewise, agreeing to sell the underlying financial instrument is called selling a futures contract or taking a short position in the contract.
Futures contracts are traded in the United States on commodity exchanges or boards of trade --known as "contract markets" -- approved for such trading and regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"). These contract markets standardize the terms, including the maturity date and underlying financial instrument, of all futures contracts.
Unlike other securities, the parties to a futures contract do not have to pay for or deliver the underlying financial instrument until some future date (the delivery date). Contract markets require both the purchaser and seller to deposit "initial margin" with a futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant or custodian bank, when they enter into the contract. Initial margin deposits are typically equal to a percentage of the contract's value. After they open a futures contract, the parties to the transaction must compare the purchase price of the contract to its daily market value. If the value of the futures contract changes in such a way that a party's position declines, that party must make additional "variation margin" payments so that the margin payment is adequate. On the other hand, the value of the contract may change in such a way that there is excess margin on deposit, possibly entitling the party that has a gain to receive all or a portion of this amount. This process is known as "marking to the market."
Although the actual terms of a futures contract calls for the actual delivery of and payment for the underlying security, in many cases the parties may close the contract early by taking an opposite position in an identical contract. If the sale price upon closing out the contract is less than the original purchase price, the person closing out the contract will realize a loss. If the sale price upon closing out the contract is more than the original purchase price, the person closing out the contract will realize a gain. If the purchase price upon closing out the contract is more than the original sale price, the person closing out the contract will realize a loss. If the purchase price upon closing out the contract is less than the original sale price, the person closing out the contract will realize a gain.
A Fund may incur commission expenses when it opens or closes a futures position.
OPTIONS -- An option is a contract between two parties for the purchase and sale of a financial instrument for a specified price (known as the "strike price" or "exercise price") at any time during the option period. Unlike a futures contract, an option grants a right (not an obligation) to buy or sell a financial instrument. Generally, a seller of an option can grant a buyer two kinds of rights: a "call" (the right to buy the security) or a "put" (the right to sell the security). Options have various types of underlying instruments, including specific securities, indices of securities prices, foreign currencies, interest rates and futures contracts. Options may be traded on an exchange (exchange-traded-options) or may be customized agreements between the parties (over-the-counter or "OTC options"). Like futures, a financial intermediary, known as a clearing corporation, financially backs exchange-traded options. However, OTC options have no such intermediary and are subject to the risk that the counterparty will not fulfill its obligations under the contract.
O PURCHASING PUT AND CALL OPTIONS
When a Fund purchases a put option, it buys the right to sell the instrument underlying the option at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the Fund pays the current market price for the option (known as the "option premium"). The Fund may purchase put options to offset or hedge against a decline in the market value of its securities ("protective puts") or to benefit from a decline in the price of securities that it does not own. The 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. However, if the price of the underlying instrument does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer would lose the premium and related transaction costs.
Call options are similar to put options, except that the Fund obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. The Fund would normally purchase call options in anticipation of an increase in the market value of securities it owns or wants to buy. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying instrument exceeded the exercise price plus the premium paid and related transaction costs. Otherwise, the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the call option.
The purchaser of an option may terminate its position by:
o Allowing it to expire and losing its entire premium;
o Exercising the option and either selling (in the case of a put option) or buying (in the case of a call option) the underlying instrument at the strike price; or
o Closing it out in the secondary market at its current price.
O SELLING (WRITING) PUT AND CALL OPTIONS
When a Fund writes a call option it assumes an obligation 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. Similarly, when a Fund writes a put option it assumes an obligation to purchase specified securities from the option holder at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. The Fund may terminate its position in an exchange-traded put option before exercise by buying an option identical to the one it has written. Similarly, it may cancel an over-the-counter option by entering into an offsetting transaction with the counterparty to the option.
A Fund could try to hedge against an increase in the value of securities it would like to acquire by writing a put option on those securities. If security prices rise, the Fund would expect the put option to expire and the premium it received to offset the increase in the security's value. If security prices remain the same over time, the Fund would hope to profit by closing out the put option at a lower price. If security prices fall, the Fund may lose an amount of money equal to the difference between the value of the security and the premium it received. Writing covered put options may deprive the Fund of the opportunity to profit from a decrease in the market price of the securities it would like to acquire.
The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that call writers expect to profit if prices remain the same or fall. A Fund could try to hedge against a decline in the value of securities it already owns by writing a call option. If the price of that security falls as expected, the Fund would expect the option to expire and the premium it received
to offset the decline of the security's value. However, the Fund must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument in return for the strike price, which may deprive it of the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market price of the securities it holds.
A Fund is permitted only to write covered options. At the time of selling the call option, the Fund may cover the option by owning, among other things:
o The underlying security (or securities convertible into the underlying security without additional consideration), index, interest rate, foreign currency or futures contract;
o A call option on the same security or index with the same or lesser exercise price;
o A call option on the same security or index with a greater exercise price and segregating cash or liquid securities in an amount equal to the difference between the exercise prices;
o Cash or liquid securities equal to at least the market value of the optioned securities, interest rate, foreign currency or futures contract; or
o In the case of an index, the portfolio of securities that corresponds to the index.
At the time of selling a put option, a Fund may cover the put option by, among other things:
o Entering into a short position in the underlying security;
o Purchasing a put option on the same security, index, interest rate, foreign currency or futures contract with the same or greater exercise price;
o Purchasing a put option on the same security, index, interest rate, foreign currency or futures contract with a lesser exercise price and segregating cash or liquid securities in an amount equal to the difference between the exercise prices; or
o Maintaining the entire exercise price in liquid securities.
O OPTIONS ON SECURITIES INDICES
Options on securities indices are similar to options on securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash settlement 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.
O OPTIONS ON FUTURES
An option on a futures contract provides the holder with the right to buy a futures contract (in the case of a call option) or sell a futures contract (in the case of a put option) at a fixed time and price. Upon exercise of the option by the holder, the contract market clearing house establishes a corresponding short position for the writer of the option (in the case of a call option) or a corresponding long position (in the case of a put option). If the option is exercised, the parties will be subject to the futures contracts. In addition, the writer of an option on a futures contract is subject to initial and variation margin requirements on the option position. Options on futures contracts are traded on the same contract market as the underlying futures contract.
The buyer or seller of an option on a futures contract may terminate the option early by purchasing or selling an option of the same series (i.e., the same exercise price and expiration date) as the option previously purchased or sold. The difference between the premiums paid and received represents the trader's profit or loss on the transaction.
A Fund may purchase put and call options on futures contracts instead of selling or buying futures contracts. The Fund may buy a put option on a futures contract for the same reasons it would sell a futures contract. It also may purchase such put options in order to hedge a long position in the underlying futures contract. The Fund may buy call options on futures contracts for the same purpose as the actual purchase of the futures contracts, such as in anticipation of favorable market conditions.
A Fund may write a call option on a futures contract to hedge against a decline in the prices of the instrument underlying the futures contracts. If the price of the futures contract at expiration were below the exercise price, the Fund would retain the option premium, which would offset, in part, any decline in the value of its portfolio securities.
The writing of a put option on a futures contract is similar to the purchase of the futures contracts, except that, if the market price declines, a Fund would pay more than the market price for the underlying instrument. The premium received on the sale of the put option, less any transaction costs, would reduce the net cost to the Fund.
O COMBINED POSITIONS
A Fund may purchase and write options in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall position. For example, the Fund could construct a combined position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures contract by purchasing a put option and writing a call option on the same underlying instrument. Alternatively, the Fund could write a call option at one strike price and buy a call option at a lower price to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
O FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS
A forward foreign currency contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific amount of currency at a future date or date range at a specific price. In the case of a cancelable forward contract, the holder has the unilateral right to cancel the contract at maturity by paying a specified fee. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts differ from foreign currency futures contracts in certain respects. Unlike futures contracts, forward contracts:
o Do not have standard maturity dates or amounts (i.e., the parties to the contract may fix the maturity date and the amount).
o Are traded in the inter-bank markets conducted directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers, as opposed to futures contracts which are traded only on exchanges regulated by the CFTC.
o Do not require an initial margin deposit.
o May be closed by entering into a closing transaction with the currency trader who is a party to the original forward contract, as opposed to a commodities exchange.
FOREIGN CURRENCY HEDGING STRATEGIES -- A "settlement hedge" or "transaction hedge" is designed to protect a Fund against an adverse change in foreign currency values between the date a security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received. Entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in an underlying security transaction for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars "locks in" the U.S. dollar price of the security. The Fund may also use forward contracts to purchase or sell a foreign currency
when it anticipates purchasing or selling securities denominated in foreign currency, even if it has not yet selected the specific investments.
A Fund may use forward contracts to hedge against a decline in the value of existing investments denominated in foreign currency. Such a hedge, sometimes referred to as a "position hedge," would tend to offset both positive and negative currency fluctuations, but would not offset changes in security values caused by other factors. The Fund could also hedge the position by selling another currency expected to perform similarly to the currency in which the Fund's investment is denominated. This type of hedge, sometimes referred to as a "proxy hedge," could offer advantages in terms of cost, yield, or efficiency, but generally would not hedge currency exposure as effectively as a direct hedge into U.S. dollars. Proxy hedges may result in losses if the currency used to hedge does not perform similarly to the currency in which the hedged securities are denominated.
Transaction and position hedging do not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the securities that the Fund owns or intends to purchase or sell. They simply establish a rate of exchange that one can achieve at some future point in time. Additionally, these techniques tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in the value of the hedged currency and to limit any potential gain that might result from the increase in value of such currency.
A Fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment exposure from one currency into another. Such transactions may call for the delivery of one foreign currency in exchange for another foreign currency, including currencies in which its securities are not then denominated. This may include shifting exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy, sometimes known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that is purchased. Cross-hedges may protect against losses resulting from a decline in the hedged currency, but will cause the Fund to assume the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases. Cross hedging transactions also involve the risk of imperfect correlation between changes in the values of the currencies involved.
It is difficult to forecast with precision the market value of portfolio securities at the expiration or maturity of a forward or futures contract. Accordingly, a Fund may have to purchase additional foreign currency on the spot market if the market value of a security it is hedging is less than the amount of foreign currency it is obligated to deliver. Conversely, the Fund may have to sell on the spot market some of the foreign currency it received upon the sale of a security if the market value of such security exceeds the amount of foreign currency it is obligated to deliver.
To the extent that a Fund engages in foreign currency hedging, there can be no assurance that any hedge will be effective or that there will be a hedge in place at any given time.
SWAPS, CAPS, COLLARS AND FLOORS
SWAP AGREEMENTS -- A swap is a financial instrument that typically involves the exchange of cash flows between two parties on specified dates (settlement dates), where the cash flows are based on agreed-upon prices, rates, indices, etc. The nominal amount on which the cash flows are calculated is called the notional amount. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors, such as interest rates, foreign currency rates, mortgage securities, corporate borrowing rates, security prices or inflation rates.
Swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of the investments of a Fund and its share price. The performance of swap agreements may be affected by a change in the specific interest rate, currency, or other factors that determine the amounts of payments due to and from the Fund. If a swap agreement calls for payments by the Fund, the Fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. In addition, if the counterparty's creditworthiness declined, the value of a swap agreement would be likely to decline, potentially resulting in losses.
Generally, swap agreements have a fixed maturity date that will be agreed upon by the parties. The agreement can be terminated before the maturity date under certain circumstances, such as default by one of the parties or insolvency, among others, and can be transferred by a party only with the prior written consent of the other party. A Fund may be able to eliminate its exposure under a swap agreement either by assignment or by other disposition, or by entering into an offsetting swap agreement with the same party or a similarly creditworthy party. If the counterparty is unable to meet its obligations under the contract, declares bankruptcy, defaults or becomes insolvent, the Fund may not be able to recover the money it expected to receive under the contract.
A swap agreement can be a form of leverage, which can magnify a Fund's gains or losses. In order to reduce the risk associated with leveraging, the Fund may cover its current obligations under swap agreements according to guidelines established by the SEC. If the Fund enters into a swap agreement on a net basis, it will segregate assets with a daily value at least equal to the excess, if any, of the Fund's accrued obligations under the swap agreement over the accrued amount the Fund is entitled to receive under the agreement. If the Fund enters into a swap agreement on other than a net basis, it will segregate assets with a value equal to the full amount of the Fund's accrued obligations under the agreement.
O TOTAL RETURN SWAPS
Total return swaps are contracts in which one party agrees to make payments of the total return from the underlying asset during the specified period, in return for payments equal to a fixed or floating rate of interest or the total return from another underlying asset. The total return includes appreciation or depreciation on the underlying asset, plus any interest or dividend payments. Payments under the swap are based upon an agreed upon principal amount but since the principal amount is not exchanged, it represents neither an asset nor a liability to either counterparty, and is referred to as notional. Total return swaps are marked to market daily using different sources, including quotations from counterparties, pricing services, brokers or market makers. The unrealized appreciation (depreciation) related to the change in the valuation of the notional amount of the swap is combined with the amount due to a Fund at termination or settlement. The primary risks associated with total returns swaps are credit risks (if the counterparty fails to meet its obligations) and market risk (if there is no liquid market for the agreement or unfavorable changes occur to the underlying asset).
O EQUITY SWAPS
In a typical equity swap, one party agrees to pay another party the return on a stock, stock index or basket of stocks in return for a specified interest rate. By entering into an equity index swap, for example, the index receiver can gain exposure to stocks making up the index of securities without actually purchasing those stocks. Equity index swaps involve not only the risk associated with investment in the securities represented in the index, but also the risk that the performance of such securities, including dividends, will not exceed the return on the interest rate that a Fund will be committed to pay.
O INTEREST RATE SWAPS
Interest rate swaps are financial instruments that involve the exchange of one type of interest rate for another type of interest rate cash flow on specified dates in the future. Some of the different types of interest rate swaps are "fixed-for floating rate swaps," "termed basis swaps" and "index amortizing swaps." Fixed-for floating rate swaps involve the exchange of fixed interest rate cash flows for floating rate cash flows. Termed basis swaps entail cash flows to both parties based on floating interest rates, where the interest rate indices are different. Index amortizing swaps are typically fixed-for floating swaps where the notional amount changes if certain conditions are met.
Like a traditional investment in a debt security, a Fund could lose money by investing in an interest rate swap if interest rates change adversely. For example, if a Fund enters into a swap where it agrees to exchange a floating rate of interest for a fixed rate of interest, the Fund may have to pay more money than it receives. Similarly, if a Fund enters into a swap where it agrees to exchange a fixed rate of interest for a floating rate of interest, the Fund may receive less money than it has agreed to pay.
O CURRENCY SWAPS
A currency swap is an agreement between two parties in which one party agrees to make interest rate payments in one currency and the other promises to make interest rate payments in another currency. A Fund may enter into a currency swap when it has one currency and desires a different currency. Typically the interest rates that determine the currency swap payments are fixed, although occasionally one or both parties may pay a floating rate of interest. Unlike an interest rate swap, however, the principal amounts are exchanged at the beginning of the contract and returned at the end of the contract. Changes in foreign exchange rates and changes in interest rates, as described above may negatively affect currency swaps.
CAPS, COLLARS AND FLOORS -- Caps and floors have an effect similar to buying or writing options. In a typical cap or floor agreement, one party agrees to make payments only under specified circumstances, usually in return for payment of a fee by the other party. For example, the buyer of an interest rate cap obtains the right to receive payments to the extent that a specified interest rate exceeds an agreed-upon level. The seller of an interest rate floor is obligated to make payments to the extent that a specified interest rate falls below an agreed-upon level. An interest rate collar combines elements of buying a cap and selling a floor.
RISKS OF DERIVATIVES:
While transactions in derivatives may reduce certain risks, these transactions themselves entail certain other risks. For example, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in a poorer overall performance of a Fund than if it had not entered into any derivatives transactions. Derivatives may magnify a Fund's gains or losses, causing it to make or lose substantially more than it invested.
When used for hedging purposes, increases in the value of the securities a Fund holds or intends to acquire should offset any losses incurred with a derivative. Purchasing derivatives for purposes other than hedging could expose a Fund to greater risks.
CORRELATION OF PRICES -- A Fund's ability to hedge its securities through derivatives depends on the degree to which price movements in the underlying index or instrument correlate with price movements in the relevant securities. In the case of poor correlation, the price of the securities the Fund is hedging may not move in the same amount, or even in the same direction as the hedging instrument. Each Fund's investment managers will try to minimize this risk by investing only in those contracts whose behavior it expects to resemble with the portfolio securities it is trying to hedge. However, if a Fund's prediction of interest and currency rates, market value, volatility or other economic factors is incorrect, the Fund may lose money, or may not make as much money as it expected.
Derivative prices can diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the characteristics of the underlying instruments are very similar to the derivative. Listed below are some of the factors that may cause such a divergence:
o current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract;
o a difference between the derivatives and securities markets, including different levels of demand, how the instruments are traded, the imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading of an instrument stops; and
o differences between the derivatives, such as different margin requirements, different liquidity of such markets and the participation of speculators in such markets.
Derivatives based upon a narrower index of securities, such as those of a particular industry group, may present greater risk than derivatives based on a broad market index. Since narrower indices are made up of a smaller number of securities, they are more susceptible to rapid and extreme price fluctuations because of changes in the value of those securities.
While currency futures and options values are expected to correlate with exchange rates, they may not reflect other factors that affect the value of the investments of a Fund. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a yen-denominated security from a decline in the yen, but will not protect a Fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of a Fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of a Fund's investments precisely over time.
LACK OF LIQUIDITY -- Before a futures contract or option is exercised or expires, a Fund can terminate it only by entering into a closing purchase or sale transaction. Moreover, a Fund may close out a futures contract only on the exchange the contract was initially traded. If there is no secondary market for the contract, or the market is illiquid, a Fund may not be able to close out its position. In an illiquid market, a Fund may:
o have to sell securities to meet its daily margin requirements at a time when it is disadvantageous to do so;
o have to purchase or sell the instrument underlying the contract;
o not be able to hedge its investments; and
o not be able to realize profits or limit its losses.
Derivatives may become illiquid (I.E., difficult to sell at a desired time and price) under a variety of market conditions. For example:
o an exchange may suspend or limit trading in a particular derivative instrument, an entire category of derivatives or all derivatives, which sometimes occurs because of increased market volatility;
o unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations of an exchange;
o the facilities of the exchange may not be adequate to handle current trading volume;
o equipment failures, government intervention, insolvency of a brokerage firm or clearing house or other occurrences may disrupt normal trading activity; or
o investors may lose interest in a particular derivative or category of derivatives.
MANAGEMENT RISK -- If each Fund's investment managers incorrectly predict stock market and interest rate trends, the Funds may lose money by investing in derivatives. For example, if a Fund were to write a call option based on each Fund's investment managers expectation that the price of the underlying security would fall, but the price were to rise instead, the Fund could be required to sell the security upon exercise at a price below the current market price. Similarly, if a Fund were to write a put option based on each Fund's investment managers expectation that the price of the underlying security would rise, but the price were to fall instead, the Fund could be required to purchase the security upon exercise at a price higher than the current market price.
PRICING RISK -- At times, market conditions might make it hard to value some investments. For example, if a Fund has valued its securities too high, you may end up paying too much for Fund shares when you buy into the Fund. If a Fund underestimates its price, you may not receive the full market value for your Fund shares when you sell.
MARGIN -- Because of the low margin deposits required upon the opening of a derivative position, such transactions involve an extremely high degree of leverage. Consequently, a relatively small price movement in a derivative may result in an immediate and substantial loss (as well as gain) to a Fund and it may lose more than it originally invested in the derivative.
If the price of a futures contract changes adversely, a Fund may have to sell securities at a time when it is disadvantageous to do so to meet its minimum daily margin requirement. A Fund may lose its margin deposits if a broker with whom it has an open futures contract or related option becomes insolvent or declares bankruptcy.
VOLATILITY AND LEVERAGE -- The prices of derivatives are volatile (i.e., they may change rapidly, substantially and unpredictably) and are influenced by a variety of factors, including:
o actual and anticipated changes in interest rates;
o fiscal and monetary policies; and
o national and international political events.
Most exchanges limit the amount by which the price of a derivative can change during a single trading day. Daily trading limits establish the maximum amount that the price of a derivative may vary from the settlement price of that derivative at the end of trading on the previous day. Once the price of a derivative reaches this value, a Fund may not trade that derivative at a price beyond that limit. The daily limit governs only price movements during a given day and does not limit potential gains or losses. Derivative prices have occasionally moved to the daily limit for several consecutive trading days, preventing prompt liquidation of the derivative.
Because of the low margin deposits required upon the opening of a derivative position, such transactions involve an extremely high degree of leverage. Consequently, a relatively small price
movement in a derivative may result in an immediate and substantial loss (as well as gain) to a Fund and it may lose more than it originally invested in the derivative.
If the price of a futures contract changes adversely, a Fund may have to sell securities at a time when it is disadvantageous to do so to meet its minimum daily margin requirement. A Fund may lose its margin deposits if a broker-dealer with whom it has an open futures contract or related option becomes insolvent or declares bankruptcy.
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS ("ETFS")
The Funds may invest in exchange-traded funds. ETFs may be structured as investment companies that are registered under the 1940 Act, typically as open-end funds or unit investment trusts. These ETFs are generally based on specific domestic and foreign market securities indices. An "index-based ETF" seeks to track the performance of an index by holding in its portfolio either the contents of the index or a representative sample of the securities in the index. Alternatively, ETFs may be structured as grantor trusts or other forms of pooled investment vehicles that are not registered or regulated under the 1940 Act. These ETFs typically hold commodities, precious metals, currency or other non-securities investments. The Funds will only invest in these ETFs in a manner consistent with the satisfaction of the qualifying income requirements under requirements under Subchapter M of the Code. ETFs, like mutual funds, have expenses associated with their operation, such as advisory and custody fees. When a Fund invests in an ETF, in addition to directly bearing expenses associated with its own operations, including the brokerage costs associated with the purchase and sale of shares of the ETF, the Fund will bear a pro rata portion of the ETF's expenses. In addition, it may be more costly to own an ETF than to directly own the securities or other investments held by the ETF because of ETF expenses. The risks of owning shares of an ETF generally reflect the risks of owning the underlying securities or other investments held by the ETF, although lack of liquidity in the market for the shares of an ETF could result in the ETF's value being more volatile than the underlying securities or other investments.
INVESTMENT COMPANY SHARES
The Fund may invest in shares of other investment companies, to the extent permitted by applicable law and subject to certain restrictions. These investment companies typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by the Fund. The Fund's purchase of such investment company securities results in the layering of expenses, such that shareholders would indirectly bear a proportionate share of the operating expenses of such investment companies, including advisory fees, in addition to paying the Fund's expenses. Unless an exception is available, Section 12(d)(1)(A) of the 1940 Act prohibits a fund from (i) acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any one investment company, (ii) investing more than 5% of its total assets in any one investment company, and (iii) investing more than 10% of its total assets in all investment companies combined, including its ETF investments.
For hedging or other purposes, the Fund may invest in investment companies that seek to track the composition and/or performance of specific indexes or portions of specific indexes. Certain of these investment companies, known as exchange-traded funds, are traded on a securities exchange. (See "Exchange Traded Funds" above). The market prices of index-based investments will fluctuate in accordance with changes in the underlying portfolio securities of the investment company and also due to supply and demand of the investment company's shares on the exchange upon which the shares are traded. Index-based investments may not replicate or
otherwise match the composition or performance of their specified index due to transaction costs, among other things.
Pursuant to orders issued by the SEC to each of certain iShares, Market Vectors, Vanguard, ProShares, PowerShares, Claymore, Direxion, Wisdom Tree, Rydex, First Trust and SPDR exchange-traded funds (collectively, the "ETFs") and procedures approved by the Board, the Funds may invest in the ETFs in excess of the 3% limit described above, provided that the Funds otherwise comply with the conditions of the SEC order, as it may be amended, and any other applicable investment limitations. Neither the ETFs nor their investment advisers make any representations regarding the advisability of investing in the ETFs.
MONEY MARKET SECURITIES
Money market securities include short-term U.S. government securities; custodial receipts evidencing separately traded interest and principal components of securities issued by the U.S. Treasury; commercial paper rated in the highest short-term rating category by a nationally recognized statistical ratings organization ("NRSRO"), such as Standard & Poor's or Moody's, or determined by each Fund's investment managers to be of comparable quality at the time of purchase; short-term bank obligations (certificates of deposit, time deposits and bankers' acceptances) of U.S. commercial banks with assets of at least $1 billion as of the end of their most recent fiscal year; and repurchase agreements involving such securities. Each of these money market securities are described below. For a description of ratings, see "Appendix A --Ratings" to this SAI.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
The Funds may enter into repurchase agreements with financial institutions. A repurchase agreement is an agreement under which a fund acquires a fixed income security (generally a security issued by the U.S. government or an agency thereof, a banker's acceptance, or a certificate of deposit) from a commercial bank, broker, or dealer, and simultaneously agrees to resell such security to the seller at an agreed upon price and date (normally, the next business day). Because the security purchased constitutes collateral for the repurchase obligation, a repurchase agreement may be considered a loan that is collateralized by the security purchased. The Funds follow certain procedures designed to minimize the risks inherent in such agreements. These procedures include effecting repurchase transactions only with creditworthy financial institutions whose condition will be continually monitored by each Fund's investment managers. The repurchase agreements entered into by the Funds will provide that the underlying collateral at all times shall have a value at least equal to 102% of the resale price stated in the agreement and consist only of securities permissible under Section 101(47)(A)(i) of the Bankruptcy Code (the Adviser monitors compliance with this requirement). Under all repurchase agreements entered into by the Funds, the custodian or its agent must take possession of the underlying collateral. In the event of a default or bankruptcy by a selling financial institution, the Funds will seek to liquidate such collateral. However, the exercising of the Funds' right to liquidate such collateral could involve certain costs or delays and, to the extent that proceeds from any sale upon a default of the obligation to repurchase were less than the repurchase price, a Fund could suffer a loss. It is the current policy of the Funds, not to invest in repurchase agreements that do not mature within seven days if any such investment, together with any other illiquid assets held by that Fund, amounts to more than 15% of the Fund's total assets. The investments of the Funds in repurchase agreements, at times, may be substantial when, in the view of each Fund's investment managers, liquidity or other considerations so warrant.
SECURITIES LENDING
The Funds may lend portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other financial organizations that meet capital and other credit requirements or other criteria established by the Funds' Board of Trustees. These loans, if and when made, may not exceed 33 1/3% of the total asset value of a Fund (including the loan collateral). The Funds will not lend portfolio securities to their Adviser, Sub-Adviser or their affiliates unless permissible under the 1940 Act and the rules and promulgations thereunder. Loans of portfolio securities will be fully collateralized by cash, letters of credit or U.S. government securities, and the collateral will be maintained in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities by marking to market daily. Any gain or loss in the market price of the securities loaned that might occur during the term of the loan would be for the account of the Funds.
The Funds may pay a part of the interest earned from the investment of collateral, or other fee, to an unaffiliated third party for acting as the Funds' securities lending agent.
By lending its securities, a Fund may increase its income by receiving payments from the borrower that reflect the amount of any interest or any dividends payable on the loaned securities as well as by either investing cash collateral received from the borrower in short-term instruments or obtaining a fee from the borrower when U.S. government securities or letters of credit are used as collateral. The Funds will adhere to the following conditions whenever its portfolio securities are loaned: (i) the Fund must receive at least 100% cash collateral or equivalent securities of the type discussed in the preceding paragraph from the borrower; (ii) the borrower must increase such collateral whenever the market value of the securities rises above the level of such collateral; (iii) the Fund must be able to terminate the loan on demand; (iv) the Fund must receive reasonable interest on the loan, as well as any dividends, interest or other distributions on the loaned securities and any increase in market value; (v) the Fund may pay only reasonable fees in connection with the loan (which fees may include fees payable to the lending agent, the borrower, the Fund's administrator and the custodian); and (vi) voting rights on the loaned securities may pass to the borrower, provided, however, that if a material event adversely affecting the investment occurs, the Fund must terminate the loan and regain the right to vote the securities. The Board has adopted procedures reasonably designed to ensure that the foregoing criteria will be met. Loan agreements involve certain risks in the event of default or insolvency of the borrower, including possible delays or restrictions upon a Fund's ability to recover the loaned securities or dispose of the collateral for the loan, which could give rise to loss because of adverse market action, expenses and/or delays in connection with the disposition of the underlying securities.
ILLIQUID SECURITIES
Illiquid securities are securities that cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business (within seven days) at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Because of their illiquid nature, illiquid securities must be priced at fair value as determined in good faith pursuant to procedures approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees. Despite such good faith efforts to determine fair value prices, a Fund's illiquid securities are subject to the risk that the security's fair value price may differ from the actual price which the Fund may ultimately realize upon their sale or disposition. Difficulty in selling illiquid securities may result in a loss or may be costly to the Fund. Under the supervision of the Trust's Board of Trustees, each Fund's investment managers determine the liquidity of the Funds' investments. In determining the liquidity of the Funds' investments, each Fund's investment managers may consider various factors, including (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations, (2) the number of
dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security). A Fund will not invest more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities.
RESTRICTED SECURITIES
Restricted securities are securities that may not be sold freely to the public
absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
"1933 Act") or an exemption from registration. As consistent with each Fund's
investment objectives, the Funds may invest in Section 4(2) commercial paper.
Section 4(2) commercial paper is issued in reliance on an exemption from
registration under Section 4(2) of the Act and is generally sold to
institutional investors who purchase for investment. Any resale of such
commercial paper must be in an exempt transaction, usually to an institutional
investor through the issuer or investment dealers who make a market in such
commercial paper. The Trust believes that Section 4(2) commercial paper is
liquid to the extent it meets the criteria established by the Board of Trustees
of the Trust. The Trust intends to treat such commercial paper as liquid and
not subject to the investment limitations applicable to illiquid securities or
restricted securities.
SHORT SALES
As consistent with each Fund's investment objectives, the Funds may engage in short sales that are either "uncovered" or "against the box." A short sale is "against the box" if at all times during which the short position is open, the Fund owns at least an equal amount of the securities or securities convertible into, or exchangeable without further consideration for, securities of the same issue as the securities that are sold short. A short sale against the box is a taxable transaction to the Funds with respect to the securities that are sold short.
Uncovered short sales are transactions under which a Fund sells a security it does not own. To complete such a transaction, the Fund must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund then is obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing the security at the market price at the time of the replacement. The price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the security was sold by the Fund. Until the security is replaced, the Fund is required to pay the lender amounts equal to any dividends or interest that accrue during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the Fund also may be required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the security sold. The proceeds of the short sale will be retained by the broker, to the extent necessary to meet margin requirements, until the short position is closed out.
Until the Fund closes its short position or replaces the borrowed security, the Fund will: (a) maintain a segregated account containing cash or liquid securities at such a level that (i) the amount deposited in the account plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will equal the current value of the security sold short; and (ii) the amount deposited in the segregated account plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will not be less than the market value of the security at the time the security was sold short, or (b) otherwise cover the Fund's short position.
INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
FUNDAMENTAL POLICIES
The following investment limitations are fundamental policies of the Funds that cannot be changed without the consent of the holders of a majority of a Fund's outstanding shares. The phrase "majority of the outstanding shares" means the vote of (i) 67% or more of a Fund's shares present at a meeting, if more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of a Fund's outstanding shares, whichever is less.
Each Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities of an issuer that would cause the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification requirement for a diversified management company under the 1940 Act, the rules or regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
2. Concentrate investments in a particular industry or group of industries, as concentration is defined under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
3. Borrow money or issue senior securities (as defined under the 1940 Act), except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
4. Make loans, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
5. Purchase or sell commodities or real estate, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
6. Underwrite securities issued by other persons, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
Further,
7. The Frost Municipal Bond Fund may not change its investment strategy to invest at least 80% of its net assets in municipal securities that generate income exempt from federal income tax, but not necessarily the federal alternative minimum tax.
8. The Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund may not change its investment strategy to invest at least 80% of its net assets in municipal securities that generate income exempt from federal income tax, but not necessarily the federal alternative minimum tax.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL POLICIES
In addition to each Fund's investment objective(s), the following investment limitations of each Fund are non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trust's Board of Trustees without shareholder approval. These non-fundamental policies are based upon the regulations currently set forth in the 1940 Act.
Each Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities of any issuer (except securities of other investment companies, securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements involving such securities) if, as a result, more than 5% of the total assets of a Fund would be invested in the securities of such issuer; or acquire more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer. This restriction applies to 75% of a Fund's total assets.
2. Purchase any securities which would cause 25% or more of the total assets of a Fund to be invested in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry, provided that this limitation does not apply to investments in obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements involving such securities. For purposes of this limitation, (i) utility companies will be classified according to their services, for example, gas distribution, gas transmission, electric and telephone will each be considered a separate industry; and (ii) financial service companies will be classified according to the end users of their services, for example, automobile finance, bank finance and diversified finance will each be considered a separate industry.
3. Borrow money in an amount exceeding 33 1/3% of the value of its total assets, provided that, for purposes of this limitation, investment strategies that either obligate the Fund to purchase securities or require the Fund to segregate assets are not considered to be borrowing. Asset coverage of at least 300% is required for all borrowing, except where the Fund has borrowed money for temporary purposes in an amount not exceeding 5% of its total assets.
4. Make loans if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, except that the Fund may (i) purchase or hold debt instruments in accordance with its investment objective and policies; (ii) enter into repurchase agreements; and (iii) lend its securities.
5. Purchase or sell real estate, real estate limited partnership interests, physical commodities or commodities contracts except that a Fund may purchase (i) marketable securities issued by companies which own or invest in real estate (including real estate investment trusts), commodities or commodities contracts; and (ii) commodities contracts relating to financial instruments, such as financial futures contracts and options on such contracts.
6. Invest in illiquid securities in an amount exceeding, in the aggregate, 15% of the Fund's net assets.
Further,
7. The Frost Low Duration Bond Fund and the Frost Total Return Bond Fund may not change their investment strategies to invest at least 80% of their net assets in fixed income securities without 60 days' prior written notice to shareholders.
8. The Frost Core Growth Equity Fund, the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund may not change their investment strategies to invest at least 80% of their net assets in equity securities without 60 days' prior written notice to shareholders.
9. The Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund may not change its investment strategy to invest at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of companies that pay or are expected to pay dividends without 60 days' prior written notice to shareholders.
10. The Frost Small Cap Equity Fund may not change its investment strategies to invest at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of small capitalization companies at the time of initial purchase without 60 days' prior written notice to shareholders.
11. The Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund may not change its investment strategy to invest at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of small/mid capitalization companies at the time of initial purchase without 60 days' prior written notice to shareholders.
12. The Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund may not change its investment strategy to invest at least 80% of its net assets in full faith and credit U.S. Treasury obligations without 60 days' prior written notice to shareholders.
13. The Frost International Equity Fund may not change its investment strategy to invest at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of non-U.S. issuers without 60 days' prior written notice to shareholders.
Except with respect to Funds' policies concerning borrowing and illiquid securities, if a percentage restriction is adhered to at the time of an investment, a later increase or decrease in percentage resulting from changes in values or assets will not constitute a violation of such restriction. With respect to the limitation on illiquid securities, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause a Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of illiquid instruments back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable. With respect to the limitation on borrowing, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause a Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of borrowing back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable.
THE ADVISER AND SUB-ADVISERS
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC (the "Adviser" or "Frost"), an affiliate of The Frost National Bank, is a professional investment management firm registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The Adviser, a Delaware limited liability company, was established in December of 2007 and offers investment management services for institutions and
retail clients. The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 100 West Houston Street, 15th Floor, San Antonio, Texas 78205. The Adviser is a subsidiary of The Frost National Bank, a national bank. The Frost National Bank is a subsidiary of Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc., a Texas Corporation.
The Adviser has delegated the authority to manage the following Funds (the "Sub-Advised Funds") to various sub-advisers as follows (each a "Sub-Adviser" and collectively, the "Sub-Advisers"):
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND SUB-ADVISER --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost International Equity Fund Thornburg Investment Management, Inc. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund Kempner Capital Management, Inc. and Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Small Cap Equity Fund Cambiar Investors LLC and Artio Global Management LLC --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost Luther King Capital Management LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund Corporation --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
The Adviser monitors the Sub-Advisers to ensure their compliance with the investment policies and guidelines of the Sub-Advised Funds and monitors the Sub-Advisers' adherence to their investment style. The Adviser pays the Sub-Advisers out of the advisory fee it receives from the Sub-Advised Funds. The Trust's Board of Trustees (the "Board") supervises the Adviser and the Sub-Advisers and establishes policies that the Adviser and Sub-Advisers must follow in their management activities.
ADVISORY AGREEMENT WITH THE TRUST. The Trust and the Adviser have entered into an investment advisory agreement dated May 5, 2008, as amended (the "Advisory Agreement"). Under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser serves as the investment adviser and makes the investment decisions for each of the Funds and continuously reviews, supervises and administers the investment program of each Fund, subject to the supervision of, and policies established by, the Trustees of the Trust. After the initial two-year term, the continuance of the Advisory Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Advisory Agreement or "interested persons" of any party thereto, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Advisory Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment, and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or, with respect to any Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of that Fund, on not less than 30 days' nor more than 60 days' written notice to the Adviser, or by the Adviser on 90 days' written notice to the Trust. The Advisory Agreement provides that the Adviser shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of misfeasance or negligence generally in the performance of its duties hereunder or its negligent disregard of its obligation and duties thereunder.
ADVISORY FEES PAID TO THE ADVISER. For its services, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at the following annual rates set forth in the table below based on the average daily net assets of each Fund. For its services under the sub-advisory agreements, each Sub-Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, by the Adviser. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its investment advisory fees for certain Funds as set forth below (the "Voluntary Fee Reduction"). In addition, the Adviser has voluntarily agreed to further reduce its fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to keep total annual fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, acquired fund fees and
expenses and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding certain levels as set forth below (the "Expense Limitation"). The Adviser may discontinue all or part of these fee reductions or reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual fund operating expenses and the expense limitation set forth below to recapture all or a portion of its prior reductions or reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period during which the agreement was in place. The Adviser, however, will not be permitted to recapture the amount of any difference that is attributable to the Voluntary Fee Reduction. The table below shows the rate of each Fund's investment advisory fee before the Voluntary Fee Reduction, the amount of the Adviser's Voluntary Fee Reduction with respect to each Fund and the investment advisory fee after the Voluntary Fee Reduction and the Adviser's Expense Limitation for each Fund.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ADVISORY FEE ADVISER'S EXPENSE EXPENSE BEFORE VOLUNTARY ADVISORY FEE LIMITATIONS LIMITATIONS VOLUNTARY FEE FEE AFTER FEE (INSTITUTIONAL (CLASS A FUND REDUCTION REDUCTION REDUCTION CLASS SHARES) SHARES) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Core Growth Equity Fund 0.80% 0.15% 0.65% 1.25% 1.50% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund 0.80% 0.15% 0.65% 1.25% 1.50% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi- Cap Deep Value Equity Fund 0.59% None 0.59% 1.05% 1.30% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1.00% for assets up 1.00% for assets to $100 million up to $100 million Frost Small Cap 0.85% for assets 0.85% for assets Equity Fund over $100 million None over $100 million 1.55% 1.80% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.95% for assets up 0.95% for assets to $150 million up to $150 million Frost International 0.90% for assets 0.90% for assets Equity Fund over $150 million None over $150 million 1.45% 1.70% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Bond Fund 0.50% 0.15%(1) 0.35% 0.95% 1.20% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Total Return Bond Fund 0.50% 0.15%(2) 0.35% 0.95% 1.20% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Municipal Bond Fund 0.50% 0.10% 0.40% 1.05% 1.30% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund 0.50% 0.20% 0.30% 1.15% 1.40% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund 0.35% None 0.35% 1.05% 1.30% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund 0.75% None 0.75% 1.35% 1.60% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Small- Mid Cap Equity Fund 0.90% None 0.90% 1.55% 1.80% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Strategic Balanced Fund 0.70% 0.05% 0.65% 1.35% 1.60% --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Prior to November 30, 2009, the Adviser voluntarily agreed to reduce its Investment Advisory Fee for the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund by 0.20%.
(2) Prior to November 30, 2009, the Adviser voluntarily agreed to reduce its Investment Advisory Fee for the Frost Total Return Bond Fund by 0.10%.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Funds paid the Adviser the following advisory fees:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TOTAL FEES PAID CONTRACTUAL FEES PAID FEES WAIVED BY ADVISER (AFTER WAIVERS) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Core Growth Equity Fund $489,122 $1,615,936 $XX $(91,711) $302,990 $XX $397,411 $1,312,946 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund $324,251 $1,162,168 $XX $(60,798) $217,908 $XX $263,453 $944,260 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Strategic Balanced Fund $18,830 $148,971 $XX $(12,004) $10,952 $XX $6,826 $138,019 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund $269,833 $813,924 $XX $0 $0 $XX $269,833 $813,924 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Small Cap Equity Fund $191,475 $803,611 $XX $0 $0 $XX $191,475 $803,611 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost International Equity Fund $651,259 $1,655,920 $XX $0 $0 $XX $651,259 $1,655,920 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Bond Fund $161,088 $663,007 $XX $(64,435) $265,205 $XX $96,653 $397,802 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Total Return Bond Fund $276,972 $1,251,874 $XX $(55,394) $250,372 $XX $221,578 $1,001,502 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Municipal Bond Fund $163,413 $661,209 $XX $(32,682) $132,240 $XX $130,731 $528,969 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund $62,498 $265,976 $XX $(24,999) $106,391 $XX $37,499 $159,585 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund $21,195 $86,130 $XX $0 $0 $XX $21,195 $86,130 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund $37,707 $83,217 $XX $(5,810) $1,062 $XX $31,897 $82,155 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund $23,105 $93,164 $XX $(15,166) $8,309 $XX $7,939 $84,855 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISERS
FROST INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
Thornburg Investment Management, Inc. ("Thornburg"), a Delaware corporation established in 1982, serves as the sub-adviser to the Frost International Equity Fund. Thornburg's principal place of business is located at 2300 North Ridgetop Road, Santa Fe, NM 87506. As of September 30, 2010, Thornburg had approximately $XX billion in assets under management. Thornburg is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost International Equity Fund's investments.
FROST KEMPNER MULTI-CAP DEEP VALUE EQUITY FUND AND FROST KEMPNER TREASURY AND INCOME FUND
Kempner Capital Management, Inc. ("KCM"), a Texas corporation established in 1982, serves as the sub-adviser to the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund. KCM's principal place of business is located at 2201 Market Street, 12th Floor FNB Building, Galveston, Texas, 77550-1503. As of September 30, 2009, KCM had approximately $411.2 million in assets under management. KCM is responsible for the day-today management of the Value Fund's and Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund's investments.
FROST SMALL CAP EQUITY FUND
Cambiar Investors LLC (or "Cambiar"), a Delaware limited liability company, serves as the sub-adviser for the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund. Cambiar Investors LLC's principal place of business is located at 2401 East Second Avenue, Suite 500, Denver, Colorado 80206. As of September 30, 2010, Cambiar had approximately $XX billion in assets under management. Cambiar is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund's investments.
Artio Global Management LLC (or "Artio"), a Delaware limited liability company, serves as the sub-adviser for the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund. Artio Global Management LLC's principal place of business is located at 330 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10017. As of September 30, 2010, Artio had approximately $XX billion in assets under management. Artio is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund's investments.
FROST LKCM MULTI-CAP EQUITY FUND AND FROST LKCM SMALL-MID CAP EQUITY FUND
Luther King Capital Management Corporation ("LKCM"), a Delaware corporation established in 1979, serves as the sub-adviser to the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund. LKCM's principal place of business is located at 301 Commerce Street, Suite 1600, Fort Worth, Texas, 76102-4140. As of September 30, 2009, LKCM had approximately $6.7 billion in assets under management. LKCM is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund's and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund's investments.
SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENTS. The Adviser and Thornburg, KCM, and LKCM have entered into investment sub-advisory agreements dated April 28, 2008, as amended, Cambiar and Artio have entered into investment sub-advisory agreements dated June 29, 2010 (each, a "Sub-Advisory Agreement" and collectively, the "Sub-Advisory Agreements"). Under each Sub-Advisory Agreement, each Sub-Adviser serves as the investment adviser for the Fund(s) for which it is responsible for the day-to-day management, makes investment decisions for such Fund(s) and administers the investment program of such Fund(s), subject to the supervision of, and policies established by, the Adviser and the Board. After the initial two-year term, the continuance of each Sub-Advisory Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually: (i) by the vote of the
Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Sub-Advisory Agreement or "interested persons" of any party thereto, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. A Sub-Advisory Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment, and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Board. The Sub-Advisory Agreements provide that each Sub-Adviser shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of misfeasance or negligence generally in the performance of its duties hereunder or its negligent disregard of its obligation and duties thereunder.
SUB-ADVISORY FEES. For the services provided pursuant to the Sub-Advisory Agreements, each Sub-Adviser receives an annual fee from the Adviser at the following annual rates, based on the average daily net assets of the respective Funds:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND SUB-ADVISORY FEE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund 0.34% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Small Cap Equity Fund Cambiar: 0.62% Artio: 0.70% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost International Equity Fund 0.60% for assets up to $150 million and 0.55% for assets over $150 million -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund 0.25% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund 0.50% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity 0.65% Fund -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
This section includes information about the Funds' portfolio managers, including information about other accounts managed, the dollar range of Fund shares owned and compensation.
COMPENSATION. The Adviser and the Sub-Advisers compensate each Fund's portfolio managers for their management of the Funds. Compensation for the Adviser's portfolio managers includes an annual salary, 401(k) retirement plan and, at the discretion of management, an annual bonus and company-wide profit sharing provided for employees of The Frost National Bank. Each portfolio manager of the Adviser currently named in the prospectuses also may own equity shares in the Frost National Bank, the parent company of the Adviser, either directly or through a 401(k) retirement savings plan or a profit sharing plan. Both the salary and potential bonus are reviewed approximately annually for comparability with salaries of other portfolio managers in the industry, using survey data obtained from compensation consultants. The awarding of a bonus is subjective. Criteria that are considered in formulating a bonus include, but are not limited to, the following: revenues available to pay compensation of the manager and all other expenses related to supporting the accounts managed by the manager, including the manager's specific fund(s); multiple year historical total return of accounts managed by the manager, including the manager's specific fund(s), relative to market performance and similar investment companies; single year historical total return of accounts managed by the manager, including the manager's specific fund(s), relative to market performance and similar investment companies; the degree of sensitivity of the manager to potential tax liabilities created for account holders in generating returns, relative to overall return. There is no material difference in the method used to calculate the manager's compensation with respect to the manager's specific fund(s) and other accounts
managed by the manager, except that certain accounts managed by the manager may have no income or capital gains tax considerations. To the extent that the manager realizes benefits from capital appreciation and dividends paid to shareholders of the manager's specific fund(s), such benefits accrue from the overall financial performance of the manager's specific fund(s).
Thornburg compensates the Frost International Equity Fund's portfolio managers for their management of the Frost International Equity Fund. The compensation for each portfolio manager includes an annual salary, annual bonus and potential ownership interest in Thornburg. Annual bonuses are based on Thornburg's overall success and the portfolio manager's contribution to that success.
KCM compensates the portfolio managers of the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and the Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund for their management of the Funds. The compensation for each portfolio manager includes an annual salary and an annual bonus based on each portfolio's percentage of base salaries.
Cambiar compensates the portfolio managers of the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund for their management of the Fund. The portfolio managers' compensation consists of an industry competitive base salary, discretionary cash bonus, and a profit-sharing contribution at year-end. While Cambiar's investment professionals receive a competitive salary plus a bonus tied to firm and individual performance, contributions are also measured through performance attribution which details individual stock and sector selection as well as overall "value added" for the firm. This would include assistance with product development and client service. Company equity is also available to reward key employees.
The combination of our corporate culture and highly competitive salary/bonus structure is the primary reason for the relatively low turnover of professionals in our firm. Each member is paid a highly competitive base salary with the opportunity to earn an unlimited bonus based upon contribution to the team, organizational profitability and strategy performance. Beyond this structure and our generous benefits package, two programs exist to promote long-term employee commitment and foster coherence of the various entities within the Artio Group. The Artio Global compensation/incentive programs include a long-term retirement plan and an identical long-term stock option incentive plan.
In May 2004, Artio Global took steps to ensure continuity within the business line. The firm initiated a change to the legal structure from a corporation to a limited liability company, which allows key personnel to participate directly in the business. This structure aligns the long-term economic interests of key employees with those of the company as well as provides economic disincentives for key employees to depart.
LKCM compensates the portfolio managers of the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund for their management of the Funds. The compensation for each portfolio manager includes an annual salary and an eligibility to participate in the firm's profit sharing plan/401(k). The majority of compensation is derived from bonuses, which are discretionary and based on individual merit as well as overall success of the firm in any given year.
FUND SHARES OWNED BY PORTFOLIO MANAGERS. The following table shows the dollar amount range of each portfolio manager's "beneficial ownership" of shares of the Funds which he/she manages. Dollar amount ranges disclosed are established by the SEC. "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "1934 Act").
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NAME DOLLAR RANGE OF FUND SHARES OWNED(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FROST -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael R. Brell $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jeffrey Elswick $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C. Murray Fichtner $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ted Harper $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- John Lutz $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom L. Stringfellow $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alan Tarver $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Brad Thompson $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Steven Coker $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Justin Hopkins $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- THORNBURG -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- William Fries $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wendy Trevisani $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lei Wang $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- KCM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Harris L. Kempner, Jr. $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- R. Patrick Rowles $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- M. Shawn Gault $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CAMBIAR -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Brian M. Barish $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ania A. Aldrich $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew P. Baumbusch $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Timothy A. Beranek $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maria L. Mendelsberg $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jennifer M. Dunne $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ARTIO -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Samuel A. Dedio $None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LKCM -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- J. Luther King, Jr. $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Steven R. Purvis $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Paul W. Greenwell $XX-$XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Valuation date July 31, 2010.
OTHER ACCOUNTS. In addition to the Funds, certain portfolio managers are responsible for the day-to-day management of certain other accounts, as listed below. Numbers in parentheses (if any) indicate the accounts and the total assets in the accounts for which the advisory fee is based on the performance of the account. The information below is provided as of July 31, 2010.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- REGISTERED INVESTMENT OTHER POOLED INVESTMENT NAME COMPANIES VEHICLES OTHER ACCOUNTS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NUMBER TOTAL NUMBER OF ASSETS OF TOTAL ASSETS NUMBER OF TOTAL ASSETS ACCOUNTS (MILLIONS) ACCOUNTS (MILLIONS) ACCOUNTS (MILLIONS) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FROST ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael R. Brell XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jeffrey Elswick XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- C. Murray Fichtner XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ted Harper XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- John Lutz XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom L. Stringfellow XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Steve Coker XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alan Tarver XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Brad Thompson XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Justin Hopkins XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- THORNBURG ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- William Fries XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Wendy Trevisani XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lei Wang XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- KCM ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Harris L. Kempner, Jr. XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- R. Patrick Rowles XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- M. Shawn Gault XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CAMBIAR ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Brian M. Barish 3 $1,506.4 0 $0 51 $2,004 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ania A. Aldrich 0 $0 0 $0 90 $132.9 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew P. 1 $126.8 0 $0 104 $20.7 Baumbusch ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Timothy A. Beranek 0 $0 0 $0 1 $0.5 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Maria L. 0 $0 0 $0 10,813 $2,282.9 Mendelsberg ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jennifer Dunne 1 $26.2 0 $0 11 $3.1 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ARTIO ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Samuel A. Dedio 5 $182.49 1 $41.94 0 $0 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LKCM XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- J. Luther King, Jr. XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Steven R. Purvis XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Paul W. Greenwell XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
CONFLICTS OF INTERESTS. Each portfolio manager's management of "other accounts" may give rise to potential conflicts of interest in connection with his or her management of the Funds' investments, on the one hand, and the investments of the other accounts, on the other. The other accounts may have the same investment objective as a Fund's. Therefore, a potential conflict of interest may arise as a result of the identical investment objectives, whereby the portfolio manager could favor one account over another. Another potential conflict could include each portfolio manager's knowledge about the size, timing and possible market impact of a Fund's
trade, whereby a portfolio manager could use this information to the advantage of other accounts and to the disadvantage of a Fund. However, the Adviser and each Sub-Adviser have established policies and procedures to ensure that the purchase and sale of securities among all accounts it manages are fairly and equitably allocated.
FROST. Potential conflicts of interest may arise because Frost engages in portfolio management activities for other clients. Frost uses a model portfolio management approach in which all accounts are mirrored to a selected model creating substantially equal treatment in terms of investment strategy and investment opportunity. Frost's trading allocation policy is designed to the best of its ability to ensure that the allocation of trades among its client accounts is done in a manner that is fair and equitable to all clients. When consistent with client objectives, orders are aggregated when possible. If a block trade is filled in different lots with the same broker, where possible, Frost will arrange for these trades to be priced at the average of all of the different lots to ensure that all the account executed at one broker receive the same price.
CAMBIAR. The portfolio managers' management of "other accounts" may give rise to potential conflicts of interest in connection with his or her management of a Fund's investments, on the one hand, and the investments of the other accounts, on the other. The other accounts may have the same investment objective as a Fund. Therefore, a potential conflict of interest may arise as a result of the identical investment objectives, whereby the portfolio manager could favor one account over another. Another potential conflict could include the portfolio manager's knowledge about the size, timing and possible market impact of Fund trades, whereby the portfolio manager could use this information to the advantage of other accounts and to the disadvantage of a Fund.
ARTIO. Generally, Artio Global does not purchase or sell securities for its own account. However, Artio Global may recommend securities to clients for accounts in which Artio Global or its affiliates or related persons may have a beneficial interest (such as seed money in an Artio sponsored fund or mandate). These types of accounts will be managed in a manner similar to other client accounts over which Artio Global has discretion.
Artio Global and its affiliates have personal account trading policies and procedures in place designed to monitor and protect the interests of Artio Global's clients. Artio Global has adopted a Code of Ethics (the "Code") that governs transactions in securities recommended to clients while also providing clear rules concerning personal account trading. For example, employees are prohibited from purchasing or selling the same security as an Artio Global discretionary client for 75 business days before and after a client trade is completed.
The Code is provided to each employee when they are hired, and on an annual basis thereafter. The Legal and Compliance Department also reviews copies of all confirmations and monthly account statements for employees covered under the Code.
THORNBURG. Most investment advisors and their portfolio managers manage
investments for multiple clients, including mutual funds, private accounts, and
retirement plans. In any case where a portfolio or co-portfolio manager manages
the investments of two or more accounts, there is a possibility that conflicts
of interest could arise between the manager's management of the Fund's
investments and the manager's management of other accounts. These conflicts
could include: (i) allocating a favorable investment opportunity to one account
but not another; (ii) directing one account to buy a security before purchases
through other accounts increase the price of the security in the marketplace;
(iii) giving substantially inconsistent investment directions at the same time
to similar accounts, so as to benefit one account over another; and (iv)
obtaining
services from brokers conducting trades for one account, which are used to benefit another account. Thornburg has considered the likelihood that any material conflicts of interest could arise between a manager's management of the Fund's investments and the manager's management of other accounts. Thornburg has not identified any such conflicts that may arise, and has concluded that it has implemented policies and procedures to identify and resolve any such conflict if it did arise.
KCM. Harris L. Kempner, Jr. is one of three members of Kempner Securities GP LLC, which is the general partner for Kempner Securities LP, one of the clients managed by KCM. He also holds a limited partner interest. The Kempner Securities LP portfolio has different investment objectives than KCM's other clients and is disposed to taking greater risks. Some of the same securities purchased for KCM's value equity clients are also purchased for Kempner Securities LP, but much care is taken to ensure no special treatment is given. Stocks are primarily purchased or sold using "good until cancelled" limit orders with rotated order entry.
LKCM. The portfolio managers will be responsible for managing the Funds, other registered investment companies, other separately managed accounts, including employee benefit plans, pension plans, endowments and high-net worth individuals and, with respect to J. Luther King, Jr., certain pooled investment vehicles. These accounts may have investment objectives, strategies and risk profiles that differ from that of the Funds. The portfolio managers will make investment decisions for each portfolio based on its investment objectives and guidelines, policies, practices and other relevant considerations. Consequently, the portfolio managers may purchase or sell securities at the same or different times for one portfolio and not another portfolio (including the Funds), which may affect the performance of such securities across portfolios. The portfolio managers may place securities transactions on behalf of other portfolios that are directly or indirectly contrary to investment decisions made on behalf of the Funds, or make investment decisions that are similar to those made for the Funds, both of which have the potential to adversely impact the Funds depending on market conditions. LKCM's goal is to meet its fiduciary obligations to treat all clients fairly and provide high quality investment services to all its clients. Thus, LKCM has developed a variety of policies and procedures that it believes are reasonably designed to mitigate these conflicts.
THE ADMINISTRATOR
GENERAL. SEI Investments Global Funds Services (the "Administrator"), a Delaware statutory trust, has its principal business offices at One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. SEI Investments Management Corporation ("SIMC"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI Investments Company ("SEI Investments"), is the owner of all beneficial interest in the Administrator. SEI Investments and its subsidiaries and affiliates, including the Administrator, are leading providers of fund valuation services, trust accounting systems, and brokerage and information services to financial institutions, institutional investors, and money managers. The Administrator and its affiliates also serve as administrator or sub-administrator to other mutual funds.
ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT WITH THE TRUST. The Trust and the Administrator have entered into an administration agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12, 2002 (the "Administration Agreement"). Under the Administration Agreement, the Administrator provides the Trust with administrative services, including regulatory reporting and all necessary office space, equipment, personnel and facilities. Pursuant to a schedule to the
Administration Agreement, the Administrator also serves as the shareholder servicing agent for the Funds whereby the Administrator provides certain shareholder services to the Funds.
The Administration Agreement provides that the Administrator shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with the matters to which the Administration Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Administrator in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by it of its duties and obligations thereunder.
ADMINISTRATION FEES PAID TO THE ADMINISTRATOR. The Administrator provides the Trust with administrative services, including regulatory reporting and all necessary office space, equipment, personnel and facilities. For these administrative services, the Administrator is entitled to a fee, which is detailed below in the following schedule:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEE (AS A PERCENTAGE OF AGGREGATE AVERAGE ANNUAL ASSETS) FUNDS' AVERAGE DAILY NET ASSETS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.10% First $2 billion -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.08% $2 billion - $3 billion -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.06% Over $3 billion -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
The initial annual minimum fee will be based upon the number of portfolios launched within the Frost fund complex as of the inception date of the Frost fund complex. The annual minimum fees assume that each portfolio includes up to two classes and are as follows:
o The annual minimum fee for the Frost fund complex shall be $900,000 for the initial 8 funds.
o For each additional fund established after the initial 8 funds in the Frost fund complex, the minimum annual fee for administrative services will be increased by $90,000.
o In the event that a fund is comprised of more than two classes, the Frost fund complex will be subject to an additional annual fee at a rate of $15,000 per class.
For the fiscal period ended July 31, 2008 and the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the Funds paid the Administrator the following administration fees:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONTRACTUAL ADMINISTRATION FEES WAIVED BY FEES PAID ADMINISTRATOR TOTAL FEES PAID (AFTER WAIVERS) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Core Growth Equity Fund $61,140 $201,990 $XX $0 $0 $XX $61,140 $201,990 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund $40,531 $145,270 $XX $0 $0 $XX $40,531 $145,270 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Strategic Balanced Fund $2,690 $21,195 $XX $0 $0 $XX $2,690 $21,195 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund $45,734 $137,951 $XX $0 $0 $XX $45,734 $137,951 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Small Cap Equity Fund $19,147 $80,360 $XX $0 $0 $XX $19,147 $80,360 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost International Equity Fund $70,152 $175,762 $XX $0 $0 $XX $70,152 $175,762 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Bond Fund $32,217 $132,600 $XX $0 $0 $XX $32,217 $132,600 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Total Return Bond Fund $55,394 $250,372 $XX $0 $0 $XX $55,394 $250,372 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Municipal Bond Fund $32,682 $132,240 $XX $0 $0 $XX $32,682 $132,240 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund $12,499 $53,195 $XX $0 $0 $XX $12,499 $53,195 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund $6,056 $24,609 $XX $0 $0 $XX $6,056 $24,609 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund $5,028 $11,095 $XX $0 $0 $XX $5,028 $11,095 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund $2,567 $10,352 $XX $0 $0 $XX $2,567 $10,352 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
THE DISTRIBUTOR
GENERAL. SEI Investments Distribution Co. (the "Distributor"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI, and the Trust are parties to a distribution agreement dated May 31, 2000 ("Distribution Agreement"). The principal business address of the Distributor is One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456.
The continuance of the Distribution Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Distribution Agreement or any related agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Distribution Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act), and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or, with respect to any Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of that Fund, upon not more than 60 days' written notice by either party. The Distribution Agreement provides that the Distributor shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard of its obligations or duties thereunder.
THE DISTRIBUTION PLAN. The Distribution Plan (the "Plan") provides that Class A Shares of each Fund pay the Distributor an annual fee of up to a maximum of 0.25% of the average daily net
assets of the shares. Under the Plan, the Distributor may make payments pursuant to written agreements to financial institutions and intermediaries such as banks, savings and loan associations and insurance companies including, without limit, investment counselors, broker-dealers and the Distributor's affiliates and subsidiaries (collectively, "Agents") as compensation for services and reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with distribution assistance. The Plan is characterized as a compensation plan since the distribution fee will be paid to the Distributor without regard to the distribution expenses incurred by the Distributor or the amount of payments made to other financial institutions and intermediaries. The Trust intends to operate the Plan in accordance with its terms and with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") rules concerning sales charges.
The Trust has adopted the Plan in accordance with the provisions of Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, which regulates circumstances under which an investment company may directly or indirectly bear expenses relating to the distribution of its shares. Continuance of the Plan must be approved annually by a majority of the Trustees of the Trust and by a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the Plan or any agreements related to the Plan ("Qualified Trustees"). The Plan requires that quarterly written reports of amounts spent under the Plan and the purposes of such expenditures be furnished to and reviewed by the Trustees. The Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount that may be spent thereunder without approval by a majority of the outstanding shares of the affected Fund(s). All material amendments of the Plan will require approval by a majority of the Trustees of the Trust and of the Qualified Trustees.
For the fiscal period ended July 31, 2008 and the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the Funds paid the Distributor the following distribution fees:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12B1 FEES PAID 12B-1 FEES RETAINED BY DISTRIBUTOR -------------------------- ---------------------------------- FUND 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Core Growth Equity Fund $8,850 $93,453 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund $2,335 $33,136 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Strategic Balanced Fund 1,469 $14,397 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi- Cap Deep Value Equity Fund $7,493 $62,523 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Small Cap Equity Fund $4,440 $43,952 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost International Equity Fund $9,011 $73,321 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Bond Fund $5,553 $61,065 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Total Return Bond Fund $10,423 $124,405 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Municipal Bond Fund $0 $764 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration $722 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Municipal Bond Fund $0 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund $0 $0 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund $0 $0 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Small- Mid Cap Equity Fund $0 $0 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
DEALER REALLOWANCES. Class A Shares of the Funds are sold subject to a front-end sales charge as described in the Class A Shares prospectus. Selling dealers are normally reallowed 100% of the sales charge by the Distributor. The following table shows the amount of the front-end sales charge that is reallowed to dealers as a percentage of the offering price of Class A Shares.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $50,000 $100,000 $250,000 $500,000 LESS BUT LESS BUT LESS BUT LESS BUT LESS THAN THAN THAN THAN THAN $1,000,000 FUND $50,000 $100,000 $250,000 $500,000 $1,000,000 AND OVER(1) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Core Growth Equity Fund 5.75% 4.75% 3.75% 2.75% 2.00% None ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund 5.75% 4.75% 3.75% 2.75% 2.00% None ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund 5.75% 4.75% 3.75% 2.75% 2.00% None ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Small Cap Fund 5.75% 4.75% 3.75% 2.75% 2.00% None ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost International Equity Fund 5.75% 4.75% 3.75% 2.75% 2.00% None ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund 5.75% 4.75% 3.75% 2.75% 2.00% None ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund 5.75% 4.75% 3.75% 2.75% 2.00% None ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Strategic Balanced Fund 5.75% 4.75% 3.75% 2.75% 2.00% None ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $100,000 $250,000 $500,000 LESS BUT LESS BUT LESS BUT LESS THAN THAN THAN THAN $1,000,000 FUND $100,000 $250,000 $500,000 $1,000,000 AND OVEROVER(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Bond Fund 3.00% 2.75% 2.50% 2.00% None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Total Return Bond Fund 4.50% 3.75% 2.75% 2.00% None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Municipal Bond Fund 4.50% 3.75% 2.75% 2.00% None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund 2.75% 2.50% 2.25% 2.00% None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund 3.00% 2.75% 2.50% 2.00% None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) If you are in a category of investors who may purchase Fund shares without a front-end sales charge, you will be subject to a 1.00% deferred sales charge if you redeem your shares within 12 months of purchase.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
The Adviser, Sub-Advisers and/or their affiliates, at their discretion, may make payments from their own resources and not from Fund assets to affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Funds, their service providers or their respective affiliates, as incentives to help market and promote the Funds and/or in recognition of their distribution, marketing, administrative services, and/or processing support.
These additional payments may be made to financial intermediaries that sell Fund shares or provide services to the Funds, the Distributor or shareholders of the Funds through the financial intermediary's retail distribution channel and/or fund supermarkets. Payments may also be made through the financial intermediary's retirement, qualified tuition, fee-based advisory, wrap fee bank trust, or insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. These payments may include, but are not limited to, placing a Fund in a financial intermediary's retail distribution channel or on a preferred or recommended fund list; providing business or shareholder financial planning assistance; educating financial intermediary personnel about the Funds; providing access to sales and management representatives of the financial intermediary; promoting sales of Fund shares; providing marketing and educational support; maintaining share balances and/or for sub-accounting, administrative or shareholder transaction processing services. A financial intermediary may perform the services itself or may arrange with a third party to perform the services.
The Adviser, Sub-Advisers and/or their affiliates may also make payments from their own resources to financial intermediaries for costs associated with the purchase of products or services used in connection with sales and marketing, participation in and/or presentation at conferences or seminars, sales or training programs, client and investor entertainment and other sponsored events. The costs and expenses associated with these efforts may include travel, lodging, sponsorship at educational seminars and conferences, entertainment and meals to the extent permitted by law.
Revenue sharing payments may be negotiated based on a variety of factors, including the level of sales, the amount of Fund assets attributable to investments in the Fund by financial intermediaries' customers, a flat fee or other measures as determined from time to time by the Adviser, Sub-Advisers and/or their affiliates. A significant purpose of these payments is to increase the sales of Fund shares, which in turn may benefit the Adviser through increased fees as Fund assets grow.
THE TRANSFER AGENT
DST Systems, Inc., 333 W. 11(th) Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105 (the "Transfer Agent"), serves as the Funds' transfer agent.
THE CUSTODIAN
Union Bank, NA 475 Samsone Street, 15(th) Floor, San Francisco, California 94111(the "Custodian"), acts as custodian of the Funds. The Custodian holds cash, securities and other assets of the Funds as required by the 1940 Act.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Ernst & Young LLP, Two Commerce Square, 2001 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, serves as independent registered public accounting firm for the Funds. The financial statements and notes thereto incorporated by reference have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, as indicated in their report with respect thereto, and are incorporated by reference in reliance on the authority of their report as experts in accounting and auditing.
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, 1701 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-2921, serves as legal counsel to the Trust.
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST
BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES. The management and affairs of the Trust and its series, including the Funds described in this SAI, are overseen by the Trustees. The Board has approved contracts, as described above, under which certain companies provide essential management services to the Trust.
Like most mutual funds, the day-to-day business of the Trust, including the management of risk, is performed by third party service providers, such as the Adviser, Distributor and Administrator. The Trustees are responsible for overseeing the Trust's service providers and, thus, have oversight responsibility with respect to risk management performed by those service providers. Risk management seeks to identify and address risks, i.e., events or circumstances that could have material adverse effects on the business, operations, shareholder services, investment performance or reputation of the Funds. The Funds and their service providers employ a variety of processes, procedures and controls to identify various of those possible events or circumstances, to lessen the probability of their occurrence and/or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur. Each service provider is responsible for one or more discrete aspects of the Trust's business (e.g., the Adviser is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio investments) and, consequently, for managing the risks associated with that business. The Board has emphasized to the Funds' service providers the importance of maintaining vigorous risk management.
The Trustees' role in risk oversight begins before the inception of a Fund, at which time certain of the Fund's service providers present the Board with information concerning the investment objectives, strategies and risks of the Fund as well as proposed investment limitations for the Fund. Additionally, the Fund's Adviser provides the Board with an overview of, among other things, its investment philosophy, brokerage practices and compliance infrastructure. Thereafter, the Board continues its oversight function as various personnel, including the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer, as well as personnel of the Adviser and other service providers such as the Fund's independent accountants, make periodic reports to the Audit Committee or to the Board with respect to various aspects of risk management. The Board and the Audit Committee oversee efforts by management and service providers to manage risks to which the Funds may be exposed.
The Board is responsible for overseeing the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Funds by the Adviser and receives information about those services at its regular meetings. In addition, on an annual basis, in connection with its consideration of whether to renew the Advisory Agreement with the Adviser, the Board meets with the Adviser to review such services.
Among other things, the Board regularly considers the Adviser's adherence to the Funds' investment restrictions and compliance with various Fund policies and procedures and with applicable securities regulations. The Board also reviews information about the Funds' investments, including, for example, portfolio holdings schedules and reports on the Adviser's use of derivatives in managing the Funds, if any, as well as reports on the Funds' investments in ETFs, if any.
The Trust's Chief Compliance Officer reports regularly to the Board to review and discuss compliance issues and Fund and Adviser risk assessments. At least annually, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer provides the Board with a report reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Trust's policies and procedures and those of its service providers, including the Adviser. The report addresses the operation of the policies and procedures of the Trust and each service provider since the date of the last report; any material changes to the policies and procedures since the date of the last report; any recommendations for material changes to the policies and procedures; and any material compliance matters since the date of the last report.
The Board receives reports from the Funds' service providers regarding operational risks and risks related to the valuation and liquidity of portfolio securities. The Trust's Fair Value Pricing Committee makes regular reports to the Board concerning investments for which market quotations are not readily available. Annually, the independent registered public accounting firm reviews with the Audit Committee its audit of the Funds' financial statements, focusing on major areas of risk encountered by the Funds and noting any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the Funds' internal controls. Additionally, in connection with its oversight function, the Board oversees Fund management's implementation of disclosure controls and procedures, which are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Trust in its periodic reports with the SEC are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the required time periods. The Board also oversees the Trust's internal controls over financial reporting, which comprise policies and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of the Trust's financial reporting and the preparation of the Trust's financial statements.
From their review of these reports and discussions with the Adviser, the Chief Compliance Officer, the independent registered public accounting firm and other service providers, the Board and the Audit Committee learn in detail about the material risks of the Funds, thereby facilitating a dialogue about how management and service providers identify and mitigate those risks.
The Board recognizes that not all risks that may affect the Funds can be
identified and/or quantified, that it may not be practical or cost-effective to
eliminate or mitigate certain risks, that it may be necessary to bear certain
risks (such as investment-related risks) to achieve the Funds' goals, and that
the processes, procedures and controls employed to address certain risks may be
limited in their effectiveness. Moreover, reports received by the Trustees as
to risk management matters are typically summaries of the relevant information.
Most of the Funds' investment management and business affairs are carried out
by or through the Funds' Adviser and other service providers each of which has
an independent interest in risk management but whose policies and the methods
by which one or more risk management functions are carried out may differ from
the Funds' and each other's in the setting of priorities, the resources
available or the effectiveness of relevant controls. As a result of the
foregoing and other factors, the Board's ability to monitor and manage risk, as
a practical matter, is subject to limitations.
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD. There are eight members of the Board of Trustees, six of whom are not interested persons of the Trust, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act ("independent Trustees").
Robert Nesher, an interested person of the Trust, serves as Chairman of the Board. George Sullivan, an independent Trustee, serves as the lead independent Trustee. The Trust has determined its leadership structure is appropriate given the specific characteristics and circumstances of the Trust. The Trust made this determination in consideration of, among other things, the fact that the independent Trustees constitute a super-majority (75%) of the Board, the fact that the chairperson of each Committee of the Board is an independent Trustee, the amount of assets under management in the Trust, and the number of Funds (and classes of shares) overseen by the Board. The Board also believes that its leadership structure facilitates the orderly and efficient flow of information to the independent Trustees from Fund management.
The Board of Trustees has three standing committees: the Audit Committee, Governance Committee and Fair Value Pricing Committee. The Audit Committee and Governance Committee are chaired by an independent Trustee and composed of all of the independent Trustees. In addition, the Board of Trustees has a lead independent Trustee.
In his role as lead independent Trustee, Mr. Sullivan, among other things:
presides over board meetings in the absence of the Chairman of the Board;
presides over executive sessions of the independent Trustees; along with the
Chairman of the Board, oversees the development of agendas for Board meetings;
facilitates communication between the independent Trustees and management, and
among the independent Trustees; serves as a key point person for dealings
between the independent Trustees and management; and has such other
responsibilities as the Board or independent Trustees determine from time to
time.
Set forth below are the names, dates of birth, position with the Trust, length of term of office, and the principal occupations and other directorships held during at least the last five years of each of the persons currently serving as a Trustee of the Trust. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each Trustee is SEI Investments Company, One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTERESTED TRUSTEES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert Nesher Chairman of SEI employee 1974 to Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (08/17/46) the Board of present; currently performs Bishop Street Funds, SEI Daily Income Trust, Trustees(1) various services on behalf SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI (since 1991) of SEI Investments for Institutional Investments Trust, SEI which Mr. Nesher is Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid compensated. President and Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust and Director of SEI Opportunity SEI Tax Exempt Trust. President and Director Fund, L.P. and SEI of SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P. and SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP. Structured Credit Fund, L.P. Director of SEI President and Chief Global Master Fund plc, SEI Global Asset Fund Executive Officer of SEI plc, SEI Global Investments Fund plc, SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, Investments -- Global Funds Services, Limited, LP, June 2007 to present. SEI Investments Global, Limited, SEI Investments (Europe) Ltd., SEI Investments -- Unit Trust Management (UK) Limited, SEI Multi-Strategy Funds PLC, SEI Global Nominee Ltd. and SEI Alpha Stragegy Portfolios, L.P. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- William M. Doran Trustee(1) Self-Employed Consultant Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (05/26/40) (since 1992) since 2003. Partner at Bishop Street Funds, SEI Daily Income Trust, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI (law firm) from 1976 to Institutional Investments Trust, SEI 2003. Counsel to the Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Trust, SEI Investments, SIMC, Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust the Administrator and the and SEI Tax Exempt Trust. Director of SEI Distributor. Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP. Director of SEI Investments (Europe), Limited, SEI Investments--Global Funds Services, Limited, SEI Investments Global, Limited, SEI Investments (Asia), Limited and SEI Asset Korea Co., Ltd. Director of the Distributor since 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Charles E. Carlbom Trustee Self-Employed Business Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (08/20/34) (since 2005) Consultant, Business and Bishop Street Funds; Director of Oregon Projects Inc. Transfer Co. since 1997. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- John K. Darr Trustee Retired. CEO, Office of Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (08/17/44) (since 2008) Finance, Federal Home Loan and Bishop Street Funds, Director of Federal Bank, from 1992 to 2007. Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh and Manna, Inc. (non-profit developer of affordable housing for ownership). ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mitchell A. Johnson Trustee Retired. Private investor Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (03/01/42) (since 2005) since 1994. Bishop Street Funds, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP. Director, Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac) since 1997. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Betty L. Krikorian Trustee Vice President, Compliance, Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (01/23/43) (since 2005) AARP Financial Inc. from and Bishop Street Funds. 2008 to 2010. Self-Employed Legal and Financial Services Consultant since 2003. Counsel (in-house) for State Street Bank from 1995 to 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James M. Storey Trustee Attorney, Solo Practitioner Trustee/Director of The Advisors' Inner (04/12/31) (since 1994) since 1994. Circle Fund, Bishop Street Funds, U.S. Charitable Gift Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, L.P. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- George J. Sullivan, Jr. Trustee Self-employed Consultant, Trustee/Director of State Street Navigator (11/13/42) (since 1999) Newfound Consultants Inc. Securities Lending Trust, The Advisors' since April 1997. Inner Circle Fund, Bishop Street Funds, SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P., SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP; member of the independent review committee for SEI's Canadian-registered mutual funds. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Denotes Trustees who may be deemed to be "interested" persons of the Fund as that term is defined in the 1940 Act by virtue of their affiliation with the Distributor and/or its affiliates.
Individual Trustee Qualifications
The Trust has concluded that each of the Trustees should serve on the Board because of their ability to review and understand information about the Funds provided to them by management, to identify and request other information they may deem relevant to the performance of their duties, to question management and other service providers regarding material factors bearing on the management and administration of the Funds, and to exercise their business judgment in a manner that serves the best interests of the Funds' shareholders. The Trust has concluded that each of the Trustees should serve as a Trustee based on their own experience, qualifications, attributes and skills as described below.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Nesher should serve as Trustee because of the experience he has gained in his various roles with SEI Investments Company, which he joined in 1974, his knowledge of and experience in the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1991.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Doran should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained serving as a Partner in the Investment Management and Securities Industry Practice of a large law firm, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1991.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Carlbom should serve as Trustee because of the business experience he gained as President and CEO of a large distribution cooperative and Chairman of a
consulting company, his knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Funds since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Darr should serve as Trustee because of his background in economics, the business experience he gained in a variety of roles with different financial and banking institutions and as a founder of a money management firm, his knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2008.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Johnson should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained as President and founder of an investment management firm, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services and banking industries, the experience he gained serving as a director of other mutual funds, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Ms. Krikorian should serve as Trustee because of the experience she gained serving as a legal and financial services consultant, in-house counsel to a large custodian bank and Vice President of Compliance of an investment adviser, her background in fiduciary and banking law, her experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience she has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Storey should serve as Trustee because of the mutual fund governance experience he gained as an Investment Management attorney, both in private practice and with the SEC, his background serving as counsel to numerous mutual fund boards of trustees, his knowledge of the 1940 Act, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1994.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Sullivan should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained as a certified public accountant and financial consultant, his experience in and knowledge of public company accounting and auditing and the financial services industry, the experience he gained as an officer of a large financial services firm in its operations department and his experience from serving as trustee of the Trust since 1999.
In its periodic assessment of the effectiveness of the Board, the Board considers the complementary individual skills and experience of the individual Trustees primarily in the broader context of the Board's overall composition so that the Board, as a body, possesses the appropriate (and appropriately diverse) skills and experience to oversee the business of the funds. Moreover, references to the qualifications, attributes and skills of Trustees are pursuant to requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, do not constitute holding out of the Board or any Trustee as having any special expertise or experience, and shall not be deemed to impose any greater responsibility or liability on any such person or on the Board by reason thereof.
BOARD COMMITTEES. The Board has established the following standing committees:
o AUDIT COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Audit Committee that is
composed of each of the independent Trustees of the Trust. The Audit
Committee operates under a written charter approved by the Board. The
principal responsibilities of the Audit Committee include:
recommending which firm to engage as each fund's independent
registered public accounting firm and whether to terminate this
relationship; reviewing the
independent registered public accounting firm's compensation, the proposed scope and terms of its engagement, and the firm's independence; pre-approving audit and non-audit services provided by each fund's independent registered public accounting firm to the Trust and certain other affiliated entities; serving as a channel of communication between the independent registered public accounting firm and the Trustees; reviewing the results of each external audit, including any qualifications in the independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, any related management letter, management's responses to recommendations made by the independent registered public accounting firm in connection with the audit, reports submitted to the Committee by the internal auditing department of the Trust's Administrator that are material to the Trust as a whole, if any, and management's responses to any such reports; reviewing each fund's audited financial statements and considering any significant disputes between the Trust's management and the independent registered public accounting firm that arose in connection with the preparation of those financial statements; considering, in consultation with the independent registered public accounting firm and the Trust's senior internal accounting executive, if any, the independent registered public accounting firms' reports on the adequacy of the Trust's internal financial controls; reviewing, in consultation with each fund's independent registered public accounting firm, major changes regarding auditing and accounting principles and practices to be followed when preparing each fund's financial statements; and other audit related matters. Messrs. Carlbom, Darr, Johnson, Storey, Sullivan and Ms. Krikorian currently serve as members of the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
o FAIR VALUE PRICING COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Fair Value Pricing Committee that is composed of at least one Trustee and various representatives of the Trust's service providers, as appointed by the Board. The Fair Value Pricing Committee operates under procedures approved by the Board. The principal responsibility of the Fair Value Pricing Committee is to determine the fair value of securities for which current market quotations are not readily available. The Fair Value Pricing Committee's determinations are reviewed by the Board. Mr. Nesher, interested trustee, currently serves as the Board's delegate on the Fair Value Pricing Committee. The Fair Value Pricing Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
o GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Governance Committee (formerly the Nominating Committee) that is composed of each of the independent Trustees of the Trust. The Governance Committee operates under a written charter approved by the Board. The principal responsibilities of the Governance Committee include: considering and reviewing Board governance and compensation issues; conducting a self-assessment of the Board's operations; selecting and nominating all persons to serve as Independent Trustees and evaluating the qualifications of "interested" Trustee candidates; and reviewing shareholder recommendations for nominations to fill vacancies on the Board if such recommendations are submitted in writing and addressed to the Committee at the Trust's office. Ms. Krikorian and Messrs. Carlbom, Darr, Johnson, Storey and Sullivan, currently serve as members of the Governance Committee. The Governance Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met once during the most recently completed fiscal year.
FUND SHARES OWNED BY BOARD MEMBERS. The following table shows the dollar amount range of each Trustee's "beneficial ownership" of shares of the Funds as of the and of the most recently
completed calendar year. Dollar amount ranges disclosed are established by the SEC. "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the 1934 Act. The Trustees and officers of the Trust own less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Trust.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGGREGATE DOLLAR DOLLAR RANGE RANGE OF SHARES NAME OF FUND SHARES (ALL FUNDS)(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTERESTED TRUSTEES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nesher None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Doran None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Carlbom $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Darr $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Johnson $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Krikorian $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Storey $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sullivan $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Valuation date is December 31, 2009.
BOARD COMPENSATION. The Trust paid the following fees to the Trustees during its most recently completed fiscal year.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PENSION OR RETIREMENT BENEFITS ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL COMPENSATION FROM AGGREGATE ACCRUED AS PART OF BENEFITS UPON THE TRUST AND FUND NAME COMPENSATION FUND EXPENSES RETIREMENT COMPLEX(2) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $0 for service on one (1) Robert A. Nesher(1) $0 N/A N/A board ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $0 for service on one (1) William M. Doran(1) $0 N/A N/A board ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) Charles E. Carlbom $XX N/A N/A board ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) John K. Darr $XX N/A N/A board ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) Mitchell A. Johnson $XX N/A N/A board ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) Betty L. Krikorian $XX N/A N/A board ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) James M. Storey $XX N/A N/A board ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX for service on one (1) George J. Sullivan $XX N/A N/A board ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) A Trustee who is an "interested person" as defined by the 1940 Act.
(2) The Trust is the only investment company in the "Fund Complex."
TRUST OFFICERS. Set forth below are the names, dates of birth, position with the Trust, and the principal occupations for the last five years of each of the persons currently serving as the Executive Officers of the Trust. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each officer is
SEI Investments Company, One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. The Chief Compliance Officer is the only officer who receives compensation from the Trust for his services.
Certain officers of the Trust also serve as officers of one or more mutual funds for which SEI Investments Company or its affiliates act as investment manager, administrator or distributor.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH OTHER NAME AND TRUST AND PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS DIRECTORSHIPS DATE OF BIRTH LENGTH OF TERM IN PAST 5 YEARS HELD -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Philip T. President Managing Director of SEI None. Masterson (since 2008) Investments since 2006. Vice (03/12/64) President and Assistant Secretary of the Administrator from 2004 to 2006. General Counsel of Citco Mutual Fund Services from 2003 to 2004. Vice President and Associate Counsel for the Oppenheimer Funds from 2001 to 2003. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael Treasurer, Director, SEI Investments, Fund None. Lawson Controller and Accounting since July 2005. (10/08/60) Chief Financial Manager, SEI Investments, Officer Fund Accounting at SEI (since 2005) Investments AVP from April 1995 to February 1998 and November 1998 to July 2005. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Russell Emery Chief Chief Compliance Officer of None. (12/18/62) Compliance SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP Officer and SEI Alpha Strategy (since 2006) Portfolios, LP since June 2007. Chief Compliance Officer of SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P., SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust and SEI Tax Exempt Trust since March 2006. Director of Investment Product Management and Development, SEI Investments, since February 2003; Senior Investment Analyst -- Equity Team, SEI Investments, from March 2000 to February 2003. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Carolyn Mead Vice President Counsel at SEI Investments None. (07/08/57) and Assistant since 2007. Associate at Secretary Stradley, Ronon, Stevens & (since 2007) Young from 2004 to 2007. Counsel at ING Variable Annuities from 1999 to 2002. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH OTHER NAME AND TRUST AND PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS DIRECTORSHIPS DATE OF BIRTH LENGTH OF TERM IN PAST 5 YEARS HELD -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Timothy D. Vice President General Counsel and Secretary None. Barto and Assistant of SIMC and the Administrator (03/28/68) Secretary since 2004. Vice President of (since 1999) SIMC and the Administrator since 1999. Vice President and Assistant Secretary of SEI Investments since 2001. Assistant Secretary of SIMC, the Administrator and the Distributor, and Vice President of the Distributor from 1999 to 2003. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James Ndiaye Vice President Vice President and Assistant None. (09/11/68) and Assistant Secretary of SIMC since 2005. Secretary Vice President at Deutsche (since 2004) Asset Management from 2003 to 2004. Associate at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP from 2000 to 2003. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Joseph Gallo Vice President Counsel at SEI Investments None. (04/29/73) and Secretary since 2007. Associate Counsel (since 2007) at ICMA--RC from 2004 to 2007. Assistant Secretary of The VantageTrust Company in 2007. Assistant Secretary of The Vantagepoint Funds from 2006 to 2007. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew S. AML Officer Compliance Officer and None. Decker (since 2008) Product Manager of SEI (08/22/63) Investments since 2005. Vice President of Old Mutual Capital from 2000 to 2005. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael Vice President Director of Client Service at None. Beattie (since 2009) SEI since 2004. (03/13/65) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Keri Rohn Privacy Officer Compliance Officer at SEI None. (8/24/80) (since 2009) Investments since 2003. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES
Purchases and redemptions may be made through the Transfer Agent on any day the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. Shares of the Funds are offered and redeemed on a continuous basis. Currently, the Trust is closed for business when the following holidays are observed: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
It is currently the Trust's policy to pay all redemptions in cash. The Trust retains the right, however, to alter this policy to provide for redemptions in whole or in part by a distribution in-kind of securities held by a Fund in lieu of cash. Shareholders may incur brokerage charges on the sale of any such securities so received in payment of redemptions. A shareholder will at all times be entitled to aggregate cash redemptions from all funds of the Trust up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the Trust's net assets during any 90-day period. The Trust has obtained an exemptive order from the SEC that permits the Trust to make in-kind redemptions to those shareholders of the Trust that are affiliated with the Trust solely by their ownership of a certain percentage of the Trust's investment portfolios.
The Trust reserves the right to suspend the right of redemption and/or to postpone the date of payment upon redemption for any period on which trading on the NYSE is restricted, or during the existence of an emergency (as determined by the SEC by rule or regulation) as a result of which disposal or valuation of a Fund's securities is not reasonably practicable, or for such other periods as the SEC has by order permitted. The Trust also reserves the right to suspend sales of shares of the Funds for any period during which the NYSE, the Adviser, the Sub-Advisers, the Administrator, the Transfer Agent and/or the Custodian are not open for business.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
GENERAL POLICY. The Funds adhere to Section 2(a)(41), and Rule 2a-4 thereunder, of the 1940 Act with respect to the valuation of portfolio securities. In general, securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at current market value, and all other securities are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Board. In complying with the 1940 Act, the Trust relies on guidance provided by the SEC and by the SEC staff in various interpretive letters and other guidance.
EQUITY SECURITIES. Securities listed on a securities exchange, market or automated quotation system for which quotations are readily available (except for securities traded on NASDAQ), including securities traded over the counter, are valued at the last quoted sale price on the primary exchange or market (foreign or domestic) on which they are traded on valuation date (or at approximately 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time if a security's primary exchange is normally open at that time), or, if there is no such reported sale on the valuation date, at the most recent quoted bid price. For securities traded on NASDAQ, the NASDAQ Official Closing Price will be used. If such prices are not available or determined to not represent the fair value of the security as of a Fund's pricing time, the security will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
MONEY MARKET SECURITIES AND OTHER DEBT SECURITIES. If available, money market securities and other debt securities are priced based upon valuations provided by recognized independent, third-party pricing agents. Such values generally reflect the last reported sales price if the security is actively traded. The third-party pricing agents may also value debt securities by employing methodologies that utilize actual market transactions, broker-supplied valuations, or other methodologies designed to identify the market value for such securities. Such methodologies generally consider such factors as security prices, yields, maturities, call features, ratings and developments relating to specific securities in arriving at valuations. Money market securities and other debt securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less may be valued at their amortized cost, which approximates market value. If such prices are not available or determined to not represent the fair value of the security as of a Fund's pricing time, the security will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
USE OF THIRD-PARTY INDEPENDENT PRICING AGENTS. Pursuant to contracts with the
Administrator, market prices for most securities held by the Funds are provided
daily by third-party independent pricing agents that are approved by the Board.
The valuations provided by third-party independent pricing agents are reviewed
daily by the Administrator.
TAXES
The following is only a summary of certain additional federal income tax considerations generally affecting the Funds and their shareholders that is intended to supplement the discussion contained in the Funds' prospectuses. No attempt is made to present a detailed explanation of the tax treatment of the Funds or their shareholders, and the discussion here and in the Funds' prospectuses is not intended as a substitute for careful tax planning. Shareholders are urged to consult with their tax advisors with specific reference to their own tax situations, including their state, local, and foreign tax liabilities.
The following general discussion of certain federal income tax consequences is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and the regulations issued thereunder as in effect on the date of this SAI. New legislation, as well as administrative changes or court decisions, may significantly change the conclusions expressed herein, and may have a retroactive effect with respect to the transactions contemplated herein.
QUALIFICATIONS AS A RIC
Each Fund intends to qualify and elects to be treated as a "regulated investment company" ("RIC") under Subchapter M of the Code. By following such a policy, each Fund expects to eliminate or reduce to a nominal amount the federal taxes to which it may be subject. The Board reserves the right not to maintain the qualification of each Fund as a regulated investment company if it determines such course of action to be beneficial to shareholders.
