As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 1, 2007
Securities Act File No. 33-20827
Investment Company Act File No. 811-5518
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549
FORM N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 | x | |
Pre-Effective Amendment No. |
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Post-Effective Amendment No. 112 |
x | |
and | ||
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 | x | |
Amendment No. 114 |
x |
THE RBB FUND, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
Bellevue Park Corporate Center
103 Bellevue Parkway
Wilmington, DE 19809
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
Registrants Telephone Number: (302) 791-1112
Copies to:
JAMES SHAW PFPC Inc. 103 Bellevue Parkway Wilmington, DE 19809 (Name and Address of Agent for Service) |
MICHAEL P. MALLOY, ESQUIRE Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP One Logan Square 18th & Cherry Streets Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996 |
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It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box)
¨ | immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b) |
¨ | on pursuant to paragraph (b) |
¨ | 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) |
¨ | on pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) |
x | 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) |
¨ | on pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485 |
If appropriate, check the following box:
¨ | This post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment. |
Title of Securities Being Registered .Shares of Common Stock
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION
PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS
DATED JUNE 1, 2007
THE INFORMATION IN THIS PROSPECTUS IS NOT COMPLETE AND MAY BE CHANGED. WE MAY NOT SELL THESE SECURITIES UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION IS EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL THESE SECURITIES AND IT IS NOT SOLICITING AN OFFER TO BUY THESE SECURITIES IN ANY STATE WHERE THE OFFER OR SALE IS NOT PERMITTED.
FREE MARKET U.S. EQUITY FUND
FREE MARKET INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
FREE MARKET FIXED INCOME FUND
of
T HE RBB F UND , I NC .
PROSPECTUS
August __, 2007
Investment Adviser:
ABUNDANCE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
3700 Park 42 Drive
Suite 105A
Cincinnati, Ohio 45241
The securities described in this Prospectus have been registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC). The SEC, however, has not judged these securities for their investment merit and has not determined the accuracy or adequacy of this Prospectus. Anyone who tells you otherwise is committing a criminal offense.
INTRODUCTION | 1 | |
DESCRIPTION OF THE FREE MARKET U.S. EQUITY FUND | 2 | |
2 | ||
2 | ||
4 | ||
4 | ||
DESCRIPTION OF THE FREE MARKET INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND | 7 | |
7 | ||
7 | ||
9 | ||
10 | ||
DESCRIPTION OF THE FREE MARKET FIXED INCOME FUND | 13 | |
13 | ||
13 | ||
15 | ||
16 | ||
MORE ABOUT EACH FUNDS INVESTMENTS AND RISKS | 18 | |
18 | ||
20 | ||
22 | ||
MANAGEMENT OF THE FUNDS | 23 | |
23 | ||
23 | ||
23 | ||
24 | ||
OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS | 25 | |
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION | 26 | |
26 | ||
26 | ||
30 | ||
30 | ||
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ABUNDANCE TECHNOLOGIES FAMILY OF FUNDS | 34 |
i
This Prospectus is intended to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether to invest in the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund and Free Market Fixed Income Fund (the Funds), three series of The RBB Fund, Inc. (the Company).
Abundance Technologies, Inc. (Abundance or the Adviser) provides investment advisory services to the Funds. This Prospectus and the Statement of Additional Information (SAI) incorporated herein relate solely to the Funds.
By investing in a Fund, an investor can invest in a managed portfolio of investment companies to meet a specified investment strategy. The Adviser believes that allocating each Funds assets among other investment companies will capture the returns of various market segments and provide diversification to the Fund. Each Fund may invest directly in individual securities. However, the Adviser will not invest directly in individual securities without the prior approval of the Board of Directors of the Company, except as described in this Prospectus.
1
DESCRIPTION OF THE FREE MARKET U.S. EQUITY FUND
The Free Market U.S. Equity Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. The Funds investment goal is not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval by the Companys Board of Directors upon prior written notice to shareholders.
Principal Investment Strategies
Investments : The Fund pursues its investment goal by investing under normal circumstances at least 80% of its net assets in shares of registered, open-end investment companies and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that emphasize investments in equity securities, such as common stocks, preferred stocks or securities convertible into stocks, of U.S. companies. The Fund will diversify its investments by investing primarily in investment companies and ETFs (collectively, investment companies) focusing on different segments of the equity markets, including large (large-cap), small (small-cap) and micro-capitalization (micro-cap) equity securities that the Adviser believes offer the prospect of long-term capital appreciation.
The Adviser uses target ranges in allocating the Funds assets among various investment company asset classes. The Adviser expects that the Funds investments will be within plus or minus 5% of the following target ranges:
Asset Class |
Target | |
U.S. Large Cap Value |
30% | |
U.S. Small Cap Value |
25% | |
U.S. Large Company |
15% | |
U.S. Small Cap |
15% | |
U.S. Micro Cap |
15% |
Target allocations represent the Funds current target for investments in a particular asset class. Actual allocations may differ from the target due to market fluctuations and other factors. The Adviser may change these target allocations and ranges from time to time without shareholder approval.
The Fund invests in investment companies that are not affiliated with it. These investment companies may be within the same fund complex and/or advised by the same investment adviser.
Strategies: The Adviser focuses on the returns of investment companies within each of the target asset classes while keeping trading costs to a minimum. Under normal market conditions, the Adviser expects substantially all of the Funds net assets to be invested in the securities of investment companies that invest in the types of securities in each asset class described below, with less than 2% of its net assets invested in cash or money market instruments.
U.S. Value Asset Classes : The underlying investment companies comprising the U.S. large cap value asset class and U.S. small cap value asset class will invest in a broad and diverse group of readily marketable common stocks and other equity securities of U.S. companies which the underlying investment adviser(s) determine to be value stocks at the time of purchase. An issuers securities are considered value stocks primarily because they have a high book value in relation to their market value (a book to market ratio). In assessing value, the underlying investment adviser(s) may consider additional factors, such as price to cash flow or price to earnings ratios, as well as economic conditions and developments in the issuers industry. The criteria used for assessing value are subject to change from time to time.
2
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U.S. Large Cap Value : The underlying investment companies comprising the large cap value asset class generally will purchase a broad and diverse group of common stocks and other equity securities of large cap companies that the underlying investment adviser(s) determine to be value stocks. The underlying investment adviser(s) measure company size primarily based on market capitalization. Large cap companies generally are those companies with a market capitalization of $2 billion or greater. This dollar amount will change from time to time due to market conditions. |
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U.S. Small Cap Value : The underlying investment companies investing in the small cap value asset class generally will purchase a broad and diverse group of common stocks and other equity securities of small cap companies that the underlying investment adviser(s) determine to be value stocks. The underlying investment adviser(s) measure company size primarily based on market capitalization. Small cap companies generally are those companies with a market capitalization of $2 billion or less. This dollar amount will change from time to time due to market conditions. |
U.S. Large Company Asset Class : The underlying investment companies comprising the U.S. large company asset class generally will purchase all of the stocks that comprise the S&P 500 ® Index in approximately the proportions they are represented in the S&P 500 ® Index. The S&P 500 ® Index is comprised of a broad and diverse group of stocks. Generally, these are the U.S. stocks with the largest market capitalizations and, as a group, they represent approximately 70% of the total market capitalization of all publicly traded U.S. stocks. For purposes of this asset class, the underlying investment adviser(s) consider the stocks that comprise the S&P 500 ® Index to be those of large companies.
U.S. Small Cap Asset Class : The underlying investment companies comprising the small cap asset class generally will purchase a broad and diverse group of common stocks and other equity securities of small cap companies. The underlying investment adviser(s) measure company size primarily based on market capitalization. Small cap companies are generally those with a market capitalization of $2 billion or less. This dollar amount will change from time to time due to market conditions. There may be some overlap in the companies in which the U.S. small cap asset class and the U.S. micro cap asset class invest.
U.S. Micro Cap Asset Class : The underlying investment companies comprising the micro cap asset class generally will purchase a broad and diverse group of common stocks and other equity securities of micro cap companies. The underlying investment adviser(s) measure company size primarily based on market capitalization. Micro cap companies are generally those companies with a market capitalization of $1 billion or less. This dollar amount will change from time to time due to market conditions. There may be some overlap in the companies in which the U.S. micro cap asset class and the U.S. small cap asset class invest.
The Fund will notify shareholders in writing at least 60 days prior to any change in its policy of investing under normal circumstances at least 80% of its net assets in shares of registered, open-end investment companies that emphasize investments in U.S. equity securities.
The Fund reserves the right to hold up to 100% of its assets as a temporary defensive measure in cash and money market instruments such as U.S. Government securities, bank obligations and commercial paper. To the extent the Fund employs a temporary defensive measure, the Fund may not achieve its investment goal.
3
Investing in any mutual fund involves risks, including the risk that you may receive little or no return on your investment, the risk that the Fund could underperform other possible investments, and the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Before you invest in the Fund, you should carefully evaluate the risks. You could lose money on your investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves the same investment risks as those of the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests. These risks may adversely affect the Funds net asset value (NAV) and investment performance. The Fund is subject to the following principal risks:
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Stocks of large cap, small cap or micro cap companies in which the Funds underlying investment companies invest or in which the Fund invests directly may temporarily fall out of favor with investors or may be more volatile than the rest of the U.S. market as a whole. |
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The smaller the capitalization of a company, generally the less liquid its stock and the more volatile its price. Companies with smaller market capitalizations also tend to have unproven track records and are more likely to fail than companies with larger market capitalizations. |
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Although the Fund will invest in other investment companies that invest in equity securities believed to be undervalued, there is no guarantee that the prices of these securities will not move even lower. |
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Companies in which the Funds underlying investment companies invest may suffer unexpected losses or lower than expected earnings or their securities may become difficult or impossible to sell at the time and for the price that the underlying investment adviser(s) would like. |
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The Advisers judgment about the attractiveness or potential appreciation of a particular underlying investment company security could prove to be wrong or the Fund could miss out on an investment opportunity because the assets necessary to take advantage of such opportunity are tied up in less advantageous investments. |
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Because under normal circumstances the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in shares of registered investment companies that emphasize investments in U.S. equity securities, the NAV of the Fund will change with changes in the share prices of the investment companies in which the Fund invests. |
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There is a risk that large capitalization stocks may not perform as well as other asset classes or the U.S. stock market as a whole. In the past, large capitalization stocks have gone through cycles of doing better or worse than the stock market in general. |
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There is a risk that the Fund, which is passively managed, may not perform as well as funds with more active methods of investment management, such as selecting securities based on economic, financial, and market analysis. |
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The performance of the Fund will depend on how successfully the investment adviser(s) to the underlying investment companies pursue their investment strategies. |
The bar chart and performance table have been omitted because the Fund has not commenced operations as of the date of this Prospectus. The Fund intends to evaluate its performance as compared to that of a broad-based index and a Composite Index. The broad-based index will be the Russell 2500 ® Index. The Composite Index will be comprised of the S&P 500 ® Index, Russell 1000 ® Value Index, Russell 2000 ® Index and Russell 2000 ® Value Index, each weighted 25%, 25%, 25% and 25%, respectively. The following is a description of each index:
4
The Russell 2500 ® Index consists of the small to mid-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe, commonly referred to as smid cap. The Russell 2500 ® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for the small to mid-cap segment and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the Index. The Russell 2500 ® Index includes the smallest 2,500 securities in the Russell 3000 ® Index. The Russell 3000 ® Index is made up of 3,000 of the biggest U.S. stocks.
The S&P 500 ® Index consists of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity and industry grouping, among other factors. The S&P 500 ® Index is designed to be a leading indicator of U.S. equities and is meant to reflect the risk/return characteristics of the large-cap universe. The S&P 500 ® Index is a market-value weighted index and each stocks weight in the index is proportionate to its market value.
The Russell 1000 ® Value Index consists of the large-cap value segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell 1000 ® Value Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer of the large-cap value market.
The Russell 2000 ® Index consists of the small-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell 2000 ® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased small-cap barometer and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the Index. The Russell 2000 ® Index includes the smallest 2000 securities in the Russell 3000 ® Index.
The Russell 2000 ® Value Index consists of the small-cap value segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell 2000 ® Value Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer of the small-cap value market.
Expenses and Fees
As a shareholder, you pay certain fees and expenses. The table below describes the estimated fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund (Shares).
Annual Fund Operating Expenses*
(Expenses that are deducted from Fund assets)
Management Fees |
0.50 | % | |
Distribution (12b-1) and/or Service Fees |
None | ||
Other Expenses 1 |
0.29 | % | |
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses 2 |
0.33 | % | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses 3 |
1.12 | % | |
* | Shareholders requesting redemption by wire are charged a transaction fee of $7.50 |
1 |
Other expenses for the Fund are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year. Other expenses include audit, administration, custody, legal, registration, transfer agency, and miscellaneous other charges. |
2 |
Acquired Fund means any investment company in which the Fund expects to invest during the current fiscal year. Net Operating Expenses will not correlate to the Funds ratio of expenses to average net assets, which reflects the operating expenses of the Fund and does not include Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. The Fund calculates the Acquired Funds expenses using the net expense ratios reported in the Acquired Funds most recent shareholder reports. |
3 |
The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses to 1.13% of the Funds average daily net assets through December 31, 2007. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2007. |
5
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 the period. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year, that the operating expenses of the Fund remain the same, and that you reinvest all dividends and distributions. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions, your costs would be:
1 Year |
3 Years |
|
$ 114 |
$ 356 |
6
The Free Market International Equity Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation. The Funds investment goal is not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval by the Companys Board of Directors upon prior written notice to shareholders.
Principal Investment Strategies
Investments : The Fund will pursue its investment goal by investing under normal circumstances at least 80% of its net assets in shares of registered, open-end investment companies and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that emphasize investments in equity securities, such as common stocks, preferred stocks or securities convertible into stocks of foreign companies. The Fund will diversify its investments by investing primarily in investment companies and ETFs (collectively, investment companies) that focus on different segments of the foreign equity markets, including emerging markets, with little or no focus on domestic equity markets.
The Adviser uses target ranges in allocating the Funds assets among various investment company asset classes. The Adviser expects that the Funds investments will be within plus or minus 5% of the following target ranges:
Asset Class |
Target | ||
International Small Cap Value |
40 | % | |
International Large Cap Value |
30 | % | |
International Small Company International Large Cap |
10
5 |
%
% |
|
Emerging Markets |
5.25 | % | |
Emerging Markets Value |
4.875 | % | |
Emerging Markets Small Cap |
4.875 | % |
Target allocations represent the Funds current target for investments in a particular asset class. Actual allocations may differ from the target due to market fluctuations and other factors. The Adviser may change these target allocations and ranges from time to time without shareholder approval.
The Fund invests in investment companies that are not affiliated with it. These investment companies may be within the same fund complex and/or advised by the same investment adviser.
Strategies: The Adviser focuses on the returns of the investment companies within each of the target asset classes while keeping trading costs to a minimum. Under normal market conditions, the Adviser expects substantially all of the Funds net assets to be invested in the securities of investment companies that invest in the types of securities in each asset class described below, with less than 5% of its net assets invested in cash or money market instruments.