In order to be taxable as a RIC, each Fund must distribute annually to its shareholders at least 90% of its net investment income (generally net investment income plus the excess of net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses, less operating expenses) and at least 90% of its net tax exempt interest income, for each tax year, if any, to its shareholders ("Distribution Requirement") and also must meet several additional requirements. Among these requirements are the following: (i) at least 90% of the Fund's gross income each taxable year must be derived from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income, including, generally, certain gains from options, futures, and forward contracts derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies, and net income derived from an interest in qualified publicly traded partnerships ("90% Test"); (ii) at the end of each fiscal quarter of each Fund's taxable year, at least 50% of the market value of its total assets must be represented by cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, securities of other RICs and other securities, with such other securities limited, in respect to any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets or more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (iii) at the end of each fiscal quarter of each Fund's taxable year, not more than 25% of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities (other than U.S. government securities or securities of other RICs) of any one issuer or the securities (other than the securities of other RICs) of two or more issuers that each Fund controls and which are engaged in the same, or similar, or related trades or businesses, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships ("Asset Test").
If a Fund fails to qualify as a RIC for any year, all of its income will be subject to federal income tax at regular corporate rates without any deduction for distributions to shareholders. In such case, its shareholders would be taxed as if they received ordinary dividends, although corporate shareholders could be eligible for the dividends received deduction and individuals may be able to benefit from the lower tax rates available to qualified dividend income. In addition, the Fund would be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial taxes and interest, and make substantial distributions before requalifying as a RIC.
FEDERAL EXCISE TAX
Notwithstanding the Distribution Requirement described above, which only requires each Fund to distribute at least 90% of its annual investment company income and does not require any minimum distribution of net capital gain, each Fund will be subject to a nondeductible 4% federal excise tax to the extent it fails to distribute, by the end of any calendar year, at least 98% of its ordinary income for that year and 98% of its capital gain net income (the excess of short- and long-term capital gain over short- and long-term capital loss) for the one-year period ending on October 31 of that year, plus certain other amounts. The Funds intend to make sufficient distributions to avoid liability for federal excise tax, but can make no assurances that such tax will be completely eliminated. A Fund may, in certain circumstances, be required to liquidate Fund investments in order to make sufficient distributions to avoid federal excise tax liability at a time when the investment adviser might not otherwise have chosen to do so, and liquidation of investments in such circumstances may affect the ability of the Fund to satisfy the requirement for qualification as a RIC.
SHAREHOLDER TREATMENT
The Funds' dividends that are paid to their corporate shareholders and are attributable to qualifying dividends they received from U.S. domestic corporations may be eligible, in the hands of such shareholders, for the corporate dividends received deduction, subject to certain holding period requirements and debt financing limitations. Generally, and subject to certain limitations (including certain holding period limitations), a dividend will be treated as a qualifying dividend if it has been received from a domestic corporation. All dividends (including the deducted portion) must be included in your alternative minimum taxable income calculation.
The Funds receive income generally in the form of dividends and interest on investments. This income, plus net short-term capital gains, if any, less expenses incurred in the operation of the Funds, constitutes the Funds' net investment income from which dividends may be paid to you. Any distributions by the Funds (except the Frost Municipal Bond Fund and the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund) from such income will be taxable to you as ordinary income or at the lower capital gains rates that apply to individuals receiving qualified dividend income, whether you take them in cash or in additional shares.
Distributions by the Funds will be eligible for the reduced maximum tax rate to individuals of 15% (lower rates apply to individuals in lower tax brackets) to the extent that the Funds receive qualified dividend income on the securities they hold and the Funds designate the distribution as qualified dividend income. Qualified dividend income is, in general, dividend income from taxable domestic corporations and certain foreign corporations (e.g., foreign corporations incorporated in a possession of the United States or in certain countries with a comprehensive tax treaty with the United States, or the stock of which is readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States). A dividend will not be treated as qualified dividend income to the
extent that (i) the shareholder has not held the shares on which the dividend
was paid for more than 60 days during the 121-day period that begins on the
date that is 60 days before the date on which the shares become "ex-dividend"
(which is the day on which declared distributions (dividends or capital gains)
are deducted from a Fund's assets before it calculates the net asset value)
with respect to such dividend (and a Fund also satisfies those holding period
requirements with respect to the securities it holds that paid the dividends
distributed to the shareholder), (ii) the shareholder is under an obligation
(whether pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with
respect to substantially similar or related property, or (iii) the shareholder
elects to treat such dividend as investment income under section 163(d)(4)(B)
of the Code. Distributions that a Fund receives from another investment company
or ETF taxable as a regulated investment company will be treated as qualified
dividend income only to the extent so designated by such investment company or
ETF. Absent further legislation, the maximum 15% rate on qualified dividend
income will not apply to dividends received in taxable years beginning after
December 31, 2010. Distributions by a Fund of its net short-term capital gains
will be taxable as ordinary income. Capital gain distributions consisting of a
Fund's net capital gains will be taxable as long-term capital gains regardless
of how long a Fund's shares have been held by the shareholder.
It is expected that the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, Frost Total Return Bond Fund, and Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund will receive income generally in the form of interest derived from such Fund's investments, and distributions of such earnings will be taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. However, these Funds may derive capital gains and losses in connection with sales or other dispositions of their portfolio securities. Distributions of long-term capital gains are taxable as capital gains, while distributions of short-term capital gains and net investment income are generally taxable to shareholders as ordinary income.
Because the Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, Frost Total Return Bond Fund, Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, Frost Municipal Bond Fund, and the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund will receive income generally in the form of interest derived from their investments, none of their dividends are expected to qualify under the Code for the dividends received deductions for corporations or for the lower tax rates on qualified dividend income.
The Funds will report annually to their shareholders the amount of the Funds' distributions that qualify for the reduced tax rates on qualified dividend income.
If a Fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be re-characterized as a return of capital to the shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the Funds and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
Any gain or loss recognized on a sale, exchange, or redemption of shares of a Fund by a shareholder who is not a dealer in securities will generally, for individual shareholders, be treated as a long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than twelve months and otherwise will be treated as a short-term capital gain or loss. However, if shares on which a shareholder has received a net capital gain distribution are subsequently sold, exchanged, or redeemed and such shares have been held for six months or less, any loss recognized will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of the net capital gain distribution. In addition, the loss realized on a sale or other disposition of shares will be disallowed to the extent a shareholder repurchases (or enters into a contract to or option to repurchase) shares within a period of 61 days
(beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the disposition of the shares). This loss disallowance rule will apply to shares received through the reinvestment of dividends during the 61-day period.
SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS FOR SHAREHOLDERS OF THE FROST MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
AND THE FROST LOW DURATION MUNICIPAL BOND FUND. The Frost Municipal Bond Fund
and the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund intend to satisfy conditions
(including requirements as to the proportion of its assets invested in
municipal obligations) that will enable them to designate distributions from
the interest income generated by investments in municipal obligations, which is
exempt from regular federal income tax when received by such Fund, as
exempt-interest dividends. Shareholders receiving exempt-interest dividends
will not be subject to regular federal income tax on the amount of such
dividends, but may (as discussed below) become subject to the federal
alternative minimum tax. Insurance proceeds received by the Frost Municipal
Bond Fund and the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund under any insurance
policies in respect of scheduled interest payments on defaulted municipal
obligations will generally be excludable from federal gross income under
Section 103(a) of the Code. In the case of non-appropriation by a political
subdivision, however, there can be no assurance that payments made by the
insurer representing interest on nonappropriation lease obligations will be
excludable from gross income for federal income tax purposes.
Because the Frost Municipal Bond Fund and the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund may invest in private activity bonds (within the meaning of Section 141 of the Code), the interest on which is not federally tax-exempt to persons who are "substantial users" of the facilities financed by such bonds or "related persons" of such "substantial users," these Funds may not be an appropriate investment for shareholders who are considered either a "substantial user" or a "related person" within the meaning of the Code. For additional information, investors should consult their tax advisors before investing in a Fund.
Federal tax law imposes an alternative minimum tax with respect to both corporations and individuals. Interest on certain municipal obligations that meet the definition of private activity bonds under the Code is included as an item of tax preference in determining the amount of a taxpayer's alternative minimum taxable income. To the extent that the Frost Municipal Bond Fund or the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund receives income from private activity bonds, a portion of the dividends paid by it, although otherwise exempt from federal income tax, will be taxable to those shareholders subject to the alternative minimum tax regime. These Funds will annually supply shareholders with a report indicating the percentage of the Fund's income attributable to municipal obligations required to be included in calculating the federal alternative minimum tax.
In addition, the alternative minimum taxable income for corporations is increased by 75% of the difference between an alternative measure of income ("adjusted current earnings") and the amount otherwise determined to be the alternative minimum taxable income. Interest on all municipal obligations, and therefore all distributions by the Frost Municipal Bond Fund or the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund that would otherwise be tax-exempt, is included in calculating a corporation's adjusted current earnings.
Tax-exempt income, including exempt-interest dividends paid by the Frost Municipal Bond Fund and the Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund, are taken into account in determining whether a portion of such Fund shareholder's social security or railroad retirement benefits will be subject to federal income tax.
The Code provides that interest on indebtedness incurred or continued to purchase or carry shares of any Fund that distributes exempt-interest dividends may be disallowed as a deduction in whole or in part (depending upon the amount of exempt-interest dividends distributed in comparison to other taxable distributions). Under rules used by the IRS for determining when borrowed funds are considered used for the purpose of purchasing or carrying particular assets, the purchase of shares of a Fund may be considered to have been made with borrowed funds even though such funds are not directly traceable to the purchase of shares.
Depending on a shareholder's state of residence, exempt interest dividends from interest earned on municipal obligations of a state, or its political subdivisions may be exempt in the hands of such shareholder from income tax in that state. However, income from municipal obligations of a state other than the shareholder's state of residence generally will not qualify for tax-free treatment for such shareholder.
FOREIGN TAXES. Dividends and interest received by a Fund may be subject to income, withholding or other taxes imposed by foreign countries and United States possessions that would reduce the yield on a Fund's securities. Tax conventions between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate these taxes. Foreign countries generally do not impose taxes on capital gains with respect to investments by foreign investors. If more than 50% of the value of a Fund's total assets at the close of its taxable year consists of stocks or securities of foreign corporations, the Fund will be eligible to, and will, file an election with the Internal Revenue Service that may enable shareholders, in effect, to receive either the benefit of a foreign tax credit or a deduction with respect to any foreign and U.S. possessions income taxes paid by the Fund, subject to certain limitations. Pursuant to the election, the Fund will treat those taxes as dividends paid to its shareholders. Each such shareholder will be required to include a proportionate share of those taxes in gross income as income received from a foreign source and must treat the amount so included as if the shareholder had paid the foreign tax directly. The shareholder may then either deduct the taxes deemed paid by him or her in computing his or her taxable income or, alternatively, use the foregoing information in calculating any foreign tax credit they may be entitled to use against the shareholders' federal income tax. If a Fund makes the election, the Fund will report annually to its shareholders the respective amounts per share of the Fund's income from sources within, and taxes paid to, foreign countries and U.S. possessions. Based upon its investment objectives, the Frost International Equity Fund may be eligible to make the election.
STATE TAXES. Depending upon state and local law, distributions by the Funds to their shareholders and the ownership of such shares may be subject to state and local taxes. Rules of state and local taxation of dividend and capital gains distributions from RICs often differ from rules for federal income taxation described above. No Fund is liable for any income or franchise tax in Massachusetts if it qualifies as a RIC for federal income tax purposes. Shareholders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding state and local taxes applicable to an investment in the Funds.
Many states grant tax-free status to dividends paid to you from interest earned on direct obligations of the U.S. government, subject in some states to minimum investment requirements that must be met by the Funds. Investment in Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae") or Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") securities, banker's acceptances, commercial paper, and repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government securities do not generally qualify for such tax-free treatment. The rules on exclusion of this income are different for corporate shareholders.
TAX TREATMENT OF COMPLEX SECURITIES. The Funds may invest in complex securities. These investments may be subject to numerous special and complex tax rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by the Funds are treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the recognition of income to the Funds and/or defer the Funds' ability to recognize losses, and, in limited cases, subject the Funds' to U.S. federal income tax on income from certain of its foreign securities. In turn, these rules may affect the amount, timing or character of the income distributed to you by the Funds.
Most foreign exchange gains realized on the sale of debt securities are treated as ordinary income by the Funds. Similarly, foreign exchange losses realized by the Funds on the sale of debt securities are generally treated as ordinary losses by the Funds. These gains when distributed will be taxable to you as ordinary dividends, and any losses will reduce the Funds' ordinary income otherwise available for distribution to you. This treatment could increase or reduce the Funds' ordinary income distributions to you, and may cause some or all of the Funds' previously distributed income to be classified as a return of capital.
With respect to investments in STRIPS, TRs, and other zero coupon securities which are sold at original issue discount and thus do not make periodic cash interest payments, a Fund will be required to include as part of its current income the imputed interest on such obligations even though the Fund has not received any interest payments on such obligations during that period. Because each Fund distributes all of its net investment income to its shareholders, a Fund may have to sell Fund securities to distribute such imputed income which may occur at a time when the Adviser would not have chosen to sell such securities and which may result in taxable gain or loss.
A Fund's investment in REITs may require the Fund to pass-through certain "excess inclusion income" as "unrelated business taxable income" ("UBTI"). Tax-exempt investors sensitive to UBTI are strongly encouraged to consult their tax advisers prior to investment in a Fund regarding this issue and recent IRS pronouncements regarding the treatment of such income in the hands of such investors.
COMMODITY-LINKED DERIVATIVES. The status of the swap agreements and other commodity-linked derivative instruments under tests to qualify as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code has been recently addressed in Revenue Ruling 2006-1 and Revenue Ruling 2006-31 which provide that income from commodity-linked swaps in which the Funds invest will not be considered qualifying income after September 30, 2006. Each Fund will therefore restrict its income from commodity-linked swaps (when combined with its other investments that produce non-qualifying income) to be less than 10 percent of its gross income. The Funds may also gain exposure to commodities through investments in controlled foreign corporations and certain qualified publicly traded partnerships.
SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. In general, with respect to the Funds, gains from "foreign currencies" and from foreign currency options, foreign currency futures, and forward foreign exchange contracts ("forward contracts") relating to investments in stock, securities, or foreign currencies will be qualifying income for purposes of determining whether the Fund qualifies as a RIC. It is currently unclear, however, who will be treated as the issuer of a foreign currency instrument for purposes of the RIC diversification requirements applicable to a Fund.
Under the Code, special rules are provided for certain transactions in a foreign currency other than the taxpayer's functional currency (i.e., unless certain special rules apply, currencies other than the U.S. Dollar). In general, foreign currency gains or losses from forward contracts, from
futures contracts that are not "regulated futures contracts," and from unlisted options will be treated as ordinary income or loss under the Code. Also, certain foreign exchange gains derived with respect to foreign fixed-income securities are also subject to special treatment. In general, any such gains or losses will increase or decrease the amount of a Fund's investment company taxable income available to be distributed to shareholders as ordinary income, rather than increasing or decreasing the amount of a Fund's net capital gain. Additionally, if such losses exceed other investment company taxable income during a taxable year, a Fund would not be able to make any ordinary dividend distributions.
If a Fund owns shares in certain foreign investment entities, referred to as "passive foreign investment companies" or "PFICs", the Fund will be subject to one of the following special tax regimes: (i) the Fund would be liable for U.S. federal income tax, and an additional interest charge, on a portion of any "excess distribution" from such foreign entity or any gain from the disposition of such shares, even if the entire distribution or gain is paid out by the Fund as a dividend to its shareholders; (ii) if the Fund were able and elected to treat a PFIC as a "qualified electing fund" or "QEF", the Fund would be required each year to include in income, and distribute to shareholders in accordance with the distribution requirements set forth above, the Fund's pro rata share of the ordinary earnings and net capital gains of the PFIC, whether or not such earnings or gains are distributed to the Fund; or (iii) the Fund may be entitled to mark-to-market annually shares of the PFIC, and in such event would be required to distribute to shareholders any such mark-to-market gains in accordance with the distribution requirements set forth above.
OTHER TAX POLICIES. In certain cases, the Funds will be required to withhold, at the applicable withholding rate, and remit to the United States Treasury, such withheld amounts on any distributions paid to a shareholder who (1) has failed to provide a correct taxpayer identification number, (2) is subject to backup withholding by the Internal Revenue Service, (3) has not certified to the Funds that such shareholder is not subject to backup withholding, or (4) has not certified that such shareholder is a U.S. person or U.S. resident alien.
Non-U.S. investors in the Funds may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax and are encouraged to consult their tax advisors prior to investing in the Funds.
FUND TRANSACTIONS
BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS. Generally, equity securities are bought and sold through brokerage transactions for which commissions are payable. Purchases from underwriters will include the underwriting commission or concession, and purchases from dealers serving as market makers will include a dealer's mark-up or reflect a dealer's mark-down. Money Market Securities and other debt securities are usually bought and sold directly from the issuer or an underwriter or market maker for the securities. Generally, the Funds will not pay brokerage commissions for such purchases. When a debt security is bought from an underwriter, the purchase price will usually include an underwriting commission or concession. The purchase price for securities bought from dealers serving as market makers will similarly include the dealer's mark up or reflect a dealer's mark down. When a Fund executes transactions in the over-the-counter market, it will generally deal with primary market makers unless prices that are more favorable are otherwise obtainable.
In addition, the Adviser may place a combined order for two or more accounts it manages, including a Fund, engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security if, in its judgment, joint execution is in the best interest of each participant and will result in best price and execution.
Transactions involving commingled orders are allocated in a manner deemed equitable to each account or Fund. Although it is recognized that, in some cases, the joint execution of orders could adversely affect the price or volume of the security that a particular account or Fund may obtain, it is the opinion of the Adviser that the advantages of combined orders outweigh the possible disadvantages of separate transactions. Nonetheless, the Adviser believes that the ability of a Fund to participate in higher volume transactions will generally be beneficial to the Funds.
For the fiscal period ended July 31, 2008 and the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the Funds paid the following aggregate brokerage commissions on portfolio transactions:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGGREGATE DOLLAR AMOUNT OF BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS PAID ----------------------------------------------------- FUND 2008 2009 2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Core Growth Equity Fund $46,388 $548,047 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund $106,806 $465,832 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Strategic Balanced Fund $10,365 $12,821 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund $77,676 $60,203 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Small Cap Equity Fund $177,554 $531,741 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost International Equity Fund $84,209 $176,676 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Bond Fund $76 $0 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Total Return Bond Fund $0 $0 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Municipal Bond Fund $0 $0 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund $0 $0 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund $0 $0 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund $15,202 $19,041 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LKCM Small- Mid Fund $20,885 $41,018 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
BROKERAGE SELECTION. The Trust does not expect to use one particular broker or dealer, and when one or more brokers is believed capable of providing the best combination of price and execution, the Funds' Adviser may select a broker based upon brokerage or research services provided to the Adviser. The Adviser may pay a higher commission than otherwise obtainable from other brokers in return for such services only if a good faith determination is made that the commission is reasonable in relation to the services provided.
Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act permits the Adviser, under certain circumstances, to cause each Fund to pay a broker or dealer a commission for effecting a transaction in excess of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting the transaction in recognition of the value of brokerage and research services provided by the broker or dealer. In addition to agency transactions, the Adviser may receive brokerage and research services in connection with certain riskless principal transactions, in accordance with applicable SEC guidance. Brokerage and research services include: (1) furnishing advice as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities, and the availability of
securities or purchasers or sellers of securities; (2) furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors and trends, Fund strategy, and the performance of accounts; and (3) effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance, settlement, and custody). In the case of research services, the Adviser believes that access to independent investment research is beneficial to its investment decision-making processes and, therefore, to each Fund.
To the extent that research services may be a factor in selecting brokers, such services may be in written form or through direct contact with individuals and may include information as to particular companies and securities as well as market, economic, or institutional areas and information which assists in the valuation and pricing of investments. Examples of research-oriented services for which the Adviser might utilize Fund commissions include research reports and other information on the economy, industries, sectors, groups of securities, individual companies, statistical information, political developments, technical market action, pricing and appraisal services, credit analysis, risk measurement analysis, performance and other analysis. The Adviser may use research services furnished by brokers in servicing all client accounts and not all services may necessarily be used in connection with the account that paid commissions to the broker providing such services. Information so received by the Adviser will be in addition to and not in lieu of the services required to be performed by the Funds' Adviser under the Advisory Agreement. Any advisory or other fees paid to the Adviser are not reduced as a result of the receipt of research services.
In some cases the Adviser may receive a service from a broker that has both a "research" and a "non-research" use. When this occurs, the Adviser makes a good faith allocation, under all the circumstances, between the research and non-research uses of the service. The percentage of the service that is used for research purposes may be paid for with client commissions, while the Adviser will use its own funds to pay for the percentage of the service that is used for non-research purposes. In making this good faith allocation, the Adviser faces a potential conflict of interest, but the Adviser believes that its allocation procedures are reasonably designed to ensure that it appropriately allocates the anticipated use of such services to their research and non-research uses.
From time to time, the Funds may purchase new issues of securities in a fixed price offering. In these situations, the seller may be a member of the selling group that will, in addition to selling securities, provide the Adviser with research services. FINRA has adopted rules expressly permitting these types of arrangements under certain circumstances. Generally, the seller will provide research "credits" in these situations at a rate that is higher than that which is available for typical secondary market transactions. These arrangements may not fall within the safe harbor of Section 28(e).
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Funds paid the following commissions on brokerage transactions directed to brokers pursuant to an agreement or understanding whereby the broker provides research or other brokerage services to the Adviser:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TOTAL DOLLAR AMOUNT OF TOTAL DOLLAR AMOUNT OF TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS FUND FOR RESEARCH SERVICES FOR RESEARCH SERVICES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Core Growth Equity Fund $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value $XX $XX Equity Fund -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Small Cap Equity Fund $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost International Equity Fund $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Bond Fund $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Total Return Bond Fund $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Municipal Bond Fund $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond $XX $XX Fund -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Treasury and Income $XX $XX Fund -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- LKCM Small- Mid Fund $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Strategic Balanced Fund $XX $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
BROKERAGE WITH FUND AFFILIATES. A Fund may execute brokerage or other agency transactions through registered broker-dealer affiliates of either the Fund, the Adviser or the Distributor for a commission in conformity with the 1940 Act, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "1934 Act") and rules promulgated by the SEC. These rules further require that commissions paid to the affiliate by the Fund for exchange transactions not exceed "usual and customary" brokerage commissions. The rules define "usual and customary" commissions to include amounts which are "reasonable and fair compared to the commission, fee or other remuneration received or to be received by other brokers in connection with comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold on a securities exchange during a comparable period of time." The Trustees, including those who are not "interested persons" of the Funds, have adopted procedures for evaluating the reasonableness of commissions paid to affiliates and review these procedures periodically.
For the fiscal period ended 2008 and the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the Funds paid the following aggregate brokerage commissions on portfolio transactions effected by affiliated brokers. All amounts shown were paid to the Distributor.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL AGGREGATE DOLLAR AMOUNT OF PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS PAID TO BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS EFFECTED THROUGH FUND AFFILIATED BROKERS PAID TO AFFILIATED BROKERS AFFILIATED BROKERS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Core Growth Equity Fund $0 $394,738 $XX 0% 72.0% XX% 0% 80.0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund $0 $314,539 $XX 0% 67.5% XX% 0% 76.1% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Small Cap Equity Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost International Equity Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Bond Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Total Return Bond Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Municipal Bond Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund $0 $0 $XX 0% 0% XX% 0% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Strategic Balanced Fund $0 $12,821 $XX 0% 100% XX% 0% 100% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
SECURITIES OF "REGULAR BROKER-DEALERS." The Funds are required to identify any securities of its "regular brokers and dealers" (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) which the Funds may hold at the close of their most recent fiscal year. As of July 31, 2010, the Funds did not hold any securities of "regular broker-dealers."
PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The Board has approved a policy and procedures that govern the timing and circumstances regarding the disclosure of Fund portfolio holdings information to shareholders and third parties. These policies and procedures are designed to ensure that disclosure of information regarding the Funds' portfolio securities is in the best interests of Fund shareholders, and include procedures to address conflicts between the interests of the Funds' shareholders and those of the Funds' Adviser, Sub-Advisers, principal underwriter, or any affiliated person of the Funds, the Adviser, the Sub-Advisers or the principal underwriter. Pursuant to such procedures, the Board has authorized the Adviser's Chief Compliance Officer ("Adviser CCO") to authorize the release of the Funds' portfolio holdings, as necessary, in conformity with the foregoing principles. The Adviser CCO, either directly or through reports by the Funds' Chief Compliance Officer, reports quarterly to the Board regarding the operation and administration of such policies and procedures.
Pursuant to applicable law, the Funds are required to disclose their complete portfolio holdings quarterly, within 60 days of the end of each fiscal quarter (currently, each January 31, April 30, July 31, and October 31). Each Fund will disclose a complete or summary schedule of investments (which includes each of the Fund's 50 largest holdings in unaffiliated issuers and each investment in unaffiliated issuers that exceeds one percent of the Fund's net asset value ("Summary Schedule")) in its Semi-Annual and Annual Reports which are distributed to Fund shareholders. Each Fund's complete schedule of investments following the first and third fiscal quarters is available in quarterly holdings reports filed with the SEC on Form N-Q, and each Fund's complete schedule of investments following the 2nd and 4th fiscal quarters is available in Semi-Annual and Annual Reports filed with the SEC on Form N-CSR. Quarterly holdings reports filed with the SEC on Form N-Q are not distributed to Fund shareholders, but are available, free of charge, on the EDGAR database on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
Additionally, each Fund publishes a quarterly fact sheet that includes a list of its ten largest portfolio holdings, on a quarterly basis, generally within two (2) weeks after the end of each quarter. The fact sheets will be available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-877-71-FROST.
In addition to information provided to shareholders and the general public, portfolio holdings information may be disclosed as frequently as daily to certain service providers, such as the custodian, administrator or transfer agent, in connection with their services to the Funds. From time to time rating and ranking organizations, such as S&P, Lipper and Morningstar, Inc., may request non-public portfolio holdings information in connection with rating a Fund. Similarly, institutional investors, financial planners, pension plan sponsors and/or their consultants or other third-parties may request portfolio holdings information in order to assess the risks of a Fund's portfolio along with related performance attribution statistics. The lag time for such disclosures will vary. The Funds believe that these third parties have legitimate objectives in requesting such portfolio holdings information. The Funds' Chief Compliance Officer will regularly review these arrangements and will make periodic reports to the Board regarding disclosure pursuant to such arrangements. The Adviser currently has no arrangements to provide non-public portfolio holdings information to any entity.
The Funds' policies and procedures provide that the Adviser's CCO may authorize disclosure of non-public portfolio holdings information to such parties at differing times and/or with different lag times. Prior to making any disclosure to a third party, the Adviser's CCO must determine that such disclosure serves a reasonable business purpose, is in the best interests of the Fund's shareholders and that to the extent conflicts between the interests of the Fund's shareholders and
those of the Fund's Adviser, Sub-Adviser, principal underwriter, or any affiliated person of the Fund exist, such conflicts are addressed. Portfolio holdings information may be disclosed no more frequently than monthly to ratings agencies, consultants and other qualified financial professionals or individuals. The disclosures will not be made sooner than three days after the date of the information.
With the exception of disclosures to rating and ranking organizations as described above, the Funds require any third party receiving non-public holdings information to enter into a confidentiality agreement with the Adviser. The confidentiality agreement provides, among other things, that non-public portfolio holdings information will be kept confidential and that the recipient has a duty not to trade on the non-public information and will use such information solely to analyze and rank the Funds, or to perform due diligence and asset allocation, depending on the recipient of the information.
The Funds' policies and procedures prohibit any compensation or other consideration from being paid to or received by any party in connection with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information, including the Funds, Adviser and its affiliates or recipient of the Funds' portfolio holdings information.
DESCRIPTION OF SHARES
The Declaration of Trust authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of funds and shares of each Fund, each of which represents an equal proportionate interest in the portfolio with each other share. Shares are entitled upon liquidation to a pro rata share in the net assets of a Fund. Shareholders have no preemptive rights. The Declaration of Trust provides that the Trustees of the Trust may create additional series or classes of shares. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any additional funds and all assets in which such consideration is invested would belong to that fund and would be subject to the liabilities related thereto. Share certificates representing shares will not be issued.
SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY
The Trust is an entity of the type commonly known as a "Massachusetts business trust." Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of such a trust could, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the trust. Even if, however, the Trust were held to be a partnership, the possibility of the shareholders incurring financial loss for that reason appears remote because the Trust's Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for obligations of the Trust and requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each agreement, obligation or instrument entered into or executed by or on behalf of the Trust or the Trustees, and because the Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification out of the Funds' property for any shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust.
LIMITATION OF TRUSTEES' LIABILITY
The Trust's Declaration of Trust provides that a Trustee shall be liable only for his or her own willful defaults and, if reasonable care has been exercised in the selection of officers, agents, employees or investment advisers, shall not be liable for any neglect or wrongdoing of any such person. The Declaration of Trust also provides that each Fund will indemnify its Trustees and officers against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection with actual or threatened litigation in which they may be involved because of their offices with the Trust unless it is determined in the manner provided in the Declaration of Trust that they have not acted in good faith in the
reasonable belief that their actions were in the best interests of the Trust. However, nothing in the Declaration of Trust shall protect or indemnify a Trustee against any liability for his or her willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his or her duties. Nothing contained in this section attempts to disclaim a Trustee's individual liability in any manner inconsistent with the federal securities laws.
PROXY VOTING
The Board of Trustees of the Trust has delegated responsibility for decisions regarding proxy voting for securities held by the Funds to the Adviser. The Adviser will vote such proxies in accordance with its proxy policies and procedures, which are included in Appendix B to this SAI. The Board of Trustees will periodically review each Fund's proxy voting record.
The Trust is required to disclose annually the Funds' complete proxy voting record on Form N-PX. Beginning August 31, 2009, the Funds' proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th will be available upon request by calling 1-877-71-FROST or by writing to the Funds at Frost Funds P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, MO 64121-9009. Each Fund's Form N-PX will also be available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
CODES OF ETHICS
The Board of Trustees, on behalf of the Trust, has adopted a Code of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. In addition, the Adviser, Sub-Advisers, Distributor and Administrator have each adopted Codes of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1. These Codes of Ethics apply to the personal investing activities of trustees, officers and certain employees ("access persons"). Rule 17j-1 and the Codes of Ethics are designed to prevent unlawful practices in connection with the purchase or sale of securities by access persons. Under each Code of Ethics, access persons are permitted to engage in personal securities transactions, but are required to report their personal securities transactions for monitoring purposes. In addition, certain access persons are required to obtain approval before investing in initial public offerings or private placements, or are prohibited from making such investments. Copies of these Codes of Ethics are on file with the SEC, and are available to the public.
5% AND 25% SHAREHOLDERS
As of November 1, 2010, the following persons were record owners (or to the knowledge of the Trust, beneficial owners) of 5% and 25% or more of the shares of the Funds. Persons who owned of record or beneficially more than 25% of a Fund's outstanding shares may be deemed to control the Fund within the meaning of the 1940 Act. The Trust believes that most of the shares referred to below were held by the below persons in account for their fiduciary, agency or custodial customers.
APPENDIX A -- DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
The following descriptions are summaries of published ratings.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
A-1 This is the highest category by Standard and Poor's (S&P) and indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment is strong. Those issues determined to possess extremely strong safety characteristics are denoted with a plus sign (+) designation. A-2 Capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is satisfactory and the obligation is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. PRIME-1 Issues rated Prime-1 (or supporting institutions) by Moody's have a superior ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. Prime-1 repayment ability will often be evidenced by many of the following characteristics: - Leading market positions in well-established industries. - High rates of return on funds employed. - Conservative capitalization structure with moderate reliance on debt and ample asset protection. - Broad margins in earnings coverage of fixed financial charges and high internal cash generation. - Well-established access to a range of financial markets and assured sources of alternate liquidity. |
The rating F1 (Highest Credit Quality) is the highest commercial rating assigned by Fitch Inc. Paper rated F1 is regarded as having the strongest capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. The rating F2 (Good Credit Quality) is the second highest commercial paper rating assigned by Fitch Inc., which reflects a satisfactory capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, but the margin of safety is not as great as in the case of the higher ratings.
The rating TBW-1 by Thomson BankWatch ("Thomson") indicates a very high likelihood that principal and interest will be paid on a timely basis.
DESCRIPTION OF MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
Moody's highest rating for state and municipal and other short-term notes is MIG-1 and VMIG-l. Short-term municipal securities rated MIG-1 or VMIG-1 are of the best quality. They have strong protection from established cash flows, superior liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing or both. Short-term municipal securities rated MIG-2
or VMIG-2 are of high quality. Margins of protection are ample although not so large as in the MIG-I/VMIG-2 group.
An S&P note rating reflects the liquidity concerns and market access risks unique to notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes maturing beyond three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. The following criteria will be used in making that assessment:
- Amortization Schedule - the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note, and
- Source of Payment - the more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note.
S&P note rating symbols are as follows:
SP-1 Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Those issues determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay a debt service is given a plus (+) designation. SP-2 Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the votes. |
DESCRIPTION OF CORPORATE BOND RATINGS
S&P
Bonds rated AAA have the highest rating S&P assigns to a debt obligation. Such a rating indicates an extremely strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Bonds rated AA also qualify as high-quality debt obligations. Capacity to pay principal and interest is very strong, and in the majority of instances they differ from AAA issues only in small degree. Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for debt in this category than in higher rated categories. Debt rated BB and B is regarded as having predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions. Debt rated BB has less near-term vulnerability to default than other speculative grade debt. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions that could lead to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BBB- rating. Debt rate B has greater vulnerability to default but presently has the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions would likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and
repay principal. The B rating category also is used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
MOODY'S
Bonds that are rated Aaa by Moody's are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a large, or an exceptionally stable, margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues. Bonds rated Aa by Moody's are judged by Moody's to be of high quality by all standards. Together with bonds rated Aaa, they comprise what are generally known as high-grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present that make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than the Aaa securities. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper-medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium-grade obligations (i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured). Interest payments and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well-assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Moody's bond ratings, where specified, are applied to financial contracts, senior bank obligations and insurance company senior policyholder and claims obligations with an original maturity in excess of one-year. Obligations relying upon support mechanisms such as letters-of-credit and bonds of indemnity are excluded unless explicitly rated.
Obligations of a branch of a bank are considered to be domiciled in the country in which the branch is located. Unless noted as an exception, Moody's rating on a bank's ability to repay senior obligations extends only to branches located in countries which carry a Moody's sovereign rating. Such branch obligations are rated at the lower of the bank's rating or Moody's sovereign rating for the bank deposits for the country in which the branch is located.
When the currency in which an obligation is denominated is not the same as the currency of the country in which the obligation is domiciled, Moody's ratings do not incorporate an opinion as to whether payment of the obligation will be affected by the actions of the government controlling the currency of denomination. In addition, risk associated with bilateral conflicts between an investor's home country and either the issuer's home country or the country where an issuer branch is located are not incorporated into Moody's ratings.
Moody's makes no representation that rated bank obligations or insurance company obligations are exempt from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 or issued in conformity with
any other applicable law or regulation. Nor does Moody's represent that any specific bank or insurance company obligation is legally enforceable or is a valid senior obligation of a rated issuer.
Moody's ratings are opinions, not recommendations to buy or sell, and their accuracy is not guaranteed. A rating should be weighed solely as one factor in an investment decision and you should make your own study and evaluation of any issuer whose securities or debt obligations you consider buying or selling.
FITCH INC. ("FITCH")
Bonds rated AAA by Fitch are judged by Fitch to be strictly high grade, broadly marketable, suitable for investment by trustees and fiduciary institutions liable to but slight market fluctuation other than through changes in the money rate. The prime feature of an AAA bond is a showing of earnings several times or many times interest requirements, with such stability of applicable earnings that safety is beyond reasonable question whatever changes occur in conditions. Bonds rated AA by Fitch are judged by Fitch to be of safety virtually beyond question and are readily salable, whose merits are not unlike those of the AAA class, but whose margin of safety is less strikingly broad. The issue may be the obligation of a small company, strongly secured but influenced as to rating by the lesser financial power of the enterprise and more local type market.
Bonds rated A are considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
Bonds rated BBB are considered to be investment grade and of satisfactory credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances, however, are more likely to have adverse impact on these bonds, and therefore impair timely payment. The likelihood that the ratings of these bonds will fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with higher ratings. Bonds rated BB are considered speculative. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal may be affected over time by adverse economic changes. However, business and financial alternatives can be identified which could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt service requirements. Bonds rated B are considered highly speculative. While bonds in this class are currently meeting debt service requirements, the probability of continued timely payment of principal and interest reflects the obligor's limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic activity throughout the life of the issue.
THOMSON
Bonds rated AAA by Thomson BankWatch indicate that the ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis is extremely high. Bonds rated AA indicate a very strong ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis, with limited incremental risk compared to issues rated in the highest category. Bonds rated A indicate the ability to repay principal and interest is strong. Issues rated A could be more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings.
Bonds rated BBB (the lowest investment-grade category) indicate an acceptable capacity to repay principal and interest. Issues rated "BBB" are, however, more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings.While not investment grade, the BB rating suggests that the likelihood of default is considerably less than
for lower-rated issues. However, there are significant uncertainties that could affect the ability to adequately service debt obligations. Issues rated B show a higher degree of uncertainty and therefore greater likelihood of default than higher-rated issues. Adverse developments could negatively affect the payment of interest and principal on a timely basis.
APPENDIX B
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Frost Investment Advisors has adopted proxy voting policies and procedures (the "Proxy Voting Policy") for the voting of proxies on behalf of client accounts for which FIA has voting discretion, including the Frost Investment Advisors Funds. Under the Proxy Voting Policy, Fund shares are to be voted in the best interests of the Funds.
FIA has retained an independent third party (the "Service Firm") to review proxy proposals and to vote proxies in a manner consistent with an approved set of guidelines (the "Proxy Guidelines"). The Proxy Guidelines are provided by the Service Provider and approved by a Proxy Committee, comprised of senior FIA investment and compliance officers. The Proxy Committee annually adopts the Proxy Guidelines concerning various corporate governance issues. The Proxy Committee has the ultimate responsibility for the content, interpretation and application of the Proxy Guidelines and may apply these Proxy Guidelines with a measure of flexibility. FIA's Compliance Officer shall monitor the Service Firm to assure that all proxies are being properly voted and appropriate records are being retained.
Except as otherwise provided in the Proxy Voting Policy, the Proxy Committee may overrule the Service Firm and assert its authority to vote the proxies itself in instances where it is in disagreement with the Service Firm. The Proxy Committee may choose to vote contrary to the recommendations of the Service Firm, if it determines that such action is in the best interests of a Fund. In exercising its discretion, the Proxy Committee may take into account a variety of factors relating to the matter under consideration, the nature of the proposal and the company involved. As a result, the Proxy Committee may vote in one manner in the case of one company and in a different manner in the case of another where, for example, the past history of the company, the character and integrity of its management, the role of outside directors, and the company's record of producing performance for investors justifies a high degree of confidence in the company and the effect of the proposal on the value of the investment.
Similarly, poor past performance, uncertainties about management and future directions, and other factors may lead the Proxy Committee to conclude that particular proposals present unacceptable investment risks and should not be supported. The Proxy Committee also evaluates proposals in context. A particular proposal may be acceptable standing alone, but objectionable when part of an existing or proposed package. Special circumstances may also justify casting different votes for different clients with respect to the same proxy vote.
FIA may occasionally be subject to conflicts of interest in the voting of proxies due to business or personal relationships with persons having an interest in the outcome of certain votes. For example, FIA or its affiliates may provide trust, custody, investment management, brokerage, underwriting, banking and related services to accounts owned or controlled by companies whose management is soliciting proxies. Occasionally, FIA may also have business or personal relationships with other proponents of proxy proposals, participants in proxy contests, corporate directors or candidates for directorships. FIA may also be required to vote proxies for securities issued by Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc. or its affiliates or on matters in which FIA has a direct financial interest, such as shareholder approval of a change in the advisory fees paid by a Fund.
FIA seeks to address such conflicts of interest through various measures, including the establishment, composition and authority of the Proxy Committee and the retention of the Service
Firm to perform proxy review and vote recommendation functions. The Proxy Committee has the responsibility to determine whether a proxy vote involves a potential conflict of interest and how the conflict should be addressed in conformance with the Proxy Voting Policy. The Proxy Committee would normally resolve such conflicts by allowing the Service Firm to vote in accordance with the Proxy Guidelines.
FIA may choose to instruct the Service Firm not to vote proxies in certain situations or for a Fund. This may occur, for example, in situations where the exercise of voting rights could restrict the ability to freely trade the security in question (as is the case, for example, in certain foreign jurisdictions known as "blocking markets"). In circumstances in which the Service Firm does not provide recommendations for a particular proxy, the Proxy Committee may obtain recommendations from analysts at FIA who review the issuer in question or the industry in general. The Proxy Committee will apply the Proxy Guidelines as discussed above to any such recommendation.
The Funds' proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is available upon request by calling 1-877-71-Frost or by writing to the Funds at Frost Funds P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, MO 64121-9009. In accordance with Securities and Exchange regulations, all Funds file a record of all proxy voting activity for the prior 12 months ending June 30(th). That filing is made on or before August 31(st) of each year.
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Artio Global Management LLC
Proxy Voting Policy
Updated June 2010
A. GENERAL
It is the policy of Artio Global to consider and vote each proxy proposal in the best interests of clients and account beneficiaries with respect to securities held in the accounts of all clients for whom Artio Global provides discretionary investment management services and has authority to vote their proxies.
Artio Global may vote proxies as part of its authority to manage, acquire and dispose of account assets. Artio Global will not vote proxies if the advisory agreement does not provide for Artio Global to vote proxies or the "named fiduciary" for an account has explicitly reserved the authority for itself.
When voting proxies for client accounts, Artio Global's primary objective is to make voting decisions solely in the best interests of clients and account beneficiaries. In fulfilling its obligations to clients, Artio Global will act in a manner deemed to be prudent and diligent and which is intended to enhance the economic value of the underlying securities held in client accounts.
B. PROXY OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE
In order to properly monitor the proxy voting process, a Proxy Oversight Committee ("Committee") shall meet periodically to evaluate the effectiveness of Artio Global's proxy voting process, and to address potential conflicts of interest as they arise. The members of the Committee include the individuals listed in Appendix A (attached hereto), and shall be selected from personnel of Artio Global consisting of executive, compliance, legal, and operations.
The Committee is responsible for:
1. Approving any changes to the Policy;
2. Monitoring to ensure that proxies are voted;
3. Reviewing votes cast to ensure that they are in accordance with the Policy. In furtherance of this responsibility, the Committee shall specifically review instances where a vote was contrary to a position taken in the Policy.
C. PROCEDURES
Artio Global Operations Department ("OPS") is responsible for establishing all new accounts on the Charles River System. A New Account Checklist which is signed and approved by all key departments of Artio Global is circulated along with the agreed upon Investment Guidelines for
that client. OPS will code the applicable client account as "proxy voting" by including it in the proxy voting group on Charles River.
To assist Artio Global in its responsibility for voting proxies and to ensure consistency in voting proxies on behalf of its clients, Artio Global has retained the proxy voting and recording services of RiskMetrics Group ("RMG"). RMG is an independent thirdoparty service that specializes in providing a variety of proxyorelated services to institutional investment managers, plan sponsors, custodians, consultants, and other institutional investors. Artio Global intends to vote in accordance with RMG's recommendations to address, among other things, any material conflicts of interests between clients and the interests of Artio Global or its affiliates. Artio Global has instructed RMG not to vote proxies when liquidity of client accounts could be adversely affected.
In order to ensure that RMG performs its delegated duties, OPS will provide the client's custodian a letter authorizing the custodian to forward proxy ballots to RMG. In addition, RMG is sent a copy of this letter so that it may initiate a relationship with the custodian. RMG will provide an exception list of those accounts for which ballots are not yet being received. OPS will follow up with the relevant custodian to resolve outstanding matters. Northern Trust will also supply at least on a monthly basis a full listing of positions so that RMG may ensure that they are completely voting all ballots.
D. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
Artio Global is sensitive of conflicts of interest that may arise in the proxy decisionomaking process from a policy standpoint, and seeks to avoid any undue or inappropriate influence in the proxy voting process. The objective is to ensure that Portfolio Management exercise overrides of RMG votes only in the clients' best interests. The Committee provides an additional level of independence to ensure overrides are properly exercised.
Artio Global has identified the following potential conflicts of interest:
i. A principal of Artio Global or any person involved in the proxy decisionomaking process currently serves on the company's Board or is an executive officer of the company.
ii. An immediate family member of a principal of Artio Global or any person involved in the proxy decisionomaking process currently serves as a director or executive officer of the company.
iii. The company is a client of the firm (or an affiliate of a client), provided that any client relationship that represents less than 2.5% of the firm's revenues or less than $75,000 in annual revenues shall be presumed to be immaterial.
This list is not intended to be exclusive. All employees are obligated to disclose any potential conflict to the Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO") of Artio Global.
Under such circumstances, Artio Global will vote in accordance with RMG' predetermined guidelines, except as described below in section E.
In furtherance of Artio Global's goal to vote proxies in the best interests of clients, Artio Global follows procedures designed to identify and address material conflicts that may arise between Artio Global's interests and those of its clients before voting proxies on behalf of such clients.
Artio Global employees are required to submit an annual questionnaire which include a disclosure of potential conflicts of interests. The Code of Ethics alerts Artio Global employees that they are under an obligation (i) to be aware of the potential for conflicts of interest on the part of Artio Global with respect to voting proxies on behalf of client accounts both as a result of their personal relationships and due to special circumstances that may arise during the conduct of Artio Global's business, and (ii) to bring conflicts of interest of which they become aware to the attention of Legal and Compliance.
The Committee should review and address conflicts of interest brought to its attention. The Committee shall be comprised of such Artio Global personnel as are designated from time to time.
The Committee shall determine whether a conflict of interest is material. A conflict of interest will be considered material to the extent that it is determined that such conflict is likely to influence, or appear to influence, Artio Global's decisionomaking in voting the proxy. All materiality determinations will be based on an assessment of the particular facts and circumstances. Artio Global Compliance shall maintain a written record of all materiality determinations made by the Committee.
If it is determined by the Committee that a conflict of interest is not material, Artio Global may vote proxies notwithstanding the existence of the conflict.
If it is determined by the Committee that a conflict of interest is material, the Committee shall determine an appropriate method to resolve such conflict of interest before the proxy affected by the conflict of interest is voted. Such determination shall be based on the particular facts and circumstances, including the importance of the proxy issue, the nature of the conflict of interest, etc. Such methods may include: (i) disclosing the conflict to clients and obtaining their consent before voting; (ii) suggesting to clients that they engage another party to vote the proxy on their behalf; (iii) in the case of a conflict of interest resulting from a particular employee's personal relationships, removing such employee from the decisionomaking process with respect to such proxy vote; or (iv) such other method as is deemed appropriate given the particular facts and circumstances, including the importance of the proxy issue, the nature of the conflict of interest, etc (especially in the case of an apparent, as opposed to actual, conflict of interest, the Committee may resolve such conflict of interest by satisfying itself that Artio Global's proposed vote on a proxy issue is in the best interest of client accounts and is not being influenced by the conflict of interest.).
E. OVERRIDES OF RMG
Artio Global has provided implied consent to RMG to vote in accordance with their recommendation and will generally do so. Artio Global Portfolio Management also retains the ability to override RMG votes where the portfolio manager believes the override is in the clients' best interests.
In cases where an override is requested, the portfolio manager must complete the Artio Global Proxy Override Request Form (attached as Appendix B) explaining the rationale for deviating from the RMG vote and why the clients' interests are better served by deviating from the RMG recommendation. The completed Artio Global Proxy Override Request Form is then submitted to the Chief Investment Officer ("CIO") or Deputy Chief Investment Officer for approval.
Criteria to be considered by the CIO in granting or denying a request to override include:
a) any actual or perceived conflicts of interest;
b) the size of the investment in dollars;
c) the size of the investment relative to the applicable Fund (in basis points);
d) the percent of ownership Artio Global controls in the subject company;
e) the significance of the issue considered in the proxy;
f) the rationale for the need for an override as detailed in the memorandum from Portfolio Management;
g) any other additional information that supports the override provided by the requesting portfolio manager.
Upon CIO approval, the completed Proxy Override Request Form and additional information is then submitted to the Committee to perform a reasonable assessment of compliance with these procedures concerning potential conflicts of interest. If the Committee is not satisfied that sufficient grounds are met to grant an override, the override request may be rejected.
Upon approval by the Committee, Client Support will initiate the submission of voting instructions through RMG. Committee minutes and all such documentation shall be maintained as part of the firm's records.
F. MONITORING
RMG will provide adohoc reporting as well as quarterly board reporting for client which details the voting record and denotes any exceptions wherein Artio Global has deviated from its normal policy. If such activity is detected, OPS will elevate the report to Senior Management, including the Head of Legal and Compliance and the CCO. Artio Global Portfolio Management will provide the CCO a written explanation of the reason for the exception. All such records shall be maintained as part of the firm's books and records.
G. REPORTING AND DISCLOSURE FOR ARTIO GLOBAL
Once each year, Artio Global shall provide the entire voting record electronically in accordance with the posting of such proxy voting records to the Artio Global Funds website (NPX filing). With respect to those proxies that the Committee has identified as involving a conflict of interest, the Committee shall submit a separate report indicating the nature of the conflict of interest and how that conflict was resolved with respect to the voting of the proxy.
Artio Global shall disclose within its Form ADV how other clients can obtain information on how their securities were voted. Artio Global shall also describe this proxy voting policy and procedures within the Form ADV, along with a disclosure that a client shall be provided a copy upon request. A description of the proxy voting policy and procedures is also available upon request on the Artio Global Funds and SEC websites. Information regarding how the Artio Global Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent fiscal year ended June 30 is available on the Artio Global Funds and SEC website as well.
H. Recordkeeping
Artio Global shall retain records relating to the voting of proxies, including:
1. A copy of this proxy voting policy and procedures and RMG Proxy Voting Guidelines relating to the voting of proxies.
2. A copy of each proxy statement received by Artio Global regarding portfolio securities in Artio Global client accounts.
3. A record of each vote cast by Artio Global on behalf of a client.
4. A copy of each written client request for information on how Artio Global voted proxies on behalf of the client account, and a copy of any written response by Artio Global to the client account.
5. A copy of any document prepared by Artio Global that was material to making a decision regarding how to vote proxies or that memorializes the basis for the decision.
6. A copy of all submitted Proxy Override Requests.
Artio Global shall rely on proxy statements filed on the SEC's EDGAR system instead of maintaining its own copies and on proxy statements and records of proxy votes cast by Artio Global maintained at RMG. Artio Global shall obtain an undertaking from RMG to provide a copy of the documents promptly upon request.
These records shall be retained for five (5) years from the end of the fiscal year during which the last entry was made on such record and during the first two (2) years onsite at the appropriate office of Artio Global.
2010 U.S. PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES SUMMARY
FEBRUARY 25, 2010
RISKMETRICS GROUP
2010 U.S. PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES SUMMARY
EFFECTIVE FOR MEETINGS ON OR AFTER FEB. 1, 2010
Published December 31, 2009
Updated Feb. 25, 2010
The following is a condensed version of the proxy voting recommendations contained in the RiskMetrics' (RMG) U.S. Proxy Voting Manual.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents ......................................................... 9
1. ROUTINE/MISCELLANEOUS .................................................. 16 Adjourn Meeting .................................................... 16 Amend Quorum Requirements .......................................... 16 Amend Minor Bylaws ................................................. 16 Change Company Name ................................................ 16 Change Date, Time, or Location of Annual Meeting ................... 16 Other Business ..................................................... 16 Audit-Related ........................................................ 16 Auditor Indemnification and Limitation of Liability ................ 16 Auditor Ratification ............................................... 17 Shareholder Proposals Limiting Non-Audit Services .................. 17 Shareholder Proposals on Audit Firm Rotation ....................... 17 2. BOARD OF DIRECTORS: .................................................... 19 Voting on Director Nominees in Uncontested Elections ................. 19 Board Accountability ............................................... 19 Problematic Takeover Defenses ................................... 19 Problematic Audit-Related Practices ............................. 20 Problematic Compensation Practices .............................. 21 Other Problematic Governance Practices .......................... 21 Board Responsiveness ............................................... 22 Director Independence .............................................. 22 Director Competence ................................................ 22 2010 RMG Categorization of Directors ............................... 24 Board-Related Management Proposals .................................... 25 Age Limits ......................................................... 25 Board Size ......................................................... 26 Classification/Declassification of the Board ....................... 26 Cumulative Voting .................................................. 26 B-9 |
Director and Officer Indemnification and Liability Protection ...... 26 Establish/Amend Nominee Qualifications ............................. 26 Filling Vacancies/Removal of Directors ............................. 26 Majority Vote Threshold for Director Elections ..................... 27 Term Limits ........................................................ 27 Board-Related Shareholder Proposals/Initiatives ...................... 27 Age Limits ......................................................... 27 Annual Election (Declassification) of the Board .................... 27 CEO Succession Planning ............................................ 27 Cumulative Voting .................................................. 27 Establish/Amend Nominee Qualifications ............................. 28 Establishment of Board Committees Shareholder Proposals ............ 28 Establishment of Board Policy on Shareholder Engagement ............ 29 Filling Vacancies/Removal of Directors ............................. 29 Independent Chair (Separate Chair/CEO) ............................. 29 Majority of Independent Directors/Establishment of Independent Committees ....................................................... 30 Majority Vote Shareholder Proposals ................................ 30 Open Access (Proxy Access) ......................................... 31 Proxy Contests- Voting for Director Nominees in Contested Elections 31 Require More Nominees than Open Seats .............................. 31 Term Limits ........................................................ 31 Vote No Campaigns .................................................. 31 3. SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS & DEFENSES .......................................... 32 Advance Notice Requirements for Shareholder Proposals/Nominations .. 32 Amend Bylaws without Shareholder Consent ........................... 32 Confidential Voting ................................................ 32 Control Share Acquisition Provisions ............................... 32 Control Share Cash-Out Provisions .................................. 33 Disgorgement Provisions ............................................ 33 Fair Price Provisions .............................................. 33 Freeze-Out Provisions .............................................. 33 Greenmail .......................................................... 33 Net Operating Loss (NOL) Protective Amendment ...................... 33 Poison Pills- Shareholder Proposals to put Pill to a Vote and/or Adopt a Pill Policy .................................. 34 |
Poison Pills- Management Proposals to Ratify Poison Pill ........... 34 Poison Pills- Management Proposals to ratify a Pill to preserve Net Operating Losses (NOLs) .......................................... 35 Reimbursing Proxy Solicitation Expenses ............................ 35 Reincorporation Proposals .......................................... 35 Shareholder Ability to Act by Written Consent ...................... 36 Shareholder Ability to Call Special Meetings ....................... 36 Stakeholder Provisions ............................................. 36 State Antitakeover Statutes ........................................ 36 Supermajority Vote Requirements .................................... 36 4. CAPITAL/RESTRUCTURING .................................................. 38 Capital .............................................................. 38 Adjustments to Par Value of Common Stock ........................... 38 Common Stock Authorization ......................................... 38 Issue Stock for Use with Rights Plan ............................... 38 Preemptive Rights .................................................. 38 Preferred Stock .................................................... 38 Recapitalization ................................................... 39 Reverse Stock Splits ............................................... 39 Share Repurchase Programs .......................................... 39 Stock Distributions: Splits and Dividends .......................... 40 Tracking Stock ..................................................... 40 Restructuring ........................................................ 40 Appraisal Rights ................................................... 40 Asset Purchases .................................................... 40 Asset Sales ........................................................ 40 Bundled Proposals .................................................. 41 Conversion of Securities ........................................... 41 Corporate Reorganization/Debt Restructuring/Prepackaged Bankruptcy Plans/Reverse Leveraged Buyouts/Wrap Plans ....................... 41 Formation of Holding Company ....................................... 41 Going Private and Going Dark Transactions (LBOs and Minority Squeeze-outs) .................................................... 42 Joint Ventures ..................................................... 42 Liquidations ....................................................... 43 Mergers and Acquisitions ........................................... 43 |
Plans of Reorganization (Bankruptcy) ............................... 44 Private Placements/Warrants/Convertible Debentures ................. 44 Special Purpose Acquisition Corporations (SPACs) ................... 45 Spinoffs ........................................................... 46 Value Maximization Shareholder Proposals ........................... 47 5. COMPENSATION ........................................................... 48 Executive Pay Evaluation ............................................. 48 Advisory Votes on Executive Compensation- Management Proposals (Management Say-on-Pay) .......................................... 48 Pay for Performance ................................................ 49 Problematic Pay Practices .......................................... 50 Non-Performance based Compensation Elements ........................ 50 Incentives that may Motivate Excessive Risk-Taking ................. 51 Options Backdating ................................................. 51 Board Communications and Responsiveness ............................ 52 Equity-Based and Other Incentive Plans ............................... 52 Cost of Equity Plans ............................................... 53 Repricing Provisions ............................................... 53 Three-Year Burn Rate/Burn Rate Commitment .......................... 53 Burn Rate Table for 2010 ........................................... 55 Pay-for-Performance- Impact on Equity Plans ........................ 56 Liberal Definition of Change-in-Control ............................ 56 Problematic Pay Practices .......................................... 56 Specific Treatment of Certain Award Types in Equity Plan Evaluations: ..................................................... 56 Dividend Equivalent Rights ......................................... 56 Liberal Share Recycling Provisions ................................. 56 Operating Partnership (OP) units in Equity Plan analysis of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) ................................... 57 Option Overhang Cost ............................................... 57 Other Compensation Plans ............................................. 58 401(k) Employee Benefit Plans ...................................... 58 Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) ............................. 58 Employee Stock Purchase Plans-- Qualified Plans .................... 58 Employee Stock Purchase Plans-- Non-Qualified Plans ................ 58 Incentive Bonus Plans and Tax Deductibility Proposals (OBRA- Related Compensation Proposals) .................................. 59 |
Option Exchange Programs/Repricing Options ......................... 59 Stock Plans in Lieu of Cash ........................................ 60 Transfer Stock Option (TSO) Programs ............................... 60 Director Compensation ................................................ 61 Equity Plans for Non-Employee Directors ............................ 61 Director Retirement Plans .......................................... 61 Shareholder Proposals on Compensation ................................ 61 Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation (Say-on-Pay) ............... 61 Adopt Anti-Hedging/Pledging/Speculative Investments Policy ......... 62 Bonus Banking/Bonus Banking "Plus" ................................. 62 Compensation Consultants- Disclosure of Board or Company's Utilization ...................................................... 62 Disclosure/Setting Levels or Types of Compensation for Executives and Directors .................................................... 62 Golden Coffins/Executive Death Benefits ............................ 62 Hold Equity Past Retirement or for a Significant Period of Time .... 63 Non-Deductible Compensation ........................................ 63 Pay for Superior Performance ....................................... 63 Performance-Based Awards ........................................... 64 Pension Plan Income Accounting ..................................... 65 Pre-Arranged Trading Plans (10b5-1 Plans) .......................... 65 Prohibit CEOs from serving on Compensation Committees .............. 65 Recoup Bonuses ..................................................... 65 Severance Agreements for Executives/Golden Parachutes .............. 65 Share Buyback Holding Periods ...................................... 66 Stock Ownership or Holding Period Guidelines ....................... 66 Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans (SERPs) .................... 67 Termination of Employment Prior to Severance Payment and Eliminating Accelerated Vesting of Unvested Equity ................. 67 Tax Gross-Up Proposals ............................................. 67 6. SOCIAL/ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES ............................................ 68 Overall Approach ..................................................... 68 Animal Welfare ....................................................... 68 Animal Testing ..................................................... 68 Animal Welfare Policies ............................................ 69 Controlled Atmosphere Killing (CAK) ................................ 69 |
Consumer Issues ...................................................... 69 Genetically Modified Ingredients ................................... 69 Consumer Lending ................................................... 70 Pharmaceutical Pricing, Access to Medicines, and Product Reimportation .................................................... 70 Product Safety and Toxic/Hazardous Materials ....................... 70 Tobacco ............................................................ 71 Diversity ............................................................ 71 Board Diversity .................................................... 71 Equality of Opportunity ............................................ 72 Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation, and Domestic Partner Benefits . 72 Climate Change and the Environment ................................... 73 Climate Change ..................................................... 73 Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) ..................... 73 Energy Efficiency .................................................. 73 Facility and Operational Safety/Security ........................... 73 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions ..................................... 74 Operations in Protected Areas ...................................... 74 Recycling .......................................................... 74 Renewable Energy ................................................... 75 General Corporate Issues ............................................. 75 Charitable Contributions ........................................... 75 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Compensation-Related Proposals ........................................................ 75 Health Pandemics ................................................... 76 Lobbying Expenditures/Initiatives .................................. 76 Political Contributions and Trade Associations Spending ............ 76 International Issues, Labor Issues, and Human Rights ................. 77 Community Social and Environmental Impact Assessments .............. 77 Foreign Military Sales/Offsets ..................................... 77 Internet Privacy and Censorship .................................... 77 Labor and Human Rights Standards ................................... 78 MacBride Principles ................................................ 78 Nuclear and Depleted Uranium Weapons ............................... 78 Operations in High Risk Markets .................................... 79 Outsourcing/Offshoring ............................................. 79 |
Sustainability ....................................................... 79 Sustainability Reporting ........................................... 79 7. MUTUAL FUND PROXIES .................................................... 80 Election of Directors .............................................. 80 Converting Closed-end Fund to Open-end Fund ........................ 80 Proxy Contests ..................................................... 80 Investment Advisory Agreements ..................................... 80 Approving New Classes or Series of Shares .......................... 81 Preferred Stock Proposals .......................................... 81 1940 Act Policies .................................................. 81 Changing a Fundamental Restriction to a Nonfundamental Restriction . 81 Change Fundamental Investment Objective to Nonfundamental .......... 81 Name Change Proposals .............................................. 81 Change in Fund's Subclassification ................................. 82 Disposition of Assets/Termination/Liquidation ...................... 82 Changes to the Charter Document .................................... 82 Changing the Domicile of a Fund .................................... 83 Authorizing the Board to Hire and Terminate Subadvisors Without Shareholder Approval ............................................. 83 Distribution Agreements ............................................ 83 Master-Feeder Structure ............................................ 83 Mergers ............................................................ 83 Shareholder Proposals for Mutual Funds ............................... 84 Establish Director Ownership Requirement ........................... 84 Reimburse Shareholder for Expenses Incurred ........................ 84 Terminate the Investment Advisor ................................... 84 |
1. Routine/Miscellaneous
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.
Vote FOR proposals that relate specifically to soliciting votes for a merger or
transaction if supporting that merger or transaction. Vote AGAINST proposals if
the wording is too vague or if the proposal includes "other business."
* * * * *
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, and/or location of the
annual meeting unless the proposed change is unreasonable.
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals to change the date, time, and/or location of
the annual meeting unless the current scheduling or location is unreasonable.
* * * * *
OTHER BUSINESS
Vote AGAINST proposals to approve other business when it appears as voting item.
* * * * *
AUDIT-RELATED
AUDITOR INDEMNIFICATION AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Consider the issue of auditor indemnification and limitation of liability on a CASE-BY-CASE basis. Factors to be assessed include, but are not limited to:
o The terms of the auditor agreement- the degree to which these agreements impact shareholders' rights;
o Motivation and rationale for establishing the agreements;
o Quality of disclosure; and
o Historical practices in the audit area.
WTHHOLD or vote AGAINST members of an audit committee in situations where there is persuasive evidence that the audit committee entered into an inappropriate indemnification agreement with its auditor that limits the ability of the company, or its shareholders, to pursue legitimate legal recourse against the audit firm.
* * * * *
AUDITOR RATIFICATION
Vote FOR proposals to ratify auditors, unless any of the following apply:
o An auditor has a financial interest in or association with the company, and is therefore not independent;
o 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;
o Poor accounting practices are identified that rise to a serious level of concern, such as: fraud; misapplication of GAAP; and material weaknesses identified in Section 404 disclosures; or
o Fees for non-audit services ("Other" fees) are excessive.
Non-audit fees are excessive if:
o Non-audit ("other") fees >audit fees + audit-related fees + tax compliance/preparation fees
Tax compliance and preparation include the preparation of original and amended
tax returns, refund claims and tax payment planning. All other services in the
tax category, such as tax advice, planning or consulting should be added to
"Other" fees. If the breakout of tax fees cannot be determined, add all tax
fees to "Other" fees.
In circumstances where "Other" fees include fees related to significant
one-time capital structure events: initial public offerings, bankruptcy
emergence, and spin-offs; and the company makes public disclosure of the amount
and nature of those fees which are an exception to the standard "non-audit fee"
category, then such fees may be excluded from the non-audit fees considered in
determining the ratio of non-audit to audit/audit-related fees/tax compliance
and preparation for purposes of determining whether non-audit fees are
excessive.
* * * * *
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS LIMITING NON-AUDIT SERVICES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals asking companies to prohibit or limit their auditors from engaging in non-audit services.
* * * * *
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS ON AUDIT FIRM ROTATION
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals asking for audit firm rotation, taking into account:
o The tenure of the audit firm;
o The length of rotation specified in the proposal;
o Any significant audit-related issues at the company;
o The number of Audit Committee meetings held each year;
o The number of financial experts serving on the committee; and
o Whether the company has a periodic renewal process where the auditor is evaluated for both audit quality and competitive price.
* * * * *
2. BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Voting on Director Nominees in Uncontested Elections
Votes on director nominees should be determined on a CASE-BY-CASE basis. Four fundamental principles apply when determining votes on director nominees:
o BOARD ACCOUNTABILITY: Practices that promote accountability include:
transparency into a company's governance practices; annual board
elections; and providing shareholders the ability to remove
problematic directors and to vote on takeover defenses or other
charter/bylaw amendments. These practices help reduce the opportunity
for management entrenchment.
o BOARD RESPONSIVENESS: Directors should be responsive to shareholders, particularly in regard to shareholder proposals that receive a majority vote and to tender offers where a majority of shares are tendered. Furthermore, shareholders should expect directors to devote sufficient time and resources to oversight of the company.
o DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE: Without independence from management, the board may be unwilling or unable to effectively set company strategy and scrutinize performance or executive compensation.
o DIRECTOR COMPETENCE: Companies should seek directors who can add value to the board through specific skills or expertise and who can devote sufficient time and commitment to serve effectively. While directors should not be constrained by arbitrary limits such as age or term limits, directors who are unable to attend board and committee meetings and/or who are overextended (i. e. serving on too many boards) raise concern on the director's ability to effectively serve in shareholders' best interests.
BOARD ACCOUNTABILITY
PROBLEMATIC TAKEOVER DEFENSES
VOTE WITHHOLD/AGAINST(1) the entire board of directors (except new nominees(2),
who should be considered on a CASE-by-CASE basis), if:
(2) A "NEW NOMINEE" IS ANY CURRENT NOMINEE WHO HAS NOT ALREADY BEEN ELECTED BY SHAREHOLDERS AND WHO JOINED THE BOARD AFTER THE PROBLEMATIC ACTION IN QUESTION TRANSPIRED. IF RMG CANNOT DETERMINE WHETHER THE NOMINEE JOINED THE BOARD BEFORE OR AFTER THE PROBLEMATIC ACTION TRANSPIRED, THE NOMINEE WILL BE CONSIDERED A "NEW NOMINEE" IF HE OR SHE JOINED THE BOARD WITHIN THE 12 MONTHS PRIOR TO THE UPCOMING SHAREHOLDER MEETING.
o The board is classified, and a continuing director responsible for a problematic governance issue at the board/committee level that would warrant a withhold/against vote recommendation is not up for election -- any or all appropriate nominees (except new) may be held accountable;
o The company's poison pill has a "dead-hand" or "modified dead-hand" feature. Vote withhold/against every year until this feature is removed;
o The board adopts a poison pill with a term of more than 12 months ("long-term pill"), or renews any existing pill, including any "short-term" pill (12 months or less), without shareholder approval. A commitment or policy that puts a newly-adopted pill to a binding shareholder vote may potentially offset an adverse vote recommendation. Review such companies with classified boards every year, and such companies with annually-elected boards at least once every three years, and vote AGAINST or WITHHOLD votes from all nominees if the company still maintains a non-shareholder-approved poison pill. This policy applies to all companies adopting or renewing pills after the announcement of this policy (Nov 19, 2009);
o The board makes a material adverse change to an existing poison pill without shareholder approval.
Vote CASE-By-CASE on all nominees if the board adopts a poison pill with a term of 12 months or less ("short-term pill") without shareholder approval, taking into account the following factors:
o The date of the pill's adoption relative to the date of the next meeting of shareholders- i. e. whether the company had time to put the pill on ballot for shareholder ratification given the circumstances;
o The issuer's rationale;
o The issuer's governance structure and practices; and
o The issuer's track record of accountability to shareholders.
PROBLEMATIC AUDIT-RELATED PRACTICES
Generally, vote AGAINST or WITHHOLD from the members of the Audit Committee
if:
o The non-audit fees paid to the auditor are excessive (see discussion under "Auditor Ratification");
o The company receives an adverse opinion on the company's financial statements from its auditor; or
o There is persuasive evidence that the audit committee entered into an inappropriate indemnification agreement with its auditor that limits the ability of the company, or its shareholders, to pursue legitimate legal recourse against the audit firm.
Vote CASE-by-CASE on members of the Audit Committee and/or the full board if:
o Poor accounting practices are identified that rise to a level of serious concern, such as: fraud; misapplication of GAAP; and material weaknesses identified in Section 404 disclosures. Examine the severity, breadth, chronological sequence and duration, as well
as the company's efforts at remediation or corrective actions, in determining whether WITHHOLD/AGAINST votes are warranted.
PROBLEMATIC COMPENSATION PRACTICES
VOTE WITHHOLD/AGAINST the members of the Compensation Committee and potentially
the full board if:
o There is a negative correlation between chief executive pay and company performance (see PAY FOR PERFORMANCE Policy);
o The company reprices underwater options for stock, cash, or other consideration without prior shareholder approval, even if allowed in the firm's equity plan;
o The company fails to submit one-time TRANSFERS OF STOCK OPTIONS to a shareholder vote;
o The company fails to fulfill the terms of a BURN RATE COMMITMENT made to shareholders;
o The company has PROBLEMATIC PAY PRACTICES. Problematic pay practices may warrant withholding votes from the CEO and potentially the entire board as well.
OTHER PROBLEMATIC GOVERNANCE PRACTICES
VOTE WITHHOLD/AGAINST the entire board of directors (except new nominees, who
should be considered on a CASE-by-CASE basis), if:
o The company's proxy indicates that not all directors attended 75 percent of the aggregate board and committee meetings, but fails to provide the required disclosure of the names of the director(s) involved. If this information cannot be obtained, withhold from all incumbent directors;
o The board lacks accountability and oversight, coupled with sustained poor performance relative to peers. Sustained poor performance is measured by one- and three-year total shareholder returns in the bottom half of a company's four-digit GICS industry group (Russell 3000 companies only). Take into consideration the company's five-year total shareholder return and five-year operational metrics. Problematic provisions include but are not limited to:
- A classified board structure;
- A supermajority vote requirement;
- Majority vote standard for director elections with no carve out for contested elections;
- The inability for shareholders to call special meetings;
- The inability for shareholders to act by written consent;
- A dual-class structure; and/or
- A non-shareholder approved poison pill.
Under extraordinary circumstances, vote AGAINST or WITHHOLD from directors individually, committee members, or the entire board, due to:
o Material failures of governance, stewardship, or fiduciary responsibilities at the company;
o Failure to replace management as appropriate; or
o Egregious actions related to the director(s)' service on other boards that raise substantial doubt about his or her ability to effectively oversee management and serve the best interests of shareholders at any company.
BOARD RESPONSIVENESS
Vote WITHHOLD/AGAINST the entire board of directors (except new nominees, who
should be considered on a CASE-by-CASE basis), if:
o The board failed to act on a shareholder proposal that received approval by a majority of the shares outstanding the previous year (a management proposal with other than a FOR recommendation by management will not be considered as sufficient action taken);
o The board failed to act on a shareholder proposal that received approval of the majority of shares cast for the previous two consecutive years (a management proposal with other than a FOR recommendation by management will not be considered as sufficient action taken);
o The board failed to act on takeover offers where the majority of the shareholders tendered their shares; or
o At the previous board election, any director received more than 50 percent withhold/against votes of the shares cast and the company has failed to address the issue(s) that caused the high withhold/against vote.
DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
Vote WITHHOLD/AGAINST Inside Directors and Affiliated Outside Directors (per
the CATEGORIZATION OF DIRECTORS) when:
o The inside or affiliated outside director serves on any of the three key committees: audit, compensation, or nominating;
o The company lacks an audit, compensation, or nominating committee so that the full board functions as that committee;
o The company lacks a formal nominating committee, even if the board attests that the independent directors fulfill the functions of such a committee; or
o The full board is less than majority independent.
DIRECTOR COMPETENCE
Vote AGAINST or WITHHOLD from individual directors who:
o Attend less than 75 percent of the board and committee meetings without a valid excuse, such as illness, service to the nation, work on behalf of the company, or funeral obligations. If the company provides meaningful public or private disclosure explaining the director's absences, evaluate the information on a CASE-BY-CASE basis taking into account the following factors:
- Degree to which absences were due to an unavoidable conflict;
- Pattern of absenteeism; and
- Other extraordinary circumstances underlying the director's absence;
o Sit on more than six public company boards;
o Are CEOs of public companies who sit on the boards of more than two public companies besides their own-- withhold only at their outside boards.
* * * * *
2010 RMG CATEGORIZATION OF DIRECTORS
1. INSIDE DIRECTOR (I)
1.1. Employee of the company or one of its affiliates(i).
1.2. Among the five most highly paid individuals (excluding interim CEO).
1.3. Listed as an officer as defined under Section 16 of the Securities
and Exchange Act of 1934 ("Section 16 officer")(ii).
1.4. Current interim CEO.
1.5. Beneficial owner of more than 50 percent of the company's voting
power (this may be aggregated if voting power is distributed among
more than one member of a defined group).
2. AFFILIATED OUTSIDE DIRECTOR (AO)
BOARD ATTESTATION
2.1. Board attestation that an outside director is not independent.
FORMER CEO
2.2. Former CEO of the company(iii,iv).
2.3. Former CEO of an acquired company within the past five years(iv).
2.4. Former interim CEO if the service was longer than 18 months. If the
service was between twelve and eighteen months an assessment of the
interim CEO's employment agreement will be made(v).
NON-CEO EXECUTIVES
2.5. Former Section 16 officer(ii) of the company, an affiliate(i) or an
acquired firm within the past five years.
2.6. Section 16 officer(ii) of a former parent or predecessor firm at the
time the company was sold or split off from the parent/predecessor
within the past five years.
2.7. Section 16 officer(ii), former Section 16 officer, or general or
limited partner of a joint venture or partnership with the company.
FAMILY MEMBERS
2.8. Immediate family member(vi) of a current or former Section 16
officer(ii) of the company or its affiliates(i) within the last five
years.
2.9. Immediate family member(vi) of a current employee of company or its
affiliates(i) where additional factors raise concern (which may
include, but are not limited to, the following: a director related to
numerous employees; the company or its affiliates employ relatives of
numerous board members; or a non-Section 16 officer in a key
strategic role).
TRANSACTIONAL, PROFESSIONAL, FINANCIAL, AND CHARITABLE RELATIONSHIPS
2.10. Currently provides (or an immediate family member(vi) provides)
professional services(vii) to the company, to an affiliate(i) of the
company or an individual officer of the company or one of its
affiliates in excess of $10,000 per year.
2.11. Is (or an immediate family member(vi) is) a partner in, or a
controlling shareholder or an employee of, an organization which
provides professional services(vii) to the company, to an affiliate
(i) of the company, or an individual officer of the company or one
of its affiliates in excess of $10,000 per year.
2.12. Has (or an immediate family member(vi) has) any material
transactional relationship(viii) with the company or its affiliates
(i) (excluding investments in the company through a private
placement).
2.13. Is (or an immediate family member(vi) is) a partner in, or a
controlling shareholder or an executive officer of, an organization
which has any material transactional relationship(viii) with the
company or its affiliates(i) (excluding investments in the company
through a private placement).
2.14. Is (or an immediate family member(vi) is) a trustee, director, or
employee of a charitable or non-profit organization that receives
material grants or endowments(viii) from the company or its
affiliates(i).
OTHER RELATIONSHIPS
2.15. Party to a voting agreement(ix) to vote in line with management on
proposals being brought to shareholder vote.
2.16. Has (or an immediate family member(vi) has) an interlocking
relationship as defined by the SEC involving members of the board of
directors or its Compensation Committee(x).
2.17. Founder(xi) of the company but not currently an employee.
2.18. Any material(xii) relationship with the company.
3. INDEPENDENT OUTSIDE DIRECTOR (IO)
3.1. No material(xii) connection to the company other than a board seat.
FOOTNOTES:
(i) "Affiliate" includes a subsidiary, sibling company, or parent company. RMG uses 50 percent control ownership by the parent company as the standard for applying its affiliate designation.
(ii) "Section 16 officer" (officers subject to Section 16 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934) includes the chief executive, operating, financial, legal, technology, and accounting officers of a company (including the president, treasurer, secretary,
controller, or any vice president in charge of a principal business unit, division, or policy function). A non-employee director serving as an officer due to statutory requirements (e.g. corporate secretary) will be classified as an Affiliated Outsider. If the company provides explicit disclosure that the director is not receiving additional compensation in excess of $10,000 per year for serving in that capacity, then the director will be classified as an Independent Outsider.
(iii) Includes any former CEO of the company prior to the company's initial public offering (IPO).
(iv) When there is a former CEO of a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) serving on the board of an acquired company, RMG will generally classify such directors as independent unless determined otherwise taking into account the following factors: the applicable listing standards determination of such director's independence; any operating ties to the firm; and the existence of any other conflicting relationships or related party transactions.
(v) RMG will look at the terms of the interim CEO's employment contract to determine if it contains severance pay, long-term health and pension benefits, or other such standard provisions typically contained in contracts of permanent, non-temporary CEOs. RMG will also consider if a formal search process was underway for a full-time CEO at the time.
(vi) "Immediate family member" follows the SEC's definition of such and covers spouses, parents, children, step-parents, stepchildren, siblings, in-laws, and any person (other than a tenant or employee) sharing the household of any director, nominee for director, executive officer, or significant shareholder of the company.
(vii) Professional services can be characterized as advisory in nature, generally involve access to sensitive company information or to strategic decision-making, and typically have a commission- or fee-based payment structure. Professional services generally include, but are not limited to the following: investment banking/financial advisory services; commercial banking (beyond deposit services); investment services; insurance services; accounting/audit services; consulting services; marketing services; legal services; property management services; realtor services; lobbying services; executive search services; and IT consulting services. The following would generally be considered transactional relationships and not professional services: deposit services; IT tech support services; educational services; and construction services. The case of participation in a banking syndicate by a non-lead bank should be considered a transactional (and hence subject to the associated materiality test) rather than a professional relationship. "Of Counsel" relationships are only considered immaterial if the individual does not receive any form of compensation (in excess of $10,000 per year) from, or is a retired partner of, the firm providing the professional service. The case of a company providing a professional service to one of its directors or to an entity with which one of its directors is affiliated, will be considered a transactional rather than a professional relationship. Insurance services and marketing services are assumed to be professional services unless the company explains why such services are not advisory.
(viii) A material transactional relationship, including grants to non-profit organizations, exists if the company makes annual payments to, or receives annual payments from, another entity exceeding the greater of $200,000 or 5 percent of the recipient's gross revenues, in the case of a company which follows NASDAQ listing standards; or the greater of $1,000,000 or 2 percent of the recipient's gross revenues, in the case of a company which follows NYSE/Amex listing standards. In the case of a company which follows neither of the preceding standards, RMG will apply the NASDAQ-based materiality test. (The recipient is the party receiving the financial proceeds from the transaction).
(ix) Dissident directors who are parties to a voting agreement pursuant to a settlement arrangement, will generally be classified as independent unless determined otherwise taking into account the following factors: the terms of the agreement; the duration of the standstill provision in the agreement; the limitations and requirements of actions that are agreed upon; if the dissident director nominee(s) is subject to the standstill; and if there any conflicting relationships or related party transactions.
(x) Interlocks include: executive officers serving as directors on each other's compensation or similar committees (or, in the absence of such a committee, on the board); or executive officers sitting on each other's boards and at least one serves on the other's compensation or similar committees (or, in the absence of such a committee, on the board).
(xi) The operating involvement of the founder with the company will be considered. Little to no operating involvement may cause RMG to deem the founder as an independent outsider.
(xii) For purposes of RMG's director independence classification, "material" will be defined as a standard of relationship (financial, personal or otherwise) that a reasonable person might conclude could potentially influence one's objectivity in the boardroom in a manner that would have a meaningful impact on an individual's ability to satisfy requisite fiduciary standards on behalf of shareholders.
* * * * *
BOARD-RELATED MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS
AGE LIMITS
Vote AGAINST management proposal to limit the tenure of outside directors
through 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 (stagger) the board.
Vote FOR proposals to repeal classified boards and to elect all directors
annually.
* * * * *
CUMULATIVE VOTING
Generally vote AGAINST proposals to eliminate cumulative voting.
* * * * *
DIRECTOR AND OFFICER INDEMNIFICATION AND LIABILITY PROTECTION
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals on director and officer indemnification and
liability protection 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 liability for acts, such as negligence, that are more serious
violations of fiduciary obligation than mere carelessness.
Vote AGAINST proposals that would expand the scope of indemnification to
provide for mandatory indemnification of company officials in connection with
acts that previously the company was permitted to provide indemnification for
at the discretion of the company's board (i.e., "permissive indemnification")
but that previously the company was not required to indemnify.
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:
o If 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
o If only 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.
* * * * *
FILLING VACANCIES/REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS
Vote AGAINST proposals that provide that directors may be removed only for
cause.
Vote FOR proposals to restore shareholders' 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.
* * * * *
MAJORITY VOTE THRESHOLD FOR DIRECTOR ELECTIONS
Generally vote FOR management proposals to adopt a majority of votes cast standard for directors in uncontested elections. Vote AGAINST if no carve-out for plurality in contested elections is included.
* * * * *
TERM LIMITS
Vote AGAINST management proposals to limit the tenure of outside directors through term limits. However, scrutinize boards where the average tenure of all directors exceeds 15 years for independence from management and for sufficient turnover to ensure that new perspectives are being added to the board.
* * * * *
BOARD-RELATED SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS/INITIATIVES
AGE LIMITS
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals to limit the tenure of outside directors through mandatory retirement ages.
* * * * *
ANNUAL ELECTION (DECLASSIFICATION) OF THE BOARD
Vote FOR shareholder proposals to repeal classified (staggered) boards, and to elect all directors annually.
* * * * *
CEO SUCCESSION PLANNING
Generally vote FOR proposals seeking disclosure on a CEO succession planning policy, considering at a minimum, the following factors:
o The reasonableness/scope of the request; and
o The company's existing disclosure on its current CEO succession planning process.
* * * * *
CUMULATIVE VOTING
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals to restore or provide for cumulative voting unless:
o The company has proxy access or a similar structure(3) to allow shareholders to nominate directors to the company's ballot; and
o The company has adopted a majority vote standard, with a carve-out for plurality voting in situations where there are more nominees than seats, and a director resignation policy to address failed elections.
Vote FOR proposals for cumulative voting at controlled companies (insider voting power > 50%).
* * * * *
ESTABLISH/AMEND NOMINEE QUALIFICATIONS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals that establish or amend director qualifications. Votes should be based on the reasonableness of the criteria and to what degree they may preclude dissident nominees from joining the board.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder resolutions seeking a director nominee candidate who possesses a particular subject matter expertise, considering:
o The company's board committee structure, existing subject matter expertise, and board nomination provisions relative to that of its peers;
o The company's existing board and management oversight mechanisms regarding the issue for which board oversight is sought;
o The company disclosure and performance relating to the issue for which board oversight is sought and any significant related controversies; and
o The scope and structure of the proposal.
* * * * *
ESTABLISHMENT OF BOARD COMMITTEES SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals to establish a new board committee, as such proposals seek a specific oversight mechanism/structure that potentially limits a company's flexibility to determine an appropriate oversight mechanism for itself. However, the following factors will be considered:
o Existing oversight mechanisms (including current committee structure) regarding the issue for which board oversight is sought;
o Level of disclosure regarding the issue for which board oversight is sought;
o Company performance related to the issue for which board oversight is sought;
o Board committee structure compared to that of other companies in its industry sector; and/or
o The scope and structure of the proposal.
* * * * *
Establishment of Board Policy on Shareholder Engagement
Generally vote FOR shareholders proposals requesting that the board establish an internal mechanism/process, which may include a committee, in order to improve communications between directors and shareholders, unless the company has the following features, as appropriate:
o Established a communication structure that goes beyond the exchange requirements to facilitate the exchange of information between shareholders and members of the board;
o Effectively disclosed information with respect to this structure to its shareholders;
o Company has not ignored majority-supported shareholder proposals or a majority withhold vote on a director nominee; and
o The company has an independent chairman or a lead director, according to RMG's definition. This individual must be made available for periodic consultation and direct communication with major shareholders.
* * * * *
FILLING VACANCIES/REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS
Vote AGAINST proposals that provide that directors may be removed only for
cause.
Vote FOR proposals to restore shareholders' 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 CHAIR (SEPARATE CHAIR/CEO)
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals requiring that the chairman's position be filled by an independent director, unless the company satisfies all of the following criteria: The company maintains the following counterbalancing governance structure:
o 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; however the director must serve a minimum of one year in order to qualify as a lead director. ) The duties should include, but are not limited to, the following: - presides at all meetings of the board at which the chairman is not present, including executive sessions of the independent directors;
- serves as liaison between the chairman and the independent directors;
- approves information sent to the board;
- approves meeting agendas for the board;
- approves meeting schedules to assure that there is sufficient time for discussion of all agenda items;
- has the authority to call meetings of the independent directors;
- if requested by major shareholders, ensures that he is available for consultation and direct communication;
o Two-thirds independent board;
o All independent key committees;
o Established governance guidelines;
o A company in the Russell 3000 universe must not have exhibited sustained poor total shareholder return (TSR) performance, defined as one- and three-year TSR in the bottom half of the company's four-digit GICS industry group (using Russell 3000 companies only), unless there has been a change in the Chairman/CEO position within that time. For companies not in the Russell 3000 universe, the company must not have underperformed both its peers and index on the basis of both one-year and three-year total shareholder returns, unless there has been a change in the Chairman/CEO position within that time;
o The company does not have any problematic governance or management issues, examples of which include, but are not limited to:
- Egregious compensation practices;
- Multiple related-party transactions or other issues putting director independence at risk;
- Corporate and/or management scandals;
- Excessive problematic corporate governance provisions; or
- Flagrant actions by management or the board with potential or realized negative impacts on shareholders.
* * * * *
MAJORITY OF INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS/ESTABLISHMENT OF INDEPENDENT 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 RMG's definition of independent outsider. (See CATEGORIZATION OF DIRECTORS.) 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.
* * * * *
MAJORITY VOTE SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
Generally vote FOR precatory and binding resolutions requesting that the board
change the company's bylaws to stipulate that directors need to be elected with
an affirmative majority of votes cast, provided it does not conflict with the
state law where the company is incorporated. Binding resolutions need to allow
for a carve-out for a plurality vote standard when there are more nominees than
board seats.
Companies are strongly encouraged to also adopt a post-election policy (also
know as a director resignation policy) that will provide guidelines so that the
company will promptly address the situation of a holdover director.
* * * * *
OPEN ACCESS (PROXY ACCESS)
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals asking for open or proxy access, taking into account:
o The ownership threshold proposed in the resolution;
o The proponent's rationale for the proposal at the targeted company in terms of board and director conduct.
* * * * *
PROXY CONTESTS- VOTING FOR DIRECTOR NOMINEES IN CONTESTED ELECTIONS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on the election of directors in contested elections, considering the following factors:
o Long-term financial performance of the target company relative to its industry;
o Management's track record;
o Background to the proxy contest;
o Qualifications of director nominees (both slates);
o Strategic plan of dissident slate and quality of critique against management;
o Likelihood that the proposed goals and objectives can be achieved (both slates);
o Stock ownership positions.
* * * * *
REQUIRE MORE NOMINEES THAN OPEN SEATS
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals that would require a company to nominate more candidates than the number of open board seats.
* * * * *
TERM LIMITS
Vote AGAINST shareholder proposals to limit the tenure of outside directors through term limits. However, scrutinize boards where the average tenure of all directors exceeds 15 years for independence from management and for sufficient turnover to ensure that new perspectives are being added to the board.
* * * * *
VOTE NO CAMPAIGNS
In cases where companies are targeted in connection with public "vote no" campaigns, evaluate director nominees under the existing governance policies for voting on director nominees in uncontested elections. Take into consideration the arguments submitted by shareholders and other publicly-available information.
* * * * *
3. SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS & DEFENSES
ADVANCE NOTICE REQUIREMENTS FOR SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS/NOMINATIONS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE basis on advance notice proposals, giving support to those
proposals which allow shareholders to submit proposals/nominations as close to
the meeting date as reasonably possible and within the broadest window
possible, recognizing the need to allow sufficient notice for company,
regulatory and shareholder review.
To be reasonable, the company's deadline for shareholder notice of a proposal/
nominations must not be more than 60 days prior to the meeting, with a
submittal window of at least 30 days prior to the deadline. The submittal
window is the period under which a shareholder must file his
proposal/nominations prior to the deadline.
In general, support additional efforts by companies to ensure full disclosure
in regard to a proponent's economic and voting position in the company so long
as the informational requirements are reasonable and aimed at providing
shareholders with the necessary information to review such proposals.
* * * * *
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.
* * * * *
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.
* * * * *
CONTROL SHARE ACQUISITION PROVISIONS
Control share acquisition statutes function by denying shares their voting
rights when they contribute to ownership in excess of certain thresholds.
Voting rights for those shares exceeding ownership limits may only be restored
by approval of either a majority or supermajority of disinterested shares.
Thus, control share acquisition statutes effectively require a hostile bidder
to put its offer to a shareholder vote or risk voting disenfranchisement if the
bidder continues buying up a large block of shares.
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 CASH-OUT PROVISIONS
Control share cash-out statutes give dissident shareholders the right to "cash-out" of their position in a company at the expense of the shareholder who has taken a control position. In other words, when an investor crosses a preset threshold level, remaining shareholders are given the right to sell their shares to the acquirer, who must buy them at the highest acquiring price. Vote FOR proposals to opt out of control share cash-out statutes.