International Small Cap Value Asset Class: The underlying investment companies comprising the international small cap value asset class generally will purchase the stocks and other equity securities of small foreign companies that the underlying investment adviser(s) determine to be value stocks at the time of purchase. An issuers securities are considered value stocks primarily because they have a high book to market ratio. In assessing value, the underlying investment adviser(s) may consider additional factors such as price to cash flow or price to earnings ratios, as well as economic conditions and developments in the issuers industry. The criteria used for measuring value are subject to change from time to time.
7
The underlying investment companies intend to purchase the stocks and other equity securities of small companies in foreign countries with developed markets. The underlying investment adviser(s) measure company size primarily based on market capitalization. Small foreign companies are generally those companies with a market capitalization below $4.2 billion. This threshold will vary by country or region, and the dollar amount will change from to time due to market conditions. Currently, the median market capitalization of companies in the international small cap value asset class is approximately $270 million.
The underlying investment companies comprising the international small cap value asset class may invest in stocks and other equity securities of issuers located in the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom. The investment adviser(s) of the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests may also invest from time to time in securities of issuers located in other developed countries, at their discretion.
International Large Cap Value Asset Class: The underlying investment companies comprising the international large cap value asset class generally will purchase the stocks and other equity securities of large foreign companies that the underlying investment adviser(s) determine to be value stocks at the time of purchase. An issuers securities are considered value stocks primarily because they have a high book to market ratio. In assessing value, the underlying investment adviser(s) may consider additional factors such as price to cash flow or price to earnings ratios as well as economic conditions and developments in the issuers industry. The criteria used for assessing value are subject to change from time to time.
The underlying investment companies intend to purchase the stocks of large companies in countries with developed markets. The underlying investment adviser(s) determine company size primarily based on market capitalization. Large foreign companies generally are those companies with a market capitalization of at least $700 million. This threshold will vary by country or region, and the dollar amount will change from time to time due to market conditions. Currently, the median market capitalization of companies in the international large cap value asset class is approximately $5.2 billion.
The underlying investment companies comprising the international large cap value asset class may invest in stocks and other equity securities of issuers located in the same foreign countries as described above under International Small Cap Value Asset Class. The investment adviser(s) of the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests may also invest from time to time in securities of issuers located in other developed countries, at their discretion.
International Small Company Asset Class: The underlying investment companies comprising the international small company asset class generally will purchase the stocks and other equity securities of small companies in foreign countries with developed markets. The underlying investment adviser(s) measure company size primarily based on market capitalization. Small foreign companies generally are those companies with a market capitalization below $4.2 billion. This threshold will vary by country or region, and the dollar amount will change from time to time due to market conditions. Currently, the median market capitalization of companies in the international small company asset class is approximately $270 million.
The underlying investment companies comprising the international small company asset class may invest in stocks and other equity securities of issuers located in the same foreign countries as described above under International Small Cap Value Asset Class. The investment adviser(s) of the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests may also invest from time to time in securities of issuers located in other developed countries, at their discretion.
8
International Large Cap Asset Class: The underlying investment companies comprising the international large cap asset class generally will purchase the stocks and other equity securities of large companies in foreign countries. The underlying investment adviser(s) determine company size primarily based on market capitalization. Large companies generally are considered to be those companies with a market capitalization of at least $700 million. This threshold will vary by country or region, and the dollar amount will change from time to time due to market conditions. Currently, the median market capitalization of companies in the international large cap asset class is approximately $5.2 billion.
The underlying investment companies comprising the international large cap asset class may invest in stocks and other equity securities of issuers located in the same foreign countries as described above under International Small Cap Value Asset Class. The investment adviser(s) of the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests may also invest from time to time in securities of issuers located in other developed countries, at their discretion.
Emerging Markets Asset Class, Emerging Markets Value Asset Class, and Emerging Markets Small Cap Asset Class (collectively, the Emerging Markets Asset Classes): Underlying investment companies comprising each Emerging Markets Asset Class generally will purchase stocks and other equity securities of companies located in the emerging market countries identified below. The underlying investment companies investing in securities of the emerging markets asset class and the emerging markets small cap asset class will seek broad market coverage by purchasing the equity securities of larger and smaller companies, respectively, within each country. The underlying investment adviser(s) determine company size primarily based on market capitalization. Companies in the Emerging Markets Asset Classes generally are those companies with a market capitalization of between $3.5 billion and $588 million. These dollar amounts will change from time to time due to market conditions.
The underlying investment companies in the emerging markets value asset class generally will purchase emerging market equity securities that are deemed by the underlying investment adviser(s) to be value stocks at the time of purchase. An issuers securities are considered value stocks primarily because they have a high book to market ratio. In assessing value, the underlying investment advisers may consider additional factors, such as price to cash flow or price to earnings ratios, as well as economic conditions and developments in the issuers industry. The criteria used for assessing value are subject to change from time to time.
The underlying investment companies comprising the Emerging Markets Asset Classes may invest in the stocks and other equity securities of issuers located in the following foreign countries: Brazil, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Israel, Malaysia, Mexico, Philippines, Poland, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Turkey. The investment adviser(s) of the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests may also invest from time to time in securities of issuers located in the other emerging market countries, at their discretion.
The Fund will notify shareholders in writing at least 60 days prior to any change in its policy of investing at least 80% of its net assets in shares of investment companies that emphasize investments in equity securities of foreign companies.
The Fund reserves the right to hold up to 100% of its assets as a temporary defensive measure in cash and money market instruments such as U.S. Government securities, bank obligations and commercial paper. To the extent the Fund employs a temporary defensive measure, the Fund may not achieve its investment goal.
Investing in any mutual fund involves risks, including the risk that you may receive little or no return on your investment, the risk that the Fund could underperform other possible investments, and the
9
risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Before you invest in the Fund, you should carefully evaluate the risks. You could lose money on your investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves the same investment risks as those of the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests. These risks could adversely affect the Funds NAV and investment performance. The Fund is subject to the following principal risks:
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The value of particular foreign equity securities or stock markets which the Funds underlying investment companies may purchase or on which the securities they may purchase are traded may decline in value. |
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Stocks of large cap or small cap foreign companies in which the Funds underlying investment companies may invest may temporarily fall out of favor with investors or may be more volatile than particular foreign stock markets or foreign stock markets as a whole. |
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The smaller the capitalization of a company, generally the less liquid its stock and the more volatile its price. Companies with smaller market capitalizations also tend to have unproven track records and are more likely to fail than companies with larger market capitalizations. |
|
Stocks of large cap or small cap foreign companies in which the Funds underlying investment companies may invest may suffer unexpected losses or lower than expected earnings or such securities may become difficult or impossible to sell at the time and for the price the underlying investment advisers would like. |
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Because the Fund owns shares of underlying investment companies that invest in foreign issuers, the Fund is subject to risks presented by investments in such issuers. Securities of foreign issuers may be negatively affected by political events, economic conditions, or inefficient, illiquid or unregulated markets in foreign countries. Foreign issuers may be subject to inadequate regulatory or accounting standards. |
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Investments in emerging market securities by underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests are subject to higher risks than those in developed market countries because there is greater uncertainty in less established markets and economics. |
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The Advisers judgment about the attractiveness or potential appreciation of a particular underlying investment company security could prove to be wrong or the Fund could miss out on an investment opportunity because the assets necessary to take advantage of such opportunity are tied up in less advantageous investments. |
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Because under normal circumstances the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in shares of registered investment companies that emphasize investments in equity securities of foreign companies, the NAV of the Fund will change with changes in the share prices of the investment companies in which the Fund invests. |
|
There is a risk that the Fund, which is passively managed, may not perform as well as funds with more active methods of investment management, such as selecting securities based on economic, financial, and market analysis. |
|
The performance of the Fund will depend on how successfully the investment advisers to the underlying investment companies pursue their investment strategies. |
The bar chart and performance table have been omitted because the Fund has not commenced operations as of the date of this Prospectus. The Fund intends to evaluate its performance as compared to that of a broad-based index and a Composite Index. The broad-based index will be the MSCI World (excluding U.S.) Index. The Composite Index will be comprised of the MSCI EAFE Index, MSCI EAFE Value Index, MSCI EAFE Small Company Index, and MSCI Emerging Markets Free Index, each weighted 25%, 25%, 25% and 25%, respectively. The following is a description of each index:
10
The MSCI World (excluding U.S.) Index is a stock market index of world stocks maintained by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) The index includes a selection of stocks of developed markets, as defined by MSCI. This index contains securities from the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and United States.
The MSCI Europe, Australasia, and Far East (EAFE) Index is a stock market index of foreign stocks that covers 85% of the equity market of the following developed countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.
The MSCI EAFE Value Index is a subset of the EAFE Index and includes securities from Europe, Australasia (Australia and Asia) and the Far East. The Index generally represents approximately 50% of the market capitalization of the EAFE Index and consists of those securities classified by MSCI as most representing the value style.
The MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index targets 40% of the eligible small cap universe within each industry group, within each country. MSCI defines the small cap universe as all listed securities that have a market capitalization in the range of $200 million to $1.5 billion.
The MSCI Emerging Markets Free Index is designed to measure equity market performance in global emerging markets. The Index contains securities from the following emerging market countries: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Czech Republic, Egypt, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Israel, Jordan, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Russia, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, and Turkey.
Expenses and Fees
As a shareholder, you pay certain fees and expenses. The table below describes the estimated fees and
Annual Fund Operating Expenses*
(Expenses that are deducted from Fund assets)
Management Fees |
0.50 | % | |
Distribution (12b-1) and/or Service Fees |
None | ||
Other Expenses 1 |
0.29 | % | |
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses 2 |
0.53 | % | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses 3 |
1.32 | % | |
* | Shareholders requesting redemption by wire are charged a transaction fee of $7.50. |
1 |
Other expenses for the Fund are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year. Other expenses include audit, administration, custody, legal, registration, transfer agency, and miscellaneous other charges. |
11
2 |
Acquired Fund means any investment company in which the Fund expects to invest during the current fiscal year. Net Operating Expenses will not correlate to the Funds ratio of expenses to average net assets, which reflects the operating expenses of the Fund and does not include Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. The Fund calculates the Acquired Funds expenses using the net expense ratios reported in the Acquired Funds most recent shareholder reports. |
3 |
The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses to 1.35% of the Funds average daily net assets through December 31, 2007. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2007. |
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 the period. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year, that the operating expenses of the Fund remain the same, and that you reinvest all dividends and distributions. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions, your costs would be:
1 Year |
3 Years |
|
$ 137 |
$ 428 |
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DESCRIPTION OF THE FREE MARKET FIXED INCOME FUND
The Free Market Fixed Income Fund seeks total return (consisting of current income and capital appreciation). The Funds investment goal is not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval by the Companys Board of Directors upon prior written notice to shareholders.
Principal Investment Strategies
Investments : The Fund pursues its investment goal by investing under normal circumstances at least 80% of its net assets in shares of registered, open-end investment companies and exchange-traded funds (ETFs)(collectively, investment companies) that emphasize investments in fixed income securities that the Adviser believes offer the prospect of providing total return.
The Adviser uses target ranges in allocating the Funds assets among various investment company asset classes. The Adviser expects the Funds investment to be within plus or minus 5% of the following target ranges.
Asset Class |
Target | ||
One-Year Fixed Income |
25 | % | |
Two-Year Global Fixed Income |
25 | % | |
Five-Year Government Fixed Income |
25 | % | |
Five-Year Global Fixed Income |
25 | % |
Target allocations represent the Funds current target for investments in a particular asset class. Actual allocations may differ from the target due to market fluctuations and other factors. The Adviser may change these target allocations and ranges from time to time without shareholder approval.
The Fund invests in investment companies that are not affiliated with it. These investment companies may be within the same fund complex and/or advised by the same investment adviser.
Strategies: The Adviser focuses on the returns of investment companies within each of the target asset classes while keeping trading costs to a minimum. Under normal market conditions, the Adviser expects substantially all of the Funds net assets to be invested in the securities of investment companies that invest in the types of securities in each asset class described below, with less than 2% of its net assets invested in cash or money market instruments.
One-Year Fixed Income Asset Class: The underlying investment companies comprising the one-year fixed income asset class generally will purchase U.S. government obligations, U.S. government agency obligations, dollar-denominated obligations of foreign issuers issued in the U.S., foreign government and agency obligations, bank obligations, including the obligations of U.S. subsidiaries and branches of foreign banks, corporate obligations, commercial paper, repurchase agreements, and obligations of supranational organizations such as the World Bank, the European Investment Bank, European Economic Community and European Coal and Steel Community. Generally, underlying investment companies comprising this asset class will purchase obligations which mature within one year from the date of settlement, but substantial investments may be made in obligations maturing within two years from the date of settlement when greater returns are available.
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Two-Year Global Fixed Income Asset Class: The underlying investment companies comprising the two-year global fixed income asset class generally will purchase obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. and foreign governments, their agencies and instrumentalities, corporate debt obligations, bank obligations, commercial paper, repurchase agreements, and other debt obligations of domestic and foreign issuers. Generally, investment companies in this asset class will purchase obligations with weighted average maturity not exceeding two years. However, investments may be made in obligations maturing in a shorter time period (from overnight to less than two years from the date of settlement). Because many of the investments of the underlying investment companies in this asset class will be denominated in foreign currencies, the underlying investment companies may also enter into forward foreign currency contracts solely for the purpose of hedging against fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
Five-Year Government Fixed Income Asset Class : The underlying investment companies comprising the five-year government fixed income asset class generally will purchase U.S. government obligations and U.S. government agency obligations. Generally investment companies in this asset class will purchase obligations with a weighted average maturity not exceeding five years. However, investments may be made in obligations maturing in a shorter time period (from overnight to less than five years from the date of settlement).
Five-Year Global Fixed Income Asset Class : The underlying investment companies comprising the five-year global fixed income asset class generally will purchase obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. and foreign governments, their agencies and instrumentalities, obligations of other foreign issuers, corporate debt obligations, bank obligations, commercial paper, and obligations of supranational organizations. Generally investment companies in this asset class will purchase obligations with a weighted average maturity not exceeding five years. However, investments may be made in obligations maturing in a shorter time period (from overnight to less than five years from the date of settlement).
Credit Ratings: Corporate debt obligations and dollar-denominated obligations of foreign issuers issued in the U.S. in which the underlying investment companies may invest will be issued by companies whose commercial paper is rated Prime-1 by Moodys Investors, Inc. (Moodys) or A-1 by Standard & Poors ® (S&P) If the issuers commercial paper is unrated, then the debt security must be rated at least AA by S&P or Aa2 by Moodys. If there is neither a commercial paper rating nor a rating of the debt security, then the investment adviser(s) to the underlying investment companies must determine that the debt security is of comparable quality to equivalent issues of the same issuer rated at least AA or Aa2.
Commercial Paper in which the underlying investment companies may invest will be rated, at the time of purchase, A-1 or better by S&P or Prime-1 by Moodys, or, if unrated, issued by a corporation having an outstanding unsecured debt issue rated Aaa by Moodys or AAA by S&P.
Debt securities of foreign issuers in which the underlying investment companies may invest will be rated AA or better by S&P or Aa2 or better by Moodys.
The Fund will notify shareholders in writing at least 60 days prior to any change in its policy of investing at least 80% of its net assets in shares of investment companies that emphasize investments in fixed income securities.
The Fund reserves the right to hold up to 100% of its assets as a temporary defensive measure in cash and money market instruments. To the extent the Fund employs a temporary defensive measure, the Fund may not achieve its investment goal.
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Investing in any mutual fund involves risks, including the risk that you may receive little or no return on your investment, the risk that the Fund could underperform other possible investments, and the risk that you may lose part or all of the money you invest. Before you invest in the Fund, you should carefully evaluate the risks. You could lose money on your investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves the same investment risks as those of the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests. These risks may adversely affect the Funds NAV and investment performance. The Fund is subject to the following principal risks:
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Fixed income securities in which the Funds underlying investment companies may invest are subject to certain risks, including interest rate risk, reinvestment risk, prepayment and extension risk, credit/default risk, and the risks associated with investing in repurchase agreements. |
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Interest rate risk involves the risk that prices of fixed income securities will rise and fall in response to interest rate changes. |
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Reinvestment risk involves the risk that proceeds from matured investments may be re-invested at lower interest rates. |
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Prepayment risk involves the risk that in declining interest rates environments prepayments of principal could increase and require the Fund to reinvest proceeds of the prepayments at lower interest rates. |
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Extension risk involves the risk that prepayments of principal will decrease when interest rates rise resulting in a longer effective maturity of a security. |
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Credit risk involves the risk that the credit rating of a security may be lowered. |
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Repurchase agreement risk involves the risk that the other party to a repurchase agreement will be unable to complete the transaction and the underlying investment company in which the Fund invests may suffer a loss as a result. |
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Because the Fund owns shares of underlying investment companies that invest in foreign issuers, the Fund is subject to risks presented by investments in such issuers. Securities of foreign issuers may be negatively affected by political events, economic conditions, or inefficient, illiquid or unregulated markets in foreign countries. Foreign issuers may be subject to inadequate regulatory or accounting standards. |
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Currency risk is the risk that exchange rates for currencies in which securities held by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests are denominated will fluctuate daily. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts may limit potential gains from a favorable change in value between the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies. Unanticipated changes in currency pricing may result in poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged in these contracts. |
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The Advisers judgment about the attractiveness or potential appreciation of a particular underlying investment company security could prove to be wrong or the Fund could miss out on an investment opportunity because the assets necessary to take advantage of such opportunity are tied up in less advantageous investments. |
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Because under normal circumstances the Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in shares of registered investment companies that emphasize investments in fixed income securities, the NAV of the Fund will change with changes in the share prices of the investment companies in which the Fund invests. |
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Not all obligations of U.S. government agencies and instrumentalities are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury; some are backed only by the credit of the issuing agency or instrumentality. For instance, obligations of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury but are backed by the credit of the federal agencies or government sponsored entities. Accordingly, there may be some risk of default by the issuer in such cases. |
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There is a risk that the Fund, which is passively managed, may not perform as well as funds with more active methods of investment management, such as selecting securities based on economic, financial, and market analysis. |
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The performance of the Fund will depend on how successfully the investment advisers to the underlying investment companies pursue their investment strategies. |
The bar chart and performance table have been omitted because the Fund has not commenced operations as of the date of this Prospectus. The Fund intends to evaluate its performance as compared to that of a broad-based index and a Composite Index. The broad-based index will be the CitiGroup World Government Bond Index 1-5 Year Currency Hedged U.S. Dollar Index. The Composite Index will be comprised of the Three-Month Treasury Bill Index, Lehman Brothers Intermediate Government Bond Index, Merrill Lynch 1-3 Year US Government/Corporate Index and Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index, each weighted 25%, respectively. The following is a description of each index:
CitiGroup World Government Bond Index 1-5 Year Currency Hedged U.S. Dollar Index includes the most significant and liquid government bond markets globally that carry at least an investment grade rating. Currently, this includes all countries in the CitiGroup EMU Governments Index (EGBI) (currently, Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain) and Australia, Canada, Denmark, Japan, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and the United States. Index weights are based on the market capitalization of qualifying outstanding debt stocks.
Three Month Treasury-Bill Index consists of three-month Treasury bills purchased at the beginning of each of three consecutive months. As each bill matures, all proceeds are rolled over or reinvested in a new three-month bill. The income used to calculate the monthly return is derived by subtracting the original amount invested from the maturity value. The index is rebalanced monthly by market capitalization.
Lehman Brothers Intermediate Government Bond Index is a weighted index of U.S. government and government agency securities (other than mortgage securities) with maturities of one year or more.
Merrill Lynch 1-3 Year U.S. Government/Corporate Index is an unmanaged index of short-term U.S. government securities and short-term domestic investment-grade corporate bonds with maturities between 1 and 2.99 years.
Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index is a market capitalization-weighted index, meaning the securities in the index are weighted according to the market size of each bond type. Most U.S. traded investment grade bonds are represented. Municipal bonds and Treasury Inflation-Protected securities are excluded. The Index includes Treasury securities, Government agency bonds, mortgage-backed bonds, corporate bonds, and a small amount of foreign bonds traded in the U.S. The Lehman Aggregate Bond Index is an intermediate term index. The average maturity is 6.92 years as of April 30, 2007.
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Expenses and Fees
As a shareholder, you pay certain fees and expenses. The table below describes the estimated fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund (Shares).
Annual Fund Operating Expenses*
(Expenses that are deducted from Fund assets)
Management Fees |
0.50 | % | |
Distribution (12b-1) and/or Service Fees |
None | ||
Other Expenses 1 |
0.29 | % | |
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses 2 |
0.20 | % | |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses 3 |
0.99 | % | |
* | Shareholders requesting redemption by wire are charged a transaction fee of $7.50. |
1 | Other expenses for the Fund are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year. Other expenses include audit, administration, custody, legal, registration, transfer agency, and miscellaneous other charges. |
2 | Acquired Fund means any investment company in which the Fund expects to invest during the current fiscal year. Net Operating Expenses will not correlate to the Funds ratio of expenses to average net assets, which reflects the operating expenses of the Fund and does not include Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses. The Fund calculates the Acquired Funds expenses using the net expense ratios reported in the Acquired Funds most recent shareholder reports. |
3 | The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses to 1.00% of the Funds average daily net assets through December 31, 2007. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2007. |
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 the period. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year, that the operating expenses of the Fund remain the same, and that you reinvest all dividends and distributions. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions, your costs would be:
1 Year |
3 Years |
|
$ 102 | $ 318 |
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MORE ABOUT EACH FUNDS INVESTMENTS AND RISKS
The Risk/Return Information describes each Funds investment goal and its principal investment strategies and risks. This section provides some additional information about the Funds and underlying investment companies in which the Funds may invest and certain portfolio management techniques that such underlying investment companies may use.
Investments in Investment Companies and the Investment Company Industry . The Funds invest primarily in securities of registered investment companies and will attempt to identify investment companies that have demonstrated superior management, favorable investment results, and relatively lower costs and expenses. There can be no assurance that this result will be achieved. Each Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by the investment companies in which it invests including the advisory and administration fees paid by the underlying fund. Some underlying investment companies may concentrate their investments in various industries or industry sectors and may use options, futures, or options on futures in their investment programs.
Investment decisions by the investment advisers of the underlying investment companies are made independently of the Funds and the Adviser. Therefore, the investment adviser of one underlying investment company may be purchasing shares of the same issuer whose shares are being sold by the investment adviser of another underlying investment company. The result of this would be an indirect expense to a Fund without accomplishing any investment purpose.
Each Fund expects that it will select the investment companies in which it will invest based, in part, upon an analysis of the past and projected performance and investment structure of the underlying investment companies. However, each Fund may consider other factors in the selection of investment companies. These other factors include, but are not limited to the investment companys size, shareholder services, liquidity, investment objective and investment techniques. Each Fund will be affected by the losses of its underlying investment companies and the level of risk arising from the investment practices of such investment companies and has no control over the risks taken by such investment companies.
Investing in investment companies does not eliminate investment risk. When the Adviser has identified a significant upward trend in a particular asset class, each Fund retains the right to invest in investment companies that invest primarily in that particular asset class in accordance with the Funds target range for that asset class. Investment companies may have greater fluctuations in value when compared to other categories of investment companies that are not invested primarily in the particular asset class selected by the Adviser.
More About Underlying Investment Company Investments
Underlying Investment Companies. The underlying investment companies in which the Funds may invest reflect a broad spectrum of investment opportunities including equities, fixed income, domestic, foreign and emerging markets. These investment companies may invest in various obligations and employ various investment techniques. The following describes these obligations and techniques:
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Derivative Contracts. The underlying investment companies in which each of the Funds invest may, but need not, use derivative contracts to seek to hedge against the possible adverse impact of changes in stock market prices, currency exchange rates (with respect to the Free Market Fixed Income Fund only) or interest rates in the market value of its securities or securities to be purchased. |
Examples of derivative contracts include: futures and options on securities, securities indices or currencies; options on these futures; forward foreign currency contracts, and interest rate or currency swaps. A derivative contract will obligate or entitle an underlying investment company to
18
deliver or receive an asset or cash payment that is based on the change in value of one or more securities, currencies or indices. Even a small investment in derivative contracts can have a big impact on an underlying investment companys stock market, currency and interest rate exposure. Therefore, using derivatives can disproportionately increase losses and reduce opportunities for gains when stock prices, currency rates or interest rates are changing. An underlying investment company may not fully benefit from or may lose money on derivatives if changes in their value do not correspond accurately to changes in the value of the investment companys holdings. The other parties to certain derivative contracts present the same types of default risk as issuers of fixed income securities in that the counterparty may default on its payment obligations or become insolvent. Derivatives can also make an underlying investment company less liquid and harder to value, especially in declining markets.
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Equity Investments. The underlying investment companies in which the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund and Free Market International Equity Fund invest may purchase all types of equity securities. Equity securities include exchange-traded and over-the-counter common and preferred stocks, warrants, rights, convertible securities, depositary receipts and shares, trust certificates, limited partnership interests, and equity participations. |
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Fixed Income Investments. The underlying investment companies in which the Free Market Fixed Income Fund invests may purchase all types of fixed income securities, although these investments are not part of such Funds primary investment strategies. The Free Market U.S. Equity Fund and the Free Market International Equity Fund may invest a portion of their assets in underlying investment companies that invest in fixed income securities, although these investments are not part of such Funds principal investment strategies. Fixed income investments include bonds, notes (including structured notes), mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities, convertible securities, Eurodollar and Yankee dollar instruments, preferred stocks and money market instruments. Fixed income securities may be issued by corporate, governmental and foreign issuers and may have all types of interest rate payment and reset terms, including (without limitation) fixed rate, adjustable rate, zero coupon, contingent, deferred, payment-in-kind and auction rate features. |
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Foreign Securities. The securities held by the underlying investment companies in which the Free Market International Equity Fund and the Free Market Fixed Income Fund invest generally are traded or denominated in foreign currencies. Investments in securities of foreign entities and securities denominated or traded in foreign currencies involve special risks. These include possible political and economic instability and the possible imposition of exchange controls or other restrictions on investments. Changes in foreign currency rates relative to the U.S. dollar will affect the U.S. dollar value of an underlying investment companys assets denominated or quoted in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Emerging market investments offer the potential for significant gains but also involve greater risks than investing in more developed countries. Political or economic instability, lack of market liquidity and government actions such as currency controls or seizure of private business or property may be more likely in emerging markets. |
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Mortgage-Backed Securities. Mortgage-backed securities in which the underlying investment companies invest may be issued by private companies or by agencies of the U.S. Government. Mortgage-backed securities represent direct or indirect participation in, or are collateralized by and payable from, mortgage loans secured by real property. |
Certain debt instruments may only pay principal at maturity or may only represent the right to receive payments of principal or payments of interest on underlying pools of mortgage or government securities, but not both. The value of these types of instruments may change more drastically than debt securities that pay both principal and interest during periods of changing interest rates. Principal only mortgage-backed securities are particularly subject to prepayment risk. An underlying investment company may obtain a below market yield or incur a loss on such instruments during periods of declining interest rates. Interest only instruments are particularly subject to extension risk. Mortgage
19
derivatives and structural securities often employ features that have the effect of leverage. As a result, small changes in interest or prepayment rates may cause large and sudden price movements, especially compared to an investment in a security that is not leveraged. Mortgage derivatives can also become illiquid and hard to value in declining markets.
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Securities Lending . The underlying investment companies may seek to increase their income by lending portfolio securities to institutions, such as certain broker-dealers. Portfolio securities loans are secured continuously by collateral maintained on a current basis at an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. The value of the securities loaned by the underlying investment company will not exceed 33 1 / 3 % of the value of the investment companys total assets. The underlying investment company may experience a loss or delay in the recovery of its securities if the borrowing institution breaches its agreement with the investment company. Lending portfolio securities involves the risk of delay in receiving additional collateral if the value of the securities goes up while they are on loan. |
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Borrowing . The underlying investment companies may borrow money for temporary or emergency (not leveraging) purposes. A Fund will not make any additional investments in an investment company while such investment companys borrowings exceed 5% of its total assets. |
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Temporary Investments . The Funds may depart from their principal investment strategies in response to adverse market, economic or political conditions by taking temporary defensive positions in cash or money market instruments. If a Fund were to take a temporary defensive position, it may be unable to achieve its investment goal. |
The following provides additional information about the risks of investing in the Funds:
Other Investment Companies. Each Funds NAV will fluctuate due to business developments concerning a particular issuer or industry as well as general market and economic conditions affecting securities held by the particular underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests. Investment decisions by the investment advisers of the underlying investment companies in which the Funds invest are made independently of the Funds and the Adviser. Each Fund will be affected by the losses of its underlying investment companies and the risks involved in the investment practices of such investment companies. Neither the Funds nor the Adviser has any control over the risks taken by such investment companies. Some underlying investment companies may concentrate their investments in various industries or sectors and may invest in derivative securities, options or futures.
Small Company Securities. While the securities of small capitalization companies in which the Free Market U.S. Equity and Free Market International Equity Funds underlying investment companies invest may offer greater opportunity for capital appreciation than larger companies, investment in such companies presents greater risks than investment in larger, more established companies. Historically, small capitalization stocks have been more volatile in price than larger capitalization stocks. Among the reasons for the greater price volatility of these securities are the lower degree of liquidity in the markets for such stocks, and the potentially greater sensitivity of such small companies to changes in or failure of management, and to many other changes in competitive, business, industry and economic conditions, including risks associated with limited product lines, markets, management depth, or financial resources. Besides exhibiting greater volatility, micro and small company stocks may, to a degree, fluctuate independently of larger company stocks. Small company stocks may decline in price as large company stocks rise, or rise in price as large company stocks decline. Additionally, while the markets in securities of small companies have grown rapidly in recent years, such securities may trade less frequently and in smaller volume than more widely held securities. The values of these securities may fluctuate more sharply than those of other securities, and the underlying investment companies in which the Funds invest may experience some difficulty in establishing or closing out positions in these securities at prevailing
20
market prices. There may be less publicly available information about the issuers of these securities or less market interest in such securities than in the case of larger companies and it may take a longer period of time for the prices of such securities to reflect the full value of their issuers underlying earnings potential or assets.
Stock Market. Underlying investment companies in which the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund and Free Market International Equity Fund may invest are subject to fluctuations in the stock markets, which have periods of increasing and decreasing values. Equity securities typically have greater volatility than fixed income securities.