* * * * *
DISGORGEMENT PROVISIONS
Disgorgement provisions require an acquirer or potential acquirer of more than
a certain percentage of a company's stock to disgorge, or pay back, to the
company any profits realized from the sale of that company's stock purchased 24
months before achieving control status. All sales of company stock by the
acquirer occurring within a certain period of time (between 18 months and 24
months) prior to the investor's gaining control status are subject to these
recapture-of-profits provisions.
Vote FOR proposals to opt out of state disgorgement provisions.
* * * * *
FAIR PRICE PROVISIONS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to adopt fair price provisions (provisions that stipulate that an acquirer must pay the same price to acquire all shares as it paid to acquire the control shares), 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.
* * * * *
FREEZE-OUT PROVISIONS
Vote FOR proposals to opt out of state freeze-out provisions. Freeze-out provisions force an investor who surpasses a certain ownership threshold in a company to wait a specified period of time before gaining control of the company.
* * * * *
GREENMAIL
Greenmail payments are targeted share repurchases by management of company
stock from individuals or groups seeking control of the company. Since only the
hostile party receives payment, usually at a substantial premium over the
market value of its shares, the practice discriminates against all other
shareholders.
Vote FOR proposals to adopt anti-greenmail charter or bylaw amendments or
otherwise restrict a company's ability to make greenmail payments.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on anti-greenmail proposals when they are bundled with other
charter or bylaw amendments.
* * * * *
NET OPERATING LOSS (NOL) PROTECTIVE AMENDMENTS
For management proposals to adopt a protective amendment for the stated purpose of protecting a company's net operating losses ("NOLs"), the following factors should be considered on a CASE-BY-CASE basis:
o The ownership threshold (NOL protective amendments generally prohibit stock ownership transfers that would result in a new 5-percent holder or increase the stock ownership percentage of an existing five-percent holder);
o The value of the NOLs;
o Shareholder protection mechanisms (sunset provision or commitment to cause expiration of the protective amendment upon exhaustion or expiration of the NOL);
o The company's existing governance structure including: board independence, existing takeover defenses, track record of responsiveness to shareholders, and any other problematic governance concerns; and
o Any other factors that may be applicable.
* * * * *
POISON PILLS- SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS TO PUT PILL TO A VOTE AND/OR ADOPT A PILL POLICY
Vote FOR shareholder proposals requesting that the company submit its poison pill to a shareholder vote or redeem it UNLESS the company has: (1) A shareholder approved poison pill in place; or (2) The company has adopted a policy concerning the adoption of a pill in the future specifying that the board will only adopt a shareholder rights plan if either:
o Shareholders have approved the adoption of the plan; or
o The board, in its exercise of its fiduciary responsibilities, determines that it is in the best interest of shareholders under the circumstances to adopt a pill without the delay in adoption that would result from seeking stockholder approval (i. e. , the "fiduciary out" provision). A poison pill adopted under this fiduciary out will be put to a shareholder ratification vote within 12 months of adoption or expire. If the pill is not approved by a majority of the votes cast on this issue, the plan will immediately terminate.
If the shareholder proposal calls for a time period of less than 12 months for shareholder ratification after adoption, vote FOR the proposal, but add the caveat that a vote within 12 months would be considered sufficient implementation.
* * * * *
POISON PILLS- MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS TO RATIFY POISON PILL
Vote CASE-by-CASE on management proposals on poison pill ratification, focusing on the features of the shareholder rights plan. Rights plans should contain the following attributes:
o No lower than a 20% trigger, flip-in or flip-over;
o A term of no more than three years;
o No dead-hand, slow-hand, no-hand or similar feature that limits the ability of a future board to redeem the pill;
o Shareholder redemption feature (qualifying offer clause); if the board refuses to redeem the pill 90 days after a qualifying offer is announced, 10 percent of the shares may call a special meeting or seek a written consent to vote on rescinding the pill.
In addition, the rationale for adopting the pill should be thoroughly explained by the company. In examining the request for the pill, take into consideration the company's existing governance structure, including: board independence, existing takeover defenses, and any problematic governance concerns.
* * * * *
POISON PILLS- MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS TO RATIFY A PILL TO PRESERVE NET OPERATING LOSSES (NOLS)
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on management proposals for poison pill ratification. For management proposals to adopt a poison pill for the stated purpose of preserving a company's net operating losses ("NOLs"), the following factors are considered on a CASE-BY-CASE basis:
o The ownership threshold to transfer (NOL pills generally have a trigger slightly below 5%);
o The value of the NOLs;
o The term;
o Shareholder protection mechanisms (sunset provision, or commitment to cause expiration of the pill upon exhaustion or expiration of NOLs);
o The company's existing governance structure including: board independence, existing takeover defenses, track record of responsiveness to shareholders, and any other problematic governance concerns; and
o Any other factors that may be applicable.
* * * * *
REIMBURSING PROXY SOLICITATION EXPENSES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to reimburse proxy solicitation expenses. When
voting in conjunction with support of a dissident slate, vote FOR the
reimbursement of all appropriate proxy solicitation expenses associated with
the election.
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals calling for the reimbursement of
reasonable costs incurred in connection with nominating one or more candidates
in a contested election where the following apply:
o The election of fewer than 50% of the directors to be elected is contested in the election;
o One or more of the dissident's candidates is elected;
o Shareholders are not permitted to cumulate their votes for directors; and
o The election occurred, and the expenses were incurred, after the adoption of this bylaw.
* * * * *
REINCORPORATION PROPOSALS
Management or shareholder 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 following:
o Reasons for reincorporation;
o Comparison of company's governance practices and provisions prior to and following the reincorporation; and
o Comparison of corporation laws of original state and destination state
Vote FOR reincorporation when the economic factors outweigh any neutral or negative governance changes.
* * * * *
SHAREHOLDER ABILITY TO ACT BY WRITTEN CONSENT
Vote AGAINST management and shareholder proposals to restrict or prohibit
shareholders' ability to act by written consent.
Generally vote FOR management and shareholder proposals that provide
shareholders with the ability to act by written consent taking into account the
following factors:
o Shareholders' current right to act by written consent;
o Consent threshold;
o The inclusion of exclusionary or prohibitive language;
o Investor ownership structure; and
o Shareholder support of and management's response to previous shareholder proposals.
* * * * *
SHAREHOLDER ABILITY TO CALL SPECIAL MEETINGS
Vote AGAINST management or shareholder proposals to restrict or prohibit
shareholders' ability to call special meetings.
Generally vote FOR management or shareholder proposals that provide
shareholders with the ability to call special meetings taking into account the
following factors:
o Shareholders' current right to call special meetings;
o Minimum ownership threshold necessary to call special meetings (10% preferred);
o The inclusion of exclusionary or prohibitive language;
o Investor ownership structure; and
o Shareholder support of and management's response to previous shareholder proposals.
* * * * *
STAKEHOLDER PROVISIONS
Vote AGAINST proposals that ask the board to consider non-shareholder constituencies or other non-financial effects when evaluating a merger or business combination.
* * * * *
STATE ANTITAKEOVER STATUTES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to opt in or out of state takeover statutes (including control share acquisition statutes, control share cash-out statutes, freeze-out provisions, fair price provisions, stakeholder laws, poison pill endorsements, severance pay and labor contract provisions, anti-greenmail provisions, and disgorgement provisions).
* * * * *
SUPERMAJORITY VOTE REQUIREMENTS
Vote AGAINST proposals to require a supermajority shareholder vote. Vote FOR management or shareholder proposals to reduce supermajority vote requirements. However, for companies with shareholder(s) who have significant ownership levels, vote CASE-BY-CASE, taking into account:
o Ownership structure;
o Quorum requirements; and
o Supermajority vote requirements.
* * * * *
4. CAPITAL/RESTRUCTURING
CAPITAL
ADJUSTMENTS TO PAR VALUE OF COMMON STOCK
Vote FOR management proposals to reduce the par value of common stock.
* * * * *
COMMON STOCK AUTHORIZATION
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to increase the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance. Take into account company-specific factors which include, at a minimum, the following:
o Past Board Performance:
o The company's use of authorized shares during the last three years;
o One- and three-year total shareholder return; and
o The board's governance structure and practices;
o The Current Request:
o Disclosure in the proxy statement of the specific reasons for the proposed increase;
o The dilutive impact of the request as determined through an allowable cap generated by RiskMetrics' quantitative model, which examines the company's need for shares and its three-year total shareholder return; and
o Risks to shareholders of not approving the request.
Vote AGAINST proposals at companies with more than one class of common stock to increase the number of authorized shares of the class that has superior voting rights.
* * * * *
ISSUE STOCK FOR USE WITH RIGHTS PLAN
Vote AGAINST proposals that increase authorized common stock for the explicit purpose of implementing a non-shareholder approved shareholder rights plan (poison pill).
* * * * *
PREEMPTIVE RIGHTS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals that seek preemptive rights, taking into consideration: the size of a company, the characteristics of its shareholder base, and the liquidity of the stock.
* * * * *
PREFERRED STOCK
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to increase the number of shares of preferred stock authorized for issuance. Take into account company-specific factors that include, at a minimum, the following:
o Past Board Performance:
o The company's use of authorized preferred shares during the last three years;
o One- and three-year total shareholder return; and
o The board's governance structure and practices;
o The Current Request:
o Disclosure in the proxy statement of specific reasons for the proposed increase;
o In cases where the company has existing authorized preferred stock, the dilutive impact of the request as determined through an allowable cap generated by RiskMetrics' quantitative model, which examines the company's need for shares and three-year total shareholder return; and
o Whether the shares requested are blank check preferred shares, and whether they are declawed.
Vote AGAINST proposals at companies with more than one class or series of preferred stock to increase the number of authorized shares of the class or series that has superior voting rights.
* * * * *
RECAPITALIZATION
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on recapitalizations (reclassifications of securities), taking into account the following:
o More simplified capital structure;
o Enhanced liquidity;
o Fairness of conversion terms;
o Impact on voting power and dividends;
o Reasons for the reclassification;
o Conflicts of interest; and
o 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. Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to implement a reverse stock split
that do not proportionately reduce the number of shares authorized for issue
based on the allowable increased calculated using the Capital Structure model.
* * * * *
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 RMG.
* * * * *
TRACKING STOCK
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on the creation of tracking stock, weighing the strategic value of the transaction against such factors as:
o Adverse governance changes;
o Excessive increases in authorized capital stock;
o Unfair method of distribution;
o Diminution of voting rights;
o Adverse conversion features;
o Negative impact on stock option plans; and
o Alternatives such as spin-off.
* * * * *
RESTRUCTURING
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:
o Purchase price;
o Fairness opinion;
o Financial and strategic benefits;
o How the deal was negotiated;
o Conflicts of interest;
o Other alternatives for the business;
o Non-completion risk.
* * * * *
ASSET SALES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on asset sales, considering the following factors:
o Impact on the balance sheet/working capital;
o Potential elimination of diseconomies;
o Anticipated financial and operating benefits;
o Anticipated use of funds;
o Value received for the asset;
o Fairness opinion;
o How the deal was negotiated;
o Conflicts of interest.
* * * * *
BUNDLED PROPOSALS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on bundled or "conditional" 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
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals regarding conversion of securities. 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
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to increase common and/or preferred shares and to issue shares as part of a debt restructuring plan, taking into consideration the following:
o Dilution to existing shareholders' position;
o Terms of the offer;
o Financial issues;
o Management's efforts to pursue other alternatives;
o Control issues;
o 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
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals regarding the formation of a holding company, taking into consideration the following:
o The reasons for the change;
o Any financial or tax benefits;
o Regulatory benefits;
o Increases in capital structure;
o 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:
o Increases in common or preferred stock in excess of the allowable maximum (see discussion under "Capital Structure");
o Adverse changes in shareholder rights.
* * * * *
GOING PRIVATE AND GOING DARK TRANSACTIONS (LBOS AND MINORITY SQUEEZE-OUTS)
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on going private transactions, taking into account the following:
o Offer price/premium;
o Fairness opinion;
o How the deal was negotiated;
o Conflicts of interest;
o Other alternatives/offers considered; and
o Non-completion risk.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on "going dark" transactions, determining whether the transaction enhances shareholder value by taking into consideration:
o Whether the company has attained benefits from being publicly-traded (examination of trading volume, liquidity, and market research of the stock);
o Balanced interests of continuing vs. cashed-out shareholders, taking into account the following:
- Are all shareholders able to participate in the transaction?
- Will there be a liquid market for remaining shareholders following the transaction?
- Does the company have strong corporate governance?
- Will insiders reap the gains of control following the proposed transaction?
- Does the state of incorporation have laws requiring continued reporting that may benefit shareholders?
* * * * *
JOINT VENTURES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to form joint ventures, taking into account the following:
o Percentage of assets/business contributed;
o Percentage ownership;
o Financial and strategic benefits;
o Governance structure;
o Conflicts of interest;
o Other alternatives;
o Noncompletion risk.
* * * * *
LIQUIDATIONS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on liquidations, taking into account the following:
o Management's efforts to pursue other alternatives;
o Appraisal value of assets; and
o 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
Vote CASE --BY- CASE on mergers and acquisitions. Review and evaluate the merits and drawbacks of the proposed transaction, balancing various and sometimes countervailing factors including:
o VALUATION - Is the value to be received by the target shareholders (or paid by the acquirer) reasonable? While the fairness opinion may provide an initial starting point for assessing valuation reasonableness, emphasis is placed on the offer premium, market reaction and strategic rationale.
o MARKET REACTION - How has the market responded to the proposed deal? A negative market reaction should cause closer scrutiny of a deal.
o STRATEGIC RATIONALE - Does the deal make sense strategically? From where is the value derived? Cost and revenue synergies should not be overly aggressive or optimistic, but reasonably achievable. Management should also have a favorable track record of successful integration of historical acquisitions.
o NEGOTIATIONS AND PROCESS - Were the terms of the transaction negotiated at arm's-length? Was the process fair and equitable? A fair process helps to ensure the best price for shareholders. Significant negotiation "wins" can also signify the deal makers' competency. The comprehensiveness of the sales process (e. g. , full auction, partial auction, no auction) can also affect shareholder value.
o CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - Are insiders benefiting from the transaction disproportionately and inappropriately as compared to non-insider shareholders? As the result of potential conflicts, the directors and officers of the company may be more likely to vote to approve a merger than if they did not hold these interests. Consider whether these interests may have influenced these directors and officers to support or recommend the merger. The CIC figure presented in the "RMG Transaction Summary" section of this report is an aggregate figure that can in certain cases be a misleading indicator of the true value transfer from shareholders to insiders. Where such figure appears to be excessive, analyze the underlying assumptions to determine whether a potential conflict exists.
o GOVERNANCE - Will the combined company have a better or worse governance profile than the current governance profiles of the respective parties to the transaction? If the governance profile is to change for the worse, the burden is on the company to prove that other issues (such as valuation) outweigh any deterioration in governance.
* * * * *
PLANS OF REORGANIZATION (BANKRUPTCY)
Vote CASE-BY-CASE basis on proposals to common shareholders on bankruptcy plans of reorganization, considering the following factors including, but not limited to:
o Estimated value and financial prospects of the reorganized company;
o Percentage ownership of current shareholders in the reorganized company;
o Whether shareholders are adequately represented in the reorganization process (particularly through the existence of an Official Equity Committee);
o The cause(s) of the bankruptcy filing, and the extent to which the plan of reorganization addresses the cause(s);
o Existence of a superior alternative to the plan of reorganization; and
o Governance of the reorganized company.
* * * * *
PRIVATE PLACEMENTS/WARRANTS/CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals regarding private placements taking into consideration:
1. Dilution to existing shareholders' position.
- The amount and timing of shareholder ownership dilution should be weighed against the needs and proposed shareholder benefits of the capital infusion.
2. Terms of the offer - discount/premium in purchase price to investor, including any fairness opinion; conversion features; termination penalties; exit strategy.
- The terms of the offer should be weighed against the alternatives of the company and in light of company's financial issues.
- When evaluating the magnitude of a private placement discount or premium, RiskMetrics will consider whether it is affected by liquidity, due diligence, control and monitoring issues, capital scarcity, information asymmetry and anticipation of future performance.
3. Financial issues include but are not limited to examining the following:
- Company's financial situation;
- Degree of need for capital;
- Use of proceeds;
- Effect of the financing on the company's cost of capital;
- Current and proposed cash burn rate; and
- Going concern viability and the state of the capital and credit markets.
4. Management's efforts to pursue alternatives and whether the company engaged in a process to evaluate alternatives. A fair, unconstrained process helps to ensure the best price for shareholders. Financing alternatives can include joint ventures, partnership, merger or sale of part or all of the company.
5. Control issues:
- Change in management;
- Change in control,
- Guaranteed board and committee seats;
- Standstill provisions;
- Voting agreements;
- Veto power over certain corporate actions.
Minority versus majority ownership and corresponding minority discount or majority control premium
6. Conflicts of interest
- Conflicts of interest should be viewed from the perspective of the company and the investor.
- Were the terms of the transaction negotiated at arm's-length? Are managerial incentives aligned with shareholder interests?
7. Market reaction
- The market's response to the proposed deal. A negative market reaction is a cause for concern. Market reaction may be addressed by analyzing the one day impact on the unaffected stock price.
Vote FOR the private placement if it is expected that the company will file for bankruptcy if the transaction is not approved.
* * * * *
SPECIAL PURPOSE ACQUISITION CORPORATIONS (SPACS)
Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE basis on SPAC mergers and acquisitions taking into account the following:
o Valuation -- Is the value being paid by the SPAC reasonable? SPACs generally lack an independent fairness opinion and the financials on the target may be limited. Compare the conversion price with the intrinsic value of the target company provided in the fairness opinion. Also, evaluate the proportionate value of the combined entity attributable to the SPAC IPO shareholders versus the pre-merger value of SPAC. Additionally, a private company discount may be applied to the target, if it is a private entity.
o Market reaction -- How has the market responded to the proposed deal? A negative market reaction may be a cause for concern. Market reaction may be addressed by analyzing the one-day impact on the unaffected stock price.
o Deal timing -- A main driver for most transactions is that the SPAC charter typically requires the deal to be complete within 18 to 24 months, or the SPAC is to be liquidated. Evaluate the valuation, market reaction, and potential conflicts of interest for deals that are announced close to the liquidation date.
o Negotiations and process -- What was the process undertaken to identify potential target companies within specified industry or location specified in charter? Consider the background of the sponsors.
o Conflicts of interest -- How are sponsors benefiting from the transaction compared to IPO shareholders? Potential conflicts could arise if a fairness opinion is issued by the insiders to qualify the deal rather than a third party or if management is encouraged to pay a higher price for the target because of an 80% rule (the charter requires that the fair market value of the target is at least equal to 80% of net assets of the SPAC). Also, there may be sense of urgency by the management team of the SPAC to close the deal since its charter typically requires a transaction to be completed within the 18-24 month timeframe.
o Voting agreements -- Are the sponsors entering into enter into any voting agreements/ tender offers with shareholders who are likely to vote AGAINST the proposed merger or exercise conversion rights?
o Governance -- What is the impact of having the SPAC CEO or founder on key committees following the proposed merger?
* * * * *
SPINOFFS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on spin-offs, considering:
o Tax and regulatory advantages;
o Planned use of the sale proceeds;
o Valuation of spinoff;
o Fairness opinion;
o Benefits to the parent company;
o Conflicts of interest;
o Managerial incentives;
o Corporate governance changes;
o Changes in the capital structure.
* * * * *
VALUE MAXIMIZATION SHAREHOLDER 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:
o Prolonged poor performance with no turnaround in sight;
o Signs of entrenched board and management;
o Strategic plan in place for improving value;
o Likelihood of receiving reasonable value in a sale or dissolution; and
o Whether company is actively exploring its strategic options, including retaining a financial advisor.
* * * * *
5. COMPENSATION
EXECUTIVE PAY EVALUATION
Underlying all evaluations are five global principles that most investors expect corporations to adhere to in designing and administering executive and director compensation programs:
1. Maintain appropriate pay-for-performance alignment, with emphasis on long- term shareholder value: This principle encompasses overall executive pay practices, which must be designed to attract, retain, and appropriately motivate the key employees who drive shareholder value creation over the long term. It will take into consideration, among other factors, the link between pay and performance; the mix between fixed and variable pay; performance goals; and equity-based plan costs;
2. Avoid arrangements that risk "pay for failure": This principle addresses the appropriateness of long or indefinite contracts, excessive severance packages, and guaranteed compensation;
3. Maintain an independent and effective compensation committee: This principle promotes oversight of executive pay programs by directors with appropriate skills, knowledge, experience, and a sound process for compensation decision- making (e.g., including access to independent expertise and advice when needed);
4. Provide shareholders with clear, comprehensive compensation disclosures: This principle underscores the importance of informative and timely disclosures that enable shareholders to evaluate executive pay practices fully and fairly;
5. Avoid inappropriate pay to non-executive directors: This principle recognizes the interests of shareholders in ensuring that compensation to outside directors does not compromise their independence and ability to make appropriate judgments in overseeing managers' pay and performance. At the market level, it may incorporate a variety of generally accepted best practices.
ADVISORY VOTES ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION- MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS (MANAGEMENT SAY-ON-PAY)
Evaluate executive pay and practices, as well as certain aspects of outside director compensation, on a CASE-BY-CASE basis.
Vote AGAINST management say on pay (MSOP) proposals, AGAINST/WITHHOLD on compensation committee members (or, in rare cases where the full board is deemed responsible, all directors including the CEO), and/or AGAINST an equity-based incentive plan proposal if:
o There is a misalignment between CEO pay and company performance (PAY FOR PERFORMANCE);
o The company maintains PROBLEMATIC PAY PRACTICES;
o The board exhibits POOR COMMUNICATION AND RESPONSIVENESS to shareholders.
VOTING ALTERNATIVES
In general, the management say on pay (MSOP) ballot item is the primary focus of voting on executive pay practices-- dissatisfaction with compensation practices can be expressed by voting against MSOP rather than withholding or voting against the compensation committee. However, if there is no MSOP on the ballot, then the negative vote will apply to members of the compensation committee. In addition, in egregious cases, or if the board fails to respond to concerns raised by a prior MSOP proposal, then vote withhold or against compensation committee members (or, if the full board is deemed accountable, all directors). If the negative factors involve equity-based compensation, then vote AGAINST an equity-based plan proposal presented for shareholder approval.
ADDITIONAL CASE-BY-CASE CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE MANAGEMENT SAY ON PAY (MSOP) PROPOSALS:
o Evaluation of performance metrics in short-term and long-term plans,
as discussed and explained in the Compensation Discussion & Analysis
(CD&A). Consider the measures, goals, and target awards reported by
the company for executives' short- and long-term incentive awards:
disclosure, explanation of their alignment with the company's business
strategy, and whether goals appear to be sufficiently challenging in
relation to resulting payouts;
o Evaluation of peer group benchmarking used to set target pay or award opportunities. Consider the rationale stated by the company for constituents in its pay benchmarking peer group, as well as the benchmark targets it uses to set or validate executives' pay (e. g. , median, 75th percentile, etc. ,) to ascertain whether the benchmarking process is sound or may result in pay "ratcheting" due to inappropriate peer group constituents (e. g. , much larger companies) or targeting (e. g. , above median); and
o Balance of performance-based versus non-performance-based pay. Consider the ratio of performance-based (not including plain vanilla stock options) vs. non-performance-based pay elements reported for the CEO's latest reported fiscal year compensation, especially in conjunction with concerns about other factors such as performance metrics/goals, benchmarking practices, and pay-for-performance disconnects.
PRIMARY EVALUATION FACTORS FOR EXECUTIVE PAY
PAY FOR PERFORMANCE
Evaluate the alignment of the CEO's pay with performance over time, focusing
particularly on companies that have underperformed their peers over a sustained
period. From a shareholders' perspective, performance is predominantly gauged
by the company's stock performance over time. Even when financial or
operational measures are utilized in incentive awards, the achievement related
to these measures should ultimately translate into superior shareholder returns
in the long-term.
Focus on companies with sustained underperformance relative to peers,
considering the following key factors:
o Whether a company's one-year and three-year total shareholder returns ("TSR") are in the bottom half of its industry group (i. e. , four-digit GICS -- Global Industry Classification Group); and
o Whether the total compensation of a CEO who has served at least two consecutive fiscal years is aligned with the company's total shareholder return over time, including both recent and long-term periods.
If a company falls in the bottom half of its four-digit GICS, further analysis of the CD&A is required to better understand the various pay elements and whether they create or reinforce shareholder alignment. Also assess the CEO's pay relative to the company's TSR over a time horizon of at least five years. The most recent year-over-year increase or decrease in pay remains a key consideration, but there will be additional emphasis on the long term trend of CEO total compensation relative to shareholder return. Also consider the mix of performance-based compensation relative to total compensation. In general, standard stock options or time-vested restricted stock are not considered to be performance-based. If a company provides performance-based incentives to its executives, the company is highly encouraged to provide the complete disclosure of the performance measure and goals (hurdle rate) so that shareholders can assess the rigor of the performance program. The use of non-GAAP financial metrics also makes it very challenging for shareholders to ascertain the rigor of the program as shareholders often cannot tell the type of adjustments being made and if the adjustments were made consistently. Complete and transparent disclosure helps shareholders to better understand the company's pay for performance linkage.
PROBLEMATIC PAY PRACTICES
The focus is on executive compensation practices that contravene the global pay principles, including:
o Problematic practices related to non-performance-based compensation elements;
o Incentives that may motivate excessive risk-taking; and
o Options Backdating.
NON-PERFORMANCE BASED COMPENSATION ELEMENTS
Companies adopt a variety of pay arrangements that may be acceptable in their
particular industries, or unique for a particular situation, and all companies
are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. However, there are certain adverse
practices that are particularly contrary to a performance-based pay philosophy,
including guaranteed pay and excessive or inappropriate non-performance-based
pay elements.
While not exhaustive, this is the list of practices that carry greatest weight
in this consideration and may result in negative vote recommendations on a
stand-alone basis. For more details, please refer to RMG's Compensation FAQ
document: http://www.riskmetrics.com/policy/2010_compensation_FAQ:
o Multi-year guarantees for salary increases, non-performance based bonuses, and equity compensation;
o Including additional years of unworked service that result in significant additional benefits, without sufficient justification, or including long-term equity awards in the pension calculation;
o Perquisites for former and/or retired executives, and extraordinary relocation benefits (including home buyouts) for current executives;
o Change-in-control payments exceeding 3 times base salary and target bonus; change-in- control payments without job loss or substantial diminution of duties ("Single Triggers");
new or materially amended agreements that provide for "modified single triggers" (under which an executive may voluntarily leave for any reason and still receive the change-in- control severance package); new or materially amended agreements that provide for an excise tax gross-up (including "modified gross-ups");
o Tax Reimbursements related to executive perquisites or other payments such as personal use of corporate aircraft, executive life insurance, bonus, etc; (see also excise tax gross- ups above)
o Dividends or dividend equivalents paid on unvested performance shares or units;
o Executives using company stock in hedging activities, such as "cashless" collars, forward sales, equity swaps or other similar arrangements; or
o Repricing or replacing of underwater stock options/stock appreciation rights without prior shareholder approval (including cash buyouts and voluntary surrender/subsequent regrant of underwater options).
INCENTIVES THAT MAY MOTIVATE EXCESSIVE RISK-TAKING
Assess company policies and disclosure related to compensation that could
incentivize excessive risk-taking, for example:
o Guaranteed bonuses;
o A single performance metric used for short- and long-term plans;
o Lucrative severance packages;
o High pay opportunities relative to industry peers;
o Disproportionate supplemental pensions; or
o Mega annual equity grants that provide unlimited upside with no downside risk.
Factors that potentially mitigate the impact of risky incentives include rigorous claw-back provisions and robust stock ownership/holding guidelines.
OPTIONS BACKDATING
Vote CASE-by-CASE on options backdating issues. Generally, when a company has
recently practiced options backdating, WITHHOLD from or vote AGAINST the
compensation committee, depending on the severity of the practices and the
subsequent corrective actions on the part of the board. When deciding on votes
on compensation committee members who oversaw questionable options grant
practices or current compensation committee members who fail to respond to the
issue proactively, consider several factors, including, but not limited to, the
following:
o Reason and motive for the options backdating issue, such as inadvertent vs. deliberate grant date changes;
o Duration of options backdating;
o Size of restatement due to options backdating;
o Corrective actions taken by the board or compensation committee, such as canceling or re-pricing backdated options, the recouping of option gains on backdated grants; and
o Adoption of a grant policy that prohibits backdating, and creates a fixed grant schedule or window period for equity grants in the future.
A CASE-by-CASE analysis approach allows distinctions to be made between companies that had "sloppy" plan administration versus those that acted deliberately and/or committed fraud, as well as those companies that subsequently took corrective action. Cases where companies have committed fraud are considered most egregious.
BOARD COMMUNICATIONS AND RESPONSIVENESS
Consider the following factors on a CASE-BY-CASE basis when evaluating ballot items related to executive pay:
o Poor disclosure practices, including:
- Unclear explanation of how the CEO is involved in the pay setting process;
- Retrospective performance targets and methodology not discussed;
- Methodology for benchmarking practices and/or peer group not disclosed and explained.
o Board's responsiveness to investor input and engagement on compensation issues, for example:
- Failure to respond to majority-supported shareholder proposals on executive pay topics; or
- Failure to respond to concerns raised in connection with significant opposition to MSOP proposals.
* * * * *
EQUITY-BASED AND OTHER INCENTIVE PLANS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on equity-based compensation plans. Vote AGAINST the equity plan if any of the following factors apply:
o The total COST of the company's equity plans is unreasonable;
o The plan expressly permits the REPRICING of stock options/stock appreciate rights (SARs) without prior shareholder approval;
o The CEO is a participant in the proposed equity-based compensation plan and there is a disconnect between CEO pay and the company's performance where over 50 percent of the year-over-year increase is attributed to equity awards (see PAY-FOR-PERFORMANCE);
o The company's three year BURN RATE exceeds the greater of 2% or the mean plus one standard deviation of its industry group;
o LIBERAL CHANGE OF CONTROL DEFINITION: The plan provides for the acceleration of vesting of equity awards even though an actual change in control may not occur (e.g., upon shareholder approval of a transaction or the announcement of a tender offer); or
o The plan is a vehicle for Problematic Pay Practices.
Each of these factors is described below:
COST OF EQUITY PLANS
Generally, vote AGAINST equity plans if the cost is unreasonable. For
non-employee director plans, vote FOR the plan if certain factors are met (see
Director Compensation section).
The cost of the equity plans is expressed as Shareholder Value Transfer (SVT),
which is measured using a binomial option pricing model that assesses the
amount of shareholders' equity flowing out of the company to employees and
directors. SVT is expressed as both a dollar amount and as a percentage of
market value, and includes the new shares proposed, shares available under
existing plans, and shares granted but unexercised. All award types are valued.
For omnibus plans, unless limitations are placed on the most expensive types of
awards (for example, full value awards), the assumption is made that all awards
to be granted will be the most expensive types. See discussion of specific
types of awards.
The Shareholder Value Transfer is reasonable if it falls below the
company-specific allowable cap. The allowable cap is determined as follows: The
top quartile performers in each industry group (using the Global Industry
Classification Standard: GICS) are identified. Benchmark SVT levels for each
industry are established based on these top performers' historic SVT.
Regression analyses are run on each industry group to identify the variables
most strongly correlated to SVT. The benchmark industry SVT level is then
adjusted upwards or downwards for the specific company by plugging the
company-specific performance measures, size and cash compensation into the
industry cap equations to arrive at the company's allowable cap.
REPRICING PROVISIONS
Vote AGAINST plans that expressly permit the repricing or exchange of
underwater stock options without prior shareholder approval, even if the cost
of the plan is reasonable. Also, vote AGAINST OR WITHHOLD from members of the
Compensation Committee who approved and/or implemented a repricing or an option
exchange program, by buying out underwater options for stock, cash or other
consideration or canceling underwater options and regranting options with a
lower exercise price, without prior shareholder approval, even if such
repricings are allowed in their equity plan.
Vote AGAINST plans if the company has a history of repricing options without
shareholder approval, and the applicable listing standards would not preclude
them from doing so.
* * * * *
THREE-YEAR BURN RATE/BURN RATE COMMITMENT
Generally vote AGAINST equity plans for companies whose average three-year burn rates exceeds the GREATER OF: (1) the mean plus one standard deviation of the company's GICS group segmented by Russell 3000 index and non-Russell 3000 index (per the following Burn Rate Table); and (2) two percent of weighted common shares outstanding. The three-year burn rate policy does not apply to non-employee director plans unless outside directors receive a significant portion of shares each year.
The annual burn rate is calculated as follows:
Annual Burn rate = (# of options granted + # of full value shares awarded
* Multiplier) / Weighted Average common shares outstanding)
However, vote FOR equity plans if the company fails this burn rate test but the company commits in a public filing to a three-year average burn rate equal to its GICS group burn rate mean plus one standard deviation (or 2%, whichever is greater), assuming all other conditions for voting FOR the plan have been met.
If a company fails to fulfill its burn rate commitment, vote AGAINST or WITHHOLD from the compensation committee.
For the Dec. 1, 2009 and future quarterly data downloads, RMG will use the 200-day volatility for the shareholder value transfer and burn rate policies. We will also use the 200-day average stock price for the shareholder value transfer policy.
BURN RATE TABLE FOR 2010
RUSSELL 3000 NON-RUSSELL 3000 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STANDARD STANDARD GICS DESCRIPTION MEAN DEVIATION MEAN+STDEV MEAN DEVIATION MEAN+STDEV ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1010 Energy 1.07% 1.08% 2.14% 2.04% 2.26% 4.30% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1510 Materials 0.94% 0.68% 1.63% 1.97% 2.57% 4.54% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2010 Capital Goods 1.10% 0.85% 1.95% 2.07% 2.62% 4.69% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2020 Commercial Services & Supplies 1.67% 1.23% 2.89% 1.82% 1.71% 3.53% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2030 Transportation 1.20% 0.93% 2.13% 1.36% 0.95% 2.31% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2510 Automobiles & Components 1.36% 1.63% 2.99% 1.36% 1.63% 2.99% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2520 Consumer Durables & Apparel 1.76% 1.21% 2.97% 1.56% 1.81% 3.37% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2530 Hotels Restaurants & Leisure 1.69% 1.11% 2.80% 1.52% 1.65% 3.17% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2540 Media 1.36% 0.93% 2.28% 2.14% 1.88% 4.03% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2550 Retailing 1.69% 1.41% 3.10% 2.19% 1.82% 4.01% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3010, 3020, 3030 Food & Staples Retailing 1.25% 1.67% 2.92% 1.52% 1.65% 3.17% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3510 Health Care Equipment & Services 2.19% 1.46% 3.65% 3.77% 4.16% 7.92% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3520 Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology 3.19% 1.97% 5.16% 4.52% 4.05% 8.58% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4010 Banks 1.02% 1.04% 2.05% 0.81% 1.31% 2.12% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4020 Diversified Financials 2.21% 2.94% 5.15% 4.25% 4.05% 8.30% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4030 Insurance 1.07% 0.94% 2.02% 1.03% 1.28% 2.31% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4040 Real Estate 0.56% 0.49% 1.04% 0.99% 2.14% 3.13% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4510 Software & Services 3.15% 2.32% 5.47% 4.32% 3.26% 7.58% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Technology Hardware & 4520 Equipment 2.60% 2.18% 4.79% 3.32% 3.76% 7.08% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Semiconductors & Semiconductor 4530 Equipment 2.94% 1.88% 4.82% 4.33% 2.98% 7.31% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5010 Telecommunication Services 1.30% 1.20% 2.50% 2.63% 2.45% 5.08% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5510 Utilities 0.41% 0.39% 0.80% 0.76% 0.88% 1.64% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
For companies that grant both full value awards and stock options to their participants, apply a premium on full value awards for the past three fiscal years. The guideline for applying the premium is as follows:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- STOCK PRICE VOLATILITY MULTIPLIER -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 54.6% and higher 1 full-value award will count as 1.5 option shares -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 36.1% or higher and less than 54.6% 1 full-value award will count as 2.0 option shares -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24.9% or higher and less than 36.1% 1 full-value award will count as 2.5 option shares -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 16.5% or higher and less than 24.9% 1 full-value award will count as 3.0 option shares -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7.9% or higher and less than 16.5% 1 full-value award will count as 3.5 option shares -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Less than 7.9% 1 full-value award will count as 4.0 option shares -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
* * * * *
PAY-FOR-PERFORMANCE- IMPACT ON EQUITY PLANS
If a significant portion of the CEO's misaligned pay is attributed to equity awards, and there is an equity plan on the ballot, vote AGAINST the equity plan, taking in to consideration:
o Magnitude of pay increase/decrease in the last fiscal year;
o Source of pay increase (cash or equity); and
o Proportion of equity awards granted in the last fiscal year concentrated at the named executive officer level.
See PAY-FOR-PERFORMANCE discussion under Executive Pay Evaluation for further details.
LIBERAL DEFINITION OF CHANGE-IN-CONTROL
Generally vote AGAINST equity plans if the plan provides for the acceleration of vesting of equity awards even though an actual change in control may not occur. Examples of such a definition could include, but are not limited to, announcement or commencement of a tender offer, provisions for acceleration upon a "potential" takeover, shareholder approval of a merger or other transactions, or similar language.
PROBLEMATIC PAY PRACTICES
If the equity plan on the ballot is a vehicle for problematic pay practices, vote AGAINST the plan.
* * * * *
SPECIFIC TREATMENT OF CERTAIN AWARD TYPES IN EQUITY PLAN EVALUATIONS:
DIVIDEND EQUIVALENT RIGHTS
Options that have Dividend Equivalent Rights (DERs) associated with them will
have a higher calculated award value than those without DERs under the binomial
model, based on the value of these dividend streams. The higher value will be
applied to new shares, shares available under existing plans, and shares
awarded but not exercised per the plan specifications. DERS transfer more
shareholder equity to employees and non-employee directors and this cost should
be captured.
* * * * *
LIBERAL SHARE RECYCLING PROVISIONS
Under net share counting provisions, shares tendered by an option holder to pay
for the exercise of an option, shares withheld for taxes or shares repurchased
by the company on the open market can be recycled back into the equity plan for
awarding again. All awards with such provisions should be valued as full-value
awards. Stock-settled stock appreciation rights (SSARs) will also be considered
as full-value awards if a company counts only the net shares issued to
employees towards their plan reserve.
* * * * *
OPERATING PARTNERSHIP (OP) UNITS IN EQUITY PLAN ANALYSIS OF REAL ESTATE
INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITS)
For Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITS), include the common shares issuable
upon conversion of outstanding Operating Partnership (OP) units in the share
count for the purposes of determining: (1) market capitalization in the
Shareholder Value Transfer (SVT) analysis and (2) shares outstanding in the
burn rate analysis.
* * * * *
OPTION OVERHANG COST
Companies with sustained positive stock performance and high overhang cost
attributable to in-the-money options outstanding in excess of six years may
warrant a carve-out of these options from the overhang as long as the dilution
attributable to the new share request is reasonable and the company exhibits
sound compensation practices. Consider, on a CASE-BY-CASE basis, a carve-out of
a portion of cost attributable to overhang, considering the following
criteria:
o PERFORMANCE: Companies with sustained positive stock performance will merit greater scrutiny. Five-year total shareholder return (TSR), year-over-year performance, and peer performance could play a significant role in this determination.
o OVERHANG DISCLOSURE: Assess whether optionees have held in-the-money options for a prolonged period (thus reflecting their confidence in the prospects of the company). Note that this assessment would require additional disclosure regarding a company's overhang. Specifically, the following disclosure would be required:
- The number of in-the-money options outstanding in excess of six or more years with a corresponding weighted average exercise price and weighted average contractual remaining term;
- The number of all options outstanding less than six years and underwater options outstanding in excess of six years with a corresponding weighted average exercise price and weighted average contractual remaining term;
- The general vesting provisions of option grants; and
- The distribution of outstanding option grants with respect to the named executive officers;
o DILUTION: Calculate the expected duration of the new share request in addition to all shares currently available for grant under the equity compensation program, based on the company's three-year average burn rate (or a burn-rate commitment that the company makes for future years). The expected duration will be calculated by multiplying the company's unadjusted (options and full-value awards accounted on a one-for-one basis) three-year average burn rate by the most recent fiscal year's weighted average shares outstanding (as used in the company's calculation of basic EPS) and divide the sum of the new share request and all available shares under the company's equity compensation program by the product. For example, an expected duration in excess of five years could be considered problematic; and
o COMPENSATION PRACTICES: An evaluation of overall practices could include: (1) stock option repricing provisions, (2) high concentration ratios (of grants to top executives), or (3) additional practices outlined in the Poor Pay Practices policy.
* * * * *
OTHER COMPENSATION PLANS
401(K) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Vote FOR proposals to implement a 401(k) savings plan for employees.
* * * * *
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).
* * * * *
EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLANS-- QUALIFIED PLANS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on qualified employee stock purchase plans. Vote FOR employee
stock purchase plans where all of the following apply:
o Purchase price is at least 85 percent of fair market value;
o Offering period is 27 months or less; and
o The number of shares allocated to the plan is ten percent or less of the outstanding shares.
Vote AGAINST qualified employee stock purchase plans where any of the following apply:
o Purchase price is less than 85 percent of fair market value; or
o Offering period is greater than 27 months; or
o The number of shares allocated to the plan is more than ten percent of the outstanding shares.
* * * * *
EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLANS -- NON-QUALIFIED PLANS
Vote CASE-by-CASE on nonqualified employee stock purchase plans. Vote FOR
nonqualified employee stock purchase plans with all the following features:
o Broad-based participation (i. e. , all employees of the company with the exclusion of individuals with 5 percent or more of beneficial ownership of the company);
o Limits on employee contribution, which may be a fixed dollar amount or expressed as a percent of base salary;
o Company matching contribution up to 25 percent of employee's contribution, which is effectively a discount of 20 percent from market value;
o No discount on the stock price on the date of purchase since there is a company matching contribution.
Vote AGAINST nonqualified employee stock purchase plans when any of the plan features do not meet the above criteria. If the company matching contribution exceeds 25 percent of employee's contribution, evaluate the cost of the plan against its allowable cap.
* * * * *
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) of the
Internal Revenue Code.
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) are considered
on a CASE-BY-CASE basis using a proprietary, quantitative model developed by
RMG.
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.
Vote AGAINST proposals if the compensation committee does not fully consist of
independent outsiders, as defined in RMG's classification of director
independence.
* * * * *
OPTION EXCHANGE PROGRAMS/REPRICING OPTIONS
Vote CASE-by-CASE on management proposals seeking approval to exchange/reprice
options taking into consideration:
o Historic trading patterns--the stock price should not be so volatile that the options are likely to be back "in-the-money" over the near term;
o Rationale for the re-pricing--was the stock price decline beyond management's control?
o Is this a value-for-value exchange?
o Are surrendered stock options added back to the plan reserve?
o Option vesting--does the new option vest immediately or is there a black-out period?
o Term of the option--the term should remain the same as that of the replaced option;
o Exercise price--should be set at fair market or a premium to market;
o Participants--executive officers and directors should be excluded.
If the surrendered options are added back to the equity plans for re-issuance, then also take into consideration the company's total cost of equity plans and its three-year average burn rate. In addition to the above considerations, evaluate the intent, rationale, and timing of the repricing proposal. The proposal should clearly articulate why the board is choosing to conduct an exchange program at this point in time. Repricing underwater options after a recent precipitous drop in the company's stock price demonstrates poor timing. Repricing after a recent decline in stock price triggers additional scrutiny and a potential AGAINST vote on the proposal. At a minimum, the decline should not have happened within the past year. Also, consider the terms of the surrendered options, such as the grant date, exercise price and vesting schedule. Grant dates of surrendered options should be far enough back (two to three years) so as not to suggest that repricings are being done to take advantage of short-term downward price movements. Similarly, the exercise price of surrendered options should be above the 52-week high for the stock price. Vote FOR shareholder proposals to put option repricings to a shareholder vote.
* * * * *
STOCK PLANS IN LIEU OF CASH
Vote CASE-by-CASE on plans that provide participants with the option of taking
all or a portion of their cash compensation in the form of stock.
Vote FOR non-employee director-only equity plans that provide a
dollar-for-dollar cash-for-stock exchange.
Vote CASE-by-CASE on plans which do not provide a dollar-for-dollar cash for
stock exchange. In cases where the exchange is not dollar-for-dollar, the
request for new or additional shares for such equity program will be considered
using the binomial option pricing model. In an effort to capture the total cost
of total compensation, RMG will not make any adjustments to carve out the
in-lieu-of cash compensation.
* * * * *
TRANSFER STOCK OPTION (TSO) PROGRAMS
One-time Transfers: Vote AGAINST or WITHHOLD from compensation committee
members if they fail to submit one-time transfers to shareholders for
approval.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on one-time transfers. Vote FOR if:
o Executive officers and non-employee directors are excluded from participating;
o Stock options are purchased by third-party financial institutions at a discount to their fair value using option pricing models such as Black-Scholes or a Binomial Option Valuation or other appropriate financial models;
o There is a two-year minimum holding period for sale proceeds (cash or stock) for all participants.
Additionally, management should provide a clear explanation of why options are
being transferred to a third-party institution and whether the events leading
up to a decline in stock price were beyond management's control. A review of
the company's historic stock price volatility should indicate if the options
are likely to be back "in-the-money" over the near term.
Ongoing TSO program: Vote AGAINST equity plan proposals if the details of
ongoing TSO programs are not provided to shareholders. Since TSOs will be one
of the award types under a stock plan, the ongoing TSO program, structure and
mechanics must be disclosed to shareholders. The specific criteria to be
considered in evaluating these proposals include, but not limited, to the
following:
o Eligibility;
o Vesting;
o Bid-price;
o Term of options;
o Cost of the program and impact of the TSOs on company's total option expense
o Option repricing policy.
Amendments to existing plans that allow for introduction of transferability of stock options should make clear that only options granted post-amendment shall be transferable.
* * * * *
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
EQUITY PLANS FOR NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on compensation plans for non-employee directors, based on
the cost of the plans against the company's allowable cap.
On occasion, director stock plans that set aside a relatively small number of
shares when combined with employee or executive stock compensation plans will
exceed the allowable cap. Vote for the plan if ALL of the following qualitative
factors in the board's compensation are met and disclosed in the proxy
statement:
o Director stock ownership guidelines with a minimum of three times the annual cash retainer.
o Vesting schedule or mandatory holding/deferral period:
- A minimum vesting of three years for stock options or restricted stock; or
- Deferred stock payable at the end of a three-year deferral period.
o Mix between cash and equity:
- A balanced mix of cash and equity, for example 40% cash/60% equity or 50% cash/50% equity; or
- If the mix is heavier on the equity component, the vesting schedule or deferral period should be more stringent, with the lesser of five years or the term of directorship.
o No retirement/benefits and perquisites provided to non-employee directors; and
o Detailed disclosure provided on cash and equity compensation delivered to each non- employee director for the most recent fiscal year in a table. The column headers for the table may include the following: name of each non-employee director, annual retainer, board meeting fees, committee retainer, committee-meeting fees, and equity grants. * * * * * DIRECTOR RETIREMENT PLANS
Vote AGAINST retirement plans for non-employee directors.
Vote FOR shareholder proposals to eliminate retirement plans for non-employee
directors.
* * * * *
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS ON COMPENSATION
ADVISORY VOTE ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION (SAY-ON-PAY)
Generally, vote FOR shareholder proposals that call for non-binding shareholder ratification of the compensation of the Named Executive Officers and the accompanying narrative disclosure of material factors provided to understand the Summary Compensation Table.
* * * * *
ADOPT ANTI-HEDGING/PLEDGING/SPECULATIVE INVESTMENTS POLICY
Generally vote FOR proposals seeking a policy that prohibits named executive officers from engaging in derivative or speculative transactions involving company stock, including hedging, holding stock in a margin account, or pledging stock as collateral for a loan. However, the company's existing policies regarding responsible use of company stock will be considered.
* * * * *
BONUS BANKING/BONUS BANKING "PLUS"
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals seeking deferral of a portion of annual bonus pay, with ultimate payout linked to sustained results for the performance metrics on which the bonus was earned (whether for the named executive officers or a wider group of employees), taking into account the following factors:
o The company's past practices regarding equity and cash compensation;
o Whether the company has a holding period or stock ownership requirements in place, such as a meaningful retention ratio (at least 50 percent for full tenure); and
o Whether THE COMPANY HAS A RIGOROUS CLAW-BACK POLICY IN PLACE.
COMPENSATION CONSULTANTS- DISCLOSURE OF BOARD OR COMPANY'S UTILIZATION
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals seeking disclosure regarding the Company, Board, or Compensation Committee's use of compensation consultants, such as company name, business relationship(s) and fees paid.
* * * * *
DISCLOSURE/SETTING LEVELS OR TYPES OF COMPENSATION FOR EXECUTIVES AND DIRECTORS
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 CASE-BY-CASE on 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.
* * * * *
GOLDEN COFFINS/EXECUTIVE DEATH BENEFITS
Generally vote FOR proposals calling companies to adopt a policy of obtaining shareholder approval for any future agreements and corporate policies that could oblige the company to make payments or awards following the death of a senior executive in the form of unearned salary or bonuses, accelerated vesting or the continuation in force of unvested equity grants, perquisites and other payments or awards made in lieu of compensation. This would not apply to any benefit programs or equity plan proposals that the broad-based employee population is eligible.
* * * * *
HOLD EQUITY PAST RETIREMENT OR FOR A SIGNIFICANT PERIOD OF TIME
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals asking companies to adopt policies requiring senior executive officers to retain all or a significant portion of the shares acquired through compensation plans, either:
o while employed and/or for two years following the termination of their employment ; or
o for a substantial period following the lapse of all other vesting requirements for the award ("lock-up period"), with ratable release of a portion of the shares annually during the lock-up period.
The following factors will be taken into account:
o Whether the company has any holding period, retention ratio, or officer ownership requirements in place. These should consist of:
- Rigorous stock ownership guidelines;
- A holding period requirement coupled with a significant long-term ownership requirement; or
- A meaningful retention ratio;
o Actual officer stock ownership and the degree to which it meets or exceeds the proponent's suggested holding period/retention ratio or the company's own stock ownership or retention requirements;
o Post-termination holding requirement policies or any policies aimed at mitigating risk taking by senior executives;
o Problematic pay practices, current and past, which may promote a short-term versus a long-term focus.
A rigorous stock ownership guideline should be at least 10x base salary for the CEO, with the multiple declining for other executives. A meaningful retention ratio should constitute at least 50 percent of the stock received from equity awards (on a net proceeds basis) held on a long-term basis, such as the executive's tenure with the company or even a few years past the executive's termination with the company.
* * * * *
NON-DEDUCTIBLE COMPENSATION
Generally vote FOR proposals seeking disclosure of the extent to which the company paid non-deductible compensation to senior executives due to Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m), while considering the company's existing disclosure practices.
* * * * *
PAY FOR SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals based on a case-by-case analysis that requests the board establish a pay-for-superior performance standard in the company's executive compensation plan for senior executives. The proposal has the following principles:
o Sets compensation targets for the Plan's annual and long-term incentive pay components at or below the peer group median;
o Delivers a majority of the Plan's target long-term compensation through performance- vested, not simply time-vested, equity awards;
o Provides the strategic rationale and relative weightings of the financial and non-financial performance metrics or criteria used in the annual and performance-vested long-term incentive components of the plan;
o Establishes performance targets for each plan financial metric relative to the performance of the company's peer companies;
o Limits payment under the annual and performance-vested long-term incentive components of the plan to when the company's performance on its selected financial performance metrics exceeds peer group median performance.
Consider the following factors in evaluating this proposal:
o What aspects of the company's annual and long-term equity incentive programs are performance driven?
o If the annual and long-term equity incentive programs are performance driven, are the performance criteria and hurdle rates disclosed to shareholders or are they benchmarked against a disclosed peer group?
o Can shareholders assess the correlation between pay and performance based on the current disclosure?
o What type of industry and stage of business cycle does the company belong to? * * * * * PERFORMANCE-BASED AWARDS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposal requesting that a significant amount of future long-term incentive compensation awarded to senior executives shall be performance-based and requesting that the board adopt and disclose challenging performance metrics to shareholders, based on the following analytical steps:
o First, vote FOR shareholder proposals advocating the use of performance-based equity awards, such as performance contingent options or restricted stock, indexed options or premium-priced options, unless the proposal is overly restrictive or if the company has demonstrated that it is using a "substantial" portion of performance-based awards for its top executives. Standard stock options and performance-accelerated awards do not meet the criteria to be considered as performance-based awards. Further, premium-priced options should have a premium of at least 25 percent and higher to be considered performance-based awards.
o Second, assess the rigor of the company's performance-based equity program. If the bar set for the performance-based program is too low based on the company's historical or peer group comparison, generally vote FOR the proposal. Furthermore, if target performance results in an above target payout, vote FOR the shareholder proposal due to program's poor design. If the company does not disclose the performance metric of the performance-based equity program, vote FOR the shareholder proposal regardless of the outcome of the first step to the test.
In general, vote FOR the shareholder proposal if the company does not meet both of the above two steps.
* * * * *
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.
* * * * *
PRE-ARRANGED TRADING PLANS (10B5-1 PLANS)
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals calling for certain principles regarding the use of prearranged trading plans (10b5-1 plans) for executives. These principles include:
o Adoption, amendment, or termination of a 10b5-1 Plan must be disclosed within two business days in a Form 8-K;
o Amendment or early termination of a 10b5-1 Plan is allowed only under extraordinary circumstances, as determined by the board;
o Ninety days must elapse between adoption or amendment of a 10b5-1 Plan and initial trading under the plan;
o Reports on Form 4 must identify transactions made pursuant to a 10b5-1 Plan;
o An executive may not trade in company stock outside the 10b5-1 Plan.
o Trades under a 10b5-1 Plan must be handled by a broker who does not handle other securities transactions for the executive.
* * * * *
PROHIBIT CEOS FROM SERVING ON COMPENSATION COMMITTEES
Generally vote AGAINST proposals seeking a policy to prohibit any outside CEO from serving on a company's compensation committee, unless the company has demonstrated problematic pay practices that raise concerns about the performance and composition of the committee.
* * * * *
RECOUP BONUSES
Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to recoup unearned incentive bonuses or other incentive payments made to senior executives if it is later determined that the figures upon which incentive compensation is earned later turn out to have been in error. This is line with the clawback provision in the Trouble Asset Relief Program. Many companies have adopted policies that permit recoupment in cases where fraud, misconduct, or negligence significantly contributed to a restatement of financial results that led to the awarding of unearned incentive compensation. RMG will take into consideration:
o If the company has adopted a formal recoupment bonus policy;
o If the company has chronic restatement history or material financial problems; or
o If the company's policy substantially addresses the concerns raised by the proponent.
* * * * *
SEVERANCE AGREEMENTS FOR EXECUTIVES/GOLDEN PARACHUTES
Vote FOR shareholder proposals requiring that golden parachutes or executive severance agreements 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, but is not limited to, the following:
o The triggering mechanism should be beyond the control of management;
o The amount should not exceed three times base amount (defined as the average annual taxable W-2 compensation during the five years prior to the year in which the change of control occurs;
o Change-in-control payments should be double-triggered, i.e. , (1) after a change in control has taken place, and (2) termination of the executive as a result of the change in control. Change in control is defined as a change in the company ownership structure.
* * * * *
SHARE BUYBACK HOLDING PERIODS
Generally vote AGAINST shareholder proposals prohibiting executives from selling shares of company stock during periods in which the company has announced that it may or will be repurchasing shares of its stock. Vote FOR the proposal when there is a pattern of abuse by executives exercising options or selling shares during periods of share buybacks.
* * * * *
STOCK OWNERSHIP OR HOLDING PERIOD GUIDELINES
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 RMG favors stock ownership on the part of directors, the company should determine the appropriate ownership requirement. Vote on a CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals asking companies to adopt policies requiring Named Executive Officers to retain 75% of the shares acquired through compensation plans while employed and/or for two years following the termination of their employment, and to report to shareholders regarding this policy. The following factors will be taken into account:
o Whether the company has any holding period, retention ratio, or officer ownership requirements in place. These should consist of:
- Rigorous stock ownership guidelines, or
- A holding period requirement coupled with a significant long-term ownership requirement, or
- A meaningful retention ratio,
o Actual officer stock ownership and the degree to which it meets or exceeds the proponent's suggested holding period/retention ratio or the company's own stock ownership or retention requirements.
o Problematic pay practices, current and past, which may promote a short-term versus a long-term focus.
A rigorous stock ownership guideline should be at least 10x base salary for the CEO, with the multiple declining for other executives. A meaningful retention ratio should constitute at least 50 percent of the stock received from equity awards (on a net proceeds basis) held on a long-term basis, such as the executive's tenure with the company or even a few years past the executive's termination with the company.
* * * * *
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.
Generally vote FOR shareholder proposals requesting to limit the executive
benefits provided under the company's supplemental executive retirement plan
(SERP) by limiting covered compensation to a senior executive's annual salary
and excluding of all incentive or bonus pay from the plan's definition of
covered compensation used to establish such benefits.
* * * * *
TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT PRIOR TO SEVERANCE PAYMENT AND ELIMINATING ACCELERATED VESTING OF UNVESTED EQUITY
Vote on a CASE-by-CASE on shareholder proposals seeking a policy requiring termination of employment prior to severance payment, and eliminating accelerated vesting of unvested equity. Change-in-control payouts without loss of job or substantial diminution of job duties (single-triggered) are consider a poor pay practice under RMG policy, and may even result in withheld votes from compensation committee members. The second component of this proposal --- related to the elimination of accelerated vesting -- requires more careful consideration. The following factors will be taken into regarding this policy.
o The company's current treatment of equity in change-of-control situations (i.e. is it double triggered, does it allow for the assumption of equity by acquiring company, the treatment of performance shares.
o Current employment agreements, including potential poor pay practices such as gross-ups embedded in those agreements.
Generally vote FOR proposals seeking a policy that prohibits acceleration of the vesting of equity awards to senior executives in the event of a change in control (except for pro rata vesting considering the time elapsed and attainment of any related performance goals between the award date and the change in control).
* * * * *
TAX GROSS-UP PROPOSALS
Generally vote FOR proposals calling for companies to adopt a policy of not providing tax gross-up payments to executives, except in situations where gross-ups are provided pursuant to a plan, policy, or arrangement applicable to management employees of the company, such as a relocation or expatriate tax equalization policy.
* * * * *
6. SOCIAL/ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES
OVERALL APPROACH
When evaluating social and environmental shareholder proposals, RMG considers the following factors:
o Whether adoption of the proposal is likely to enhance or protect shareholder value;
o Whether the information requested concerns business issues that relate to a meaningful percentage of the company's business as measured by sales, assets, and earnings;
o The degree to which the company's stated position on the issues raised in the proposal could affect its reputation or sales, or leave it vulnerable to a boycott or selective purchasing;
o Whether the issues presented are more appropriately/effectively dealt with through governmental or company-specific action;
o Whether the company has already responded in some appropriate manner to the request embodied in the proposal;
o Whether the company's analysis and voting recommendation to shareholders are persuasive;
o What other companies have done in response to the issue addressed in the proposal;
o Whether the proposal itself is well framed and the cost of preparing the report is reasonable;
o Whether implementation of the proposal's request would achieve the proposal's objectives;
o Whether the subject of the proposal is best left to the discretion of the board;
o Whether the requested information is available to shareholders either from the company or from a publicly available source; and
o Whether providing this information would reveal proprietary or confidential information that would place the company at a competitive disadvantage.
* * * * *
ANIMAL WELFARE
ANIMAL TESTING
Generally vote AGAINST proposals to phase out the use of animals in product testing unless:
o The company is conducting animal testing programs that are unnecessary or not required by regulation;
o The company is conducting animal testing when suitable alternatives are commonly accepted and used at industry peers; or
o There are recent, significant fines or litigation related to the company's treatment of animals.
* * * * *
ANIMAL WELFARE POLICIES
Generally vote FOR proposals seeking a report on the company's animal welfare standards unless:
o The company has already published a set of animal welfare standards and monitors compliance;
o The company's standards are comparable to industry peers; and
o There are no recent, significant fines or litigation related to the company's treatment of animals.
* * * * *
CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE KILLING (CAK)
Generally vote AGAINST proposals requesting the implementation of CAK methods
at company and/or supplier operations unless such methods are required by
legislation or generally accepted as the industry standard.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals requesting a report on the feasibility of
implementing CAK methods at company and/or supplier operations considering the
availability of existing research conducted by the company or industry groups
on this topic and any fines or litigation related to current animal processing
procedures at the company.
* * * * *
CONSUMER ISSUES
GENETICALLY MODIFIED INGREDIENTS
Generally vote AGAINST proposals asking suppliers, genetic research companies,
restaurants and food retail companies to voluntarily label genetically
engineered (GE) ingredients in their products and/or eliminate GE ingredients.
The cost of labeling and/or phasing out the use of GE ingredients may not be
commensurate with the benefits to shareholders and is an issue better left to
regulators.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking for a report on the feasibility of
labeling products containing GE ingredients taking into account:
o The company's business and the proportion of it affected by the resolution;
o The quality of the company's disclosure on GE product labeling, related voluntary initiatives, and how this disclosure compares with industry peer disclosure; and
o Company's current disclosure on the feasibility of GE product labeling, including information on the related costs.
Generally vote AGAINST proposals seeking a report on the social, health, and environmental effects of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Studies of this sort are better undertaken by regulators and the scientific community. Generally 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 regulators) that may outweigh the economic benefits derived from biotechnology.
* * * * *
CONSUMER LENDING
Vote CASE-BY CASE on requests for reports on the company's lending guidelines and procedures taking into account:
o Whether the company has adequately disclosed mechanisms in place to prevent abusive lending practices;
o Whether the company has adequately disclosed the financial risks of the lending products in question;
o Whether the company has been subject to violations of lending laws or serious lending controversies;
o Peer companies' policies to prevent abusive lending practices.
* * * * *
PHARMACEUTICAL PRICING, ACCESS TO MEDICINES, AND PRODUCT REIMPORTATION
Generally vote AGAINST proposals requesting that companies implement specific price restraints on pharmaceutical products unless the company fails to adhere to legislative guidelines or industry norms in its product pricing. Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals requesting that the company evaluate report on their product pricing policies or their access to medicine policies, considering:
o The nature of the company's business and the potential for reputational and market risk exposure;
o The existing disclosure of relevant policies;
o Deviation from established industry norms;
o The company's existing, relevant initiatives to provide research and/or products to disadvantaged consumers;
o Whether the proposal focuses on specific products or geographic regions; and
o The potential cost and scope of the requested report.
Generally vote FOR proposals requesting that companies report on the financial
and legal impact of their prescription drug reimportation policies unless such
information is already publicly disclosed.
Generally vote AGAINST proposals requesting that companies adopt specific
policies to encourage or constrain prescription drug reimportation. Such
matters are more appropriately the province of legislative activity and may
place the company at a competitive disadvantage relative to its peers.
* * * * *
PRODUCT SAFETY AND TOXIC/HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Generally vote FOR proposals requesting the company to report on its policies, initiatives/procedures, and oversight mechanisms related to toxic/hazardous materials or product safety in its supply chain, unless:
o The company already discloses similar information through existing reports such as a Supplier Code of Conduct and/or a sustainability report;
o The company has formally committed to the implementation of a toxic/hazardous materials and/or product safety and supply chain reporting and monitoring program based on industry norms or similar standards within a specified time frame; and
o The company has not been recently involved in relevant significant controversies, significant fines, or litigation.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on resolutions requesting that companies develop a feasibility assessment to phase-out of certain toxic/hazardous materials, or evaluate and disclose the potential financial and legal risks associated with utilizing certain materials, considering:
o The company's current level of disclosure regarding its product safety policies, initiatives and oversight mechanisms.
o Current regulations in the markets in which the company operates; and
o Recent significant controversies, litigation, or fines stemming from toxic/hazardous materials at the company.
Generally vote AGAINST resolutions requiring that a company reformulate its
products.
* * * * *
TOBACCO
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on resolutions regarding the advertisement of tobacco products, considering:
o Recent related fines, controversies, or significant litigation;
o Whether the company complies with relevant laws and regulations on the marketing of tobacco;
o Whether the company's advertising restrictions deviate from those of industry peers;
o Whether the company entered into the Master Settlement Agreement, which restricts marketing of tobacco to youth;
o Whether restrictions on marketing to youth extend to foreign countries.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals regarding second-hand smoke, considering;
o Whether the company complies with all laws and regulations;
o The degree that voluntary restrictions beyond those mandated by law might hurt the company's competitiveness;
o The risk of any health-related liabilities.
Generally vote AGAINST resolutions to cease production of tobacco-related
products, to avoid selling products to tobacco companies, to spin-off
tobacco-related businesses, or prohibit investment in tobacco equities. Such
business decisions are better left to company management or portfolio
managers.
Generally vote AGAINST proposals regarding tobacco product warnings. Such
decisions are better left to public health authorities.
* * * * *
DIVERSITY
BOARD DIVERSITY
Generally vote FOR requests for reports on the company's efforts to diversify the board, unless:
o The gender and racial minority representation of the company's board is reasonably inclusive in relation to companies of similar size and business; and
o The board already reports on its nominating procedures and gender and racial minority initiatives on the board and within the company.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals asking the company to increase the gender and racial minority representation on its board, taking into account:
o The degree of existing gender and racial minority diversity on the company's board and among its executive officers;
o The level of gender and racial minority representation that exists at the company's industry peers;
o The company's established process for addressing gender and racial minority board representation;
o Whether the proposal includes an overly prescriptive request to amend nominating committee charter language;
o The independence of the company's nominating committee;
o The company uses an outside search firm to identify potential director nominees; and
o Whether the company has had recent controversies, fines, or litigation regarding equal employment practices.
* * * * *
EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY
Generally vote FOR proposals requesting a company disclose its diversity policies or initiatives, or proposals requesting disclosure of a company's comprehensive workforce diversity data, including requests for EEO-1 data, unless:
o The company publicly discloses its comprehensive equal opportunity policies and initiatives;
o The company already publicly discloses comprehensive workforce diversity data; and
o The company has no recent significant EEO-related violations or litigation.
Generally vote AGAINST proposals seeking information on the diversity efforts of suppliers and service providers. Such requests may pose a significant cost and administration burden on the company.
* * * * *
GENDER IDENTITY, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, AND DOMESTIC PARTNER BENEFITS
Generally vote FOR proposals seeking to amend a company's EEO statement or
diversity policies to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation
and/or gender identity, unless the change would result in excessive costs for
the company.
Generally vote AGAINST proposals to extend company benefits to, or eliminate
benefits from domestic partners. Decisions regarding benefits should be left to
the discretion of the company.
* * * * *
CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE ENVIRONMENT
CLIMATE CHANGE
Generally vote FOR resolutions requesting that a company disclose information on the impact of climate change on the company's operations and investments considering:
o The company already provides current, publicly-available information on the impacts that climate change may have on the company as well as associated company policies and procedures to address related risks and/or opportunities;
o The company's level of disclosure is at least comparable to that of industry peers; and
o There are no significant, controversies, fines, penalties, or litigation associated with the company's environmental performance.
* * * * *
CONCENTRATED ANIMAL FEEDING OPERATIONS (CAFOS)
Generally vote FOR resolutions requesting companies report to shareholders on the risks and liabilities associated with CAFOs unless:
o The company has publicly disclosed its environmental management policies for its corporate and contract farming operations, including compliance monitoring; and
o The company publicly discloses company and supplier farm environmental performance data; or
o The company does not have company-owned CAFOs and does not directly source from contract farm CAFOs.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Generally vote FOR on proposals requesting a company report on its comprehensive energy efficiency policies, unless:
o The company complies with applicable energy efficiency regulations and laws, and discloses its participation in energy efficiency policies and programs, including disclosure of benchmark data, targets, and performance measures; or
o The proponent requests adoption of specific energy efficiency goals within specific timelines.
* * * * *
FACILITY AND OPERATIONAL SAFETY/SECURITY
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on resolutions requesting that companies report on safety and/or security risks associated with their operations and/or facilities, considering:
o The company's compliance with applicable regulations and guidelines;
o The company's current level of disclosure regarding its security and safety policies, procedures, and compliance monitoring; and,
o The existence of recent, significant violations, fines, or controversy regarding the safety and security of the company's operations and/or facilities.
* * * * *
GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) EMISSIONS
Generally vote FOR proposals requesting a report on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from company operations and/or products and operations, unless:
o The company already provides current, publicly-available information on the impacts that GHG emissions may have on the company as well as associated company policies and procedures to address related risks and/or opportunities;
o The company's level of disclosure is comparable to that of industry peers; and
o There are no significant, controversies, fines, penalties, or litigation associated with the company's GHG emissions.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals that call for the adoption of GHG reduction goals from products and operations, taking into account:
o Overly prescriptive requests for the reduction in GHG emissions by specific amounts or within a specific time frame;
o Whether company disclosure lags behind industry peers;
o Whether the company has been the subject of recent, significant violations, fines, litigation, or controversy related to GHG emissions;
o The feasibility of reduction of GHGs given the company's product line and current technology and;
o Whether the company already provides meaningful disclosure on GHG emissions from its products and operations.
* * * * *
OPERATIONS IN PROTECTED AREAS
Generally vote FOR requests for reports on potential environmental damage as a result of company operations in protected regions unless:
o Operations in the specified regions are not permitted by current laws or regulations;
o The company does not currently have operations or plans to develop operations in these protected regions; or,
o The company's disclosure of its operations and environmental policies in these regions is comparable to industry peers.
* * * * *
RECYCLING
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to adopt a comprehensive recycling strategy, taking into account:
o The nature of the company's business;
o The extent that peer companies are recycling;
o The timetable prescribed by the proposal and the costs and methods of implementation;
o Whether the company has a poor environmental track record, such as violations of applicable regulations.
* * * * *
RENEWABLE ENERGY
Generally vote FOR requests for reports on the feasibility of developing renewable energy resources unless the report is duplicative of existing disclosure or irrelevant to the company's line of business. Generally vote AGAINST proposals requesting that the company invest in renewable energy resources. Such decisions are best left to management's evaluation of the feasibility and financial impact that such programs may have on the company.
* * * * *
GENERAL CORPORATE ISSUES
CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS
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, and if, contributions are in the best interests of the company.
* * * * *
ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND GOVERNANCE (ESG) COMPENSATION-RELATED PROPOSALS
Generally vote AGAINST proposals to link, or report on linking, executive compensation to environmental and social criteria (such as corporate downsizings, customer or employee satisfaction, community involvement, human rights, environmental performance, or predatory lending) as the practice of linking executive compensation and such criteria is currently the exception rather than the norm and there appears to be a lack of widely-accepted standards regarding the implementation of effective linkages between executive compensation and corporate non-financial performance. However, the following factors will be considered:
o Whether the company has significant and persistent controversies or violations regarding social and/or environmental issues;
o Whether the company has management systems and oversight mechanisms in place regarding its social and environmental performance;
o The degree to which industry peers have incorporated similar non-financial performance criteria in their executive compensation practices; and
o The company's current level of disclosure regarding its environmental and social performance.
Generally vote AGAINST proposals calling for an analysis of the pay disparity between corporate executives and other non-executive employees. The value of the information sought by such proposals is unclear.
* * * * *
HEALTH PANDEMICS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on requests for reports outlining the impact of health pandemics (such as HIV/AIDS, Malaria, Tuberculosis, and Avian Flu) on the company's operations and how the company is responding to the situation, taking into account:
o The scope of the company's operations in the affected/relevant area(s);
o The company's existing healthcare policies, including benefits and healthcare access; and
o Company donations to relevant healthcare providers.
Vote AGAINST proposals asking companies to establish, implement, and report on a standard of response to health pandemics (such as HIV/AIDS, Malaria, Tuberculosis, and Avian Flu), unless the company has significant operations in the affected markets and has failed to adopt policies and/or procedures to address these issues comparable to those of industry peers.
* * * * *
LOBBYING EXPENDITURES/INITIATIVES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals requesting information on a company's lobbying initiatives, considering:
o Significant controversies, fines, or litigation surrounding a company's public policy activities,
o The company's current level of disclosure on lobbying strategy, and
o The impact that the policy issue may have on the company's business operations. * * * * *
POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS AND TRADE ASSOCIATIONS SPENDING
Generally vote AGAINST proposals asking the company to affirm political nonpartisanship in the workplace so long as:
o There are no recent, significant controversies, fines or litigation regarding the company's political contributions or trade association spending; and
o The company has procedures in place to ensure that employee contributions to company- sponsored political action committees (PACs) are strictly voluntary and prohibits coercion.
Vote AGAINST proposals to publish in newspapers and public media the company's political contributions. Such publications could present significant cost to the company without providing commensurate value to shareholders. Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to improve the disclosure of a company's political contributions and trade association spending considering:
o Recent significant controversy or litigation related to the company's political contributions or governmental affairs; and
o The public availability of a company policy on political contributions and trade association spending including information on the types of organizations supported, the business rationale for supporting these organizations, and the oversight and compliance procedures related to such expenditures of corporate assets.
Vote AGAINST proposals barring the company from making political contributions. Businesses are affected by legislation at the federal, state, and local level and barring political contributions can put the company at a competitive disadvantage.
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.
* * * * *
INTERNATIONAL ISSUES, LABOR ISSUES, AND HUMAN RIGHTS
COMMUNITY SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENTS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on requests for reports outlining policies and/or the potential (community) social and/or environmental impact of company operations considering:
o Current disclosure of applicable policies and risk assessment report(s) and risk management procedures;
o The impact of regulatory non-compliance, litigation, remediation, or reputational loss that may be associated with failure to manage the company's operations in question, including the management of relevant community and stakeholder relations;
o The nature, purpose, and scope of the company's operations in the specific region(s);
o The degree to which company policies and procedures are consistent with industry norms; and
o Scope of the resolution.
* * * * *
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.
* * * * *
INTERNET PRIVACY AND CENSORSHIP
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on resolutions requesting the disclosure and implementation of Internet privacy and censorship policies and procedures considering:
o The level of disclosure of company policies and procedures relating to privacy, freedom of speech, Internet censorship, and government monitoring of the Internet;
o Engagement in dialogue with governments and/or relevant groups with respect to the Internet and the free flow of information;
o The scope of business involvement and of investment in markets that maintain government censorship or monitoring of the Internet;
o The market-specific laws or regulations applicable to Internet censorship or monitoring that may be imposed on the company; and,
o The level of controversy or litigation related to the company's international human rights policies and procedures.
* * * * *
LABOR AND HUMAN RIGHTS STANDARDS
Generally vote FOR proposals requesting a report on company or company supplier
labor and/or human rights standards and policies unless such information is
already publicly disclosed.
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to implement company or company supplier labor
and/or human rights standards and policies, considering:
o The degree to which existing relevant policies and practices are disclosed;
o Whether or not existing relevant policies are consistent with internationally recognized standards;
o Whether company facilities and those of its suppliers are monitored and how;
o Company participation in fair labor organizations or other internationally recognized human rights initiatives;
o Scope and nature of business conducted in markets known to have higher risk of workplace labor/human rights abuse;
o Recent, significant company controversies, fines, or litigation regarding human rights at the company or its suppliers;
o The scope of the request; and
o Deviation from industry sector peer company standards and practices.
* * * * *
MACBRIDE PRINCIPLES
Generally vote AGAINST proposals to endorse or increase activity on the MacBride Principles, unless:
o The company has formally been found to be out of compliance with relevant Northern Ireland fair employment laws and regulations;
o Failure to implement the MacBride Principles would put the company in an inconsistent position and/or at a competitive disadvantage compared with industry peers;
o Failure to implement the MacBride Principles would subject the company to excessively negative financial impacts due to laws that some municipalities have passed regarding their contracting operations and companies that have not implemented the MacBride Principles; or
o The company has had recent, significant controversies, fines or litigation regarding religious-based employment discrimination in Northern Ireland.
* * * * *
NUCLEAR AND DEPLETED URANIUM WEAPONS
Generally vote AGAINST proposals asking a company to cease production or report on the risks associated with the use of depleted uranium munitions or nuclear weapons components and delivery systems, including disengaging from current and proposed contracts. Such contracts are monitored by government agencies, serve multiple military and non-military uses, and withdrawal from these contracts could have a negative impact on the company's business.
* * * * *
OPERATIONS IN HIGH RISK MARKETS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on requests for a report on a company's potential financial and reputational risks associated with operations in "high-risk" markets, such as a terrorism-sponsoring state or politically/socially unstable region, taking into account:
o The nature, purpose, and scope of the operations and business involved that could be affected by social or political disruption;
o Current disclosure of applicable risk assessment(s) and risk management procedures;
o Compliance with U. S. sanctions and laws;
o Consideration of other international policies, standards, and laws; and
o Whether the company has been recently involved in recent, significant controversies, fines or litigation related to its operations in "high-risk" markets.
* * * * *
OUTSOURCING/OFFSHORING
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals calling for companies to report on the risks associated with outsourcing/plant closures, considering:
o Controversies surrounding operations in the relevant market(s);
o The value of the requested report to shareholders;
o The company's current level of disclosure of relevant information on outsourcing and plant closure procedures; and
o The company's existing human rights standards relative to industry peers.
* * * * *
SUSTAINABILITY
SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING
Generally vote FOR proposals requesting the company to report on its policies, initiatives, and oversight mechanisms related to social, economic, and environmental sustainability, unless:
o The company already discloses similar information through existing reports or policies such as an Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) report; a comprehensive Code of Corporate Conduct; and/or a Diversity Report; or
o The company has formally committed to the implementation of a reporting program based on Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) guidelines or a similar standard within a specified time frame
* * * * *
7. MUTUAL FUND PROXIES
ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on the election of directors and trustees, following the same guidelines for uncontested directors for public company shareholder meetings. However, mutual fund boards do not usually have compensation committees, so do not withhold for the lack of this committee.
* * * * *
CONVERTING CLOSED-END FUND TO OPEN-END FUND
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on conversion proposals, considering the following factors:
o Past performance as a closed-end fund;
o Market in which the fund invests;
o Measures taken by the board to address the discount; and
o Past shareholder activism, board activity, and votes on related proposals.
* * * * *
PROXY CONTESTS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proxy contests, considering the following factors:
o Past performance relative to its peers;
o Market in which fund invests;
o Measures taken by the board to address the issues;
o Past shareholder activism, board activity, and votes on related proposals;
o Strategy of the incumbents versus the dissidents;
o Independence of directors;
o Experience and skills of director candidates;
o Governance profile of the company;
o Evidence of management entrenchment.
* * * * *
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on investment advisory agreements, considering the following factors:
o Proposed and current fee schedules;
o Fund category/investment objective;
o Performance benchmarks;
o Share price performance as compared with peers;
o Resulting fees relative to peers;
o 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
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on the authorization for or increase in preferred shares, considering the following factors:
o Stated specific financing purpose;
o Possible dilution for common shares;
o Whether the shares can be used for antitakeover purposes.
* * * * *
1940 ACT POLICIES
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on policies under the Investment Advisor Act of 1940, considering the following factors:
o Potential competitiveness;
o Regulatory developments;
o Current and potential returns; and
o 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.
* * * * *
CHANGING A FUNDAMENTAL RESTRICTION TO A NONFUNDAMENTAL RESTRICTION
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to change a fundamental restriction to a non-fundamental restriction, considering the following factors:
o The fund's target investments;
o The reasons given by the fund for the change; and
o 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 non-fundamental.
* * * * *
NAME CHANGE PROPOSALS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on name change proposals, considering the following factors:
o Political/economic changes in the target market;
o Consolidation in the target market; and
o Current asset composition.
* * * * *
CHANGE IN FUND'S SUBCLASSIFICATION
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on changes in a fund's sub-classification, considering the following factors:
o Potential competitiveness;
o Current and potential returns;
o Risk of concentration;
o Consolidation in target industry.
* * * * *
DISPOSITION OF ASSETS/TERMINATION/LIQUIDATION
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to dispose of assets, to terminate or liquidate, considering the following factors:
o Strategies employed to salvage the company;
o The fund's past performance;
o The terms of the liquidation.
* * * * *
CHANGES TO THE CHARTER DOCUMENT
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on changes to the charter document, considering the following factors:
o The degree of change implied by the proposal;
o The efficiencies that could result;
o The state of incorporation;
o Regulatory standards and implications.
Vote AGAINST any of the following changes:
o Removal of shareholder approval requirement to reorganize or terminate the trust or any of its series;
o Removal of shareholder approval requirement for amendments to the new declaration of trust;
o 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;
o 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;
o Removal of shareholder approval requirement to engage in and terminate subadvisory arrangements;
o Removal of shareholder approval requirement to change the domicile of the fund.
* * * * *
CHANGING THE DOMICILE OF A FUND
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on re-incorporations, considering the following factors:
o Regulations of both states;
o Required fundamental policies of both states;
o 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 CASE-BY-CASE on distribution agreement proposals, considering the following factors:
o Fees charged to comparably sized funds with similar objectives;
o The proposed distributor's reputation and past performance;
o The competitiveness of the fund in the industry;
o The terms of the agreement.
* * * * *
MASTER-FEEDER STRUCTURE
Vote FOR the establishment of a master-feeder structure.
* * * * *
MERGERS
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on merger proposals, considering the following factors:
o Resulting fee structure;
o Performance of both funds;
o Continuity of management personnel;
o Changes in corporate governance and their impact on shareholder rights.
* * * * *
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS
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.
* * * * *
REIMBURSE SHAREHOLDER FOR EXPENSES INCURRED
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on shareholder proposals to reimburse proxy solicitation expenses. When supporting the dissidents, vote FOR the reimbursement of the proxy solicitation expenses.
* * * * *
TERMINATE THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Vote CASE-BY-CASE on proposals to terminate the investment advisor, considering the following factors:
o Performance of the fund's Net Asset Value (NAV);
o The fund's history of shareholder relations;
o The performance of other funds under the advisor's management.
* * * * *
CAMBIAR INVESTORS, LLC PROXY VOTING POLICY AND PROCEDURES
OBJECTIVE: The objective of Cambiar Investors, LLC's proxy voting process is to maximize the long-term investment performance of our clients.
POLICY: Cambiar will typically vote all proxy proposals in accordance with management recommendations unless the effect of particular resolutions could adversely affect shareholder value. In such cases, it is Cambiar's policy to vote against these proposals. If Cambiar sees it necessary to become further involved, the Analyst will directly engage management.
PROCEDURE: The procedure for processing proxy ballots is as follows:
1. Custodians are directed to send all proxy material to Cambiar Investors, LLC. Cambiar has retained Glass Lewis & Co. to provide independent research. Cambiar votes the proxies through Broadridge's Proxy Edge platform.
2. The Proxy Administrator reviews the research provided by Glass Lewis & Co. for each company meeting and each proposal. If Glass Lewis' recommendations agree and favor management Cambiar votes according to management's recommendations.
3. If non-routine proposals or proposals considered to have a potential negative investment performance impact are discovered or Glass Lewis & Co. recommends a vote against a management recommendation, the Proxy Administrator will review the particular resolutions with the Portfolio Manager responsible for the investment and vote per the Portfolio Manager's recommendations.
Where a material conflict of interest has been identified, Cambiar will notify its clients of the conflict and vote based on the PMs recommendations to ensure the best economic interests of its clients are met.
4. Cambiar keeps a record of all accounts and companies voted and provides monthly and/or quarterly reports as required through the Proxy Edge platform.
5. On a regular basis, the Proxy Administrator reviews the proxy voting record with the Portfolio Managers.
6. Copies of this procedure can be obtained free of charge by:
o calling Cambiar Investors, LLC toll-free at 888-673-9950 or
o by visiting our web site at http://www.cambiar.com or
o by writing us at: 2401 E. Second Ave. #500, Denver, CO 80206
7. By August 31, each year Cambiar's annual proxy voting record for the previous 12 months ending June 30 may be obtained free of charge by:
o calling 888-673-9950 or
o by visiting our web site at http://www.cambiar.com or
o by writing us at: 2401 E. Second Ave. #500, Denver, CO 80206
GLASS LEWIS & CO. PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES
I. ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Boards are put in place to represent shareholders and protect their interests. Glass Lewis seeks boards with a proven record of protecting shareholders and delivering value over the medium-and long-term. We believe that boards working to protect and enhance the best interests of shareholders are independent, have directors with diverse backgrounds, have a record of positive performance, and have members with a breadth and depth of relevant experience.
BOARD COMPOSITION
We look at each individual on the board and examine his or her relationships with the company, the company's executives and with other board members. The purpose of this inquiry is to determine whether pre-existing personal, familial or financial relationships are likely to impact the decisions of that board member.
We vote in favor of governance structures that will drive positive performance and enhance shareholder value. The most crucial test of a board's commitment to the company and to its shareholders is the performance of the board and its members. The performance of directors in their capacity as board members and as executives of the company, when applicable, and in their roles at other companies where they serve is critical to this evaluation.
We believe a director is independent if he or she has no material financial, familial or other current relationships with the company, its executives or other board members except for service on the board and standard fees paid for that service. Relationships that have existed within the five years prior to the inquiry are usually considered to be "current" for purposes of this test.
In our view, a director is affiliated if he or she has a material financial, familial or other relationship with the company or its executives, but is not an employee of the company. This includes directors whose employers have a material financial relationship with the Company. This also includes a director who owns or controls 20% or more of the company's voting stock.
We define an inside director as one who simultaneously serves as a director and as an employee of the company. This category may include a chairman of the board who acts as an employee of the company or is paid as an employee of the company.
Although we typically vote for the election of directors, we will recommend voting against directors (or withholding where applicable, here and following) for the following reasons:
o A director who attends less than 75% of the board and applicable committee meetings.
o A director who fails to file timely form(s) 4 or 5 (assessed on a case-by-case basis).
o A director who is also the CEO of a company where a serious restatement has occurred after the CEO certified the pre-restatement financial statements.
o All board members who served at a time when a poison pill was adopted without shareholder approval within the prior twelve months.
We also feel that the following conflicts of interest may hinder a director's performance and will therefore recommend voting against a:
o CFO who presently sits on the board.
o Director who presently sits on an excessive number of boards
o Director, or a director whose immediate family member, provides material professional services to the company at any time during the past five years.
o Director, or a director whose immediate family member, engages in airplane, real estate or other similar deals, including perquisite type grants from the company.
o Director with an interlocking directorship.
BOARD COMMITTEE COMPOSITION
All key committees including audit, compensation, governance, and nominating committees should be composed solely of independent directors and each committee should be focused on fulfilling its specific duty to shareholders. We typically recommend that shareholders vote against any affiliated or inside director seeking appointment to an audit, compensation, nominating or governance committee or who has served in that capacity in the past year.
REVIEW OF THE COMPENSATION DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS REPORT
1. We review the CD&A in our evaluation of the overall compensation practices of a company, as overseen by the compensation committee. In our evaluation of the CD&A, we examine, among other factors, the extent to which the company has used performance goals in determining overall compensation, how well the company has disclosed performance metrics and goals and the extent to which the performance metrics, targets and goals are implemented to enhance company performance. We would recommend voting against the chair of the compensation committee where the CD&A provides insufficient or unclear information about performance metrics and goals, where the CD&A indicates that pay is not tied to performance, or where the compensation committee or management has excessive discretion to alter performance terms or increase amounts of awards in contravention of previously defined targets. However, if a company provides shareholders with an advisory vote on compensation, we will recommend that shareholders only vote against the advisory compensation vote proposal unless the compensation practices are particularly egregious or persistent.
REVIEW OF RISK MANAGEMENT CONTROLS
We believe companies, particularly financial firms, should have a dedicated risk committee, or a committee of the board charged with risk oversight, as well as a chief risk officer who reports directly to that committee, not to the CEO or another executive. In cases where a company has disclosed a sizable loss or writedown, and where a reasonable analysis indicates that the company's board-level risk committee should be held accountable for poor oversight, we would recommend that shareholders vote against such committee members on that basis. In addition, in cases where a company maintains a significant level of financial risk exposure but fails to
disclose any explicit form of board-level risk oversight (committee or otherwise), we will consider recommending to vote against the chairman of the board on that basis.
SEPARATION OF THE ROLES OF CHAIRMAN AND CEO
Glass Lewis believes that separating the roles of corporate officers and the chairman of the board is a better governance structure than a combined executive/chairman position. The role of executives is to manage the business on the basis of the course charted by the board. Executives should be in the position of reporting and answering to the board for their performance in achieving the goals set out by such board. This becomes much more complicated when management actually sits on, or chairs, the board.
We view an independent chairman as better able to oversee the executives of the company and set a pro-shareholder agenda without the management conflicts that a CEO and other executive insiders often face. This, in turn, leads to a more proactive and effective board of directors that is looking out for the interests of shareholders above all else.
We do not recommend voting against CEOs who serve on or chair the board. However, we do support a separation between the roles of chairman of the board and CEO, whenever that question is posed in a proxy.
In the absence of an independent chairman, we support the appointment of a presiding or lead director with authority to set the agenda for the meetings and to lead sessions outside the presence of the insider chairman.
MAJORITY VOTING FOR THE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
Glass Lewis will generally support proposals calling for the election of directors by a majority vote in place of plurality voting. If a majority vote standard were implemented, a nominee would have to receive the support of a majority of the shares voted in order to assume the role of a director. Thus, shareholders could collectively vote to reject a director they believe will not pursue their best interests. We think that this minimal amount of protection for shareholders is reasonable and will not upset the corporate structure nor reduce the willingness of qualified shareholder-focused directors to serve in the future.
CLASSIFIED BOARDS
Glass Lewis favors the repeal of staggered boards in favor of the annual election of directors. We believe that staggered boards are less accountable to shareholders than annually elected boards. Furthermore, we feel that the annual election of directors encourages board members to focus on protecting the interests of shareholders.
MUTUAL FUND BOARDS
Mutual funds, or investment companies, are structured differently than regular public companies (i.e., operating companies). Members of the fund's adviser are typically on the board and management takes on a different role than that of other public companies. As such, although many of our guidelines remain the same, the following differences from the guidelines at operating companies apply at mutual funds:
1. We believe three-fourths of the boards of investment companies should be made up of independent directors, a stricter standard than the two-thirds independence standard we employ at operating companies.
2. We recommend voting against the chairman of the nominating committee at an investment company if the chairman and CEO of a mutual fund is the same person and the fund does not have an independent lead or presiding director.
II. FINANCIAL REPORTING
AUDITOR RATIFICATION
We believe that role of the auditor is crucial in protecting shareholder value. In our view, shareholders should demand the services of objective and well-qualified auditors at every company in which they hold an interest. Like directors, auditors should be free from conflicts of interest and should assiduously avoid situations that require them to make choices between their own interests and the interests of the shareholders.