Foreign Investing . Foreign securities in which the Free Market International Equity Fund and Free Market Fixed Income Funds underlying investment companies may invest pose additional risks over U.S.-based securities for a number of reasons. Investments in foreign securities may adversely affect the value of an investment in certain underlying investment companies. Foreign economic, governmental, and political systems may be less favorable than those of the U.S. Foreign governments may exercise greater control over their economies, industries, and citizens rights. Specific risk factors related to foreign securities include: inflation, structure and regulation of financial markets, liquidity and volatility of investments, currency exchange rates and regulations and accounting standards. Foreign companies may also be subject to significantly higher levels of taxation than U.S. companies, including potentially confiscatory levels of taxation, thereby reducing their earnings potential, and amounts realized on foreign securities may be subject to high levels of foreign taxation and withholding. In addition, these underlying investment companies may incur higher costs and expenses when making foreign investments, which will affect the underlying investment companies total return.
Currency Risk. With respect to investments in foreign securities by underlying investment companies in which the Free Market International Equity Fund and the Free Market Fixed Income Fund invest, exchange rates for currencies fluctuate daily. The combination of currency risk and market risk tends to make securities traded in foreign markets more volatile than securities traded exclusively in the U.S. Foreign securities are usually denominated in a foreign currency; therefore, changes in foreign currency exchange rates can affect the NAV of an underlying investment company. Diversification among foreign currencies will not protect the underlying investment companies against a general increase in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies.
Emerging Market Securities. Underlying investment companies in which the Free Market International Equity Fund invests may purchase the securities of issuers located in developing or emerging market countries. The risks of foreign investments are typically increased in less developed countries, which are sometimes referred to as emerging markets, because there is greater uncertainty in less established markets and economies. These risks include political, social or economic systems, smaller securities markets, lower trading volume, and substantial rates of inflation. To the extent an underlying investment company is invested in emerging market securities, it will be subject to higher risk than those investing in securities of developed market countries.
Interest Rate Risk . During periods of rising interest rates, an underlying investment companys yield and the market value of the investment companys fixed-income securities will tend to be lower than prevailing market interest rates. In periods of falling interest rates, the underlying investment companys yield and the market value of the underlying investment companys fixed-income securities generally will tend to be higher than prevailing market interest rates. Prices of longer-term fixed income securities are typically more sensitive to changes in interest rates than prices of shorter-term fixed-income securities.
Cash Flow Risk. Payment of principal on the mortgages or other assets underlying a particular fixed income security in which an underlying investment company invests may be faster or slower than estimated. When interest rates are rising, prepayment of principal typically slows and may extend the average life of these instruments, making them more sensitive to changes in interest rates. This is known as extension risk. When interest rates decline, borrowers may pay off their mortgages or other loans sooner than expected and will typically shorten the average life of these instruments. This is known as prepayment risk .
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Credit/Default Risk. The credit rating of an issuer or guarantor of a security in which an underlying investment company invests may be lowered or an issuer or guarantor of a security or the counterparty to a derivatives contract or a repurchase agreement may default on its payment obligations.
U.S. Government Securities Risk . The U.S. Government may not provide financial support to U.S. Government instrumentalities or sponsored enterprises if it is not obligated to do so by law. Some U.S. Government securities are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury. Other issuers, however, may be chartered or sponsored by Acts of Congress, although their securities are neither issued nor guaranteed by the United States Treasury and, therefore, are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States.
Derivatives Risk. Loss may result from an underlying investment companys investments in futures, swaps, options and other derivative instruments. These instruments may be leveraged so that small changes in value may produce disproportionate losses to the underlying investment company. Using derivative instruments may involve risks different from, or possibly greater than, the risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments. An underlying investment companys investment in a derivative instrument could lose more than the principal amount invested. Also, suitable derivative transactions may not be available in all circumstances and there can be no assurance that the underlying investment company will engage in these transactions to reduce exposure to other risks when they would be beneficial.
Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings
A description of the Companys policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of the Funds portfolio securities is available in the SAI.
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Abundance Technologies, Inc. (Abundance or the Adviser) is located at 3700 Park 42 Drive, Suite 105A, Cincinnati, Ohio 42141. Abundance was founded in 1991 and provides advisory services to individuals, trusts, corporations, non-profit organizations, retirement plans and foundations. Mark E. Matson, President, Chief Financial Officer and a Director of Abundance, owns approximately 51% of Abundances outstanding voting securities. Abundance had approximately $ billion in assets under management as of June 30, 2007.
Subject to the general supervision of the Companys Board of Directors, Abundance manages the Funds portfolio and is responsible for the selection and management of all investments of the Funds in accordance with the Funds investment goal and policies.
A team of portfolio managers, led by Daniel J. List, is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Funds. Mark E. Matson and Steven B. Miller assist Mr. List in managing the assets of the Funds.
Daniel J. List, Director of Portfolio Management of the Adviser, has been employed by the Adviser since 1994. He is responsible for portfolio designs, compliance, trading and system designs.
Mark E. Matson, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Adviser, founded the Adviser in 1991 and for the past five years has served as head portfolio manager at the Adviser.
Steven B. Miller, Director of Operations and Portfolio Manager of the Adviser, has been employed by the Adviser since April 2004 as a portfolio manager and then as Director of Operations/Chief Compliance Officer. Prior thereto, he was a senior financial analyst with F+W Publications Inc. from November 2002 to April 2004, and a financial analyst with MidLand Enterprises, Inc. from April 2002 to November 2002.
The SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers compensation, other accounts managed by the portfolio managers and the portfolio managers ownership of securities in the Funds.
Pursuant to an investment advisory agreement with the Company, the Adviser is entitled to an advisory fee at the annual rate of 0.50% of each Funds average daily net assets, computed daily and payable monthly. A discussion regarding the Board of Directors basis for approving the investment advisory agreement with respect to the Funds will be available in the Funds semi-annual report for the period ended February 28, 2008 when prepared.
The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive a portion of its advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to limit total annual operating expenses of the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund and the Free Market Fixed Income Fund to 1.13%, 1.35% and 1.00%, respectively, of the particular Funds average daily net assets through December 31, 2007. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2007.
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The Adviser may pay compensation, out of its own funds and not as an expense of the Funds, to certain brokerage firms, investment advisers or financial institutions in connection with the sale or retention of shares of the Funds and/or shareholder servicing. The Statement of Additional Information provides additional information about these revenue sharing arrangements.
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The following chart shows the Funds service providers and includes their addresses and principal activities.
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The Funds Shares are priced at their net asset value (NAV). The NAV per share of each Fund is calculated as follows:
Value of Assets Attributable to the Funds Shares | ||||
NAV = | | Value of Liabilities Attributable to the Funds Shares | ||
Number of Outstanding Shares of the Fund |
Each Funds NAV is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)(generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. The NYSE is generally open Monday through Friday, except national holidays. The Funds will effect purchases of Fund Shares at the public offering price next determined after receipt of your order or request in proper form. The Funds will effect redemptions of Fund Shares at the NAV next calculated after receipt of your order in proper form.
Investments in other mutual funds are valued based on the NAV of those mutual funds (which may use fair value pricing as disclosed in their prospectuses). A Funds direct investments in equity securities listed on any national or foreign exchange will be valued at the last sale price for all exchanges, except the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (NASDAQ). Equity securities listed on NASDAQ will be valued at the official closing price for the NASDAQ. Direct investments in equity securities traded in the over-the-counter market are valued at their closing prices. If there were no transactions on that day, securities traded principally on an exchange or on NASDAQ will be valued at the mean of the valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. A Funds direct investments in fixed income securities having a remaining maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Direct investments in fixed income securities having a remaining maturity of greater than 60 days are valued using an independent pricing service. Direct investments in foreign securities, currencies and other securities denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate of such currencies against the U.S. dollar provided by a pricing service. All assets denominated in foreign currencies will be converted into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect at the time of valuation. If a Fund holds foreign securities, the calculation of the Funds NAV will not occur at the same time as the determination of the value of the foreign securities in the Funds portfolio, since these securities are traded on foreign exchanges.
If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, the fair value of a Funds investments will be determined by its Valuation Committee in accordance with procedures adopted by the Companys Board of Directors. In addition, the prices of foreign securities may be affected by events that occur after the close of a foreign market but before a Fund prices its shares. In such instances, a Funds Valuation Committee may fair value such foreign securities. The use of a pricing service and fair valuation involve the risk that the values used by a Fund to price its investments may be higher or lower than the values used by other mutual funds and investors to price the same investments.
In accordance with the policy adopted by the Companys Board of Directors, the Company discourages market timing and other excessive trading practices. Purchases should be made with a view to longer-term investment only. Excessive short-term (market timing) trading practices may disrupt Fund management strategies, increase brokerage and administrative costs, harm Fund performance and result in dilution in the value of Shares held by long-term shareholders. The Company and the Adviser reserve the right to reject or restrict purchase requests from any investor. The Company and the Adviser will not be
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liable for any loss resulting from rejected purchase orders. To minimize harm to the Company and its shareholders (or the Adviser), the Company (or the Adviser) will exercise their right if, in the Companys (or the Advisers) judgment, an investor has a history of excessive trading or if an investors trading, in the judgment of the Company or the Adviser, has been or may be disruptive to a Fund. No waivers of the provisions of the policy established to detect and deter market timing and other excessive trading activity are permitted that would harm a Fund and its shareholders or would subordinate the interests of the Fund and its shareholders to those of the Adviser or any affiliated person or associated person of the Adviser.
Pursuant to the policy adopted by the Board of Directors, the Adviser has developed criteria that it uses to identify trading activity that may be excessive. The Adviser reviews on a regular, periodic basis available information related to the trading activity in each Fund in order to assess the likelihood that the Fund may be the target of excessive trading. As part of its excessive trading surveillance process, the Adviser, on a periodic basis, examines transactions that exceed certain monetary thresholds or numerical limits within a period of time. If, in its judgment, the Adviser detects excessive, short-term trading, the Adviser may reject or restrict a purchase request and may further seek to close an investors account with a Fund. The Adviser may modify its surveillance procedures and criteria from time to time without prior notice regarding the detection of excessive trading or to address specific circumstances. The Adviser will apply the criteria in a manner that, in the Advisers judgment, will be uniform.
There is no assurance that the Funds will be able to identify market timing, particularly if shareholders invest through intermediaries.
Purchase of Fund Shares
General . Shares of the Funds are offered continuously for sale at NAV by PFPC Distributors, Inc. (the Distributor). You can only purchase Shares through the means described below. The Funds have no minimum initial investment or minimum subsequent investment.
Purchases Through Intermediaries . The Funds are exclusively available to shareholders of service organizations approved by the Adviser, including certain brokerage firms, investment advisers, financial institutions and other industry professionals (Service Organizations). Only shareholders having relationships with these Service Organizations may invest in the Funds. If a shareholder terminates his or her relationship with a Service Organization, the shareholder will not be permitted to purchase additional Fund Shares except for Shares purchased as a result of the reinvestment of dividends and distributions. Service Organizations may impose transaction or administrative charges or other direct fees, which would not be imposed if shares of the Fund were purchased directly from the Company. Therefore, investors should contact the Service Organization acting on their behalf concerning the fees, if any, charged in connection with a purchase or redemption of shares of the Funds and should read this Prospectus in light of the terms governing their accounts with the Service Organization. Service Organizations may impose minimum initial and minimum subsequent investment requirements with respect to their customers investments in the Funds and will be responsible for promptly transmitting client or customer purchase and redemption orders to the Company in accordance with their agreements with the Company and with clients and customers. A Service Organization or, if applicable, its designee that has entered into such an agreement with the Company or its agent may enter confirmed purchase orders on behalf of clients and customers, with payment to follow no later than the Funds pricing on the following business day. If payment is not received by such time, the Service Organization could be held liable for resulting fees or losses.
Good Order . The Company will be deemed to have received a purchase or redemption order when a Service Organization, or if applicable, its authorized designee, accepts a purchase or redemption order in good order. Orders received by a Fund in good order will be executed at the Funds NAV next determined after they are accepted by the Service Organization or its authorized designee.
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The Company relies upon the integrity of Service Organizations to ensure that orders are timely and properly submitted. The Funds cannot assure you that Service Organizations have properly submitted to it all purchase and redemption orders received from the Service Organizations customers before the time for determination of the Funds NAV in order to obtain that days price.
You must include complete and accurate required information on your purchase request. Purchase requests not in good order may be rejected.
Retirement Plans . Shares of a Fund may be purchased in connection with various retirement plans, including Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), section 403(b) plans and retirement plans for self-employed individuals, partnerships and corporations and their employees. Detailed information concerning retirement plans is available from your Service Organization. A $15.00 retirement custodial maintenance fee is charged per IRA account per year. For further information as to applications and annual fees, contact your Service Organization. To determine whether the benefits of an IRA are available and/or appropriate, you should consult with a tax advisor.
Other Purchase Information: The Company reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to suspend the offering of Shares or to reject purchase orders when, in the judgment of management, such suspension or rejection is in the best interests of a Fund. The Adviser will monitor each Funds total assets and may decide to close any of the Funds at any time to new investments or to new accounts due to concerns that a significant increase in the size of a Fund may adversely affect the implementation of the Funds strategy. Subject to the Board of Directors discretion, the Adviser may also choose to reopen a Fund to new investments at any time and may subsequently close the Fund again should concerns regarding the Funds size recur. If a Fund closes to new investments, the Fund would be offered only to certain existing shareholders of the Fund and certain other persons, who are generally subject to cumulative, maximum purchase amounts, as follows:
a. | persons who already hold Shares of the closed Fund directly or through accounts maintained by brokers by arrangement with the Company, |
b. | existing and future clients of financial advisers and planners whose clients already hold Shares of the closed Fund, and |
c. | employees of the Adviser and their spouses, parents and children. |
Other persons who are shareholders of the other Free Market Funds are not permitted to acquire shares of the closed Fund by exchange. Distributions to all shareholders of the Funds will continue to be reinvested unless a shareholder elects otherwise. The Adviser reserves the right to implement other purchases limitations at the time of closing, including limitations on current shareholders.
Customer Identification Program: Federal law requires the Company to obtain, verify and record identifying information, which may include the name, residential or business street address, date of birth (for an individual), social security or taxpayer identification number or other identifying information for each investor who opens or reopens an account with the Company. Applications without the required information, or without any indication that a social security or taxpayer identification number has been applied for, may not be accepted. After acceptance, to the extent permitted by applicable law or its customer identification program, the Company reserves the right (a) to place limits on transactions in any account until the identity of the investor is verified; or (b) to refuse an investment in a Fund or to involuntarily redeem an investors shares and close an account in the event that an investors identity is not verified. The Company and its agents will not be responsible for any loss in an investors account resulting from the investors delay in providing all required identifying information or from closing an account and redeeming an investors shares when an investors identity cannot be verified.
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Redemption of Fund Shares
General . You may submit redemption requests to your Service Organization in person or by telephone, mail or wire. Redemption requests are effected at the NAV next calculated after receipt of the redemption request by your Service Organization in proper form and transmission of the request to the Transfer Agent. You can only redeem Shares of a Fund on days the NYSE is open. Your Service Organization may refuse a telephone redemption request if it believes it is advisable to do so. You will bear the risk of loss from fraudulent or unauthorized instructions received over the telephone provided your Service Organization reasonably believes that the instructions are genuine.
Telephone Redemptions . During periods of dramatic economic or market changes, you may experience difficulty in implementing a telephone redemption with your Service Organization because of increased telephone volume.
Involuntary Redemption: Each Fund reserves the right to redeem a shareholders account in the Fund at any time the value of the account falls below $500 as the result of a redemption or an exchange request. Shareholders will be notified in writing that the value of their account in a Fund is less than $500 and will be allowed 30 days to make additional investments before the redemption is processed.
Other Redemption Information: Redemption proceeds for Shares of a Fund recently purchased by check may not be distributed until payment for the purchase has been collected, which may take up to fifteen days from the purchase date. Shareholders can avoid this delay by purchasing shares electronically through a wire transfer.
Other than as described above, payment of the redemption proceeds will be made within seven days after receipt of an order for a redemption. The Company may suspend the right of redemption or postpone the date at times when the NYSE is closed or under any emergency circumstances as determined by the Securities and Exchange Commission. If the Board of Directors determines that it would be detrimental to the best interests of the remaining shareholders of a Fund to make payment wholly or partly in cash, redemption proceeds may be paid in whole or in part by an in-kind distribution of readily marketable securities held by the Fund instead of cash in conformity with applicable rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors generally will incur brokerage charges on the sale of portfolio securities so received in the payment of redemptions. The Company has elected, however, to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, so that a Fund is obligated to redeem its Shares solely in cash up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the Funds NAV during any 90-day period for any one shareholder of the Fund.
Proper Form: You must include complete and accurate required information on your redemption request. Redemption requests not in proper form may be delayed.
Exchange Privilege
The exchange privilege is available to shareholders residing in any state in which the Shares being acquired may be legally sold. A shareholder may exchange Shares of any Free Market Fund for Shares of another Free Market Fund up to six (6) times per year (one exchange per calendar month). Such an exchange will be effected at the NAV of the exchanged Shares and the NAV of the Shares to be acquired next determined after a Service Organizations receipt of a request for an exchange. An exchange of Shares will be treated as a sale for federal income tax purposes. A shareholder may make an exchange, if authorized, by telephone. Defined contribution plans and IRA accounts are not subject to the above exchange limitations.
If the exchanging shareholder does not currently own Shares of the Fund, a new account will be established with the same registration, dividend and capital gain options as the account from which Shares
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are exchanged, unless otherwise specified in writing by the shareholder. The exchange privilege may be modified or terminated at any time, or from time to time, by the Funds, upon 60 days written notice to shareholders. If a shareholder wants to exchange shares into a new account in a Fund, the dollar value of the Shares acquired must equal or exceed the Funds minimum investment requirement for a new account. If a shareholder wants to exchange shares into an existing account, the dollar value of the shares must equal or exceed the Funds minimum investment requirement for additional investments. If an amount remains in the Fund from which the exchange is being made that is below the minimum account value required, the account will be subject to involuntary redemption.
The Funds exchange privilege is not intended to afford shareholders a way to speculate on short-term movements in the market. Accordingly, in order to prevent excessive use of the exchange privilege, which may potentially disrupt the management of the Funds and increase transaction costs, the Funds have established a policy of limiting excessive exchange activity. Shareholders are entitled to six (6) exchange redemptions (one exchange per calendar month) from each Fund during any twelve-month period. Notwithstanding these limitations, the Funds reserve the right to reject any purchase request that is deemed to be disruptive to efficient portfolio management.
Each Fund will distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any, to its shareholders. All distributions are reinvested in the form of additional full and fractional Shares of the Fund unless a shareholder elects otherwise.
The Free Market U.S. Equity Fund and the Free Market International Equity Fund will declare and pay dividends from net investment income annually. The Free Market Fixed Income Fund will declare dividends from net investment income daily and pay such dividends monthly. Net realized capital gains (including net short-term capital gains), if any, will be distributed by the Funds at least annually.
The following is a summary of certain United States tax considerations relevant under current law, which may be subject to change in the future. Except where otherwise indicated, the summary assumes you are a U.S. citizen or resident or otherwise subject to U.S. federal income tax. Potential investors should consult their tax advisers for further information regarding federal, state, local and/or foreign tax consequences relevant to their specific situations.
Each Fund contemplates declaring as dividends each year all or substantially all of its taxable income, including its net capital gain (the excess of long-term capital gain over short-term capital loss). Distributions attributable to the net capital gain of a Fund (including distributions attributable to net capital gains of underlying investment companies) will be taxable to you as long-term capital gain, regardless of how long you have held your Shares. Other Fund distributions will generally be taxable as ordinary income. A portion of those distributions, however, may be treated as qualified dividend income taxable to non-corporate U.S. shareholders at a maximum federal income tax rate of 15% for distributions received through December 31, 2010. A distribution is treated as qualified dividend income to the extent the Fund or an underlying investment company receives dividend income from taxable domestic corporations and certain qualified foreign corporations, provided that the holding period and other requirements are met by the Fund, the underlying investment company and the shareholder. Additionally, a portion of the distributions paid by a Fund may be eligible for the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders. You will be subject to income tax on Fund distributions regardless of whether they are paid in cash or reinvested in additional Shares. You will be notified annually of the tax status of distributions to you.
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You should note that if you purchase Shares just before a distribution, the purchase price will reflect the amount of the upcoming distribution, but you will be taxed on the entire amount of the distribution received, even though, as an economic matter, the distribution simply constitutes a return of a portion of your purchase price. This is known as buying into a dividend.
You will recognize taxable gain or loss on a sale or redemption of your Shares, based on the difference, if any, between your tax basis in the Shares and the amount you receive for them. This gain or loss will generally be capital gain or loss if you hold your Fund Shares as capital assets and will be long-term if you held your Shares for more than twelve months. Long-term capital gains are taxable to non-corporate U.S. shareholders at a maximum federal income tax rate of 15% through December 31, 2010. (To aid in computing your tax basis, you generally should retain your account statements for the periods during which you held Shares.) Additionally, any loss realized on a sale or redemption of Shares of the Fund may be disallowed under wash sale rules to the extent the Shares disposed of are replaced with other shares of the Fund within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the Shares are disposed of, such as pursuant to a dividend reinvestment in shares of the Fund. If disallowed, the loss will be reflected in an adjustment to the basis of the shares acquired.
Any loss realized on Shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends that were received on the Shares.
IRAs and Other Tax-Qualified Plans : One major exception to the preceding tax principles is that distributions on, and sales, exchanges and redemptions of, shares held in an IRA (or other tax-qualified plan) will not be currently taxable.
Backup Withholding: On the New Account Application Form, you will be asked to certify that your social security number or taxpayer identification number is correct and that you are not subject to backup withholding for failing to report income to the IRS. If you are subject to backup withholding or you did not certify your taxpayer identification number, the IRS requires each Fund to withhold a percentage of any dividend and redemption or exchange proceeds. The current withholding rate is 28%. Each Fund reserves the right to reject any application that does not include a certified social security or taxpayer identification number.
U.S. Tax Treatment of Foreign Shareholders: Nonresident aliens, foreign corporations and other foreign investors in a Fund will generally be exempt from U.S. federal income tax on Fund distributions attributable to net capital gains, and, for distributions attributable to Fund taxable years beginning before January 1, 2008, net short-term capital gains, of a Fund. Tax may apply to such capital gain distributions, however, if the recipients investment in a Fund is connected to a trade or business of the recipient in the United States or if the recipient is present in the United States for 183 days or more in a year and certain other conditions are met.
Fund distributions attributable to other categories of Fund (and underlying investment company) income, such as dividends from portfolio companies, will generally be subject to a 30% withholding tax when paid to foreign shareholders. The withholding tax may, however, be reduced (and, in some cases, eliminated) under an applicable tax treaty between the United States and a shareholders country of residence or incorporation, provided that the shareholder furnishes the Fund with a properly completed Form W-8BEN to establish entitlement for these treaty benefits. Also, for Fund taxable years beginning before January 1, 2008, Fund distributions attributable to U.S.-source interest income of the Fund will be exempt from U.S. federal income tax.
All foreign investors should consult their own tax advisors regarding the tax consequences in their country of residence of an investment in a Fund.
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State and Local Taxes: Shareholders may also be subject to state and local taxes on distributions and redemptions. Shareholders should consult their advisers regarding the tax status of distributions in their state and locality.
The foregoing is only a summary of certain tax considerations under current law, which may be subject to change in the future. Shareholders who are nonresident aliens, foreign trusts or estates, or foreign corporations or partnerships, may be subject to different United States federal income tax treatment. You should consult your tax adviser for further information regarding federal, state, local and/or foreign tax consequences relevant to your specific situation.
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NO PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS NOT CONTAINED IN THIS PROSPECTUS OR IN THE FUNDS STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE, IN CONNECTION WITH THE OFFERING MADE BY THIS PROSPECTUS AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH REPRESENTATIONS MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE COMPANY OR ITS DISTRIBUTOR. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFERING BY THE COMPANY OR BY THE DISTRIBUTOR IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH OFFERING MAY NOT LAWFULLY BE MADE.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT ABUNDANCE TECHNOLOGIES FAMILY OF FUNDS
This Prospectus contains important information you should know before you invest. Read it carefully and keep it for future reference. More information about the Funds is available free of charge, upon request, including:
Annual/Semi-Annual Reports
These reports contain additional information about the Funds investments, describe the Funds performance, list portfolio holdings, and discuss recent market conditions and economic trends. The Annual Report includes investment strategies that significantly affected the Funds performance during the last fiscal year.
Statement of Additional Information (SAI)
An SAI, dated August__, 2007 has been filed with the SEC. The SAI, which includes additional information about the Funds, may be obtained free of charge, along with the Annual and Semi-Annual Reports, by calling (800) - . The SAI, as supplemented from time to time, is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus (and is legally part of the Prospectus). The SAI is not available on the Advisers website but a copy may be obtained by calling (800) - .
Shareholder Inquiries
Representatives are available to discuss account balance information, mutual fund prospectuses, literature programs and services available. Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Eastern time) Monday-Friday. Call: (800) - .
Purchases and Redemptions
Call ( ) -
Written Correspondence
Street Address:
Abundance Technologies, Inc. Family of Funds
c/o PFPC Inc.
301 Bellevue Parkway
Wilmington, DE 19809
P.O. Box Address:
Abundance Technologies, Inc. Family of Funds
c/o PFPC Inc.
P.O. Box [ ]
Providence, RI 02940
Securities and Exchange Commission
You may also view and copy information about the Company and the Fund, including the SAI, by visiting the SECs Public Reference Room in Washington, DC or the EDGAR Database on the SECs Internet site at www.sec.gov. You may also obtain copies of fund documents by paying a duplicating fee and sending an electronic request to the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov, or by sending your written request and a duplicating fee to the SECs Public Reference Section, Washington, DC 20549-0102. You may obtain information on the operation of the public reference room by calling the SEC at 1-202-942-8090.
Investment Company Act File No. 811-05518
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SUBJECT TO COMPLETION
PRELIMINARY STATEMENT OF
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
DATED JUNE 1, 2007
THE INFORMATION IN THIS STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IS NOT COMPLETE AND MAY BE CHANGED. WE MAY NOT SELL THESE SECURITIES UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION IS EFFECTIVE. THIS STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL THESE SECURITIES AND IT IS NOT SOLICITING AN OFFER TO BUY THESE SECURITIES IN ANY STATE WHERE THE OFFER OR SALE IS NOT PERMITTED.
ABUNDANCE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. FAMILY OF FUNDS
of
The RBB Fund, Inc.
Institutional Class
Free Market U.S. Equity Fund
Free Market International Equity Fund
Free Market Fixed Income Fund
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
As dated August __, 2007
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) provides information about the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund and Free Market Fixed-Income Fund (each a Fund and collectively, the Funds). The Funds are series of The RBB Fund, Inc. (the Company). This information is in addition to the information contained in the Funds Prospectus dated August __, 2007 (the Prospectus). This SAI is not a prospectus. Copies of the Prospectus may be obtained free of charge by calling toll-free ( ) - .
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The Company is an open-end management investment company currently operating twenty-three separate investment portfolios. The Company is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, (the 1940 Act) and was organized as a Maryland corporation on February 29, 1988. This SAI pertains to Institutional Class shares representing interests in three diversified Funds, which are offered by the Prospectus. Abundance Technologies, Inc. (Abundance or the Adviser) serves as the investment adviser to the Funds.
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND LIMITATIONS OF THE FUNDS
Although the Funds invest primarily in shares of other registered investment companies, for temporary defensive purposes, the Funds may hold cash or invest in a variety of money market instruments, including U.S. Government securities, commercial paper, certificates of deposit, and bankers acceptances. When a Fund invests for temporary defensive purposes, it may do so without any percentage limitations. A Fund may not achieve its investment objective during periods when it has taken such a temporary defensive position.
The following information supplements that in the Prospectus for each Fund under Principle Investment Strategies Strategies:
U.S. Government Securities. Each Fund may invest in obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities that have remaining maturities not exceeding one year. Agencies and instrumentalities that issue or guarantee debt securities and that have been established or sponsored by the U.S. Government include the Export-Import Bank, the Federal Farm Credit System, the Federal home Loan Banks, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, the Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, the Federal Land Banks, and the Federal National Mortgage Association.
Bank Obligation. Each Fund may invest in obligations of U.S. banks (including certificates of deposit and bankers acceptances) and U.S. dollar-denominated obligations of U.S. subsidiaries and branches of foreign banks having total assets at the time of purchase in excess of $1 billion. Such banks must be members of the Federal deposit Insurance Corporation.
Commercial Paper. Commercial paper represents short-term unsecured promissory notes issued in bearer form by bank holding companies, corporations, and finance companies. The commercial paper purchased by the Funds consists of direct obligations of domestic issuers which, at the time of investment, are (i) rated P-1 by Moodys Investors Service, Inc. (Moodys) or A-1 by Standard & Poors Ratings Services (Standard & Poors), (ii) issued or guaranteed as to principal and interest by issuers or guarantors having an existing debt security rating of Aa or better by Moodys or AA or better by Standard & Poors, or (iii) securities which, if not rated, are, in the opinion of the Adviser, of an investment quality comparable to rated commercial paper in which the Funds may invest. See Appendix A for a description of Moodys and Standard & Poors rating categories.
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FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
The Funds have adopted the following fundamental investment limitations which may not be changed with respect to a Fund without the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the Fund outstanding shares (as defined in Section 2 (a) (42) of the 1940 Act). As used in this SAI and in the Prospectus, shareholder approval and a majority of the outstanding shares of a Fund means, with respect to the approval of an investment advisory agreement or a change in a fundamental investment limitation, the lesser of (1) 67% of the shares of the Fund represented at a meeting at which the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are present in person or by proxy, or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. Each Funds investment goals and strategies described in the Prospectus may be changed by the Companys Board of Directors without the approval of the Funds shareholders. Each Fund may not:
1. Borrow money or issue senior securities, except that the Fund may borrow from banks and enter into reverse repurchase agreements and the U.S. Free Market Fixed Income Fund may enter into dollar rolls (including mortgage dollar rolls), for temporary purposes in amounts up to one-third of the value of the Funds total assets at the time of such borrowing and provided that, for any borrowing with respect to the Fund, there is at least 300% asset coverage for borrowings of the Fund. A Fund may not mortgage, pledge or hypothecate any assets, except in connection with any such borrowing and then in amounts not in excess of one-third of the value of the Funds total assets at the time of such borrowing. Securities held in escrow or separate accounts in connection with a Funds investment practices are not considered to be borrowings or deemed to be pledged for purposes of this limitation.