Glass Lewis generally supports management's recommendation regarding the selection of an auditor. However, we recommend voting against the ratification of auditors for the following reasons:
o When audit fees added to audit-related fees total less than one-third of total fees.
o When there have been any recent restatements or late filings by the company where the auditor bears some responsibility for the restatement or late filing (e.g. , a restatement due to a reporting error).
o When the company has aggressive accounting policies.
o When the company has poor disclosure or lack of transparency in financial statements.
o When there are other relationships or issues of concern with the auditor that might suggest a conflict between the interest of the auditor and the interests of shareholders.
o When the company is changing auditors as a result of a disagreement between the company and the auditor on a matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure or auditing scope or procedures.
AUDITOR ROTATION
We typically support audit related proposals regarding mandatory auditor rotation when the proposal uses a reasonable period of time (usually not less than 5-7 years).
PENSION ACCOUNTING ISSUES
Proxy proposals sometimes raise the question as to whether pension accounting should have an effect on the company's net income and therefore be reflected in the performance of the business for purposes of calculating payments to executives. It is our view that pension credits should not be included in measuring income used to award performance-based compensation. Many of the assumptions used in accounting for retirement plans are subject to the discretion of a company, and management would have an obvious conflict of interest if pay were tied to pension income.
III. COMPENSATION
EQUITY BASED COMPENSATION PLANS
Glass Lewis evaluates option and other equity-based compensation on a case-by-case basis. We believe that equity compensation awards are a useful tool, when not abused, for retaining and incentivizing employees to engage in conduct that will improve the performance of the company.
We evaluate option plans based on ten overarching principles:
o Companies should seek additional shares only when needed.
o The number of shares requested should be small enough that companies need shareholder approval every three to four years (or more frequently).
o If a plan is relatively expensive, it should not be granting options solely to senior executives and board members.
o Annual net share count and voting power dilution should be limited.
o Annual cost of the plan (especially if not shown on the income statement) should be reasonable as a percentage of financial results and in line with the peer group.
o The expected annual cost of the plan should be proportional to the value of the business.
o The intrinsic value received by option grantees in the past should be reasonable compared with the financial results of the business.
o Plans should deliver value on a per-employee basis when compared with programs at peer companies.
o Plans should not permit re-pricing of stock options.
OPTION EXCHANGES
Option exchanges are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, although they are approached with great skepticism. Repricing is tantamount to a re-trade. We will support a repricing only if the following conditions are true:
o Officers and board members do not participate in the program.
o The stock decline mirrors the market or industry price decline in terms of timing and approximates the decline in magnitude.
o The exchange is value neutral or value creative to shareholders with very conservative assumptions and a recognition of the adverse selection problems inherent in voluntary programs.
o Management and the board make a cogent case for needing to incentivize and retain existing employees, such as being in a competitive employment market.
PERFORMANCE BASED OPTIONS
We generally recommend that shareholders vote in favor of performance-based option requirements. We feel that executives should be compensated with equity when their performance and that of the company warrants such rewards. We believe that boards can develop a consistent, reliable approach, as boards of many companies have, that would attract executives who believe in their ability to guide the company to achieve its targets.
LINKING PAY WITH PERFORMANCE
Executive compensation should be linked directly with the performance of the business the executive is charged with managing. Glass Lewis grades companies on an A to F scale based on our analysis of executive compensation relative to performance and that of the company's peers and will recommend voting against the election of compensation committee members at companies that receive a grade of F.
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION PLANS
Non-employee directors should receive compensation for the time and effort they spend serving on the board and its committees. In particular, we support compensation plans that include equity-based awards, which help to align the interests of outside directors with those of shareholders. Director fees should be competitive in order to retain and attract qualified individuals.
ADVISORY VOTES ON COMPENSATION
We closely review companies' compensation practices and disclosure as outlined in their CD&As and other company filings to evaluate management-submitted advisory compensation vote proposals. In evaluating these non-binding proposals, we examine how well the company has disclosed information pertinent to its compensation programs, the extent to which overall compensation is tied to performance, the performance metrics selected by the company and the levels of compensation in comparison to company performance and that of its peers. Glass Lewis will generally recommend voting in favor of shareholder proposals to allow shareholders an advisory vote on compensation.
LIMITS ON EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Proposals to limit executive compensation will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. As a general rule, we believe that executive compensation should be left to the board's compensation committee. We view the election of directors, and specifically those who sit on the compensation committee, as the appropriate mechanism for shareholders to express their disapproval or support of board policy on this issue.
LIMITS ON EXECUTIVE STOCK OPTIONS
We favor the grant of options to executives. Options are a very important component of compensation packages designed to attract and retain experienced executives and other key employees. Tying a portion of an executive's compensation to the performance of the company also provides an excellent incentive to maximize share values by those in the best position to affect those values. Accordingly, we typically vote against caps on executive stock options.
IV. GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE
ANTI-TAKEOVER MEASURES
POISON PILLS (SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS PLANS)
Glass Lewis believes that poison pill plans generally are not in the best interests of shareholders. Specifically, they can reduce management accountability by substantially limiting opportunities
for corporate takeovers. Rights plans can thus prevent shareholders from receiving a buy-out premium for their stock.
We believe that boards should be given wide latitude in directing the activities of the company and charting the company's course. However, on an issue such as this where the link between the financial interests of shareholders and their right to consider and accept buyout offers is so substantial, we believe that shareholders should be allowed to vote on whether or not they support such a plan's implementation.
In certain limited circumstances, we will support a limited poison pill to accomplish a particular objective, such as the closing of an important merger, or a pill that contains what we believe to be a reasonable 'qualifying offer' clause.
RIGHT OF SHAREHOLDERS TO CALL A SPECIAL MEETING
We will vote in favor of proposals that allow shareholders to call special meetings. In order to prevent abuse and waste of corporate resources by a very small minority of shareholders, we believe that such rights should be limited to a minimum threshold of at least 15% of the shareholders requesting such a meeting.
SHAREHOLDER ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT
We will vote in favor of proposals that allow shareholders to act by written consent. In order to prevent abuse and waste of corporate resources by a very small minority of shareholders, we believe that such rights should be limited to a minimum threshold of at least 15% of the shareholders requesting action by written consent.
AUTHORIZED SHARES
Proposals to increase the number of authorized shares will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Adequate capital stock is important to the operation of a company. When analyzing a request for additional shares, we typically review four common reasons why a company might need additional capital stock beyond what is currently available:
1. Stock split
2. Shareholder defenses
3. Financing for acquisitions
4. Financing for operations
Unless we find that the company has not disclosed a detailed plan for use of the proposed shares, or where the number of shares far exceeds those needed to accomplish a detailed plan, we typically recommend in favor of the authorization of additional shares.
VOTING STRUCTURE
CUMULATIVE VOTING
Glass Lewis will vote for proposals seeking to allow cumulative voting unless the company has majority voting for the election of directors in which case we will vote against. Cumulative voting is a voting process that maximizes the ability of minority shareholders to ensure representation of their views on the board. Cumulative voting generally operates as a safeguard for by ensuring
that those who hold a significant minority of shares are able to elect a candidate of their choosing to the board.
SUPERMAJORITY VOTE REQUIREMENTS
Glass Lewis favors a simple majority voting structure. Supermajority vote requirements act as impediments to shareholder action on ballot items that are critical to our interests. One key example is in the takeover context where supermajority vote requirements can strongly limit shareholders' input in making decisions on such crucial matters as selling the business.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
Shareholder proposals are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. We generally favor proposals that are likely to increase shareholder value and/or promote and protect shareholder rights. We typically prefer to leave decisions regarding day-to-day management of the business and policy decisions related to political, social or environmental issues to management and the board except when we see a clear and direct link between the proposal and some economic or financial issue for the company.
KEMPNER CAPITAL MANAGEMENT PROXY VOTING POLICY
KCM's policy regarding the voting of proxies is to insure that our voting selections are in the best interests of our clients. KCM takes into consideration several issues in the enforcing of this policy.
GENERAL PROXY VOTING POLICY
Since protection of our clients' interest is our most important concern, we vote against management's recommendation on some issues where we feel it is necessary, taking each proposal individually and analyzing its merits. Examples of some voting issues with which we are concerned:
o Selection of auditors
o KCM attempts to take into consideration an auditor's litigation history and current standing in the financial community.
o Shareholder Rights.
o KCM tries to insure that the voting of a proposal does not cause unnecessary dilution of minority shareholder rights.
o Stock Issuance Plans
o KCM approves stock-issuance plans that are tied to earnings growth and stock performance.
The KCM Investment Committee added further specifics to the proxy voting policy in 2006.
KCM will vote:
O AGAINST -- CUMULATE VOTING
o KCM believes voting against cumulative voting to be in the best interest of the minority shareholders.
O FOR -- THE REQUIREMENT OF A MAJORITY FOR ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
o KCM believes voting for majority voting would give shareholders a meaningful role in the director election process. Under plurality voting standards, a nominee in a director election can be elected with as little as a single affirmative vote, even if a substantial majority of votes cast are "withheld" from that nominee. The majority vote standard would require that a director receive a majority of the vote caste in order to be elected to the Board.
O AGAINST -- SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS REGARDING POLITICAL AND CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS
o KCM believes company disclosure requirements for political and charitable contributions are sufficient.
O FOR -- SEPARATION OF CHAIRMAN AND CEO
o Separation of Chairman and CEO positions are believed to be in the best interest of the shareholders.
O FOR -- DECLASSIFIED BOARD -- ANNUAL ELECTION OF BOARD MEMBERS
o KCM believes the annual election of Board members to be in the best interest of shareholders.
PROXY DECISION-MAKING PROCESS
Our decisions come as a result of researching the proxy statement and annual report, which accompanied the proxy material as well as continually following the company in general as an investment policy. The ongoing research is the responsibility of the entire portfolio management team, but analyst, Shawn Gault, reviews each proxy statement and gives the final voting instructions to operations personnel.
It is KCM's policy to:
o Review all proxy materials on portfolio companies, and to vote those proxies in each election.
o Resist and vote against efforts by management to concentrate voting control in itself, efforts of management to dilute the percentage ownership of minority shareholders, and attempts by management to enhance their personal economic condition at the expense of shareholders in the case of a merger, buy-out tender, management-led leveraged buy-out or restructuring efforts in whatever form.
o Support equitable performance or incentive-based stock acquisition programs in favor of management. We believe that a reasonable level of stock ownership by management, to be earned serially over a long period of time, tends to benefit the interests of the minority shareholder.
In light of the ever-increasing number of "social" issue events entered in proxies, KCM votes solely on the considerations outlined above. Specific instructions from the client are honored, and KCM does vote according to those instructions, as long as they are not in direct conflict with prudent investment management. In such a case, the ramifications are discussed with the client before voting.
KCM does NOT vote proxies when the cost of doing so is impractical. The following proxies will NOT be voted:
o Proxies written in a language other than English, for which no translation has been provided.
o Proxies that require travel overseas in order to vote.
o Proxies for legacy securities held in a new account previously managed by another manager that KCM intends to sell.
o Proxies for securities held in a portion of client's portfolio that is not managed by KCM.
o Proxies for securities on loan that must be recalled in order to vote.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
KCM recognizes that conflicts of interest could arise in the proxy decision-making process. For example, if a proponent of a proxy proposal has a business relationship with KCM, or an employee of KCM has a personal interest in the outcome of a matter before shareholders, a conflict could exist.
KCM's compliance policies prohibit employees from serving as a director on the board of any public company, without approval of KCM's Board of Directors. It is KCM's policy not to trade in the securities of any company that has a KCM employee on its Board, so proxy voting would not be an issue. Currently no employees serve on the Boards of any public companies. Harris L. Kempner, Jr. does serve as an advisory director on the Board of Cullen Frost Bankers, Inc. but it is an honorary position only. He does not attend voting Board Meetings or receive non-public information of any kind.
All proxies are reviewed in KCM's weekly Investment Committee Meetings. Any proxies involving a possible conflict of interest will be reviewed thoroughly by the Committee. Outside counsel will be consulted if the Investment Committee deems it prudent, to be sure the proxies are voted in the best interest of KCM's clients.
RECORD KEEPING
Delynn Greene, Vice President of KCM, votes each proxy electronically at the Proxyvote.com website. KCM maintains records on proxies voted for a period of 5 years. These records detail how each proxy was voted and the reasons for any votes against management. Client requests for information on proxies voted are also maintained for a period of 3 years.
The Funds' proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is available upon request by calling 1-877-71-Frost or by writing to the Funds at Frost Funds P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, MO 64121-9009. In accordance with Securities and Exchange regulations, all Funds file a record of all proxy voting activity for the prior 12 months ending June 30th. That filing is made on or before August 31st of each year.
REVISED MARCH, 2007
LUTHER KING CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
I. INTRODUCTION AND GENERAL PRINCIPLES
A. Luther King Capital Management ("LKCM") has been delegated the authority and
responsibility to vote the proxies of its investment advisory clients,
including both ERISA and non-ERISA clients.
B. LKCM understands that proxy voting is an integral aspect of investment management. Accordingly, proxy voting must be conducted with the same degree of prudence and loyalty accorded any fiduciary or other obligation of an investment adviser.
C. LKCM believes that the following policies and procedures are reasonably designed to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interest of clients, in accordance with LKCM's fiduciary duty, applicable rules under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, and fiduciary standards and responsibilities for ERISA clients set out in Department of Labor interpretations.
D. Notwithstanding the foregoing, LKCM will not vote proxies for any client that retains discretionary authority to vote its proxies or if LKCM otherwise does not have discretionary authority to vote the client's proxies. In such event, it is the responsibility of the client to vote such proxies and to instruct its custodian to mail proxy materials directly to such client accordingly.
II. PROXY VOTING PROCEDURES
A. The Chief Compliance Officer (the "CCO") is responsible for monitoring the
proxy voting process, including engaging and overseeing any third-party vendor
retained to review, monitor, or vote proxies.
B. LKCM has engaged Institutional Shareholder Services, Inc. ("ISS") as its voting delegate to:
(1) research and make voting determinations in accordance with the policies and procedures described herein;
(2) vote and submit proxies in a timely manner;
(3) handle other administrative functions of proxy voting;
(4) maintain records of proxy statements received in connection with proxy votes and provide copies of such proxy statements promptly upon request;
(5) maintain records of votes cast; and
(6) provide recommendations with respect to proxy voting matters in general.
C. Except in instances where clients have retained discretionary authority to vote proxies, LKCM will instruct custodians of client accounts to forward proxy statements and materials received in respect of client accounts to ISS.
III. PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES
A. LKCM 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 ISS Voting Guidelines in effect at the time of voting (as applicable, the "ISS Voting Guidelines"). LKCM will periodically review the ISS Voting Guidelines, including any significant changes or updates thereto. In connection with such reviews, LKCM may determine that it is not in the best interest of its clients to vote proxies in accordance with the ISS Voting Guidelines on certain matters. In such event, LKCM will follow the procedures identified in Section III(C) below in connection with voting any such proxies contrary to the ISS Voting Guidelines.
B. In the event the ISS Voting Guidelines do not address how a proxy should be voted, LKCM will vote the proxy in accordance with ISS recommendations. If ISS refrains from making any such recommendations, LKCM will vote the proxy consistent with the general principles of these policies and procedures and in the client's best interest. Prior to voting any proxies in the absence of ISS recommendations, however, the CCO will determine whether any material conflict of interest may exist between LKCM and the client with respect thereto. If the CCO determines that any such material conflict of interest may exist, LKCM will follow the procedures identified in Section IV (B) below in connection with the voting of such proxies.
C. There may be circumstances under which LKCM believes that it is in the best interest of clients to vote proxies in a manner inconsistent with the ISS Voting Guidelines or ISS recommendations. Prior to voting any proxies inconsistent with the ISS Voting Guidelines or ISS recommendations, however, the CCO will determine whether any material conflict of interest may exist between LKCM and the client with respect thereto. If the CCO determines that any such material conflict of interest may exist, LKCM will follow the procedures identified in Section IV (B) below in connection with the voting of such proxies.
IV. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
A. LKCM has obtained a copy of ISS' Policies, Procedures and Practices
Regarding Potential Conflicts of Interest (as amended or updated from time to
time, the "ISS Conflict Policy"), which addresses conflicts of interest that
could arise in connection with advisory services provided by ISS or its
affiliates. LKCM believes that the ISS Conflict Policy contains policies and
procedures that are reasonably designed to minimize any such potential
conflicts of interest.
B. In the event that LKCM or the CCO determines that voting a proxy may present a material conflict of interest between LKCM and the client, LKCM will (1) in cases where ISS had made a recommendation, take no further action, in which case ISS shall vote such proxy in accordance with the ISS Voting Guidelines or ISS recommendations, as applicable, (2) disclose such conflict of interest to the client and obtain written direction from the client as to how to vote the proxy, (3) suggest that the client engage another party to determine how to vote the proxy, or (4) engage another independent third party to determine how to vote the proxy.
C. Notwithstanding the foregoing, LKCM must vote proxies in the best interest of clients when material conflicts of interest may exist with respect thereto.
D. LKCM believes that the foregoing policies and procedures are reasonably designed to address material conflicts of interest that may arise between LKCM and a client as to the manner in which proxies are voted.
V. RECORDKEEPING
LKCM will maintain records relating to the implementation of these policies and
procedures, including:
(1) a copy of these policies and procedures, which will 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 LKCM's behalf;
(4) any other document created by LKCM that was material in making a decision to vote proxies on behalf of a client or that memorializes the basis for that decision; and
(5) each written client request for proxy voting records and LKCM's written response with respect thereto.
Such books and records will be maintained at LKCM's offices in an easily accessible place for a period of five years.
The Funds' proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is available upon request by calling 1-877-71-Frost or by writing to the Funds at Frost Funds P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, MO 64121-9009. In accordance with Securities and Exchange regulations, all Funds file a record of all proxy voting activity for the prior 12 months ending June 30th. That filing is made on or before August 31st of each year.
Updated: February 23, 2007
THORNBURG INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT INC. AND THORNBURG INVESTMENT TRUST POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL
PROXY VOTING
POLICY
As a matter of policy and as a fiduciary to their investment clients, TIM has
responsibility for voting proxies for portfolio securities consistent with the
best economic interests of the clients. TIM's policy and practice includes the
responsibility to monitor corporate actions, receive and vote client proxies
and disclose any potential conflicts of interest as well as making information
available to clients about the voting of proxies for their portfolio securities
and maintaining relevant and required records. The complete Policy on Proxy
Voting adopted by the Companies is attached here to as Exhibit Y. The remainder
of this section is a summary of that policy.
PURPOSE
Investment advisers registered with the SEC, and which exercise voting authority with respect to client securities, are required by Rule 206(4)-6 of the Advisers Act to (a) adopt and implement written policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to ensure that client securities are voted in the best interests of clients, which must include how an adviser addresses material conflicts that may arise between an adviser's interests and those of its clients; (b) to disclose to clients how they may obtain information from the adviser with respect to the voting of proxies for their securities; (c) to describe to clients a summary of its proxy voting policies and procedures and, upon request, furnish a copy to its clients; and (d) maintain certain records relating to the adviser's proxy voting activities when the adviser does have proxy voting authority.
This Policy is intended by TIM to constitute "written policies and procedures" as described in Rule 206(4)--6 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act"). This Policy is intended by Thornburg Investment Trust to constitute proxy voting policies and procedures referred to in Item 13 of Form N-1A adopted under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act").
RESPONSIBILITY
The designated Proxy Voting Coordinator is responsible for the implementation and monitoring of our proxy voting policy, practices, disclosures and record keeping.
PROCEDURE
The Companies have adopted various procedures to implement this policy and reviews to monitor and ensure the policy is observed, implemented properly and amended or updated, as appropriate which may be summarized as follows:
VOTING OBJECTIVES
The objective of voting a security in each case under the Policy is to seek to
enhance the value of the security, or to reduce potential for a decline in the
security's value. The Policy does not prescribe voting requirements or specific
voting considerations. Instead, the Policy provides procedures for assembling
voting information and applying the informed expertise and judgment of TIM's
personnel on a timely basis in pursuit of the above stated voting objectives. A
further element of the Policy is that while voting on all issues presented
should be considered, voting on all issues is not required unless specifically
directed or required by a Client. It is also important to the pursuit of the
Policy's voting objectives that TIM be able to substitute its judgment in any
specific situation. Accordingly, TIM understands that it may substitute its judgment in a specific voting situation described in the Policy, except where explicitly prohibited by the Investment Client or the Policy.
PROXY VOTING COORDINATOR DUTIES
o Collecting and assembling proxy statements and other communications pertaining to proxy voting; together with proxies or other means of voting or giving voting instructions, and providing those materials to the appropriate portfolio managers to permit timely voting of proxies;
o Collecting recommendations, analysis, commentary and other information respecting subjects of proxy votes, from service providers engaged by TIM and other services specified by portfolio managers, and providing this information to the appropriate portfolio managers to permit evaluation of proxy voting issues;
o Maintain a list of all accounts, with a specification as to each account whether or not TIM is authorized to vote proxies respecting the account's portfolio securities and provide the appropriate portfolio managers any specific voting instructions from investment clients;
o Collecting proxy votes or instructions from portfolio managers, and transmitting the votes or instructions to the appropriate custodians, brokers, nominees or other persons;
o Accumulating Voting Results (which may be performed by proxy voting services or agents engaged by TIM) and transmitting or arranging for the transmission of that information;
o Communicate proxy voting information respecting votes on portfolio
securities held by investment clients, including investment company
clients provide in writing to any investment client requesting
information on voting of proxies with respect to portfolio securities
1) name of issuer; 2) ticker symbol and CUSIP number; 3) shareholder
meeting date; 4) matter voted on; 5) whether a vote was cast; 6) how
the vote was cast;
o Participating in the annual review of policy function.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
The portfolio manager responsible for management of a specific Account is
responsible for timely voting (or determining not to vote in appropriate cases)
proxies relating to securities in the Account in accordance with this Policy.
The President may exercise this authority in any instance. The portfolio
manager or President may delegate voting responsibilities to one or more other
portfolio managers or other individuals. Persons exercising voting authority
under this paragraph are authorized to consider voting recommendations and
other information and analysis from service providers (including proxy voting
services) engaged by TIM.
RESOLUTION OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
In any case where a portfolio manager determines that a proxy vote involves an
actual Conflict of Interest, and the proxy vote relates to the election of a
director in an uncontested election or ratification of selection of independent
accountants, the portfolio manager shall vote the proxy in accordance with the
recommendation of any proxy voting service engaged by TIM. If no such
recommendation is available, or if the proxy vote involves any other matters,
the portfolio manager shall immediately refer the vote to the Investment Client
(or in the case of any Investment Company as to which TIM is the adviser or
subadviser and is authorized to vote
proxies, to the chairman of its audit committee) for direction on the voting of the proxy or consent to vote in accordance with the portfolio manager's recommendation. In all cases where such a vote is referred to the Investment Client, TIM shall disclose the Conflict of Interest to the Investment Client.
JOINING INSURGENT OR VOTING COMMITTEES
It is the policy of TIM, for itself and the Accounts, not to join any insurgent
or voting committee or similar group. The President may approve participation
in any such committee or group in his discretion, and shall advise the
authorized representatives for the Account of any such action.
SOCIAL ISSUES
It is the presumption of this Policy that proxies shall not be voted on Social
Issues. The President may approve voting of any security in an Account on any
Social Issue.
The Funds' proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is available upon request by calling 1-877-71-Frost or by writing to the Funds at Frost Funds P.O. Box 219009 Kansas City, MO 64121-9009. In accordance with Securities and Exchange regulations, all Funds file a record of all proxy voting activity for the prior 12 months ending June 30th. That filing is made on or before August 31st of each year.
ERISA ACCOUNTS
In considering proxy votes for ERISA Accounts:
1. Plan trustees are ordinarily responsible for voting securities held by a plan, unless the plan documents direct TIM or another person to vote the proxies.
2. If TIM is delegated authority to vote proxies, voting may be subject to specific written guidelines issued by the plan's trustees or other officials.
3. TIM may not delegate authority to vote proxies, unless the plan documents or other written agreement expressly permit delegation.
ENGAGEMENT OF SERVICE PROVIDERS
Any portion or all of any one or more of these functions may be performed by service providers engaged by TIM. Persons exercising voting authority under the Policy are authorized to consider voting recommendations and other information and analysis from service providers (including proxy voting services) engaged by TIM. The President may authorize the Proxy Voting Coordinator to engage one or more service providers to perform any portion of their recordkeeping function provided (1) the function is performed in compliance with then applicable governmental regulations, and (2) each service provider provides a written undertaking to furnish the records to TIM promptly upon request.
BOOKS AND RECORDS
In its books and records, the Proxy Voting Coordinator will:
Maintain copies of this Policy as from time to time revised or supplemented.
o Maintain a copy of each proxy statement that TIM receives regarding Investment Client securities. In maintaining a record of proxy statements referred to in this item, the Proxy
Voting Coordinator may rely on obtaining copies from the Securities and Exchange Commission's EDGAR system.
o Maintain voting Results for each Investment Client.
o Maintain a copy of any document created by TIM that was material to making a decision how to vote proxies on behalf of an Investment Client or that memorializes the basis for that decision.
o Maintain a copy of each written Investment Client request for information on how TIM voted proxies on behalf of the Investment Client, and a copy of any written response by TIM to any (written or oral) Investment Client request for information on how TIM voted proxies on behalf of the requesting Investment Client.
o Maintain copies of communications to Investment Clients respecting Conflicts of Interest.
In its books and records, the Chief Compliance Officer will:
o Maintain all written reports arising from annual reviews of policy function.
These items will be maintained for a total period of five years. For the first two years these items will be stored in a designated area at the Companies' principal place of business, after the two-year period they can be moved and stored offsite.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
GRT VALUE FUND
ADVISOR CLASS SHARES (GRTVX)
A SERIES OF THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
GRT CAPITAL PARTNERS, L.L.C.
(THE "ADVISER")
This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") is not a prospectus. This SAI is intended to provide additional information regarding the activities and operations of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II (the "Trust") and the GRT Value Fund (the "Fund"). This SAI is incorporated by reference into and should be read in conjunction with the prospectus dated November 29, 2010. Capitalized terms not defined herein are defined in the Prospectus. The Fund's financial statements and financial highlights including notes thereto, and the report of Ernst & Young LLP for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010 are contained in the 2010 Annual Report to Shareholders and are incorporated by reference into and are deemed to be part of this SAI. A copy of the Fund's 2010 Annual Report to Shareholders accompanies the delivery of this SAI. A Prospectus or Annual Report may be obtained by writing the Trust at P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 or calling toll-free 1-877-GRT-4GRT (1-877-478-4478).
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THE TRUST .................................................................. X ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES ............. XX DESCRIPTION OF PERMITTED INVESTMENTS ....................................... XX INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS ..................................................... XX THE ADVISER ................................................................ XX THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ..................................................... XX THE ADMINISTRATOR .......................................................... XX THE DISTRIBUTOR ............................................................ XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ....................................... XX THE TRANSFER AGENT ......................................................... XX THE CUSTODIAN .............................................................. XX INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM .............................. XX LEGAL COUNSEL .............................................................. XX TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST ......................................... XX PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES ............................................ XX DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE ........................................... XX TAXES ...................................................................... XX FUND TRANSACTIONS .......................................................... XX PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ......................................................... XX DESCRIPTION OF SHARES ...................................................... XX SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY ...................................................... XX LIMITATION OF TRUSTEES' LIABILITY .......................................... XX PROXY VOTING ............................................................... XX CODES OF ETHICS ............................................................ XX 5% AND 25% SHAREHOLDERS .................................................... XX APPENDIX A -- RATINGS ...................................................... A-1 APPENDIX B -- PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ......................... B-1 November 29, 2010 [INSERT CODE] |
THE TRUST
GENERAL. The Fund is a separate series of the Trust. The Trust is an open-end investment management company established under Massachusetts law as a Massachusetts voluntary association (commonly known as a business trust) under a Declaration of Trust dated July 24, 1992, as amended and restated as of February 18, 2004 and August 10, 2004. Prior to August 10, 2004, the Trust's name was The Arbor Fund. The Declaration of Trust permits the Trust to offer separate series ("funds") of shares of beneficial interest ("shares"). The Trust reserves the right to create and issue shares of additional funds. Each fund is a separate mutual fund, and each share of each fund represents an equal proportionate interest in that fund. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any fund and all assets of such fund belong solely to that fund and would be subject to liabilities related thereto. The Fund pays its (i) operating expenses, including fees of its service providers, expenses of preparing prospectuses, proxy solicitation material and reports to shareholders, costs of custodial services and registering its shares under federal and state securities laws, pricing and insurance expenses, brokerage costs, interest charges, taxes and organization expenses; and (ii) pro rata shares of the Fund's other expenses, including audit and legal expenses. Expenses attributable to a specific fund shall be payable solely out of the assets of that fund. Expenses not attributable to a specific fund are allocated across all of the funds on the basis of relative net assets. The other funds of the Trust are described in one or more separate Statements of Additional Information. The Trust is authorized to offer shares of the Fund in Advisor Class Shares. The Trust reserves the right to create and issue additional classes of shares.
VOTING RIGHTS. Each shareholder of record is entitled to one vote for each share held on the record date for the meeting. The Fund will vote on matters relating solely to it. As a Massachusetts voluntary association, the Trust is not required, and does not intend, to hold annual meetings of shareholders. Approval of shareholders will be sought, however, for certain changes in the operation of the Trust and for the election of Trustees under certain circumstances. Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees have the power to liquidate the Fund without shareholder approval. While the Trustees have no present intention of exercising this power, they may do so if the Fund fails to reach a viable size within a reasonable amount of time or for such other reasons as may be determined by the Board of Trustees.
In addition, a Trustee may be removed by the remaining Trustees or by shareholders at a special meeting called upon written request of shareholders owning at least 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust. In the event that such a meeting is requested, the Trust will provide appropriate assistance and information to the shareholders requesting the meeting.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE AND POLICIES
The Fund's investment objective and principal investment strategies are described in the Fund's Prospectus. The Fund is classified as a "diversified" investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). The following information supplements, and should be read in conjunction with, the Prospectus.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATES. Portfolio turnover rate is defined under U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") rules as the value of the securities purchased or securities sold, excluding all securities whose maturities at the time of acquisition were one year or less, divided by the average monthly value of such securities owned during the year. Based on this definition, instruments with remaining maturities of less than one year are excluded from the calculation of the portfolio turnover rate. Instruments excluded from the calculation of portfolio turnover generally would include the futures contracts in which the Fund may invest since such contracts generally have remaining maturities of less than one year. The Fund may at times hold investments in other short-term instruments, such as repurchase agreements, which are excluded for purposes of computing portfolio turnover. For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the portfolio turnover rates for the Fund were as follows:
--------------------------------------------------- PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATES --------------------------------------------------- FUND 2009 2010 --------------------------------------------------- GRT Value Fund 95% XX% --------------------------------------------------- |
DESCRIPTION OF PERMITTED INVESTMENTS
The following are descriptions of the Fund's permitted investments and investment practices and the associated risk factors. The Fund will only invest in any of the following instruments or engage in any of the following investment practices if such investment or activity is consistent with the Fund's investment objective and permitted by the Fund's stated investment policies.
EQUITY SECURITIES
TYPES OF EQUITY SECURITIES:
COMMON STOCKS -- Common stocks represent units of ownership in a company. Common stocks usually carry voting rights and earn dividends. Unlike preferred stocks, which are described below, dividends on common stocks are not fixed but are declared at the discretion of the company's board of directors.
PREFERRED STOCKS -- Preferred stocks are also units of ownership in a company. Preferred stocks normally have preference over common stock in the payment of dividends and the liquidation of the company. However, in all other respects, preferred stocks are subordinated to the liabilities of the issuer. Unlike common stocks, preferred stocks are generally not entitled to vote on corporate matters. Types of preferred stocks include adjustable-rate preferred stock, fixed dividend preferred stock, perpetual preferred stock, and sinking fund preferred stock. Generally, the market values of preferred stock with a fixed dividend rate and no conversion element varies inversely with interest rates and perceived credit risk.
CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES - Convertible securities are securities that may be exchanged for, converted into, or exercised to acquire a predetermined number of shares of the issuer's common stock at the Fund's option during a specified time period (such as convertible preferred stocks, convertible debentures and warrants). A convertible security is generally a fixed income security that is senior to common stock in an issuer's capital structure, but is usually subordinated to similar non-convertible securities. In exchange for the conversion feature, many corporations will pay a lower rate of interest on convertible securities than debt securities of the same corporation. In general, the market value of a convertible security is at least the higher of its "investment value" (I.E., its value as a fixed income security) or its "conversion value" (I.E., its value upon conversion into its underlying common stock).
Convertible securities are subject to the same risks as similar securities without the convertible feature. The price of a convertible security is more volatile during times of steady interest rates than other types of debt securities. The price of a convertible security tends to increase as the market value of the underlying stock rises, whereas it tends to decrease as the market value of the underlying common stock declines.
A synthetic convertible security is a combination investment in which the Fund purchases both (i) high-grade cash equivalents or a high grade debt obligation of an issuer or U.S. government securities and (ii) call options or warrants on the common stock of the same or different issuer with some or all of the anticipated interest income from the associated debt obligation that is earned over the holding period of the option or warrant.
While providing a fixed income stream (generally higher in yield than the income derivable from common stock but lower than that afforded by a similar non-convertible security), a convertible security also affords an investor the opportunity, through its conversion feature, to participate in the capital appreciation attendant upon a market price advance in the convertible security's underlying common stock. A synthetic convertible position has similar investment characteristics, but may differ with respect to credit quality, time to maturity, trading characteristics, and other factors. Because the Fund will create synthetic convertible positions only out of high grade fixed income securities, the credit rating associated with the Fund's synthetic convertible investments is generally expected to be higher than that of the average convertible security, many of which are rated below high grade. However, because the options used to create synthetic convertible positions will generally have expirations between one month and three years of the time of purchase, the maturity of these positions will generally be shorter than average for convertible securities. Since the option component of a convertible security or synthetic convertible position is a wasting asset (in the sense of losing "time value" as maturity approaches), a synthetic convertible position may lose such value more rapidly than a convertible security of longer maturity; however, the gain in option value due to appreciation of the underlying stock may exceed such time value loss, the market price of the option component generally reflects these differences in maturities, and the Adviser takes such differences into account when evaluating such positions. When a synthetic convertible position "matures" because of the expiration of the associated option, the Fund may extend the maturity by investing in a new option with longer maturity on the common stock of the same or different issuer. If the Fund does not so extend the maturity of a position, it may continue to hold the associated fixed income security.
RIGHTS AND WARRANTS -- A right is a privilege granted to existing shareholders of a corporation to subscribe to shares of a new issue of common stock before it is issued. Rights normally have a short life, usually two to four weeks, are freely transferable and entitle the holder to buy the new common stock at a lower price than the public offering price. Warrants are securities that are usually issued together with a debt security or preferred stock and that give the holder the right to buy proportionate amount of common stock at a specified price. Warrants are freely transferable and are traded on major exchanges. Unlike rights, warrants normally have a life that is measured in years and entitles the holder to buy common stock of a company at a price that is usually higher than the market price at the time the warrant is issued. Corporations often issue warrants to make the accompanying debt security more attractive.
An investment in warrants and rights may entail greater risks than certain other types of investments. Generally, rights and warrants do not carry the right to receive dividends or exercise voting rights with respect to the underlying securities, and they do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuer. In addition, their value does not necessarily change with the value of the underlying securities, and they cease to have value if they are not exercised on or before their expiration date. Investing in rights and warrants increases the potential profit or loss to be realized from the investment as compared with investing the same amount in the underlying securities.
RISKS OF INVESTING IN EQUITY SECURITIES:
GENERAL RISKS OF INVESTING IN STOCKS -- While investing in stocks allows investors to participate in the benefits of owning a company, such investors must accept the risks of ownership. Unlike bondholders, who have preference to a company's earnings and cash flow, preferred stockholders, followed by common stockholders in order of priority, are entitled only to the residual amount after a company meets its other obligations. For this reason, the value of a company's stock will usually react more strongly to actual or perceived changes in the company's financial condition or prospects than its debt obligations. Stockholders of a company that fares poorly can lose money.
Stock markets tend to move in cycles with short or extended periods of rising and falling stock prices. The value of a company's stock may fall because of:
o Factors that directly relate to that company, such as decisions made by its management or lower demand for the company's products or services;
o Factors affecting an entire industry, such as increases in production costs; and
o Changes in general financial market conditions that are relatively unrelated to the company or its industry, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates or inflation rates.
Because preferred stock is generally junior to debt securities and other obligations of the issuer, deterioration in the credit quality of the issuer will cause greater changes in the value of a preferred stock than in a more senior debt security with similar stated yield characteristics.
SMALL AND MEDIUM-SIZED COMPANIES - Investors in small and medium-sized companies typically take on greater risk and price volatility than they would by investing in larger, more established companies. This increased risk may be due to the greater business risks of their small or medium size, limited markets and financial resources, narrow product lines and frequent lack of management depth. The securities of small and medium-sized companies are often traded in the over-the-counter market and might not be traded in volumes typical of securities traded on a national securities exchange. Thus, the securities of small and medium capitalization companies are likely to be less liquid, and subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements, than securities of larger, more established companies.
TECHNOLOGY COMPANIES - Stocks of technology companies have tended to be subject to greater volatility than securities of companies that are not dependent upon or associated with technological issues. Technology companies operate in various industries. Since these industries frequently share common characteristics, an event or issue affecting one industry may significantly influence other, related industries. For example, technology companies may be strongly affected by worldwide scientific or technological developments and their products and services may be subject to governmental regulation or adversely affected by governmental policies.
INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS ("IPO") -- The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities of companies offering shares in IPOs. IPOs may have a magnified performance impact on the Fund with a small asset base. The impact of IPOs on the Fund's performance likely will decrease as the Fund's asset size increases, which could reduce the Fund's total returns. IPOs may not be consistently available to the Fund for investing, particularly as the Fund's asset base grows. Because IPO shares frequently are volatile in price, the Fund may hold IPO shares for a very short period of time. This may increase the turnover of the Fund's portfolio and may lead to increased expenses for the Fund, such as commissions and transaction costs. By selling IPO shares, the Fund may realize taxable gains it will subsequently distribute to shareholders. In addition, the market for IPO shares can be speculative and/or inactive for extended periods of time. The limited number of shares available for trading in some IPOs may make it more difficult for the Fund to buy or sell significant amounts of shares without an unfavorable impact on prevailing prices. Holders of IPO shares can be affected by substantial dilution in the value of their shares, by sales of additional shares and by concentration of control in existing management and principal shareholders.
The Fund's investment in IPO shares may include the securities of unseasoned companies (companies with less than three years of continuous operations), which presents risks considerably greater than common stocks of more established companies. These companies may have limited operating histories and their prospects for profitability may be uncertain. These companies may be involved in new and evolving businesses and may be vulnerable to competition and changes in technology, markets and economic conditions. They may be more dependent on key managers and third parties and may have limited product lines.
DEBT SECURITIES
Corporations and governments use debt securities to borrow money from investors. Most debt securities promise a variable or fixed rate of return and repayment of the amount borrowed at maturity. Some debt securities, such as zero-coupon bonds, do not pay current interest and are purchased at a discount from their face value.
TYPES OF DEBT SECURITIES:
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES - The Fund may invest in U.S. government securities. Securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities include U.S. Treasury securities, which are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury and which differ only in their interest rates, maturities, and times of issuance. U.S. Treasury bills have initial maturities of one-year or less; U.S. Treasury notes have initial maturities of one to ten years; and U.S. Treasury bonds generally have initial maturities of greater than ten years. Certain U.S. government securities are issued or guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government including, but not limited to, obligations of U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities such as Fannie Mae, the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae"), the Small Business Administration, the Federal Farm Credit Administration, the Federal Home Loan Banks, Banks for Cooperatives (including the Central Bank for Cooperatives), the Federal Land Banks, the Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Federal Financing Bank, the Student Loan Marketing Association, the National Credit Union Administration and the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac).
Some obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies and instrumentalities, including, for example, Ginnie Mae pass-through certificates, are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury. Other obligations issued by or guaranteed by federal agencies, such as those securities issued by Fannie Mae, are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to purchase certain obligations of the federal agency, while other obligations issued by or guaranteed by federal agencies, such as those of the Federal Home Loan Banks, are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, while the U.S. government provides financial support to such U.S. government-sponsored federal agencies, no assurance can be given that the U.S. government will always do so, since the U.S. government is not so obligated by law. U.S. Treasury notes and bonds typically pay coupon interest semi-annually and repay the principal at maturity.
On September 7, 2008, the U.S. Treasury announced a federal takeover of Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac, placing the two federal instrumentalities in conservatorship. Under the takeover, the U.S. Treasury agreed to acquire $1 billion of senior preferred stock of each instrumentality and obtained warrants for the purchase of common stock of each instrumentality (the "Senior Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement" or "Agreement"). Under the Agreement, the U.S. Treasury pledged to provide up to $200 billion per instrumentality as needed, including the contribution of cash capital to the instrumentalities in the event their liabilities exceed their assets. This was intended to ensure that the instrumentalities maintain a positive net worth and meet their financial obligations, preventing mandatory triggering of receivership. On December 24, 2009, the U.S. Treasury announced that it was amending the Agreement to allow the $200 billion cap on the U.S. Treasury's funding commitment to increase as necessary to accommodate any cumulative reduction in net worth over the next three years. As a result of this Agreement, the investments of holders, including the Fund, of mortgage-backed securities and other obligations issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are protected.
CORPORATE BONDS -- Corporations issue bonds and notes to raise money for working capital or for capital expenditures such as plant construction, equipment purchases and expansion. In return for the money loaned to the corporation by investors, the corporation promises to pay investors interest, and repay the principal amount of the bond or note.
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES -- Mortgage-backed securities are interests in pools of mortgage loans that various governmental, government-related and private organizations assemble as securities for sale to investors. Unlike most debt securities, which pay interest periodically and repay principal at maturity or on specified call dates, mortgage-backed securities make monthly payments that consist of both interest and principal payments. In effect, these payments are a "pass-through" of the monthly payments made by the individual borrowers on their mortgage loans, net of any fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of such securities. Since homeowners usually have
the option of paying either part or all of the loan balance before maturity, the effective maturity of a mortgage-backed security is often shorter than is stated.
Governmental entities, private insurers and mortgage poolers may insure or guarantee the timely payment of interest and principal of these pools through various forms of insurance or guarantees, including individual loan, title, pool and hazard insurance and letters of credit. The Adviser will consider such insurance and guarantees and the creditworthiness of the issuers thereof in determining whether a mortgage-related security meets its investment quality standards. It is possible that the private insurers or guarantors will not meet their obligations under the insurance policies or guarantee arrangements.
Although the market for such securities is becoming increasingly liquid, securities issued by certain private organizations may not be readily marketable.
GOVERNMENT NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION ("GNMA") -- GNMA is the principal governmental guarantor of mortgage-related securities. GNMA is a wholly owned corporation of the U.S. government within the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Securities issued by GNMA are treasury securities, which means the full faith and credit of the U.S. government backs them. GNMA guarantees the timely payment of principal and interest on securities issued by institutions approved by GNMA and backed by pools of FHA-insured or VA-guaranteed mortgages. GNMA does not guarantee the market value or yield of mortgage-backed securities or the value of the Fund's shares. To buy GNMA securities, the Fund may have to pay a premium over the maturity value of the underlying mortgages, which the Fund may lose if prepayment occurs.
FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION ("FNMA") -- FNMA is a
government-sponsored corporation owned entirely by private stockholders. FNMA
is regulated by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. FNMA purchases
conventional mortgages from a list of approved sellers and service providers,
including state and federally-chartered savings and loan associations, mutual
savings banks, commercial banks and credit unions and mortgage bankers.
Securities issued by FNMA are agency securities, which means FNMA, but not the
U.S. government, guarantees their timely payment of principal and interest.
FREDDIE MAC -- Freddie Mac is stockholder-owned corporation established by the U.S. Congress to create a continuous flow of funds to mortgage lenders. Freddie Mac supplies lenders with the money to make mortgages and packages the mortgages into marketable securities. The system is designed to create a stable mortgage credit system and reduce the rates paid by homebuyers. Freddie Mac, not the U.S. government, guarantees timely payment of principal and interest.
COMMERCIAL BANKS, SAVINGS AND LOAN INSTITUTIONS, PRIVATE MORTGAGE INSURANCE COMPANIES, MORTGAGE BANKERS AND OTHER SECONDARY MARKET ISSUERS -- Commercial banks, savings and loan institutions, private mortgage insurance companies, mortgage bankers and other secondary market issuers also create pass-through pools of conventional mortgage loans. In addition to guaranteeing the mortgage-related security, such issuers may service and/or have originated the underlying mortgage loans. Pools created by these issuers generally offer a higher rate of interest than pools created by GNMA, FNMA and Freddie Mac because they are not guaranteed by a government agency.
RISKS OF MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES -- Yield characteristics of mortgage-backed securities differ from those of traditional debt securities in a variety of ways. The most significant differences of mortgage-backed securities are:
o payments of interest and principal are more frequent (usually monthly); and
o falling interest rates generally cause individual borrowers to pay off their mortgage earlier than expected, which results in prepayments of principal on the securities, thus forcing the Fund to reinvest the money at a lower interest rate.
In addition to risks associated with changes in interest rates described in "Factors Affecting the Value of Debt Securities," a variety of economic, geographic, social and other factors, such as the sale of the underlying property, refinancing or foreclosure, can cause investors to repay the loans underlying a mortgage-backed security sooner than expected. If the prepayment rates increase, the Fund may have to reinvest its principal at a rate of interest that is lower than the rate on existing mortgage-backed securities.
OTHER ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES -- These securities are interests in pools of a broad range of assets other than mortgages, such as automobile loans, computer leases and credit card receivables. Like mortgage-backed securities, these securities are pass-through. In general, the collateral supporting these securities is of shorter maturity than mortgage loans and is less likely to experience substantial prepayments with interest rate fluctuations, but may still be subject to prepayment risk.
Asset-backed securities present certain risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities. Primarily, these securities may not have the benefit of any security interest in the related assets, which raises the possibility that recoveries on repossessed collateral may not be available to support payments on these securities. For example, credit card receivables are generally unsecured and the debtors are entitled to the protection of a number of state and federal consumer credit laws, many of which allow debtors to reduce their balances by offsetting certain amounts owed on the credit cards. Most issuers of asset-backed securities backed by automobile receivables permit the servicers of such receivables to retain possession of the underlying obligations. If the servicer were to sell these obligations to another party, there is a risk that the purchaser would acquire an interest superior to that of the holders of the related asset-backed securities. Due to the quantity of vehicles involved and requirements under state laws, asset-backed securities backed by automobile receivables may not have a proper security interest in all of the obligations backing such receivables.
To lessen the effect of failures by obligors on underlying assets to make payments, the entity administering the pool of assets may agree to ensure the receipt of payments on the underlying pool occurs in a timely fashion ("liquidity protection"). In addition, asset-backed securities may obtain insurance, such as guarantees, policies or letters of credit obtained by the issuer or sponsor from third parties, for some or all of the assets in the pool ("credit support"). Delinquency or loss more than that anticipated or failure of the credit support could adversely affect the return on an investment in such a security.
The Fund may also invest in residual interests in asset-backed securities, which is the excess cash flow remaining after making required payments on the securities and paying related administrative expenses. The amount of residual cash flow resulting from a particular issue of asset-backed securities depends in part on the characteristics of the underlying assets, the coupon rates on the securities, prevailing interest rates, the amount of administrative expenses and the actual prepayment experience on the underlying assets.
COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS ("CMOS") -- CMOs are hybrids between mortgage-backed bonds and mortgage pass-through securities. Similar to a bond, CMOs usually pay interest and prepay principal monthly. While whole mortgage loans may collateralize CMOs, mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by GNMA, Freddie Mac, or FNMA and their income streams more typically collateralize them.
A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and invests in certain mortgages primarily secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments.
CMOs are structured into multiple classes, each bearing a different stated maturity. Each class of CMO or REMIC certificate, often referred to as a "tranche," is issued at a specific interest rate and must be fully retired by its final distribution date. Generally, all classes of CMOs or REMIC certificates pay or accrue interest monthly. Investing in the lowest tranche of CMO or REMIC certificates involves risks similar to those associated with investing in equity securities.
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS -- To earn a return on uninvested assets, meet anticipated redemptions, or for temporary defensive purposes, the Fund may invest a portion of its assets in the short-term securities listed below, U.S. government securities and investment-grade corporate debt securities. Unless otherwise specified, a short-term debt security has a maturity of one year or less.
BANK OBLIGATIONS -- The Fund will only invest in a security issued by a commercial bank if the bank:
o has total assets of at least $1 billion, or the equivalent in other currencies (based on the most recent publicly available information about the bank);
o is a U.S. bank and a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation; and
o is a foreign branch of a U.S. bank and the Adviser believes the security is of an investment quality comparable with other debt securities that the Fund may purchase.
TIME DEPOSITS -- Time deposits are non-negotiable deposits, such as savings accounts or certificates of deposit, held by a financial institution for a fixed term with the understanding that the depositor can withdraw its money only by giving notice to the institution. However, there may be early withdrawal penalties depending upon market conditions and the remaining maturity of the obligation. The Fund may only purchase time deposits maturing from two business days through seven calendar days.
CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT -- Certificates of deposit are negotiable certificates issued against funds deposited in a commercial bank or savings and loan association for a definite period of time and earning a specified return.
BANKERS' ACCEPTANCE -- A bankers' acceptance is a time draft drawn on a commercial bank by a borrower, usually in connection with an international commercial transaction (to finance the import, export, transfer or storage of goods).
COMMERCIAL PAPER -- Commercial paper is a short-term obligation with a maturity ranging from one to 270 days issued by banks, corporations and other borrowers. Such investments are unsecured and usually discounted. The Fund may invest in commercial paper rated A-1 or A-2 by S&P or Prime-1 or Prime-2 by Moody's or, if not rated, issued by a corporation having an outstanding unsecured debt issue rated A or better by Moody's or by S&P. See "Appendix A - Ratings" for a description of commercial paper ratings.
YANKEE BONDS -- Yankee bonds are dollar-denominated bonds issued inside the United States by foreign entities. Investments in these securities involve certain risks that are not typically associated with investing in domestic securities. See "Foreign Securities."
ZERO COUPON BONDS -- These securities make no periodic payments of interest, but instead are sold at a discount from their face value. When held to maturity, their entire income, which consists of accretion of discount, comes from the difference between the issue price and their value at maturity. The amount of the discount rate varies depending on factors including the time remaining until maturity, prevailing interest rates, the security's liquidity and the issuer's credit quality. The market value of zero coupon securities may exhibit greater price volatility than ordinary debt securities because a stripped security will have a longer duration than an ordinary debt security with the same maturity. The Fund's investments in pay-in-kind, delayed and zero coupon bonds may require it to sell certain of its portfolio securities to generate sufficient cash to satisfy certain income distribution requirements.
These securities may include treasury securities that have had their interest payments ("coupons") separated from the underlying principal ("corpus") by their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment brokerage firm. Once the holder of the security has stripped or separated corpus and coupons, it may sell each component separately. The principal or corpus is then sold at a deep discount because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future
fixed payment on the security and does not receive any rights to periodic interest (cash) payments. Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped with other coupons with like maturity dates and sold bundled in such form. The underlying treasury security is held in book-entry form at the Federal Reserve Bank or, in the case of bearer securities (I.E., unregistered securities which are owned ostensibly by the bearer or holder thereof), in trust on behalf of the owners thereof. Purchasers of stripped obligations acquire, in effect, discount obligations that are economically identical to the zero coupon securities that the Treasury sells itself.
The U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero coupon securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular interest coupon and corpus payments on Treasury securities through the Federal Reserve book-entry record keeping system. Under a Federal Reserve program known as "STRIPS" or "Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities," the Fund may record its beneficial ownership of the coupon or corpus directly in the book-entry record-keeping system.
TERMS TO UNDERSTAND:
MATURITY -- Every debt security has a stated maturity date when the issuer must repay the amount it borrowed (principal) from investors. Some debt securities, however, are callable, meaning the issuer can repay the principal earlier, on or after specified dates (call dates). Debt securities are most likely to be called when interest rates are falling because the issuer can refinance at a lower rate, similar to a homeowner refinancing a mortgage. The effective maturity of a debt security is usually its nearest call date.
A fund that invests in debt securities has no real maturity. Instead, it calculates its weighted average maturity. This number is an average of the stated maturity of each debt security held by the Fund, with the maturity of each security weighted by the percentage of the assets of the Fund it represents.
DURATION -- Duration is a calculation that seeks to measure the price sensitivity of a debt security, or a fund that invests in debt securities, to changes in interest rates. It measures sensitivity more accurately than maturity because it takes into account the time value of cash flows generated over the life of a debt security. Future interest payments and principal payments are discounted to reflect their present value and then are multiplied by the number of years they will be received to produce a value expressed in years -- the duration. Effective duration takes into account call features and sinking Fund prepayments that may shorten the life of a debt security. An effective duration of four years, for example, would suggest that for each 1% reduction in interest rates at all maturity levels, the price of a security is estimated to increase by 4%. An increase in rates by the same magnitude is estimated to reduce the price of the security by 4%. By knowing the yield and the effective duration of a debt security, one can estimate total return based on an expectation of how much interest rates, in general, will change. While serving as a good estimator of prospective returns, effective duration is an imperfect measure.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE VALUE OF DEBT SECURITIES -- The total return of a debt instrument is composed of two elements: the percentage change in the security's price and interest income earned. The yield to maturity of a debt security estimates its total return only if the price of the debt security remains unchanged during the holding period and coupon interest is reinvested at the same yield to maturity. The total return of a debt instrument, therefore, will be determined not only by how much interest is earned, but also by how much the price of the security and interest rates change.
O INTEREST RATES
The price of a debt security generally moves in the opposite direction from interest rates (I.E., if interest rates go up, the value of the bond will go down, and vice versa).
O PREPAYMENT RISK
This risk affects mainly mortgage-backed securities. Unlike other debt securities, falling interest rates can adversely affect the value of mortgage-backed securities, which may cause your share price to fall. Lower rates motivate borrowers to pay off the instruments underlying mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities earlier than expected, resulting in prepayments on the securities. The Fund may then have to reinvest the proceeds from such prepayments at lower interest rates, which can reduce its yield. The unexpected timing of mortgage and asset-backed prepayments caused by the variations in interest rates may also shorten or lengthen the average maturity of the Fund. If left unattended, drifts in the average maturity of the Fund can have the unintended effect of increasing or reducing the effective duration of the Fund, which may adversely affect the expected performance of the Fund.
O EXTENSION RISK
The other side of prepayment risk occurs when interest rates are rising. Rising interest rates can cause the Fund's average maturity to lengthen unexpectedly due to a drop in mortgage prepayments. This would increase the sensitivity of the Fund to rising rates and its potential for price declines. Extending the average life of a mortgage-backed security increases the risk of depreciation due to future increases in market interest rates. For these reasons, mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than other types of U.S. government securities as a means of "locking in" interest rates.
O CREDIT RATING
Coupon interest is offered to investors of debt securities as compensation for assuming risk, although short-term treasury securities, such as three-month treasury bills, are considered "risk free." Corporate securities offer higher yields than treasury securities because their payment of interest and complete repayment of principal is less certain. The credit rating or financial condition of an issuer may affect the value of a debt security. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the greater the risks that the issuer will fail to pay interest and return principal. To compensate investors for taking on increased risk, issuers with lower credit ratings usually offer their investors a higher "risk premium" in the form of higher interest rates than those available from comparable treasury securities.
Changes in investor confidence regarding the certainty of interest and principal payments of a corporate debt security will result in an adjustment to this "risk premium." Since an issuer's outstanding debt carries a fixed coupon, adjustments to the risk premium must occur in the price, which affects the yield to maturity of the bond. If an issuer defaults or becomes unable to honor its financial obligations, the bond may lose some or all of its value.
A security rated within the four highest rating categories by a rating agency is called investment-grade because its issuer is more likely to pay interest and repay principal than an issuer of a lower rated bond. Adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances, however, may weaken the capacity of the issuer to pay interest and repay principal. If a security is not rated or is rated under a different system, the Adviser may determine that it is of investment-grade. The Adviser may retain securities that are downgraded, if it believes that keeping those securities is warranted.
Debt securities rated below investment-grade ("junk bonds") are highly speculative securities that are usually issued by smaller, less credit worthy and/or highly leveraged (indebted) companies. A corporation may issue a junk bond because of a corporate restructuring or other similar event. Compared with investment-grade bonds, junk bonds carry a greater degree of risk and are less likely to make payments of interest and principal. Market developments and the financial and business condition of the corporation issuing these securities influences their price and liquidity more than changes in interest rates, when compared to investment-grade debt securities. Insufficient liquidity in the junk bond market may make it more difficult to dispose of junk bonds and may cause
the Fund to experience sudden and substantial price declines. A lack of reliable, objective data or market quotations may make it more difficult to value junk bonds accurately.
Rating agencies are organizations that assign ratings to securities based primarily on the rating agency's assessment of the issuer's financial strength. The Fund currently uses ratings compiled by Moody's, S&P and Fitch Inc. Credit ratings are only an agency's opinion, not an absolute standard of quality, and they do not reflect an evaluation of market risk.
The section "Appendix A - Ratings" contains further information concerning the ratings of certain rating agencies and their significance.
The Adviser may use ratings produced by ratings agencies as guidelines to determine the rating of a security at the time the Fund buys it. A rating agency may change its credit ratings at any time. The Adviser monitors the rating of the security and will take such action, if any, it believes appropriate when it learns that a rating agency has reduced the security's rating. The Fund is not obligated to dispose of securities whose issuers subsequently are in default or which are downgraded below the above-stated ratings.
FOREIGN SECURITIES
Foreign securities are debt and equity securities that are traded in markets outside of the United States. The markets in which these securities are located can be developed or emerging. Consistent with its respective investment strategies, the Fund can invest in foreign securities in a number of ways:
o It can invest directly in foreign securities denominated in a foreign currency;
o It can invest in American Depositary Receipts, European Depositary Receipts and other similar global instruments; and
o It can invest in investment funds.
TYPES OF FOREIGN SECURITIES:
AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ("ADRS") - ADRs as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. A custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home country holds the underlying shares in trust. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. ADRs are subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. European Depositary Receipts are similar to ADRs, except that they are typically issued by European banks or trust companies.
ADRs can be sponsored or unsponsored. While these types are similar, there are differences regarding a holder's rights and obligations and the practices of market participants. A depository may establish an unsponsored facility without participation by (or acquiescence of) the underlying issuer; typically, however, the depository requests a letter of non-objection from the underlying issuer prior to establishing the facility. Holders of unsponsored depositary receipts generally bear all the costs of the facility. The depository usually charges fees upon the deposit and withdrawal of the underlying securities, the conversion of dividends into U.S. dollars or other currency, the disposition of non-cash distributions, and the performance of other services. Sponsored depositary receipt facilities are created in generally the same manner as unsponsored facilities, except that sponsored depositary receipts are established jointly by a depository and the underlying issuer through a deposit agreement. The deposit agreement sets out the rights and responsibilities of the underlying issuer, the depository, and the depositary
receipt holders. With sponsored facilities, the underlying issuer typically bears some of the costs of the depositary receipts (such as dividend payment fees of the depository), although most sponsored depositary receipts holders may bear costs such as deposit and withdrawal fees. Depositories of most sponsored depositary receipts agree to distribute notices of shareholder meetings, voting instructions, and other shareholder communications and information to the depositary receipt holders at the underlying issuer's request. The depositary of an unsponsored facility frequently is under no obligation to distribute shareholder communications received from the issuer of the deposited security or to pass through, to the holders of the receipts, voting rights with respect to the deposited securities.
EMERGING MARKETS - An "emerging market country" is generally a country that the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (World Bank) and the International Finance Corporation would consider to be an emerging or developing country. Typically, emerging markets are in countries that are in the process of industrialization, with lower gross national products (GNP) than more developed countries. There are currently over 130 countries that the international financial community generally considers to be emerging or developing countries, approximately 40 of which currently have stock markets. These countries generally include every nation in the world except the United States, Canada, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.
INVESTMENT FUNDS -- Some emerging countries currently prohibit direct foreign investment in the securities of their companies. Certain emerging countries, however, permit indirect foreign investment in the securities of companies listed and traded on their stock exchanges through investment funds that they have specifically authorized. Investments in these investment funds are subject to the provisions of the 1940 Act. If the Fund invests in such investment funds, shareholders will bear not only their proportionate share of the expenses (including operating expenses and the fees of the Adviser), but also will indirectly bear similar expenses of the underlying investment funds. In addition, these investment funds may trade at a premium over their net asset value.
RISKS OF FOREIGN SECURITIES:
Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.
POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS -- Local political, economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments may affect the value of foreign investments. Listed below are some of the more important political and economic factors that could negatively affect an investment in foreign securities:
o The economies of foreign countries may differ from the economy of the United States in such areas as growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency, budget deficits and national debt;
o Foreign governments sometimes participate to a significant degree, through ownership interests or regulation, in their respective economies. Actions by these governments could significantly influence the market prices of securities and payment of dividends;
o The economies of many foreign countries are dependent on international trade and their trading partners and they could be severely affected if their trading partners were to enact protective trade barriers and economic conditions;
o The internal policies of a particular foreign country may be less stable than in the United States. Other countries face significant external political risks, such as possible claims of sovereignty by other countries or tense and sometimes hostile border clashes; and
o A foreign government may act adversely to the interests of U.S. investors, including expropriation or nationalization of assets, confiscatory taxation and other restrictions on U.S. investment. A country may restrict or control foreign investments in its securities markets. These restrictions could limit the Fund's
ability to invest in a particular country or make it very expensive for the Fund to invest in that country. Some countries require prior governmental approval, limit the types or amount of securities or companies in which a foreigner can invest. Other countries may restrict the ability of foreign investors to repatriate their investment income and capital gains.
INFORMATION AND SUPERVISION -- There is generally less publicly available information about foreign companies than companies based in the United States. For example, there are often no reports and ratings published about foreign companies comparable to the ones written about U.S. companies. Foreign companies are typically not subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies. The lack of comparable information makes investment decisions concerning foreign companies more difficult and less reliable than domestic companies.
STOCK EXCHANGE AND MARKET RISK - The Adviser anticipates that in most cases an exchange or over-the-counter ("OTC") market located outside of the United States will be the best available market for foreign securities. Foreign stock markets, while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as developed as the markets in the United States. Foreign stock markets tend to differ from those in the United States in a number of ways.
Foreign stock markets:
o are generally more volatile than, and not as developed or efficient as, those in the United States;
o have substantially less volume;
o trade securities that tend to be less liquid and experience rapid and erratic price movements;
o have generally higher commissions and are subject to set minimum rates, as opposed to negotiated rates;
o employ trading, settlement and custodial practices less developed than those in U.S. markets; and
o may have different settlement practices, which may cause delays and increase the potential for failed settlements.
Foreign markets may offer less protection to shareholders than U.S. markets because:
o foreign accounting, auditing, and financial reporting requirements may render a foreign corporate balance sheet more difficult to understand and interpret than one subject to U.S. law and standards;
o adequate public information on foreign issuers may not be available, and it may be difficult to secure dividends and information regarding corporate actions on a timely basis;
o in general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States;
o OTC markets tend to be less regulated than stock exchange markets and, in certain countries, may be totally unregulated;
o economic or political concerns may influence regulatory enforcement and may make it difficult for shareholders to enforce their legal rights; and
o restrictions on transferring securities within the United States or to U.S. persons may make a particular security less liquid than foreign securities of the same class that are not subject to such restrictions.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK -- While the Fund denominates its net asset value in U.S. dollars, the securities of foreign companies are frequently denominated in foreign currencies. Thus, a change in the value of a foreign currency against the U.S. dollar will result in a corresponding change in value of securities denominated in that currency. Some of the factors that may impair the investments denominated in a foreign currency are:
o It may be expensive to convert foreign currencies into U.S. dollars and vice versa;
o Complex political and economic factors may significantly affect the values of various currencies, including U.S. dollars, and their exchange rates;
o Government intervention may increase risks involved in purchasing or selling foreign currency options, forward contracts and futures contracts, since exchange rates may not be free to fluctuate in response to other market forces;
o There may be no systematic reporting of last sale information for foreign currencies or regulatory requirement that quotations available through dealers or other market sources be firm or revised on a timely basis;
o Available quotation information is generally representative of very large round-lot transactions in the inter-bank market and thus may not reflect exchange rates for smaller odd-lot transactions (less than $1 million) where rates may be less favorable; and
o The inter-bank market in foreign currencies is a global, around-the-clock market. To the extent that a market is closed while the markets for the underlying currencies remain open, certain markets may not always reflect significant price and rate movements.
TAXES -- Certain foreign governments levy withholding taxes on dividend and interest income. Although in some countries it is possible for the Fund to recover a portion of these taxes, the portion that cannot be recovered will reduce the income the Fund receives from its investments. The Fund does not expect such foreign withholding taxes to have a significant impact on performance.
EMERGING MARKETS -- Investing in emerging markets may magnify the risks of foreign investing. Security prices in emerging markets can be significantly more volatile than those in more developed markets, reflecting the greater uncertainties of investing in less established markets and economies. In particular, countries with emerging markets may:
o Have relatively unstable governments;
o Present greater risks of nationalization of businesses, restrictions on foreign ownership and prohibitions on the repatriation of assets;
o Offer less protection of property rights than more developed countries; and
o Have economies that are based on only a few industries, may be highly vulnerable to changes in local or global trade conditions, and may suffer from extreme and volatile debt burdens or inflation rates.
Local securities markets may trade a small number of securities and may be unable to respond effectively to increases in trading volume, potentially making prompt liquidation of holdings difficult or impossible at times.
DERIVATIVES
Derivatives are financial instruments whose value is based on an underlying asset, such as a stock or a bond, an underlying economic factor, such as an interest rate or a market benchmark, such as an index. Investors can use derivatives to gain exposure to various markets in a cost efficient manner, to reduce transaction costs, alter duration or to remain fully invested. They may also invest in derivatives to protect it from broad fluctuations in market prices, interest rates or foreign currency exchange rates. Investing in derivatives for these purposes is known as "hedging." When hedging is successful, the Fund will have offset any depreciation in the value of its Fund securities by the appreciation in the value of the derivative position. Although techniques other than the sale and purchase of derivatives could be used to control the exposure of the Fund to market fluctuations, the use of derivatives may be a more effective means of hedging this exposure. To the extent that the Fund engages in hedging, there can be no assurance that any hedge will be effective or that there will be a hedge in place at any given time.
Because many derivatives have a leverage or borrowing component, adverse changes in the value or level of the underlying asset, reference rate, or index can result in a loss substantially greater than the amount invested in the derivative itself. Certain derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the initial investment. Accordingly, certain derivative transactions may be considered to constitute borrowing transactions for purposes of the 1940 Act. Such a derivative transaction will not be considered to constitute the issuance of a "senior security" by the Fund, and therefore such transaction will not be subject to the 300% asset coverage requirement otherwise applicable to borrowings by the Fund, if the Fund covers the transaction or segregates sufficient liquid assets in accordance with the requirements, and subject to certain risks.
TYPES OF DERIVATIVES:
FUTURES - A futures contract is an agreement between two parties whereby one party sells and the other party agrees to buy a specified amount of a financial instrument at an agreed upon price and time. The financial instrument underlying the contract may be a stock, stock index, bond, bond index, interest rate, foreign exchange rate or other similar instrument. Agreeing to buy the underlying financial information is called buying a futures contract or taking a long position in the contract. Likewise, agreeing to sell the underlying financial instrument is called selling a futures contract or taking a short position in the contract.
Futures contracts are traded in the United States on commodity exchanges or boards of trade -- known as "contract markets" -- approved for such trading and regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"). These contract markets standardize the terms, including the maturity date and underlying financial instrument, of all futures contracts.
Unlike other securities, the parties to a futures contract do not have to pay for or deliver the underlying financial instrument until some future date (the delivery date). Contract markets require both the purchaser and seller to deposit "initial margin" with a futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant or custodian bank, when they enter into the contract. Initial margin deposits are typically equal to a percentage of the contract's value. After they open a futures contract, the parties to the transaction must compare the purchase price of the contract to its daily market value. If the value of the futures contract changes in such a way that a party's position declines, that party must make additional "variation margin" payments so that the margin payment is adequate. On the other hand, the value of the contract may change in such a way that there is excess margin on deposit, possibly entitling the party that has a gain to receive all or a portion of this amount. This process is known as "marking to the market."
Although the actual terms of a futures contract call for the actual delivery of and payment for the underlying security, in many cases the parties may close the contract early by taking an opposite position in an identical contract. If the sale price upon closing out the contract is less than the original purchase price, the person closing out the contract will realize a loss. If the sale price upon closing out the contract is more than the original purchase price, the person closing out the contract will realize a gain. If the purchase price upon closing out the contract is more than the original sale price, the person closing out the contract will realize a loss. If the purchase price upon closing out the contract is less than the original sale price, the person closing out the contract will realize a gain.
The Fund may incur commission expenses when it opens or closes a futures position.
OPTIONS - An option is a contract between two parties for the purchase and sale of a financial instrument for a specified price (known as the "strike price" or "exercise price") at any time during the option period. Unlike a futures contract, an option grants a right (not an obligation) to buy or sell a financial instrument. Generally, a seller of an option can grant a buyer two kinds of rights: a "call" (the right to buy the security) or a "put" (the right to sell the security). Options have various types of underlying instruments, including specific securities, indices of securities prices, foreign currencies, interest rates and futures contracts. Options may be traded on an
exchange (exchange-traded-options) or may be customized agreements between the parties (over-the-counter or "OTC options"). Like futures, a financial intermediary, known as a clearing corporation, financially backs exchange-traded options. However, OTC options have no such intermediary and are subject to the risk that the counterparty will not fulfill its obligations under the contract.
O PURCHASING PUT AND CALL OPTIONS
When the Fund purchases a put option, it buys the right to sell the instrument underlying the option at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the Fund pays the current market price for the option (known as the "option premium"). The Fund may purchase put options to offset or hedge against a decline in the market value of its securities ("protective puts") or to benefit from a decline in the price of securities that it does not own. The 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. However, if the price of the underlying instrument does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer would lose the premium and related transaction costs.
Call options are similar to put options, except that the Fund obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. The Fund would normally purchase call options in anticipation of an increase in the market value of securities it owns or wants to buy. The Fund would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying instrument exceeded the exercise price plus the premium paid and related transaction costs. Otherwise, the Fund would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the call option.
The purchaser of an option may terminate its position by:
o Allowing it to expire and losing its entire premium;
o Exercising the option and either selling (in the case of a put option) or buying (in the case of a call option) the underlying instrument at the strike price; or
o Closing it out in the secondary market at its current price.
o SELLING (WRITING) PUT AND CALL OPTIONS
When the Fund writes a call option it assumes an obligation 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. Similarly, when the Fund writes a put option it assumes an obligation to purchase specified securities from the option holder at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date. The Fund may terminate its position in an exchange-traded put option before exercise by buying an option identical to the one it has written. Similarly, it may cancel an over-the-counter option by entering into an offsetting transaction with the counterparty to the option.
The Fund could try to hedge against an increase in the value of securities it would like to acquire by writing a put option on those securities. If security prices rise, the Fund would expect the put option to expire and the premium it received to offset the increase in the security's value. If security prices remain the same over time, the Fund would hope to profit by closing out the put option at a lower price. If security prices fall, the Fund may lose an amount of money equal to the difference between the value of the security and the premium it received. Writing covered put options may deprive the Fund of the opportunity to profit from a decrease in the market price of the securities it would like to acquire.
The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that call writers expect to profit if prices remain the same or fall. The Fund could try to hedge against a decline in the value of securities it already owns by writing a call option. If the price of that security falls as expected, the Fund would
expect the option to expire and the premium it received to offset the decline of the security's value. However, the Fund must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument in return for the strike price, which may deprive it of the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market price of the securities it holds.
The Fund is permitted only to write covered options. At the time of selling the call option, the Fund may cover the option by owning, among other things:
o The underlying security (or securities convertible into the underlying security without additional consideration), index, interest rate, foreign currency or futures contract;
o A call option on the same security or index with the same or lesser exercise price;
o A call option on the same security or index with a greater exercise price and segregating cash or liquid securities in an amount equal to the difference between the exercise prices;
o Cash or liquid securities equal to at least the market value of the optioned securities, interest rate, foreign currency or futures contract; or
o In the case of an index, the portfolio of securities that corresponds to the index.
At the time of selling a put option, the Fund may cover the put option by, among other things:
o Entering into a short position in the underlying security;
o Purchasing a put option on the same security, index, interest rate, foreign currency or futures contract with the same or greater exercise price;
o Purchasing a put option on the same security, index, interest rate, foreign currency or futures contract with a lesser exercise price and segregating cash or liquid securities in an amount equal to the difference between the exercise prices; or
o Maintaining the entire exercise price in liquid securities.
O OPTIONS ON SECURITIES INDICES
Options on securities indices are similar to options on securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash settlement 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.
O OPTIONS ON FUTURES
An option on a futures contract provides the holder with the right to buy a futures contract (in the case of a call option) or sell a futures contract (in the case of a put option) at a fixed time and price. Upon exercise of the option by the holder, the contract market clearing house establishes a corresponding short position for the writer of the option (in the case of a call option) or a corresponding long position (in the case of a put option). If the option is exercised, the parties will be subject to the futures contracts. In addition, the writer of an option on a futures contract is subject to initial and variation margin requirements on the option position. Options on futures contracts are traded on the same contract market as the underlying futures contract.
The buyer or seller of an option on a futures contract may terminate the option early by purchasing or selling an option of the same series (I.E., the same exercise price and expiration date) as the option previously purchased or sold. The difference between the premiums paid and received represents the trader's profit or loss on the transaction.
The Fund may purchase put and call options on futures contracts instead of selling or buying futures contracts. The Fund may buy a put option on a futures contract for the same reasons it would sell a futures contract. It also may purchase such put options in order to hedge a long position in the underlying futures contract. The Fund may
buy call options on futures contracts for the same purpose as the actual purchase of the futures contracts, such as in anticipation of favorable market conditions.
The Fund may write a call option on a futures contract to hedge against a decline in the prices of the instrument underlying the futures contracts. If the price of the futures contract at expiration were below the exercise price, the Fund would retain the option premium, which would offset, in part, any decline in the value of its portfolio securities.
The writing of a put option on a futures contract is similar to the purchase of the futures contracts, except that, if the market price declines, the Fund would pay more than the market price for the underlying instrument. The premium received on the sale of the put option, less any transaction costs, would reduce the net cost to the Fund.
O COMBINED POSITIONS
The Fund may purchase and write options in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall position. For example, the Fund could construct a combined position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures contract by purchasing a put option and writing a call option on the same underlying instrument. Alternatively, the Fund could write a call option at one strike price and buy a call option at a lower price to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
O FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS
A forward foreign currency contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific amount of currency at a future date or date range at a specific price. In the case of a cancelable forward contract, the holder has the unilateral right to cancel the contract at maturity by paying a specified fee. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts differ from foreign currency futures contracts in certain respects. Unlike futures contracts, forward contracts:
o Do not have standard maturity dates or amounts (I.E., the parties to the contract may fix the maturity date and the amount).
o Are traded in the inter-bank markets conducted directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers, as opposed to futures contracts which are traded only on exchanges regulated by the CFTC.
o Do not require an initial margin deposit.
o May be closed by entering into a closing transaction with the currency trader who is a party to the original forward contract, as opposed to a commodities exchange.
FOREIGN CURRENCY HEDGING STRATEGIES - A "settlement hedge" or "transaction hedge" is designed to protect the Fund against an adverse change in foreign currency values between the date a security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received. Entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in an underlying security transaction for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars "locks in" the U.S. dollar price of the security. The Fund may also use forward contracts to purchase or sell a foreign currency when it anticipates purchasing or selling securities denominated in foreign currency, even if it has not yet selected the specific investments.
The Fund may use forward contracts to hedge against a decline in the value of existing investments denominated in foreign currency. Such a hedge, sometimes referred to as a "position hedge," would tend to offset both positive and negative currency fluctuations, but would not offset changes in security values caused by other factors. The Fund could also hedge the position by selling another currency expected to perform similarly to the currency in
which the Fund's investment is denominated. This type of hedge, sometimes referred to as a "proxy hedge," could offer advantages in terms of cost, yield, or efficiency, but generally would not hedge currency exposure as effectively as a direct hedge into U.S. dollars. Proxy hedges may result in losses if the currency used to hedge does not perform similarly to the currency in which the hedged securities are denominated.
Transaction and position hedging do not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the securities that the Fund owns or intends to purchase or sell. They simply establish a rate of exchange that one can achieve at some future point in time. Additionally, these techniques tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in the value of the hedged currency and to limit any potential gain that might result from the increase in value of such currency.
The Fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment exposure from one currency into another. Such transactions may call for the delivery of one foreign currency in exchange for another foreign currency, including currencies in which its securities are not then denominated. This may include shifting exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy, sometimes known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that is purchased. Cross-hedges may protect against losses resulting from a decline in the hedged currency, but will cause the Fund to assume the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases. Cross hedging transactions also involve the risk of imperfect correlation between changes in the values of the currencies involved.
It is difficult to forecast with precision the market value of portfolio securities at the expiration or maturity of a forward or futures contract. Accordingly, the Fund may have to purchase additional foreign currency on the spot market if the market value of a security it is hedging is less than the amount of foreign currency it is obligated to deliver. Conversely, the Fund may have to sell on the spot market some of the foreign currency it received upon the sale of a security if the market value of such security exceeds the amount of foreign currency it is obligated to deliver.
To the extent that the Fund engages in foreign currency hedging, there can be no assurance that any hedge will be effective or that there will be a hedge in place at any given time.
SWAPS, CAPS, COLLARS AND FLOORS
SWAP AGREEMENTS - A swap is a financial instrument that typically involves the exchange of cash flows between two parties on specified dates (settlement dates), where the cash flows are based on agreed-upon prices, rates, indices, etc. The nominal amount on which the cash flows are calculated is called the notional amount. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors, such as interest rates, foreign currency rates, mortgage securities, corporate borrowing rates, security prices or inflation rates.
Swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of the investments of the Fund and its share price. The performance of swap agreements may be affected by a change in the specific interest rate, currency, or other factors that determine the amounts of payments due to and from the Fund. If a swap agreement calls for payments by the Fund, the Fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. In addition, if the counterparty's creditworthiness declined, the value of a swap agreement would be likely to decline, potentially resulting in losses.
Generally, swap agreements have a fixed maturity date that will be agreed upon by the parties. The agreement can be terminated before the maturity date under certain circumstances, such as default by one of the parties or insolvency, among others, and can be transferred by a party only with the prior written consent of the other party. The Fund may be able to eliminate its exposure under a swap agreement either by assignment or by other
disposition, or by entering into an offsetting swap agreement with the same party or a similarly creditworthy party. If the counterparty is unable to meet its obligations under the contract, declares bankruptcy, defaults or becomes insolvent, the Fund may not be able to recover the money it expected to receive under the contract.
A swap agreement can be a form of leverage, which can magnify the Fund's gains or losses. In order to reduce the risk associated with leveraging, the Fund may cover its current obligations under swap agreements according to guidelines established by the SEC. If the Fund enters into a swap agreement on a net basis, it will segregate assets with a daily value at least equal to the excess, if any, of the Fund's accrued obligations under the swap agreement over the accrued amount the Fund is entitled to receive under the agreement. If the Fund enters into a swap agreement on other than a net basis, it will segregate assets with a value equal to the full amount of the Fund's accrued obligations under the agreement.
O TOTAL RETURN SWAPS
Total return swaps are contracts in which one party agrees to make payments of the total return from the underlying asset during the specified period, in return for payments equal to a fixed or floating rate of interest or the total return from another underlying asset. The total return includes appreciation or depreciation on the underlying asset, plus any interest or dividend payments. Payments under the swap are based upon an agreed upon principal amount but since the principal amount is not exchanged, it represents neither an asset nor a liability to either counterparty, and is referred to as notional. Total return swaps are marked to market daily using different sources, including quotations from counterparties, pricing services, brokers or market makers. The unrealized appreciation (depreciation) related to the change in the valuation of the notional amount of the swap is combined with the amount due to the Fund at termination or settlement. The primary risks associated with total returns swaps are credit risks (if the counterparty fails to meet its obligations) and market risk (if there is no liquid market for the agreement or unfavorable changes occur to the underlying asset).
O EQUITY SWAPS
In a typical equity swap, one party agrees to pay another party the return on a
stock, stock index or basket of stocks in return for a specified interest rate.
By entering into an equity index swap, for example, the index receiver can
gain exposure to stocks making up the index of securities without actually
purchasing those stocks. Equity index swaps involve not only the risk
associated with investment in the securities represented in the index, but also
the risk that the performance of such securities, including dividends, will not
exceed the return on the interest rate that the Fund will be committed to pay.
O INTEREST RATE SWAPS
Interest rate swaps are financial instruments that involve the exchange of one type of interest rate for another type of interest rate cash flow on specified dates in the future. Some of the different types of interest rate swaps are "fixed-for floating rate swaps," "termed basis swaps" and "index amortizing swaps." Fixed-for floating rate swaps involve the exchange of fixed interest rate cash flows for floating rate cash flows. Termed basis swaps entail cash flows to both parties based on floating interest rates, where the interest rate indices are different. Index amortizing swaps are typically fixed-for floating swaps where the notional amount changes if certain conditions are met.
Like a traditional investment in a debt security, the Fund could lose money by investing in an interest rate swap if interest rates change adversely. For example, if the Fund enters into a swap where it agrees to exchange a floating rate of interest for a fixed rate of interest, the Fund may have to pay more money than it receives. Similarly, if the Fund enters into a swap where it agrees to exchange a fixed rate of interest for a floating rate of interest, the Fund may receive less money than it has agreed to pay.
O CURRENCY SWAPS
A currency swap is an agreement between two parties in which one party agrees to make interest rate payments in one currency and the other promises to make interest rate payments in another currency. The Fund may enter into a currency swap when it has one currency and desires a different currency. Typically the interest rates that determine the currency swap payments are fixed, although occasionally one or both parties may pay a floating rate of interest. Unlike an interest rate swap, however, the principal amounts are exchanged at the beginning of the contract and returned at the end of the contract. Changes in foreign exchange rates and changes in interest rates, as described above may negatively affect currency swaps.
CAPS, COLLARS AND FLOORS - Caps and floors have an effect similar to buying or writing options. In a typical cap or floor agreement, one party agrees to make payments only under specified circumstances, usually in return for payment of a fee by the other party. For example, the buyer of an interest rate cap obtains the right to receive payments to the extent that a specified interest rate exceeds an agreed-upon level. The seller of an interest rate floor is obligated to make payments to the extent that a specified interest rate falls below an agreed-upon level. An interest rate collar combines elements of buying a cap and selling a floor.
RISKS OF DERIVATIVES:
While transactions in derivatives may reduce certain risks, these transactions themselves entail certain other risks. For example, unanticipated changes in interest rates, securities prices or currency exchange rates may result in a poorer overall performance of the Fund than if it had not entered into any derivatives transactions. Derivatives may magnify the Fund's gains or losses, causing it to make or lose substantially more than it invested.
When used for hedging purposes, increases in the value of the securities the Fund holds or intends to acquire should offset any losses incurred with a derivative. Purchasing derivatives for purposes other than hedging could expose the Fund to greater risks.
CORRELATION OF PRICES - The Fund's ability to hedge its securities through derivatives depends on the degree to which price movements in the underlying index or instrument correlate with price movements in the relevant securities. In the case of poor correlation, the price of the securities the Fund is hedging may not move in the same amount, or even in the same direction as the hedging instrument. The Adviser will try to minimize this risk by investing only in those contracts whose behavior it expects to resemble with the portfolio securities it is trying to hedge. However, if the Fund's prediction of interest and currency rates, market value, volatility or other economic factors is incorrect, the Fund may lose money, or may not make as much money as it expected.
Derivative prices can diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the characteristics of the underlying instruments are very similar to the derivative. Listed below are some of the factors that may cause such a divergence:
o current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract;
o a difference between the derivatives and securities markets, including different levels of demand, how the instruments are traded, the imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading of an instrument stops; and
o differences between the derivatives, such as different margin requirements, different liquidity of such markets and the participation of speculators in such markets.
Derivatives based upon a narrower index of securities, such as those of a particular industry group, may present greater risk than derivatives based on a broad market index. Since narrower indices are made up of a smaller
number of securities, they are more susceptible to rapid and extreme price fluctuations because of changes in the value of those securities.
While currency futures and options values are expected to correlate with exchange rates, they may not reflect other factors that affect the value of the investments of the Fund. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a yen-denominated security from a decline in the yen, but will not protect the Fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of the Fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the Fund's investments precisely over time.
LACK OF LIQUIDITY - Before a futures contract or option is exercised or expires, the Fund can terminate it only by entering into a closing purchase or sale transaction. Moreover, the Fund may close out a futures contract only on the exchange the contract was initially traded. If there is no secondary market for the contract, or the market is illiquid, the Fund may not be able to close out its position. In an illiquid market, the Fund may:
o have to sell securities to meet its daily margin requirements at a time when it is disadvantageous to do so;
o have to purchase or sell the instrument underlying the contract;
o not be able to hedge its investments; and
o not be able to realize profits or limit its losses.
Derivatives may become illiquid (I.E., difficult to sell at a desired time and price) under a variety of market conditions. For example:
o an exchange may suspend or limit trading in a particular derivative instrument, an entire category of derivatives or all derivatives, which sometimes occurs because of increased market volatility;
o unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations of an exchange;
o the facilities of the exchange may not be adequate to handle current trading volume;
o equipment failures, government intervention, insolvency of a brokerage firm or clearing house or other occurrences may disrupt normal trading activity; or
o investors may lose interest in a particular derivative or category of derivatives.
MANAGEMENT RISK - If the Adviser incorrectly predicts stock market and interest rate trends, the Fund may lose money by investing in derivatives. For example, if the Fund were to write a call option based on the Adviser's expectation that the price of the underlying security would fall, but the price were to rise instead, the Fund could be required to sell the security upon exercise at a price below the current market price. Similarly, if the Fund were to write a put option based on the Adviser's expectation that the price of the underlying security would rise, but the price were to fall instead, the Fund could be required to purchase the security upon exercise at a price higher than the current market price.
PRICING RISK - At times, market conditions might make it hard to value some investments. For example, if the Fund has valued its securities too high, you may end up paying too much for Fund shares when you buy into the Fund. If the Fund underestimates its price, you may not receive the full market value for your Fund shares when you sell.
MARGIN - Because of the low margin deposits required upon the opening of a derivative position, such transactions involve an extremely high degree of leverage. Consequently, a relatively small price movement in a derivative may result in an immediate and substantial loss (as well as gain) to the Fund and it may lose more than it originally invested in the derivative.
If the price of a futures contract changes adversely, the Fund may have to sell securities at a time when it is disadvantageous to do so to meet its minimum daily margin requirement. The Fund may lose its margin deposits if a broker with whom it has an open futures contract or related option becomes insolvent or declares bankruptcy.
VOLATILITY AND LEVERAGE - The prices of derivatives are volatile (I.E., they may change rapidly, substantially and unpredictably) and are influenced by a variety of factors, including:
o actual and anticipated changes in interest rates;
o fiscal and monetary policies; and
o national and international political events.
Most exchanges limit the amount by which the price of a derivative can change during a single trading day. Daily trading limits establish the maximum amount that the price of a derivative may vary from the settlement price of that derivative at the end of trading on the previous day. Once the price of a derivative reaches this value, the Fund may not trade that derivative at a price beyond that limit. The daily limit governs only price movements during a given day and does not limit potential gains or losses. Derivative prices have occasionally moved to the daily limit for several consecutive trading days, preventing prompt liquidation of the derivative.
EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS ("ETFS")
The Fund may invest in exchange-traded funds. ETFs may be structured as investment companies that are registered under the 1940 Act, typically as open-end funds or unit investment trusts. These ETFs are generally based on specific domestic and foreign market securities indices. An "index-based ETF" seeks to track the performance of an index by holding in its portfolio either the contents of the index or a representative sample of the securities in the index. Alternatively, ETFs may be structured as grantor trusts or other forms of pooled investment vehicles that are not registered or regulated under the 1940 Act. These ETFs typically hold commodities, precious metals, currency or other non-securities investments. ETFs, like mutual funds, have expenses associated with their operation, such as advisory and custody fees. When a Fund invests in an ETF, in addition to directly bearing expenses associated with its own operations, including the brokerage costs associated with the purchase and sale of shares of the ETF, the Fund will bear a pro rata portion of the ETF's expenses. In addition, it may be more costly to own an ETF than to directly own the securities or other investments held by the ETF because of ETF expenses. The risks of owning shares of an ETF generally reflect the risks of owning the underlying securities or other investments held by the ETF, although lack of liquidity in the market for the shares of an ETF could result in the ETF's value being more volatile than the underlying securities or other investments.
INVESTMENT COMPANY SHARES
The Fund may invest in shares of other investment companies, to the extent permitted by applicable law and subject to certain restrictions. These investment companies typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by the Fund. The Fund's purchase of such investment company securities results in the layering of expenses, such that shareholders would indirectly bear a proportionate share of the operating expenses of such investment companies, including advisory fees, in addition to paying the Fund's expenses. Unless an exception is available, Section 12(d)(1)(A) of the 1940 Act prohibits a fund from (i) acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any one investment company, (ii) investing more than 5% of its total assets in any one investment company, and (iii) investing more than 10% of its total assets in all investment companies combined, including its ETF investments.
For hedging or other purposes, the Fund may invest in investment companies that seek to track the composition and/or performance of specific indexes or portions of specific indexes. Certain of these investment companies, known as exchange-traded funds, are traded on a securities exchange. (See "Exchange Traded Funds" above). The market prices of index-based investments will fluctuate in accordance with changes in the underlying
portfolio securities of the investment company and also due to supply and demand of the investment company's shares on the exchange upon which the shares are traded. Index-based investments may not replicate or otherwise match the composition or performance of their specified index due to transaction costs, among other things.
Pursuant to orders issued by the SEC to each of certain iShares, Market Vectors, Vanguard, ProShares, PowerShares, Claymore, Direxion, Wisdom Tree, Rydex, First Trust and SPDR exchange-traded funds (collectively, the "ETFs") and procedures approved by the Board, the Fund may invest in the ETFs in excess of the 3% limit described above, provided that the Fund otherwise complies with the conditions of the SEC order, as it may be amended, and any other applicable investment limitations. Neither the ETFs nor their investment advisers make any representations regarding the advisability of investing in the ETFs.