2. Issue any senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act.
3. Act as underwriter of securities within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), except insofar as the Fund might be deemed to be an underwriter upon disposition of certain portfolio securities acquired within the limitation on purchases of restricted securities.
4. Purchase or sell real estate (including real estate limited partnership interests), provided that the Fund may invest: (a) in securities secured by real estate or interests therein or issued by companies that invest in real estate or interests therein; or (b) in real estate investment trusts.
5. Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts, except that to the extent consistent with its investment policies and restrictions, the Fund may deal in forward foreign exchanges between currencies of the different countries in which it may invest and purchase and sell stock index and currency options, stock index futures, financial futures and currency futures contracts and related options on such futures.
6. Make loans, except through loans portfolio instruments and repurchase agreements, provided that for purposes of this restriction the acquisition of bonds, debentures or other debt instruments or interests therein and investment in government obligations, loan participations and assignments, short-term commercial paper, certificates of deposit and bankers acceptances shall not be deemed to be the making of a loan.
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7. Invest 25% or more of its total assets, taken at market value at the time of each investment, in the securities of issuers in any particular industry (excluding the U.S. Government and its agencies and instrumentalities).
8. Purchase the securities of any one issuer, other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities, if immediately after and as a result of such purchase, more than 5% of the value of the Funds total assets would be invested in the securities of such issuer, or more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer would be owned by the Fund, except that up to 25% of the value of the Funds total assets may be invested without regard to such limitations.
For purposes of Investment Limitation No. 1, collateral arrangements with respect to, if applicable, the writing of options, futures contracts, options on futures contracts, forward currency contracts and collateral arrangements with respect to short sales and initial and variation margin are not deemed to be a pledge of assets and neither such arrangements nor the purchase or sale of futures or related options are deemed to be the issuance of a senior security for purposes of Investment Limitation No. 2.
Securities held by the Funds generally may not be purchased from. sold or loaned to the Adviser or its affiliates or any of their directors, officers or employees, acting as principal, unless pursuant to a rule or exemptive order under the 1940 Act.
If a percentage restriction under one of the Funds investment policies or limitations is adhered to at the time a transaction is effected, later changes in percentages resulting from changing values will not be considered a violation (except with respect to any restrictions that may apply to borrowings or senior securities by the Fund.)
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND PRACTICES OF UNDERLYING INVESTMENT COMPANIES AND RELATED RISKS
The underlying investment companies in which the Funds invest have their own investment objectives, policies, practices, and techniques, any one or all of which may subject their assets to varying degrees of risk. In addition, as a shareholder of another investment company, each Fund would bear, along with other shareholders, its pro rata portion of that companys expenses, including advisory and administrative fees. These expenses would be in addition to the advisory and other expenses that the Fund bears directly in connection with its own operations. Therefore, it may be more costly for a Fund to own shares of another investment company than to own directly the underlying securities owned by such company. Investment companies in which the Funds may invest also may impose a sales or distribution charge in connection with the purchase or redemption of their shares and other types of commissions or charges. Such charges will be payable by the Funds and, therefore, will be borne by shareholders. The underlying investment companies in which each Fund invests may purchase securities of affiliated and unaffiliated unregistered money market funds.
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Set forth below is additional information with respect to the types of securities and instrument techniques of the underlying investment companies and the risks involved in certain of these practices and techniques.
Asset-Backed Securities. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may invest in asset-backed securities, which represent participations in, or are secured by and payable from, pools of assets such as motor vehicle installment sale contracts, installment loan contracts, leases of various types of real and personal property, receivables from revolving credit (credit card) agreements and other categories of receivables. Asset-backed securities may also be collateralized by a portfolio of U.S. Government securities, but are not direct obligations of the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities. Such asset pools are securitized through the use of privately-formed trusts or special purpose corporations. Payments or distributions of principal and interest on asset-backed securities may be guaranteed up to certain amounts and for a certain time period by a letter of credit or a pool insurance policy issued by a financial institution unaffiliated with the trust or corporation, or other credit enhancements may be present; however privately issued obligations collateralized by a portfolio of privately issued asset-backed securities do not involve any government-related guarantee or insurance. In addition, asset-backed securities generally do not have the benefit of a security interest in collateral that is comparable to mortgage assets. See Mortgage-Backed Securities.
Corporate Obligations. The Free Market Fixed Income Funds underlying investment companies may invest in debt obligations, such as bonds and debentures, issued by corporations and other business organizations whose commercial paper is rated at the time of purchase A-1 by Standard & Poors or Prime-1 by Moodys. If the issuers commercial paper is unrated then the debt securities must be rated AA or Aa2 or better. See Appendix A to this SAI for a description of corporate debt ratings. An issuer of debt obligations may default on its obligation to pay interest and repay principal. Also, changes in the financial strength of an issuer or changes in the credit rating of a security may affect its value.
Convertible Securities and Preferred Stocks. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may invest in convertible securities. A convertible security is a bond, debenture, note, preferred stock or other security that may be converted into or exchanged for a prescribed amount of common stock of the same or a different issuer within a particular period of time at a specified price or formula. A convertible security entitles the holder to receive interest paid or accrued on debt or the dividend paid on preferred stock until the convertible security matures or is redeemed, converted or exchanged. Before conversion, convertible securities have characteristics similar to nonconvertible debt securities in that they ordinarily provide a stable stream of income with generally higher yields than those of common stocks of the same or similar issuers. Convertible securities rank senior to common stock in a corporations capital structure but are usually subordinated to comparable nonconvertible securities. While no securities investment is completely without risk, investments in convertible securities generally entail less risk than the corporations common stock, although the extent to which such risk is reduced depends in large measure upon the degree to which the convertible security sells above its value as a fixed income security. Convertible securities have unique investment
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characteristics in that they generally: (1) have higher yields than common stocks, but lower yields than comparable non-convertible securities; (2) are less subject to fluctuation in value than the underlying stock since they have fixed income characteristics; and (3) provide the potential for capital appreciation if the market price of the underlying common stock increases.
The value of a convertible security is a function of its investment value (determined by its yield in comparison with the yields of other securities of comparable maturity and quality that do not have a conversion privilege) and its conversion value (the securitys worth, at market value, if converted into the underlying common stock). The investment value of a convertible security is influenced by changes in interest rates, with investment value declining as interest rates increase and increasing as interest rates decline. The credit standing of the issuer and other factors also may have an effect on the convertible securitys investment value. The conversion value of a convertible security is determined by the market price of the underlying common stock. If the conversion value is low relative to the investment value, the price of the convertible security is governed principally by its investment value. Generally the conversion value decreases as the convertible security approaches maturity. To the extent the market price of the underlying common stock approaches or exceeds the conversion price, the price of the convertible security will be increasingly influenced by its conversion value. A convertible security generally will sell at a premium over its conversion value by the extent to which investors place value on the right to acquire the underlying common stock while holding a fixed income security.
A convertible security might be subject to redemption at the option of the issuer at a price established in the convertible securitys governing instrument. If a convertible security held by a Fund is called for redemption, that Fund will be required to permit the issuer to redeem the security, convert it into the underlying common stock or sell it to a third party.
Preferred stocks are securities that represent an ownership interest in a company and provide their owner with claims on the companys earnings and assets prior to the claims of owners of common stocks but after those of bond owners. Preferred stocks in which the Funds may invest include sinking fund, convertible, perpetual fixed and adjustable rate (including auction rate) preferred stocks. There is no minimum credit rating applicable to a Funds investment in preferred stocks and securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stock.
Depository Arrangements . To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may invest in American Depository Receipts (ADRs). ADRs are receipts typically issued by a U.S. bank or trust company evidencing ownership of the underlying foreign securities. ADRs are denominated in U.S. dollars. They are publicly traded on exchanges or over-the-counter in the United States.
The underlying investment companies may invest in both sponsored and unsponsored ADR programs. There are certain risks associated with investments in unsponsored ADR programs. Because the non-U.S. securities issuer does not actively participate in the creation of the ADR program, the underlying agreement for service and payment will be between the depository and the shareholder. The company issuing the stock underlying the ADR pays nothing to establish the unsponsored facility because fees for ADR issuance and cancellation are paid by brokers. Investors directly bear the expenses associated with certificate transfer, custody and dividend payment.
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In an unsponsored ADR program, there also may be several depositories with no defined legal obligations to the non-U.S. company. The duplicate depositories may lead to marketplace confusion because there would be no central source of information for buyers, sellers and intermediaries. The efficiency of centralization gained in a sponsored program can greatly reduce the delays in delivery of dividends and annual reports.
The underlying investment companies may also invest in Holding Company Depository Receipts (HOLDRS). HOLDRS represent trust-issued receipts that represent individual and undivided beneficial ownership interests in the common stock or ADRs of specific companies in a particular industry, sector or group.
The underlying investment companies of the Free Market International Equity Fund may also invest in European Depository Receipts (EDRs), International Depository Receipts (IDRs) and Global Depository Receipts (GDRs). These are receipts issued by a non-U.S. financial institution evidencing ownership of underlying foreign or U.S. securities and are usually denominated in foreign currencies. They may not be denominated in the same currency as the securities they represent. Generally, EDRs, GDRs and IDRs are designed for use in the foreign securities markets. Investments in EDRs, GDRs and IDRs involve certain risks not typically involved in purely domestic investments, including currency exchange risk. These risks are set forth under Foreign Securities in this SAI.
Dollar Rolls. To the extent consistent with its investment policies and limitations, the Free Market Fixed Income Funds underlying investment companies may enter into dollar rolls in which the investment companies sell fixed income securities for delivery in the current month and simultaneously contract to repurchase substantially similar (same type, coupon and maturity) securities on a specified future date.
During the roll period, an investment company would forgo principal and interest paid on such securities. However, the investment company would be compensated by the difference between the current sales price and the forward price for the future purchase, as well as by the interest earned on the cash proceeds of the initial sale. The return on dollar rolls may be negatively impacted by fluctuations in interest rates. For additional information on dollar roll transactions, see the section entitled Mortgage Dollar Roll Transactions in this SAI.
Equity Markets. The underlying investment companies of the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund and Free Market International Equity Fund invest primarily in equity markets at all times. Equity markets can be highly volatile, so that investing in the underlying investment companies involves substantial risk. As a result, investing in the underlying investment companies involves the risk of loss of capital.
European Currency Unification. On January 1, 1999, the European Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) introduced a new single currency called the euro. The euro has replaced the national currencies of the following member countries: Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain. In
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addition, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Bulgaria and Romania are members of the EMU but will not adopt the euro as their new currency until they can show that their economies have converged with the economies of the euro zone
The new European Central Bank has control over each member countrys monetary policies. Therefore, the member countries no longer control their own monetary policies by directing independent interest rates for their currencies. The national governments of the participating countries, however, have retained the authority to set tax and spending policies and public debt levels.
The change to the euro as a single currency is new and untested. The elimination of currency risk among EMU countries may change the economic environment and behavior of investors, particularly in European markets, but the impact of those changes cannot be assessed at this time. It is not possible to predict the long-term impact of the euro on currency values or on the business or financial condition of European countries and issuers, and issuers in other regions, whose securities the underlying investment companies of the Free Market International Equity Fund may hold, or the impact, if any, on such underlying investment companies performance. In addition, the introduction of the euro presents other unique uncertainties, including the fluctuation of the euro relative to non-euro currencies; whether the interest rate, tax and labor regimes of European countries participating in the euro will converge over time; and whether the conversion of the currencies of other countries that now are or may in the future become members of the European Union (EU) will have an impact on the euro. Also, it is possible that the euro could be abandoned in the future by countries that have already adopted its use. In May and June 2005, voters in France and the Netherlands rejected ratification of the EU Constitution causing some other countries to postpone moves toward ratification. These or other events, including political and economic developments, could cause market disruptions, and could adversely affect the value of securities held by the Fund.
Foreign Securities. The underlying investment companies of the Free Market International Equity Fund and Free Market Fixed Income Fund may invest in securities issued by foreign companies. Investments in foreign securities involve higher costs than investments in U.S. securities, including higher transaction costs as well as the imposition of additional taxes by foreign governments. In addition, foreign investments may include additional risks associated with currency exchange rates, less complete financial information about the issuers, less market liquidity and political stability. Volume and liquidity in most foreign bond markets are less than in the United States and, at times, volatility or price can be greater than in the United States. Future political and economic information, the possible imposition of withholding taxes on interest income, the possible seizure or nationalization of foreign holdings, the possible establishment of exchange controls, or the adoption of other governmental restrictions, might adversely affect the payment of principal and interest on foreign obligations. Inability to dispose of securities due to settlement problems could result either in losses to an underlying investment company due to subsequent declines in value of the securities, or, if the underlying investment company has entered into a contract to sell the securities, could result in possible liability to the purchaser. Individual foreign economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth or gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position.
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Fixed commissions on foreign securities exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on U.S. exchanges. There is generally less government supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, dealers and listed companies than in the United States.
Settlement mechanics may be slower or less reliable than within the United States, thus increasing the risk of delayed settlements of portfolio transactions or loss of certificates for portfolio securities. Foreign markets also have different clearance and settlement procedures, and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions, making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Such delays in settlement could result in temporary periods when a portion of the assets of an underlying investment company is uninvested and no return is earned thereon. The inability of an underlying investment company to make intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause the underlying investment company to miss attractive investment opportunities.
Although the underlying investment companies may invest in securities denominated in foreign currencies, each investment company values its securities and other assets in U.S. dollars. As a result, the NAV of an underlying investment companys shares may fluctuate with U.S. dollar exchange rates as well as the price changes of the underlying investment companys securities in the various local markets and currencies. Thus, an increase in the value of the U.S. dollar compared to the currencies in which an underlying investment company makes its investments could reduce the effect of increases and magnify the effect of decreases in the price of the underlying investment companys securities in their local markets. Conversely, a decrease in the value of the U.S. dollar may have the opposite effect of magnifying the effect of increases and reducing the effect of decreases in the prices of an underlying investment companys securities in its foreign markets. In addition to favorable and unfavorable currency exchange rate developments, an underlying investment company is subject to the possible imposition of exchange control regulations or freezes on convertibility of currency.
The underlying investment companies may invest in obligations of foreign branches of U.S. banks (Eurodollars) and U.S. branches of foreign banks (Yankee dollars) as well as foreign branches of foreign banks. These investments involve risks that are different from investments in securities of U.S. banks, including potential unfavorable political and economic developments, different tax provisions, seizure of foreign deposits, currency controls, interest limitations or other governmental restrictions which might affect payment of principal or interest. The underlying investment companies may also invest in debt securities issued or guaranteed by foreign governments, including Yankee bonds, which are issued by foreign governments and their agencies and foreign corporations, but pay interest in U.S. dollars and are typically issued in the United States.
Forward Commitment and When-Issued Transactions. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis. These transactions involve a commitment by an underlying investment company to purchase or sell securities at a future date (ordinarily one or two months later). The price of the underlying
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securities (usually expressed in terms of yield) and the date when the securities will be delivered and paid for (the settlement date) are fixed at the time the transaction is negotiated. When-issued purchases and forward commitments are negotiated directly with the other party, and such commitments are not traded on exchanges.
When-issued purchases and forward commitments enable an underlying investment company to lock in what is believed by the underlying investment adviser to be an attractive price or yield on a particular security for a period of time, regardless of future changes in interest rates. For instance, in periods of rising interest rates and falling prices, an underlying investment company might sell securities it owns on a forward commitment basis to limit its exposure to falling prices. In periods of falling interest rates and rising prices, an underlying investment company might sell securities it owns and purchase the same or a similar security on a when-issued or forward commitment basis, thereby obtaining the benefit of currently higher yields. When-issued securities or forward commitments involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines prior to the settlement date.
The value of securities purchased on a when-issued or forward commitment basis and any subsequent fluctuations in their value are reflected in the computation of an underlying investment companys NAV starting on the date of the agreement to purchase the securities, and the underlying investment company is subject to the rights and risks of ownership of the securities on that date. An underlying investment company does not earn interest on the securities it has committed to purchase until they are paid for and delivered on the settlement date. When an underlying investment company makes a forward commitment to sell securities it owns, the proceeds to be received upon settlement are included in the underlying investment companys assets. Fluctuations in the market value of the underlying securities are not reflected in the underlying investment companys NAV as long as the commitment to sell remains in effect. Settlement of when-issued purchases and forward commitment transactions generally takes place within two months after the date of the transaction, but an underlying investment company may agree to a longer settlement period.
An underlying investment company generally will make commitments to purchase securities on a when-issued basis or to purchase or sell securities on a forward commitment basis only with the intention of completing the transaction and actually purchasing or selling the securities. If deemed advisable as a matter of investment strategy, however, an underlying investment company may dispose of or renegotiate a commitment after it is entered into. An underlying investment company also may sell securities it has committed to purchase before those securities are delivered to the underlying investment company on the settlement date. An underlying investment company may realize a capital gain or loss in connection with these transactions, and its distributions from any net realized capital gains will be taxable to shareholders.
When an underlying investment company purchases securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis, the investment company or its custodian will maintain in a segregated account cash or liquid securities having a value (determined daily) at least equal to the amount of the underlying investment companys purchase commitments. These procedures
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are designed to ensure that the underlying investment company will maintain sufficient assets at all times to cover its obligations under when-issued purchases and forward commitments.
Forward Foreign Currency Transactions. The Free Market International Equity and Free Market Fixed Income Funds underlying investment companies may, to the extent that they invest in foreign securities, enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts in order to protect against uncertainty in the level of future foreign currency exchange rates. The underlying investment companies will conduct their foreign currency exchange transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at the spot rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market, or through entering into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies. A forward foreign currency exchange contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days (usually less than one year) from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the contract. These contracts are traded in the interbank market conducted directly between traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. A forward contract generally has no deposit requirement, and no commissions are charged at any stage for trades. Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a fee for conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference (the spread) between the price at which they are buying and selling various currencies.
The underlying investment companies generally are permitted to enter into forward contracts under two circumstances. First, when an underlying investment company enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security quoted or denominated in a foreign currency, it may desire to lock in the U.S. dollar price of the security. By entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale, for a fixed number of U.S. dollars, of the amount of foreign currency involved in the underlying security transactions, the underlying investment company will be able to insulate itself from a possible loss resulting from a change in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the subject foreign currency during the period between the date on which the security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received.
Second, when the investment adviser to an underlying investment company believes that the currency of a particular foreign country may suffer a substantial decline against the U.S. dollar, it may cause the investment company to enter a forward contract to sell, for a fixed U.S. dollar amount, the amount of foreign currency approximating the value of some or all of the investment companys portfolio securities quoted or denominated in such foreign currency. The precise matching of the forward contract amounts and the value of the securities involved will not generally be possible since the future value of such securities in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market movements in the value of those securities between the date the forward contract is entered into and the date it matures.
The underlying investment companies may engage in cross-hedging by using forward contracts in one currency to hedge against fluctuations in the value in securities denominated or quoted in a different currency if the investment adviser determines that there is a pattern of correlation between the two currencies. Cross-hedging may also include entering into a forward transaction involving two foreign currencies, using one foreign currency as a proxy for the U.S. dollar to hedge against variations in the other U.S. foreign currency, if the investment adviser determines that there is a pattern of correlation between the proxy currency and the U.S. dollar.
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The underlying investment companies will not enter into forward contracts to sell currency or maintain a net exposure to such contracts if the consummation of such contracts would obligate the investment company to deliver an amount of foreign currency in excess of the value of the investment companys respective portfolio securities or other assets quoted or denominated in that currency. At the consummation of the forward contract, an underlying investment company may either make delivery of the foreign currency or terminate its contractual obligation by purchasing an offsetting contract obligating it to purchase at the same maturity date, the same amount of such foreign currency. If the an underlying investment company chooses to make delivery of foreign currency, it may be required to obtain such delivery through the sale of portfolio securities quoted or denominated in such currency or through conversion of other assets of the Fund into such currency. If an underlying investment company engages in an offsetting transaction, the underlying investment company will realize a gain or a loss to the extent that there has been a change in forward contract prices. Closing purchase transactions with respect to forward contracts are usually effected with the currency trader who is party to the original forward contract.
The underlying investment companies transactions in forward contracts generally will be limited to those described above. Of course, the underlying investment companies are not required to enter into such transactions with regard to their foreign currency quoted or denominated securities, and the investment companies will not do so unless deemed appropriate by their respective investment advisers.
When entering into a forward contract, an underlying investment company will segregate either cash or liquid securities quoted or denominated in any currency in an amount equal to the value of the underlying investment companys total assets committed to the consummation of forward currency exchange contracts which require the underlying investment company to purchase a foreign currency. If the value of the segregated securities declines, additional cash or securities will be segregated by the underlying investment company on a daily basis so that the value of the segregated securities will equal the amount of the underlying investment companys commitments with respect to such contracts.
This method of protecting the value of an underlying investment companys portfolio securities against a decline in the value of a currency does not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the securities. It simply establishes a rate of exchange which can be achieved at some future point in time. The precise projection of short-term currency market movements is not possible, and short-term hedging provides a means of fixing the U.S. dollar value of only a portion of the underlying investment companys foreign assets. It also reduces any potential gain which may have otherwise occurred had the currency value increased above the settlement price of the contract.
While the underlying investment company may enter into forward contracts to seek to reduce currency exchange rate risks, transactions in such contracts involve certain other risks. Thus, while an underlying investment company may benefit from such transactions, unanticipated changes in currency prices may result in a poorer overall performance for the underlying investment company than if it had not engaged in any such transactions. Moreover,
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there may be imperfect correlation between the underlying investment companys portfolio holdings or securities quoted or denominated in a particular currency and forward contracts entered into by the underlying investment company. Such imperfect correlation may cause the underlying investment company to sustain losses, which will prevent the underlying investment company from achieving a complete hedge, or expose the underlying investment company to the risk of foreign exchange loss.
Forward contracts are subject to the risks that the counterparts to such contract will default on its obligations. Since a forward foreign currency exchange contract is not guaranteed by an exchange or clearing house, a default on the contract would deprive an underlying investment company of unrealized profits, transaction costs or the benefits of a currency hedge or force an underlying investment company to cover its purchase or sale commitments, if any, at the current market price.
The underlying investment companies foreign currency transactions (including related options, futures and forward contracts) may be limited by the requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code) for qualification as a regulated investment company.
Futures Contracts. A futures contract may generally be described as an agreement between two parties to buy and sell particular financial instruments for an agreed price during a designated month (or to deliver the final cash settlement price, in the case of a contract relating to an index or otherwise not calling for physical delivery at the end of trading in the contract). When interest rates are rising or securities prices are falling, an underlying investment company can seek to offset a decline in the value of its current portfolio securities through the sale of futures contracts. When interest rates are falling or securities prices are rising, an underlying investment company, through the purchase of futures contracts, can attempt to secure better rates or prices than might later be available in the market when it affects anticipated purchases.
To seek to increase total return or to hedge against changes in interest rates or securities prices, an underlying investment company may purchase and sell various kinds of futures contracts, and purchase and write call and put options on any of such futures contracts. An underlying investment company may also enter into closing purchase and sale transactions with respect to any of such contracts and options. The futures contracts may be based on various securities (such as U.S. government securities), securities indices, and any other financial instruments and indices. Generally an underlying investment company will engage in futures and related options transactions for bona fide hedging purposes as described below or for purposes of seeking to increase total return, in each case, only to the extent permitted by regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). All futures contracts entered into by an underlying investment company are traded on U.S. exchanges or boards of trade that are licensed and regulated by the CFTC or on foreign exchanges.
Positions taken in the futures markets are not normally held to maturity but are instead liquidated through offsetting transactions, which may result in a profit or a loss. While futures contracts on securities will usually be liquidated in this manner, an underlying investment company may instead make, or take, delivery of the underlying securities or currency whenever
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it appears economically advantageous to do so. A clearing corporation associated with the exchange on which futures on securities are traded guarantees that, if still open, the sale or purchase will be performed on the settlement date.
Hedging, by use of futures contracts, seeks to establish with more certainty than would otherwise be possible the effective price or rate of return on portfolio securities or securities that an underlying investment company proposes to acquire or the exchange rate of currencies in which portfolio securities are quoted or denominated. An underlying investment company may, for example, take a short position in the futures market by selling futures contracts to seek to hedge against an anticipated rise in interest rates or a decline in market prices that would adversely affect the value of the underlying investment companys portfolio securities. Such futures contracts may include contracts for the future delivery of securities held by an underlying investment company or securities with characteristics similar to those of the underlying investment companys portfolio securities. If, in the opinion of the investment adviser to an underlying investment company, there is a sufficient degree of correlation between price trends for an underlying investment companys portfolio securities and futures contracts based on other financial instruments, securities indices or other indices, the underlying investment company may also enter into such futures contracts as part of its hedging strategy. Although under some circumstances prices of securities in an underlying investment companys portfolio may be more or less volatile than prices of such futures contracts, the underlying investment adviser will attempt to estimate the extent of this volatility difference based on historical patterns and compensate for any such differential by having the underlying investment companys enter into a greater or lesser number of futures contracts or by seeking to achieve only a partial hedge against price changes affecting the underlying investment companys portfolio securities. When hedging of this character is successful, any depreciation in the value of portfolio securities will be substantially offset by appreciation in the value of the futures position. On the other hand, any unanticipated appreciation in the value of an underlying investment company portfolios securities would be substantially offset by a decline in the value of the futures position.
On other occasions, an underlying investment company may take a long position by purchasing futures contracts. This would be done, for example, when the underlying investment company anticipates the subsequent purchase of particular securities when it has the necessary cash, but expects the prices then available in the applicable market to be less favorable than prices that are currently available.
Restricted and Illiquid Securities. Each Funds underlying investment companies may not invest more than 15% of their respective net assets in illiquid securities, including securities that are illiquid by virtue of the absence of a readily available market or legal or contractual restrictions on resale. Illiquid securities include: repurchase agreements and time deposits with a notice or demand period of more than seven days; interest rate; currency and mortgage swaps; interest rate caps; floors and collars; municipal leases; certain restricted securities, such as those purchased in a private placement of securities, unless it is determined, based upon a review of the trading markets for a specific restricted security, that such restricted security is liquid; and certain over-the-counter options. Securities that have legal or contractual restrictions on resale but have a readily available market are not considered illiquid for purposes of this limitation.
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Mutual funds do not typically hold a significant amount of restricted or other illiquid securities because of the potential for delays on resale and uncertainty in valuation. Limitations on resale may have an adverse effect on the marketability of portfolio securities and a mutual fund might be unable to dispose of restricted or other illiquid securities promptly or at reasonable prices and might thereby experience difficulty in satisfying redemptions within seven days. A mutual fund might also have to register such restricted securities in order to dispose of them resulting in additional expense and delay. Adverse market conditions could impede such a public offering of securities.
Each underlying investment company may purchase securities which are not registered under the Securities Act but which may be sold to qualified institutional buyers in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act (Restricted Securities). These securities will not be considered illiquid so long as it is determined by the underlying investment adviser that an adequate trading market exists for the securities. This investment practice could have the effect of increasing the level of illiquidity in an underlying investment company during any period that qualified institutional buyers become uninterested in purchasing restricted securities.
The underlying investment adviser will monitor the liquidity of Restricted Securities held by an underlying investment company. In reaching liquidity decisions, the underlying investment adviser may consider, among others, the following factors: (1) the unregistered nature of the security; (2) the frequency of trades and quotes for the security; (3) the number of dealers wishing to purchase or sell the security and the number of other potential purchasers; (4) dealer undertakings to make a market in the security; and (5) the nature of the security and the nature of the marketplace trades (e.g., the time needed to dispose of the security, the method of soliciting offers and the mechanics of the transfer).
The purchase price and subsequent valuation of Restricted Securities normally reflect a discount from the price at which such securities trade when they are not restricted, since the restriction makes them less liquid. The amount of the discount from the prevailing market price is expected to vary depending upon the type of security, the character of the issuer, the party who will bear the expenses of registering the Restricted Securities and prevailing supply and demand conditions.
Indexed Securities. To the extent consistent with its investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may invest in indexed securities whose value is linked to securities indices. Most such securities have values which rise and fall according to the change in one or more specified indices, and may have characteristics similar to direct investments in the underlying securities. Depending on the index, such securities may have greater volatility than the market as a whole. An underlying investment company may also invest in exchange-traded funds, which generally track their related indices and trade like an individual stock throughout the trading day. For example, an underlying investment company may invest in Standard & Poors Depositary Receipts (commonly referred to as Spiders), which are exchange-traded shares of a closed-end investment company that are designed to replicate the price performance and dividend yield of the Standard & Poors 500 ® Composite Stock Price Index.
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Initial Public Offerings. To the extent consistent with its investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may purchase stock in an initial public offering (IPO). An IPO is a companys first offering of stock to the public. Risks associated with IPOs may include considerable fluctuation in the market value of IPO shares due to certain factors, such as the absence of a prior public market, unseasoned trading, a limited number of shares available for trading, lack of information about the issuer and limited operating history. The purchase of IPO shares may involve high transaction costs. When an underlying investment companys asset base is small, a significant portion of the underlying investment companys performance could be attributable to investments in IPOs, because such investments would have a magnified impact on the underlying investment company. As an underlying investment companys assets grow, the effect of the underlying investment companys investments in IPOs on the underlying investment companys performance probably will decline, which could reduce the underlying investment companys performance. Because of the price volatility of IPO shares, an underlying investment company may choose to hold IPO shares for a very short period of time. This may increase the turnover of the underlying investment companys portfolio and may lead to increased expenses to the underlying investment company, such as commissions and transaction costs. In addition, the underlying investment advisers cannot guarantee continued access to IPOs.