MONEY MARKET SECURITIES
Money market securities include short-term U.S. government securities; custodial receipts evidencing separately traded interest and principal components of securities issued by the U.S. Treasury; commercial paper rated in the highest short-term rating category by a nationally recognized statistical ratings organization ("NRSRO"), such as Standard & Poor's or Moody's, or determined by the Adviser to be of comparable quality at the time of purchase; short-term bank obligations (certificates of deposit, time deposits and bankers' acceptances) of U.S. commercial banks with assets of at least $1 billion as of the end of their most recent fiscal year; and repurchase agreements involving such securities. Each of these money market securities are described below. For a description of ratings, see "Appendix A -- Ratings" to this SAI.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with financial institutions. A
repurchase agreement is an agreement under which a fund acquires a fixed income
security (generally a security issued by the U.S. government or an agency
thereof, a banker's acceptance, or a certificate of deposit) from a commercial
bank, broker, or dealer, and simultaneously agrees to resell such security to
the seller at an agreed upon price and date (normally, the next business day).
Because the security purchased constitutes collateral for the repurchase
obligation, a repurchase agreement may be considered a loan that is
collateralized by the security purchased. The acquisition of a repurchase
agreement may be deemed to be an acquisition of the underlying securities as
long as the obligation of the seller to repurchase the securities is
collateralized fully. The Fund follows certain procedures designed to minimize
the risks inherent in such agreements. These procedures include effecting
repurchase transactions only with creditworthy financial institutions whose
condition will be continually monitored by the Adviser. The repurchase
agreements entered into by the Fund will provide that the underlying collateral
at all times shall have a value at least equal to 102% of the resale price
stated in the agreement and consist only of securities permissible under
Section 101(47)(A)(i) of the Bankruptcy Code (the Adviser monitors compliance
with this requirement). Under all repurchase agreements entered into by the
Fund, the custodian or its agent must take possession of the underlying
collateral. In the event of a default or bankruptcy by a selling financial
institution, the Fund will seek to liquidate such collateral. However, the
exercising of the Fund's right to liquidate such collateral could involve
certain costs or delays and, to the extent that proceeds from any sale upon a
default of the obligation to repurchase were less than the repurchase price,
the Fund could suffer a loss. It is the current policy of the Fund, not to
invest in repurchase agreements that do not mature within seven days if any
such investment, together with any other illiquid assets held by that Fund,
amounts to more than 15% of the Fund's total assets. The investments of the
Fund in repurchase agreements, at times, may be substantial when, in the view
of the Adviser, liquidity or other considerations so warrant.
SECURITIES LENDING
The Fund may lend portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other financial organizations that meet capital and other credit requirements or other criteria established by the Fund's Board of Trustees. These loans, if and when
made, may not exceed 33 1/3% of the total asset value of the Fund (including the loan collateral). The Fund will not lend portfolio securities to its Adviser or its affiliates unless permissible under the 1940 Act and the rules and promulgations thereunder. Loans of portfolio securities will be fully collateralized by cash, letters of credit or U.S. government securities, and the collateral will be maintained in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities by marking to market daily. Any gain or loss in the market price of the securities loaned that might occur during the term of the loan would be for the account of the Fund.
The Fund may pay a part of the interest earned from the investment of collateral, or other fee, to an unaffiliated third party for acting as the Fund's securities lending agent.
By lending its securities, the Fund may increase its income by receiving payments from the borrower that reflect the amount of any interest or any dividends payable on the loaned securities as well as by either investing cash collateral received from the borrower in short-term instruments or obtaining a fee from the borrower when U.S. government securities or letters of credit are used as collateral. The Fund will adhere to the following conditions whenever its portfolio securities are loaned: (i) the Fund must receive at least 100% cash collateral or equivalent securities of the type discussed in the preceding paragraph from the borrower; (ii) the borrower must increase such collateral whenever the market value of the securities rises above the level of such collateral; (iii) the Fund must be able to terminate the loan on demand; (iv) the Fund must receive reasonable interest on the loan, as well as any dividends, interest or other distributions on the loaned securities and any increase in market value; (v) the Fund may pay only reasonable fees in connection with the loan (which fees may include fees payable to the lending agent, the borrower, the Fund's administrator and the custodian); and (vi) voting rights on the loaned securities may pass to the borrower, provided, however, that if a material event adversely affecting the investment occurs, the Fund must terminate the loan and regain the right to vote the securities. The Board has adopted procedures reasonably designed to ensure that the foregoing criteria will be met. Loan agreements involve certain risks in the event of default or insolvency of the borrower, including possible delays or restrictions upon the Fund's ability to recover the loaned securities or dispose of the collateral for the loan, which could give rise to loss because of adverse market action, expenses and/or delays in connection with the disposition of the underlying securities.
ILLIQUID SECURITIES
Illiquid securities are securities that cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business (within seven days) at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Because of their illiquid nature, illiquid securities must be priced at fair value as determined in good faith pursuant to procedures approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees. Despite such good faith efforts to determine fair value prices, the Fund's illiquid securities are subject to the risk that the security's fair value price may differ from the actual price which the Fund may ultimately realize upon their sale or disposition. Difficulty in selling illiquid securities may result in a loss or may be costly to the Fund. Under the supervision of the Trust's Board of Trustees, the Adviser determines the liquidity of the Fund's investments. In determining the liquidity of the Fund's investments, the Adviser may consider various factors, including (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations, (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security). The Fund will not hold more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities.
RESTRICTED SECURITIES
Restricted securities are securities that may not be sold freely to the public absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") or an exemption from registration. As consistent with the
Fund's investment objective, the Fund may invest in Section 4(2) commercial paper. Section 4(2) commercial paper is issued in reliance on an exemption from registration under Section 4(2) of the Act and is generally sold to institutional investors who purchase for investment. Any resale of such commercial paper must be in an exempt transaction, usually to an institutional investor through the issuer or investment dealers who make a market in such commercial paper. The Trust believes that Section 4(2) commercial paper is liquid to the extent it meets the criteria established by the Board of Trustees of the Trust. The Trust intends to treat such commercial paper as liquid and not subject to the investment limitations applicable to illiquid securities or restricted securities.
SHORT SALES
As is consistent with the Fund's investment objective, the Fund may engage in short sales that are either "uncovered" or "against the box." A short sale is "against the box" if at all times during which the short position is open, the Fund owns at least an equal amount of the securities or securities convertible into, or exchangeable without further consideration for, securities of the same issue as the securities that are sold short. A short sale against the box is a taxable transaction to the Fund with respect to the securities that are sold short.
Uncovered short sales are transactions under which the Fund sells a security it does not own. To complete such a transaction, the Fund must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund then is obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing the security at the market price at the time of the replacement. The price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the security was sold by the Fund. Until the security is replaced, the Fund is required to pay the lender amounts equal to any dividends or interest that accrue during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the Fund also may be required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the security sold. The proceeds of the short sale will be retained by the broker, to the extent necessary to meet margin requirements, until the short position is closed out.
Until the Fund closes its short position or replaces the borrowed security, the Fund will: (a) maintain a segregated account containing cash or liquid securities at such a level that (i) the amount deposited in the account plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will equal the current value of the security sold short; and (ii) the amount deposited in the segregated account plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will not be less than the market value of the security at the time the security was sold short; or (b) otherwise cover the Fund's short position.
INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
FUNDAMENTAL POLICIES
The following investment limitations are fundamental policies of the Fund that cannot be changed without the consent of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding shares. The phrase "majority of the outstanding shares" means the vote of (i) 67% or more of the Fund's shares present at a meeting, if more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding shares, whichever is less.
The Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities of an issuer that would cause the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification requirement for a diversified management company under the 1940 Act, the rules or regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
2. Concentrate investments in a particular industry or group of industries, as concentration is defined under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
3. Borrow money or issue senior securities (as defined under the 1940 Act), except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
4. Make loans, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
5. Purchase or sell commodities or real estate, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
6. Underwrite securities issued by other persons, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL POLICIES
In addition to the Fund's investment objective, the following investment limitations of the Fund are non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trust's Board of Trustees without shareholder approval. These non-fundamental policies are based upon the regulations currently set forth in the 1940 Act.
The Fund may not:
1. (i) Purchase securities of any issuer (except securities of other
investment companies and securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
government, its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements
involving such securities) if, as a result, more than 5% of the total net
assets of the Fund would be invested in the securities of such issuer; or
(ii) acquire more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one
issuer. This restriction applies to 75% of the Fund's total assets.
2. Purchase any securities which would cause 25% or more of the total assets of the Fund to be invested in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry, provided that this limitation does not apply to investments in obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements involving such securities. For purposes of this limitation, (i) utility companies will be classified according to their services, for example, gas distribution, gas transmission, electric and telephone will each be considered a separate industry; and (ii) financial service companies will be classified according to the end users of their services, for example, automobile finance, bank finance and diversified finance will each be considered a separate industry.
3. Borrow money in an amount exceeding 33 1/3% of the value of its total assets, provided that, for purposes of this limitation, investment strategies that either obligate the Fund to purchase securities or require the Fund to segregate assets are not considered to be borrowing. Asset coverage of at least 300% is required for all borrowing, except where the Fund has borrowed money for temporary purposes in an amount not exceeding 5% of its total assets.
4. Make loans if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, except that the Fund may (i) purchase or hold debt instruments in accordance with its investment objective and policies; (ii) enter into repurchase agreements; and (iii) lend its securities.
5. Purchase or sell real estate, real estate limited partnership interests, physical commodities or commodities contracts except that the Fund may purchase (i) marketable securities issued by companies which own or invest in real estate (including real estate investment trusts), commodities or commodities contracts; and (ii) commodities contracts relating to financial instruments, such as financial futures contracts and options on such contracts.
6. Hold illiquid securities in an amount exceeding, in the aggregate, 15% of the Fund's net assets.
Except with respect to Fund policies concerning borrowing and illiquid securities, if a percentage restriction is adhered to at the time of an investment, a later increase or decrease in percentage resulting from changes in values or assets will not constitute a violation of such restriction. With respect to the limitation on illiquid securities, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause the Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of illiquid instruments back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable. With respect to the limitation on borrowing, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause the Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of borrowing back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable.
THE ADVISER
GRT Capital Partners, L.L.C., a Delaware limited liability company formed in 2001, serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 50 Milk Street, 21st Floor, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. The Adviser manages and supervises the investment of the Fund's assets on a discretionary basis. As of September 30, 2010, the Adviser had approximately $XX million in assets under management. The Adviser was founded and is controlled and wholly owned by Gregory B. Fraser, Rudolph K. Kluiber and Timothy A. Krochuk. Biographical information on Gregory B. Fraser, Rudolph K. Kluiber and Timothy A. Krochuk can be found in the Prospectus.
ADVISORY AGREEMENT WITH THE TRUST. The Trust and the Adviser have entered into an investment advisory agreement dated April 30, 2008, as amended (the "Advisory Agreement"). Under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser serves as the investment adviser and makes the investment decisions for the Fund and continuously reviews, supervises and administers the investment program of the Fund, subject to the supervision of, and policies established by, the Trustees of the Trust. After the initial two-year term, the continuance of the Advisory Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Advisory Agreement or "interested persons" of any party thereto, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Advisory Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment, and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or, with respect to the Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, on not less than 30-days' nor more than 60-days' written notice to the Adviser, or by the Adviser on 90 days' written notice to the Trust. The Advisory Agreement provides that the Adviser shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of misfeasance or negligence generally in the performance of its duties hereunder or its negligent disregard of its obligation and duties thereunder. As used in the Advisory Agreement, the terms "majority of the outstanding voting securities," "interested persons" and "assignment" have the same meaning as such terms in the 1940 Act.
ADVISORY FEES PAID TO THE ADVISER. For its services under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.95% of the average daily net assets of the Fund. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its fees and reimburse expenses to the extent necessary in
order to keep total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 1.30% of the Fund's average daily net assets. The Adviser may discontinue all or a portion of its fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual Fund operating expenses and 1.30% to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expense limitation reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period. For the fiscal period from May 1, 2008 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2008, and the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the Fund paid the Adviser the following advisory fees:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONTRACTUAL ADVISORY FEES PAID FEES WAIVED BY ADVISER TOTAL FEES PAID (AFTER WAIVERS) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $3,553 $13,001 $XX $3,553 $13,001 $XX $0(1) $0(1) $XX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) For the fiscal periods ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Adviser reimbursed Fund expenses in the amount of $96,428, $283,690 and $XX, respectively, pursuant to its waiver arrangements with the Fund.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
This section includes information about the Fund's portfolio managers, including information about other accounts they manage, the dollar range of Fund shares they own and how they are compensated.
COMPENSATION. The Adviser compensates the Fund's portfolio managers for their management of the Fund. The portfolio managers of the Fund are each managing members of the Adviser and are the three founding members and owners of the Adviser. Each portfolio manager's compensation is based on his share, as an owner, of the Adviser's net income from all sources, including management fees the Adviser receives from the Fund and from the Adviser's other clients. The three owners also receive an incentive fee based on the performance of the accounts of certain other clients, excluding the Fund, which does not pay any performance based fee.
FUND SHARES OWNED BY PORTFOLIO MANAGERS. The following table shows the dollar amount range of each portfolio manager's "beneficial ownership" of shares of the Fund. Dollar amount ranges disclosed are established by the SEC. "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (the "1934 Act").
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NAME DOLLAR RANGE OF FUND SHARES OWNED(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rudolph K. Kluiber $500,001 - $1,000,000 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gregory B. Fraser $100,001 - $500,000 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Timothy A. Krochuk $500,001 - $1,000,000 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Valuation date July 31, 2010. Includes, among other shares, indirect beneficial ownership of Fund shares owned by GRT Capital Partners, L.L.C., the Adviser, which, in turn, is owned by the three portfolio managers.
OTHER ACCOUNTS. In addition to the Fund, each portfolio manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of certain other accounts, as listed below. Numbers in parentheses indicate the accounts and the total assets in those accounts for which the advisory fee is based on the performance of the account. The information below is provided as of July 31, 2010.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- REGISTERED INVESTMENT OTHER POOLED COMPANIES INVESTMENT VEHICLES OTHER ACCOUNTS ---------------------- --------------------- ------------------------- TOTAL TOTAL NUMBER OF ASSETS NUMBER OF ASSETS NUMBER OF TOTAL ASSETS NAME ACCOUNTS (MILLIONS) ACCOUNTS (MILLIONS) ACCOUNTS (MILLIONS) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rudolph K. Kluiber 0 $0 4(3) $110.5 0 $0 ($100.8) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gregory B. Fraser 0 $0 4(4) $105 0 $0 ($105) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Timothy A. Krochuk 0 $0 3(3) $100.8 0 $0 (100.8) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
CONFLICTS OF INTERESTS. Each portfolio manager's management of "other accounts" may give rise to potential conflicts of interest in connection with his or her management of the Fund's investments, on the one hand, and the investments of the other accounts, on the other. The other accounts may have the same investment objective as the Fund. Therefore, a potential conflict of interest may arise as a result of the identical investment objectives, whereby the portfolio manager could favor one account over another. Another potential conflict could include a portfolio manager's knowledge about the size, timing and possible market impact of Fund trades, whereby a portfolio manager could use this information to the advantage of other accounts and to the disadvantage of the Fund. Additionally, the other accounts may pay compensation to the Adviser and its affiliates which is greater than the compensation paid by the Fund. However, the Adviser has established policies and procedures to ensure that the purchase and sale of securities among all accounts it manages are fairly and equitably allocated.
THE ADMINISTRATOR
GENERAL. SEI Investments Global Funds Services (the "Administrator"), a Delaware statutory trust, has its principal business offices at One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. SEI Investments Management Corporation ("SIMC"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI Investments Company ("SEI Investments"), is the owner of all beneficial interest in the Administrator. SEI Investments and its subsidiaries and affiliates, including the Administrator, are leading providers of fund evaluation services, trust accounting systems, and brokerage and information services to financial institutions, institutional investors, and money managers. The Administrator and its affiliates also serve as administrator or sub-administrator to other mutual funds.
ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT WITH THE TRUST. The Trust and the Administrator have entered into an administration agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12, 2002 (the "Administration Agreement"). Under the Administration Agreement, the Administrator provides the Trust with administrative services, including regulatory reporting and all necessary office space, equipment, personnel and facilities. The Administration Agreement provides that the Administrator shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with the matters to which the Administration Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Administrator in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by it of its duties and obligations thereunder.
Pursuant to a schedule to the Administration Agreement, the Administrator also serves as the shareholder servicing agent for the Fund whereby the Administrator provides certain shareholder services to the Fund.
ADMINISTRATION FEES PAID TO THE ADMINISTRATOR. The Administrator provides the Trust with administrative services, including regulatory reporting and all necessary office space, equipment, personnel and facilities. For
these administrative services, the Administrator is entitled to a fee, which is detailed below in the following schedule:
FEE (AS A PERCENTAGE OF AGGREGATE AVERAGE ANNUAL ASSETS) FUND'S AVERAGE DAILY NET ASSETS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.12% First $250 million -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.10% $250 million - $500 million -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.08% Over $500 million -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
The initial annual minimum fee will be based upon the number of portfolios launched as of the inception date of the Fund. The minimum annual fee assumes that the portfolio includes up to one class and is as follows:
o The minimum annual fee for the Fund shall be $100,000.
In the event that the Fund is comprised of more than one class, the Fund will be subject to an additional annual fee at a rate of $15,000 per class.
For the fiscal period from May 1, 2008 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2008, and the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the Fund paid the following administration fees:
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONTRACTUAL FEES PAID FEES WAIVED BY ADMINISTRATOR TOTAL FEES PAID (AFTER WAIVERS) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $19,909 $84,928 $XX $0 $0 $XX $19,909 $84,928 $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
THE DISTRIBUTOR
GENERAL. SEI Investments Distribution Co. (the "Distributor"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI, and the Trust are parties to a distribution agreement dated May 31, 2000 ("Distribution Agreement"). The principal business address of the Distributor is One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456.
The continuance of the Distribution Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operations of the Distribution Agreement or any related agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Distribution Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act), and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or, with respect to the Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, upon not more than 60 days' written notice by either party. The Distribution Agreement provides that the Distributor shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard of its obligations or duties thereunder.
THE DISTRIBUTION PLAN. The Distribution Plan (the "Plan") provides that Advisor Class Shares of the Fund pay the Distributor an annual fee of up to a maximum amount of 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the shares. Under the Plan, the Distributor may make payments pursuant to written agreements to financial institutions and intermediaries such as banks, savings and loan associations and insurance companies including, without limit, investment counselors, broker-dealers and the Distributor's affiliates and subsidiaries (collectively, "Agents") as compensation for services and reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with distribution assistance. The Plan is characterized as a compensation plan since the distribution fee will be paid to the Distributor without regard to the distribution expenses incurred by the Distributor or the amount of payments made to other financial
institutions and intermediaries. The Trust intends to operate the Plan in accordance with its terms and with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") rules concerning sales charges.
The Trust has adopted the Plan in accordance with the provisions of Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, which regulates circumstances under which an investment company may directly or indirectly bear expenses relating to the distribution of its shares. Continuance of the Plan must be approved annually by a majority of the Trustees of the Trust and by a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the Plan or in any agreements related to the Plan ("Qualified Trustees"). The Plan requires that quarterly written reports of amounts spent under the Plan and the purposes of such expenditures be furnished to and reviewed by the Trustees. The Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount that may be spent thereunder without approval by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund. All material amendments of the Plan will require approval by a majority of the Trustees of the Trust and of the Qualified Trustees. For the fiscal period from May 1, 2008 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2008, and the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the Fund paid the following distribution fees:
2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $935 $3,421 $XX $0 $0 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
The Adviser and/or its affiliates, at their discretion, may make payments from their own resources and not from Fund assets to affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Fund, its service providers or their respective affiliates, as incentives to help market and promote the Fund and/or in recognition of their distribution, marketing, administrative services, and/or processing support.
These additional payments may be made to financial intermediaries that sell Fund shares or provide services to the Fund, the Distributor or shareholders of the Fund through the financial intermediary's retail distribution channel and/or fund supermarkets. Payments may also be made through the financial intermediary's retirement, qualified tuition, fee-based advisory, wrap fee bank trust, or insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. These payments may include, but are not limited to, placing the Fund in a financial intermediary's retail distribution channel or on a preferred or recommended fund list; providing business or shareholder financial planning assistance; educating financial intermediary personnel about the Fund; providing access to sales and management representatives of the financial intermediary; promoting sales of Fund shares; providing marketing and educational support; maintaining share balances and/or for sub-accounting, administrative or shareholder transaction processing services. A financial intermediary may perform the services itself or may arrange with a third party to perform the services.
The Adviser and/or its affiliates may also make payments from their own resources to financial intermediaries for costs associated with the purchase of products or services used in connection with sales and marketing, participation in and/or presentation at conferences or seminars, sales or training programs, client and investor entertainment and other sponsored events. The costs and expenses associated with these efforts may include travel, lodging, sponsorship at educational seminars and conferences, entertainment and meals to the extent permitted by law.
Revenue sharing payments may be negotiated based on a variety of factors, including the level of sales, the amount of Fund assets attributable to investments in the Fund by financial intermediaries' customers, a flat fee or other measures as determined from time to time by the Adviser and/or its affiliates. A significant purpose of these
payments is to increase the sales of Fund shares, which in turn may benefit the Adviser through increased fees as Fund assets grow.
THE TRANSFER AGENT
DST Systems, Inc., 333 W. 11(th) Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105 (the "Transfer Agent"), serves as the Fund's transfer agent.
THE CUSTODIAN
Union Bank of California, N.A. 475 Samsone Street, 15(th) Floor, San Francisco, California 94111(the "Custodian"), acts as custodian of the Fund. The Custodian holds cash, securities and other assets of the Funds as required by the 1940 Act.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Ernst & Young LLP, Two Commerce Square, 2001 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, serves as independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund. The financial statements and notes thereto incorporated by reference have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, as indicated in their report with respect thereto, and are incorporated by reference in reliance on the authority of their report as experts in accounting and auditing.
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, 1701 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-2921, serves as legal counsel to the Trust.
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST
BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES. The management and affairs of the Trust and its series, including the Funds described in this SAI, are overseen by the Trustees. The Board has approved contracts, as described above, under which certain companies provide essential management services to the Trust.
Like most mutual funds, the day-to-day business of the Trust, including the management of risk, is performed by third party service providers, such as the Adviser, Distributor and Administrator. The Trustees are responsible for overseeing the Trust's service providers and, thus, have oversight responsibility with respect to risk management performed by those service providers. Risk management seeks to identify and address risks, I.E., events or circumstances that could have material adverse effects on the business, operations, shareholder services, investment performance or reputation of the Funds. The Funds and their service providers employ a variety of processes, procedures and controls to identify various of those possible events or circumstances, to lessen the probability of their occurrence and/or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur. Each service provider is responsible for one or more discrete aspects of the Trust's business (e.g., the Adviser is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio investments) and, consequently, for managing the risks associated with that business. The Board has emphasized to the Funds' service providers the importance of maintaining vigorous risk management.
The Trustees' role in risk oversight begins before the inception of a Fund, at which time certain of the Fund's service providers present the Board with information concerning the investment objectives, strategies and risks of the Fund as well as proposed investment limitations for the Fund. Additionally, the Fund's Adviser provides the Board with an overview of, among other things, its investment philosophy, brokerage practices and compliance
infrastructure. Thereafter, the Board continues its oversight function as various personnel, including the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer, as well as personnel of the Adviser and other service providers such as the Fund's independent accountants, make periodic reports to the Audit Committee or to the Board with respect to various aspects of risk management. The Board and the Audit Committee oversee efforts by management and service providers to manage risks to which the Funds may be exposed.
The Board is responsible for overseeing the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Funds by the Adviser and receives information about those services at its regular meetings. In addition, on an annual basis, in connection with its consideration of whether to renew the Advisory Agreement with the Adviser, the Board meets with the Adviser to review such services. Among other things, the Board regularly considers the Adviser's adherence to the Funds' investment restrictions and compliance with various Fund policies and procedures and with applicable securities regulations. The Board also reviews information about the Funds' investments, including, for example, portfolio holdings schedules and reports on the Adviser's use of derivatives in managing the Funds, if any, as well as reports on the Funds' investments in ETFs, if any.
The Trust's Chief Compliance Officer reports regularly to the Board to review and discuss compliance issues and Fund and Adviser risk assessments. At least annually, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer provides the Board with a report reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Trust's policies and procedures and those of its service providers, including the Adviser. The report addresses the operation of the policies and procedures of the Trust and each service provider since the date of the last report; any material changes to the policies and procedures since the date of the last report; any recommendations for material changes to the policies and procedures; and any material compliance matters since the date of the last report.
The Board receives reports from the Funds' service providers regarding operational risks and risks related to the valuation and liquidity of portfolio securities. The Trust's Fair Value Pricing Committee makes regular reports to the Board concerning investments for which market quotations are not readily available. Annually, the independent registered public accounting firm reviews with the Audit Committee its audit of the Funds' financial statements, focusing on major areas of risk encountered by the Funds and noting any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the Funds' internal controls. Additionally, in connection with its oversight function, the Board oversees Fund management's implementation of disclosure controls and procedures, which are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Trust in its periodic reports with the SEC are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the required time periods. The Board also oversees the Trust's internal controls over financial reporting, which comprise policies and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of the Trust's financial reporting and the preparation of the Trust's financial statements.
From their review of these reports and discussions with the Adviser, the Chief Compliance Officer, the independent registered public accounting firm and other service providers, the Board and the Audit Committee learn in detail about the material risks of the Funds, thereby facilitating a dialogue about how management and service providers identify and mitigate those risks.
The Board recognizes that not all risks that may affect the Funds can be identified and/or quantified, that it may not be practical or cost-effective to eliminate or mitigate certain risks, that it may be necessary to bear certain risks (such as investment-related risks) to achieve the Funds' goals, and that the processes, procedures and controls employed to address certain risks may be limited in their effectiveness. Moreover, reports received by the Trustees as to risk management matters are typically summaries of the relevant information. Most of the Funds' investment management and business affairs are carried out by or through the Funds' Adviser and other service providers each of which has an independent interest in risk management but whose policies and the methods by which one or more risk management functions are carried out may differ from the Funds' and each other's in the setting of priorities, the resources available or the effectiveness of relevant controls. As a result of
the foregoing and other factors, the Board's ability to monitor and manage risk, as a practical matter, is subject to limitations.
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD. There are eight members of the Board of Trustees, six of whom are not interested persons of the Trust, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act ("independent Trustees"). Robert Nesher, an interested person of the Trust, serves as Chairman of the Board. George Sullivan, an independent Trustee, serves as the lead independent Trustee. The Trust has determined its leadership structure is appropriate given the specific characteristics and circumstances of the Trust. The Trust made this determination in consideration of, among other things, the fact that the independent Trustees constitute a super-majority (75%) of the Board, the fact that the chairperson of each Committee of the Board is an independent Trustee, the amount of assets under management in the Trust, and the number of Funds (and classes of shares) overseen by the Board. The Board also believes that its leadership structure facilitates the orderly and efficient flow of information to the independent Trustees from Fund management.
The Board of Trustees has three standing committees: the Audit Committee, Governance Committee and Fair Value Pricing Committee. The Audit Committee and Governance Committee are chaired by an independent Trustee and composed of all of the independent Trustees. In addition, the Board of Trustees has a lead independent Trustee.
In his role as lead independent Trustee, Mr. Sullivan, among other things:
presides over board meetings in the absence of the Chairman of the Board;
presides over executive sessions of the independent Trustees; along with the
Chairman of the Board, oversees the development of agendas for Board meetings;
facilitates communication between the independent Trustees and management, and
among the independent Trustees; serves as a key point person for dealings
between the independent Trustees and management; and has such other
responsibilities as the Board or independent Trustees determine from time to
time.
Set forth below are the names, dates of birth, position with the Trust, length of term of office, and the principal occupations and other directorships held during at least the last five years of each of the persons currently serving as a Trustee of the Trust. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each Trustee is SEI Investments Company, One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTERESTED TRUSTEES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert Nesher Chairman of SEI employee 1974 to Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (08/17/46) the Board of present; currently performs Bishop Street Funds, SEI Daily Income Trust, Trustees(1) various services on behalf SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI (since 1991) of SEI Investments for Institutional Investments Trust, SEI which Mr. Nesher is Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid compensated. President and Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust and Director of SEI Opportunity SEI Tax Exempt Trust. President and Director Fund, L.P. and SEI of SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P. and SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP. Structured Credit Fund, L.P. Director of SEI President and Chief Global Master Fund plc, SEI Global Asset Fund Executive Officer of SEI plc, SEI Global Investments Fund plc, SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, Investments -- Global Funds Services, Limited, LP, June 2007 to present. SEI Investments Global, Limited, SEI Investments (Europe) Ltd., SEI Investments -- Unit Trust Management (UK) Limited, SEI Multi-Strategy Funds PLC, SEI Global Nominee Ltd. and SEI Alpha Stragegy Portfolios, L.P. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- William M. Doran Trustee(1) Self-Employed Consultant Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (05/26/40) (since 1992) since 2003. Partner at Bishop Street Funds, SEI Daily Income Trust, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI (law firm) from 1976 to Institutional Investments Trust, SEI 2003. Counsel to the Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Trust, SEI Investments, SIMC, Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust the Administrator and the and SEI Tax Exempt Trust. Director of SEI Distributor. Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP. Director of SEI Investments (Europe), Limited, SEI Investments--Global Funds Services, Limited, SEI Investments Global, Limited, SEI Investments (Asia), Limited and SEI Asset Korea Co., Ltd. Director of the Distributor since 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Charles E. Carlbom Trustee Self-Employed Business Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (08/20/34) (since 2005) Consultant, Business and Bishop Street Funds; Director of Oregon Projects Inc. Transfer Co. since 1997. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- John K. Darr Trustee Retired. CEO, Office of Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (08/17/44) (since 2008) Finance, Federal Home Loan and Bishop Street Funds, Director of Federal Bank, from 1992 to 2007. Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh and Manna, Inc. (non-profit developer of affordable housing for ownership). ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mitchell A. Johnson Trustee Retired. Private investor Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (03/01/42) (since 2005) since 1994. Bishop Street Funds, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP. Director, Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac) since 1997. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Betty L. Krikorian Trustee Vice President, Compliance, Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (01/23/43) (since 2005) AARP Financial Inc. from and Bishop Street Funds. 2008 to 2010. Self-Employed Legal and Financial Services Consultant since 2003. Counsel (in-house) for State Street Bank from 1995 to 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James M. Storey Trustee Attorney, Solo Practitioner Trustee/Director of The Advisors' Inner (04/12/31) (since 1994) since 1994. Circle Fund, Bishop Street Funds, U.S. Charitable Gift Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, L.P. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- George J. Sullivan, Jr. Trustee Self-employed Consultant, Trustee/Director of State Street Navigator (11/13/42) (since 1999) Newfound Consultants Inc. Securities Lending Trust, The Advisors' since April 1997. Inner Circle Fund, Bishop Street Funds, SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P., SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP; member of the independent review committee for SEI's Canadian-registered mutual funds. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Denotes Trustees who may be deemed to be "interested" persons of the Fund as that term is defined in the 1940 Act by virtue of their affiliation with the Distributor and/or its affiliates.
Individual Trustee Qualifications
The Trust has concluded that each of the Trustees should serve on the Board
because of their ability to review and understand information about the Funds
provided to them by management, to identify and request other information they
may deem relevant to the performance of their duties, to question management
and other service providers regarding material factors bearing on the
management and administration of the Funds, and to exercise their business
judgment in a manner that serves the best interests of the Funds' shareholders.
The Trust has concluded that each of the Trustees should serve as a Trustee
based on their own experience, qualifications, attributes and skills as
described below.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Nesher should serve as Trustee because of the experience he has gained in his various roles with SEI Investments Company, which he joined in 1974, his knowledge of and experience in the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1991.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Doran should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained serving as a Partner in the Investment Management and Securities Industry Practice of a large law firm, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1991.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Carlbom should serve as Trustee because of the business experience he gained as President and CEO of a large distribution cooperative and Chairman of a consulting company, his knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Funds since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Darr should serve as Trustee because of his background in economics, the business experience he gained in a variety of roles with different financial and banking institutions and as a founder of a money management firm, his knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2008.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Johnson should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained as President and founder of an investment management firm, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services and banking industries, the experience he gained serving as a director of other mutual funds, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Ms. Krikorian should serve as Trustee because of the experience she gained serving as a legal and financial services consultant, in-house counsel to a large custodian bank and Vice President of Compliance of an investment adviser, her background in fiduciary and banking law, her experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience she has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Storey should serve as Trustee because of the mutual fund governance experience he gained as an Investment Management attorney, both in private practice and with the SEC, his background serving as counsel to numerous mutual fund boards of trustees, his knowledge of the 1940 Act, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1994.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Sullivan should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained as a certified public accountant and financial consultant, his experience in and knowledge of public company accounting and auditing and the financial services industry, the experience he gained as an officer of a large financial services firm in its operations department and his experience from serving as trustee of the Trust since 1999.
In its periodic assessment of the effectiveness of the Board, the Board considers the complementary individual skills and experience of the individual Trustees primarily in the broader context of the Board's overall composition so that the Board, as a body, possesses the appropriate (and appropriately diverse) skills and experience to oversee the business of the funds. Moreover, references to the qualifications, attributes and skills of Trustees are pursuant to requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, do not constitute holding out of the Board or any Trustee as having any special expertise or experience, and shall not be deemed to impose any greater responsibility or liability on any such person or on the Board by reason thereof.
BOARD COMMITTEES. The Board has established the following standing committees:
o AUDIT COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Audit Committee that is
composed of each of the independent Trustees of the Trust. The Audit
Committee operates under a written charter approved by the Board. The
principal responsibilities of the Audit Committee include:
recommending which firm to engage as each fund's independent
registered public accounting firm and whether to terminate this
relationship; reviewing the independent registered public accounting
firm's compensation, the proposed scope and terms of its engagement,
and the firm's independence; pre-approving audit and non-audit
services provided by each fund's independent registered public
accounting firm to the Trust and certain other affiliated entities;
serving as a channel of communication between the independent
registered public accounting firm and the Trustees; reviewing the
results of each external audit, including any qualifications in the
independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, any related
management letter, management's responses to recommendations made by
the independent registered public accounting firm in connection with
the audit, reports submitted to the Committee by the internal auditing
department of the Trust's Administrator that are material to the Trust as a whole, if any, and management's responses to any such reports; reviewing each fund's audited financial statements and considering any significant disputes between the Trust's management and the independent registered public accounting firm that arose in connection with the preparation of those financial statements; considering, in consultation with the independent registered public accounting firm and the Trust's senior internal accounting executive, if any, the independent registered public accounting firms' reports on the adequacy of the Trust's internal financial controls; reviewing, in consultation with each fund's independent registered public accounting firm, major changes regarding auditing and accounting principles and practices to be followed when preparing each fund's financial statements; and other audit related matters. Messrs. Carlbom, Darr, Johnson, Storey, Sullivan and Ms. Krikorian currently serve as members of the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
o FAIR VALUE PRICING COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Fair Value Pricing Committee that is composed of at least one Trustee and various representatives of the Trust's service providers, as appointed by the Board. The Fair Value Pricing Committee operates under procedures approved by the Board. The principal responsibility of the Fair Value Pricing Committee is to determine the fair value of securities for which current market quotations are not readily available. The Fair Value Pricing Committee's determinations are reviewed by the Board. Mr. Nesher, interested trustee, currently serves as the Board's delegate on the Fair Value Pricing Committee. The Fair Value Pricing Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
o GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Governance Committee (formerly the Nominating Committee) that is composed of each of the independent Trustees of the Trust. The Governance Committee operates under a written charter approved by the Board. The principal responsibilities of the Governance Committee include: considering and reviewing Board governance and compensation issues; conducting a self-assessment of the Board's operations; selecting and nominating all persons to serve as Independent Trustees and evaluating the qualifications of "interested" Trustee candidates; and reviewing shareholder recommendations for nominations to fill vacancies on the Board if such recommendations are submitted in writing and addressed to the Committee at the Trust's office. Ms. Krikorian and Messrs. Carlbom, Darr, Johnson, Storey and Sullivan, currently serve as members of the Governance Committee. The Governance Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
FUND SHARES OWNED BY BOARD MEMBERS. The following table shows the dollar amount range of each Trustee's "beneficial ownership" of shares of the Fund as of the end of the most recently completed calendar year. Dollar amount ranges disclosed are established by the SEC. "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the 1934 Act. The Trustees and officers of the Trust own less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Trust.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF SHARES NAME DOLLAR RANGE OF FUND SHARES (ALL FUNDS)(1) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTERESTED TRUSTEES ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nesher None None ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Doran None None ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Carlbom None None ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Darr None None ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Johnson None None ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Krikorian None None ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF SHARES NAME DOLLAR RANGE OF FUND SHARES (ALL FUNDS)(1) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Storey None None ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sullivan None None ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Valuation date is December 31, 2009.
BOARD COMPENSATION. The Trust paid the following fees to the Trustees during its most recently completed fiscal year.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PENSION OR RETIREMENT BENEFITS ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL COMPENSATION FROM AGGREGATE ACCRUED AS PART OF BENEFITS UPON THE TRUST AND FUND NAME COMPENSATION FUND EXPENSES RETIREMENT COMPLEX(2) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $0 for service on one (1) Robert A. Nesher(1) $0 N/A N/A board ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $0 for service on one (1) William M. Doran(1) $0 N/A N/A board ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Charles E. Carlbom $XX N/A N/A $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- John K. Darr $XX N/A N/A $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mitchell A. Johnson $XX N/A N/A $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Betty L. Krikorian $XX N/A N/A $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James M. Storey $XX N/A N/A $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- George J. Sullivan $XX N/A N/A $XX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) A Trustee who is an "interested person" as defined by the 1940 Act.
(2) The Trust is the only investment company in the "Fund Complex."
TRUST OFFICERS. Set forth below are the names, dates of birth, position with the Trust, and the principal occupations for the last five years of each of the persons currently serving as the Executive Officers of the Trust. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each officer is SEI Investments Company, One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. The Chief Compliance Officer is the only officer who receives compensation from the Trust for his services.
Certain officers of the Trust also serve as officers of one or more mutual funds for which SEI Investments Company or its affiliates act as investment manager, administrator or distributor.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST NAME AND AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN PAST 5 YEARS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Philip T. President Managing Director of SEI Investments None. Masterson (since 2008) since 2006. Vice President and (03/12/64) Assistant Secretary of the Administrator from 2004 to 2006. General Counsel of Citco Mutual Fund Services from 2003 to 2004. Vice President and Associate Counsel for the Oppenheimer Funds from 2001 to 2003. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST NAME AND AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN PAST 5 YEARS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael Treasurer, Director, SEI Investments, Fund None. Lawson Controller and Accounting since July 2005. Manager, (10/08/60) Chief Financial SEI Investments, Fund Accounting at Officer SEI Investments AVP from April 1995 (since 2005) to February 1998 and November 1998 to July 2005. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Russell Emery Chief Compliance Chief Compliance Officer of SEI None. (12/18/62) Officer Structured Credit Fund, LP and SEI (since 2006) Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP since June 2007. Chief Compliance Officer of SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P., SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust and SEI Tax Exempt Trust since March 2006. Director of Investment Product Management and Development, SEI Investments, since February 2003; Senior Investment Analyst -- Equity Team, SEI Investments, from March 2000 to February 2003. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Carolyn Mead Vice President Counsel at SEI Investments since 2007. None. (07/08/57) and Assistant Associate at Stradley, Ronon, Stevens Secretary & Young from 2004 to 2007. Counsel (since 2007) at ING Variable Annuities from 1999 to 2002. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Timothy D. Vice President General Counsel and Secretary of None. Barto and Assistant SIMC and the Administrator since (03/28/68) Secretary 2004. Vice President of SIMC and the (since 1999) Administrator since 1999. Vice President and Assistant Secretary of SEI Investments since 2001. Assistant Secretary of SIMC, the Administrator and the Distributor, and Vice President of the Distributor from 1999 to 2003. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James Ndiaye Vice President Vice President and Assistant Secretary None. (09/11/68) and Assistant of SIMC since 2005. Vice President at Secretary Deutsche Asset Management from 2003 (since 2004) to 2004. Associate at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP from 2000 to 2003. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Joseph Gallo Vice President Counsel at SEI Investments since 2007. None. (04/29/73) and Secretary Associate Counsel at ICMA--RC from (since 2007) 2004 to 2007. Assistant Secretary of The VantageTrust Company in 2007. Assistant Secretary of The Vantagepoint Funds from 2006 to 2007. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST NAME AND AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN PAST 5 YEARS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew S. AML Officer Compliance Officer and Product None. Decker (since 2008) Manager of SEI Investments since (08/22/63) 2005. Vice President of Old Mutual Capital from 2000 to 2005. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael Beattie Vice President Director of Client Service at SEI since None. (03/13/65) (since 2009) 2004. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Keri Rohn Privacy Officer Compliance Officer at SEI Investments None. (8/24/80) (since 2009) since 2003. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES
Purchases and redemptions may be made through the Transfer Agent on any day the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. Shares of the Fund are offered and redeemed on a continuous basis. Currently, the Trust is closed for business when the following holidays are observed: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
It is currently the Trust's policy to pay all redemptions in cash. The Trust retains the right, however, to alter this policy to provide for redemptions in whole or in part by a distribution in-kind of securities held by the Fund in lieu of cash. Shareholders may incur brokerage charges on the sale of any such securities so received in payment of redemptions. A shareholder will at all times be entitled to aggregate cash redemptions from all funds of the Trust up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the Trust's net assets during any 90-day period. The Trust has obtained an exemptive order from the SEC that permits the Trust to make in-kind redemptions to those shareholders of the Trust that are affiliated with the Trust solely by their ownership of a certain percentage of the Trust's investment portfolios.
The Trust reserves the right to suspend the right of redemption and/or to postpone the date of payment upon redemption for any period on which trading on the NYSE is restricted, or during the existence of an emergency (as determined by the SEC by rule or regulation) as a result of which disposal or valuation of the Fund's securities is not reasonably practicable, or for such other periods as the SEC has by order permitted. The Trust also reserves the right to suspend sales of shares of the Fund for any period during which the NYSE, the Adviser, the Administrator, the Transfer Agent and/or the Custodian are not open for business.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
GENERAL POLICY. The Fund adheres to Section 2(a)(41), and Rule 2a-4 thereunder, of the 1940 Act with respect to the valuation of portfolio securities. In general, securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at current market value, and all other securities are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Board. In complying with the 1940 Act, the Trust relies on guidance provided by the SEC and by the SEC staff in various interpretive letters and other guidance.
EQUITY SECURITIES. Securities listed on a securities exchange, market or automated quotation system for which quotations are readily available (except for securities traded on NASDAQ), including securities traded over the counter, are valued at the last quoted sale price on the primary exchange or market (foreign or domestic) on which
they are traded on valuation date (or at approximately 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time if a security's primary exchange is normally open at that time), or, if there is no such reported sale on the valuation date, at the most recent quoted bid price. For securities traded on NASDAQ, the NASDAQ Official Closing Price will be used. If such prices are not available or determined to not represent the fair value of the security as of the Fund's pricing time, the security will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
MONEY MARKET SECURITIES AND OTHER DEBT SECURITIES. If available, money market securities and other debt securities are priced based upon valuations provided by recognized independent, third-party pricing agents. Such values generally reflect the last reported sales price if the security is actively traded. The third-party pricing agents may also value debt securities by employing methodologies that utilize actual market transactions, broker-supplied valuations, or other methodologies designed to identify the market value for such securities. Such methodologies generally consider such factors as security prices, yields, maturities, call features, ratings and developments relating to specific securities in arriving at valuations. Money market securities and other debt securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less may be valued at their amortized cost, which approximates market value. If such prices are not available or determined to not represent the fair value of the security as of the Fund's pricing time, the security will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
USE OF THIRD-PARTY INDEPENDENT PRICING AGENTS. Pursuant to contracts with the Administrator, market prices for most securities held by the Fund are provided daily by third-party independent pricing agents that are approved by the Board. The valuations provided by third-party independent pricing agents are reviewed daily by the Administrator.
TAXES
The following is only a summary of certain additional federal income tax considerations generally affecting the Fund and its shareholders that is intended to supplement the discussion contained in the Fund's Prospectus. No attempt is made to present a detailed explanation of the tax treatment of the Fund or its shareholders, and the discussion here and in the Fund's Prospectus is not intended as a substitute for careful tax planning. Shareholders are urged to consult with their tax advisors with specific reference to their own tax situations, including their state, local, and foreign tax liabilities.
The following general discussion of certain federal income tax consequences is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and the regulations issued thereunder as in effect on the date of this SAI. New legislation, as well as administrative changes or court decisions, may significantly change the conclusions expressed herein, and may have a retroactive effect with respect to the transactions contemplated herein.
Qualifications as a RIC
The Fund intends to qualify and elects to be treated as a "regulated investment company" ("RIC") under Subchapter M of the Code. By following such a policy, the Fund expects to eliminate or reduce to a nominal amount the federal taxes to which it may be subject. The Board reserves the right not to maintain the qualification of the Fund as a regulated investment company if it determines such course of action to be beneficial to shareholders.
In order to be taxable as a RIC, the Fund must distribute annually to its shareholders at least 90% of its net investment income (generally net investment income plus the excess of net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses, less operating expenses) and at least 90% of its net tax exempt interest income, for each tax year, if any, to its shareholders ("Distribution Requirement") and also must meet several additional requirements. Among these requirements are the following: (i) at least 90% of the Fund's gross income each taxable year must
be derived from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income, including, generally, certain gains from options, futures, and forward contracts derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies, and net income derived from an interest in qualified publicly traded partnerships ("90% Test"); (ii) at the end of each fiscal quarter of the Fund's taxable year, at least 50% of the market value of its total assets must be represented by cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, securities of other RICs and other securities, with such other securities limited, in respect to any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets or more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (iii) at the end of each fiscal quarter of the Fund's taxable year, not more than 25% of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities (other than U.S. government securities or securities of other RICs) of any one issuer or the securities (other than the securities of other RICs) of two or more issuers that the Fund controls and which are engaged in the same, or similar, or related trades or businesses, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships ("Asset Test").
If the Fund fails to qualify as a RIC for any year, all of its income will be subject to federal income tax at regular corporate rates without any deduction for distributions to shareholders. In such case, its shareholders would be taxed as if they received ordinary dividends, although corporate shareholders could be eligible for the dividends received deduction and individuals may be able to benefit from the lower tax rates available to qualified dividend income. In addition, the Fund would be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial taxes and interest, and make substantial distributions before requalifying as a RIC.
FEDERAL EXCISE TAX
Notwithstanding the Distribution Requirement described above, which only requires the Fund to distribute at least 90% of its annual investment company income and does not require any minimum distribution of net capital gain, the Fund will be subject to a nondeductible 4% federal excise tax to the extent it fails to distribute, by the end of any calendar year, at least 98% of its ordinary income for that year and 98% of its capital gain net income (the excess of short- and long-term capital gain over short- and long-term capital loss) for the one-year period ending on October 31 of that year, plus certain other amounts. The Fund intends to make sufficient distributions to avoid liability for federal excise tax, but can make no assurances that such tax will be completely eliminated. The Fund may, in certain circumstances, be required to liquidate Fund investments in order to make sufficient distributions to avoid federal excise tax liability at a time when the investment adviser might not otherwise have chosen to do so, and liquidation of investments in such circumstances may affect the ability of the Fund to satisfy the requirement for qualification as a RIC.
SHAREHOLDER TREATMENT
The Fund's dividends that are paid to its corporate shareholders and are attributable to qualifying dividends it received from U.S. domestic corporations may be eligible, in the hands of such shareholders, for the corporate dividends received deduction, subject to certain holding period requirements and debt financing limitations. Generally, and subject to certain limitations (including certain holding period limitations), a dividend will be treated as a qualifying dividend if it has been received from a domestic corporation. All dividends (including the deducted portion) must be included in your alternative minimum taxable income calculation.
The Fund receives income generally in the form of dividends and interest on investments. This income, plus net short-term capital gains, if any, less expenses incurred in the operation of the Fund, constitutes the Fund's net investment income from which dividends may be paid to you. Any distributions by the Fund from such income will be taxable to you as ordinary income or at the lower capital gains rates that apply to individuals receiving qualified dividend income, whether you take them in cash or in additional shares.
Distributions by the Fund will be eligible for the reduced maximum tax rate to
individuals of 15% (lower rates apply to individuals in lower tax brackets) to
the extent that the Fund receives qualified dividend income on the securities
it holds and the Fund designates the distribution as qualified dividend income.
Qualified dividend income is, in general, dividend income from taxable
domestic corporations and certain foreign corporations (e.g., foreign
corporations incorporated in a possession of the United States or in certain
countries with a comprehensive tax treaty with the United States, or the stock
of which is readily tradable on an established securities market in the United
States). A dividend will not be treated as qualified dividend income to the
extent that (i) the shareholder has not held the shares on which the dividend
was paid for more than 60 days during the 121-day period that begins on the
date that is 60 days before the date on which the shares become "ex-dividend"
(which is the day on which declared distributions (dividends or capital gains)
are deducted from the Fund's assets before it calculates the net asset value)
with respect to such dividend (and the Fund also satisfies those holding period
requirements with respect to the securities it holds that paid the dividends
distributed to the shareholder), (ii) the shareholder is under an obligation
(whether pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with
respect to substantially similar or related property, or (iii) the shareholder
elects to treat such dividend as investment income under section 163(d)(4)(B)
of the Code. Absent further legislation, the maximum 15% rate on qualified
dividend income will not apply to dividends received in taxable years beginning
after December 31, 2010. Distributions by the Fund of its net short-term
capital gains will be taxable as ordinary income. Capital gain distributions
consisting of the Fund's net capital gains will be taxable as long-term capital
gains regardless of how long the Fund's shares have been held by the
shareholder. The Fund will report annually to its shareholders the amount of
the Fund's distributions that qualify for the reduced tax rates on qualified
dividend income.
If the Fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be re-characterized as a return of capital to the shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the Fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
Any gain or loss recognized on a sale, exchange, or redemption of shares of the Fund by a shareholder who is not a dealer in securities will generally, for individual shareholders, be treated as a long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than twelve months and otherwise will be treated as a short-term capital gain or loss. However, if shares on which a shareholder has received a net capital gain distribution are subsequently sold, exchanged, or redeemed and such shares have been held for six months or less, any loss recognized will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of the net capital gain distribution. In addition, the loss realized on a sale or other disposition of shares will be disallowed to the extent a shareholder repurchases (or enters into a contract to or option to repurchase) shares within a period of 61 days (beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the disposition of the shares). This loss disallowance rule will apply to shares received through the reinvestment of dividends during the 61-day period.
FOREIGN TAXES. If more than 50% of the value of the Fund's total assets at the close of its taxable year consists of stocks or securities of foreign corporations, the Fund will be eligible to, and will, file an election with the Internal Revenue Service that may enable shareholders, in effect, to receive either the benefit of a foreign tax credit or a deduction with respect to any foreign and U.S. possessions income taxes paid by the Fund, subject to certain limitations. Pursuant to the election, the Fund will treat those taxes as dividends paid to its shareholders. Each such shareholder will be required to include a proportionate share of those taxes in gross income as income received from a foreign source and must treat the amount so included as if the shareholder had paid the foreign tax directly. The shareholder may then either deduct the taxes deemed paid by him or her in computing his or her taxable income or, alternatively, use the foregoing information in calculating any foreign tax credit they may be entitled to use against the shareholders' federal income tax. If the Fund makes the election, the Fund will report annually to its shareholders the respective amounts per share of the Fund's income from sources within, and taxes paid to, foreign countries and U.S. possessions.
STATE TAXES. Depending upon state and local law, distributions by the Fund to its shareholders and the ownership of such shares may be subject to state and local taxes. Rules of state and local taxation of dividend and capital gains distributions from RICs often differ from rules for federal income taxation described above. The Fund is not liable for any income or franchise tax in Massachusetts if it qualifies as a RIC for federal income tax purposes. Shareholders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding state and local taxes applicable to an investment in the Fund.
Many states grant tax-free status to dividends paid to you from interest earned on direct obligations of the U.S. government, subject in some states to minimum investment requirements that must be met by the Fund. Investment in Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae") or Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") securities, banker's acceptances, commercial paper, and repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government securities do not generally qualify for such tax-free treatment. The rules on exclusion of this income are different for corporate shareholders.
TAX TREATMENT OF COMPLEX SECURITIES. The Fund may invest in complex securities. These investments may be subject to numerous special and complex tax rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by the Fund are treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the recognition of income to the Fund and/or defer the Fund's ability to recognize losses, and, in limited cases, subject the Fund to U.S. federal income tax on income from certain of its foreign securities. In turn, these rules may affect the amount, timing or character of the income distributed to you by the Fund.
Most foreign exchange gains realized on the sale of debt securities are treated as ordinary income by the Fund. Similarly, foreign exchange losses realized by the Fund on the sale of debt securities are generally treated as ordinary losses by the Fund. These gains when distributed will be taxable to you as ordinary dividends, and any losses will reduce the Fund's ordinary income otherwise available for distribution to you. This treatment could increase or reduce the Fund's ordinary income distributions to you, and may cause some or all of the Fund's previously distributed income to be classified as a return of capital.
With respect to investments in STRIPS, TRs, and other zero coupon securities which are sold at original issue discount and thus do not make periodic cash interest payments, the Fund will be required to include as part of its current income the imputed interest on such obligations even though the Fund has not received any interest payments on such obligations during that period. Because the Fund distributes all of its net investment income to its shareholders, the Fund may have to sell Fund securities to distribute such imputed income which may occur at a time when the Adviser would not have chosen to sell such securities and which may result in taxable gain or loss.
COMMODITY-LINKED DERIVATIVES. The status of the swap agreements and other commodity-linked derivative instruments under tests to qualify as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code has been recently addressed in Revenue Ruling 2006-1 and Revenue Ruling 2006-31 which provide that income from commodity-linked swaps in which the Fund invests will not be considered qualifying income after September 30, 2006. After such time, the Fund will therefore restrict its income from commodity-linked swaps (when combined with its other investments that produce non-qualifying income) to be less than 10 percent of its gross income. The Fund may also gain exposure to commodities through investments in controlled foreign corporations and certain qualified publicly traded partnerships.
SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. In general, with respect to the Fund, gains from "foreign currencies" and from foreign currency options, foreign currency futures, and forward foreign exchange contracts ("forward contracts") relating to investments in stock, securities, or foreign currencies will be qualifying income for purposes of determining whether the Fund qualifies as a RIC. It is currently unclear, however, who will be treated as the
issuer of a foreign currency instrument for purposes of the RIC diversification requirements applicable to the Fund.
Under the Code, special rules are provided for certain transactions in a foreign currency other than the taxpayer's functional currency (I.E., unless certain special rules apply, currencies other than the U.S. Dollar). In general, foreign currency gains or losses from forward contracts, from futures contracts that are not "regulated futures contracts," and from unlisted options will be treated as ordinary income or loss under the Code. Also, certain foreign exchange gains derived with respect to foreign fixed-income securities are also subject to special treatment. In general, any such gains or losses will increase or decrease the amount of the Fund's investment company taxable income available to be distributed to shareholders as ordinary income, rather than increasing or decreasing the amount of the Fund's net capital gain. Additionally, if such losses exceed other investment company taxable income during a taxable year, the Fund would not be able to make any ordinary dividend distributions.
OTHER TAX POLICIES. In certain cases, the Fund will be required to withhold, at the applicable withholding rate, and remit to the United States Treasury, such withheld amounts on any distributions paid to a shareholder who (1) has failed to provide a correct taxpayer identification number, (2) is subject to backup withholding by the Internal Revenue Service, (3) has not certified to the Fund that such shareholder is not subject to backup withholding, or (4) has not certified that such shareholder is a U.S. person or U.S. resident alien.
Non-U.S. investors in the Fund may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax and are encouraged to consult their tax advisors prior to investing in the Fund.
FUND TRANSACTIONS
BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS. Generally, equity securities, both listed and over-the-counter, are bought and sold through brokerage transactions for which commissions are payable. Purchases from underwriters will include the underwriting commission or concession, and purchases from dealers serving as market makers will include a dealer's mark-up or reflect a dealer's mark-down. Money market securities and other debt securities are usually bought and sold directly from the issuer or an underwriter or market maker for the securities. Generally, the Fund will not pay brokerage commissions for such purchases. When a debt security is bought from an underwriter, the purchase price will usually include an underwriting commission or concession. The purchase price for securities bought from dealers serving as market makers will similarly include the dealer's mark up or reflect a dealer's mark down. When the Fund executes transactions in the over-the-counter market, it will generally deal with primary market makers unless prices that are more favorable are otherwise obtainable. The purchase price for securities bought from dealers serving as market makers will similarly include the dealer's mark up or reflect a dealer's mark down. When the Fund executes transactions in the over-the-counter market, it will generally deal with primary market makers unless prices that are more favorable are otherwise obtainable.
In addition, the Adviser may place a combined order for two or more accounts it manages, including the Fund, engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security if, in its judgment, joint execution is in the best interest of each participant and will result in best price and execution. Transactions involving commingled orders are allocated in a manner deemed equitable to each account or fund. Although it is recognized that, in some cases, the joint execution of orders could adversely affect the price or volume of the security that a particular account or the Fund may obtain, it is the opinion of the Adviser and the Board that the advantages of combined orders outweigh the possible disadvantages of separate transactions. Nonetheless, the Adviser believes that the ability of the Fund to participate in higher volume transactions will generally be beneficial to the Fund.
For the fiscal period ended July 31, 2008 and the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the Fund paid the following in aggregate brokerage commissions on portfolio transactions:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND 2008 2009 2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GRT Value Fund $1,313(1) $2,616 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) For the fiscal period from May 1, 2008 to July 31, 2008.
BROKERAGE SELECTION. The Trust does not expect to use one particular broker or dealer, and when one or more brokers is believed capable of providing the best combination of price and execution, the Fund's Adviser may select a broker based upon brokerage or research services provided to the Adviser. The Adviser may pay a higher commission than otherwise obtainable from other brokers in return for such services only if a good faith determination is made that the commission is reasonable in relation to the services provided.
Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act permits the Adviser, under certain circumstances, to cause the Fund to pay a broker or dealer a commission for effecting a transaction in excess of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting the transaction in recognition of the value of brokerage and research services provided by the broker or dealer. In addition to agency transactions, the Adviser may receive brokerage and research services in connection with certain riskless principal transactions, in accordance with applicable SEC guidance. Brokerage and research services include: (1) furnishing advice as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities, and the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of securities; (2) furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy, and the performance of accounts; and (3) effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance, settlement, and custody). In the case of research services, the Adviser believes that access to independent investment research is beneficial to its investment decision-making processes and, therefore, to the Fund.
To the extent that research services may be a factor in selecting brokers, such services may be in written form or through direct contact with individuals and may include information as to particular companies and securities as well as market, economic, or institutional areas and information which assists in the valuation and pricing of investments. Examples of research-oriented services for which the Adviser might utilize Fund commissions include research reports and other information on the economy, industries, sectors, groups of securities, individual companies, statistical information, political developments, technical market action, pricing and appraisal services, credit analysis, risk measurement analysis, performance and other analysis. The Adviser may use research services furnished by brokers in servicing all client accounts and not all services may necessarily be used in connection with the account that paid commissions to the broker providing such services. Information so received by the Adviser will be in addition to and not in lieu of the services required to be performed by the Fund's Adviser under the Advisory Agreement. Any advisory or other fees paid to the Adviser are not reduced as a result of the receipt of research services.
In some cases the Adviser may receive a service from a broker that has both a "research" and a "non-research" use. When this occurs, the Adviser makes a good faith allocation, under all the circumstances, between the research and non-research uses of the service. The percentage of the service that is used for research purposes may be paid for with client commissions, while the Adviser will use its own funds to pay for the percentage of the service that is used for non-research purposes. In making this good faith allocation, the Adviser faces a potential conflict of interest, but the Adviser believes that its allocation procedures are reasonably designed to ensure that it appropriately allocates the anticipated use of such services to their research and non-research uses.
From time to time, the Fund may purchase new issues of securities for clients in a fixed price offering. In these situations, the seller may be a member of the selling group that will, in addition to selling securities, provide the adviser with research services. FINRA has adopted rules expressly permitting these types of arrangements under certain circumstances. Generally, the seller will provide research "credits" in these situations at a rate that is higher than that which is available for typical secondary market transactions. These arrangements may not fall within the safe harbor of Section 28(e).
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Fund paid the following commissions on brokerage transactions directed to brokers pursuant to an agreement or understanding whereby the broker provides research or other brokerage services to the Adviser:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TOTAL DOLLAR AMOUNT OF BROKERAGE TOTAL DOLLAR AMOUNT OF TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING COMMISSIONS FOR RESEARCH SERVICES BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS FOR RESEARCH SERVICES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $XX $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
BROKERAGE WITH FUND AFFILIATES. The Fund may execute brokerage or other agency transactions through registered broker-dealer affiliates of the Fund, the Adviser or the Distributor for a commission in conformity with the 1940 Act, the 1934 Act and rules promulgated by the SEC. These rules further require that commissions paid to the affiliate by the Fund for exchange transactions not exceed "usual and customary" brokerage commissions. The rules define "usual and customary" commissions to include amounts which are "reasonable and fair compared to the commission, fee or other remuneration received or to be received by other brokers in connection with comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold on a securities exchange during a comparable period of time." The Trustees, including those who are not "interested persons" of the Fund, have adopted procedures for evaluating the reasonableness of commissions paid to affiliates and review these procedures periodically.
For the fiscal period from May 1, 2008 (commencement of operations) to July 31, 2008, and the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the Fund paid the following aggregate brokerage commissions on portfolio transactions effected by affiliated brokers. All amounts shown were paid to the Distributor and reflect fees paid in connection with Fund repurchase agreement transactions.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL BROKERAGE AGGREGATE DOLLAR AMOUNT OF PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS PAID TO COMMISSIONS PAID TO EFFECTED THROUGH AFFILIATED BROKERS AFFILIATED BROKERS AFFILIATED BROKERS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0% 0% XX% XX% 0% XX% XX% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
SECURITIES OF "REGULAR BROKER-DEALERS." The Fund is required to identify any securities of its "regular brokers and dealers" (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) which the Fund may hold at the close of its most recent fiscal year. As of July 31, 2010, the Fund did not hold any securities of its regular broker dealers.
PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The Board has approved a policy and procedures that govern the timing and circumstances regarding the disclosure of Fund portfolio holdings information to shareholders and third parties. These policies and procedures are designed to ensure that disclosure of information regarding the Fund's portfolio securities is in the best interests of Fund shareholders, and include procedures to address conflicts between the interests of the Fund's shareholders, on the one hand, and those of the Fund's Adviser, principal underwriter, or any affiliated person of the Fund, its Adviser or its principal underwriter, on the other. Pursuant to such procedures, the Board has authorized the Adviser's Chief Compliance Officer ("Adviser CCO") to authorize the release of the Fund's portfolio holdings, as necessary, in conformity with the foregoing principles. The Adviser CCO, either directly or through reports by the Fund's Chief Compliance Officer, reports quarterly to the Board regarding the operation and administration of such policies and procedures.
Pursuant to applicable law, the Fund is required to disclose its complete portfolio holdings quarterly, within 60 days of the end of each fiscal quarter (currently, each July 31, October 31, January 31 and April 30). The Fund will disclose a complete or summary schedule of investments (which includes the Fund's 50 largest holdings in unaffiliated issuers and each investment in unaffiliated issuers that exceeds one percent of the Fund's net asset value ("Summary Schedule")) in its Semi-Annual and Annual Reports which are distributed to Fund shareholders. The Fund's complete schedule of investments following the first and third fiscal quarters is available in quarterly holdings reports filed with the SEC on Form N-Q, and the Fund's complete schedule of investments following the 2nd and 4th fiscal quarters is available in Semi-Annual and Annual Reports filed with the SEC on Form N-CSR. Quarterly holdings reports filed with the SEC on Form N-Q are not distributed to Fund shareholders, but are available, free of charge, on the EDGAR database on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
In addition to information provided to shareholders and the general public, portfolio holdings information may be disclosed as frequently as daily to certain service providers, such as the custodian, administrator or transfer agent, in connection with their services to the Fund. From time to time rating and ranking organizations, such as S&P, Lipper and Morningstar, Inc., may request non-public portfolio holdings information in connection with rating the Fund. Similarly, institutional investors, financial planners, pension plan sponsors and/or their consultants or other third-parties may request portfolio holdings information in order to assess the risks of the Fund's portfolio along with related performance attribution statistics. The lag time for such disclosures will vary. The Fund believes that these third parties have legitimate objectives in requesting such portfolio holdings information. The Fund's Chief Compliance Officer will regularly review these arrangements and will make periodic reports to the Board regarding disclosure pursuant to such arrangements.
The Fund's policies and procedures provide that the Adviser's CCO may authorize disclosure of non-public portfolio holdings information to such parties at differing times and/or with different lag times. Prior to making any disclosure to a third party, the Adviser's CCO must determine that such disclosure serves a reasonable business purpose, is in the best interests of the Fund's shareholders and that to the extent conflicts between the interests of the Fund's shareholders and those of the Fund's Adviser, principal underwriter, or any affiliated person of the Fund exist, such conflicts are addressed. Portfolio holdings information may be disclosed no more frequently than monthly to ratings agencies, consultants and other qualified financial professionals or individuals. The disclosures will not be made sooner than three days after the date of the information.
With the exception of disclosures to rating and ranking organizations as described above, the Fund requires any third party receiving non-public holdings information to enter into a confidentiality agreement with the Adviser. The confidentiality agreement provides, among other things, that non-public portfolio holdings information will be kept confidential and that the recipient has a duty not to trade on the non-public information and will use such information solely to analyze and rank the Fund, or to perform due diligence and asset allocation, depending on the recipient of the information.
The Fund's policies and procedures prohibit any compensation or other consideration from being paid to or received by any party in connection with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information, including the Fund, Adviser and its affiliates or recipient of the Fund's portfolio holdings information.
DESCRIPTION OF SHARES
The Declaration of Trust authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of funds and shares of each fund, each of which represents an equal proportionate interest in the portfolio with each other share. Shares are entitled upon liquidation to a pro rata share in the net assets of the fund. Shareholders have no preemptive rights. The Declaration of Trust provides that the Trustees of the Trust may create additional series or classes of shares. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any additional funds and all assets in which such consideration is invested would belong to that fund and would be subject to the liabilities related thereto. Share certificates representing shares will not be issued.
SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY
The Trust is an entity of the type commonly known as a "Massachusetts business trust." Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of such a trust could, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the trust. Even if, however, the Trust were held to be a partnership, the possibility of the shareholders incurring financial loss for that reason appears remote because the Trust's Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for obligations of the Trust and requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each agreement, obligation or instrument entered into or executed by or on behalf of the Trust or the Trustees, and because the Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification out of the Trust's property for any shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust.
LIMITATION OF TRUSTEES' LIABILITY
The Declaration of Trust provides that a Trustee shall be liable only for his or her own willful defaults and, if reasonable care has been exercised in the selection of officers, agents, employees or investment advisers, shall not be liable for any neglect or wrongdoing of any such person. The Declaration of Trust also provides that the Trust will indemnify its Trustees and officers against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection with actual or threatened litigation in which they may be involved because of their offices with the Trust unless it is determined in the manner provided in the Declaration of Trust that they have not acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that their actions were in the best interests of the Trust. However, nothing in the Declaration of Trust shall protect or indemnify a Trustee against any liability for his or her willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his or her duties. Nothing contained in this section attempts to disclaim a Trustee's individual liability in any manner inconsistent with the federal securities laws.
PROXY VOTING
The Board of Trustees of the Trust has delegated responsibility for decisions regarding proxy voting for securities held by the Fund to the Adviser. The Adviser will vote such proxies in accordance with its proxy policies and procedures, which are included in Appendix B to this SAI. The Board of Trustees will periodically review the Fund's proxy voting record.
The Trust is required to disclose annually the Fund's complete proxy voting record on Form N-PX. The Fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12 month period ended June 30th is available upon request by calling 1-877-GRT-4GRT or by writing to SEI Investment Global Funds Services at: One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. The Fund's Form N-PX will also be available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
CODES OF ETHICS
The Board of Trustees, on behalf of the Trust, has adopted a Code of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. In addition, the Adviser, the Distributor and the Administrator have adopted Codes of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1. These Codes of Ethics apply to the personal investing activities of trustees, officers and certain employees ("access persons"). Rule 17j-1 and the Codes of Ethics are designed to prevent unlawful practices in connection with the purchase or sale of securities by access persons. Under each Code of Ethics, access persons are permitted to engage in personal securities transactions, but are required to report their personal securities transactions for monitoring purposes. In addition, certain access persons are required to obtain approval before investing in initial public offerings or private placements, or are prohibited from making such investments. Copies of these Codes of Ethics are on file with the SEC, and are available to the public.
5% AND 25% SHAREHOLDERS
As of __________ __, 2010, the following persons were record owners (or to the knowledge of the Trust, beneficial owners) of 5% and 25% or more of the shares of the Fund. Persons who owned of record or beneficially more than 25% of the Fund's outstanding shares may be deemed to control the Fund within the meaning of the 1940 Act.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NAME AND ADDRESS NUMBER OF SHARES CLASS OF SHARES % OF CLASS ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Lawson P. Allen XX Advisor XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- GRT Capital Partners, L.L.C.(1) XX Advisor XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rudolph K. Kluiber(1) XX Advisor XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- National Financial Services LLC for the Advisor XX% exclusive benefit of our customers(2) XX ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Timothy A. Krochuk(1) XX Advisor XX% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Timothy A. Krochuk and Rudolph K. Kluiber are principals of the Adviser. GRT Capital Partners, L.L.C. is organized under the laws of the state of Delaware. The addresses for Mr. Krochuk, Mr. Kluiber, and GRT Capital Partners, L.L.C. is 50 Milk Street, Floor 21, Boston, MA 02109.
(2) The Trust believes that most of the shares referred to were held in the account for the fiduciary, agency or custodial customers of the named holder. The holding of National Financial Services, L.L.C. includes shares of the Fund in the Adviser's 401K plan. The Adviser's 401K plan holds shares for the benefit of the Adviser's employees, including approximately 5,220 shares for the benefit of Timothy A. Krochuk and 3,912 shares for the benefit of Gregory B. Fraser. The address of National Financial Services LLC is 200 Liberty Street, One World Financial Center, New York, NY 10281-1003.
APPENDIX A -- DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
The following descriptions are summaries of published ratings.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
A-1 This is the highest category by Standard and Poor's (S&P) and indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment is strong. Those issues determined to possess extremely strong safety characteristics are denoted with a plus sign (+) designation. A-2 Capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is satisfactory and the obligation is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. PRIME-1 Issues rated Prime-1 (or supporting institutions) by Moody's have a superior ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. Prime-1 repayment ability will often be evidenced by many of the following characteristics: - Leading market positions in well-established industries. - High rates of return on funds employed. - Conservative capitalization structure with moderate reliance on debt and ample asset protection. - Broad margins in earnings coverage of fixed financial charges and high internal cash generation. - Well-established access to a range of financial markets and assured sources of alternate liquidity. |
The rating F1 (Highest Credit Quality) is the highest commercial rating assigned by Fitch Inc. Paper rated F1 is regarded as having the strongest capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. The rating F2 (Good Credit Quality) is the second highest commercial paper rating assigned by Fitch Inc., which reflects a satisfactory capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, but the margin of safety is not as great as in the case of the higher ratings.
The rating TBW-1 by Thomson BankWatch ("Thomson") indicates a very high likelihood that principal and interest will be paid on a timely basis.
DESCRIPTION OF MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
Moody's highest rating for state and municipal and other short-term notes is MIG-1 and VMIG-l. Short-term municipal securities rated MIG-1 or VMIG-1 are of the best quality. They have strong protection from established cash flows, superior liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing or both. Short-term municipal securities rated MIG-2 or VMIG-2 are of high quality. Margins of protection are ample although not so large as in the MIG-I/VMIG-2 group.
An S&P note rating reflects the liquidity concerns and market access risks unique to notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes maturing beyond three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. The following criteria will be used in making that assessment:
- Amortization Schedule - the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note, and
- Source of Payment - the more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note.
S&P note rating symbols are as follows:
SP-1 Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Those issues determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay a debt service is given a plus (+) designation. SP-2 Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the votes. |
DESCRIPTION OF CORPORATE BOND RATINGS
S&P
Bonds rated AAA have the highest rating S&P assigns to a debt obligation. Such a rating indicates an extremely strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Bonds rated AA also qualify as high-quality debt obligations. Capacity to pay principal and interest is very strong, and in the majority of instances they differ from AAA issues only in small degree. Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for debt in this category than in higher rated categories. Debt rated BB and B is regarded as having predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions. Debt rated BB has less near-term vulnerability to default than other speculative grade debt. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions that could lead to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BBB- rating. Debt rate B has greater vulnerability to default but presently has the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions would likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay principal. The B rating category also is used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
MOODY'S
Bonds that are rated Aaa by Moody's are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a large, or an exceptionally stable, margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues. Bonds rated Aa by Moody's are judged by Moody's to be of high quality by all standards. Together with bonds rated Aaa, they comprise what are generally known as high-grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements may
be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present that make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than the Aaa securities. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper-medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium-grade obligations (I.E., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured). Interest payments and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well-assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Moody's bond ratings, where specified, are applied to financial contracts, senior bank obligations and insurance company senior policyholder and claims obligations with an original maturity in excess of one-year. Obligations relying upon support mechanisms such as letters-of-credit and bonds of indemnity are excluded unless explicitly rated.
Obligations of a branch of a bank are considered to be domiciled in the country in which the branch is located. Unless noted as an exception, Moody's rating on a bank's ability to repay senior obligations extends only to branches located in countries which carry a Moody's sovereign rating. Such branch obligations are rated at the lower of the bank's rating or Moody's sovereign rating for the bank deposits for the country in which the branch is located.
When the currency in which an obligation is denominated is not the same as the currency of the country in which the obligation is domiciled, Moody's ratings do not incorporate an opinion as to whether payment of the obligation will be affected by the actions of the government controlling the currency of denomination. In addition, risk associated with bilateral conflicts between an investor's home country and either the issuer's home country or the country where an issuer branch is located are not incorporated into Moody's ratings.
Moody's makes no representation that rated bank obligations or insurance company obligations are exempt from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 or issued in conformity with any other applicable law or regulation. Nor does Moody's represent that any specific bank or insurance company obligation is legally enforceable or is a valid senior obligation of a rated issuer.
Moody's ratings are opinions, not recommendations to buy or sell, and their accuracy is not guaranteed. A rating should be weighed solely as one factor in an investment decision and you should make your own study and evaluation of any issuer whose securities or debt obligations you consider buying or selling.
FITCH INC. ("FITCH")
Bonds rated AAA by Fitch are judged by Fitch to be strictly high grade, broadly marketable, suitable for investment by trustees and fiduciary institutions liable to but slight market fluctuation other than through changes in the money rate. The prime feature of an AAA bond is a showing of earnings several times or many times interest requirements, with such stability of applicable earnings that safety is beyond reasonable question whatever changes occur in conditions. Bonds rated AA by Fitch are judged by Fitch to be of safety virtually beyond question and are readily salable, whose merits are not unlike those of the AAA class, but whose margin of
safety is less strikingly broad. The issue may be the obligation of a small company, strongly secured but influenced as to rating by the lesser financial power of the enterprise and more local type market.
Bonds rated A are considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
Bonds rated BBB are considered to be investment grade and of satisfactory credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances, however, are more likely to have adverse impact on these bonds, and therefore impair timely payment. The likelihood that the ratings of these bonds will fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with higher ratings. Bonds rated BB are considered speculative. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal may be affected over time by adverse economic changes. However, business and financial alternatives can be identified which could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt service requirements. Bonds rated B are considered highly speculative. While bonds in this class are currently meeting debt service requirements, the probability of continued timely payment of principal and interest reflects the obligor's limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic activity throughout the life of the issue.
THOMSON
Bonds rated AAA by Thomson BankWatch indicate that the ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis is extremely high. Bonds rated AA indicate a very strong ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis, with limited incremental risk compared to issues rated in the highest category. Bonds rated A indicate the ability to repay principal and interest is strong. Issues rated A could be more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings.
Bonds rated BBB (the lowest investment-grade category) indicate an acceptable capacity to repay principal and interest. Issues rated "BBB" are, however, more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings. While not investment grade, the BB rating suggests that the likelihood of default is considerably less than for lower-rated issues. However, there are significant uncertainties that could affect the ability to adequately service debt obligations. Issues rated B show a higher degree of uncertainty and therefore greater likelihood of default than higher-rated issues. Adverse developments could negatively affect the payment of interest and principal on a timely basis.
APPENDIX B
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
I. PROXY VOTING POLICIES
GRT is generally authorized by its clients to vote proxies relating to the companies whose securities are held in the portfolios of the accounts managed by GRT. GRT manages assets solely in the best interest of the clients and votes proxies in a manner which is consistent with those interests, and which will add to, or maintain, the value to the clients' investments. Clients, however, can assume direct responsibility for voting the securities in their own portfolios if desired.
In voting proxies, GRT considers those factors relating to the proposal that may affect the value of the security and uses information from a variety of sources. Relevant information may be obtained from GRT's portfolio managers, analysts, and other personnel, from the management of the company or others soliciting the vote, and/or from proxy research services. Where the same security is held in multiple accounts, GRT will ordinarily vote the proxies on those securities in the same manner for all the accounts. However, GRT may vote identical securities differently for particular accounts because of differences in the objectives and strategies of the accounts.
GRT may also refrain from voting a proxy if that would be in the best interests of the client account. For example, GRT may determine that any benefit the client might gain from voting a proxy would be outweighed by the direct or indirect costs of casting the vote. The benefit may be elusive because of, for example, the substantial amount of out-of-pocket expense or staff time required to research and evaluate the proposal properly. Where appropriate, GRT may also abstain on a proposal because of the ambiguity of the effect of the proposal. GRT may similarly choose not to vote where a client account has been terminated or where the security is no longer held in the account.
GRT's proxy voting policies may be amended from time to time without prior notice to clients. GRT feels that it must retain wide flexibility to adapt its proxy voting policies as appropriate to best fit the interests of its client accounts and the changing investment environment.
II. PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES
GRT does not have any fixed policies on how to vote on given proxy proposals. GRT believes that each proposal must be considered in light of the company's particular context. Each proxy proposal is subject to evaluation individually, based on a consideration of the facts and circumstances that bear on the proposal at the time. Thus, what may ordinarily be a routine matter in most instances, can be an unusual matter in differing circumstances, and may therefore require a different approach to voting on the matter for a given company.
GRT may delegate authority to an independent proxy voting agent to perform various proxy voting functions. At the present time, GRT utilizes the services of such a firm to conduct research, make voting recommendations and cast ballots with respect to the portfolio securities in GRT's managed accounts. The service provider has developed a sophisticated methodology for making recommendations on particular voting issues based on its analysis of numerous companies and industries over the years. The service provider continuously refines its approach and modifies its recommendations as appropriate in light of changes in the business environment. In most instances, votes will be cast in accordance with the service provider's recommendations. As importantly noted however, GRT may instruct the service provider to vote contrary to, or otherwise differently from, the service provider's recommendation. In addition to the research and recommendations, the service provider performs related record keeping and administrative functions.
The current service provider is Risk Metric/Institutional Shareholder Services ("RM/ISS"). GRT has adopted the proxy voting policies developed by RM/ISS for use at the present time. RM/ISS proxy voting policies include:
A. MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS
Proposals introduced by company management will generally be voted in
accordance with management's recommendations on the following types of routine
management proposals: Election of Directors (uncontested), Approval of
Independent Auditors, Executive Compensation Plans, Routine Corporate
Structure, Share Issuance, Increases in Capital or Par Value, and Share
Repurchase Plans.
B. SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
At times shareholders will submit proposals that generally seek to change some
aspect of a company's corporate governance structure or its business
operations. Proxies will generally be voted against proposals motivated by
political, ethical or social concerns. Proxies will generally be voted with
management in opposition to shareholder resolutions which could negatively
impact the company's ability to conduct business, and voted in support of the
shareholder initiatives concerning the maximization of shareholder value.
C. OTHER (NON-ROUTINE) PROPOSALS
Non-routine proposals, introduced by company management or shareholders, are
examined on a case-by-case basis. These are often more complex structural
changes to a company such as a reorganization or merger, in which a variety of
issues are considered including the benefits to shareholders' existing and
future earnings, preservation of shareholder value, financial terms of the
transaction and the strategic rationale for the proposal. The following are
examples of proposals that are voted on a case-by-case basis:
Reorganizations/Restructurings, Amendments to governing documents,
Non-Executive Director Compensation Proposals (cash and share based
components), Increasing Borrowing Powers, and Debt Issuance Requests.
III. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
Occasions may arise where the voting of specific proxies may present an actual or perceived conflict of interest between GRT, as the investment manager, and its clients. Hypothetically, potential conflict situations could arise where GRT provides administrative or advisory services to a client, such as a hedge fund, and an investor in the hedge fund is a company, or a person associated with a company that is soliciting a proxy. Similarly, GRT may use the goods or services or a company, such as a securities broker, that may be soliciting proxies on securities it has issued and which are held in client accounts. In addition, a Managing Director or other investment personnel could have a personal or material business relationship with the participants in a proxy contest, or with the directors of, or candidates for, a company board.
While there may be potential appearances of conflicts of interest that could conceivably arise, GRT seeks to avoid even the appearance of impropriety and believes that it is unlikely that any actual, material conflicts will in fact arise. GRT's Managing Directors and investment personnel must advise the Proxy Team (described below under "Administration") and the Proxy Team must advise the Managing Directors, if they are aware of any actual or potential conflicts of interest that may exist with regard to how proxies are to be voted in respect of any portfolio companies. The Proxy Team will give no weight to any relationships with those companies or persons soliciting proxies and will vote proxies solely on the basis of the best interests of the relevant client account. Any individual at GRT with a potential conflict may not participate in any aspect of GRT's decision making in determining how the subject proxy is voted.
As described above, GRT uses an independent proxy voting service to provide research, voting recommendations and other services. The service provider performs similar services for many other financial institutions in addition to GRT. In doing its analysis and formulating its recommendations, the service provider acts without regard or
likely knowledge of any specific conflicts that may exist between an issuer and GRT. Such use of an independent service and reliance on its separate research provides further insulation from, and protection against, any conflicts that an issuer and GRT may have.
IV. ADMINISTRATION
A. PROXY TEAM
The Managing Directors of GRT have appointed a Proxy Team to be responsible for voting on proposals and to manage the proxy voting process and the maintenance of appropriate records. The Proxy Team has full discretion to vote proxies for GRT's managed accounts and to enlist any outside service provider for assistance. The Proxy Team and the Managing Directors consult from time to time as they deem appropriate to review broad policy matters or to determine what action to take on specific proxy proposals.
B. RECORD KEEPING
GRT maintains the proxy voting records required under applicable regulations:
1. GRT maintains copies of these Proxy Voting Policies.
2. GRT retains copies of the proxy statements received regarding client securities or may rely on a third party to retain copies, or may rely on obtaining copies through the SEC's EDGAR system.
3. GRT maintains a record of each vote it casts on behalf of a client, or it may rely on a third party to maintain the record.
4. GRT retains a copy of any document GRT creates that is material to a proxy voting decision it makes or that memorializes the basis of the decision.
5. GRT retains a copy of each written client request for information on how GRT voted proxies on behalf of that client. GRT also keeps a copy of any written response by it to any written or oral request for such information.
C. DISCLOSURE
GRT will describe its proxy voting policies to its clients in its Form ADV Part II or by similar means. Clients may obtain a copy of these Proxy Voting Policies and/or information on how GRT voted such client's shares by contacting GRT.
Revised: 2008-02-07
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
REAVES SELECT RESEARCH FUND
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS SHARES (RSRFX)
INVESTOR CLASS SHARES (RSRAX)
A SERIES OF THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
NOVEMBER 29, 2010
INVESTMENT ADVISER:
W.H. REAVES & CO., INC.
This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") is not a prospectus. This SAI is intended to provide additional information regarding the activities and operations of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II (the "Trust") and the Reaves Select Research Fund (the "Fund"). This SAI is incorporated by reference into and should be read in conjunction with the Prospectuses dated November 29, 2010. Capitalized terms not defined herein are defined in the Prospectus. The Funds' financial statements and financial highlights including notes thereto, and the report of Ernst & Young LLP for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010 are contained in the 2010 Annual Report to Shareholders and are incorporated by reference into and are deemed to be part of this SAI. A copy of the Funds' 2010 Annual Report to Shareholders accompanies the delivery of this SAI. A Prospectus or Annual Report may be obtained by writing the Trust at P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, Missouri 64121-9009 or calling toll-free 1-866-342-7058.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
THE TRUST .................................................................. XX ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES ............ XX DESCRIPTION OF PERMITTED INVESTMENTS ....................................... XX INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS ..................................................... XX THE ADVISER ................................................................ XX THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS ..................................................... XX THE ADMINISTRATOR .......................................................... XX THE DISTRIBUTOR ............................................................ XX PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES ....................................... XX THE TRANSFER AGENT ......................................................... XX THE CUSTODIAN .............................................................. XX INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM .............................. XX LEGAL COUNSEL .............................................................. XX TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST ......................................... XX PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES ............................................ XX DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE ........................................... XX TAXES ...................................................................... XX FUND TRANSACTIONS .......................................................... XX PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS ......................................................... XX DESCRIPTION OF SHARES ...................................................... XX SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY ...................................................... XX LIMITATION OF TRUSTEES' LIABILITY .......................................... XX PROXY VOTING ............................................................... XX CODES OF ETHICS ............................................................ XX 5% AND 25% SHAREHOLDERS .................................................... XX APPENDIX A -- DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS ....................................... A-1 APPENDIX B -- PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ......................... B-1 November 29, 2010 [INSERT CODE] |
THE TRUST
GENERAL. The Fund is a separate series of the Trust. The Trust is an open-end investment management company established under Massachusetts law as a Massachusetts voluntary association (commonly known as a business trust) under a Declaration of Trust dated July 24, 1992, as amended and restated as of February 18, 2004 and August 10, 2004. Prior to August 10, 2004, the Trust's name was The Arbor Fund. The Declaration of Trust permits the Trust to offer separate series ("funds") of shares of beneficial interest ("shares"). The Trust reserves the right to create and issue shares of additional funds. Each fund is a separate mutual fund, and each share of each fund represents an equal proportionate interest in that fund. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any fund and all assets of such fund belong solely to that fund and would be subject to liabilities related thereto. The Fund pays its: (i) operating expenses, including fees of its service providers, expenses of preparing prospectuses, proxy solicitation material and reports to shareholders, costs of custodial services and registering its shares under federal and state securities laws, pricing and insurance expenses, brokerage costs, interest charges, taxes and organization expenses; and (ii) pro rata share of the Fund's other expenses, including audit and legal expenses. Expenses attributable to a specific fund shall be payable solely out of the assets of that fund. Expenses not attributable to a specific fund are allocated across all of the funds on the basis of relative net assets. The other funds of the Trust are described in one or more separate Statements of Additional Information.
DESCRIPTION OF MULTIPLE CLASSES OF SHARES. The Trust is authorized to offer shares of the Fund in Institutional and Investor Class Shares. The different classes provide for variations in certain distribution expenses and in the minimum initial investment requirements. Minimum investment requirements and investor eligibility are described in the prospectus. The Trust reserves the right to create and issue additional classes of shares. For more information on shareholder servicing and distribution expenses, see "The Distributor" in the SAI.
VOTING RIGHTS. Each shareholder of record is entitled to one vote for each share held on the record date for the meeting. The Fund will vote separately on matters relating solely to it. As a Massachusetts voluntary association, the Trust is not required, and does not intend, to hold annual meetings of shareholders. Approval of shareholders will be sought, however, for certain changes in the operation of the Trust and for the election of Trustees under certain circumstances. Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees have the power to liquidate the Fund without shareholder approval. While the Trustees have no present intention of exercising this power, they may do so if the Fund fails to reach a viable size within a reasonable amount of time or for such other reasons as may be determined by the Board of Trustees.
In addition, a Trustee may be removed by the remaining Trustees or by shareholders at a special meeting called upon written request of shareholders owning at least 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust. In the event that such a meeting is requested, the Trust will provide appropriate assistance and information to the shareholders requesting the meeting.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
The Fund's investment objectives and principal investment strategies are described in the prospectus. The following information supplements, and should be read in conjunction with, the Prospectus. For a description of certain permitted investments discussed below, see "Description of Permitted Investments" in this SAI.
REAVES SELECT RESEARCH FUND. The Fund seeks total return from income and capital growth. This goal is fundamental, and may not be changed without the consent of shareholders. There can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to achieve its investment objective. The Fund is classified as a "diversified" investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act").
As its principal investment strategy, the Fund invests primarily in securities of domestic and foreign companies involved to a significant extent in the utilities and energy industries as described in the Prospectus.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATE. Portfolio turnover rate is defined under U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") rules as the value of the securities purchased or securities sold, excluding all securities whose maturities at the time of acquisition were one-year or less, divided by the average monthly value of such securities owned during the year. Based on this definition, instruments with remaining maturities of less than one-year are excluded from the calculation of the portfolio
turnover rate. Instruments excluded from the calculation of portfolio turnover generally would include the futures contracts in which the Fund may invest since such contracts generally have remaining maturities of less than one-year. The Fund may at times hold investments in other short-term instruments, such as repurchase agreements, which are excluded for purposes of computing portfolio turnover. For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, the portfolio turnover rates for the Fund were as follows:
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RATES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FUND 2009 2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Reaves Select Research Fund 72% XX% -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
DESCRIPTION OF PERMITTED INVESTMENTS
The following are descriptions of the permitted investments and investment practices and the associated risk factors. The Fund will only invest in any of the following instruments or engage in any of the following investment practices if such investment or activity is consistent with the Fund's investment objective and permitted by the Fund's stated investment policies.
AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS ("ADRS"). ADRs as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") and Global Depositary Receipts ("GDRs"), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. The underlying shares are held in trust by a custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home country. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. However, ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
Investments in the securities of foreign issuers may subject the Fund to investment risks that differ in some respects from those related to investments in securities of U.S. issuers. Such risks include future adverse political and economic developments, possible imposition of withholding taxes on income, possible seizure, nationalization or expropriation of foreign deposits, possible establishment of exchange controls or taxation at the source or greater fluctuation in value due to changes in exchange rates. Foreign issuers of securities often engage in business practices different from those of domestic issuers of similar securities, and there may be less information publicly available about foreign issuers. In addition, foreign issuers are, generally speaking, subject to less government supervision and regulation and different accounting treatment than are those in the United States.
EQUITY SECURITIES. Equity securities represent ownership interests in a company or partnership and consist of common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to acquire common stock, securities convertible into common stock, and investments in master limited partnerships. Investments in equity securities in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. Fluctuations in the value of equity securities in which the Fund invests will cause the net asset value of the Fund to fluctuate. The U.S. stock market tends to be cyclical, with periods when stock prices generally rise and periods when stock prices generally decline. The Fund purchases equity securities traded in the U.S. on registered exchanges or the over-the-counter market. Equity securities are described in more detail below:
o COMMON STOCK. Common stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock take precedence over the claims of those who own common stock.
o PREFERRED STOCK. Preferred stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer that pays dividends at a specified rate and that has precedence over common stock in the payment of dividends. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds take precedence over the claims of those who own preferred and common stock.
o WARRANTS. Warrants are instruments that entitle the holder to buy an equity security at a specific price for a specific period
of time. Changes in the value of a warrant do not necessarily correspond to changes in the value of its underlying security. The price of a warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital appreciation as well as capital loss. Warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the underlying security and do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuing company. A warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date. These factors can make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.
o CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES. Convertible securities are bonds, debentures, notes, preferred stocks or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio. A convertible security may also be called for redemption or conversion by the issuer after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including a specified price) established upon issue. If a convertible security held by the Fund is called for redemption or conversion, the Fund could be required to tender it for redemption, convert it into the underlying common stock, or sell it to a third party.
Convertible securities generally have less potential for gain or loss than common stocks. Convertible securities generally provide yields higher than the underlying common stocks, but generally lower than comparable non-convertible securities. Because of this higher yield, convertible securities generally sell at a price above their "conversion value," which is the current market value of the stock to be received upon conversion. The difference between this conversion value and the price of convertible securities will vary over time depending on changes in the value of the underlying common stocks and interest rates. When the underlying common stocks decline in value, convertible securities will tend not to decline to the same extent because of the interest or dividend payments and the repayment of principal at maturity for certain types of convertible securities. However, securities that are convertible other than at the option of the holder generally do not limit the potential for loss to the same extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. When the underlying common stocks rise in value, the value of convertible securities may also be expected to increase. At the same time, however, the difference between the market value of convertible securities and their conversion value will narrow, which means that the value of convertible securities will generally not increase to the same extent as the value of the underlying common stocks. Because convertible securities may also be interest-rate sensitive, their value may increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. Convertible securities are also subject to credit risk, and are often lower-quality securities.
o SMALL AND MEDIUM CAPITALIZATION ISSUERS. Investing in equity securities of small and medium capitalization companies often involves greater risk than is customarily associated with investments in larger capitalization companies. This increased risk may be due to the greater business risks of smaller size, limited markets and financial resources, narrow product lines and frequent lack of depth of management. The securities of smaller companies are often traded in the over- the-counter market and even if listed on a national securities exchange may not be traded in volumes typical for that exchange. Consequently, the securities of smaller companies are less likely to be liquid, may have limited market stability, and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than securities of larger, more established growth companies or the market averages in general.
o MASTER LIMITED PARTNERSHIPS ("MLPS"). MLPs are limited partnerships in which the ownership units are publicly traded. MLP units are registered with the SEC and are freely traded on a securities exchange or in the over-the-counter market. MLPs often own several properties or businesses (or own interests) that are related to oil and gas industries, but they also may finance research and development and other projects. Generally, a MLP is operated under the supervision of one or more managing general partners. Limited partners are not involved in the day-to-day management of the partnership.
The risks of investing in a MLP are generally those involved in investing in a partnership as opposed to a corporation. For example, state law governing partnerships is often less restrictive than state law governing corporations. Accordingly, there may be fewer protections afforded investors in a MLP than investors in a corporation. Additional risks involved with investing in a MLP are risks associated with the specific industry or industries in which the partnership invests, such as the risks of investing in oil and gas industries.
FOREIGN SECURITIES. Foreign securities include equity securities of foreign entities, obligations of foreign branches of U.S. banks and of foreign banks, including, without limitation, European Certificates of Deposit, European Time Deposits, European Bankers' Acceptances, Canadian Time Deposits, Europaper and Yankee Certificates of Deposit, and investments in Canadian
Commercial Paper and foreign securities. These instruments have investment risks that differ in some respects from those related to investments in obligations of U.S. domestic issuers. Such risks include future adverse political and economic developments, the possible imposition of withholding taxes on interest or other income, possible seizure, nationalization, or expropriation of foreign deposits, the possible establishment of exchange controls or taxation at the source, greater fluctuations in value due to changes in exchange rates, or the adoption of other foreign governmental restrictions which might adversely affect the payment of principal and interest on such obligations. Such investments may also entail higher custodial fees and sales commissions than domestic investments. Foreign issuers of securities or obligations are often subject to accounting treatment and engage in business practices different from those respecting domestic issuers of similar securities or obligations. Foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks may be subject to less stringent reserve requirements than those applicable to domestic branches of U.S. banks.
MONEY MARKET SECURITIES. Money market securities include: short-term U.S. government securities; custodial receipts evidencing separately traded interest and principal components of securities issued by the U.S. Treasury; commercial paper rated in the highest short-term rating category by a nationally recognized statistical ratings organization ("NRSRO"), such as Standard & Poor's or Moody's, or determined by the Adviser to be of comparable quality at the time of purchase; short-term bank obligations (certificates of deposit, time deposits and bankers' acceptances) of U.S. commercial banks with assets of at least $1 billion as of the end of their most recent fiscal year; and repurchase agreements involving such securities. Each of these money market securities are described below. For a description of ratings, see "Appendix A -- Ratings" to this SAI.
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES - The Fund may invest in U.S. government securities. Securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities include U.S. Treasury securities, which are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury and which differ only in their interest rates, maturities, and times of issuance. U.S. Treasury bills have initial maturities of one-year or less; U.S. Treasury notes have initial maturities of one to ten years; and U.S. Treasury bonds generally have initial maturities of greater than ten years. Certain U.S. government securities are issued or guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government including, but not limited to, obligations of U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities such as Fannie Mae, the Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae"), the Small Business Administration, the Federal Farm Credit Administration, the Federal Home Loan Banks, Banks for Cooperatives (including the Central Bank for Cooperatives), the Federal Land Banks, the Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the Commodity Credit Corporation, the Federal Financing Bank, the Student Loan Marketing Association, the National Credit Union Administration and the Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac).
Some obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies and instrumentalities, including, for example, Ginnie Mae pass-through certificates, are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury. Other obligations issued by or guaranteed by federal agencies, such as those securities issued by Fannie Mae, are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to purchase certain obligations of the federal agency, while other obligations issued by or guaranteed by federal agencies, such as those of the Federal Home Loan Banks, are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, while the U.S. government provides financial support to such U.S. government-sponsored federal agencies, no assurance can be given that the U.S. government will always do so, since the U.S. government is not so obligated by law. U.S. Treasury notes and bonds typically pay coupon interest semi-annually and repay the principal at maturity.
On September 7, 2008, the U.S. Treasury announced a federal takeover of Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac, placing the two federal instrumentalities in conservatorship. Under the takeover, the U.S. Treasury agreed to acquire $1 billion of senior preferred stock of each instrumentality and obtained warrants for the purchase of common stock of each instrumentality (the "Senior Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement" or "Agreement"). Under the Agreement, the U.S. Treasury pledged to provide up to $200 billion per instrumentality as needed, including the contribution of cash capital to the instrumentalities in the event their liabilities exceed their assets. This was intended to ensure that the instrumentalities maintain a positive net worth and meet their financial obligations, preventing mandatory triggering of receivership. On December 24, 2009, the U.S. Treasury announced that it was amending the Agreement to allow the $200 billion cap on the U.S. Treasury's funding commitment to increase as necessary to accommodate any cumulative reduction in net worth over the next three years. As a result of this Agreement, the investments of holders, including the Fund, of mortgage-backed securities and other obligations issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are protected.
o U.S. TREASURY OBLIGATIONS. U.S. Treasury obligations consist of bills, notes and bonds issued by the U.S. Treasury and separately traded interest and principal component parts of such obligations that are transferable through the federal book-entry system known as Separately Traded Registered Interest and Principal Securities ("STRIPS") and Treasury Receipts ("TRs").
o RECEIPTS. Interests in separately traded interest and principal component parts of U.S. government obligations that are issued by banks or brokerage firms and are created by depositing U.S. government obligations into a special account at a custodian bank. The custodian holds the interest and principal payments for the benefit of the registered owners of the certificates or receipts. The custodian arranges for the issuance of the certificates or receipts evidencing ownership and maintains the register. TRs and STRIPS are interests in accounts sponsored by the U.S. Treasury. Receipts are sold as zero coupon securities.
o U.S. GOVERNMENT ZERO COUPON SECURITIES. STRIPS and receipts are sold as zero coupon securities, that is, fixed income securities that have been stripped of their unmatured interest coupons. Zero coupon securities are sold at a (usually substantial) discount and redeemed at face value at their maturity date without interim cash payments of interest or principal. The amount of this discount is accreted over the life of the security, and the accretion constitutes the income earned on the security for both accounting and tax purposes. Because of these features, the market prices of zero coupon securities are generally more volatile than the market prices of securities that have similar maturity but that pay interest periodically. Zero coupon securities are likely to respond to a greater degree to interest rate changes than are non-zero coupon securities with similar maturity and credit qualities.
o U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCIES. Some obligations issued or guaranteed by agencies of the U.S. government are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury, others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the Treasury, while still others are supported only by the credit of the instrumentality. Guarantees of principal by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government may be a guarantee of payment at the maturity of the obligation so that in the event of a default prior to maturity there might not be a market and thus no means of realizing on the obligation prior to maturity. Guarantees as to the timely payment of principal and interest do not extend to the value or yield of these securities nor to the value of the Fund's shares.
COMMERCIAL PAPER. Commercial paper is the term used to designate unsecured short-term promissory notes issued by corporations and other entities. Maturities on these issues vary from a few to 270 days.
OBLIGATIONS OF DOMESTIC BANKS, FOREIGN BANKS AND FOREIGN BRANCHES OF U.S. BANKS. The Fund may invest in obligations issued by banks and other savings institutions. Investments in bank obligations include obligations of domestic branches of foreign banks and foreign branches of domestic banks. Such investments in domestic branches of foreign banks and foreign branches of domestic banks may involve risks that are different from investments in securities of domestic branches of U.S. banks. These risks may include future unfavorable political and economic developments, possible withholding taxes on interest income, seizure or nationalization of foreign deposits, currency controls, interest limitations, or other governmental restrictions which might affect the payment of principal or interest on the securities held by the Fund. Additionally, these institutions may be subject to less stringent reserve requirements and to different accounting, auditing, reporting and recordkeeping requirements than those applicable to domestic branches of U.S. banks. Bank obligations include the following:
o BANKERS' ACCEPTANCES. Bankers' acceptances are bills of exchange or time drafts drawn on and accepted by a commercial bank. Corporations use bankers' acceptances to finance the shipment and storage of goods and to furnish dollar exchange. Maturities are generally six months or less.
o CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT. Certificates of deposit are interest-bearing instruments with a specific maturity. They are issued by banks and savings and loan institutions in exchange for the deposit of funds and normally can be traded in the secondary market prior to maturity. Certificates of deposit with penalties for early withdrawal will be considered illiquid.
o TIME DEPOSITS. Time deposits are non-negotiable receipts issued by a bank in exchange for the deposit of funds. Like a certificate of deposit, it earns a specified rate of interest over a definite period of time; however, it cannot be traded in the secondary market. Time deposits with a withdrawal penalty or that mature in more than seven days are considered to be illiquid securities.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with
financial institutions. A repurchase agreement is an agreement under which a
fund acquires a fixed income security (generally a security issued by the U.S.
government or an agency thereof, a banker's acceptance, or a certificate of
deposit) from a commercial bank, broker, or dealer, and simultaneously agrees
to resell such security to the seller at an agreed upon price and date
(normally, the next business day). Because the security purchased constitutes
collateral for the repurchase obligation, a repurchase agreement may be
considered a loan that is collateralized by the security purchased. The
acquisition of a repurchase agreement may be deemed to be an acquisition of the
underlying securities as long as the obligation of the seller to repurchase the
securities is collateralized fully. The Fund follows certain procedures
designed to minimize the risks inherent in such agreements. These procedures
include effecting repurchase transactions only with creditworthy financial
institutions whose condition will be continually monitored by the Adviser. The
repurchase agreements entered into by the Fund will provide that the underlying
collateral at all times shall have a value at least equal to 102% of the resale
price stated in the agreement and consist only of securities permissible under
Section 101(47)(A)(i) of the Bankruptcy Code (the Adviser monitors compliance
with this requirement). Under all repurchase agreements entered into by the
Fund, the custodian or its agent must take possession of the underlying
collateral. In the event of a default or bankruptcy by a selling financial
institution, the Fund will seek to liquidate such collateral. However, the
exercising of the Fund's right to liquidate such collateral could involve
certain costs or delays and, to the extent that proceeds from any sale upon a
default of the obligation to repurchase were less than the repurchase price,
the Fund could suffer a loss. It is the current policy of the Fund, not to
invest in repurchase agreements that do not mature within seven days if any
such investment, together with any other illiquid assets held by that Fund,
amounts to more than 15% of the Fund's total assets. The investments of the
Fund in repurchase agreements, at times, may be substantial when, in the view
of the Adviser, liquidity or other considerations so warrant.
INVESTMENT COMPANY SHARES. The Fund may invest in shares of other investment companies, to the extent permitted by applicable law and subject to certain restrictions. These investment companies typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by the Fund. The Fund's purchase of such investment company securities results in the layering of expenses, such that shareholders would indirectly bear a proportionate share of the operating expenses of such investment companies, including advisory fees, in addition to paying the Fund's expenses. Unless an exception is available, Section 12(d)(1)(A) of the 1940 Act prohibits a fund from (i) acquiring more than 3% of the voting shares of any one investment company, (ii) investing more than 5% of its total assets in any one investment company, and (iii) investing more than 10% of its total assets in all investment companies combined, including its ETF investments.
For hedging or other purposes, the Fund may invest in investment companies that seek to track the composition and/or performance of specific indexes or portions of specific indexes. Certain of these investment companies, known as exchange-traded funds, are traded on a securities exchange. (See "Exchange Traded Funds" above). The market prices of index-based investments will fluctuate in accordance with changes in the underlying portfolio securities of the investment company and also due to supply and demand of the investment company's shares on the exchange upon which the shares are traded. Index-based investments may not replicate or otherwise match the composition or performance of their specified index due to transaction costs, among other things.
Pursuant to orders issued by the SEC to each of certain iShares, Market Vectors, Vanguard, ProShares, PowerShares, Claymore, Direxion, Wisdom Tree, Rydex, First Trust and SPDR exchange-traded funds (collectively, the "ETFs") and procedures approved by the Board, the Funds may invest in the ETFs in excess of the 3% limit described above, provided that the Funds otherwise comply with the conditions of the SEC order, as it may be amended, and any other applicable investment limitations. Neither the ETFs nor their investment advisers make any representations regarding the advisability of investing in the ETFs.
SECURITIES LENDING. The Fund may lend portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other financial organizations that meet capital and other credit requirements or other criteria established by the Fund's Board of Trustees. These loans, if and when made, may not exceed 33 1/3% of the total asset value of the Fund (including the loan collateral). The Fund will not lend portfolio securities to its Adviser or its affiliates unless permissible under the 1940 Act and the rules and promulgations thereunder. Loans of portfolio securities will be fully collateralized by cash, letters of credit or U.S. government securities, and the collateral will be maintained in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities by marking to market daily. Any gain or loss in the market price of the securities loaned that might occur during the term of the loan would be for the account of the Fund.
The Fund may pay a part of the interest earned from the investment of collateral, or other fee, to an unaffiliated third party for acting as the Fund's securities lending agent.
By lending its securities, the Fund may increase its income by receiving payments from the borrower that reflect the amount of any interest or any dividends payable on the loaned securities as well as by either investing cash collateral received from the borrower in short-term instruments or obtaining a fee from the borrower when U.S. government securities or letters of credit are used as collateral. The Fund will adhere to the following conditions whenever its portfolio securities are loaned: (i) the Fund must receive at least 100% cash collateral or equivalent securities of the type discussed in the preceding paragraph from the borrower; (ii) the borrower must increase such collateral whenever the market value of the securities rises above the level of such collateral; (iii) the Fund must be able to terminate the loan on demand; (iv) the Fund must receive reasonable interest on the loan, as well as any dividends, interest or other distributions on the loaned securities and any increase in market value; (v) the Fund may pay only reasonable fees in connection with the loan (which fees may include fees payable to the lending agent, the borrower, the Fund's administrator and the custodian); and (vi) voting rights on the loaned securities may pass to the borrower, provided, however, that if a material event adversely affecting the investment occurs, the Fund must terminate the loan and regain the right to vote the securities. The Board has adopted procedures reasonably designed to ensure that the foregoing criteria will be met. Loan agreements involve certain risks in the event of default or insolvency of the borrower, including possible delays or restrictions upon the Fund's ability to recover the loaned securities or dispose of the collateral for the loan, which could give rise to loss because of adverse market action, expenses and/or delays in connection with the disposition of the underlying securities.
FUTURES AND OPTIONS ON FUTURES. Futures contracts provide for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified amount of a specific security at a specified future time and at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in exchange for a premium, to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price during the term of the option. The Fund will reduce the risk that it will be unable to close out a futures contract by only entering into futures contracts that are traded on a national futures exchange regulated by the Commodities Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"). The Fund may use futures contracts and related options for bona fide hedging; attempting to offset changes in the value of securities held or expected to be acquired or be disposed of; attempting to minimize fluctuations in foreign currencies; attempting to gain exposure to a particular market, index or instrument; or other risk management purposes. To the extent futures and/or options on futures are employed by the Fund, such use will be in accordance with Rule 4.5 of the Commodity Exchange Act ("CEA"). The Trust, on behalf of the Fund, has filed a notice of eligibility for exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" in accordance with Rule 4.5 and therefore, the Fund is not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool operator under the CEA.
An index futures contract is a bilateral agreement pursuant to which two parties agree to take or make delivery of an amount of cash equal to a specified dollar amount times the difference between the index value at the close of trading of the contract and the price at which the futures contract is originally struck. No physical delivery of the securities comprising the index is made; generally contracts are closed out prior to the expiration date of the contract.
When the Fund purchases or sells a futures contract, or sells an option thereon, the Fund is required to "cover" its position in order to limit leveraging and related risks. To cover its position, the Fund may segregate (and marked-to-market on a daily basis) cash or liquid securities that, when added to any amounts deposited with a futures commission merchant as margin, are equal to the market value of the futures contract or otherwise "cover" its position in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act or the rules and SEC interpretations thereunder. The segregated account functions as a practical limit on the amount of leverage which the Fund may undertake and on the potential increase in the speculative character of the Fund's outstanding portfolio securities. Additionally, such segregated accounts will generally assure the availability of adequate funds to meet the obligations of the Fund arising from such investment activities.
The Fund may also cover its long position in a futures contract by purchasing a put option on the same futures contract with a strike price (i.e., an exercise price) as high or higher than the price of the futures contract. In the alternative, if the strike price of the put is less than the price of the futures contract, the Fund will segregate cash or liquid securities equal in value to the difference between the strike price of the put and the price of the futures contract. The Fund may also cover its long position in a futures contract by taking a short position in the instruments underlying the futures contract, or by taking positions in
instruments with prices which are expected to move relatively consistently with the futures contract. The Fund may cover its short position in a futures contract by taking a long position in the instruments underlying the futures contracts, or by taking positions in instruments with prices which are expected to move relatively consistently with the futures contract.
The Fund may cover its sale of a call option on a futures contract by taking a long position in the underlying futures contract at a price less than or equal to the strike price of the call option. In the alternative, if the long position in the underlying futures contract is established at a price greater than the strike price of the written (sold) call, the Fund may segregate cash or liquid securities equal in value to the difference between the strike price of the call and the price of the futures contract. The Fund may also cover its sale of a call option by taking positions in instruments with prices which are expected to move relatively consistently with the call option. The Fund may cover its sale of a put option on a futures contract by taking a short position in the underlying futures contract at a price greater than or equal to the strike price of the put option, or, if the short position in the underlying futures contract is established at a price less than the strike price of the written put, the Fund may segregate cash or liquid securities equal in value to the difference between the strike price of the put and the price of the futures contract. The Fund may also cover its sale of a put option by taking positions in instruments with prices which are expected to move relatively consistently with the put option.
There are significant risks associated with the Fund's use of futures contracts and related options, including the following: (1) the success of a hedging strategy may depend on the Adviser's ability to predict movements in the prices of individual securities, fluctuations in markets and movements in interest rates; (2) there may be an imperfect or no correlation between the changes in market value of the securities held by the Fund and the prices of futures and options on futures; (3) there may not be a liquid secondary market for a futures contract or option; (4) trading restrictions or limitations may be imposed by an exchange; and (5) government regulations may restrict trading in futures contracts and options on futures. In addition, some strategies reduce the Fund's exposure to price fluctuations, while others tend to increase its market exposure.
OPTIONS. The Fund may purchase and write put and call options on indices and enter into related closing transactions. A put option on a security gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying security at any time during the option period. A call option on a security gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying security at any time during the option period. The premium paid to the writer is the consideration for undertaking the obligations under the option contract.
The Fund may purchase and write put and call options on foreign currencies (traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges or over-the-counter markets) to manage its exposure to exchange rates. Call options on foreign currency written by the Fund will be "covered," which means that the Fund will own an equal amount of the underlying foreign currency.
Put and call options on indices are similar to options on securities except that options on an index give the holder the right to receive, upon exercise of the option, an amount of cash if the closing level of the underlying index is greater than (or less than, in the case of puts) the exercise price of the option. This amount of cash is equal to the difference between the closing price of the index and the exercise price of the option, expressed in dollars multiplied by a specified number. Thus, unlike options on individual securities, all settlements are in cash, and gain or loss depends on price movements in the particular market represented by the index generally, rather than the price movements in individual securities.
All options written on indices or securities must be covered. When the Fund writes an option on a security, an index or a foreign currency, it will establish a segregated account containing cash or liquid securities in an amount at least equal to the market value of the option and will maintain the account while the option is open or will otherwise cover the transaction.
The Fund may trade put and call options on securities, securities indices and currencies, as the Adviser determines is appropriate in seeking the Fund's investment objective, and except as restricted by the Fund's investment limitations. See "Investment Limitations" in the SAI.
The initial purchase (sale) of an option contract is an "opening transaction." In order to close out an option position, the Fund may enter into a "closing transaction," which is simply the sale (purchase) of an option contract on the same security with the same exercise price and expiration date as the option contract originally opened. If the Fund is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to an option it has written, it will not be able to sell the underlying security until the option expires or the Fund delivers the security upon exercise.
The Fund may purchase put and call options on securities to protect against a decline in the market value of the securities in its portfolio or to anticipate an increase in the market value of securities that the Fund may seek to purchase in the future. The Fund purchasing put and call options pays a premium therefore. If price movements in the underlying securities are such that exercise of the options would not be profitable for the Fund, loss of the premium paid may be offset by an increase in the value of the Fund's securities or by a decrease in the cost of acquisition of securities by the Fund.
The Fund may write covered call options on securities as a means of increasing the yield on its assets and as a means of providing limited protection against decreases in its market value. When the Fund writes an option, if the underlying securities do not increase or decrease to a price level that would make the exercise of the option profitable to the holder thereof, the option generally will expire without being exercised and the Fund will realize as profit the premium received for such option. When a call option of which the Fund is the writer is exercised, the Fund will be required to sell the underlying securities to the option holder at the strike price, and will not participate in any increase in the price of such securities above the strike price. When a put option of which the Fund is the writer is exercised, the Fund will be required to purchase the underlying securities at a price in excess of the market value of such securities.
The Fund may purchase and write options on an exchange or over-the-counter. Over-the-counter options ("OTC options") differ from exchange-traded options in several respects. They are transacted directly with dealers and not with a clearing corporation, and therefore entail the risk of non-performance by the dealer. OTC options are available for a greater variety of securities and for a wider range of expiration dates and exercise prices than are available for exchange-traded options. Because OTC options are not traded on an exchange, pricing is done normally by reference to information from a market maker. It is the SEC's position that OTC options are generally illiquid.
The market value of an option generally reflects the market price of an underlying security. Other principal factors affecting market value include supply and demand, interest rates, the pricing volatility of the underlying security and the time remaining until the expiration date.
Risks associated with options transactions include: (1) the success of a
hedging strategy may depend on an ability to predict movements in the prices of
individual securities, fluctuations in markets and movements in interest rates;
(2) there may be an imperfect correlation between the movement in prices of
options and the securities underlying them; (3) there may not be a liquid
secondary market for options; and (4) while the Fund will receive a premium
when it writes covered call options, it may not participate fully in a rise in
the market value of the underlying security.
ILLIQUID SECURITIES. Illiquid securities are securities that cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business (within seven days) at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Because of their illiquid nature, illiquid securities must be priced at fair value as determined in good faith pursuant to procedures approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees. Despite such good faith efforts to determine fair value prices, the Fund's illiquid securities are subject to the risk that the security's fair value price may differ from the actual price which the Fund may ultimately realize upon its sale or disposition. Difficulty in selling illiquid securities may result in a loss or may be costly to the Fund. Under the supervision of the Trust's Board of Trustees, the Adviser determines the liquidity of the Fund's investments. In determining the liquidity of the Fund's investments, the Adviser may consider various factors, including: (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations; (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace; (3) dealer undertakings to make a market; and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security). The Fund will not hold more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities.
RESTRICTED SECURITIES -- Restricted securities are securities that may not be
sold freely to the public absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act of
1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") or an exemption from registration. As
consistent with the Fund's investment objectives, the Fund may invest in
Section 4(2) commercial paper. Section 4(2) commercial paper is issued in
reliance on an exemption from registration under Section 4(2) of the Act and is
generally sold to institutional investors who purchase for investment. Any
resale of such commercial paper must be in an exempt transaction, usually to an
institutional
investor through the issuer or investment dealers who make a market in such commercial paper. The Trust believes that Section 4(2) commercial paper is liquid to the extent it meets the criteria established by the Board of Trustees of the Trust. The Trust intends to treat such commercial paper as liquid and not subject to the investment limitations applicable to illiquid securities or restricted securities.
SHORT SALES -- As is consistent with the Fund's investment objectives, the Fund may engage in short sales that are either "uncovered" or "against the box." A short sale is "against the box" if at all times during which the short position is open, the Fund owns at least an equal amount of the securities or securities convertible into, or exchangeable without further consideration for, securities of the same issue as the securities that are sold short. A short sale against the box is a taxable transaction to the Fund with respect to the securities that are sold short.
Uncovered short sales are transactions under which the Fund sells a security it does not own. To complete such a transaction, the Fund must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund then is obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing the security at the market price at the time of the replacement. The price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the security was sold by the Fund. Until the security is replaced, the Fund is required to pay the lender amounts equal to any dividends or interest that accrue during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the Fund also may be required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the security sold. The proceeds of the short sale will be retained by the broker, to the extent necessary to meet margin requirements, until the short position is closed out.
Until the Fund closes its short position or replaces the borrowed security, the Fund will: (a) maintain a segregated account containing cash or liquid securities at such a level that (i) the amount deposited in the account plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will equal the current value of the security sold short; and (ii) the amount deposited in the segregated account plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral will not be less than the market value of the security at the time the security was sold short; or (b) otherwise cover the Fund's short position.
INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
FUNDAMENTAL POLICIES
In addition to the Fund's investment objective, the following are fundamental policies of the Fund that cannot be changed without the consent of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding shares. The phrase "majority of the outstanding shares" means the vote of (i) 67% or more of the Fund's shares present at a meeting, if more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding shares, whichever is less.
The Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities of an issuer that would cause the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification requirement for a diversified management company under the 1940 Act, the rules or regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
2. Concentrate investments in a particular industry or group of industries, as concentration is defined under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time, except that the Fund has adopted a non-fundamental policy to concentrate its investments in securities issued by companies in the utilities and energy industries.
3. Borrow money or issue senior securities (as defined under the 1940 Act), except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
4. Make loans, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
5. Purchase or sell commodities or real estate, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
6. Underwrite securities issued by other persons, except to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
The following descriptions of certain provisions of the 1940 Act may assist investors in understanding the above policies and restrictions:
DIVERSIFICATION. Under the 1940 Act, a diversified investment management company, as to 75% of its total assets, may not purchase securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agents or instrumentalities or securities of other investment companies) if, as a result, more than 5% of its total assets would be invested in the securities of such issuer, or more than 10% of the issuer's outstanding voting securities would be held by the fund.
CONCENTRATION. The SEC has defined concentration as investing 25% or more of an investment company's total assets in an industry or group of industries, with certain exceptions.
BORROWING. The 1940 Act allows a fund to borrow from any bank (including pledging, mortgaging or hypothecating assets) in an amount up to 33 1/3% of its total assets (not including temporary borrowings not in excess of 5% of its total assets).
SENIOR SECURITIES. Senior securities may include any obligation or instrument issued by a fund evidencing indebtedness. The 1940 Act generally prohibits funds from issuing senior securities, although it does not treat certain transactions as senior securities, such as certain borrowings, short sales, reverse repurchase agreements, firm commitment agreements and standby commitments, with appropriate earmarking or segregation of assets to cover such obligation.
LENDING. Under the 1940 Act, a fund may only make loans if expressly permitted by its investment policies. The Fund's current investment policy on lending is as follows: the Fund may not make loans if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, except that the Fund may: (i) purchase or hold debt instruments in accordance with its investment objective and policies; (ii) enter into repurchase agreements; and (iii) engage in securities lending as described in its Statement of Additional Information.
UNDERWRITING. Under the 1940 Act, underwriting securities involves a fund purchasing securities directly from an issuer for the purpose of selling (distributing) them or participating in any such activity either directly or indirectly. Under the 1940 Act, a diversified fund may not make any commitment as underwriter, if immediately thereafter the amount of its outstanding underwriting commitments, plus the value of its investments in securities of issuers (other than investment companies) of which it owns more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities, exceeds 25% of the value of its total assets.
COMMODITIES AND REAL ESTATE. The 1940 Act does not directly restrict an investment company's ability to invest in commodities or real estate, but does require that every investment company have a fundamental investment policy governing such investments. The Fund has adopted a fundamental policy that would permit direct investment in commodities or real estate. However, the Fund's current investment policy is as follows: the Fund will not purchase or sell real estate, physical commodities, or commodities contracts, except that the Fund may purchase: (i) marketable securities issued by companies which own or invest in real estate (including REITs), commodities, or commodities contracts; and (ii) commodities contracts relating to financial instruments, such as financial futures contracts and options on such contracts.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL POLICIES
The following investment limitations of the Fund are non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trust's Board of Trustees without shareholder approval. These non-fundamental policies are based upon the regulations currently set forth in the 1940 Act.
The Fund may not:
1. Purchase securities of any issuer (except securities of other investment companies, securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements involving such securities) if as a result more than 5% of the total assets of the Fund would be invested in the securities of such issuer; or (ii) acquire more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer. This restriction applies to 75% of the Fund's total assets.
2. Purchase any securities which would cause 25% or more of the total assets of the Fund to be invested in the securities of one or more issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry, provided that this limitation does not apply to investments in obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements involving such securities. This limitation does not apply to the Fund's investments in securities issued by companies in the utilities and/or energy industry.
3. Borrow money in an amount exceeding 33 1/3% of the value of its total assets, provided that, for purposes of this limitation, investment strategies that either obligate the Fund to purchase securities or require the Fund to segregate assets are not considered to be borrowing. Asset coverage of at least 300% is required for all borrowing, except where the Fund has borrowed money for temporary purposes in an amount not exceeding 5% of its total assets.
4. Make loans if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, except that the Fund may (i) purchase or hold debt instruments in accordance with its investment objective and policies; (ii) enter into repurchase agreements; and (iii) lend its securities.
5. Purchase or sell real estate, real estate limited partnership interests, physical commodities or commodities contracts except that the Fund may purchase (i) marketable securities issued by companies which own or invest in real estate (including real estate investment trusts), commodities or commodities contracts; and (ii) commodities contracts relating to financial instruments, such as financial futures contracts and options on such contracts.
6. Hold illiquid securities in an amount exceeding, in the aggregate, 15% of the Fund's net assets.
Except with respect to Fund policies concerning borrowing and illiquid securities, if a percentage restriction is adhered to at the time of an investment, a later increase or decrease in percentage resulting from changes in values or assets will not constitute a violation of such restriction. With respect to the limitation of illiquid securities, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause the Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of illiquid instruments back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable. With respect to the limitation on borrowing, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause the Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of borrowing back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable.
THE ADVISER
GENERAL. W.H. Reaves & Co., Inc.(the "Adviser") is a professional investment management firm registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The Adviser was established in 1961 and offers investment management services for institutions including corporations, foundations, endowments, government entities and high net worth individuals.
ADVISORY AGREEMENT WITH THE TRUST. The Trust and the Adviser have entered into an investment advisory agreement dated December 21, 2004, as amended (the "Advisory Agreement"). Under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser serves as the investment adviser and makes investment decisions for the Fund and continuously reviews, supervises and administers the investment program of the Fund, subject to the supervision of, and policies established by, the Trustees of the Trust. After the initial two year term, the continuance of the Advisory Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually: (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund; and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Advisory Agreement or "interested persons" of any party thereto, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Advisory Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment, and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or, with respect to the Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, on not less than 30-days' nor more than 60-days' written notice to the Adviser, or by the Adviser on 90-days' written notice to the Trust. The Advisory Agreement provides that the Adviser shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or
its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard of its obligations or duties thereunder. As used in the Advisory Agreement, the terms "majority of the outstanding voting securities," "interested persons" and "assignment" have the same meaning as such terms in the 1940 Act.
ADVISORY FEES PAID TO THE ADVISER. For its services under the Advisory Agreement, the Adviser is entitled to a fee, which is calculated daily and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.75% of the average daily net assets of the Fund. The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to reduce its fees and reimburse expenses in order to keep total annual fund operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, acquired fund fees and expenses, and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding 1.55% and 1.30% of the Fund's Investor Class Shares' and Institutional Shares' average daily net assets, respectively. The Adviser may discontinue all or a portion of its fee reductions or expense reimbursements at any time. If at any point it becomes unnecessary for the Adviser to reduce fees or make expense reimbursements, the Board may permit the Adviser to retain the difference between the total annual fund operating expenses and the Adviser's expense cap to recapture all or a portion of its prior fee reductions or expense limitation reimbursements made during the preceding three-year period during which the agreement was in place.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Fund paid the Adviser the following fees:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONTRACTUAL ADVISORY FEES PAID FEES WAIVED BY ADVISER TOTAL FEES PAID (AFTER WAIVERS) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $635,710 $387,189 $XX $0 $68,558 $XX $635,710 $318,631 $XX ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
THE PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
This section includes information about the Fund's portfolio managers, including information about other accounts they manage, the dollar range of Fund shares they own and how they are compensated.
COMPENSATION. The Adviser compensates the Fund's portfolio managers for their management of the Fund. Each of the Fund's portfolio managers' compensation consists of a cash base salary and a discretionary yearly bonus paid in cash. The Fund's portfolio managers also receive benefits standard for all of the Adviser's employees, including health care and participation in the Adviser's Employee Profit Sharing Trust ("PST"). Employee bonuses, including the bonuses for the portfolio managers of the Fund, are based on the profitability of the Adviser and not on the basis of any individual portfolio or account performance or assets under management. PST contributions are calculated only on each employee's base salary.
FUND SHARES OWNED BY PORTFOLIO MANAGERS. The Fund is required to show the dollar amount range of each portfolio manager's "beneficial ownership" of shares of the Fund as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal year. Dollar amount ranges disclosed are established by the SEC. "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the 1934 Act.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NAME DOLLAR RANGE OF FUND SHARES(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- William A. Ferer XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ronald J. Sorenson XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- (1) Valuation date is July 31, 2010. |
OTHER ACCOUNTS. In addition to the Fund, certain portfolio managers are responsible for the day-to-day management of certain other accounts, as listed below. The information below is provided as of July 31, 2010.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- REGISTERED OTHER POOLED INVESTMENT COMPANIES INVESTMENT VEHICLES OTHER ACCOUNTS ----------------------- ---------------------- ----------------------- NUMBER OF NUMBER OF NUMBER OF NAME ACCOUNTS TOTAL ASSETS ACCOUNTS TOTAL ASSETS ACCOUNTS TOTAL ASSETS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- William A. XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX Ferer -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ronald J. XX $XX XX $XX XX $XX Sorenson -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
CONFLICTS OF INTERESTS. The portfolio managers' management of "other accounts" may give rise to potential conflicts of interest in connection with their management of the Fund's investments, on the one hand, and the investments of the other accounts, on the other. The other accounts may have the same investment objective as the Fund. Therefore, a potential conflict of interest may arise as a result of the identical investment objectives, whereby the portfolio manager could favor one account over another. Another potential conflict could include the portfolio managers' knowledge about the size, timing and possible market impact of Fund trades, whereby a portfolio manager could use this information to the advantage of other accounts and to the disadvantage of the Fund. However, the Adviser has established policies and procedures to ensure that the purchase and sale of securities among all accounts it manages are fairly and equitably allocated.
THE ADMINISTRATOR
GENERAL. SEI Investments Global Funds Services (the "Administrator"), a Delaware statutory trust, has its principal business offices at One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. SEI Investments Management Corporation ("SIMC"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI Investments Company ("SEI Investments"), is the owner of all beneficial interest in the Administrator. SEI Investments and its subsidiaries and affiliates, including the Administrator, are leading providers of funds evaluation services, trust accounting systems, and brokerage and information services to financial institutions, institutional investors, and money managers. The Administrator and its affiliates also serve as administrator or sub-administrator to other mutual funds.
ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT WITH THE TRUST. The Trust and the Administrator have entered into an administration agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12, 2002 (the "Administration Agreement"). Under the Administration Agreement, the Administrator provides the Trust with administrative services, including regulatory reporting and all necessary office space, equipment, personnel and facilities. Pursuant to a schedule to the Administration Agreement, the Administrator also serves as the shareholder servicing agent for the Fund whereby the Administrator provides certain shareholder services to the Fund.
The Administration Agreement provides that the Administrator shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with the matters to which the Administration Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Administrator in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by it of its duties and obligations thereunder.
ADMINISTRATION FEES PAID. The Administrator provides the Trust with administrative services, including regulatory reporting and all necessary office space, equipment, personnel and facilities. For these administrative services, the Administrator is entitled to a fee, which is detailed below in the following schedule:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FEE (AS A PERCENTAGE OF FUND'S AVERAGE AGGREGATE AVERAGE ANNUAL ASSETS) DAILY NET ASSETS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.12% First $300 million -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.08% Next $200 million -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.06% Over $500 million -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
The foregoing fee is subject to a minimum annual fee of $112,500 for the period from December 21, 2009 through December 20, 2010 and a minimum annual fee of $125,000 for subsequent years, subject to the following:
o For each fund opened hereafter, the minimum annual fee will be increased by $125,000 and an additional one-time service charge of $10,000; and
o For each additional class of shares of the Reaves Select Research Fund established after the initial (1) class of shares per fund, the minimum annual fee will be increased by $12,000; and
o For each additional class of shares of a fund managed by the Adviser (other than the Reaves Select Research Fund), the minimum annual fee will be increased by $15,000.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Fund paid the Administrator the following fees:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONTRACTUAL FEES PAID FEES WAIVED BY ADMINISTRATOR TOTAL FEES PAID (AFTER WAIVERS) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $112,307 $112,000 $XX $0 $0 $XX $112,307 $112,000 $XX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
THE DISTRIBUTOR
GENERAL. SEI Investments Distribution Co. (the "Distributor"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI, and the Trust are parties to a distribution agreement dated May 31, 2000 ("Distribution Agreement"). The principal business address of the Distributor is One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456.
The continuance of the Distribution Agreement must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Trustees or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund and (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operations of the Distribution Agreement or any related agreement, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Distribution Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act), and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Trustees of the Trust or, with respect to the Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, upon not more than 60 days' written notice by either party. The Distribution Agreement provides that the Distributor shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard of its obligations or duties thereunder.
THE DISTRIBUTION PLAN. The Distribution Plan (the "Plan") provides that Investor Class Shares of the Fund pay the Distributor an annual fee of up to a maximum of 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the shares. Under the Plan, the Distributor may make payments pursuant to written agreements to financial institutions and intermediaries such as banks, savings and loan associations, insurance companies including, without limit, investment counselors, broker-dealers and the Distributor's affiliates and subsidiaries (collectively, "Agents") as compensation for services, reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with distribution assistance. The Trust intends to operate the Plan in accordance with its terms and with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (the "FINRA") rules concerning sales charges.
The Trust has adopted the Plan in accordance with the provisions of Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, which regulates circumstances under which an investment company may directly or indirectly bear expenses relating to the distribution of its shares. Continuance of the Plan must be approved annually by a majority of the Trustees of the Trust and by a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons (as defined by the 1940 Act) of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the Plan or in any agreement related to the Plan ("Qualified Trustees"). The Plan requires that quarterly written reports of amounts spent under the Plan and the purposes of such expenditures be furnished to and reviewed by the Trustees. The Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount that may be spent thereunder without approval by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund. All material amendments of the Plan will require approval by a majority of the Trustees of the Trust and of the Qualified Trustees.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Fund paid the Distributor the following distribution fees:
2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ------------------------------------------------------------------ $12,513 $7,537 $XX $0 $0 $XX ------------------------------------------------------------------ |
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
The Adviser and/or its affiliates, at their discretion, may make payments from their own resources and not from Fund assets to affiliated or unaffiliated brokers, dealers, banks (including bank trust departments), trust companies, registered investment advisers, financial planners, retirement plan administrators, insurance companies, and any other institution having a service, administration, or any similar arrangement with the Fund, its service providers or their respective affiliates, as incentives to help market and promote the Fund and/or in recognition of their distribution, marketing, administrative services, and/or processing support.
These additional payments may be made to financial intermediaries that sell Fund shares or provide services to the Fund, the Distributor or shareholders of the Fund through the financial intermediary's retail distribution channel and/or fund supermarkets. Payments may also be made through the financial intermediary's retirement, qualified tuition, fee-based advisory, wrap fee bank trust, or insurance (e.g., individual or group annuity) programs. These payments may include, but are not limited to, placing the Fund in a financial intermediary's retail distribution channel or on a preferred or recommended fund list; providing business or shareholder financial planning assistance; educating financial intermediary personnel about the Fund; providing access to sales and management representatives of the financial intermediary; promoting sales of Fund shares; providing marketing and educational support; maintaining share balances and/or for sub-accounting, administrative or shareholder transaction processing services. A financial intermediary may perform the services itself or may arrange with a third party to perform the services.
The Adviser and/or its affiliates may also make payments from their own resources to financial intermediaries for costs associated with the purchase of products or services used in connection with sales and marketing, participation in and/or presentation at conferences or seminars, sales or training programs, client and investor entertainment and other sponsored events. The costs and expenses associated with these efforts may include travel, lodging, sponsorship at educational seminars and conferences, entertainment and meals to the extent permitted by law.
Revenue sharing payments may be negotiated based on a variety of factors, including the level of sales, the amount of Fund assets attributable to investments in the Fund by financial intermediaries' customers, a flat fee or other measures as determined from time to time by the Adviser and/or its affiliates. A significant purpose of these payments is to increase the sales of Fund shares, which in turn may benefit the Adviser through increased fees as Fund assets grow.
THE TRANSFER AGENT
DST Systems, Inc., 333 W. 11(th) Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105 (the "Transfer Agent"), serves as the Fund's transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent under a transfer agency agreement with the Trust.
THE CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank National Association, 800 Nicollett Mall, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402-4302 (the "Custodian"), acts as custodian of the Fund. The Custodian holds cash, securities and other assets of the Fund as required by the 1940 Act.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Ernst & Young LLP, Two Commerce Square, 2001 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, serves as independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund. The financial statements and notes thereto incorporated by reference have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, as indicated in their report with respect thereto, and are incorporated by reference in reliance on the authority of their report as experts in accounting and auditing.
LEGAL COUNSEL
Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, 1701 Market Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-2921, serves as legal counsel to the Trust.
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST
BOARD RESPONSIBILITIES. The management and affairs of the Trust and its series, including the Funds described in this SAI, are overseen by the Trustees. The Board has approved contracts, as described above, under which certain companies provide essential management services to the Trust.
Like most mutual funds, the day-to-day business of the Trust, including the management of risk, is performed by third party service providers, such as the Adviser, Distributor and Administrator. The Trustees are responsible for overseeing the Trust's service providers and, thus, have oversight responsibility with respect to risk management performed by those service providers. Risk management seeks to identify and address risks, i.e., events or circumstances that could have material adverse effects on the business, operations, shareholder services, investment performance or reputation of the Funds. The Funds and their service providers employ a variety of processes, procedures and controls to identify various of those possible events or circumstances, to lessen the probability of their occurrence and/or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur. Each service provider is responsible for one or more discrete aspects of the Trust's business (e.g., the Adviser is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio investments) and, consequently, for managing the risks associated with that business. The Board has emphasized to the Funds' service providers the importance of maintaining vigorous risk management.
The Trustees' role in risk oversight begins before the inception of a Fund, at which time certain of the Fund's service providers present the Board with information concerning the investment objectives, strategies and risks of the Fund as well as proposed investment limitations for the Fund. Additionally, the Fund's Adviser provides the Board with an overview of, among other things, its investment philosophy, brokerage practices and compliance infrastructure. Thereafter, the Board continues its oversight function as various personnel, including the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer, as well as personnel of the Adviser and other service providers such as the Fund's independent accountants, make periodic reports to the Audit Committee or to the Board with respect to various aspects of risk management. The Board and the Audit Committee oversee efforts by management and service providers to manage risks to which the Funds may be exposed.
The Board is responsible for overseeing the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Funds by the Adviser and receives information about those services at its regular meetings. In addition, on an annual basis, in connection with its consideration of whether to renew the Advisory Agreement with the Adviser, the Board meets with the Adviser to review such services. Among other things, the Board regularly considers the Adviser's adherence to the Funds' investment restrictions and compliance with various Fund policies and procedures and with applicable securities regulations. The Board also reviews information about the Funds' investments, including, for example, portfolio holdings schedules and reports on the Adviser's use of derivatives in managing the Funds, if any, as well as reports on the Funds' investments in ETFs, if any.
The Trust's Chief Compliance Officer reports regularly to the Board to review and discuss compliance issues and Fund and Adviser risk assessments. At least annually, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer provides the Board with a report reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Trust's policies and procedures and those of its service providers, including the Adviser. The report addresses the operation of the policies and procedures of the Trust and each service provider since the date of the last report; any material changes to the policies and procedures since the date of the last report; any recommendations for material changes to the policies and procedures; and any material compliance matters since the date of the last report.
The Board receives reports from the Funds' service providers regarding operational risks and risks related to the valuation and liquidity of portfolio securities. The Trust's Fair Value Pricing Committee makes regular reports to the Board concerning investments for which market quotations are not readily available. Annually, the independent registered public accounting firm reviews with the Audit Committee its audit of the Funds' financial statements, focusing on major areas of risk encountered by the Funds and noting any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the Funds' internal controls. Additionally, in connection with its oversight function, the Board oversees Fund management's implementation of disclosure controls and
procedures, which are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Trust in its periodic reports with the SEC are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the required time periods. The Board also oversees the Trust's internal controls over financial reporting, which comprise policies and procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of the Trust's financial reporting and the preparation of the Trust's financial statements.
From their review of these reports and discussions with the Adviser, the Chief Compliance Officer, the independent registered public accounting firm and other service providers, the Board and the Audit Committee learn in detail about the material risks of the Funds, thereby facilitating a dialogue about how management and service providers identify and mitigate those risks.
The Board recognizes that not all risks that may affect the Funds can be identified and/or quantified, that it may not be practical or cost-effective to eliminate or mitigate certain risks, that it may be necessary to bear certain risks (such as investment-related risks) to achieve the Funds' goals, and that the processes, procedures and controls employed to address certain risks may be limited in their effectiveness. Moreover, reports received by the Trustees as to risk management matters are typically summaries of the relevant information. Most of the Funds' investment management and business affairs are carried out by or through the Funds' Adviser and other service providers each of which has an independent interest in risk management but whose policies and the methods by which one or more risk management functions are carried out may differ from the Funds' and each other's in the setting of priorities, the resources available or the effectiveness of relevant controls. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, the Board's ability to monitor and manage risk, as a practical matter, is subject to limitations.
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD. There are eight members of the Board of Trustees, six of whom are not interested persons of the Trust, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act ("independent Trustees"). Robert Nesher, an interested person of the Trust, serves as Chairman of the Board. George Sullivan, an independent Trustee, serves as the lead independent Trustee. The Trust has determined its leadership structure is appropriate given the specific characteristics and circumstances of the Trust. The Trust made this determination in consideration of, among other things, the fact that the independent Trustees constitute a super-majority (75%) of the Board, the fact that the chairperson of each Committee of the Board is an independent Trustee, the amount of assets under management in the Trust, and the number of Funds (and classes of shares) overseen by the Board. The Board also believes that its leadership structure facilitates the orderly and efficient flow of information to the independent Trustees from Fund management.
The Board of Trustees has three standing committees: the Audit Committee, Governance Committee and Fair Value Pricing Committee. The Audit Committee and Governance Committee are chaired by an independent Trustee and composed of all of the independent Trustees. In addition, the Board of Trustees has a lead independent Trustee.
In his role as lead independent Trustee, Mr. Sullivan, among other things:
presides over board meetings in the absence of the Chairman of the Board;
presides over executive sessions of the independent Trustees; along with the
Chairman of the Board, oversees the development of agendas for Board meetings;
facilitates communication between the independent Trustees and management, and
among the independent Trustees; serves as a key point person for dealings
between the independent Trustees and management; and has such other
responsibilities as the Board or independent Trustees determine from time to
time.
Set forth below are the names, dates of birth, position with the Trust, length of term of office, and the principal occupations and other directorships held during at least the last five years of each of the persons currently serving as a Trustee of the Trust. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each Trustee is SEI Investments Company, One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTERESTED TRUSTEES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Robert Nesher Chairman of SEI employee 1974 to Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (08/17/46) the Board of present; currently performs Bishop Street Funds, SEI Daily Income Trust, Trustees(1) various services on behalf SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI (since 1991) of SEI Investments for Institutional Investments Trust, SEI which Mr. Nesher is Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid compensated. President and Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust and Director of SEI Opportunity SEI Tax Exempt Trust. President and Director Fund, L.P. and SEI of SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P. and SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP. Structured Credit Fund, L.P. Director of SEI President and Chief Global Master Fund plc, SEI Global Asset Fund Executive Officer of SEI plc, SEI Global Investments Fund plc, SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, Investments -- Global Funds Services, Limited, LP, June 2007 to present. SEI Investments Global, Limited, SEI Investments (Europe) Ltd., SEI Investments -- Unit Trust Management (UK) Limited, SEI Multi-Strategy Funds PLC, SEI Global Nominee Ltd. and SEI Alpha Stragegy Portfolios, L.P. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- William M. Doran Trustee(1) Self-Employed Consultant Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (05/26/40) (since 1992) since 2003. Partner at Bishop Street Funds, SEI Daily Income Trust, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI (law firm) from 1976 to Institutional Investments Trust, SEI 2003. Counsel to the Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Trust, SEI Investments, SIMC, Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust the Administrator and the and SEI Tax Exempt Trust. Director of SEI Distributor. Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP. Director of SEI Investments (Europe), Limited, SEI Investments--Global Funds Services, Limited, SEI Investments Global, Limited, SEI Investments (Asia), Limited and SEI Asset Korea Co., Ltd. Director of the Distributor since 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Charles E. Carlbom Trustee Self-Employed Business Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (08/20/34) (since 2005) Consultant, Business and Bishop Street Funds; Director of Oregon Projects Inc. Transfer Co. since 1997. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- John K. Darr Trustee Retired. CEO, Office of Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (08/17/44) (since 2008) Finance, Federal Home Loan and Bishop Street Funds, Director of Federal Bank, from 1992 to 2007. Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh and Manna, Inc. (non-profit developer of affordable housing for ownership). ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mitchell A. Johnson Trustee Retired. Private investor Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund, (03/01/42) (since 2005) since 1994. Bishop Street Funds, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP. Director, Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (Farmer Mac) since 1997. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH TRUST AND NAME AND LENGTH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM IN THE PAST 5 YEARS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Betty L. Krikorian Trustee Vice President, Compliance, Trustee of The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund (01/23/43) (since 2005) AARP Financial Inc. from and Bishop Street Funds. 2008 to 2010. Self-Employed Legal and Financial Services Consultant since 2003. Counsel (in-house) for State Street Bank from 1995 to 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James M. Storey Trustee Attorney, Solo Practitioner Trustee/Director of The Advisors' Inner (04/12/31) (since 1994) since 1994. Circle Fund, Bishop Street Funds, U.S. Charitable Gift Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, L.P. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- George J. Sullivan, Jr. Trustee Self-employed Consultant, Trustee/Director of State Street Navigator (11/13/42) (since 1999) Newfound Consultants Inc. Securities Lending Trust, The Advisors' since April 1997. Inner Circle Fund, Bishop Street Funds, SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P., SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Tax Exempt Trust and SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP; member of the independent review committee for SEI's Canadian-registered mutual funds. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Denotes Trustees who may be deemed to be "interested" persons of the Fund as that term is defined in the 1940 Act byvirtueof their affiliation with the Distributor and/or its affiliates.
Individual Trustee Qualifications
The Trust has concluded that each of the Trustees should serve on the Board because of their ability to review and understand information about the Funds provided to them by management, to identify and request other information they may deem relevant to the performance of their duties, to question management and other service providers regarding material factors bearing on the management and administration of the Funds, and to exercise their business judgment in a manner that serves the best interests of the Funds' shareholders. The Trust has concluded that each of the Trustees should serve as a Trustee based on their own experience, qualifications, attributes and skills as described below.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Nesher should serve as Trustee because of the experience he has gained in his various roles with SEI Investments Company, which he joined in 1974, his knowledge of and experience in the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1991.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Doran should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained serving as a Partner in the Investment Management and Securities Industry Practice of a large law firm, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1991.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Carlbom should serve as Trustee because of the business experience he gained as President and CEO of a large distribution cooperative and Chairman of a consulting company, his knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Funds since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Darr should serve as Trustee because of his background in economics, the business experience he gained in a variety of roles with different financial and banking institutions and as a founder of a money management firm, his knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2008.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Johnson should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained as President and founder of an investment management firm, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services and banking industries, the experience he gained serving as a director of other mutual funds, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Ms. Krikorian should serve as Trustee because of the experience she gained serving as a legal and financial services consultant, in-house counsel to a large custodian bank and Vice President of Compliance of an investment adviser, her background in fiduciary and banking law, her experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience she has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 2005.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Storey should serve as Trustee because of the mutual fund governance experience he gained as an Investment Management attorney, both in private practice and with the SEC, his background serving as counsel to numerous mutual fund boards of trustees, his knowledge of the 1940 Act, his experience in and knowledge of the financial services industry, and the experience he has gained serving as trustee of the Trust since 1994.
The Trust has concluded that Mr. Sullivan should serve as Trustee because of the experience he gained as a certified public accountant and financial consultant, his experience in and knowledge of public company accounting and auditing and the financial services industry, the experience he gained as an officer of a large financial services firm in its operations department and his experience from serving as trustee of the Trust since 1999.
In its periodic assessment of the effectiveness of the Board, the Board considers the complementary individual skills and experience of the individual Trustees primarily in the broader context of the Board's overall composition so that the Board, as a body, possesses the appropriate (and appropriately diverse) skills and experience to oversee the business of the funds. Moreover, references to the qualifications, attributes and skills of Trustees are pursuant to requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission, do not constitute holding out of the Board or any Trustee as having any special expertise or experience, and shall not be deemed to impose any greater responsibility or liability on any such person or on the Board by reason thereof.
BOARD COMMITTEES. The Board has established the following standing committees:
o AUDIT COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Audit Committee that is composed of each of the independent Trustees of the Trust. The Audit Committee operates under a written charter approved by the Board. The principal responsibilities of the Audit Committee include: recommending which firm to engage as each fund's independent registered public accounting firm and whether to terminate this relationship; reviewing the independent registered public accounting firm's compensation, the proposed scope and terms of its engagement, and the firm's independence; pre-approving audit and non- audit services provided by each fund's independent registered public accounting firm to the Trust and certain other affiliated entities; serving as a channel of communication between the independent registered public accounting firm and the Trustees; reviewing the results of each external audit, including any qualifications in the independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, any related management letter, management's responses to recommendations made by the independent registered public accounting firm in connection with the audit, reports submitted to the Committee by the internal auditing department of the Trust's Administrator that are material to the Trust as a whole, if any, and management's responses to any such reports; reviewing each fund's audited financial statements and considering any significant disputes between the Trust's management and the independent registered public accounting firm that arose in connection with the preparation of those financial statements; considering, in consultation with the independent registered public accounting firm and the Trust's senior internal accounting executive, if any, the independent registered public accounting firms' reports on the adequacy of the Trust's internal financial controls; reviewing, in consultation with each fund's independent registered public accounting firm, major changes regarding auditing and accounting principles and practices to be followed when preparing each fund's financial statements; and other audit related matters. Messrs. Carlbom, Darr, Johnson, Storey,
Sullivan and Ms. Krikorian currently serve as members of the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
o FAIR VALUE PRICING COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Fair Value Pricing Committee that is composed of at least one Trustee and various representatives of the Trust's service providers, as appointed by the Board. The Fair Value Pricing Committee operates under procedures approved by the Board. The principal responsibility of the Fair Value Pricing Committee is to determine the fair value of securities for which current market quotations are not readily available. The Fair Value Pricing Committee's determinations are reviewed by the Board. Mr. Nesher, interested trustee, currently serves as the Board's delegate on the Fair Value Pricing Committee. The Fair Value Pricing Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
o GOVERNANCE COMMITTEE. The Board has a standing Governance Committee (formerly the Nominating Committee) that is composed of each of the independent Trustees of the Trust. The Governance Committee operates under a written charter approved by the Board. The principal responsibilities of the Governance Committee include: considering and reviewing Board governance and compensation issues; conducting a self-assessment of the Board's operations; selecting and nominating all persons to serve as Independent Trustees and evaluating the qualifications of "interested" Trustee candidates; and reviewing shareholder recommendations for nominations to fill vacancies on the Board if such recommendations are submitted in writing and addressed to the Committee at the Trust's office. Ms. Krikorian and Messrs. Carlbom, Darr, Johnson, Storey and Sullivan, currently serve as members of the Governance Committee. The Governance Committee meets periodically, as necessary, and met __ times during the most recently completed fiscal year.
FUND SHARES OWNED BY BOARD MEMBERS. The following table shows the dollar amount range of each Trustee's "beneficial ownership" of shares of the Fund as of the end of the most recently completed calendar year. Dollar amount ranges disclosed are established by the SEC. "Beneficial ownership" is determined in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the 1934 Act. The Trustees and officers of the Trust own less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Trust.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- AGGREGATE DOLLAR DOLLAR RANGE RANGE OF SHARES NAME OF FUND SHARES (ALL FUNDS)(1) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INTERESTED TRUSTEES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nesher None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Doran None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Carlbom None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Darr None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Johnson None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Krikorian None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Storey None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sullivan None None -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) Valuation date is December 31, 2009.
BOARD COMPENSATION. The Trust paid the following fees to the Trustees during its most recently completed fiscal year.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PENSION OR RETIREMENT BENEFITS ESTIMATED ANNUAL TOTAL COMPENSATION FROM AGGREGATE ACCRUED AS PART OF BENEFITS UPON THE TRUST AND FUND NAME COMPENSATION FUND EXPENSES RETIREMENT COMPLEX(2) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $0 for service on one (1) Robert A. Nesher(1) $0 N/A N/A board --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $0 for service on one (1) William M. Doran(1) $0 N/A N/A board --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Charles E. Carlbom $XX N/A N/A $XX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- John K. Darr $XX N/A N/A $XX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mitchell A. Johnson $XX N/A N/A $XX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Betty L. Krikorian $XX N/A N/A $XX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James M. Storey $XX N/A N/A $XX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- George J. Sullivan $XX N/A N/A $XX --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
(1) A Trustee who is an "interested person" as defined by the 1940 Act.
(2) The Trust is the only investment company in the "Fund Complex."
TRUST OFFICERS. Set forth below are the names, dates of birth, position with the Trust, and the principal occupations for the last five years of each of the persons currently serving as the Executive Officers of the Trust. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each officer is SEI Investments Company, One Freedom Valley Drive, Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456. The Chief Compliance Officer is the only officer who receives compensation from the Trust for his services.
Certain officers of the Trust also serve as officers of one or more mutual funds for which SEI Investments Company or its affiliates act as investment manager, administrator or distributor.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH NAME AND TRUST AND LENGTH DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS IN PAST 5 YEARS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Philip T. President Managing Director of SEI Investments None. Masterson (since 2008) since 2006. Vice President and Assistant (03/12/64) Secretary of the Administrator from 2004 to 2006. General Counsel of Citco Mutual Fund Services from 2003 to 2004. Vice President and Associate Counsel for the Oppenheimer Funds from 2001 to 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael Lawson Treasurer, Director, SEI Investments, Fund None. (10/08/60) Controller and Accounting since July 2005. Manager, Chief Financial SEI Investments, Fund Accounting at SEI Officer Investments AVP from April 1995 to (since 2005) February 1998 and November 1998 to July 2005. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- POSITION WITH NAME AND TRUST AND LENGTH DATE OF BIRTH OF TERM PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS IN PAST 5 YEARS OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Russell Emery Chief Compliance Chief Compliance Officer of SEI None. (12/18/62) Officer Structured Credit Fund, LP and SEI (since 2006) Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP since June 2007. Chief Compliance Officer of SEI Opportunity Fund, L.P., SEI Institutional Managed Trust, SEI Asset Allocation Trust, SEI Institutional International Trust, SEI Institutional Investments Trust, SEI Daily Income Trust, SEI Liquid Asset Trust and SEI Tax Exempt Trust since March 2006. Director of Investment Product Management and Development, SEI Investments, since February 2003; Senior Investment Analyst -- Equity Team, SEI Investments, from March 2000 to February 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Carolyn Mead Vice President Counsel at SEI Investments since 2007. None. (07/08/57) and Assistant Associate at Stradley, Ronon, Stevens & Secretary Young from 2004 to 2007. Counsel at (since 2007) ING Variable Annuities from 1999 to 2002. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Timothy D. Vice President General Counsel and Secretary of SIMC None. Barto and Assistant and the Administrator since 2004. Vice (03/28/68) Secretary President of SIMC and the Administrator (since 1999) since 1999. Vice President and Assistant Secretary of SEI Investments since 2001. Assistant Secretary of SIMC, the Administrator and the Distributor, and Vice President of the Distributor from 1999 to 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- James Ndiaye Vice President Vice President and Assistant Secretary of None. (09/11/68) and Assistant SIMC since 2005. Vice President at Secretary Deutsche Asset Management from 2003 (since 2004) to 2004. Associate at Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP from 2000 to 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Joseph Gallo Vice President Counsel at SEI Investments since 2007. None. (04/29/73) and Secretary Associate Counsel at ICMA--RC from (since 2007) 2004 to 2007. Assistant Secretary of The VantageTrust Company in 2007. Assistant Secretary of The Vantagepoint Funds from 2006 to 2007. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Andrew S. AML Officer Compliance Officer and Product Manager None. Decker (since 2008) of SEI Investments since 2005. Vice (08/22/63) President of Old Mutual Capital from 2000 to 2005. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Michael Beattie Vice President Director of Client Service at SEI since None. (03/13/65) (since 2009) 2004. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Keri Rohn Privacy Officer Compliance Officer at SEI Investments None. (8/24/80) (since 2009) since 2003. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES
Purchases and redemptions may be made through the Transfer Agent on any day the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. Shares of the Fund are offered and redeemed on a continuous basis. Currently, the Trust is closed for business when the following holidays are observed: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
It is currently the Trust's policy to pay all redemptions in cash. The Trust retains the right, however, to alter this policy to provide for redemptions in whole or in part by a distribution in-kind of securities held by the Fund in lieu of cash. Shareholders
may incur brokerage charges on the sale of any such securities so received in payment of redemptions. A Shareholder will at all times be entitled to aggregate cash redemptions from all funds of the Trust up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the Trust's net assets during any 90-day period. The Trust has obtained an exemptive order from the SEC that permits the Trust to make in-kind redemptions to those shareholders of the Trust that are affiliated with the Trust solely by their ownership of a certain percentage of the Trust's investment portfolios.
The Trust reserves the right to suspend the right of redemption and/or to postpone the date of payment upon redemption for any period on which trading on the NYSE is restricted, or during the existence of an emergency (as determined by the SEC by rule or regulation) as a result of which disposal or valuation of the Fund's securities is not reasonably practicable, or for such other periods as the SEC has by order permitted. The Trust also reserves the right to suspend sales of shares of the Fund for any period during which the NYSE, the Adviser, the Administrator, the Transfer Agent and/or the Custodian are not open for business.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
GENERAL POLICY. The Fund adheres to Section 2(a)(41), and Rule 2a-4 thereunder, of the 1940 Act with respect to the valuation of portfolio securities. In general, securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at current market value, and all other securities are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Board. In complying with the 1940 Act, the Trust relies on guidance provided by the SEC and by the SEC staff in various interpretive letters and other guidance.
EQUITY SECURITIES. Securities listed on a securities exchange, market or automated quotation system for which quotations are readily available (except for securities traded on NASDAQ), including securities traded over the counter, are valued at the last quoted sale price on the primary exchange or market (foreign or domestic) on which they are traded on valuation date (or at approximately 4:00 p.m. ET if a security's primary exchange is normally open at that time), or, if there is no such reported sale on the valuation date, at the most recent quoted bid price. For securities traded on NASDAQ, the NASDAQ Official Closing Price will be used. If such prices are not available or determined to not represent the fair value of the security as of the Fund's pricing time, the security will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
MONEY MARKET SECURITIES AND OTHER DEBT SECURITIES. If available, money market securities and other debt securities are priced based upon valuations provided by recognized independent, third-party pricing agents. Such values generally reflect the last reported sales price if the security is actively traded. The third-party pricing agents may also value debt securities by employing methodologies that utilize actual market transactions, broker-supplied valuations, or other methodologies designed to identify the market value for such securities. Such methodologies generally consider such factors as security prices, yields, maturities, call features, ratings and developments relating to specific securities in arriving at valuations. Money market securities and other debt securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less may be valued at their amortized cost, which approximates market value. If such prices are not available or determined to not represent the fair value of the security as of the Fund's pricing time, the security will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith using methods approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees.
USE OF THIRD-PARTY INDEPENDENT PRICING AGENTS. Pursuant to contracts with the Trust's Administrator, market prices for most securities held by the Fund are provided daily by third-party independent pricing agents that are approved by the Board of Trustees of the Trust. The valuations provided by third-party independent pricing agents are reviewed daily by the Administrator.
TAXES
The following is only a summary of certain additional federal income tax considerations generally affecting the Fund and its shareholders that is intended to supplement the discussion contained in the Fund's Prospectus. No attempt is made to present a detailed explanation of the tax treatment of the Fund or its shareholders, and the discussion here and in the Fund's Prospectus is not intended as a substitute for careful tax planning. Shareholders are urged to consult with their tax advisors with specific reference to their own tax situations, including their state, local, and foreign tax liabilities.
The following general discussion of certain federal income tax consequences is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") and the regulations issued thereunder as in effect on the date of this SAI. New legislation, as well as administrative changes or court decisions, may significantly change the conclusions expressed herein, and may have a retroactive effect with respect to the transactions contemplated herein.
QUALIFICATIONS AS A RIC
The Fund intends to qualify and elects to be treated as a "regulated investment company" ("RIC") under Subchapter M of the Code. By following such a policy, the Fund expects to eliminate or reduce to a nominal amount the federal taxes to which it may be subject. The Board reserves the right not to maintain the qualification of the Fund as a regulated investment company if it determines such course of action to be beneficial to shareholders.
In order to be taxable as a RIC, the Fund must distribute annually to its shareholders at least 90% of its net investment income (generally net investment income plus the excess of net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses, less operating expenses) and at least 90% of its net tax exempt interest income, for each tax year, if any, to its shareholders ("Distribution Requirement") and also must meet several additional requirements. Among these requirements are the following: (i) at least 90% of the Fund's gross income each taxable year must be derived from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income, including, generally, certain gains from options, futures, and forward contracts derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies, and net income derived from an interest in qualified publicly traded partnerships; (ii) at the end of each fiscal quarter of the Fund's taxable year, at least 50% of the market value of its total assets must be represented by cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, securities of other RICs and other securities, with such other securities limited, in respect to any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets or more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer; and (iii) at the end of each fiscal quarter of the Fund's taxable year, not more than 25% of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities (other than U.S. government securities or securities of other RICs) of any one issuer or the securities (other than the securities of other RICs) of two or more issuers that the Fund controls and which are engaged in the same, or similar, or related trades or businesses, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded parternships.
If the Fund fails to qualify as a RIC for any year, all of its income will be subject to federal income tax at regular corporate rates without any deduction for distributions to shareholders. In such case, its shareholders would be taxed as if they received ordinary dividends, although corporate shareholders could be eligible for the dividends received deduction and individuals may be able to benefit from the lower tax rates available to qualified dividend income. In addition, the Fund would be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial taxes and interest, and make substantial distributions before requalifying as a RIC.
QUALIFIED PUBLICLY TRADED PARTNERSHIPS
The Fund intends to invest in one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships. Net income derived from an interest in qualified publicly traded partnerships qualifies for purposes of satisfying the 90% gross income test imposed on the Fund under Subchapter M of the Code. In addition, subject to certain limitations, the securities of qualified publicly traded partnerships satisfy the asset diversification tests imposed on the Fund under Subchapter M of the Code. The Fund intends to limit its purchases of securities issued by any one qualified publicly traded partnership to an amount that does not exceed 1% of the total value of the Fund's total assets and to limit its total purchases of securities issued by all the qualified publicly traded partnerships in the Fund's portfolio to an amount that does not exceed 10% of the total value of the Fund's total assets. These limitations are within the limits imposed under the diversification tests.
For these purposes, the term "qualified publicly traded partnership" means any partnership if (i) interests in such partnership are traded on an established securities market or (ii) interests in such partnership are readily tradable on a secondary market (or the substantial equivalent thereof) and (iii) less than 90 percent of the partnership's gross income is derived from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income, including, generally, certain gains from options, futures, and forward contracts derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies.
The Fund intends to limit its acquisition of interests in qualified publicly traded partnerships to such partnerships that are not treated as corporations for federal income tax purposes under Section 7704(b) of the Code.
FEDERAL EXCISE TAX
Notwithstanding the Distribution Requirement described above, which only requires the Fund to distribute at least 90% of its annual investment company income and does not require any minimum distribution of net capital gain, the Fund will be subject to a nondeductible 4% federal excise tax to the extent it fails to distribute, by the end of any calendar year, at least 98% of its ordinary income for that year and 98% of its capital gain net income (the excess of short- and long-term capital gain over short-and long-term capital loss) for the one-year period ending on October 31 of that year, plus certain other amounts. The Fund intends to make sufficient distributions to avoid liability for federal excise tax, but can make no assurances that such tax will be completely eliminated. The Fund may in certain circumstances be required to liquidate Fund investments in order to make sufficient distributions to avoid federal excise tax liability at a time when the investment adviser might not otherwise have chosen to do so, and liquidation of investments in such circumstances may affect the ability of the Fund to satisfy the requirement for qualification as a RIC. If the Fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to the shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the Fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
SHAREHOLDER TREATMENT
The Fund's dividends that are paid to its corporate shareholders and are attributable to qualifying dividends it received from U.S. domestic corporations may be eligible, in the hands of such shareholders, for the corporate dividends received deduction, subject to certain holding period requirements and debt financing limitations. Generally, and subject to certain limitations (including certain holding period limitations), a dividend will be treated as a qualifying dividend if it has been received from a domestic corporation. All dividends (including the deducted portion) must be included in your alternative minimum taxable income calculation.
The Fund receives income generally in the form of dividends and interest on investments. This income, plus net short-term capital gains, if any, less expenses incurred in the operation of the Fund, constitutes the Fund's net investment income from which dividends may be paid to you. Any distributions by the Fund from such income will be taxable to you as ordinary income or at the lower capital gains rates that apply to individuals receiving qualified dividend income, whether you take them in cash or in additional shares.
Distributions by the Fund will be eligible for the reduced maximum tax rate to
individuals of 15% (lower rates apply to individuals in lower tax brackets) to
the extent that the Fund receives qualified dividend income on the securities
it holds and the Fund designates the distribution as qualified dividend income.
Qualified dividend income is, in general, dividend income from taxable domestic
corporations and certain foreign corporations (e.g., foreign corporations
incorporated in a possession of the United States or in certain countries with
a comprehensive tax treaty with the United States, or the stock of which is
readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States). A
dividend will not be treated as qualified dividend income to the extent that
(i) the shareholder has not held the shares on which the dividend was paid for
more than 60 days during the 121-day period that begins on the date that is 60
days before the date on which the shares become "ex-dividend" (which is the day
on which declared distributions (dividends or capital gains) are deducted from
the Fund's assets before it calculates the net asset value) with respect to
such dividend (and the Fund also satisfies those holding period requirements
with respect to the securities it holds that paid the dividends distributed to
the shareholder), (ii) the shareholder is under an obligation (whether pursuant
to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to
substantially similar or related property, or (iii) the shareholder elects to
treat such dividend as investment income under section 163(d)(4)(B) of the
Code. Absent further legislation, the maximum 15% rate on qualified dividend
income will not apply to dividends received in taxable years beginning after
December 31, 2010. Distributions by the Fund of its net short-term capital
gains will be taxable as ordinary income. Capital gain distributions consisting
of the Fund's net capital gains will be taxable as long-term capital gains
regardless of how long the Fund's shares have been held for by the shareholder.
The Fund will report annually to its shareholders the amount of the Fund's
distributions that qualify for the reduced tax rates on qualified dividend
income and capital gain distributions.
Any gain or loss recognized on a sale, exchange, or redemption of shares of the Fund by a shareholder who is not a dealer in securities will generally, for individual shareholders, be treated as a long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than twelve months and otherwise will be treated as a short-term capital gain or loss. However, if shares on which a shareholder has received a net capital gain distribution are subsequently sold, exchanged, or redeemed and such shares have been held for six months or less, any loss recognized will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of the net capital gain distribution. In addition, the loss realized on a sale or other disposition of shares will be disallowed to the extent a shareholder repurchases (or enters into a contract to or option to repurchase) shares within a period of 61 days (beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the disposition of the shares). This loss disallowance rule will apply to shares received through the reinvestment of dividends during the 61-day period.
FOREIGN TAXES. If more than 50% of the value of the Fund's total assets at the close of its taxable year consists of stocks or securities of foreign corporations, the Fund will be eligible to, and will, file an election with the Internal Revenue Service that may enable shareholders, in effect, to receive either the benefit of a foreign tax credit or a deduction with respect to any foreign and U.S. possessions income taxes paid by the Fund, subject to certain limitations. Pursuant to the election, the Fund will treat those taxes as dividends paid to its shareholders. Each such shareholder will be required to include a proportionate share of those taxes in gross income as income received from a foreign source and must treat the amount so included as if the shareholder had paid the foreign tax directly. The shareholder may then either deduct the taxes deemed paid by him or her in computing his or her taxable income or, alternatively, use the foregoing information in calculating any foreign tax credit they may be entitled to use against the shareholders' federal income tax. If the Fund makes the election, the Fund will report annually to its shareholders the respective amounts per share of the Fund's income from sources within, and taxes paid to, foreign countries and U.S. possessions.
STATE TAXES. Depending upon state and local law, distributions by the Fund to its shareholders and the ownership of such shares may be subject to state and local taxes. Rules of state and local taxation of dividend and capital gains distributions from RICs often differ from rules for federal income taxation described above. The Fund is not liable for any income or franchise tax in Massachusetts if it qualifies as a RIC for federal income tax purposes. Shareholders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding state and local taxes applicable to an investment in the Fund.
Many states grant tax-free status to dividends paid to you from interest earned on direct obligations of the U.S. government, subject in some states to minimum investment requirements that must be met by the Fund. Investment in Government National Mortgage Association ("Ginnie Mae") or Federal National Mortgage Association ("Fannie Mae") securities, banker's acceptances, commercial paper, and repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government securities do not generally qualify for such tax-free treatment. The rules on exclusion of this income are different for corporate shareholders.
TAX TREATMENT OF COMPLEX SECURITIES. The Fund may invest in complex securities. These investments may be subject to numerous special and complex tax rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by the Fund are treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the recognition of income to the Fund and/or defer the Fund's ability to recognize losses, and, in limited cases, subject the Fund to U.S. federal income tax on income from certain of its foreign securities. In turn, these rules may affect the amount, timing or character of the income distributed to you by the Fund.
Most foreign exchange gains realized on the sale of debt securities are treated as ordinary income by the Fund. Similarly, foreign exchange losses realized by the Fund on the sale of debt securities are generally treated as ordinary losses by the Fund. These gains when distributed will be taxable to you as ordinary dividends, and any losses will reduce the Fund's ordinary income otherwise available for distribution to you. This treatment could increase or reduce the Fund's ordinary income distributions to you, and may cause some or all of the Fund's previously distributed income to be classified as a return of capital.
OTHER TAX POLICIES. In certain cases, the Fund will be required to withhold at the applicable withholding rate, and remit to the United States Treasury, such withheld amounts on any distributions paid to a shareholder who (1) has failed to provide a correct taxpayer identification number, (2) is subject to backup withholding by the Internal Revenue Service, (3) has not certified to the Fund that such shareholder is not subject to backup withholding, or (4) has not certified that such shareholder is a U.S. person or U.S. resident alien.
With respect to investments in STRIPS, TRs, and other zero coupon securities which are sold at original issue discount and thus do not make periodic cash interest payments, a Fund will be required to include as part of its current income the imputed interest on such obligations even though the Fund has not received any interest payments on such obligations during that period. Because each Fund distributes all of its net investment income to its shareholders, a Fund may choose to sell Fund securities to distribute such imputed income which may occur at a time when the Adviser would not have chosen to sell such securities and which may result in taxable gain or loss.
Non-U.S. investors in the Fund may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax and are encouraged to consult their tax advisors prior to investing in the Fund.
FUND TRANSACTIONS
BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS. Generally, equity securities, both listed and over-the-counter, are bought and sold through brokerage transactions for which commissions are payable. Purchases from underwriters will include the underwriting commission or concession, and purchases from dealers serving as market makers will include a dealer's mark-up or reflect a dealer's mark-down. Money market securities and other debt securities are usually bought and sold directly from the issuer or an underwriter or market maker for the securities. Generally, the Fund will not pay brokerage commissions for such purchases. When a debt security is bought from an underwriter, the purchase price will usually include an underwriting commission or concession. The purchase price for securities bought from dealers serving as market makers will similarly include the dealer's mark up or reflect a dealer's mark down. When the Fund executes transactions in the over-the-counter market, it will generally deal with primary market makers unless prices that are more favorable are otherwise obtainable.
In addition, the Adviser may place a combined order for two or more accounts it manages, including the Fund, engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security if, in its judgment, joint execution is in the best interest of each participant and will result in best price and execution. Transactions involving commingled orders are allocated in a manner deemed equitable to each account or fund. Although it is recognized that, in some cases, the joint execution of orders could adversely affect the price or volume of the security that a particular account or the Fund may obtain, it is the opinion of the Adviser and the Trust's Board of Trustees that the advantages of combined orders outweigh the possible disadvantages of separate transactions. Nonetheless, the Adviser believes that the ability of the Fund to participate in higher volume transactions will generally be beneficial to the Fund.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Fund paid the following aggregate brokerage commissions on portfolio transactions:
2008 2009 2010 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- $77,981 $77,787 $XX -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
BROKERAGE SELECTION. The Trust does not expect to use one particular broker or dealer, and when one or more brokers is believed capable of providing the best combination of price and execution, the Fund's Adviser may select a broker based upon brokerage or research services provided to the Adviser. The Adviser may pay a higher commission than otherwise obtainable from other brokers in return for such services only if a good faith determination is made that the commission is reasonable in relation to the services provided.
Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act permits the Adviser, under certain circumstances, to cause the Fund to pay a broker or dealer a commission for effecting a transaction in excess of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting the transaction in recognition of the value of brokerage and research services provided by the broker or dealer. In addition to agency transactions, the Adviser may receive brokerage and research services in connection with certain riskless principal transactions, in accordance with applicable SEC guidance. Brokerage and research services include: (1) furnishing advice as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities, and the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of securities; (2) furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy, and the performance of accounts; and (3) effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance, settlement, and custody). In the case of research services, the Adviser believes that access to independent investment research is beneficial to their investment decision-making processes and, therefore, to the Fund.
To the extent research services may be a factor in selecting brokers, such services may be in written form or through direct contact with individuals and may include information as to particular companies and securities as well as market, economic, or institutional areas and information which assists in the valuation and pricing of investments. Examples of research-oriented services for which the Adviser might utilize Fund commissions include research reports and other information on the economy, industries, sectors, groups of securities, individual companies, statistical information, political developments, technical market action, pricing and appraisal services, credit analysis, risk measurement analysis, performance and other analysis. The Adviser may use research services furnished by brokers in servicing all client accounts and not all services may necessarily be used in connection with the account that paid commissions to the broker providing such services. Information so received by the Adviser will be in addition to and not in lieu of the services required to be performed by the Fund's Adviser under the Advisory Agreement. Any advisory or other fees paid to the Adviser are not reduced as a result of the receipt of research services.
In some cases the Adviser may receive a service from a broker that has both a "research" and a "non-research" use. When this occurs, the Adviser makes a good faith allocation, under all the circumstances, between the research and non-research uses of the service. The percentage of the service that is used for research purposes may be paid for with client commissions, while the Adviser will use its own funds to pay for the percentage of the service that is used for non-research purposes. In making this good faith allocation, the Adviser faces a potential conflict of interest, but the Adviser believes that its allocation procedures are reasonably designed to ensure that it appropriately allocates the anticipated use of such services to their research and non-research uses.
From time to time, the Fund may purchase new issues of securities for clients in a fixed price offering. In these situations, the seller may be a member of the selling group that will, in addition to selling securities, provide the Adviser with research services. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") has adopted rules expressly permitting these types of arrangements under certain circumstances. Generally, the seller will provide research "credits" in these situations at a rate that is higher than that which is available for typical secondary market transactions. These arrangements may not fall within the safe harbor of Section 28(e).
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Fund did not pay any commissions on brokerage transactions directed to brokers pursuant to an agreement or understanding whereby the broker provides research or other brokerage services to the Adviser.
BROKERAGE WITH FUND AFFILIATES. The Fund may execute brokerage or other agency transactions through registered broker-dealer affiliates of either the Fund, the Adviser or the Distributor for a commission in conformity with the 1940 Act, the 1934 Act and rules promulgated by the SEC. These rules further require that commissions paid to the affiliate by the Fund for exchange transactions not exceed "usual and customary" brokerage commissions. The rules define "usual and customary" commissions to include amounts which are "reasonable and fair compared to the commission, fee or other remuneration received or to be received by other brokers in connection with comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold on a securities exchange during a comparable period of time." The Trustees, including those who are not "interested persons" of the Fund, have adopted procedures for evaluating the reasonableness of commissions paid to affiliates and review these procedures periodically.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Fund paid the following aggregate brokerage commissions on portfolio transactions effected by affiliated brokers. All amounts shown were paid to the Distributor.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL BROKERAGE AGGREGATE DOLLAR AMOUNT OF PERCENTAGE OF TOTAL BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS PAID TO COMMISSIONS PAID TO AFFILIATED EFFECTED THROUGH AFFILIATED BROKERS BROKERS AFFILIATED BROKERS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 2008 2009 2010 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0% 0% XX% XX% 0% XX% XX% 0% XX% ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
SECURITIES OF "REGULAR BROKER-DEALERS." The Fund is required to identify any securities of its "regular brokers and dealers" (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) which the Fund may hold at the close of its most recent fiscal year. As of the fiscal year ended July 31, 2010, the Fund did not hold any securities of its regular broker dealers.
PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The Board of Trustees has approved a policy and procedures that govern the timing and circumstances regarding the disclosure of Fund portfolio holdings information to shareholders and third parties. These policies and procedures are designed to ensure that disclosure of information regarding the Fund's portfolio securities is in the best interests of Fund shareholders, and include procedures to address conflicts between the interests of the Fund's shareholders, on the one hand, and those of the Fund's Adviser, principal underwriter or any affiliated person of the Fund, its Adviser, or its principal underwriter, on the other. Pursuant to such procedures, the Board has authorized the Adviser's Chief Compliance Officer (the "Authorized Person") to authorize the release of the Fund's portfolio holdings, as necessary, in conformity with the foregoing principles. The Authorized Person reports quarterly to the Board regarding the implementation of such policies and procedures.
Pursuant to applicable law, the Fund is required to disclose its complete portfolio holdings quarterly, within 60 days of the end of each fiscal quarter (currently, each July 31, October 31, January 31, and April 30). The Fund discloses a complete schedule of investments in each Semi-Annual Report and Annual Report to Fund shareholders or, following the first and third fiscal quarters, in quarterly holdings reports filed with the SEC on Form N-Q. Semi-Annual and Annual Reports are distributed to Fund shareholders. Quarterly holdings reports filed with the SEC on Form N-Q are not distributed to Fund shareholders, but are available, free of charge, on the EDGAR database on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
The Fund generally posts a detailed list of its securities (portfolio holdings) as of the most recent calendar month end, 30 days after the end of the calendar month. In addition, the Fund generally posts its ten largest portfolio holdings, and the percentage that each of these holdings represents of the Fund's total assets, as of the most recent calendar month end, 10 calendar days after the end of the calendar month. These postings can be found on the internet at http://aicfundholdings.com/reaves and generally remain until replaced by new postings as described above. The Adviser may exclude any portion of the Fund's portfolio holdings from publication when deemed in the best interest of the Fund.
The Fund's policies and procedures provide that the Authorized Person, may authorize disclosure of portfolio holdings information to third parties at differing times and/or with different lag times then the information posted to the internet provided that the recipient is, either by contractual agreement or otherwise by law, (i) required to maintain the confidentiality of the information and (ii) prohibited from using the information to facilitate or assist in any securities transactions or investment program. No compensation or other consideration is paid to or received by any party in connection with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information, including the Fund, Adviser and its affiliates or recipient of the Fund's portfolio holdings information. The Fund will review a third party's request for portfolio holdings information to determine whether the third party has legitimate business objectives in requesting such information.
In addition, the Fund's service providers, such as the Custodian, Administrator and transfer agent, may receive portfolio holdings information as frequently as daily in connection with their services to the Fund. In addition to any contractual provisions relating to confidentiality of information that may be included in the service providers contract with the Trust, these arrangements impose obligations on the Fund's service providers that would prohibit them from disclosing or trading on the Fund's non-public information. Financial printers and pricing information vendors may receive portfolio holdings information, as necessary, in connection with their services to the Fund.
DESCRIPTION OF SHARES
The Declaration of Trust authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of funds and shares of each fund, each of which represents an equal proportionate interest in the portfolio with each other share. Shares are entitled upon liquidation to a pro rata share in the net assets of the fund. Shareholders have no preemptive rights. The Declaration of Trust provides that the Trustees of the Trust may create additional series or classes of shares. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any additional funds and all assets in which such consideration is invested would belong to that fund and would be subject to the liabilities related thereto. Share certificates representing shares will not be issued. The Fund's shares, when issued, are fully paid and non-assessable.
SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY
The Trust is an entity of the type commonly known as a "Massachusetts business trust." Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of such a trust could, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the trust. Even if, however, the Trust were held to be a partnership, the possibility of the shareholders incurring financial loss for that reason appears remote because the Trust's Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for obligations of the Trust and requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each agreement, obligation or instrument entered into or executed by or on behalf of the Trust or the Trustees, and because the Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification out of the Trust property for any shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust.
LIMITATION OF TRUSTEES' LIABILITY
The Declaration of Trust provides that a Trustee shall be liable only for his or her own willful defaults and, if reasonable care has been exercised in the selection of officers, agents, employees or investment advisers, shall not be liable for any neglect or wrongdoing of any such person. The Declaration of Trust also provides that the Trust will indemnify its Trustees and officers against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection with actual or threatened litigation in which they may be involved because of their offices with the Trust unless it is determined in the manner provided in the Declaration of Trust that they have not acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that their actions were in the best interests of the Trust. However, nothing in the Declaration of Trust shall protect or indemnify a Trustee against any liability for his or her willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his or her duties. Nothing contained in this section attempts to disclaim a Trustee's individual liability in any manner inconsistent with the federal securities laws.
PROXY VOTING
The Board of Trustees of the Trust has delegated responsibility for decisions regarding proxy voting for securities held by the Fund to the Adviser. The Adviser will vote such proxies in accordance with its proxy policies and procedures, which are included in Appendix B to this SAI. The Board of Trustees will periodically review the Fund's proxy voting record.
The Trust is required to disclose annually the Fund's complete proxy voting record on Form N-PX. The Fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12 month period ended June 30th is available upon request by calling 1-866-773-3238 or by writing to the Fund at: Reaves Select Research Fund, P.O. Box 219009, Kansas City, MO 64121-9009. At such time, the Fund's Form N-PX is also available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
CODES OF ETHICS
The Board of Trustees, on behalf of the Trust, has adopted a Code of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. In addition, the Adviser, the Distributor and the Administrator have adopted Codes of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1. These Codes of Ethics apply to the personal investing activities of trustees, officers and certain employees ("Access Persons"). Rule 17j-1 and the Codes of Ethics are designed to prevent unlawful practices in connection with the purchase or sale of securities by Access Persons. Under each Code of Ethics, Access Persons are permitted to engage in personal securities transactions, but are required to report their personal securities transactions for monitoring purposes. In addition, certain Access Persons are required to obtain approval before investing in initial public offerings or private placements or are prohibited from making such investments. Copies of these Codes of Ethics are on file with the SEC, and are available to the public.
5% AND 25% SHAREHOLDERS
As of November 1, 2010, the following persons were record owners (or to the knowledge of the Trust, beneficial owners) of 5% and 25% or more of the shares of the Fund. Persons who owned of record or beneficially more than 25% of the Fund's outstanding shares may be deemed to control the Fund within the meaning of the 1940 Act. The Trust believes that most of the shares referred to below were held by the below persons in account for their fiduciary, agency or custodial customers.
APPENDIX A -- DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
APPENDIX A -- DESCRIPTION OF RATINGS
The following descriptions are summaries of published ratings.
DESCRIPTION OF COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
A-1 This is the highest category by Standard and Poor's (S&P) and indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment is strong. Those issues determined to possess extremely strong safety characteristics are denoted with a plus sign (+) designation. A-2 Capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is satisfactory and the obligation is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. PRIME-1 Issues rated Prime-1 (or supporting institutions) by Moody's have a superior ability for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. Prime-1 repayment ability will often be evidenced by many of the following characteristics: - Leading market positions in well-established industries. - High rates of return on funds employed. - Conservative capitalization structure with moderate reliance on debt and ample asset protection. - Broad margins in earnings coverage of fixed financial charges and high internal cash generation. - Well-established access to a range of financial markets and assured sources of alternate liquidity. |
The rating F1 (Highest Credit Quality) is the highest commercial rating assigned by Fitch Inc. Paper rated F1 is regarded as having the strongest capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. The rating F2 (Good Credit Quality) is the second highest commercial paper rating assigned by Fitch Inc., which reflects a satisfactory capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, but the margin of safety is not as great as in the case of the higher ratings.
The rating TBW-1 by Thomson BankWatch ("Thomson") indicates a very high likelihood that principal and interest will be paid on a timely basis.
DESCRIPTION OF MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
Moody's highest rating for state and municipal and other short-term notes is MIG-1 and VMIG-l. Short-term municipal securities rated MIG-1 or VMIG-1 are of the best quality. They have strong protection from established cash flows, superior liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing or both. Short-term municipal securities rated MIG-2 or VMIG-2 are of high quality. Margins of protection are ample although not so large as in the MIG-I/VMIG-2 group.
An S&P note rating reflects the liquidity concerns and market access risks unique to notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes maturing beyond three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. The following criteria will be used in making that assessment:
- Amortization Schedule - the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note, and
- Source of Payment - the more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note.
S&P note rating symbols are as follows:
SP-1 Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Those issues determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay a debt service is given a plus (+) designation. SP-2 Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the votes. |
DESCRIPTION OF CORPORATE BOND RATINGS
S&P
Bonds rated AAA have the highest rating S&P assigns to a debt obligation. Such a rating indicates an extremely strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Bonds rated AA also qualify as high-quality debt obligations. Capacity to pay principal and interest is very strong, and in the majority of instances they differ from AAA issues only in small degree. Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for debt in this category than in higher rated categories. Debt rated BB and B is regarded as having predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions. Debt rated BB has less near-term vulnerability to default than other speculative grade debt. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions that could lead to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BBB- rating. Debt rate B has greater vulnerability to default but presently has the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions would likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay principal. The B rating category also is used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
MOODY'S
Bonds that are rated Aaa by Moody's are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a large, or an exceptionally stable, margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues. Bonds rated Aa by Moody's are judged by Moody's to be of high quality by all standards. Together with bonds rated Aaa, they comprise what are generally known as high-grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present that make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than the Aaa securities. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper-medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium-grade obligations (i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured). Interest payments and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well-assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Moody's bond ratings, where specified, are applied to financial contracts, senior bank obligations and insurance company senior policyholder and claims obligations with an original maturity in excess of one-year. Obligations relying upon support mechanisms such as letters-of-credit and bonds of indemnity are excluded unless explicitly rated.
Obligations of a branch of a bank are considered to be domiciled in the country in which the branch is located. Unless noted as an exception, Moody's rating on a bank's ability to repay senior obligations extends only to branches located in countries which carry a Moody's sovereign rating. Such branch obligations are rated at the lower of the bank's rating or Moody's sovereign rating for the bank deposits for the country in which the branch is located.
When the currency in which an obligation is denominated is not the same as the currency of the country in which the obligation is domiciled, Moody's ratings do not incorporate an opinion as to whether payment of the obligation will be affected by the actions of the government controlling the currency of denomination. In addition, risk associated with bilateral conflicts between an investor's home country and either the issuer's home country or the country where an issuer branch is located are not incorporated into Moody's ratings.
Moody's makes no representation that rated bank obligations or insurance company obligations are exempt from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 or issued in conformity with any other applicable law or regulation. Nor does Moody's represent that any specific bank or insurance company obligation is legally enforceable or is a valid senior obligation of a rated issuer.
Moody's ratings are opinions, not recommendations to buy or sell, and their accuracy is not guaranteed. A rating should be weighed solely as one factor in an investment decision and you should make your own study and evaluation of any issuer whose securities or debt obligations you consider buying or selling.
FITCH INC. ("FITCH")
Bonds rated AAA by Fitch are judged by Fitch to be strictly high grade, broadly marketable, suitable for investment by trustees and fiduciary institutions liable to but slight market fluctuation other than through changes in the money rate. The prime feature of an AAA bond is a showing of earnings several times or many times interest requirements, with such stability of applicable earnings that safety is beyond reasonable question whatever changes occur in conditions. Bonds rated AA by Fitch are judged by Fitch to be of safety virtually beyond question and are readily salable, whose merits are not unlike those of the AAA class, but whose margin of safety is less strikingly broad. The issue may be the obligation of a small company, strongly secured but influenced as to rating by the lesser financial power of the enterprise and more local type market.
Bonds rated A are considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
Bonds rated BBB are considered to be investment grade and of satisfactory credit quality. The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in economic conditions and circumstances, however, are more likely to have adverse impact on these bonds, and therefore impair timely payment. The likelihood that the ratings of these bonds will fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with higher ratings. Bonds rated BB are considered speculative.
The obligor's ability to pay interest and repay principal may be affected over time by adverse economic changes. However, business and financial alternatives can be identified which could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt service requirements. Bonds rated B are considered highly speculative. While bonds in this class are currently meeting debt service requirements, the probability of continued timely payment of principal and interest reflects the obligor's limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic activity throughout the life of the issue.
THOMSON
Bonds rated AAA by Thomson BankWatch indicate that the ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis is extremely high. Bonds rated AA indicate a very strong ability to repay principal and interest on a timely basis, with limited incremental risk compared to issues rated in the highest category. Bonds rated A indicate the ability to repay principal and interest is strong. Issues rated A could be more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings.
Bonds rated BBB (the lowest investment-grade category) indicate an acceptable capacity to repay principal and interest. Issues rated "BBB" are, however, more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings.
While not investment grade, the BB rating suggests that the likelihood of default is considerably less than for lower-rated issues. However, there are significant uncertainties that could affect the ability to adequately service debt obligations. Issues rated B show a higher degree of uncertainty and therefore greater likelihood of default than higher-rated issues. Adverse developments could negatively affect the payment of interest and principal on a timely basis.
APPENDIX B -- PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
1. BACKGROUND
The act of managing assets of clients may include the voting of proxies related to such managed assets. Where the power to vote in person or by proxy has been delegated, directly or indirectly, to the investment adviser, the investment adviser has the fiduciary responsibility for (a) voting in a manner that is in the best interests of the client, and (b) properly dealing with potential conflicts of interest arising from proxy proposals being voted upon.
The policies and procedures of W. H. Reaves & Company, Inc. ("WHR") ("the Adviser") for voting proxies received for accounts managed by the Adviser are set forth below and are applicable if:
o The underlying advisory agreement entered into with the client expressly provides that the Adviser shall be responsible to vote proxies received in connection with the client's account; or
o The underlying advisory agreement entered into with the client is silent as to whether or not the Adviser shall be responsible to vote proxies received in connection with the client's account and the Adviser has discretionary authority over investment decisions for the client's account; or
o In case of an employee benefit plan, the client (or any plan trustee or other fiduciary) has not reserved the power to vote proxies in either the underlying advisory agreement entered into with the client or in the client's plan documents.
These Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures are designed to ensure that proxies are voted in an appropriate manner and should complement the Adviser's investment policies and procedures regarding its general responsibility to monitor the performance and/or corporate events of companies which are issuers of securities held in managed accounts. Any questions about these policies and procedures should be directed to WHR's Compliance Department.
PROXY VOTING POLICIES
In the absence of specific voting guidelines from a client, WHR will vote proxies in a manner that is in the best interest of the client, which may result in different voting results for proxies for the same issuer. The Adviser shall consider only those factors that relate to the client's investment or dictated by the client's written instructions, including how its vote will economically impact and affect the value of the client's investment (keeping in mind that, after conducting an appropriate cost-benefit analysis, not voting at all on a presented proposal may be in the best interest of the client). WHR believes that voting proxies in accordance with the following policies is in the best interests of its clients.
A. SPECIFIC VOTING POLICIES
1. Routine Items:
o The Adviser will generally vote for the election of directors (where no corporate governance issues are implicated).
o The Adviser will generally vote for the selection of independent auditors.
o The Adviser will generally vote for increases in or reclassification of common stock.
o The Adviser will generally vote for management recommendations adding or amending indemnification provisions in charter or by-laws.
o The Adviser will generally vote for changes in the board of directors.
o The Adviser will generally vote for outside director compensation.
o The Adviser will generally vote for proposals that maintain or strengthen the shared interests of shareholders and management
o The Adviser will generally vote for proposals that increase shareholder value
o The Adviser will generally vote for proposals that will maintain or increase shareholder influence over the issuer's board of directors and management
o The Adviser will generally vote for proposals that maintain or increase the rights of shareholders
2. Non-Routine and Conflict of Interest Items:
o The Adviser will generally vote for management proposals for merger or reorganization if the transaction appears to offer fair value
o The Adviser will generally vote against shareholder resolutions that consider only non-financial impacts of mergers
o The Adviser will generally vote against anti-greenmail provisions
B. General Voting Policy
If the proxy includes a Routine Item that implicates corporate governance changes, a Non-Routine Item where no specific policy applies or a Conflict of Interest Item where no specific policy applies, then the Adviser may engage an independent third party to determine how the proxies should be voted.
In voting on each and every issue, the Adviser and its employees shall vote in a prudent and timely fashion and only after a careful evaluation of the issue(s) presented on the ballot.
In exercising its voting discretion, the Adviser and its employees shall avoid any direct or indirect conflict of interest raised by such voting decision. The Adviser will provide adequate disclosure to the client if any substantive aspect or foreseeable result of the subject matter to be voted upon raises an actual or potential conflict of interest to the Adviser or:
o any affiliate of the Adviser. For purposes of these Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures, an affiliate means:
(i) any person directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Adviser;
(ii) any officer, director, principal, partner, employer, or direct or indirect beneficial owner of any 10% or greater equity or voting interest of the Adviser; or
(iii) any other person for which a person described in clause (ii) acts in any such capacity;
o any issuer of a security for which the Adviser (or any affiliate of the Adviser) acts as a sponsor, advisor, manager, custodian, distributor, underwriter, broker, or other similar capacity; or
o any person with whom the Adviser (or any affiliate of the Adviser) has an existing, material contract or business relationship that was not entered into in the ordinary course of the Adviser's (or its affiliate's) business.
After informing the client of any potential conflict of interest, the Adviser will take other appropriate action as required under these Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures, as provided below.
The Adviser shall keep certain records required by applicable law in connection with its proxy voting activities for clients and shall provide proxy-voting information to clients upon their written or oral request.
3. PROXY VOTING PROCEDURES
A. The Account Representative or the Portfolio Manager the "Responsible Party") shall be designated by the Adviser to make discretionary investment decisions for the client's account will be responsible for voting the proxies related to that account. The Responsible Party should assume that he or she has the power to vote all proxies related to the client's account if any one of the three circumstances set forth in Section 1 above regarding proxy voting powers is applicable.
B. All proxies and ballots received by WHR will be forwarded to the Responsible Party and then logged in upon receipt in the "Receipt of Proxy Voting Material" log.
C. Prior to voting, the Responsible Party will verify whether his or her voting power is subject to any limitations or guidelines issued by the client (or in the case of an employee benefit plan, the plan's trustee or other fiduciaries).
D. Prior to voting, the Responsible Party will verify whether an actual or potential conflict of interest with the Adviser or any Interested Person exists in connection with the subject proposal(s) to be voted upon. The determination regarding the presence or absence of any actual or potential conflict of interest shall be adequately documented by the Responsible Party (i. e. , comparing the apparent parties affected by the proxy proposal being voted upon against the Adviser's internal list of Interested Persons and, for any matches found, describing the process taken to determine the anticipated magnitude and possible probability of any conflict of interest being present), which shall be reviewed and signed off on by the Responsible Party's direct supervisor (and if none, by the board of directors or a committee of the board of directors of the Adviser).
E. If an actual or potential conflict is found to exist, written notification of the conflict (the "Conflict Notice") shall be given to the client or the client's designee (or in the case of an employee benefit plan, the plan's trustee or other fiduciary) in sufficient detail and with sufficient time to reasonably inform the client (or in the case of an employee benefit plan, the plan's trustee or other fiduciary) of the actual or potential conflict involved.
Specifically, the Conflict Notice should describe:
o the proposal to be voted upon;
o the actual or potential conflict of interest involved;
o the Adviser's vote recommendation (with a summary of material factors supporting the recommended vote); and
o if applicable, the relationship between the Adviser and any Interested Person.
The Conflict Notice will either request the client's consent to the Adviser's vote recommendation or may request the client to vote the proxy directly or through another designee of the client. The Conflict Notice and consent thereto may be sent or received, as the case may be, by mail, fax, electronic transmission or any other reliable form of communication that may be recalled, retrieved, produced, or printed in accordance with the recordkeeping policies and procedures of the Adviser. If the client (or in the case of an employee benefit plan, the plan's trustee or other fiduciary) is unreachable or has not affirmatively responded before the response deadline for the matter being voted upon, the Adviser may:
o engage a non-Interested Party to independently review the Adviser's vote recommendation if the vote recommendation would fall in favor of the Adviser's interest (or the interest of an Interested Person) to confirm that the Adviser's vote recommendation is in the best interest of the client under the circumstances;
o cast its vote as recommended if the vote recommendation would fall against the Adviser's interest (or the interest of an Interested Person) and such vote recommendation is in the best interest of the client under the circumstances; or
o abstain from voting if such action is determined by the Adviser to be in the best interest of the client under the circumstances.
F. The Responsible Party will promptly vote proxies received in a manner consistent with the Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures stated above and guidelines (if any) issued by client (or in the case of an employee benefit plan, the plan's trustee or other fiduciaries if such guidelines are consistent with ERISA).
G. In accordance with SEC Rule 204-2(c)(2), as amended, the Responsible Party shall retain in the respective client's file, the following:
o A copy of the proxy statement received (unless retained by a third party for the benefit of the Adviser or the proxy statement is available from the SEC's Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) system);
o A record of the vote cast (unless this record is retained by a third party for the benefit of the Adviser and the third party is able to promptly provide the Adviser with a copy of the voting record upon its request);
o A record memorializing the basis for the vote cast;
o A copy of any document created by the Adviser or its employees that was material in making the decision on how to vote the subject proxy; and,
o A copy of any Conflict Notice, conflict consent or any other written communication (including emails or other electronic communications) to or from the client (or in the case of an employee benefit plan, the plan's trustee or other fiduciaries) regarding the subject proxy vote cast by, or the vote recommendation of, the Adviser.
The above copies and records shall be retained in the client's file for a period not less than five (5) years (or in the case of an employee benefit plan, no less than six (6) years), which shall be maintained at the appropriate office of the Adviser.
H. Periodically, but no less than annually, the Adviser will:
1. Verify that all annual proxies for the securities held in the client's account have been received;
2. Verify that each proxy received has been voted in a manner consistent with the Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures and the guidelines (if any) issued by the client (or in the case of an employee benefit plan, the plan's trustee or other fiduciaries);
3. Review the files to verify that records of the voting of the proxies have been properly maintained;
4. Prepare a written report for each client regarding compliance with the Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures; and
5. Maintain an internal list of Interested Persons.
PROXIES AND CLASS ACTION LAWSUITS
WHR will be required to take action and render advice with respect to voting of proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which assets of the Account may be invested from time to time. However, WHR will not take any action or render any advice with respect to any securities held in the Account, which are named in or subject to class action lawsuits. WHR may, only at the client's request, offer clients advice regarding corporate actions.
PART C: OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 28. EXHIBITS:
(a) The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II's (the "Registrant") Amended and
Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated July 24, 1992, as
amended and restated February 18, 2004 and August 10, 2004, is
incorporated herein by reference to exhibit (a)(3) of Post-Effective
Amendment No. 36 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form
N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the U.S. Securities Exchange
Commission (the "SEC") via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-04- 000490
on September 17, 2004.
(b) Registrant's Amended and Restated By-laws are incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 89 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-09-000618 on
December 3, 2009.
(c) Not Applicable.
(d)(1) Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement dated May 31, 2000,
as amended and restated as of May 21, 2001, between the Registrant and
Horizon Advisers, relating to the Hancock Horizon Family of Funds, is
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(16) of Post- Effective
Amendment No. 31 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form
N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No.
0001135428-01-500044 on May 31, 2001.
(d)(2) Revised Schedule, as last amended August 12, 2008, to the Amended and
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement dated May 31, 2000, as amended
and restated as of May 21, 2001, between the Registrant and Horizon
Advisers, relating to Hancock Horizon Family of Funds, is incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No.
82 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No.
33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No.
0001135428-08-000506 on November 26, 2008.
(d)(3) Form of Expense Limitation Agreement dated May 31, 2009 between the
Registrant and Horizon Advisers, relating to the Hancock Horizon
Strategic Income Bond Fund, Hancock Horizon Burkenroad Fund, Hancock
Horizon Government Money Market Fund (formerly, the Treasury
Securities Money Market Fund), Hancock Horizon Diversified
International Fund, and Hancock Horizon Quantitative Long/Short Fund,
is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(3) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 86 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-09-000212 on May 29, 2009.
(d)(4) Expense Limitation Agreement dated May 31, 2008 between the Registrant
and Horizon Advisers, relating to the Hancock Horizon Prime Money
Market Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(4) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000222 on May 30, 2008.
(d)(5) Form of Expense Waiver Reimbursement Agreement between the Registrant
and Horizon Advisers, relating to the Hancock Horizon Growth Fund and
the Hancock Horizon Value Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit (d)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 86 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-09-000212 on May 29, 2009.
(d)(6) Sub-Advisory Agreement dated August 15, 2008 between Horizon Advisers
and Earnest Partners, LLC, relating to the Hancock Horizon Diversified
International Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit
(d)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 83 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-09-000036 on February 5,
2009.
(d)(7) Investment Advisory Agreement dated October 24, 2008 between the
Registrant and Champlain Investment Partners, LLC, relating to the
Champlain Small Company Fund and the Champlain Mid Cap Fund is filed
herewith.
(d)(8) Expense Limitation Agreement between the Registrant and Champlain
Investment Partners, LLC, relating to the Champlain Small Company Fund
and the Champlain Mid Cap Fund, to be filed by amendment.
(d)(9) Investment Advisory Agreement dated December 21, 2004 between the
Registrant and W.H. Reaves & Co. Inc., relating to the Reaves Select
Research Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(6)
of Post-Effective Amendment No. 40 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-05-000155 on March 31, 2005.
(d)(10) Investment Advisory Agreement dated June 7, 2007 between the
Registrant and Hennion & Walsh Asset Management, Inc., relating to the
SmartGrowth Family of Funds, is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit (d)(12) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 65 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001116502-07-002196 on November 28,
2007.
(d)(11) Expense Limitation Reimbursement Agreement dated May 31, 2010 between
the Registrant and Hennion & Walsh Asset Management, Inc., relating to
the SmartGrowth Family of Funds, is incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit (d)(11) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 93 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-10-000204 on May
28, 2010.
(d)(12) Investment Advisory Agreement dated May 5, 2008 between the Registrant
and Frost Investment Advisors, LLC, relating to the Frost Family of
Funds, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(16) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000222 on May 30, 2008.
(d)(13) Sub-Advisory Agreement dated June 16, 2010 between Frost Investment
Advisors, LLC and Artio Global Management, LLC, relating to the Frost
Small Cap Equity Fund, is filed herewith.
(d)(14) Sub-Advisory Agreement dated June 16, 2010 between Frost Investment
Advisors, LLC and Cambiar Investors, LLC, relating to the Frost Small
Cap Equity Fund, is filed herewith.
(d)(15) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement dated April 28, 2008 between Frost
Investment Advisors, LLC and Kempner Capital Management, Inc.,
relating to the Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and
Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (d)(18) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000222 on May
30, 2008.
(d)(16) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement dated April 28, 2008 between Frost
Investment Advisors, LLC and Thornburg Investment Management, Inc.,
relating to the Frost International Equity Fund, is incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(19) of Post-Effective Amendment No.
76 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No.
033-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No.
0001135428-08-000222 on May 30, 2008.
(d)(17) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement dated April 28, 2008 between Frost
Investment Advisors, LLC and Luther King Capital Management
Corporation, relating to the Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and
Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund, is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (d)(20) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000222 on May
30, 2008.
(d)(18) Expense Limitation Agreement dated May 5, 2008 between the Registrant
and Frost Investment Advisors, LLC, relating to the Frost Family of
Funds, to be filed by amendment.
(d)(19) Investment Advisory Agreement dated April 30, 2008 between the
Registrant and GRT Capital Partners, LLC, relating to the GRT Funds,
is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(22)
of Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000222 on May 30, 2008.
(d)(20) Revised Schedule A to the Investment Advisory Agreement dated April
30, 2008 between the Registrant and GRT Capital Partners, LLC,
is filed herewith.
(d)(21) Expense Limitation Agreement dated April 30, 2008 between the
Registrant and GRT Capital Partners, LLC, relating to the GRT Value
Fund, to be filed by amendment.
(d)(22) Investment Advisory Agreement between the Registrant and Lowry Hill
Investment Advisors, Inc., relating to the Clear River Fund, is
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(27) of Post-Effective
Amendment No. 86 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form
N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No.
0001135428-09-000212 on May 29, 2009.
(d)(23) Expense Limitation Agreement between the Registrant and Lowry Hill
Investment Advisors, Inc., relating to the Clear River Fund, to be
filed by amendment.
(d)(24) Form of Investment Advisory Agreement between the Registrant and
NorthPointe Capital, LLC, relating to the NorthPointe Family of Funds,
is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(29) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 83 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-09- 000036 on February 5, 2009.
(e)(1) Distribution Agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and restated
as of November 14, 2005, between the Registrant and SEI Investments
Distribution Co. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(1)
of Post-Effective Amendment No. 48 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-06-000209 on May 31, 2006.
(e)(2) Amendment No. 1 to the Distribution Agreement dated January 28, 1993,
as amended and restated as of November 14, 2005, to be filed by
amendment.
(e)(3) Revised Form of Sub-Distribution and Servicing Agreement for SEI
Investments Distribution Co. is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit (e)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000222 on May 30, 2008.
(f) Not Applicable.
(g)(1) Custody Agreement dated May 31, 2000 between the Registrant and
Hancock Bank and Trust, relating to the Hancock Horizon Family of
Funds, is incorporated herein by reference to exhibit (g) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 35 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N- 1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-04-000232 on May 28, 2004.
(g)(2) Revised Appendix B to the Custody Agreement dated May 31, 2000 between
the Registrant and Hancock Bank and Trust, relating to the Hancock
Horizon Family of Funds, to be filed by amendment.
(g)(3) Mutual Fund Custody Agreement dated September 1, 2004 between the
Registrant and Wachovia Bank, National Association (now, U.S. Bank,
N.A.), relating to the Champlain Family of Funds, Reaves Select
Research Fund, SmartGrowth Family of Funds, Frost Family of Funds, and
GRT Family of Funds, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit
(g)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 38 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33- 50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-05-000029 on January 14,
2005.
(g)(4) Revised Amendment and Attachment C, relating to the to the Mutual Fund
Custody Agreement dated September 1, 2004 between the Registrant and
U.S. Bank, N.A. (formerly, Wachovia Bank, N.A.), relating to the
Champlain Family of Funds, Reaves Select Research Fund, SmartGrowth
Family of Funds, Frost Family of Funds, and GRT Family of Funds, to be
filed by amendment.
(g)(5) Custodian Agreement dated November 19, 2007 between the Registrant and
Union Bank of California, relating to the NorthPointe Family of Funds,
is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (g)(5) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 66 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-07- 000581 on December 28, 2007.
(g)(6) Appendices A, B and C, as last amended February 18, 2009, to the
Custodian Agreement dated November 19, 2007 between the Registrant and
Union Bank of California, to be filed by amendment.
(g)(7) Custodian Agreement between the Registrant and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.,
relating to the Clear River Fund, to be filed by amendment.
(h)(1) Administration Agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and
restated as of November 12, 2002, by and between the Registrant and
SEI Investments Global Funds Services is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (h)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-03-000338 on May
30, 2003.
(h)(2) Amended Schedule dated February 1, 2006 to the Administration
Agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12,
2002, between the Registrant and SEI Investments Global Funds
Services, relating to the Hancock Horizon Family of Funds, is
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(3) of Post-Effective
Amendment No. 54 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form
N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No.
0001135428-06-000517 on November 28, 2006.
(h)(3) Amended Schedule to the Administration Agreement dated January 28,
1993, as amended and restated as of November 12, 2002, by and between
the Registrant and SEI Investments Global Funds Services, relating to
the Hancock Diversified International and Quantitative Long/Short
Funds, to be filed by amendment.
(h)(4) Amendment and Attachment 1 dated November 30, 2004 to the
Administration Agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and
restated November 12, 2002, between the Registrant and SEI Investments
Global Funds Services, relating to the Champlain Small Company Fund,
is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(4) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-05-000569 on September 29, 2005.
(h)(5) Amendment and Attachment 1 to the Administration Agreement dated
January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12, 2002, between
the Registrant and SEI Investments Global Funds Services, relating to
the Champlain Mid Cap Fund, to be filed by amendment.
(h)(6) Amendment and Attachment 1 to the Administration Agreement dated
January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12, 2002, between
the Registrant and SEI Investments Global Funds Services, relating to
the Reaves Select Research Fund, to be filed by amendment.
(h)(7) Amendment and Attachment 1 dated May 31, 2007 to the Administration
Agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12,
2002, between the Registrant and SEI Investments Global Funds
Services, relating to the SmartGrowth Family of Funds, is incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(9) of Post-Effective Amendment No.
59 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No.
33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No.
0001135428-07-000217 on June 15, 2007.
(h)(8) Amendment and Attachment 1 dated April 25, 2008 to the Administration
Agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12,
2002, between the Registrant and SEI Investments Global Funds
Services, relating to the Frost Family of Funds, is incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment No.
76 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000222 on May 30, 2008.
(h)(9) Amendment and Attachment 1 dated April 28, 2008 to the Administration
Agreement dated January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12,
2002, between the Registrant and SEI Investments Global Funds
Services, relating to the GRT Value Fund, is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (h)(11) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000222 on May
30, 2008.
(h)(10) Amendment and Attachment 1 to the Administration Agreement dated
January 28, 1993, as amended and restated November 12, 2002, between
the Registrant and SEI Investments Global Funds Services, relating to
the GRT Absolute Return Fund, to be filed by amendment.
(h)(11) Amendment and Attachment 1 dated January 27, 2009 to the
Administration Agreement dated January 18, 1993, as amended and
restated November 12, 2002, between the Registrant and SEI Investments
Global Funds Services, relating to the Clear River Fund, is
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(13) of Post-Effective
Amendment No. 84 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form
N-1A (File No. 033-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No.
0001135428-09-000090 on March 2, 2009.
(h)(12) Amendment and Attachment 1 to the Administration Agreement dated
January 18, 1993, as amended and restated November 12, 2002, between
the Registrant and SEI Investments Global Funds Services, relating to
the NorthPointe Family of Funds, to be filed by amendment.
(h)(13) Shareholder Services Plan dated May 31, 2000, relating to the Hancock
Horizon Family of Funds, is incorporated herein by reference to
exhibit (h)(15) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0000912057-00-026908 on May 31, 2000.
(h)(14) Revised Schedule A as last amended August 12, 2008 to the Shareholder
Services Plan dated May 31, 2000, relating to the Hancock Horizon
Family of Funds, is incorporated herein by reference to exhibit
(h)(15) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 82 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000506 on November 26,
2008.
(h)(15) Shareholder Services Plan dated August 9, 2005 is incorporated herein
by reference to Exhibit (h)(12) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to
the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No.
33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-05-
000569 on September 29, 2005.
(h)(16) Revised Schedule A as last amended May 18, 2010 to the Shareholder
Services Plan dated August 9, 2005 is incorporated herein by reference
to exhibit (h)(15) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 93 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33- 50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-10-000204 on May
28, 2010.
(h)(17) Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated May 31, 2000 between the
Registrant and Hancock Bank and Trust is incorporated herein by
reference to exhibit (e)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 35 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33- 50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-04-000232 on May
28, 2004.
(h)(18) AML Amendment to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated May
31, 2000 between the Registrant and Hancock Bank and Trust is
incorporated herein by reference to exhibit (e)(3) of Post-Effective
Amendment No. 35 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form
N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No.
0001135428-04-000232 on May 28, 2004.
(h)(19) Amendment dated September 1, 2003 to the Transfer Agency and Service
Agreement dated May 31, 2000 between the Registrant and Hancock Bank
and Trust is incorporated herein by reference to exhibit (e)(4) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 35 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428- 04-000232 on May 28, 2004.
(h)(20) Agency Agreement dated August 10, 2004 between the Registrant and DST
Systems, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(5) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-05-000569 on
September 29, 2005.
(h)(21) Revised Exhibits C and D to the Agency Agreement dated August 10, 2004
between the Registrant and DST Systems, Inc. to be filed by amendment.
(h)(22) Amendment to the Agency Agreement dated August 10, 2004 between the
Registrant and DST Systems, Inc., as approved by the Board of Trustees
in February 2010, to be filed by amendment.
(h)(23) Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated May 31, 2007 between the
Registrant and UMB Fund Services, Inc. is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (h)(19) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 66 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33- 50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-07-000581 on
December 28, 2007.
(h)(24) Revised Schedules A and C to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement
dated May 31, 2007 between the Registrant and UMB Fund Services, Inc.
to be filed by amendment.
(i)(1) Opinion and Consent of Counsel, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP, relating
to Shares of the Hancock Horizon Government Money Market Fund, Hancock
Horizon Strategic Income Fund, Hancock Horizon Value Fund, Hancock
Horizon Growth Fund, Hancock Horizon Burkenroad Fund, Hancock Horizon
Diversified International Fund, Hancock Horizon Quantitative
Long/Short Fund, SmartGrowth([R]) Lipper([R]) Optimal Conservative
Index Fund, SmartGrowth([R]) Lipper([R]) Optimal Moderate Index Fund
and SmartGrowth([R]) Lipper([R]) Optimal Growth Index Fund, is
incorporated herein by reference to exhibit (i)(1) of Post-Effective
Amendment No. 93 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form
N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No.
0001135428-10-000204 on May 28, 2010.
(i)(2) Opinion and Consent of Counsel, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP, relating
to Shares of the Clear River Fund, Champlain Family of Funds, Frost
Family of Funds, GRT Value Fund, and Reaves Select Research Fund to be
filed by amendment.
(i)(3) Opinion and Consent of Counsel, Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, LLP, relating
to Shares of the NorthPointe Family of Funds is incorporated herein by
reference to exhibit (i)(3) of Post- Effective Amendment No. 91 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-10-000058 on
March 1, 2010.
(i)(4) Opinion and Consent of Counsel, relating to Shares of the GRT Absolute
Return Fund, to be filed by amendment.
(j)(1) Consent of independent registered public accountants, Ernst & Young
LLP, to be filed by amendment.
(j)(2) Consent of independent registered public accountants, Briggs, Bunting
& Dougherty, LLP, to be filed by amendment.
(k) Not Applicable.
(l) Not Applicable.
(m)(1) Distribution Plan (compensation type) dated May 31, 2000, as amended
November 16, 2004, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)
of Post-Effective Amendment No. 38 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-05-000029 on January 14, 2005.
(m)(2) Schedule A as last amended August 12, 2008, to the Distribution Plan
dated May 31, 2000, as amended November 16, 2004, relating to the
Hancock Horizon Family of Funds, is incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit (m)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001354488-08-001546 on
September 5, 2008.
(m)(3) Schedule B dated November 16, 2004, as amended July 24, 2006, to the
Distribution Plan dated May 31, 2000, as amended November 16, 2004,
relating to the Reaves Select Research Fund, is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (m)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 57 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-07-000100 on
March 7, 2007.
(m)(4) Schedule D dated February 22, 2007, to the Distribution Plan dated
May 31, 2000, as amended November 16, 2004, relating to the
SmartGrowth Family of Funds, is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit (m)(7) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 65 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001116502-07-002196 on November 28,
2007.
(m)(5) Schedule F dated February 19, 2008, to the Distribution Plan dated May
31, 2000, as amended November 16, 2004, relating to the GRT Value
Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(7) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 70 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08- 000097 on February 28, 2008.
(m)(6) Schedule G dated March 10, 2008, to the Distribution Plan dated
May 31, 2000, as amended November 16, 2004, relating to the Frost
Family of Funds, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(8)
of Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08- 000142 on April 1, 2008.
(m)(7) Distribution Plan (reimbursement type) as approved by the Board of
Trustees on February 23, 2005 is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit (m)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 40 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-05-000155 on March 31,
2005.
(m)(8) Revised Schedule A dated February 23, 2005, as amended May 13, 2008,
to the Distribution Plan approved by the Board of Trustees on February
23, 2005, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(10) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 76 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000222 on May 30, 2008.
(n) Amended and Restated Rule 18f-3 Multiple Class Plan dated February
2007, including Schedules and Certificates of Class Designation
thereto, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (n) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 93 to the Registrant's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-10-000204 on May 28, 2010.
(o) Not Applicable.
(p)(1) Registrant's Code of Ethics is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit (p)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 65 to the Registrant's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33- 50718), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001116502-07-002196 on November 28,
2007.
(p)(2) SEI Investments Distribution Co. Code of Ethics dated January 12, 2009
is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(18) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 116 to The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund's
Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-42484), filed with
the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-09-000641 on December 18,
2009.
(p)(3) Hancock Bank and Trust Code of Ethics is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (p)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 58 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-07-000187 on May
31, 2007.
(p)(4) Earnest Partners, LLC Code of Ethics, is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (p)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 82 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000506 on
November 26, 2008.
(p)(5) Champlain Investment Partners, LLC Revised Code of Ethics dated
January 2010 is filed herewith.
(p)(6) W.H. Reaves & Co., Inc. Code of Ethics is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (p)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 66 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-07-000581 on
December 28, 2007.
(p)(7) Hennion & Walsh Asset Management, Inc. Code of Ethics is incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment
No. 57 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File
No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-
07-000100 on March 7, 2007.
(p)(8) Frost Investment Advisors, LLC Code of Ethics is incorporated herein
by reference to exhibit (p)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 88 to
the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No.
33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-09-
000579 on November 25, 2009.
(p)(9) Artio Global Management, LLC Code of Ethics to be filed by amendment.
(p)(10) Cambiar Investors, LLC Revised Code of Ethics dated April 2008 is
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(6) of Post-Effective
Amendment No. 107 to the Advisors' Inner Circle Fund's Registration
Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 33-42484), filed with the SEC via
EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-08-000342 on August 28, 2008.
(p)(11) Kempner Capital Management, Inc. Code of Ethics is incorporated herein
by reference to exhibit (p)(12) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 88 to
the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No.
33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-09-
000579 on November 25, 2009.
(p)(12) Thornburg Investment Management, Inc. Revised Code of Ethics dated
March 2010 is filed herewith.
(p)(13) Luther King Capital Management Corporation Code of Ethics is
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(15) of Post-Effective
Amendment No. 71 to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form
N-1A (File No. 33-50718), filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No.
0001135428- 08-000142 on April 1, 2008.
(p)(14) GRT Capital Partners, LLC Code of Ethics to be filed by amendment.
(p)(15) Lowry Hill Investment Advisors, Inc. Code of Ethics to be filed by
amendment.
(p)(16) NorthPointe Capital, LLC Code of Ethics is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit (p)(18) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 83 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-50718),
filed with the SEC via EDGAR Accession No. 0001135428-09-000036 on
February 5, 2009.
ITEM 29. PERSONS CONTROLLED BY OR UNDER COMMON CONTROL WITH REGISTRANT:
Not Applicable.
ITEM 30. INDEMNIFICATION:
Article VIII of the Agreement and Declaration of Trust filed as Exhibit (a) to the Registrant's Registration Statement is incorporated herein by reference. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act"), may be permitted to trustees, directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant by the Registrant pursuant to the Declaration of Trust or otherwise, the Registrant is aware that in the opinion of the SEC, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the 1933 Act and, therefore, is unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by trustees, directors, officers or controlling persons of the Registrant in connection with the successful defense of any act, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such trustees, directors, officers or controlling persons in connection with the shares being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question
whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the 1933 Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issues.
ITEM 31. BUSINESS AND OTHER CONNECTIONS OF THE INVESTMENT ADVISERS:
The following lists any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature in which each investment adviser (including sub-advisers), and each director, officer or partner of that investment adviser (or sub-adviser), is or has been engaged within the last two fiscal years for his or her own account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner, or trustee. Unless noted below, none of the investment advisers (or sub-advisers), and/or directors, officers or partners of each investment adviser (or sub-adviser), is or has been engaged within the last two fiscal years in any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature for his or her own account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner or trustee.
ARTIO GLOBAL MANAGEMENT, LLC
Artio Global Management, LLC ("Artio Global") serves as investment sub-adviser for the Registrant's Frost Small Cap Equity Fund. The principal address of Artio is 330 Madison Avenue, Floor 12A, New York, NY 10017.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, [none of the directors, officers or partners of Artio Global is or has been engaged in any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature for his or her own account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner or trustee.] [to be confirmed/completed by amendment].
CAMBIAR INVESTORS LLC
Cambiar Investors LLC ("Cambiar") serves as the investment adviser to the Frost Small Cap Equity Fund. The principal address of Cambiar is 2401 East Second Street, Suite 400, Denver, Colorado 80206. Cambiar is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The information listed below is for the fiscal years ended April 30, 2009 and 2010.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, none of the directors,
officers or partners of Cambiar is or has been engaged in any other business,
profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature for his or her own
account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner or trustee.
[to be confirmed/completed by amendment].
CHAMPLAIN INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LLC
Champlain Investment Partners, LLC ("Champlain") serves as the investment adviser for the Registrant's Champlain Small Company Fund and Champlain Mid Cap Fund. The principal address of Champlain is 346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, Vermont 05401. Champlain is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2008 and 2009, none of the directors,
officers or partners of Champlain is or has been engaged in any other business,
profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature for his or her own
account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner or trustee.
[to be confirmed/completed by amendment].
EARNEST PARTNERS, LLC
Earnest Partners, LLC ("Earnest") serves as investment sub-adviser for the Registrant's Hancock Horizon Diversified International Fund. The principal business address for Earnest is 1180 Peachtree Street, Suite 2300, Atlanta, GA 30309. Earnest is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The information listed below is for the fiscal years ended January 31, 2009 and 2010. [Table [to be confirmed/completed by amendment].
FROST INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC ("Frost") serves as investment adviser for the Registrant's Frost Core Growth Equity Fund, Frost Dividend Value Equity Fund, Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund, Frost Small Cap Equity Fund, Frost International Equity Fund, Frost Low Duration Bond Fund, Frost Total Return Bond Fund, Frost Municipal Bond Fund, Frost Low Duration Municipal Bond Fund, Frost Kempner Treasury and Income Fund, Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and the Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund, and Frost Strategic Balanced Fund. The principal business address for Frost is 100 West Houston Street, San Antonio, Texas 78205-1414. Frost is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The information listed below is for the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010. [To be updated by amendment].
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NAME AND POSITION WITH INVESTMENT ADVISER NAME OF OTHER COMPANY CONNECTION WITH OTHER COMPANY --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tim Altree, Chief Compliance A&S Capital Management, President, Chief Compliance Officer Officer and Managing Director LLC and Managing Member -------------------------------------------------------------- Laffer Associates Executive Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer and Director -------------------------------------------------------------- Laffer Advisors President, Chief Compliance Officer and Supervising Principal --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
GRT CAPITAL PARTNERS, LLC
GRT Capital Partner, LLC ("GRT") serves as investment adviser for the Registrant's GRT Value Fund and GRT Absolute Return Fund. The principal business address for GRT is 50 Milk Street, Boston, 21st Floor, Massachusetts 02109. GRT is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The information listed below is for the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010. [To be updated by amendment].
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NAME AND POSITION WITH INVESTMENT ADVISER NAME OF OTHER COMPANY CONNECTION WITH OTHER COMPANY ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rudolph K. Kluiber, Managing Steinway Musical Director Member and Investment Adviser Instruments, Inc. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
HENNION & WALSH ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC.
Hennion & Walsh Asset Management, Inc. ("H&W") serves as the investment adviser for the Registrant's SmartGrowth Lipper Optimal Conservative Index Fund, SmartGrowth Lipper Optimal Moderate Index Fund, and SmartGrowth Lipper Optimal Growth Index Fund. The principal business address for H&W is 2001 Route 46, Waterview Plaza, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054. H&W is an investment adviser
registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The information listed below is for the fiscal years ended January 31, 2009 and 2010.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NAME AND POSITION WITH INVESTMENT ADVISER NAME OF OTHER COMPANY CONNECTION WITH OTHER COMPANY ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- William Walsh, President Hennion & Walsh, Inc. Officer ------------------------------------------------------- Hennion & Walsh Wealth Officer Advisors ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Richard Hennion, Executive Hennion & Walsh, Inc. Officer Vice President ------------------------------------------------------- Hennion & Walsh Wealth Officer Advisors ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Debbie Williams, Chief Hennion & Walsh, Inc. Officer Financial Officer ------------------------------------------------------- Hennion & Walsh Wealth Officer Advisors ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Al Vermitsky, Chief Hennion & Walsh, Inc. Officer Compliance Officer ------------------------------------------------------- Hennion & Walsh Wealth Officer Advisors ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Kevin Mahn, Chief Investment Hennion & Walsh, Inc. Employee Officer & Portfolio Manager ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
HORIZON ADVISERS
Horizon Advisers serves as the investment adviser for the Registrant's Hancock Horizon Family of Funds (Strategic Income Bond Fund, Value Fund, Growth Fund, Burkenroad Fund, Government Money Market Fund, Diversified International Fund and Quantitative Long/Short Fund). The principal address of Horizon Advisers is One Hancock Plaza, Post Office Box 4019, Gulfport, Mississippi 39502-4019. Horizon Advisers is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The information listed below is for the fiscal years ended January 31, 2009 and 2010.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NAME AND POSITION WITH INVESTMENT ADVISER NAME OF OTHER COMPANY CONNECTION WITH OTHER COMPANY ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Kendra Cain, Chief Compliance Hancock Investment Compliance Director Officer Services, Inc. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
KEMPNER CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, INC.
Kempner Capital Management, Inc. ("Kempner") serves as the sub-adviser for the
Registrant's Frost Kempner Multi-Cap Deep Value Equity Fund and Frost Kempner
Treasury and Income Fund. The principal address of Kempner is 2201 Market
Street, 12th Floor FNB Building, Galveston, Texas, 77550-1503. Kempner is an
investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The
information listed below is for the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010.
[To be updated by amendment].
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NAME AND POSITION WITH INVESTMENT ADVISER NAME OF OTHER COMPANY CONNECTION WITH OTHER COMPANY -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Harris L. Kempner, Jr., H. Kempner Trust Association Trustee President -------------------------------------------------------------- Legacy Holding Company Director -------------------------------------------------------------- Balmorhea Ranches Director -------------------------------------------------------------- Frost Bank-Galveston Advisory Director -------------------------------------------------------------- Cullen Frost Bankers Inc.- Director Emeritus San Antonio -------------------------------------------------------------- Kempner Securities GP, LLC General Partner -------------------------------------------------------------- Galveston Finance GP, LLC General Partner -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
LOWRY HILL INVESTMENT ADVISOR, INC.
Lowry Hill Investment Advisors, Inc. ("Lowry Hill") serves as investment adviser for the Registrant's Clear River Fund. The principal address of Lowry Hill is 90 South Seventh Street, Suite 5300, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402. Lowry Hill is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The information listed below is for the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010. [To be updated by amendment].
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NAME AND POSITION WITH INVESTMENT ADVISER NAME OF OTHER COMPANY CONNECTION WITH OTHER COMPANY --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Thomas Gunderson, FAF Advisors Managing Director Investment Principal --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
LUTHER KING CAPITAL MANAGEMENT CORPORATION
Luther King Capital Management Corporation ("Luther King") serves as the sub-adviser for the Registrant's Frost LKCM Multi-Cap Equity Fund and Frost LKCM Small-Mid Cap Equity Fund. The principal address of Luther King is 301 Commerce Street, Suite 1600, Fort Worth, Texas, 76102. Luther King is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, none of the directors, officers or partners of Luther King is or has been engaged in any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature for his or her own account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner or trustee. [To be confirmed/updated by amendment].
NORTHPOINTE CAPITAL, LLC
NorthPointe Capital, LLC (the "NorthPointe") serves as the investment adviser for the Registrant's NorthPointe Small Cap Growth Fund, the NorthPointe Small Cap Value Fund, the NorthPointe Value Opportunities Fund and the NorthPointe Micro Cap Equity Fund. The Adviser's principal place of business is located at 101 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 745, Troy Michigan 48084.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2008 and 2009, none of the directors, officers or partners of NorthPointe is or has been engaged in any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature for his or her own account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner or trustee.
THORNBURG INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT, INC.
Thornburg Investment Management, Inc. ("Thornburg") serves as the sub-adviser for the Registrant's Frost International Equity Fund. The principal address of Thornburg is 2300 North Ridgetop Road, Santa Fe, New Mexico, 87506. Thornburg is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, none of the directors, officers or partners of Thornburg is or has been engaged in any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature
for his or her own account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner or trustee. [To be confirmed/updated by amendment].
W. H. REAVES & CO., INC.
W. H. Reaves & Co., Inc. ("WH Reaves") serves as the investment adviser for the Registrant's Reaves Select Research Fund. The principal business address of WH Reaves is 10 Exchange Place, 18th Floor, Jersey City, NJ 07302. WH Reaves is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
For the fiscal years ended July 31, 2009 and 2010, none of the directors,
officers or partners of Reaves is or has been engaged in any other business,
profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature for his or her own
account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner or trustee.
[To be confirmed/updated by amendment]
ITEM 32. PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITERS:
(a) Furnish the name of each investment company (other than the Registrant) for which each principal underwriter currently distributing the securities of the Registrant also acts as a principal underwriter, distributor or investment adviser.
Registrant's distributor, SEI Investments Distribution Co. (the "Distributor"), acts as distributor for:
SEI Daily Income Trust July 15, 1982 SEI Liquid Asset Trust November 29, 1982 SEI Tax Exempt Trust December 3, 1982 SEI Institutional Managed Trust January 22, 1987 SEI Institutional International Trust August 30, 1988 The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund November 14, 1991 The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II January 28, 1993 Bishop Street Funds January 27, 1995 SEI Asset Allocation Trust April 1, 1996 SEI Institutional Investments Trust June 14, 1996 Oak Associates Funds February 27, 1998 CNI Charter Funds April 1, 1999 iShares Inc. January 28, 2000 iShares Trust April 25, 2000 Optique Funds, Inc. (f/k/a JohnsonFamily Funds, Inc.) November 1, 2000 Causeway Capital Management Trust September 20, 2001 BlackRock Funds III (f/k/a Barclays Global Investors Funds) March 31, 2003 SEI Opportunity Fund, LP October 1, 2003 The Arbitrage Funds May 17, 2005 The Turner Funds January 1, 2006 ProShares Trust November 14, 2005 Community Reinvestment Act Qualified Investment Fund January 8, 2007 SEI Alpha Strategy Portfolios, LP June 29, 2007 TD Asset Management USA Funds July 25, 2007 SEI Structured Credit Fund, LP July 31, 2007 Wilshire Mutual Funds, Inc. July 12, 2008 |
Wilshire Variable Insurance Trust July 12, 2008 Forward Funds August 14, 2008 Global X Funds October 24, 2008 FaithShares Trust August 7, 2009 Schwab Strategic Trust October 12, 2009 |
The Distributor provides numerous financial services to investment managers, pension plan sponsors, and bank trust departments. These services include portfolio evaluation, performance measurement and consulting services ("Funds Evaluation") and automated execution, clearing and settlement of securities transactions ("MarketLink").
(b) Furnish the Information required by the following table with respect to each director, officer or partner of each principal underwriter named in the answer to Item 20 of Part B. Unless otherwise noted, the business address of each director or officer is Oaks, PA 19456.
POSITION AND OFFICE POSITIONS AND OFFICES NAME WITH UNDERWRITER WITH REGISTRANT ---- ------------------- --------------------- William M. Doran Director -- Edward D. Loughlin Director -- Wayne M. Withrow Director -- Kevin Barr President & Chief Executive Officer -- Maxine Chou Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operations -- Officer, & Treasurer Karen LaTourette Chief Compliance Officer, Anti-Money Laundering Officer & Assistant Secretary -- John C. Munch General Counsel & Secretary -- Mark J. Held Senior Vice President -- Lori L. White Vice President & Assistant Secretary -- John Coary Vice President & Assistant Secretary -- John Cronin Vice President -- Robert Silvestri Vice President -- |
ITEM 33. LOCATION OF ACCOUNTS AND RECORDS:
Books or other documents required to be maintained by Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, and the rules promulgated thereunder, are maintained as follows:
(a) With respect to Rules 31a-1(a); 31a-1(b)(1); (2)(a) and (b); (3); (6);
(8); (12); and 31a-1(d), the required books and records are maintained at
the offices of the Registrant's custodians:
Hancock Bank and Trust
One Hancock Plaza
P.O. Box 4019
Gulfport, Mississippi 39502
U.S. Bank, National Association
800 Nicollett Mall
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402
Union Bank of California, National Association
475 Sansome Street
15(th) Floor
San Francisco, California 94111
Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
608 2(nd) Avenue South
9(th) Floor
Minneapolis, MN, 55479
(b)/(c) With respect to Rules 31a-1(a); 31a-1(b)(1),(4); (2)(C) and (D);
(4); (5); (6); (8); (9); (10); (11); and 31a-1(f), the required books and
records are maintained at the offices of the Registrant's administrator:
SEI Investment Global Funds Services One Freedom Valley Drive Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
(c) With respect to Rules 31a-1(b)(5), (6), (9) and (10) and 31a-1(f), the required books and records are maintained at the principal offices of the Registrant's advisers:
Artio Global Management, LLC
330 Madison Avenue
Floor 12A
New York, NY 10017
Cambiar Investors LLC
2401 East Second Street
Suite 400
Denver, Colorado 80206
Champlain Investment Partners, LLC
346 Shelburne Road
Burlington, Vermont 05401
Earnest Partners, LLC
1180 Peachtree Street
Suite 2300
Atlanta, Georgia 30309
Frost Investment Advisors, LLC
100 West Houston Street
15th Floor Tower
San Antonio, Texas 78205-1414
GRT Capital Partners, LLC 50 Milk Street, 21st Floor Boston, Massachusetts 02109
Hennion & Walsh Asset Management, Inc.
2001 Route 46
Waterview Plaza
Parsippany, New Jersey 07054
Horizon Advisers
One Hancock Plaza
P.O. Box 4019
Gulfport, Mississippi 39502
Kempner Capital Management, Inc. 2201 Market Street, 12th Floor FNB Building Galveston, Texas 77550-1503
Lowry Hill Investment Advisors, Inc. 90 South Seventh Street, Suite 5300 Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402
Luther King Capital Management Corporation 301 Commerce Street, Suite 1600 Fort Worth, Texas 76102-4140
NorthPointe Capital, LLC 101 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 745 Troy Michigan 48084
Thornburg Investment Management, Inc. 119 East Marcy Street, Suite 202 Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501-2046
W.H. Reaves & Co., Inc. 10 Exchange Place, 18th Floor Jersey City, New Jersey 07302
ITEM 34. MANAGEMENT SERVICES:
None.
ITEM 35. UNDERTAKINGS:
None.
NOTICE
A copy of the Agreement and Declaration of Trust for The Advisors' Inner Circle Fund II is on file with the Secretary of State of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and notice is hereby given that this Registration Statement has been executed on behalf of the Trust by an officer of the Trust as an officer and by its Trustees as trustees and not individually and the obligations of or arising out of this Registration Statement are not binding upon any of the Trustees, officers, or Shareholders individually but are binding only upon the assets and property of the Trust.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act"), and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 95 to Registration Statement No. 033-50718 to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Oaks, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania on the 30th day of September, 2010.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
By: /S/ PHILIP T. MASTERSON ----------------------------- Philip T. Masterson, President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Amendment to the Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacity and on the dates indicated.
* Trustee September 30, 2010 ----------------------------- Charles E. Carlbom * Trustee September 30, 2010 ----------------------------- John K. Darr * Trustee September 30, 2010 ----------------------------- William M. Doran * Trustee September 30, 2010 ----------------------------- Mitchell A. Johnson * Trustee September 30, 2010 ----------------------------- Betty L. Krikorian * Trustee September 30, 2010 ----------------------------- Robert A. Nesher * Trustee September 30, 2010 ----------------------------- James M. Storey * Trustee September 30, 2010 ----------------------------- George J. Sullivan, Jr. /S/ PHILIP T.MASTERSON President September 30, 2010 ----------------------------- Philip T. Masterson * Treasurer, Controller & September 30, 2010 ----------------------------- Chief Financial Officer Michael Lawson *By: /S/ PHILIP T.MASTERSON ------------------------ Philip T. Masterson |
EXHIBIT INDEX EXHIBIT NUMBER DESCRIPTION -------------- ----------- EX-99.D7 Investment Advisory Agreement dated October 24, 2008 between the Registrant and Champlain Investment Partners, LLC EX-99.D13 Sub-Advisory Agreement dated June 16, 2010 between Frost Investment Advisors, LLC and Artio Global Management, LLC EX-99.D14 Sub-Advisory Agreement dated June 16, 2010 between Frost Investment Advisors, LLC and Cambiar Investors, LLC EX-99.D20 Revised Schedule A to the Investment Advisory Agreement dated April 30, 2008 between the Registrant and GRT Capital Partners, LLC EX-99.P5 Champlain Investment Partners, LLC Revised Code of Ethics dated January 2010 EX-99.P12 Thornburg Investment Management, Inc. Revised Code of Ethics dated March 2010 |
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") made as of this 24th day of October, 2008 by and between THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II (the "Trust"), a Massachusetts business trust registered as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), and CHAMPLAIN INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LLC (the "Adviser"), a Delaware limited liability corporation with its principal place of business at 346 Shelburne Road, Burlington, Vermont 05401.
W I T N E S S E T H
WHEREAS, the Board of Trustees (the "Board") of the Trust has selected the Adviser to act as investment adviser to the Trust on behalf of the series set forth on Schedule A to this Agreement (each a "Fund" and collectively, the "Funds"), as such Schedule may be amended from time to time upon mutual agreement of the parties, and to provide certain related services, as more fully set forth below, and to perform such services under the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and benefits set forth herein, the Trust and the Adviser do hereby agree as follows:
1. THE ADVISER'S SERVICES.
(a) DISCRETIONARY INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES. The Adviser shall act as investment adviser with respect to the Funds. In such capacity, the Adviser shall, subject to the supervision of the Board, regularly provide the Funds with investment research, advice and supervision and shall furnish continuously an investment program for the Funds, consistent with the respective investment objectives and policies of each Fund. The Adviser shall determine, from time to time, what securities shall be purchased for the Funds, what securities shall be held or sold by the Funds and what portion of the Funds' assets shall be held uninvested in cash, subject always to the provisions of the Trust's Agreement and Declaration of Trust, By-Laws and its registration statement on Form N-1A (the "Registration Statement") under the 1940 Act, and under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), covering Fund shares, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"), and to the investment objectives, policies and restrictions of the Funds, as each of the same shall be from time to time in effect. To carry out such obligations, the Adviser shall exercise full discretion and act for the Funds in the same manner and with the same force and effect as the Funds themselves might or could do with respect to purchases, sales or other transactions, as well as with respect to all other such things necessary or incidental to the furtherance or conduct of such purchases, sales or other transactions. No reference in this Agreement to the Adviser having full discretionary authority over each Fund's investments shall in any way limit the right of the Board, in its sole discretion, to establish or revise policies in connection with the management of a Fund's assets or to otherwise exercise its right to control the overall management of a Fund.
(b) COMPLIANCE. The Adviser agrees to comply with the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act"), the 1933 Act, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act"), the Commodity Exchange Act and the respective rules and regulations thereunder, as applicable, as well as with all other applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations and case law that relate to the services and relationships described hereunder and to the conduct of its business as a registered investment adviser. The Adviser also agrees to comply with the objectives, policies and restrictions set forth in the Registration Statement, as amended or supplemented, of the Funds, and with any policies, guidelines, instructions and procedures approved by the Board and provided to the Adviser. In selecting each Fund's portfolio securities and performing the Adviser's obligations hereunder, the Adviser shall cause the Fund to comply with the diversification and source of income requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), for qualification as a regulated investment company. The Adviser shall maintain compliance procedures that it reasonably believes are adequate to ensure its compliance with the foregoing. No supervisory activity undertaken by the Board shall limit the Adviser's full responsibility for any of the foregoing.
(c) PROXY VOTING. The Board has the authority to determine how proxies with respect to securities that are held by the Funds shall be voted, and the Board has initially determined to delegate the authority and responsibility to vote proxies for the Fund's securities to the Adviser. So long as proxy voting authority for the Fund has been delegated to the Adviser, the Adviser shall exercise its proxy voting responsibilities. The Adviser shall carry out such responsibility in accordance with any instructions that the Board shall provide from time to time, and at all times in a manner consistent with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act and its fiduciary responsibilities to the Trust. The Adviser shall provide periodic reports and keep records relating to proxy voting as the Board may reasonably request or as may be necessary for the Funds to comply with the 1940 Act and other applicable law. Any such delegation of proxy voting responsibility to the Adviser may be revoked or modified by the Board at any time.
The Adviser is authorized to instruct the Funds' custodian and/or broker(s) to forward promptly to the Adviser or designate service provider copies of all proxies and shareholder communications relating to securities held in the portfolio of a Fund (other than materials relating to legal proceedings against a Fund). The Adviser may also instruct the Funds' custodian and/or broker(s) to provide reports of holdings in the portfolio of a Fund. The Adviser has the authority to engage a service provided to assist with administrative functions related to voting Fund proxies. The Trust shall direct the Funds' custodian and/or broker(s) to provide any assistance requested by the Adviser in facilitating the use of a service provider. In no event shall the Adviser have any responsibility to vote proxies that are not received on a timely basis. The Trust acknowledges that the Adviser, consistent with the Adviser's written proxy voting policies and procedures, may refrain from voting a proxy if, in the Adviser's discretion, refraining from voting would be in the best interests of the Funds and their shareholders.
(d) RECORDKEEPING. The Adviser shall not be responsible for the provision of administrative, bookkeeping or accounting services to the Funds, except as otherwise provided herein or as may be necessary for the Adviser to supply to the Trust or its Board the information required to be supplied under this Agreement.
The Adviser shall maintain separate books and detailed records of all matters pertaining to Fund assets advised by the Adviser required by Rule 31a-1 under the 1940 Act (other than those records being maintained by any administrator, custodian or transfer agent appointed by the Funds) relating to its responsibilities provided hereunder with respect to the Funds, and shall preserve such records for the periods and in a manner prescribed therefore by Rule 31a-2 under the 1940 Act (the "Fund Books and Records"). The Fund Books and Records shall be available to the Board at any time upon request, shall be delivered to the Trust upon the termination of this Agreement and shall be available without delay during any day the Trust is open for business.
(e) HOLDINGS INFORMATION AND PRICING. The Adviser shall provide regular reports regarding Fund holdings, and may, on its own initiative, furnish the Trust and its Board from time to time with whatever information the Adviser believes is appropriate for this purpose. The Adviser agrees to notify the Trust promptly if the Adviser reasonably believes that the value of any security held by a Fund may not reflect fair value. The Adviser agrees to provide upon request any pricing information of which the Adviser is aware to the Trust, its Board and/or any Fund pricing agent to assist in the determination of the fair value of any Fund holdings for which market quotations are not readily available or as otherwise required in accordance with the 1940 Act or the Trust's valuation procedures for the purpose of calculating the Fund net asset value in accordance with procedures and methods established by the Board.
(f) COOPERATION WITH AGENTS OF THE TRUST. The Adviser agrees to cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to the Trust, any Trust custodian or foreign sub-custodians, any Trust pricing agents and all other agents and representatives of the Trust with respect to such information regarding the Funds as such entities may reasonably request from time to time in the performance of their obligations, provide prompt responses to reasonable requests made by such persons and establish appropriate interfaces with each so as to promote the efficient exchange of information and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
2. CODE OF ETHICS. The Adviser has adopted a written code of ethics that it reasonably believes complies with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act, which it has provided to the Trust. The Adviser shall ensure that its Access Persons (as defined in the Adviser's Code of Ethics) comply in all material respects with the Adviser's Code of Ethics, as in effect from time to time. Upon request, the Adviser shall provide the Trust with a (i) copy of the Adviser's current Code of Ethics, as in effect from time to time, and (ii) certification that it has adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent Access Persons from engaging in any conduct prohibited by the Adviser's Code of Ethics. Annually, the Adviser shall furnish a written report, which complies with the requirements of Rule 17j-1, concerning the Adviser's Code of
Ethics to the Trust's Board. The Adviser shall respond to requests for information from the Trust as to violations of the Code by Access Persons and the sanctions imposed by the Adviser. The Adviser shall immediately notify the Trust of any material violation of the Code, whether or not such violation relates to a security held by any Fund.
3. INFORMATION AND REPORTING. The Adviser shall provide the Trust and its respective officers with such periodic reports concerning the obligations the Adviser has assumed under this Agreement as the Trust may from time to time reasonably request.
(a) NOTIFICATION OF BREACH / COMPLIANCE REPORTS. The Adviser shall notify the Trust's chief compliance officer immediately upon detection of (i) any material failure to manage any Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and policies or any applicable law; or (ii) any material breach of any of the Funds' or the Adviser's policies, guidelines or procedures. In addition, the Adviser shall provide a quarterly report regarding each Fund's compliance with its investment objectives and policies, applicable law, including, but not limited to the 1940 Act and Subchapter M of the Code, and the Fund's policies, guidelines or procedures as applicable to the Adviser's obligations under this Agreement. The Adviser agrees to correct any such failure promptly and to take any action that the Board may reasonably request in connection with any such breach. Upon request, the Adviser shall also provide the officers of the Trust with supporting certifications in connection with such certifications of Fund financial statements and disclosure controls pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The Adviser will promptly notify the Trust in the event (i) the Adviser is served or otherwise receives notice of any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, at law or in equity, before or by any court, public board, or body, involving the affairs of the Trust (excluding class action suits in which a Fund is a member of the plaintiff class by reason of the Fund's ownership of shares in the defendant) or the compliance by the Adviser with the federal or state securities laws or (ii) an actual change in control of the Adviser resulting in an "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act) has occurred or is otherwise proposed to occur.
(b) BOARD AND FILINGS INFORMATION. The Adviser will also provide the Trust with any information reasonably requested regarding its management of the Funds required for any meeting of the Board, or for any shareholder report, Form N-CSR, Form N-Q, Form N-PX Form N-SAR, amended registration statement, proxy statement, or prospectus supplement to be filed by the Trust with the Commission. The Adviser will make its officers and employees available to meet with the Board from time to time on due notice to review its investment management services to the Funds in light of current and prospective economic and market conditions and shall furnish to the Board such information as may reasonably be necessary in order for the Board to evaluate this Agreement or any proposed amendments thereto.
(c) TRANSACTION INFORMATION. The Adviser shall furnish to the Trust such information concerning portfolio transactions as may be necessary to enable the Trust or its designated agent to perform such compliance testing on the Funds and the Adviser's services as the Trust may, in its sole discretion, determine to be appropriate. The
provision of such information by the Adviser to the Trust or its designated agent in no way relieves the Adviser of its own responsibilities under this Agreement.
4. BROKERAGE.
(a) PRINCIPAL TRANSACTIONS. In connection with purchases or sales of securities for the account of a Fund, neither the Adviser nor any of its directors, officers or employees will act as a principal or agent or receive any commission except as permitted by the 1940 Act.
(b) PLACEMENT OF ORDERS. The Adviser shall arrange for the placing of all orders for the purchase and sale of securities for a Fund's account with brokers or dealers selected by the Adviser. In the selection of such brokers or dealers and the placing of such orders, the Adviser is directed at all times to seek for the Fund the most favorable execution and net price available under the circumstances. It is also understood that it is desirable for the Fund that the Adviser have access to brokerage and research services provided by brokers who may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to the Fund than may result when allocating brokerage to other brokers, consistent with section 28(e) of the 1934 Act and any Commission staff interpretations thereof. Therefore, the Adviser is authorized to place orders for the purchase and sale of securities for a Fund with such brokers, subject to review by the Board from time to time with respect to the extent and continuation of this practice. It is understood that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Adviser in connection with its or its affiliates' services to other clients.
(c) AGGREGATED TRANSACTIONS. On occasions when the Adviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interest of a Fund as well as other clients of the Adviser, the Adviser may, to the extent permitted by applicable law and regulations, aggregate the order for securities to be sold or purchased. In such event, the Adviser will allocate securities or futures contracts so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, in the manner the Adviser reasonably considers to be equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to the Fund and to such other clients under the circumstances.
(d) AFFILIATED BROKERS. The Adviser or any of its affiliates may act as broker in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or other investments for a Fund, subject to: (a) the requirement that the Adviser seek to obtain best execution and price within the policy guidelines determined by the Board and set forth in the Fund's current registration statement; (b) the provisions of the 1940 Act; (c) the provisions of the Advisers Act; (d) the provisions of the 1934 Act; and (e) other provisions of applicable law. These brokerage services are not within the scope of the duties of the Adviser under this Agreement. Subject to the requirements of applicable law and any procedures adopted by the Board, the Adviser or its affiliates may receive brokerage commissions, fees or other remuneration from a Fund for these services in addition to the Adviser's fees for services under this Agreement.
5. CUSTODY. Nothing in this Agreement shall permit the Adviser to take or receive physical possession of cash, securities or other investments of a Fund.
6. ALLOCATION OF CHARGES AND EXPENSES. The Adviser will bear its own costs of providing services hereunder. Other than as herein specifically indicated, the Adviser shall not be responsible for a Fund's expenses, including brokerage and other expenses incurred in placing orders for the purchase and sale of securities and other investment instruments.
7. REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS.
(a) PROPERLY REGISTERED. The Adviser is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act, and will remain so registered for the duration of this Agreement. The Adviser is not prohibited by the Advisers Act or the 1940 Act from performing the services contemplated by this Agreement, and to the best knowledge of the Adviser, there is no proceeding or investigation that is reasonably likely to result in the Adviser being prohibited from performing the services contemplated by this Agreement. The Adviser agrees to promptly notify the Trust of the occurrence of any event that would disqualify the Adviser from serving as an investment adviser to an investment company. The Adviser is in compliance in all material respects with all applicable federal and state law in connection with its investment management operations.
(b) ADV DISCLOSURE. The Adviser has provided the Trust with a copy of its Form ADV Part I as most recently filed with the SEC and its current Part II and will, promptly after filing any amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC updating its Part II, furnish a copy of such amendments or updates to the Trust. 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 were made, not misleading.
(c) FUND DISCLOSURE DOCUMENTS. The Adviser has reviewed and will in the future review, the Registration Statement, and any amendments or supplements thereto, the annual or semi-annual reports to shareholders, other reports filed with the Commission and any marketing material of a Fund (collectively the "Disclosure Documents") and represents and warrants that with respect to disclosure about the Adviser, the manner in which the Adviser manages the Fund or information relating directly or indirectly to the Adviser, such Disclosure Documents contain or will contain, as of the date thereof, no untrue statement of any material fact and does not omit any statement of material fact which was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements contained therein not misleading.
(d) USE OF THE NAME "CHAMPLAIN". The Adviser has the right to use the name "Champlain" in connection with its services to the Trust and that, subject to the terms set forth in Section 8 of this Agreement, the Trust shall have the right to use the name "Champlain" in connection with the management and operation of the Funds. The Adviser is not aware of any threatened or existing actions, claims, litigation or
proceedings that would adversely affect or prejudice the rights of the Adviser or the Trust to use the name "Champlain".
(e) INSURANCE. The Adviser maintains errors and omissions insurance coverage in an appropriate amount and shall provide prior written notice to the Trust (i) of any material changes in its insurance policies or insurance coverage; or (ii) if any material claims will be made on its insurance policies. Furthermore, the Adviser shall upon reasonable request provide the Trust with any information it may reasonably require concerning the amount of or scope of such insurance.
(f) NO DETRIMENTAL AGREEMENT. The Adviser represents and warrants that it has no arrangement or understanding with any party, other than the Trust, that would influence the decision of the Adviser with respect to its selection of securities for a Fund, and that all selections shall be done in accordance with what is in the best interest of the Fund.
(g) CONFLICTS. The Adviser shall act honestly, in good faith and in the best interests of the Trust including requiring any of its personnel with knowledge of Fund activities to place the interest of the Fund first, ahead of their own interests, in all personal trading scenarios that may involve a conflict of interest with the Funds, consistent with its fiduciary duties under applicable law.
(h) REPRESENTATIONS. The representations and warranties in this
Section 7 shall be deemed to be made on the date this Agreement is executed and
at the time of delivery of the quarterly compliance report required by Section
3(a), whether or not specifically referenced in such report.
8. THE NAME "CHAMPLAIN". The Adviser grants to the Trust a license to
use the name "Champlain" (the "Name") as part of the name of any Fund. The
foregoing authorization by the Adviser to the Trust to use the Name as part of
the name of any Fund is not exclusive of the right of the Adviser itself to
use, or to authorize others to use, the Name; the Trust acknowledges and agrees
that, as between the Trust and the Adviser, the Adviser has the right to use,
or authorize others to use, the Name. The Trust shall (1) only use the Name in
a manner consistent with uses approved by the Adviser; (2) use its best efforts
to maintain the quality of the services offered using the Name; (3) adhere to
such other specific quality control standards as the Adviser may from time to
time promulgate. At the request of the Adviser, the Trust will (a) submit to
Adviser representative samples of any promotional materials using the Name; and
(b) change the name of any Fund within three months of its receipt of the
Adviser's request, or such other shorter time period as may be required under
the terms of a settlement agreement or court order, so as to eliminate all
reference to the Name and will not thereafter transact any business using the
Name in the name of any Fund; provided, however, that the Trust may continue to
use beyond such date any supplies of prospectuses, marketing materials and
similar documents that the Trust had on the date of such name change in
quantities not exceeding those historically produced and used in connection
with such Fund.
9. ADVISER'S COMPENSATION. The Funds shall pay to the Adviser, as compensation for the Adviser's services hereunder, a fee, determined as described in Schedule A that is attached hereto and made a part hereof. Such fee shall be computed daily and paid not less than monthly in arrears by the Funds.
The method for determining net assets of a Fund for purposes hereof shall be the same as the method for determining net assets for purposes of establishing the offering and redemption prices of Fund shares as described in the Fund's prospectus. In the event of termination of this Agreement, the fee provided in this Section shall be computed on the basis of the period ending on the last business day on which this Agreement is in effect subject to a pro rata adjustment based on the number of days elapsed in the current month as a percentage of the total number of days in such month.
10. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR. In the performance of its duties hereunder, the Adviser is and shall be an independent contractor and, unless otherwise expressly provided herein or otherwise authorized in writing, shall have no authority to act for or represent the Trust or any Fund in any way or otherwise be deemed to be an agent of the Trust or any Fund. If any occasion should arise in which the Adviser gives any advice to its clients concerning the shares of a Fund, the Adviser will act solely as investment counsel for such clients and not in any way on behalf of the Fund.
11. ASSIGNMENT AND AMENDMENTS. This Agreement shall automatically terminate, without the payment of any penalty, in the event of its assignment (as defined in section 2(a)(4) of the 1940 Act); provided that such termination shall not relieve the Adviser of any liability incurred hereunder.
This Agreement may not be added to or changed orally and may not be modified or rescinded except by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in accordance with the 1940 Act, when applicable.
12. DURATION AND TERMINATION.
This Agreement shall become effective as of the date executed and shall remain in full force and effect continually thereafter, subject to renewal as provided in Section 12(c) and unless terminated automatically as set forth in Section 11 hereof or until terminated as follows:
(a) The Trust may cause this Agreement to terminate either (i) by vote of its Board or (ii) with respect to any Fund, upon the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund; or
(b) The Adviser may at any time terminate this Agreement by not more than sixty (60) days' nor less than thirty (30) days' written notice delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to the Trust; or
(c) This Agreement shall automatically terminate two years from the date of its execution unless its renewal is specifically approved at least annually thereafter by (i) a majority
vote of the Trustees, including a majority vote of such Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust or the Adviser, at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval; or (ii) the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of each Fund; provided, however, that if the continuance of this Agreement is submitted to the shareholders of the Funds for their approval and such shareholders fail to approve such continuance of this Agreement as provided herein, the Adviser may continue to serve hereunder as to the Funds in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder; and
(d) Termination of this Agreement pursuant to this Section shall be without payment of any penalty.
In the event of termination of this Agreement for any reason, the Adviser shall, immediately upon notice of termination or on such later date as may be specified in such notice, cease all activity on behalf of the Fund and with respect to any of its assets, except as otherwise required by any fiduciary duties of the Adviser under applicable law. In addition, the Adviser shall deliver the Fund Books and Records to the Trust by such means and in accordance with such schedule as the Trust shall direct and shall otherwise cooperate, as reasonably directed by the Trust, in the transition of portfolio asset management to any successor of the Adviser.
13. CERTAIN DEFINITIONS. For the purposes of this Agreement:
(a) "Affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund" shall have the meaning as set forth in the 1940 Act, subject, however, to such exemptions as may be granted by the Commission under the 1940 Act or any interpretations of the Commission staff.
(b) "Interested persons" and "Assignment" shall have their respective meanings as set forth in the 1940 Act, subject, however, to such exemptions as may be granted by the Commission under the 1940 Act or any interpretations of the Commission staff.
14. LIABILITY OF THE ADVISER. The Adviser shall indemnify and hold
harmless the Trust and all affiliated persons thereof (within the meaning of
Section 2(a)(3) of the 1940 Act) and all controlling persons (as described in
Section 15 of the 1933 Act) (collectively, the "Adviser Indemnitees") against
any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including
reasonable legal and other expenses) by reason of or arising out of: (a) the
Adviser being in material violation of any applicable federal or state law,
rule or regulation or any investment policy or restriction set forth in the
Funds' Registration Statement or any written guidelines or instruction provided
in writing by the Board, (b) a Fund's failure to satisfy the diversification or
source of income requirements of Subchapter M of the Code, or (c) the Adviser's
misfeasance or negligence generally in the performance of its duties hereunder
or its negligent disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
15. ENFORCEABILITY. Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms or
provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction.
16. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. The parties to this Agreement acknowledge and agree that all litigation arising hereunder, whether direct or indirect, and of any and every nature whatsoever shall be satisfied solely out of the assets of the affected Fund and that no Trustee, officer or holder of shares of beneficial interest of the Fund shall be personally liable for any of the foregoing liabilities. The Trust's Certificate of Trust, as amended from time to time, is on file in the Office of the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Such Certificate of Trust and the Trust's Agreement and Declaration of Trust describe in detail the respective responsibilities and limitations on liability of the Trustees, officers, and holders of shares of beneficial interest.
17. CHANGE IN THE ADVISER'S OWNERSHIP. The Adviser agrees that it shall notify the Trust of any anticipated or otherwise reasonably foreseeable change in the ownership of the Adviser within a reasonable time prior to such change being effected.
18. JURISDICTION. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the substantive laws of Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Adviser consents to the jurisdiction of courts, both state or federal, in Massachusetts, with respect to any dispute under this Agreement.
19. PARAGRAPH HEADINGS. The headings of paragraphs contained in this Agreement are provided for convenience only, form no part of this Agreement and shall not affect its construction.
20. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be signed on their behalf by their duly authorized officers as of the date first above written.
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND, on behalf
of each Fund listed on Schedule A
By: /s/ Joseph M. Gallo ------------------------------------------ Name: Joseph M. Gallo Title: Vice President and Secretary |
CHAMPLAIN INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LLC
By: /s/ Judith O'Connell ------------------------------------------ Name: Judith W. O'Connell Title: Managing Partner |
SCHEDULE A
TO THE
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
DATED OCTOBER 24, 2008 BETWEEN
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
AND
CHAMPLAIN INVESTMENT PARTNERS, LLC
The Trust will pay to the Adviser as compensation for the Adviser's services rendered, a fee, computed daily at an annual rate based on the average daily net assets of the respective Fund in accordance the following fee schedule:
Fund Rate ---- ---- Champlain Small Company Fund ...............................0.90% Champlain Mid Cap Fund .....................................0.80% |
SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") made as of this 16th day of June, 2010 by and between FROST INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC a Delaware limited liability company with its principal place of business at 100 West Houston Street, 15th Floor, San Antonio, Texas 78205 (the "Adviser"), and ARTIO GLOBAL MANAGEMENT LLC a Delaware limited liability company with its principal place of business at 330 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10017 (the "Sub-Adviser").
W I T N E S S E T H
WHEREAS, pursuant to authority granted to the Adviser by the Board of Trustees (the "Board") of THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II (the "Trust") on behalf of the series set forth on Schedule A to this Agreement (the "Fund") and pursuant to the provisions of the Investment Advisory Agreement dated as of May 5, 2008 between the Adviser and the Fund (the "Management Agreement"), the Adviser has selected the Sub-Adviser to act as sub-investment adviser of the Fund and to provide certain related services, as more fully set forth below, and to perform such services under the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and benefits set forth herein, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser do hereby agree as follows:
1. THE SUB-ADVISER'S SERVICES.
(a) DISCRETIONARY INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES. The Sub-Adviser shall act as sub-investment adviser with respect to the Fund. In such capacity, the Sub-Adviser shall, subject to the supervision of the Adviser and the Board, regularly provide the Fund with investment research, advice and supervision and shall furnish continuously an investment program for such Fund assets as may be allocated by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser, consistent with the investment objectives and policies of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser shall determine, from time to time, what investments shall be purchased for the Fund and what such securities shall be held or sold by the Fund, subject always to the provisions of the Trust's Agreement and Declaration of Trust, By-Laws and its registration statement on Form N-1A (the "Registration Statement") under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), and under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), covering Fund shares, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"), and to the investment objectives, policies and restrictions of the Fund, as each of the same shall be from time to time in effect. To carry out such obligations, the Sub-Adviser shall exercise full discretion and act for the Fund in the same manner and with the same force and effect as the Fund itself might or could do with respect to purchases, sales or other transactions. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Sub-Adviser shall, upon written instructions from the Adviser, effect such portfolio transactions for the Fund as the Adviser may from time to time direct; provided however, that the Sub-Adviser shall not be responsible for any such portfolio transactions effected upon written instructions from the Adviser. No reference in this Agreement to the Sub-Adviser having full discretionary authority over the Fund's investments shall in any way limit the right of the Adviser, in its sole discretion, to establish or revise policies in connection with the management of the Fund's assets or to otherwise exercise its right to control the overall management of the Fund's assets.
(b) COMPLIANCE. The Sub-Adviser agrees to comply with the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act"), the 1933 Act,
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act"), the Commodity Exchange Act and the respective rules and regulations thereunder, as applicable, as well as with all other applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations and case law that relate to the services and relationships described hereunder and to the conduct of its business as a registered investment adviser. The Sub-Adviser also agrees to comply with the objectives, policies and restrictions set forth in the Registration Statement, as amended or supplemented, of the Fund, and with any policies, guidelines, instructions and procedures approved by the Board or the Adviser and provided to the Sub-Adviser. In selecting the Fund's portfolio securities and performing the Sub-Adviser's obligations hereunder, the Sub-Adviser shall cause the Fund to comply with the diversification and source of income requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), for qualification as a regulated investment company. The Sub-Adviser shall maintain compliance procedures that it reasonably believes are adequate to ensure the compliance with the foregoing. No supervisory activity undertaken by the Adviser shall limit the Sub-Adviser's full responsibility for any of the foregoing.
(c) PROXY VOTING. Pursuant to Board authority, the Adviser has the authority to determine how proxies with respect to securities that are held by the Fund shall be voted, and the Adviser has determined to delegate the authority and responsibility to vote proxies for the Fund's securities to the Sub-Adviser. So long as proxy voting authority for the Fund has been delegated to the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Adviser shall provide such assistance to the Adviser with respect to the voting of proxies for the Fund as the Adviser may from time to time reasonably request, and the Sub-Adviser shall promptly forward to the Adviser any information or documents necessary for the Adviser to exercise its proxy voting responsibilities. The Sub-Adviser shall not vote proxies with respect to the securities held by the Fund unless and until the Board or the Adviser delegates such authority and responsibility to the Sub-Adviser or otherwise instructs the Sub-Adviser to do so in writing, whereupon the Sub-Adviser shall carry out such responsibility in accordance with any instructions that the Board or the Adviser shall provide from time to time and shall provide such reports and keep such records relating to proxy voting as the Board may reasonably request or as may be necessary for the Fund to comply with the 1940 Act and other applicable law. Any such delegation of proxy voting responsibility to the Sub-Adviser may be revoked or modified by the Board or the Adviser at any time.
(d) RECORDKEEPING. The Sub-Adviser shall not be responsible for the provision of administrative, bookkeeping or accounting services to the Fund, except as otherwise provided herein or as may be necessary for the Sub-Adviser to supply to the Adviser, the Fund or its Board the information required to be supplied under this Agreement.
The Sub-Adviser shall maintain separate books and detailed records of all matters pertaining to the Fund's assets advised by the Sub-Adviser required by Rule 31a-1 under the 1940 Act (other than those records being maintained by the Adviser, custodian or transfer agent appointed by the Fund) relating to its responsibilities provided hereunder with respect to the Fund, and shall preserve such records for the periods and in a manner prescribed therefore by Rule 31a-2 under the 1940 Act (the "Fund Books and Records"). The Fund Books and Records shall be available to the Adviser and the Board at any time upon request shall be delivered to the Fund upon the termination of this Agreement and shall be available for telecopying without delay during any day the Fund is open for business.
(e) HOLDINGS INFORMATION AND PRICING. The Sub-Adviser shall provide regular reports regarding the Fund's holdings, and shall, on its own initiative, furnish the Fund and the Adviser from time to time with whatever information the Sub-Adviser believes is appropriate for this
purpose. The Sub-Adviser agrees to immediately notify the Adviser if the Sub-Adviser reasonably believes that the value of any security held by a Fund may not reflect fair value. The Sub-Adviser agrees to provide any pricing information of which the Sub-Adviser is aware to the Adviser and/or any Fund pricing agent to assist in the determination of the fair value of any Fund holdings for which market quotations are not readily available or as otherwise required in accordance with the 1940 Act or the Fund valuation procedures for the purpose of calculating the Fund's net asset value in accordance with procedures and methods established by the Board.
(f) COOPERATION WITH AGENTS OF THE ADVISER AND THE FUND. The Sub-Adviser agrees to cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser, the Fund and the Fund's custodian and foreign sub-custodians, the Fund's pricing agents and all other agents and representatives of the Fund and the Adviser, such information with respect to the Fund as such entities may reasonably request from time to time in the performance of their obligations, provide prompt responses to reasonable requests made by such persons and establish appropriate interfaces with each so as to promote the efficient exchange of information and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
(g) CONSULTATION WITH OTHER SUB-ADVISERS. In performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser shall not consult with any other sub-adviser to the Fund or a sub-adviser to a portfolio that is under common control with the Fund concerning transactions for the Fund, except as permitted by the policies and procedures of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser shall not provide investment advice to any assets of the Fund other than the assets managed by the Sub-Adviser.
2. CODE OF ETHICS. The Sub-Adviser has adopted a written code of ethics that it reasonably believes complies with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act, which it will provide to the Adviser and the Fund. The Sub-Adviser shall ensure that its Access Persons (as defined in the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics) comply in all material respects with the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics, as in effect from time to time. Upon request, the Sub-Adviser shall provide the Fund with (i) a copy of the Sub-Adviser's current Code of Ethics, as in effect from time to time, and (ii) a certification that it has adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent Access Persons from engaging in any conduct prohibited by the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics. Annually, the Sub-Adviser shall furnish a written report, which complies with the requirements of Rule 17j-1, concerning the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics to the Fund and the Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall respond to requests for information from the Adviser as to violations of the Code by Access Persons and the sanctions imposed by the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall immediately notify the Adviser of any material violation of the Code, whether or not such violation relates to a security held by any Fund.
3. INFORMATION AND REPORTING. The Sub-Adviser shall provide the Fund, the Adviser, and their respective officers with such periodic reports concerning the obligations the Sub-Adviser has assumed under this Agreement as the Fund and the Adviser may from time to time reasonably request.
(a) NOTIFICATION OF BREACH / COMPLIANCE REPORTS. The Sub-Adviser shall notify the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer and Adviser immediately upon detection of (i) any material failure to manage any Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and policies or any applicable law; or (ii) any material breach of any of the Fund's or the Adviser's policies, guidelines or procedures. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall provide a quarterly report regarding the Fund's compliance with its investment objectives and policies and applicable law, including, but not limited to the 1940 Act and Subchapter M of the Code, and the Fund's and the Adviser's policies, guidelines or procedures as applicable to the Sub-Adviser's obligations under this
Agreement. The Sub-Adviser acknowledges and agrees that the Adviser may, in its discretion, provide such quarterly compliance certifications to the Board. The Sub-Adviser agrees to correct any such failure promptly and to take any action that the Board and/or the Adviser may reasonably request in connection with any such breach. The Sub-Adviser shall also provide the officers of the Trust with supporting certifications in connection with such certifications of Fund financial statements and disclosure controls pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The Sub-Adviser will promptly notify the Trust in the event (i) the Sub-Adviser is served or otherwise receives notice of any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, at law or in equity, before or by any court, public board, or body, involving the affairs of the Trust (excluding class action suits in which a Fund is a member of the plaintiff class by reason of the Fund's ownership of shares in the defendant) or the compliance by the Sub-Adviser with the federal or state securities laws or (ii) the controlling stockholder of the Sub-Adviser changes or an actual change in control resulting in an "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act) has occurred or is otherwise proposed to occur.
(b) INSPECTION. Upon reasonable request, the Sub-Adviser agrees to make its records and premises (including the availability of the Sub-Adviser's employees for interviews) to the extent that they relate to the conduct of services provided to the Fund or the Sub-Adviser's conduct of its business as an investment adviser reasonably available for compliance audits by the Adviser or a Fund's employees, accountants or counsel; in this regard, the Fund and the Adviser acknowledge that the Sub-Adviser shall have no obligations to make available proprietary information unrelated to the services provided to the Fund or any information related to other clients of the Sub-Adviser, except to the extent necessary for the Adviser to confirm the absence of any conflict of interest and compliance with any laws, rules or regulations in the management of the Fund.
(c) BOARD AND FILINGS INFORMATION. The Sub-Adviser will also provide the Adviser with any information reasonably requested regarding its management of the Fundrequired for any meeting of the Board, or for any shareholder report, amended registration statement, proxy statement, or prospectus supplement to be filed by the Fund with the Commission. The Sub-Adviser will make its officers and employees available to meet with the Board from time to time on due notice to review its investment management services to the Fund in light of current and prospective economic and market conditions and shall furnish to the Board such information as may reasonably be necessary in order for the Board to evaluate this Agreement or any proposed amendments thereto.
(d) TRANSACTION INFORMATION. The Sub-Adviser shall furnish to the Adviser such information concerning portfolio transactions as may be necessary to enable the Adviser to perform such compliance testing on the Fund and the Sub-Adviser's services as the Adviser may, in its sole discretion, determine to be appropriate. The provision of such information by the Sub-Adviser in no way relieves the Sub-Adviser of its own responsibilities under this Agreement.
4. BROKERAGE.
(a) PRINCIPAL TRANSACTIONS. In connection with purchases or sales of securities for the account of a Fund, neither the Sub-Adviser nor any of its directors, officers or employees will act as a principal or agent or receive any commission except as permitted by the 1940 Act.
(b) PLACEMENT OF ORDERS. The Sub-Adviser shall arrange for the placing of all orders for the purchase and sale of securities for a Fund's account with brokers or dealers selected by the
Sub-Adviser. In the selection of such brokers or dealers and the placing of such orders, the Sub-Adviser is directed at all times to seek for a Fund the most favorable execution and net price available under the circumstances. It is also understood that it is desirable for the Fund that the Sub-Adviser have access to brokerage and research services provided by brokers who may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to the Fund than may result when allocating brokerage to other brokers, consistent with section 28(e) of the 1934 Act and any Commission staff interpretations thereof. Therefore, the Sub-Adviser is authorized to place orders for the purchase and sale of securities for the Fund with such brokers, subject to review by the Adviser and the Board from time to time with respect to the extent and continuation of this practice. It is understood that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-Adviser in connection with its or its affiliates' services to other clients.
(c) AGGREGATED TRANSACTIONS. On occasions when the Sub-Adviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interest of a Fund as well as other clients of the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Adviser may, to the extent permitted by applicable law and regulations, aggregate the order for securities to be sold or purchased. In such event, the Sub-Adviser will allocate securities or futures contracts so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, in the manner the Sub-Adviser reasonably considers to be equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to a Fund and to such other clients under the circumstances.
(d) AFFILIATED BROKERS. The Sub-Adviser or any of its affiliates may act as broker in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or other investments for a Fund, subject to: (a) the requirement that the Sub-Adviser seek to obtain best execution and price within the policy guidelines determined by the Board and set forth in a Fund's current prospectus and SAI; (b) the provisions of the 1940 Act; (c) the provisions of the 1934 Act; and (d) other provisions of applicable law. These brokerage services are not within the scope of the duties of the Sub-Adviser under this Agreement. Subject to the requirements of applicable law and any procedures adopted by the Board, the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates may receive brokerage commissions, fees or other remuneration from a Fund for these services in addition to the Sub-Adviser's fees for services under this Agreement.
5. CUSTODY. Nothing in this Agreement shall permit the Sub-Adviser to take or receive physical possession of cash, securities or other investments of a Fund.
6. ALLOCATION OF CHARGES AND EXPENSES. The Sub-Adviser will bear its own costs of providing services hereunder. Other than as herein specifically indicated, the Sub-Adviser shall not be responsible for a Fund's or the Adviser's expenses, including brokerage and other expenses incurred in placing orders for the purchase and sale of securities and other investment instruments.
7. REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS.
(a) PROPERLY REGISTERED. The Sub-Adviser is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act, and will remain so registered for the duration of this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser is not prohibited by the Advisers Act or the 1940 Act from performing the services contemplated by this Agreement, and to the best knowledge of the Sub-Adviser, there is no proceeding or investigation that is reasonably likely to result in the Sub-Adviser being prohibited from performing the services contemplated by this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser agrees to promptly notify the Trust of the occurrence of any event that would disqualify the Sub-Adviser from serving as an investment adviser to an investment company. The Sub-Adviser is in
compliance in all material respects with all applicable federal and state law in connection with its investment management operations.
(b) ADV DISCLOSURE. The Sub-Adviser has provided the Trust with a copy of Part I of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the Commission and its Part II as most recently updated and will, promptly after filing any amendment to its Form ADV with the Commission or updating its Part II, furnish a copy of such amendments or updates to the Trust. 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 were made, not misleading.
(c) FUND DISCLOSURE DOCUMENTS. The Sub-Adviser has reviewed and will in the future review, the Registration Statement, and any amendments or supplements thereto, the annual or semi-annual reports to shareholders, other reports filed with the Commission and any marketing material of a Fund (collectively the "Disclosure Documents") and represents and warrants that with respect to disclosure about the Sub-Adviser, the manner in which the Sub-Adviser manages the Fund or information relating directly or indirectly to the Sub-Adviser, such Disclosure Documents contain or will contain, as of the date thereof, no untrue statement of any material fact and does not omit any statement of material fact which was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements contained therein not misleading.
(d) USE OF THE NAME "FROST". The Sub-Adviser has the right to use the name "Frost" in connection with its services to the Trust and that, subject to the terms set forth in Section 8 of this Agreement, the Trust shall have the right to use the name "Frost " in connection with the management and operation of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser is not aware of any threatened or existing actions, claims, litigation or proceedings that would adversely affect or prejudice the rights of the Sub-Adviser or the Trust to use the name "Frost."
(e) Insurance. The Sub-Adviser maintains errors and omissions insurance coverage in an appropriate amount and shall provide prior written notice to the Trust (i) of any material changes in its insurance policies or insurance coverage; or (ii) if any material claims will be made on its insurance policies. Furthermore, the Sub-Adviser shall, upon reasonable request, provide the Trust with any information it may reasonably require concerning the amount of or scope of such insurance.
(f) NO DETRIMENTAL AGREEMENT. The Sub-Adviser represents and warrants that it has no arrangement or understanding with any party, other than the Trust, that would influence the decision of the Sub-Adviser with respect to its selection of securities for a Fund, and that all selections shall be done in accordance with what is in the best interest of the Fund.
(g) CONFLICTS. The Sub-Adviser shall act honestly, in good faith and in the best interests of the Trust including requiring any of its personnel with knowledge of Fund activities to place the interest of the Fund first, ahead of their own interests, in all personal trading scenarios that may involve a conflict of interest with the Fund, consistent with its fiduciary duties under applicable law.
(h) REPRESENTATIONS. The representations and warranties in this
Section 7 shall be deemed to be made on the date this Agreement is executed and
at the time of delivery of the quarterly compliance report required by Section
3(a), whether or not specifically referenced in such report.
8. THE NAME "FROST". The Adviser has granted to the Trust a license to use the name "Frost" as part of the name of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser and the Fund shall be obligated to use the name "Frost" in the name of the Fund during the period in which this Agreement remains in effect or the Sub-Adviser otherwise acts as sub-investment adviser for the Fund, except as agreed to by the Adviser. The foregoing authorization by the Adviser to the Trust to use said name as part of the name of the Fund is not exclusive of the right of the Adviser itself to use, or to authorize others to use, the same; the Sub-Adviser acknowledges and agrees that as between the Sub-Adviser and the Adviser, the Adviser has the exclusive right so to use, or authorize others to use, said name and the Sub-Adviser agrees to take such action as may reasonably be requested by the Adviser to give full effect to the provisions of this section. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Sub-Adviser agrees that, upon any termination of this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser will not thereafter transact any business using the name "Frost."
9. SUB-ADVISER'S COMPENSATION. The Adviser shall pay to the Sub-Adviser, as compensation for the Sub-Adviser's services hereunder, a fee, determined as described in Schedule A that is attached hereto and made a part hereof. Such fee shall be computed daily and paid monthly in arrears by the Adviser. The Fund shall have no responsibility for any fee payable to the Sub-Adviser.
The Sub-Adviser will be compensated based on the portion of Fund assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser. In the event of termination of this Agreement, the fee provided in this Section shall be computed on the basis of the period ending on the last business day on which this Agreement is in effect subject to a pro rata adjustment based on the number of days elapsed in the current month as a percentage of the total number of days in such month.
10. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR. In the performance of its duties hereunder, the Sub-Adviser is and shall be an independent contractor and, unless otherwise expressly provided herein or otherwise authorized in writing, shall have no authority to act for or represent the Fund or the Adviser in any way or otherwise be deemed to be an agent of the Fund or the Adviser. If any occasion should arise in which the Sub-Adviser gives any advice to its clients concerning the shares of a Fund, the Sub-Adviser will act solely as investment counsel for such clients and not in any way on behalf of the Fund.
11. ASSIGNMENT AND AMENDMENTS. This Agreement shall automatically terminate, without the payment of any penalty, (i) in the event of its assignment (as defined in section 2(a)(4) of the 1940 Act) or (ii) in the event of the termination of the Management Agreement; provided that such termination shall not relieve the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser of any liability incurred hereunder.
This Agreement may not be added to or changed orally and may not be modified or rescinded except by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in accordance with the 1940 Act, when applicable.
12. DURATION AND TERMINATION.
This Agreement shall become effective as of the date executed and shall remain in full force and effect continually thereafter, subject to renewal as provided in Section 12(c) and unless terminated automatically as set forth in Section 11 hereof or until terminated as follows:
(a) The Adviser may at any time terminate this Agreement by not more than sixty (60) days' nor less than thirty (30) days' written notice delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to the Sub-Adviser. In addition, the Fund may cause this Agreement to terminate either (i) by vote of its Board or (ii) upon the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund; or
(b) The Sub-Adviser may at any time terminate this Agreement by not more than sixty (60) days' nor less than thirty (30) days' written notice delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to the Adviser; or
(c) This Agreement shall automatically terminate two years from the date of its execution unless its renewal is specifically approved at least annually thereafter by (i) a majority vote of the Trustees, including a majority vote of such Trustees who are not interested persons of the Fund, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser, at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval; or (ii) the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund; provided, however, that if the continuance of this Agreement is submitted to the shareholders of the Fund for their approval and such shareholders fail to approve such continuance of this Agreement as provided herein, the Sub-Adviser may continue to serve hereunder as to the Fund in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder; and
(d) Termination of this Agreement pursuant to this Section shall be without payment of any penalty.
In the event of termination of this Agreement for any reason, the Sub-Adviser shall, immediately upon notice of termination or on such later date as may be specified in such notice, cease all activity on behalf of the Fund and with respect to any Fund assets, except as expressly directed by the Adviser or as otherwise required by any fiduciary duties of the Sub-Adviser under applicable law. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall deliver the Fund's Books and Records to the Adviser by such means and in accordance with such schedule as the Adviser shall direct and shall otherwise cooperate, as reasonably directed by the Adviser, in the transition of portfolio asset management to any successor of the Sub-Adviser, including the Adviser.
13. CERTAIN DEFINITIONS. FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS AGREEMENT:
(a) "Affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund" shall have the meaning as set forth in the 1940 Act, subject, however, to such exemptions as may be granted by the Commission under the 1940 Act or any interpretations of the Commission staff.
(b) "Interested persons" and "Assignment" shall have their respective meanings as set forth in the 1940 Act, subject, however, to such exemptions as may be granted by the Commission under the 1940 Act or any interpretations of the Commission staff.
14. LIABILITY OF THE SUB-ADVISER. The Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Trust and all affiliated persons thereof (within the meaning of Section 2(a)(3) of the 1940 Act) and all their respective controlling persons (as described in Section 15 of the 1933 Act) (collectively, the "Sub-Adviser Indemnitees") against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses) by reason of or arising out of: (a) the Sub-Adviser being in material violation of any applicable federal or state law, rule or regulation or any investment policy or restriction set forth in the Fund's Registration Statement or any written guidelines or instruction provided in writing by the Board, (b) a Fund's failure to satisfy the diversification or source of income requirements of Subchapter M of the Code generally in the performance of its duties or obligations as specifically stated in this Agreement, or (c) the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence generally in the performance of its duties hereunder or its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement; provided that such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable legal and other expenses) are not the result of any act of or breach of duty by the Fund, the Trust, and/or the Adviser.
15. ENFORCEABILITY. Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction be ineffective to the extent of such invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms or provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction.
16. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. The parties to this Agreement acknowledge and agree that all litigation arising hereunder, whether direct or indirect, and of any and every nature whatsoever shall be satisfied solely out of the assets of the affected Fund and that no Trustee, officer or holder of shares of beneficial interest of the Fund shall be personally liable for any of the foregoing liabilities. The Trust's Certificate of Trust, as amended from time to time, is on file in the Office of the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Such Certificate of Trust and the Trust's Agreement and Declaration of Trust describe in detail the respective responsibilities and limitations on liability of the Trustees, officers, and holders of shares of beneficial interest.
17. CHANGE IN THE ADVISER'S OWNERSHIP. The Sub-Adviser agrees that it shall notify the Trust of any anticipated or otherwise reasonably foreseeable change in the ownership of the Sub-Adviser within a reasonable time prior to such change being effected.
18. JURISDICTION. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the substantive laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Sub-Adviser consents to the jurisdiction of courts, both state or federal, in Massachusetts, with respect to any dispute under this Agreement.
19. PARAGRAPH HEADINGS. The headings of paragraphs contained in this Agreement are provided for convenience only, form no part of this Agreement and shall not affect its construction.
20. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be signed on their behalf by their duly authorized officers as of the date first above written.
FROST INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
By: /s/ illegible signature ---------------------------- Name: [ ] Title:[ ] |
ARTIO GLOBAL MANAGEMENT LLC
By: /s/ illegible signature ---------------------------- Name: [ ] Title:[ ] |
SCHEDULE A
TO THE
SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
DATED JUNE 16, 2010 BETWEEN
FROST INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
AND
ARTIO GLOBAL MANAGEMENT LLC
The Adviser will pay to the Sub-Adviser as compensation for the Sub-Adviser's services rendered, a fee, computed daily at an annual rate based on the average daily net assets of the respective Fund as may be allocated by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser from time to time under the following fee schedule:
Fund Rate --------------------------- ------ Frost Small Cap Equity Fund 0.70% |
SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT (the "Agreement") made as of this 16th day of June, 2010 by and between FROST INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC a Delaware limited liability company with its principal place of business at 100 West Houston Street, 15th Floor, San Antonio, Texas 78205 (the "Adviser"), and CAMBIAR INVESTORS, LLC a Delaware limited liability company with its principal place of business at 2401 East Second Avenue, Suite 500, Denver, Colorado 80206 (the "Sub-Adviser").
W I T N E S S E T H
WHEREAS, pursuant to authority granted to the Adviser by the Board of Trustees (the "Board") of THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II (the "Trust") on behalf of the series set forth on Schedule A to this Agreement (the "Fund") and pursuant to the provisions of the Investment Advisory Agreement dated as of May 5, 2008 between the Adviser and the Fund (the "Management Agreement"), the Adviser has selected the Sub-Adviser to act as sub-investment adviser of the Fund and to provide certain related services, as more fully set forth below, and to perform such services under the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and benefits set forth herein, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser do hereby agree as follows:
1. THE SUB-ADVISER'S SERVICES.
(a) DISCRETIONARY INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES. The Sub-Adviser shall act as sub-investment adviser with respect to the Fund. In such capacity, the Sub-Adviser shall, subject to the supervision of the Adviser and the Board, regularly provide the Fund with investment research, advice and supervision and shall furnish continuously an investment program for such Fund assets as may be allocated by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser, consistent with the investment objectives and policies of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser shall determine, from time to time, what investments shall be purchased for the Fund and what such securities shall be held or sold by the Fund, subject always to the provisions of the Trust's Agreement and Declaration of Trust, By-Laws and its registration statement on Form N-1A (the "Registration Statement") under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), and under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), covering Fund shares, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"), and to the investment objectives, policies and restrictions of the Fund, as each of the same shall be from time to time in effect. To carry out such obligations, the Sub-Adviser shall exercise full discretion and act for the Fund in the same manner and with the same force and effect as the Fund itself might or could do with respect to purchases, sales or other transactions. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Sub-Adviser shall, upon written instructions from the Adviser, effect such portfolio transactions for the Fund as the Adviser may from time to time direct; provided however, that the Sub-Adviser shall not be responsible for any such portfolio transactions effected upon written instructions from the Adviser. No reference in this Agreement to the Sub-Adviser having full discretionary authority over the Fund's investments shall in any way limit the right of the Adviser, in its sole discretion, to establish or revise policies in connection with the management of the Fund's assets or to otherwise exercise its right to control the overall management of the Fund's assets.
(b) COMPLIANCE. The Sub-Adviser agrees to comply with the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act"), the 1933 Act,
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act"), the Commodity Exchange Act and the respective rules and regulations thereunder, as applicable, as well as with all other applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations and case law that relate to the services and relationships described hereunder and to the conduct of its business as a registered investment adviser. The Sub-Adviser also agrees to comply with the objectives, policies and restrictions set forth in the Registration Statement, as amended or supplemented, of the Fund, and with any policies, guidelines, instructions and procedures approved by the Board or the Adviser and provided to the Sub-Adviser. In selecting the Fund's portfolio securities and performing the Sub-Adviser's obligations hereunder, the Sub-Adviser shall cause the Fund to comply with the diversification and source of income requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), for qualification as a regulated investment company. The Sub-Adviser shall maintain compliance procedures that it reasonably believes are adequate to ensure the compliance with the foregoing. No supervisory activity undertaken by the Adviser shall limit the Sub-Adviser's full responsibility for any of the foregoing.
(c) PROXY VOTING. Pursuant to Board authority, the Adviser has the authority to determine how proxies with respect to securities that are held by the Fund shall be voted, and the Adviser has determined to delegate the authority and responsibility to vote proxies for the Fund's securities to the Sub-Adviser. So long as proxy voting authority for the Fund has been delegated to the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Adviser shall provide such assistance to the Adviser with respect to the voting of proxies for the Fund as the Adviser may from time to time reasonably request, and the Sub-Adviser shall promptly forward to the Adviser any information or documents necessary for the Adviser to exercise its proxy voting responsibilities. The Sub-Adviser shall not vote proxies with respect to the securities held by the Fund unless and until the Board or the Adviser delegates such authority and responsibility to the Sub-Adviser or otherwise instructs the Sub-Adviser to do so in writing, whereupon the Sub-Adviser shall carry out such responsibility in accordance with any instructions that the Board or the Adviser shall provide from time to time and shall provide such reports and keep such records relating to proxy voting as the Board may reasonably request or as may be necessary for the Fund to comply with the 1940 Act and other applicable law. Any such delegation of proxy voting responsibility to the Sub-Adviser may be revoked or modified by the Board or the Adviser at any time.
(d) RECORDKEEPING. The Sub-Adviser shall not be responsible for the provision of administrative, bookkeeping or accounting services to the Fund, except as otherwise provided herein or as may be necessary for the Sub-Adviser to supply to the Adviser, the Fund or its Board the information required to be supplied under this Agreement.
The Sub-Adviser shall maintain separate books and detailed records of all matters pertaining to the Fund's assets advised by the Sub-Adviser required by Rule 31a-1 under the 1940 Act (other than those records being maintained by the Adviser, custodian or transfer agent appointed by the Fund) relating to its responsibilities provided hereunder with respect to the Fund, and shall preserve such records for the periods and in a manner prescribed therefore by Rule 31a-2 under the 1940 Act (the "Fund Books and Records"). The Fund Books and Records shall be available to the Adviser and the Board at any time upon request shall be delivered to the Fund upon the termination of this Agreement and shall be available for telecopying without delay during any day the Fund is open for business.
(e) HOLDINGS INFORMATION AND PRICING. The Sub-Adviser shall provide regular reports regarding the Fund's holdings, and shall, on its own initiative, furnish the Fund and the Adviser from time to time with whatever information the Sub-Adviser believes is appropriate for this
purpose. The Sub-Adviser agrees to immediately notify the Adviser if the Sub-Adviser reasonably believes that the value of any security held by a Fund may not reflect fair value. The Sub-Adviser agrees to provide any pricing information of which the Sub-Adviser is aware to the Adviser and/or any Fund pricing agent to assist in the determination of the fair value of any Fund holdings for which market quotations are not readily available or as otherwise required in accordance with the 1940 Act or the Fund valuation procedures for the purpose of calculating the Fund's net asset value in accordance with procedures and methods established by the Board.
(f) COOPERATION WITH AGENTS OF THE ADVISER AND THE FUND. The Sub-Adviser agrees to cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser, the Fund and the Fund's custodian and foreign sub-custodians, the Fund's pricing agents and all other agents and representatives of the Fund and the Adviser, such information with respect to the Fund as such entities may reasonably request from time to time in the performance of their obligations, provide prompt responses to reasonable requests made by such persons and establish appropriate interfaces with each so as to promote the efficient exchange of information and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
(g) CONSULTATION WITH OTHER SUB-ADVISERS. In performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser shall not consult with any other sub-adviser to the Fund or a sub-adviser to a portfolio that is under common control with the Fund concerning transactions for the Fund, except as permitted by the policies and procedures of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser shall not provide investment advice to any assets of the Fund other than the assets managed by the Sub-Adviser.
2. CODE OF ETHICS. The Sub-Adviser has adopted a written code of ethics that it reasonably believes complies with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act, which it will provide to the Adviser and the Fund. The Sub-Adviser shall ensure that its Access Persons (as defined in the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics) comply in all material respects with the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics, as in effect from time to time. Upon request, the Sub-Adviser shall provide the Fund with (i) a copy of the Sub-Adviser's current Code of Ethics, as in effect from time to time, and (ii) a certification that it has adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent Access Persons from engaging in any conduct prohibited by the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics. Annually, the Sub-Adviser shall furnish a written report, which complies with the requirements of Rule 17j-1, concerning the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics to the Fund and the Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall respond to requests for information from the Adviser as to violations of the Code by Access Persons and the sanctions imposed by the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall immediately notify the Adviser of any material violation of the Code, whether or not such violation relates to a security held by any Fund.
3. INFORMATION AND REPORTING. The Sub-Adviser shall provide the Fund, the Adviser, and their respective officers with such periodic reports concerning the obligations the Sub-Adviser has assumed under this Agreement as the Fund and the Adviser may from time to time reasonably request.
(a) NOTIFICATION OF BREACH / COMPLIANCE REPORTS. The Sub-Adviser shall notify the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer and Adviser immediately upon detection of (i) any material failure to manage any Fund in accordance with its investment objectives and policies or any applicable law; or (ii) any material breach of any of the Fund's or the Adviser's policies, guidelines or procedures. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall provide a quarterly report regarding the Fund's compliance with its investment objectives and policies and applicable law, including, but not limited to the 1940 Act and Subchapter M of the Code, and the Fund's and the Adviser's policies, guidelines or procedures as applicable to the Sub-Adviser's obligations under this
Agreement. The Sub-Adviser acknowledges and agrees that the Adviser may, in its discretion, provide such quarterly compliance certifications to the Board. The Sub-Adviser agrees to correct any such failure promptly and to take any action that the Board and/or the Adviser may reasonably request in connection with any such breach. The Sub-Adviser shall also provide the officers of the Trust with supporting certifications in connection with such certifications of Fund financial statements and disclosure controls pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The Sub-Adviser will promptly notify the Trust in the event (i) the Sub-Adviser is served or otherwise receives notice of any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, at law or in equity, before or by any court, public board, or body, involving the affairs of the Trust (excluding class action suits in which a Fund is a member of the plaintiff class by reason of the Fund's ownership of shares in the defendant) or the compliance by the Sub-Adviser with the federal or state securities laws or (ii) the controlling stockholder of the Sub-Adviser changes or an actual change in control resulting in an "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act) has occurred or is otherwise proposed to occur.
(b) INSPECTION. Upon reasonable request, the Sub-Adviser agrees to make its records and premises (including the availability of the Sub-Adviser's employees for interviews) to the extent that they relate to the conduct of services provided to the Fund or the Sub-Adviser's conduct of its business as an investment adviser reasonably available for compliance audits by the Adviser or a Fund's employees, accountants or counsel; in this regard, the Fund and the Adviser acknowledge that the Sub-Adviser shall have no obligations to make available proprietary information unrelated to the services provided to the Fund or any information related to other clients of the Sub-Adviser, except to the extent necessary for the Adviser to confirm the absence of any conflict of interest and compliance with any laws, rules or regulations in the management of the Fund.
(c) BOARD AND FILINGS INFORMATION. The Sub-Adviser will also provide the Adviser with any information reasonably requested regarding its management of the Fundrequired for any meeting of the Board, or for any shareholder report, amended registration statement, proxy statement, or prospectus supplement to be filed by the Fund with the Commission. The Sub-Adviser will make its officers and employees available to meet with the Board from time to time on due notice to review its investment management services to the Fund in light of current and prospective economic and market conditions and shall furnish to the Board such information as may reasonably be necessary in order for the Board to evaluate this Agreement or any proposed amendments thereto.
(d) TRANSACTION INFORMATION. The Sub-Adviser shall furnish to the Adviser such information concerning portfolio transactions as may be necessary to enable the Adviser to perform such compliance testing on the Fund and the Sub-Adviser's services as the Adviser may, in its sole discretion, determine to be appropriate. The provision of such information by the Sub-Adviser in no way relieves the Sub-Adviser of its own responsibilities under this Agreement.
4. BROKERAGE.
(a) PRINCIPAL TRANSACTIONS. In connection with purchases or sales of securities for the account of a Fund, neither the Sub-Adviser nor any of its directors, officers or employees will act as a principal or agent or receive any commission except as permitted by the 1940 Act.
(b) PLACEMENT OF ORDERS. The Sub-Adviser shall arrange for the placing of all orders for the purchase and sale of securities for a Fund's account with brokers or dealers selected by the
Sub-Adviser. In the selection of such brokers or dealers and the placing of such orders, the Sub-Adviser is directed at all times to seek for a Fund the most favorable execution and net price available under the circumstances. It is also understood that it is desirable for the Fund that the Sub-Adviser have access to brokerage and research services provided by brokers who may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to the Fund than may result when allocating brokerage to other brokers, consistent with section 28(e) of the 1934 Act and any Commission staff interpretations thereof. Therefore, the Sub-Adviser is authorized to place orders for the purchase and sale of securities for the Fund with such brokers, subject to review by the Adviser and the Board from time to time with respect to the extent and continuation of this practice. It is understood that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-Adviser in connection with its or its affiliates' services to other clients.
(c) AGGREGATED TRANSACTIONS. On occasions when the Sub-Adviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interest of a Fund as well as other clients of the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Adviser may, to the extent permitted by applicable law and regulations, aggregate the order for securities to be sold or purchased. In such event, the Sub-Adviser will allocate securities or futures contracts so purchased or sold, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, in the manner the Sub-Adviser reasonably considers to be equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to a Fund and to such other clients under the circumstances.
(d) AFFILIATED BROKERS. The Sub-Adviser or any of its affiliates may act as broker in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or other investments for a Fund, subject to: (a) the requirement that the Sub-Adviser seek to obtain best execution and price within the policy guidelines determined by the Board and set forth in a Fund's current prospectus and SAI; (b) the provisions of the 1940 Act; (c) the provisions of the 1934 Act; and (d) other provisions of applicable law. These brokerage services are not within the scope of the duties of the Sub-Adviser under this Agreement. Subject to the requirements of applicable law and any procedures adopted by the Board, the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates may receive brokerage commissions, fees or other remuneration from a Fund for these services in addition to the Sub-Adviser's fees for services under this Agreement.
5. CUSTODY. Nothing in this Agreement shall permit the Sub-Adviser to take or receive physical possession of cash, securities or other investments of a Fund.
6. ALLOCATION OF CHARGES AND EXPENSES. The Sub-Adviser will bear its own costs of providing services hereunder. Other than as herein specifically indicated, the Sub-Adviser shall not be responsible for a Fund's or the Adviser's expenses, including brokerage and other expenses incurred in placing orders for the purchase and sale of securities and other investment instruments.
7. REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES AND COVENANTS.
(a) Properly Registered. The Sub-Adviser is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act, and will remain so registered for the duration of this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser is not prohibited by the Advisers Act or the 1940 Act from performing the services contemplated by this Agreement, and to the best knowledge of the Sub-Adviser, there is no proceeding or investigation that is reasonably likely to result in the Sub-Adviser being prohibited from performing the services contemplated by this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser agrees to promptly notify the Trust of the occurrence of any event that would disqualify the Sub-Adviser from serving as an investment adviser to an investment company. The Sub-Adviser is in
compliance in all material respects with all applicable federal and state law in connection with its investment management operations.
(b) ADV DISCLOSURE. The Sub-Adviser has provided the Trust with a copy of Part I of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the Commission and its Part II as most recently updated and will, promptly after filing any amendment to its Form ADV with the Commission or updating its Part II, furnish a copy of such amendments or updates to the Trust. 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 were made, not misleading.
(c) FUND DISCLOSURE DOCUMENTS. The Sub-Adviser has reviewed and will in the future review, the Registration Statement, and any amendments or supplements thereto, the annual or semi-annual reports to shareholders, other reports filed with the Commission and any marketing material of a Fund (collectively the "Disclosure Documents") and represents and warrants that with respect to disclosure about the Sub-Adviser, the manner in which the Sub-Adviser manages the Fund or information relating directly or indirectly to the Sub-Adviser, such Disclosure Documents contain or will contain, as of the date thereof, no untrue statement of any material fact and does not omit any statement of material fact which was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements contained therein not misleading.
(d) USE OF THE NAME "FROST". The Sub-Adviser has the right to use the name "Frost" in connection with its services to the Trust and that, subject to the terms set forth in Section 8 of this Agreement, the Trust shall have the right to use the name "Frost " in connection with the management and operation of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser is not aware of any threatened or existing actions, claims, litigation or proceedings that would adversely affect or prejudice the rights of the Sub-Adviser or the Trust to use the name "Frost."
(e) INSURANCE. The Sub-Adviser maintains errors and omissions insurance coverage in an appropriate amount and shall provide prior written notice to the Trust (i) of any material changes in its insurance policies or insurance coverage; or (ii) if any material claims will be made on its insurance policies. Furthermore, the Sub-Adviser shall, upon reasonable request, provide the Trust with any information it may reasonably require concerning the amount of or scope of such insurance.
(f) NO DETRIMENTAL AGREEMENT. The Sub-Adviser represents and warrants that it has no arrangement or understanding with any party, other than the Trust, that would influence the decision of the Sub-Adviser with respect to its selection of securities for a Fund, and that all selections shall be done in accordance with what is in the best interest of the Fund.
(g) CONFLICTS. The Sub-Adviser shall act honestly, in good faith and in the best interests of the Trust including requiring any of its personnel with knowledge of Fund activities to place the interest of the Fund first, ahead of their own interests, in all personal trading scenarios that may involve a conflict of interest with the Fund, consistent with its fiduciary duties under applicable law.
(h) REPRESENTATIONS. The representations and warranties in this
Section 7 shall be deemed to be made on the date this Agreement is executed and
at the time of delivery of the quarterly compliance report required by Section
3(a), whether or not specifically referenced in such report.
8. THE NAME "FROST". The Adviser has granted to the Trust a license to use the name "Frost" as part of the name of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser and the Fund shall be obligated to use the name "Frost" in the name of the Fund during the period in which this Agreement remains in effect or the Sub-Adviser otherwise acts as sub-investment adviser for the Fund, except as agreed to by the Adviser. The foregoing authorization by the Adviser to the Trust to use said name as part of the name of the Fund is not exclusive of the right of the Adviser itself to use, or to authorize others to use, the same; the Sub-Adviser acknowledges and agrees that as between the Sub-Adviser and the Adviser, the Adviser has the exclusive right so to use, or authorize others to use, said name and the Sub-Adviser agrees to take such action as may reasonably be requested by the Adviser to give full effect to the provisions of this section. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Sub-Adviser agrees that, upon any termination of this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser will not thereafter transact any business using the name "Frost."
9. SUB-ADVISER'S COMPENSATION. The Adviser shall pay to the Sub-Adviser, as compensation for the Sub-Adviser's services hereunder, a fee, determined as described in Schedule A that is attached hereto and made a part hereof. Such fee shall be computed daily and paid monthly in arrears by the Adviser. The Fund shall have no responsibility for any fee payable to the Sub-Adviser.
The Sub-Adviser will be compensated based on the portion of Fund assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser. In the event of termination of this Agreement, the fee provided in this Section shall be computed on the basis of the period ending on the last business day on which this Agreement is in effect subject to a pro rata adjustment based on the number of days elapsed in the current month as a percentage of the total number of days in such month.
10. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR. In the performance of its duties hereunder, the Sub-Adviser is and shall be an independent contractor and, unless otherwise expressly provided herein or otherwise authorized in writing, shall have no authority to act for or represent the Fund or the Adviser in any way or otherwise be deemed to be an agent of the Fund or the Adviser. If any occasion should arise in which the Sub-Adviser gives any advice to its clients concerning the shares of a Fund, the Sub-Adviser will act solely as investment counsel for such clients and not in any way on behalf of the Fund.
11. ASSIGNMENT AND AMENDMENTS. This Agreement shall automatically terminate, without the payment of any penalty, (i) in the event of its assignment (as defined in section 2(a)(4) of the 1940 Act) or (ii) in the event of the termination of the Management Agreement; provided that such termination shall not relieve the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser of any liability incurred hereunder.
This Agreement may not be added to or changed orally and may not be modified or rescinded except by a writing signed by the parties hereto and in accordance with the 1940 Act, when applicable.
12. DURATION AND TERMINATION.
(a) This Agreement shall become effective as of the date executed and shall remain in full force and effect continually thereafter, subject to renewal as provided in Section 12(c) and unless terminated automatically as set forth in Section 11 hereof or until terminated as follows:
(a) The Adviser may at any time terminate this Agreement by not more than sixty (60) days' nor less than thirty (30) days' written notice delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to the Sub-Adviser. In addition, the Fund may cause this Agreement to terminate either (i) by vote of its Board or (ii) upon the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund; or
(b) The Sub-Adviser may at any time terminate this Agreement by not more than sixty (60) days' nor less than thirty (30) days' written notice delivered or mailed by registered mail, postage prepaid, to the Adviser; or
(c) This Agreement shall automatically terminate two years from the date of its execution unless its renewal is specifically approved at least annually thereafter by (i) a majority vote of the Trustees, including a majority vote of such Trustees who are not interested persons of the Fund, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser, at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval; or (ii) the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund; provided, however, that if the continuance of this Agreement is submitted to the shareholders of the Fund for their approval and such shareholders fail to approve such continuance of this Agreement as provided herein, the Sub-Adviser may continue to serve hereunder as to the Fund in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder; and
(d) Termination of this Agreement pursuant to this Section shall be without payment of any penalty.
In the event of termination of this Agreement for any reason, the Sub-Adviser shall, immediately upon notice of termination or on such later date as may be specified in such notice, cease all activity on behalf of the Fund and with respect to any Fund assets, except as expressly directed by the Adviser or as otherwise required by any fiduciary duties of the Sub-Adviser under applicable law. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall deliver the Fund's Books and Records to the Adviser by such means and in accordance with such schedule as the Adviser shall direct and shall otherwise cooperate, as reasonably directed by the Adviser, in the transition of portfolio asset management to any successor of the Sub-Adviser, including the Adviser.
13. CERTAIN DEFINITIONS. FOR THE PURPOSES OF THIS AGREEMENT:
(a) "Affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund" shall have the meaning as set forth in the 1940 Act, subject, however, to such exemptions as may be granted by the Commission under the 1940 Act or any interpretations of the Commission staff.
(b) "Interested persons" and "Assignment" shall have their respective meanings as set forth in the 1940 Act, subject, however, to such exemptions as may be granted by the Commission under the 1940 Act or any interpretations of the Commission staff.
14. LIABILITY OF THE SUB-ADVISER. The Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and
hold harmless the Trust and all affiliated persons thereof (within the meaning
of Section 2(a)(3) of the 1940 Act) and all controlling persons (as described
in Section 15 of the 1933 Act) (collectively, the "Sub-Adviser Indemnitees")
against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation
(including reasonable legal and other expenses) by reason of or arising out of:
(a) the Sub-Adviser being in material violation of any applicable federal or
state law, rule or regulation or any investment policy or restriction set forth
in the Fund's Registration Statement or any written guidelines or instruction
provided in writing by the Board, (b) a Fund's failure to satisfy the
diversification or source of income requirements of Subchapter M of the Code,
or (c) the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence generally
in the performance of its duties hereunder or its reckless disregard of its
obligations and duties under this Agreement.
15. ENFORCEABILITY. Any term or provision of this Agreement which is invalid or unenforceable in any jurisdiction shall, as to such jurisdiction be ineffective to the extent of such
invalidity or unenforceability without rendering invalid or unenforceable the remaining terms or provisions of this Agreement or affecting the validity or enforceability of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction.
16. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. The parties to this Agreement acknowledge and agree that all litigation arising hereunder, whether direct or indirect, and of any and every nature whatsoever shall be satisfied solely out of the assets of the affected Fund and that no Trustee, officer or holder of shares of beneficial interest of the Fund shall be personally liable for any of the foregoing liabilities. The Trust's Certificate of Trust, as amended from time to time, is on file in the Office of the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Such Certificate of Trust and the Trust's Agreement and Declaration of Trust describe in detail the respective responsibilities and limitations on liability of the Trustees, officers, and holders of shares of beneficial interest.
17. CHANGE IN THE ADVISER'S OWNERSHIP. The Sub-Adviser agrees that it shall notify the Trust of any anticipated or otherwise reasonably foreseeable change in the ownership of the Sub-Adviser within a reasonable time prior to such change being effected.
18. JURISDICTION. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the substantive laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Sub-Adviser consents to the jurisdiction of courts, both state or federal, in Massachusetts, with respect to any dispute under this Agreement.
19. PARAGRAPH HEADINGS. The headings of paragraphs contained in this Agreement are provided for convenience only, form no part of this Agreement and shall not affect its construction.
20. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be signed on their behalf by their duly authorized officers as of the date first above written.
FROST INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
By: /s/ illegible signature ---------------------------- Name: Title: |
CAMBIAR INVESTORS, LLC
By: /s/ Christine M. Simon ---------------------------- Name: Christine M. Simon Title: Senior Vice President |
SCHEDULE A
TO THE
SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
DATED JUNE 16, 2010 BETWEEN
FROST INVESTMENT ADVISORS, LLC
AND
CAMBIAR INVESTORS, LLC
The Adviser will pay to the Sub-Adviser as compensation for the Sub-Adviser's services rendered, a fee, computed daily at an annual rate based on the average daily net assets of the respective Fund as may be allocated by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser from time to time under the following fee schedule:
Fund Rate --------------------------- ------ Frost Small Cap Equity Fund 0.62% |
SCHEDULE A
TO THE
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
DATED ____________, 2008 BETWEEN
THE ADVISORS' INNER CIRCLE FUND II
AND
GRT CAPITAL PARTNERS, LLC.
The Trust will pay to the Adviser as compensation for the Adviser's services rendered, a fee, computed daily at an annual rate based on the average daily net assets of the Fund in accordance the following fee schedule:
FUND RATE ---- ---- GRT Value Fund ................................................ 0.95% GRT Absolute Return Fund ...................................... 1.00% |
CHAMPLAIN
INVESTMENT ADVISER
CODE OF ETHICS
(C) Copyright 2008, National Regulatory Services. All rights reserved.
Table of Contents
1 - Firm Vision 3 2 - Statement of General Policy 4 3 - Definitions 5 4 - Standards of Business Conduct 6 5 - Personal Securities Transactions 7 6 - Gifts and Entertainment 8 7 - Political Contributions 9 8 - Protecting the Confidentiality of Client Information 10 9 - Service as an Officer or Director 12 10 - Compliance Procedures 13 11 - Certification 15 12 - Records 16 13 - Reporting Violations and Sanctions 17 14 - Prohibition Against Insider Trading 18 |
Firm Vision
Champlain Investment Partners, LLC is an institutionally focused employee owned firm dedicated to delivering exceptional investment results and developing enduring client relationships. Champlain was founded on the core concept that goals of our clients and the goals for our firm will always be aligned. The firm and its people will act with integrity and speak plainly. Consistent with the concepts of alignment and integrity, Champlain and its people shall strive for excellence, continuous improvement and intellectual honesty in all activities. Importantly, while the consistent and disciplined execution our investment process will distinguish us from most competitors, we will evolve as warranted by the creative destruction process inherent in the marketplace.
Champlain's people respect each other. This mutual respect translates into a commitment to sustain a culture of high performance as well as a positive, supportive and professionally dynamic environment. Mutual respect also means that we must clearly and effectively communicate expectations of each other, and that we also are accountable to each other and to the firm's vision. Furthermore, consistent with the principles of respect and accountability -- compensation will be highly correlated to contribution.
Statement of General Policy
This Code of Ethics ("Code") has been adopted by Champlain and is designed to comply with Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 ("Advisers Act").
This Code establishes rules of conduct for all employees of Champlain and is designed to, among other things, govern personal securities trading activities in the accounts of employees, immediate family accounts and accounts in which an employee has a beneficial interest. The Code is based upon the principle that Champlain and its employees owe a fiduciary duty to Champlain's clients to conduct their affairs, including their personal securities transactions, in such a manner as to avoid (i) serving their own personal interests ahead of clients, (ii) taking inappropriate advantage of their position with the firm and (iii) any actual or potential conflicts of interest or any abuse of their position of trust and responsibility.
The Code is designed to ensure that the high ethical standards maintained by Champlain continue to be applied. The purpose of the Code is to preclude activities which may lead to or give the appearance of conflicts of interest, insider trading and other forms of prohibited or unethical business conduct. The excellent name and reputation of our firm continues to be a direct reflection of the conduct of each employee.
Pursuant to Section 206 of the Advisers Act, both Champlain and its employees are prohibited from engaging in fraudulent, deceptive or manipulative conduct. Compliance with this section involves more than acting with honesty and good faith alone. It means that the Champlain has an affirmative duty of utmost good faith to act solely in the best interest of its clients.
Champlain and its employees are subject to the following specific fiduciary obligations when dealing with clients:
o The duty to have a reasonable, independent basis for the investment advice provided;
o The duty to obtain best execution for a client's transactions where the Firm is in a position to direct brokerage transactions for the client;
o The duty to ensure that investment advice is suitable to meeting the client's individual objectives, needs and circumstances; and
o A duty to be loyal to clients.
In meeting its fiduciary responsibilities to its clients, Champlain expects every employee to demonstrate the highest standards of ethical conduct for continued employment with Champlain. The provisions of the Code are not all-inclusive. Rather, they are intended as a guide for employees of Champlain in their conduct. In those situations where an employee may be uncertain as to the intent or purpose of the Code, he/she is advised to consult with the Chief Compliance Officer. The Chief Compliance Officer may grant exceptions to certain provisions contained in the Code only in those situations when it is clear beyond dispute that the interests of our clients will not be adversely affected or compromised. All questions arising in connection with personal securities trading should be resolved in favor of the client even at the expense of the interests of employees.
The Chief Compliance Officer will periodically report to the Managing Partners of Champlain to document compliance with this Code.
Definitions
For the purposes of this Code, the following definitions shall apply:
"Account" means accounts of any employee and includes accounts of the employee's immediate family members (any relative by blood or marriage living in the employee's household), and any account in which he or she has a direct or indirect beneficial interest, such as trusts and custodial accounts or other accounts in which the employee has a beneficial interest, controls or exercises investment discretion.
"Reportable security" means any security as defined in Section 202(a)(18) of
the Advisers Act, except that it does not include: (i) Transactions and
holdings in direct obligations of the Government of the United States; (ii)
Bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper and other
high quality short-term debt instruments, including repurchase agreements;
(iii) Shares issued by money market funds; (iv) Transactions and holdings in
shares of other types of open-end registered mutual funds, unless Champlain
acts as the investment adviser or principal underwriter for the fund; and (v)
Transactions in units of a unit investment trust if the unit investment trust
is invested exclusively in mutual funds. TRANSACTIONS IN CHAMPLAIN FUNDS (CIPSX
AND CIPMX), ANY EXCHANGE TRADED FUND (ETF) AND MUNICIPAL BONDS ARE REPORTABLE.
All employees of Champlain are "supervised persons" under this Code.
"Beneficial 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 the beneficial owner of a security for purposes of Section 16 of such Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.
'Fund' means an investment company registered under the Investment Company Act.
'Reportable Fund' means any registered investment company, i.e., mutual fund, for which our Firm, or a control affiliate, acts as investment adviser, as defined in section 2(a) (20) of the Investment Company Act, or principal underwriter.
Standards of Business Conduct
Champlain places the highest priority on maintaining its reputation for integrity and professionalism. That reputation is a vital business asset. The confidence and trust placed in our firm and it's employees by our clients is something we value and endeavor to protect. The following Standards of Business Conduct sets forth policies and procedures to achieve these goals. This Code is intended to comply with the various provisions of the Advisers Act and also requires that all supervised persons comply with the various applicable provisions of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and applicable rules and regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC").
Section 204A of the Advisers Act requires the establishment and enforcement of policies and procedures reasonably designed to prevent the misuse of material, nonpublic information by investment advisers. Such policies and procedures are contained in this Code. The Code also contains policies and procedures with respect to personal securities transactions of all Champlain's supervised persons as defined herein. These procedures cover transactions in a reportable security in which a supervised person has a beneficial interest in or accounts over which the supervised person exercises control as well as transactions by members of the supervised person's immediate family.
Supervised persons of Champlain Investment Partners, LLC certify upon hiring and annually thereafter any disciplinary history regarding investment related activities, or any conduct that would have a potentially disqualifying effect upon the employee's investment related activities. Any disciplinary actions brought against an employee must be promptly disclosed to the Chief Compliance Officer.
In addition, no employee shall originate or circulate in any manner a rumor concerning any security which the individual knows or has reasonable grounds for believing is false or misleading or would improperly influence the market price of such security. All personnel are unequivocally prohibited from communicating or transmitting 'false rumors' or other information regarding portfolio investments, potential portfolio investments, publically trading companies, or any other investment institution which such person does not know or reasonably believe to be true to any person outside of the Company for any reason.
Rumors may not be used to effect personal client trading activities, may not be used in an attempt to illegally manipulate the market, may not be used in an attempt to affect the pricing of a security, and may not be communicated in any form to others (with the exception of the CCO). Personnel must promptly report to the CCO any circumstance which reasonably would lead the individual to believe that any such rumor might have been originated or circulated.
Personal Securities Transactions
General Policy
Champlain has adopted the following principles governing personal investment activities by Champlain's supervised persons:
o The interests of client accounts will at all times be placed first;
o All personal securities transactions will be conducted in such manner as to avoid any actual or potential conflict of interest or any abuse of an individual's position of trust and responsibility; and
o Employees must not take inappropriate advantage of their positions.
Personal Security Trading Limitations
Purchases by supervised persons in individual equity securities will be
restricted to those which have a total market capitalization of at least $25
billion, or in options on such securities. Employees are permitted to short
positions in individual securities with market capitalization in excess of $25
billion; buys to cover these shorts are permitted even when the market
capitalization falls below $25 billion, as long as the managed portfolios are
not active in the securities. Trades in closed-end funds are not restricted by
market capitalization, but must be precleared.
No employee shall acquire any beneficial ownership in shares of any GEAM Small
Cap Equity Funds.
No employee shall acquire any beneficial ownership in any securities in an Initial Public Offering.
Pre-Clearance Required for Private or Limited Offerings
No employee shall acquire beneficial ownership of any securities in a limited offering or private placement without the prior written approval of Wendy Nunez who has been provided with full details of the proposed transaction (including written certification that the investment opportunity did not arise by virtue of the employee's activities on behalf of a client) and, if approved, will be subject to continuous monitoring for possible future conflicts.
Interested Transactions
No employee shall recommend any securities transactions for a client without having disclosed his or her interest, if any, in such securities or the issuer thereof, including without limitation:
o any direct or indirect beneficial ownership of any securities of such issuer;
o any contemplated transaction by such person in such securities;
o any position with such issuer or its affiliates; and
o any present or proposed business relationship between such issuer or its affiliates and such person or any party in which such person has a significant interest.
Gifts and Entertainment
Giving, receiving or soliciting gifts in a business setting may create an appearance of impropriety or may raise a potential conflict of interest. Champlain has adopted the policies set forth below to guide employees in this area.
General Policy
Champlain's policy with respect to gifts and entertainment is as follows:
o Giving, receiving or soliciting gifts in a business may give rise to an appearance of impropriety or may raise a potential conflict of interest;
o Supervised persons should not accept or provide any gifts or favors that might influence the decisions you or the recipient must make in business transactions involving Champlain, or that others might reasonably believe would influence those decisions;
o Modest gifts and favors, which would not be regarded by others as improper, may be accepted or given on an occasional basis. Entertainment that satisfies these requirements and conforms to generally accepted business practices also is permissible.
Reporting Requirements
o Any employee who accepts or receives, directly or indirectly, anything of value from any person or entity that does business with or on behalf of Champlain, including gifts and gratuities with value in excess of $100 per year, must obtain consent from the Chief Operating Officer or Chief Compliance Officer before accepting or receiving such gift.
o This reporting requirement does not apply to bona fide dining or bona fide entertainment if, during such dining or entertainment, you are accompanied by the person or representative of the entity that does business with Champlain.
o This gift reporting requirement is for the purpose of helping Champlain monitor the activities of its employees. However, the reporting of a gift does not relieve any employee from the obligations and policies set forth in this section or anywhere else in this Code. If you have any questions or concerns about the appropriateness of any gift, please consult the Chief Operating Officer or Chief Compliance Officer.
Political Contributions
Political contributions or payments made to government officials may appear as a 'pay to play' tactic and an effort to influence the selection of investment advisers to manage state and local government assets. Champlain has adopted the policies set forth below to guide supervised persons and individuals within their household in this area.
General Policy
Champlain's policy with respect to political contributions begins with any contributions made January 1, 2010 going forward:
o Political contribution may be made up to $250 per election per candidate, as long as the supervised person is entitled to vote for that candidate.
o An individual within a supervised person's household may not make contributions to a candidate they are not entitled to vote for.
o A payment may not be made to an unaffiliated third party to solicit government entities for advisory business.
o An individual within a supervised person's household may not solicit or coordinate contributions for a government official or entity to which the adviser is seeking to provide investment advisory services.
o An individual within a supervised person's household may not solicit payments for the political party of a government entity in a state or locality where the supervised person is providing or seeking to provide investment management services.
Reporting Requirements
o An individual within a supervised person's household who makes a political contribution, directly or indirectly, must report the dollar value, date, and the name of the receiving party to the Chief Compliance Officer.
o The Chief Compliance Officer must maintain records of political contributions or payments to government officials made by an individual within a supervised person's household.
o This political contribution reporting requirement is for the purpose of monitoring the activities of Champlain's supervised persons. However, the reporting of a contribution does not relieve any supervised persons from the obligations and policies set forth in this section or anywhere else in this Code. If you have any questions or concerns about the appropriateness of any contribution, please consult the Chief Operating Officer or Chief Compliance Officer.
Protecting the Confidentiality of Client Information
Confidential Client Information
In the course of investment advisory activities of Champlain, the firm gains access to non-public information about its clients. Such information may include a person's status as a client, personal financial and account information, the allocation of assets in a client portfolio, the composition of investments in any client portfolio, information relating to services performed for or transactions entered into on behalf of clients, advice provided by Champlain to clients, and data or analyses derived from such non-public personal information (collectively referred to as 'Confidential Client Information'). All Confidential Client Information, whether relating to Champlain's current or former clients, is subject to the Code's policies and procedures. Any doubts about the confidentiality of information must be resolved in favor of confidentiality.
Non-Disclosure Of Confidential Client Information
All information regarding Champlain's clients is confidential. Information may only be disclosed when the disclosure is consistent with the firm's policy and the client's direction. Champlain does not share Confidential Client Information with any third parties, except in the following circumstances:
o As necessary to provide service that the client requested or authorized, or to maintain and service the client's account. Champlain will require that any financial intermediary, agent or other service provider utilized by Champlain (such as broker- dealers or sub- advisers) comply with substantially similar standards for non- disclosure and protection of Confidential Client Information and use the information provided by Champlain only for the performance of the specific service requested by Champlain;
o As required by regulatory authorities or law enforcement officials who have jurisdiction over Champlain, or as otherwise required by any applicable law. In the event Champlain is compelled to disclose Confidential Client Information, the firm shall provide prompt notice to the clients affected, so that the clients may seek a protective order or other appropriate remedy. If no protective order or other appropriate remedy is obtained, Champlain shall disclose only such information, and only in such detail, as is legally required;
o To the extent reasonably necessary to prevent fraud, unauthorized transactions or liability.
Employee Responsibilities
All supervised persons are prohibited, either during or after the termination of their employment with Champlain, from disclosing Confidential Client Information to any person or entity outside the firm, including family members, except under the circumstances described above. A supervised person is permitted to disclose Confidential Client Information only to such other supervised persons who need to have access to such information to deliver the Champlain's services to the client.
Supervised persons are also prohibited from making unauthorized copies of any documents or files containing Confidential Client Information and, upon termination of their employment with Champlain, must return all such documents to Champlain.
Any supervised person who violates the non-disclosure policy described above will be subject to disciplinary action, including possible termination, whether or not he or she benefited from the disclosed information.
Security Of Confidential Personal Information
Champlain enforces the following policies and procedures to protect the security of Confidential Client Information:
o The firm restricts access to Confidential Client Information to those supervised persons who need to know such information to provide Champlain's services to clients;
o Any supervised person who is authorized to have access to Confidential Client Information in connection with the performance of such person's duties and responsibilities is required to keep such information in a secure compartment, file or receptacle on a daily basis as of the close of each business day;
o All electronic or computer files containing any Confidential Client Information shall be password secured and firewall protected from access by unauthorized persons;
o Any conversations involving Confidential Client Information, if appropriate at all, must be conducted by supervised persons in private, and care must be taken to avoid any unauthorized persons overhearing or intercepting such conversations.
Privacy Policy
As a registered investment adviser, Champlain and all supervised persons, must comply with SEC Regulation S-P, which requires investment advisers to adopt policies and procedures to protect the 'nonpublic personal information' of natural person clients. 'Nonpublic information,' under Regulation S-P, includes personally identifiable financial information and any list, description, or grouping that is derived from personally identifiable financial information. Personally identifiable financial information is defined to include information supplied by individual clients, information resulting from transactions, any information obtained in providing products or services. Pursuant to Regulation S-P Champlain has adopted policies and procedures to safeguard the information of natural person clients.
Enforcement and Review of Confidentiality and Privacy Policies
The Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for reviewing, maintaining and enforcing Champlain's confidentiality and privacy policies and is also responsible for conducting appropriate employee training to ensure adherence to these policies.
Service as an Officer or Director
No supervised person shall serve on the board of directors of any publicly traded company without prior authorization by the Chief Compliance Officer based upon a determination that such board service would be consistent with the interest of Champlain's clients.
Compliance Procedures
Pre-clearance
A supervise person may, directly or indirectly, acquire or dispose of
beneficial ownership of a reportable security only if: (i) such purchase or
sale has been approved by a supervisory person designated by Champlain firm;
(ii) the approved transaction is completed by the close of business on the day
approval is received; and (iii) the designated supervisory person has not
rescinded such approval prior to execution of the transaction.
Clearance must be obtained by forwarding an email requesting permission to trade to the Head Trader, with a copy to the Chief Compliance Officer. In the event that the Head Trader is unavailable, the Chief Compliance Officer or the Chief Operating Officer may pre-clear a transaction. These three individuals are the only people authorized to pre-clear employees' personal securities transactions.
The Chief Compliance Officer monitors all transactions by all supervised persons in order to ascertain any pattern of conduct which may evidence conflicts or potential conflicts with the principles and objectives of this Code. Advance trade clearance in no way waives or absolves any supervised person of the obligation to abide by the provisions, principles and objectives of this Code.
Transactions in The Champlain Funds, any Exchange Traded Funds and Municipal Bonds are exempt from pre-clearance, however must be reported quarterly.
Reporting Requirements
Every supervised person shall provide initial and annual holdings reports and quarterly transaction reports to the Chief Compliance Officer, which must contain the information described below. It is the policy of Champlain that each supervised person must arrange for their brokerage firm(s) to send automatic duplicate brokerage account statements and trade confirmations of all securities transactions to the Chief Compliance Officer.
1. Initial Holdings Report
Every supervised person shall, no later than ten (10) days after the person becomes an supervised person, file an initial holdings report containing the following information:
o The title and exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, type of security, number of shares and principal amount (if applicable) of each reportable security in which the supervised person had any direct or indirect beneficial interest ownership when the person becomes an supervised person;
o The name of any broker, dealer or bank, account name, number and location with whom the supervised person maintained an account in which any securities were held for the direct or indirect benefit of the supervised person; and
o The date that the report is submitted by the supervised person.
o Any outside employment or business activity.
The information submitted must be current as of a date no more than forty-five
(45) days before the person became an supervised person.
2. Annual Holdings Report
Every supervised person shall, no later than October 31 each year, file an annual holdings report containing the same information required in the initial holdings report as described above. The information submitted must be current as of a date no more than forty-five (45) days before the annual report is submitted.
3. Quarterly Transaction Reports
Every supervised person must, no later than thirty (30) days after the end of each calendar quarter, file a quarterly transaction report containing the following information:
With respect to any transaction during the quarter in a reportable security in which the supervised persons had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership:
o The date of the transaction, the title and exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, the interest rate and maturity date (if applicable), the number of shares and the principal amount (if applicable) of each covered security;
o The nature of the transaction (i. e. , purchase, sale or any other type of acquisition or disposition);
o The price of the reportable security at which the transaction was effected;
o The name of the broker, dealer or bank with or through whom the transaction was effected; and
o The date the report is submitted by the supervised person.
4. Exempt Transactions
A supervised person need not submit a report with respect to:
o Transactions effected for, securities held in, any account over which the person has no direct or indirect influence or control;
o Transactions effected pursuant to an automatic investment plan;
o A quarterly transaction report if the report would duplicate information contained in securities transaction confirmations or brokerage account statements that Champlain holds in its records so long as the firm receives the confirmations or statements no later than 30 days after the end of the applicable calendar quarter.
5. Monitoring and Review of Personal Securities Transactions
The Chief Compliance Officer will monitor and review all reports required under the Code for compliance with Champlain's policies regarding personal securities transactions and applicable SEC rules and regulations. She may also initiate inquiries of supervised persons regarding personal securities trading. Supervised persons are required to cooperate with such inquiries and any monitoring or review procedures employed Champlain. Any transactions for any accounts of the Chief Compliance Officer will be monitored by the Chief Operating Officer.
Certification
Initial Certification
All supervised persons will be provided with a copy of the Code and must
initially certify in writing to the Chief Compliance Officer that they have:
(i) received a copy of the Code; (ii) read and understand all provisions of the
Code; (iii) agreed to abide by the Code; and (iv) reported all account holdings
as required by the Code.
Acknowledgement of Amendments
All supervised persons shall receive any amendments to the Code and must certify to the Chief Compliance Officer in writing that they have: (i) received a copy of the amendment; (ii) read and understood the amendment; (iii) and agreed to abide by the Code as amended.
Annual Certification
All supervised persons must annually certify in writing to the Chief Compliance
Officer that they have: (i) read and understood all provisions of the Code;
(ii) complied with all requirements of the Code; and (iii) submitted all
holdings and transaction reports as required by the Code.
Further Information
Supervised persons should contact the Chief Compliance Officer regarding any inquiries pertaining to the Code or the policies established herein.
Records
The Chief Compliance Officer shall maintain and cause to be maintained in a readily accessible place the following records:
o A copy of any Code of Ethics adopted by the Firm pursuant to Advisers Act Rule 204A-1 which is or has been in effect during the past five years;
o A record of any violation of Champlain's Code and any action that was taken as a result of such violation for a period of five years from the end of the fiscal year in which the violation occurred;
o A record of all written acknowledgements of receipt of the Code and amendments thereto for each person who is currently, or within the past five years was, a supervised person which shall be retained for five years after the individual ceases to be a supervised person of Champlain;
o A copy of each report made pursuant to Advisers Act Rule 204A-1, including any brokerage confirmations and account statements made in lieu of these reports;
o A list of all persons who are, or within the preceding five years have been, access persons;
o A record of any decision and reasons supporting such decision to approve a supervised persons' acquisition of securities in IPOs and limited offerings within the past five years after the end of the fiscal year in which such approval is granted.
Reporting Violations and Sanctions
All supervised persons shall promptly report to the Chief Compliance Officer all apparent violations of the Code. Any retaliation for the reporting of a violation under this Code will constitute a violation of the Code.
The Chief Compliance Officer shall promptly report to the Managing Partners all apparent material violations of the Code. The Managing Partners shall consider reports made to it hereunder and shall determine whether or not the Code has been violated and what sanctions, if any, should be imposed. Possible sanctions may include reprimands, monetary fine or assessment, or suspension or termination of the employee's employment with the firm.
Prohibition Against Insider Trading
Introduction
Trading securities while in possession of material, nonpublic information, or improperly communicating that information to others may expose supervised persons and Champlain to stringent penalties. The rules contained in this Code apply to securities trading and information handling by supervised persons of Champlain and their immediate family members.
The law of insider trading is unsettled and continuously developing, as are the rules around rumor mongering. An individual legitimately may be uncertain about the application of the rules contained in this Code in a particular circumstance. Often, a single question can avoid disciplinary action or complex legal problems. You must notify the Chief Compliance Officer immediately if you have any reason to believe that a violation of this Code has occurred or is about to occur.
General Policy
No supervised person may trade, either personally or on behalf of others (such as investment funds and private accounts managed by Champlain), while in the possession of material, nonpublic information, nor may any personnel of Champlain communicate material, nonpublic information to others in violation of the law. Disseminating information, regardless of validity, with the intent of manipulating the markets is prohibited. The spreading of false rumors or trading on information that is known to be false will not be tolerated.
1. What is Material Information?
Information is material where there is a substantial likelihood that a reasonable investor would consider it important in making his or her investment decisions. Generally, this includes any information the disclosure of which will have a substantial effect on the price of a company's securities. No simple test exists to determine when information is material; assessments of materiality involve a highly fact-specific inquiry. For this reason, you should direct any questions about whether information is material to 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, liquidation 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 material. Prepublication information regarding reports in the financial press also may be material. For example, the United States Supreme Court upheld the criminal convictions of insider trading defendants who capitalized on prepublication information about The Wall Street Journal's "Heard on the Street" column.
You should also be aware of the SEC's position that the term "material nonpublic information" relates not only to issuers but also to Champlain's securities recommendations and client securities holdings and transactions.
2. What is Nonpublic Information?
Information is "public" when it has been disseminated broadly to investors in the marketplace. For example, information is public after it has become available to the general public through the internet, a public filing with the SEC or some other government 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 executing any trade for yourself or others, including investment funds or private accounts managed by Champlain ("Client Accounts"), you must determine whether you have access to material, nonpublic information. If you think that you might have access to material, nonpublic information, you should take the following steps:
o Report the information and proposed trade immediately to the Chief Compliance Officer.
o Do not purchase or sell the securities on behalf of yourself or others, including investment funds or private accounts managed by the firm.
o Do not communicate the information inside or outside the firm, other than to the Chief Compliance Officer.
o After the Chief Compliance Officer has reviewed the issue, the firm will determine whether the information is material and nonpublic and, if so, what action the firm will take.
You should consult with the Chief Compliance Officer before taking any action. This high degree of caution will protect you, our clients, and the firm.
4. Contacts with Public Companies
Contacts with public companies may represent an important part of our research efforts. The firm may make investment decisions on the basis of conclusions formed through such contacts and analysis of publicly available information. Difficult legal issues arise, however, when, in the course of these contacts, a supervised person of Champlain 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 selective disclosure of adverse news to a handful of investors. In such situations, Champlain must make a judgment as to its further conduct. To protect yourself, your clients and the firm, you should contact the Chief Compliance Officer immediately if you believe that you 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 the possession of material, nonpublic information regarding a tender offer received from the tender offeror, the target company or anyone acting on behalf of either. Supervised persons of Champlain should exercise extreme caution any time they become aware of nonpublic information relating to a tender offer.
6. Restricted/Watch Lists
Although Champlain does not typically receive confidential information from portfolio companies, it may, if it receives such information take appropriate procedures to establish restricted or watch lists in certain securities.
The Chief Compliance Officer may place certain securities on a "restricted list." Supervised persons are prohibited from personally, or on behalf of an advisory account, purchasing or selling securities during any period they are listed.
The Chief Compliance Officer may place certain securities on a "watch list." Securities issued by companies about which a limited number of supervised persons possess material, nonpublic information should generally be placed on the watch list. The list will be disclosed only to the traders and a limited number of other persons who are deemed necessary recipients of the list because of their roles in compliance.
THORNBURG INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
CODE OF BUSINESS CONDUCT AND ETHICS
MARCH 2010
POLICY OBJECTIVES
Honesty and integrity are hallmarks of Thornburg Investment Management, Inc. (the "Firm"). The Firm has a fiduciary obligation to its Investment Clients, and the Firm seeks the highest standards of ethics and conduct in all of its business relationships.
This Code has been adopted by the Firm pursuant to paragraphs (a)(1), (2), (4) and (5) of Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 with the objectives of deterring wrongdoing and (1) providing standards of honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships, (2) promoting full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in reports and documents which the Firm files with the Securities and Exchange Commission and in other public communications made by the Firm, (3) promoting compliance with applicable governmental laws, rules and regulations, (4) facilitating prompt internal reporting of violations of this Code, and (5) providing accountability for adherence to this Code.
This code and the separately adopted Policy on Personal Securities Transactions in accordance with paragraphs (a)(3) and (b) of Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 is intended to be the Investment Adviser's code of ethics described in paragraph (a)(1), (2), (4) and (5) of Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
All records and reports created or maintained pursuant to this Code are intended solely for the internal use of the Firm, are confidential, and in no event constitute an admission by any person as to any fact, circumstance or legal conclusion.
This Code is intended to coordinate with the Thornburg Investment Trust Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (September 10, 2003). Where appropriate or necessary, specific sections of this Code include a coordinating provision referencing the appropriate section of the Thornburg Investment Trust Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.
Please see the Glossary of Terms for definitions of terms used in this Code.
COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS, RULES AND REGULATIONS
The Firm expects its Supervised Persons to comply with all laws, rules and regulations applicable to its operation and business. Supervised Persons should seek guidance
whenever they are in doubt as to the applicability of any law, rule or
regulation regarding any contemplated course of action. The Firm holds
information and training sessions to promote compliance with laws, rules and
regulations, including insider trading laws. Please consult the various
guidelines and policies which the Firm has prepared in accordance with specific
laws and regulations.
A GOOD GUIDELINE, IF IN DOUBT ON A COURSE OF ACTION, IS "ALWAYS ASK FIRST, ACT
LATER -- IF YOU ARE UNSURE OF WHAT TO DO IN ANY SITUATION, SEEK GUIDANCE BEFORE
YOU ACT."
As a registered investment adviser, the Firm is subject to regulation by the Securities and Exchange Commission, and compliance with federal, state and local laws. The Firm insists on strict compliance with the spirit and the letter of these laws and regulations.
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
Each Supervised Person should be scrupulous in avoiding any conflict of interest with regard to the Firm's interest. A "conflict of interest" occurs when an individual's private interest interferes with the interests of the Firm or its Investment Clients. A conflict situation can arise when a Supervised Person pursues interests that prevent the individual from performing his duties for the Firm or an Investment Client objectively and effectively. Conflicts of interest also arise when a Supervised Person or member of the individual's family receives undisclosed, improper benefits as a result of the individual's positions with the Firm. ANY CONFLICT OF INTEREST THAT ARISES IN A SPECIFIC SITUATION OR TRANSACTION MUST BE DISCLOSED BY THE INDIVIDUAL AND RESOLVED BEFORE TAKING ANY ACTION.
Matters involving a conflict of interest are prohibited as a matter of policy, except when approved by the Firm's president or Chief Compliance Officer. Conflicts of interest may not always be evident, and individuals should consult with higher levels of management or legal counsel if they are uncertain about any situation. In no event, however, shall investment in any security made in accordance with the Firm's Policy on Personal Securities Transactions (or comparable policy or code then in effect) be considered a conflict of interest with the Firm.
Comment: This section relating to conflicts of interest is substantially similar to the comparable section in the Thornburg Investment Trust Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, but Supervised Persons should recognize that (i) the Trust's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics governs conflicts with interest of the Trust, rather than the Firm and its Clients, and (ii) the procedures for reporting and resolving conflict under the Trust's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is different from the Procedure under this Code. If an interest of the Supervised Person appears to conflict with an interest of the Trust and the Firm), the Supervised Person should make a disclosure and seek any approval under the Trust's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.
CORPORATE OPPORTUNITIES
Supervised Persons shall not take for themselves personally opportunities that are discovered through the use of their position with the Firm, except with the approval of the Firm's President or Chief Compliance Officer. Supervised Persons of the Firm owe a duty to the Firm to advance its legitimate interests when the opportunity to do so arises. In no event, however, shall investment in any security made in accordance with the Firm's Policy on Personal Securities Transactions (or comparable policy or code then in
effect) be considered a business opportunity of the Firm.
Comment: This section relating to corporate opportunities is substantially the same as the comparable section on the Thornburg Investment Trust Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, but Supervised Persons should recognize that (i) the Trust's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics governs opportunities of the Trust, rather than the Firm, and (ii) the procedures for reporting and obtaining an approval under the Trust's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is different from the procedure under this Code. If an opportunity appears to relate both to the business of the Trust and the Firm, the Supervised Person should make disclosure and seek any approval under the Trust's Code of Business Conduct and Ethics.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Supervised Persons shall exercise care in maintaining the confidentiality of any confidential information respecting the Firm or its Investment Clients, except when disclosure is authorized or legally mandated. Supervised Persons should consult with the Firm's Chief Compliance Officer or legal counsel if they believe that have a legal obligation to disclose confidential information. Confidential information includes nonpublic information of the Firm that may be helpful to competitors, or otherwise harmful to the Firm, or its Investment Clients. Confidential information also includes information respecting the portfolio holdings of Investment Clients (including particularly Investment Company Clients). The obligation to preserve confidentiality of this information continues after association with the Firm ends.
Comment: Attention is directed to the Internal Confidentiality and Privacy Protections Policy, which appears in the Firm's Manual of Policies and Procedures, and which was adopted by the Firm to protect the nonpublic personal information of the Investment Clients of the Firm and the shareholders of Thornburg Investment Trust. This section respecting confidentiality is substantially the same as the comparable section in the Thornburg Investment Trust Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, except that a specific reference is made to information respecting portfolio holdings of Investment Clients.
FAIR DEALING
Supervised Persons should endeavor to deal fairly with Investment Clients, service providers and competitors, and shall not seek unfair advantage through improper concealment, abuse of improperly acquired confidential information, misrepresentation of material facts when the other party is known by the Supervised Persons to rely justifiably on the individual to disclose those facts truthfully, or improper and unfair dealing.
BUSINESS GIFTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
The purpose of business entertainment and gifts in a commercial setting is to
create goodwill and sound working relationships, not to gain unfair advantage.
No gift or entertainment should ever be offered, given, provided or accepted by
any Supervised Person in connection with the Firm's business unless it (1) is
consistent with customary business practices, (2) is not excessive in value,
(3) cannot be construed as a bribe, payoff or kickback and (4) does not violate
any laws or regulations.
No Supervised Person shall provide to or accept from any client or prospective client, or person or entity that does or seeks to do business with or on behalf of the Firm, more than $100.00 worth of gifts per year. (this limit does not include nominal logo/promotional items). No Supervised Person may give or accept cash or cash equivalent gifts. Supervised Persons may provide to or accept from any client or prospective client, or
person or entity that does or seeks to do business with or on behalf of the Firm a business entertainment event such as a dinner, golf outing, theater or sporting event if the person or entity providing the entertainment is present and as long as the event is not extravagant or excessive so as to give the appearance of impropriety.
On a quarterly basis, within 30 days of quarter end, all Supervised Persons who are designated as Access Persons will be required to report all entertainment and gifts that were given and received within the previous quarter.
PROTECTION AND PROPER USE OF FIRM ASSETS
All Supervised Persons should endeavor to protect the assets of the Firm and its Investment Clients, and pursue their efficient investment in accordance with the Firm's business purposes. Any suspected incident of fraud or theft should be immediately reported for investigation as hereinafter described under the caption "Administration and Enforcement of the Code."
The obligation of Supervised Persons to protect the assets of the Firm includes its proprietary information. Proprietary information includes intellectual property such as trademarks and copyrights, as well as business, marketing and service plans, databases, records, salary information, unpublished financial data and reports. Unauthorized use or distribution of this information violates this Code.
INSIDER TRADING
All Supervised Persons should pay particular attention to potential violations of insider trading laws. Insider trading in both unethical and illegal and will be dealt with decisively if it occurs. SUPERVISED PERSONS ARE EXPECTED TO FAMILIARIZE THEMSELVES WITH THE POLICY ON INSIDER TRADING, ADOPTED BY THE FIRM. If they have questions about these guidelines, they should consult with the Firm's president, the Chief Compliance Officer, or the Firm's legal counsel.
COMMENT: ATTENTION IS DIRECTED TO THE FIRM'S POLICY ON INSIDER TRADING, WHICH APPEARS IN THE FIRM'S MANUAL OF POLICIES AND PROCEDURES.
ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE CODE
CERTIFICATION
Each newly hired Supervised Person of the Firm will be provided a copy of the Code. Each such individual must certify in writing within 30 days that they have received a copy of the Code, read and understand all provisions of the Code, and agree to comply with the applicable terms of the Code. The Firm will provide its Supervised Persons with any amendments to the Code and will require all such individuals to certify in writing that they have received, read and understand the amendments. Each year the Chief Compliance Officer will conduct an annual meeting with Supervised Persons to review the Code. Supervised Persons will annually certify that they have read, understood and
complied with the Code, that they have made all of the reports required by the Code and have not engaged in any prohibited conduct.
REPORTING VIOLATIONS
All Supervised Persons are required to promptly report any actual, apparent or suspected violations of the Code to the Chief Compliance Officer. If the Chief Compliance Officer or another compliance officer is not available the individual should report the violation to their immediate supervisor who is then responsible for reporting it to the Chief Compliance Officer. All reports will be treated confidentially to the extent permitted by law and investigated promptly.
GLOSSARY
"Access Person" means:
i. Any Trustee, director, officer or partner of any of the Companies.
ii. Any Supervised Person of any of the Companies, unless, in the Chief Compliance Officer's sole discretion, a particular Supervised Person does not have ongoing access to the Companies' headquarters or information systems.
iii. Individuals who are registered with the FINRA as an associated person of Thornburg Securities Corporation.
iv. Any director, officer, general partner or employee of any company in a Control relationship with any of the Companies who, in connection with their regular functions or duties, make, participate in, or obtain information regarding the purchase or sale of Securities by any Investment Client, or whose functions relate to the making of any recommendations with respect to those purchases or sales.
v. Any natural person who is in a Control relationship with any of the Companies and who obtains information concerning recommendations made to any Investment Client with regard to the purchase or sale of Securities by the Investment Client.
"CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER" means, for purposes of this Code, the Firm's chief compliance officer.
"FUND" means any series of Thornburg Investment Trust or any other Investment Company as to which the Firm is an investment adviser or sub-adviser.
"INVESTMENT CLIENT" means any person with whom the Firm has a contract to perform discretionary investment management services, including any series of an Investment Company.
"INVESTMENT COMPANY" means a company registered as such under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
"INVESTMENT COMPANY CLIENT" means any Investment Company (or series thereof ) as to which the Firm is an investment adviser or investment sub-adviser.
"POLICY ON PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS" means the Firm's written policy of that name, as revised from time to time. This Policy can be found in the Firm's Manual of Policies and Procedures.
"SUPERVISED PERSON" means any director, managing director, officer (or other person occupying a similar status or performing functions similar to any of those persons) and employees, and any other persons who provide advice on behalf of the Firm and who are subject to the Firm's supervision and control.
"TRUST" means Thornburg Investment Trust.
"tsc" means Thornburg Securities Corporation.
THORNBURG INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
THORNBURG INVESTMENT TRUST
THORNBURG SECURITIES CORPORATION
POLICY OF PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
MARCH 2010
POLICY OBJECTIVEs
Honesty and integrity are hallmarks of Thornburg Investment Management, Inc. ("TIM"), Thornburg Investment Trust (the "Trust") and Thornburg Securities Corporation ("TSC") (singularly a "Company" or together the "Companies"). Each of the Companies seeks the highest standards of ethics and conduct from its employees in all of their business relationships, and TIM hereby acknowledges its fiduciary obligations to its Investment Clients.
This Policy has been adopted by each of the Companies with the objectives of promoting honesty and integrity and preventing wrongdoing by the Companies' employees. In particular, this Policy seeks to prevent an employee of the Company, in connection with the direct or indirect purchase or sale by that employee of Securities held or proposed to be purchased or sold by any Investment Client, from:
(1) employing any device, scheme or artifice to defraud any Investment Client;
(2) making any untrue statement of material fact to any Investment Client or omitting to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements made to any Investment Client, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading;
(3) engaging in any act, practice or course of business that operated or would act as a fraud or deceit on any Investment Client; or
(4) engaging in any manipulative practice with respect to any Investment Client.
This Policy is intended to constitute the Companies' written code of ethics as required by Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940. In addition, this Policy together with a separately adopted Investment Adviser Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, is intended to comprise TIM's code of ethics described in Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Any report filed under this Policy will be deemed to satisfy both Rule 17j-1 and Rule 204A-1.
Please see the Glossary of Terms for definitions of terms used in this Policy.
PRIOR AUTHORIZATION FOR SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
Any transaction for which prior authorization is received must be completed within 24 hours.
Except for those transactions listed below under "Transactions that Do Not Require Prior Authorization," Access Persons must obtain prior authorization for all Securities transactions. Access Persons should submit each request for prior authorization through the Compliance Science system. The following types of transactions will be directed by the Compliance Science system to a Designated Compliance Officer for review:
o Purchases of Securities distributed in an Initial Public Offering or Limited Offering.
o Transactions involving Supervised Persons on the Prohibited List or Securities on the Prohibited List. See "Prohibited List" below.
o Transactions involving Securities on the then-current Holdings List, unless the issuer of the Security has a market capitalization greater than $2 billion and the proposed transaction involves less than $100,000 of the issuer's Securities. See "Holdings List" below.
The foregoing list is not exclusive, and from time to time other types of transactions may be rejected by the Compliance Science system.
The foregoing prior authorization requirements do not apply to transactions by an Independent Trustee.
TRANSACTIONS THAT DO NOT REQUIRE PRIOR AUTHORIZATION
The following Securities transactions are exempt from the prior authorization requirements described above:
o Purchases or sales effected in any account over which the Access Person has no direct or indirect influence or control.
o Purchases or sales for which the Access Person does not directly or indirectly have Beneficial Ownership.
o Purchases or sales which are non-volitional on the part of the Access Person.
o Purchases or sales through an Automatic Investment Plan.
o 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 issuers, and sales of such rights so acquired.
o Purchases or sales of shares of any investment company registered as such under the Investment Company Act, including but not limited to, open-end funds, closed-end funds, unit investment trusts, exchange-traded funds, and money market mutual funds.
o Purchases or sales (other than Initial Public Offerings and Limited Offerings) of Securities for any Private Fund managed by TIM, for which the Access Person is deemed to have investment control.
HOLDINGS LIST
The Compliance Department will maintain a list of all Securities which, within the most recent 15 days, have been held by Thornburg on behalf of its Investment Clients (the "Holdings List"). Access Persons are prohibited from purchasing any Security which is on the then-current Holdings List, or which the Access Person knows is being considered for purchase or sale by an Investment Client, unless the issuer of the Security has a market capitalization greater than $2 billion and the proposed transaction involves less than $100,000 of the issuer's Securities.
A Designated Compliance Officer will periodically review a sample of purchases or sales by an Access Person of a Security that appears on the then-current Holdings List to seek to confirm that the Access Person's trading activity is consistent with the foregoing.
PROHIBITED LIST
The Chief Compliance Officer, or a Compliance Officer of his/her designation, will maintain a Prohibited List. A Security will be placed on this list when it is known by the Compliance Department that a Supervised Person possesses material nonpublic information about or affecting the Security or its issuer. A Supervised Person will be placed on this list when it is known by the Compliance Department that such Supervised Person may possess material nonpublic information about or affecting one or more Securities or their issuers.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCESS PERSONS
ACCESS PERSONS
Except as provided below for Independent Trustees, the Companies require all Access Persons to file the following reports through the Compliance Science system:
o a STATEMENT OF OUTSIDE BROKERAGE ACTIVITY no later than 10 days after
being hired or designated as an Access Person.
o an INITIAL HOLDINGS REPORT no later than 10 days after being hired or
designated as an Access Person.
o an ANNUAL HOLDINGS REPORT by January 30(th) each year for the
previous twelve months beginning January 1(st) and ending December
31(st).
o a Quarterly Transactions Report no later than 30 days after the end of each calendar quarter.
See "Reporting of Personal Securities Ownership" below for more detail about these reports.
Additionally, the Companies require all Access Persons to notify each firm that maintains an outside brokerage account for them, or for a Family Member, of their association with the Companies and the Companies' requirement to receive duplicate copies of confirmations and periodic statements.
TRUSTEES OF THE TRUST
An Independent Trustee (who would be required to file a report solely by reason
of being a trustee of the Trust) need not make: (i) an Initial Holdings Report;
(ii) an Annual Holdings Report; or (iii) a Quarterly Transaction Report; except
that the Trustee will need to file a Quarterly Transaction Report if the
Trustee knew or in the ordinary course of his duties as a Trustee should have
known that, during the 15-day period immediately before or after the Trustee's
transaction in a Security, the Trust purchased or sold the Security, or the
Trust or TIM considered purchasing or selling the Security.
REPORTING OF PERSONAL SECURITIES OWNERSHIP
STATEMENT OF OUTSIDE BROKERAGE ACTIVITY
This statement must be filed through the Compliance Science system no later
than 10 days after being hired or designated as an Access Person. On this
statement such individuals must disclose each brokerage account in which they
or a Family Member have any Beneficial Ownership, including the account number
for each such account and the identity of the firm where the account is
maintained. It is the responsibility of each such individual to notify each
firm through which they or a Family Member maintains an outside brokerage
account of their affiliation with the Companies. The Compliance Department must
be notified in writing if new outside brokerage accounts are opened at any time
after the Access Person has filed this STATEMENT OF OUTSIDE BROKERAGE
ACTIVITY.
Once this STATEMENT OF OUTSIDE BROKERAGE ACTIVITY has been submitted by the Access Person through the Compliance Science system, the Compliance Department will send a request to each firm which maintains an outside brokerage account for that Access Person to receive duplicate confirmation and periodic statements. It is the Access Person's responsibility to ensure that the Compliance Department's request is honored.
INITIAL AND ANNUAL HOLDINGS REPORTS
The INITIAL HOLDINGS REPORT must be filed by each Access Person through the Compliance Science system no later 10 days after the individual is hired or designated as an Access Person. Information contained in the report must be current as of a date not more than 45
days prior to the date the individual becomes an Access Person.
The ANNUAL HOLDINGS REPORT must be filed by each Access Person by January 30(th) each year. The information contained in the report must be from January 1(st) through December 31(st) of the previous year.
The INITIAL HOLDINGS REPORT and Annual Holdings Report must include the following information for each Security in which the Access Person or Family Member has any direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership:
o The title and type of each Security, and as applicable the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, number of shares, and principal amount.
o The name of each broker, dealer, bank, or other financial institution maintaining a brokerage or other account for the Access Person or Family Member and the account number assigned to it.
o The date the report is filed.
In lieu of including the above information on these reports, an Access Person or his brokerage firm may submit duplicate trade confirmations or brokerage account statements, provided that such confirmations or statements contain information equivalent to what would otherwise be included in these reports. You must ensure that all transactions placed within the designated period appear on the report or in the duplicate confirmations or statements.
QUARTERLY TRANSACTIONS REPORTS
o A QUARTERLY TRANSACTION REPORT must be filed through the Compliance Science system no later than 30 days after the end of each calendar quarter.
The QUARTERLY TRANSACTION REPORT must include the following information for each Security in which the Access Person or Family Member has any direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership:
o The date of each transaction, the title, and as applicable the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, interest rate and maturity date, the number of shares, and the principal amount.
o The nature of the transaction that is, a purchase, sale or other type of acquisition or disposition of the Security. o The price at which the transaction was effected.
o The name of each broker, dealer, bank, or other financial institution maintaining a brokerage or other account for the Access Person or Family Member and the account number assigned to it.
o The date the report is filed.
In lieu of including the above information on this report, the Access Person or his brokerage firm may submit duplicate trade confirmations or brokerage account statements, provided that such confirmations or statements contain information equivalent to what would otherwise be included in the report. You must ensure that all transactions placed within the designated period appear on the report or in the duplicate confirmations or statements.
REPORTING EXEMPTIONS
The Companies exempt the following holdings and transactions from the reporting requirements:
o Transactions effected in any account over which the Access Person has no direct or indirect influence or control.
o Transactions effected pursuant to an Automatic Investment Plan.
o Holdings and transactions of shares of any registered open-end mutual fund (including money market mutual funds), except for shares of (i) a Thornburg Fund or (ii) a mutual fund for which Thornburg acts as sub-advisor. Note: shares of all other types of investment companies, including but not limited to closed-end investment companies, unit investment trusts, or exchange-traded funds, are subject to the reporting requirements in this Policy.
ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT OF THE POLICY
The Chief Compliance Officer will designate a compliance officer to serve as the Filing and Review Officer. The Filing and Review Officer will be responsible for:
o Maintaining current and previous lists of all Access Persons.
o Maintaining a record of the Filing and Review Officers in such a manner that the individuals serving in that capacity can be identified for any period of time.
o Maintaining the Initial Holdings Reports, Annual Holdings Reports, Quarterly Transactions Reports and Statements of Outside Brokerage Activity that are filed, including all backup documentation.
o Maintaining a schedule of report filing dates. This schedule will reflect any case in which a report was filed late, the date any reminders were sent out and any sanctions imposed. If a report is not filed within the required time the Filing and Review Officer will advise the Chief Compliance Officer.
o Maintaining copies of the current and previous Holdings Lists.
o Maintaining evidence of any prior approval requests submitted through the Compliance Science system.
o Maintaining records of waivers, including backup documentation of any waivers issued.
o Monitoring personal Securities transactions and trading patterns through the review of reports filed and review of the duplicate confirmations and periodic account statements received. The Chief Compliance Officer will review the personal Securities transactions of the Filing and Review Officer.
o Reporting apparent violations to the Chief Compliance Officer.
o Maintaining a record of any violation, written violation reports and record of any action taken as a result of the violation.
o Requesting duplicate confirmations and periodic statements for all outside brokerage accounts.
o Maintaining records of requests for duplicate brokerage confirmations and account statements, and files of duplicate brokerage confirmation and account statements received.
Certain documents may be maintained by the Filing and Review Officer within the Compliance Science system. See "Books and Records," below for the periods of time records are to be retained.
The Filing and Review Officer will seek to protect the confidentiality of those records containing personal information about an Access Member or Family Member, including information about the investment holdings or investment trading activity of an Access Person or Family Member. Such information will only be shared with members of the compliance department, outside counsel, securities regulators and other persons who, in the judgment of the Filing and Review Officer or the Chief Compliance Officer, have a legitimate need to know such information, or with persons to whom the Companies are under a legal obligation to disclose such information.
CERTIFICATION
Each Supervised Person of the Companies will be provided a copy of this Policy and must certify in writing no later than 30 days after receipt of the Policy, that they have received a copy of this Policy, read and understand all provisions of this Policy, and agree to comply with the applicable terms of this Policy. The Companies will provide any amendments to the Policy and will require all Supervised Persons to certify in writing that they have received, read and understand the amendments. Each year the Chief Compliance Officer or compliance officer designated by the Chief Compliance Officer
will conduct an annual meeting with all Supervised Persons of TIM and TSC to review the Policy and will require all Supervised Persons to annually certify that they have read, understood and complied with the Policy, that they have made all of the reports required by the Policy and have not engaged in any prohibited conduct.
REPORTING VIOLATIONS
All Supervised Persons are required to promptly report any actual, apparent or suspected violations of the Policy to the Chief Compliance Officer. If the Chief Compliance Officer or another compliance officer is not available the individual should report the violation to their immediate supervisor who is then responsible for reporting it to the Chief Compliance Officer. All reports will be treated confidentially to the extent permitted by law and investigated promptly.
SANCTIONS
Upon discovering a violation of this Policy, each Company may impose such sanctions as it deems appropriate, including, but not limited to, a letter of censure, fine, suspension or termination of the violator's employment.
DISCLOSURE
TIM will disclose in its ADV Part II if TIM, or its related persons (as defined in the Instructions to Form ADV), may buy or sell for themselves securities that TIM has also recommended to its Investment Clients, including restrictions, internal procedures, or disclosures that are used by TIM to address any conflicts of interest in these transactions.
REPORTING TO COMPANY PRESIDENTS, THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES, AND INVESTMENT COMPANIES
The Chief Compliance Officer shall provide a written report to the Trustees of Thornburg Investment Trust at least annually. The report shall (i) describe any significant issues arising under this Policy since the last report, including but not limited to, any material violations of this Policy and any sanctions imposed, and (ii) certify that the Trust, TIM, and TSC have each adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent violations of this Policy.
The Chief Compliance Officer shall provide a written report to investment companies other than the Trust for which TIM acts as investment adviser or sub-adviser, at least annually. The report shall (i) describe any significant issues arising under this Policy since the last report, including but not limited to, any material violations of this Policy and any sanctions imposed, and (ii) certify that TIM has adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent violations of this Policy.
ANNUAL REVIEW
Pursuant to the review requirements of Rule 206(4)-7 under the Advisers Act and Rule 38a-1 under the Investment Company Act, the Chief Compliance Officer shall conduct a periodic review, no less often than annually, of the adequacy of the Policy and the effectiveness of its implementation.
RECORDKEEPING
In its books and records (which may include maintenance of records through the Compliance Science system) the Compliance Department will:
o Retain a copy of each version of this Policy that has been in effect at any given time.
o Retain a record of any violations of this Policy, written violation reports and any action taken as a result of the violation.
o Maintain Holdings and Transaction Reports and Statements of Outside Brokerage Activity that are filed, including backup documentation.
o Maintain copies of duplicate brokerage confirmations and account statements received and requests made.
o Maintain Request for Prior Clearance of Security Transactions forms, and any backup documentation, and waivers granted.
o Maintain copies of Holdings Lists.
o Maintain copies of Prohibited Lists
o Maintain lists of Access Persons and Registered Representatives.
o Maintain schedule of report filing dates, reminders and sanctions imposed.
o Maintain copies of reports to the Chief Compliance Officer, the Trust, and the President.
o Maintain a record of persons designated as Filing and Review Officers.
o Maintain sign in sheet and material distributed at the annual meeting at which this Policy is reviewed with all Supervised Persons.
These items will be maintained for a total period of five years. For the first two years these items will be stored in a designated area at the Companies' principal place of business; after the two year period they may be moved and stored offsite.
In its books and records, the Human Resources Department will:
o Maintain a record of all employee certifications/acknowledgements of receipt of this Policy and any amendments hereto.
This item will be maintained for five years after the individual ceases to be a Supervised Person of the Companies.
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
"ACCESS PERSON" means:
i. Any Trustee, director, officer or partner of any of the Companies.
ii. Any Supervised Person of any of the Companies, unless, in the Chief Compliance Officer's sole discretion, a particular Supervised Person does not have ongoing access to the Companies' headquarters or information systems.
iii. Individuals who are registered with the FINRA as an associated person of Thornburg Securities Corporation.
iv. Any director, officer, general partner or employee of any company in a Control relationship with any of the Companies who, in connection with their regular functions or duties, make, participate in, or obtain information regarding the purchase or sale of Securities by any Investment Client, or whose functions relate to the making of any recommendations with respect to those purchases or sales.
v. Any natural person who is in a Control relationship with any of the Companies and who obtains information concerning recommendations made to any Investment Client with regard to the purchase or sale of Securities by the Investment Client.
"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.
"BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP" shall be interpreted in accordance with Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
"CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER" means the chief compliance officer for TIM.
"COMPLIANCE DEPARTMENT" means TIM's compliance department.
"CONTROL" shall be interpreted in accordance with Section 2(a)(9) of the Investment
Company Act of 1940.
"FAMILY MEMBER" means the members of an Access Person's immediate family (a 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 shall include adoptive relationships) sharing the same household; provided, however, that the presumption of such beneficial ownership by a Family Member may be rebutted by an Access Person.
"INDEPENDENT TRUSTEE" means a Trustee who is not an "interested person" of the Trust within the meaning of Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act of 1940.
"INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING" means an offering of securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933, the issuer of which, immediately before the registration, was not subject to the reporting requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
"INVESTMENT CLIENT" means (1) any investment company registered as such under the Investment Company Act of 1940 or series thereof or any component of such series for which TIM is an investment adviser or investment sub-adviser; or (2) any private accounts owned by any person for whom TIM is an investment adviser or investment sub-adviser; (3) any customer of TSC.
"LIMITED OFFERING" means an offering exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 pursuant to Section 4(2) or Section 4(6) thereof, or pursuant to Rule 504, Rule 505 or Rule 506 adopted thereunder.
"PRIVATE FUND" means an investment vehicle the securities of which are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933 and which is excluded from the definition of an "investment company" under Section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the Investment Company Act of 1940.
"PURCHASE OR SALE OF A SECURITY" includes, among other things, the writing of an option to purchase or sell a Security.
"SECURITY" OR "SECURITIES" means any note, stock, treasury stock, security future, 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 or to purchase, any of the foregoing. The term "Security" or "Securities" shall not include direct obligations of the U.S. Government, bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper, high quality short-term debt instruments (including repurchase agreements), and shares issued by "money market" mutual funds.
"SUPERVISED PERSON" means any director, managing director, officer (or other person occupying a similar status or performing functions similar to any of those persons) or employee of any of the Companies, and any other persons who provide advice on behalf of any of the Companies relating to the purchase or sale of Securities by an Investment Client and who are subject to any of the Companies' supervision and control.
"THORNBURG FUND" means any series of Thornburg Investment Trust.
"TRUST" means Thornburg Investment Trust.
"TRUSTEE" means a Trustee of the Trust