Inflation-Protected Securities. The Free Market Fixed Income Funds underlying investment companies may invest in inflation-protected securities issued by the U.S. Treasury, known as TIPs or Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities, which are debt securities whose principal and interest payments are adjusted for inflation and interest is paid on the adjusted amount. The inflation adjustment, which is typically applied monthly to the principal of the bond, follows a designated inflation index, such as the consumer price index (CPI). A fixed coupon rate is applied to the inflation-adjusted principal so that as inflation rises, both the principal value and the interest payments increase. This can provide investors with a hedge against inflation, as it helps preserve the purchasing power of your investment.
Inflation-protected securities normally will decline in price when real interest rates rise. (A real interest rate is calculated by subtracting the inflation rate from a nominal interest rate. For example, if a 10-year Treasury note is yielding 5% and inflation is 2%, the real interest rate is 3%.) If inflation is negative, the principal and income of an inflation-protected security will decline and could result in losses for the Funds underlying investment companies.
Any increase in principal for an inflation-protected security resulting from inflation adjustments is considered by IRS regulations to be taxable income in the year it occurs. For direct holders of an inflation-protected security, this means that taxes must be paid on principal adjustments even though these amounts are not received until the bond matures. By contrast, an underlying investment company holding these securities distributes both interest income and the income attributable to principal adjustments in the form of cash or reinvested shares, which are taxable to shareholders.
Interest Rate Swaps, Floors and Caps and Currency Swaps. The Free Market Fixed-Income Funds underlying investment companies may enter into interest rate swaps and may purchase interest rate floors or caps. An underlying investment company will typically use
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interest rate swaps to preserve a return on a particular investment or portion of its portfolio or to shorten the effective duration of its portfolio investments. Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by the underlying investment company with another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, such as an exchange of fixed rate payments for floating rate payments. The purchase of an interest rate floor or cap entitles the purchaser to receive payments of interest on a notional principal amount from the seller, to the extent the specified index falls below (floor) or exceeds (cap) a predetermined interest rate. The Free Market International Equity Fund and Free Market Fixed Income Fund may enter into currency swaps, which involve the exchange of the rights of the underlying investment company and another party to make or receive payments in specific currencies.
An underlying investment company will only enter into interest rate swaps or interest rate floor or cap transactions on a net basis, i.e. the two payment streams are netted out, with the underlying investment company receiving or paying, as the case may be, only the net amount of the two payments. In contrast, currency swaps usually involve the delivery of the entire principal value of one designated currency in exchange for the other designated currency.
The net amount of the excess, if any, of an underlying investment companys obligations over its entitlements with respect to each interest rate or currency swap will be accrued on a daily basis, and an amount of liquid assets having an aggregate net asset value at least equal to such accrued excess will be segregated by the underlying investment company.
If there is a default by the other party to such transaction, the underlying investment company will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. The swap market has grown substantially in recent years, with a large number of banks and investment banking firms acting both as principals and as agents utilizing standardized swap documentation. As a result, the swap market has become relatively liquid in comparison with markets for other similar instruments which are traded in the Interbank market.
Lending of Portfolio Securities. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may lend their portfolio securities to financial institutions provided that (1) the loan is continuously secured by collateral consisting of U.S. Government securities or cash or cash equivalents maintained on a daily mark-to-market basis in an amount at least equal to the current market value of the securities loaned; (2) the underlying investment company may at any time call the loan and obtain the return of the securities loaned; (3) the underlying investment company will receive any interest or dividends paid on the loaned securities; and (4) the aggregate market value of the securities loaned will not at any time exceed one-third of the total assets of the underlying investment company. Such loans would involve risk of delay in receiving additional collateral in the event the value of the collateral decreased below the value of the securities loaned or risk of delay in recovering the securities loaned or even loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially.
Loan Participations . The Free Market Fixed-Income Funds underlying investment companies may purchase participations in commercial loans. Such indebtedness may be secured or unsecured. Loan participations typically represent direct participation in a loan to a corporate borrower, and generally are offered by banks or other financial institutions or lending syndicates.
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An underlying investment company may participate in such syndications, or can buy part of a loan, becoming a part lender. When purchasing loan participations, the underlying investment company assumes the credit risk associated with the corporate borrower and may assume the credit risk associated with an interposed bank or other financial intermediary. The participation interests in which the Fund intends to invest may not be rated by any nationally recognized rating service.
A loan is often administered by an agent bank acting as agent for all holders. The agent bank administers the terms of the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. In addition, the agent bank is normally responsible for the collection of principal and interest payments from the corporate borrower and the apportionment of these payments to the credit of all institutions which are parties to the loan agreement. Unless, under the terms of the loan or other indebtedness, the underlying investment company has direct recourse against the corporate borrower, the underlying investment company may have to rely on the agent bank or other financial intermediary to apply appropriate credit remedies against a corporate borrower.
Purchases of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend primarily upon the creditworthiness of the corporate borrower for payment of principal and interest. If the underlying investment company does not receive scheduled interest or principal payments on such indebtedness, the underlying investment companys share price and yield could be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured offer the underlying investment company more protection than an unsecured loan in the event of non-payment of scheduled interest or principal. However, there is no assurance that the liquidation of collateral from a secured loan would satisfy the corporate borrowers obligation, or that the collateral can be liquidated.
An underlying investment company invests in loan participations with credit quality comparable to that of issuers of its securities investments. Indebtedness of companies whose creditworthiness is poor involves substantially greater risks, and may be highly speculative. Some companies may never pay off their indebtedness, or may pay only a small fraction of the amount owed. Consequently, when investing in indebtedness of companies with poor credit, the underlying investment company bears a substantial risk of losing the entire amount invested.
Loans and other types of direct indebtedness may not be readily marketable and may be subject to restrictions on resale. In some cases, negotiations involved in disposing of indebtedness may require weeks to complete. Consequently, some indebtedness may be difficult or impossible to dispose of readily at what the underlying investment companys investment adviser believes to be a fair price.
Investments in loans through a direct assignment of the financial institutions interests with respect to the loan may involve additional risks to an underlying investment company. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the underlying investment company could become part owner of any collateral, and would bear the costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In addition, it is conceivable that under emerging legal theories of lender liability, an underlying investment company could be held liable as co-lender. It is unclear whether loans and other forms of direct indebtedness offer securities law protections against fraud and misrepresentation. In the absence of definitive regulatory guidance, an underlying investment company rely on its investment advisers research in an attempt to avoid situations where fraud or misrepresentation could adversely affect the Fund.
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Market Fluctuation. The market value of the investments of each underlying investment company, and thus each underlying investment companys NAV, will change in response to market conditions affecting the value of its portfolio securities. When interest rates decline, the value of fixed rate obligations can be expected to rise. Conversely, when interest rates rise, the value of fixed rate obligations can be expected to decline. In contrast, as interest rates on adjustable rate loans are reset periodically, yields on investments in such loans will gradually align themselves to reflect changes in market interest rates, causing the value of such investments to fluctuate less dramatically in response to interest rate fluctuations than would investments in fixed rate obligations.
Micro Cap, Small Cap and Mid Cap Stocks. Securities of companies with micro, small and mid-size capitalizations tend to be riskier than securities of companies with large capitalizations. This is because micro, small and mid cap companies typically have smaller product lines and less access to liquidity than large cap companies, and are therefore more sensitive to economic downturns. In addition, growth prospects of micro, small and mid cap companies tend to be less certain than large cap companies, and the dividends paid on micro, small and mid cap stocks are frequently negligible. Moreover, micro, small and mid cap stocks have, on occasion, fluctuated in the opposite direction of large cap stocks or the general stock market. Consequently, securities of micro, small and mid cap companies tend to be more volatile than those of large cap companies. The market for micro and small cap securities may be thinly traded and as a result, greater fluctuations in the price of micro and small cap securities may occur.
Mortgage-Backed Securities. The Free Market Fixed Income Funds underlying investment companies may invest in mortgage pass-through certificates and multiple-class pass-through securities, such as real estate mortgage investment conduits (REMIC) pass-through certificates and collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs).
Guaranteed mortgage pass-through securities represent participation interests in pools of residential mortgage loans and are issued by U.S. governmental or private lenders and guaranteed by the U.S. government or one of its agencies or instrumentalities, including but not limited to the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae), Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac). Ginnie Mae certificates are guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government for timely payment of principal and interest on the certificates. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac certificates are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. Fannie Mae certificates are guaranteed by Fannie Mae, a federally chartered and privately owned corporation, for full and timely payment of principal and interest on the certificates. Fannie Mae is authorized to borrow from the U.S. Treasury to meet its obligations. Freddie Mac certificates are guaranteed by Freddie Mac, a corporate instrumentality of the U.S. government, for timely payment of interest and the ultimate collection of all principal of the related mortgage loans.
CMOs and REMIC pass-through or participation certificates may be issued by, among others, U.S. government agencies and instrumentalities as well as private lenders. CMOs and
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REMIC certificates are issued in multiple classes and the principal of and interest on the mortgage assets may be allocated among the several classes of CMOs or REMIC certificates in various ways. Each class of CMOs or REMIC certificates, often referred to as a tranche, is issued at a specific adjustable or fixed interest rate and must be fully retired no later than its final distribution date. Generally, interest is paid or accrues on all classes of CMOs or REMIC certificates on a monthly basis.
Typically, CMOs are collateralized by Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac certificates but also may be collateralized by other mortgage assets such as whole loans or private mortgage pass-through securities. Debt service on CMOs is provided from payments of principal and interest on collateral of mortgaged assets and any reinvestment income thereon.
A REMIC is a CMO that qualifies for special tax treatment under the Code and invests in certain mortgages primarily secured by interests in real property and other permitted investments. Investors may purchase regular and residual interest shares of beneficial interest in REMIC trusts.
An underlying investment company may invest in mortgage-backed securities issued by trusts or other entities formed or sponsored by private originators of and institutional investors in mortgage loans and other non-governmental entities (or representing custodial arrangements administered by such institutions). These private originators and institutions include savings and loan associations, mortgage bankers, commercial banks, insurance companies, investment banks and special purpose subsidiaries of the foregoing.
Privately issued mortgage-backed securities are generally backed by pools of conventional (i.e., non-government guaranteed or insured) mortgage loans. Since such mortgage-backed securities normally are not guaranteed by an entity having the credit standing of the Government National Mortgage Association, Federal National Mortgage Association or the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation in order to receive a high quality rating from the rating organizations (e.g., S&Ps or Moodys), they often are structured with one or more types of credit enhancement. Such credit enhancement falls into two categories: (1) liquidity protection and (2) protection against losses resulting after default by a borrower and liquidation of the collateral (e.g., sale of a house after foreclosure). Liquidity protection refers to the payment of cash advances to holders of mortgage-backed securities when a borrower on an underlying mortgage fails to make its monthly payment on time. Protection against losses resulting after default and liquidation is designed to cover losses resulting when, for example, the proceeds of a foreclosure sale are insufficient to cover the outstanding amount on the mortgage. Such protection may be provided through guarantees, insurance policies or letters of credit, through various means of structuring the securities or through a combination of such approaches.
Examples of credit enhancement arising out of the structure of the transaction include senior-subordinated securities (multiple class securities with one or more classes entitled to receive payment before other classes, with the result that defaults on the underlying mortgages are borne first by the holders of the subordinated class), creation of spread accounts or reserve funds (where cash or investments are held in reserve against future losses) and over-collateralization (where the scheduled payments on the underlying mortgages in a pool exceed
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the amount required to be paid on the mortgage-backed securities). The degree of credit enhancement for a particular issue of mortgage-backed securities is based on the level of credit risk associated with the particular mortgages in the related pool. Losses on a pool in excess of anticipated levels could nevertheless result in losses to security holders since credit enhancement rarely covers every dollar owed on a pool.
Investing in mortgage-backed securities (such as those described above) involves certain risks, including the failure of a counter-party to meet its commitments, adverse interest rate changes and the effects of prepayments on mortgage cash flows. Further, the yield characteristics of mortgage-backed securities differ from those of traditional fixed income securities. The major differences typically include more frequent interest and principal payments (usually monthly), the adjustability of interest rates, and the possibility that prepayments of principal may be made substantially earlier than their final distribution dates.
Prepayment rates are influenced by changes in current interest rates and a variety of economic, geographic, social and other factors and cannot be predicted with certainty. Both adjustable rate mortgage loans and fixed rate mortgage loans may be subject to a greater rate of principal prepayments in a declining interest rate environment and to a lesser rate of principal prepayments in an increasing interest rate environment. Under certain interest rate and prepayment rate scenarios, a Fund may fail to recoup fully its investment in Mortgage-Backed Securities notwithstanding any direct or indirect governmental or agency guarantee. When a Fund reinvests amounts representing payments and unscheduled prepayments of principal, it may receive a rate of interest that is lower than the rate on existing adjustable rate mortgage pass-through securities. Thus, mortgage-backed securities, and adjustable rate mortgage pass-through securities in particular, may be less effective than other types of U.S. Government securities as a means of locking in interest rates.
Conversely, in a rising interest rate environment, a declining prepayment rate will extend the average life of many mortgage-backed securities. This possibility is often referred to as extension risk. Extending the average life of a mortgage-backed security increases the risk of depreciation due to future increases in market interest rates. The market for certain types of mortgage-backed securities (i.e., certain CMOs) may not be liquid under all interest rate scenarios, which may prevent a Fund from selling such securities held in its portfolio at times or prices that it desires.
Different types of derivative debt securities are subject to different combinations of prepayment, extension and/or interest rate risk. Conventional mortgage pass-through securities and sequential pay CMOs are subject to all of these risks, but are typically not leveraged. Thus, the magnitude of exposure may be less than for more leveraged mortgage-backed securities.
Planned amortization class (PAC) and target amortization class (TAC) CMO bonds involve less exposure to prepayment, extension and interest rate risk than other mortgage-backed securities, provided that prepayment rates remain within expected prepayment ranges or collars. To the extent that prepayment rates remain within these prepayment ranges, the residual or support tranches of PAC and TAC CMOs assume the extra prepayment extension and interest rate risk associated with the underlying mortgage assets.
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An underlying investment company may invest in floating rate securities based on the Cost of Funds Index (COFI floaters), other lagging rate floating rate securities, floating rate securities that are subject to a maximum interest rate (capped floaters), and mortgage-backed securities purchased at a discount. The primary risks associated with these derivative debt securities are the potential extension of average life and/or depreciation due to rising interest rates.
Mortgage Dollar Roll Transactions. The Free Market Fixed Income Funds underlying investment companies may enter into mortgage dollar roll transactions in which the underlying investment company sells securities for delivery in the current month and simultaneously contracts with the same counterparty to repurchase similar (same type, coupon and maturity), but not identical securities on a specified future date.
During the roll period, the underlying investment company would forgo principal and interest paid on such securities. However, the underlying investment company would benefit to the extent of any difference between the price received for the securities sold and the lower forward price for the future purchase (often referred to as the drop) or fee income plus the interest on the cash proceeds of the securities sold until the settlement date of the forward purchase. Unless such benefits exceed the income, capital appreciation and gain or loss due to mortgage prepayments that would have been realized on the securities sold as part of the mortgage dollar roll, the use of this technique will diminish the investment performance of the underlying investment company compared with what such performance would have been without the use of mortgage dollar rolls. Any benefits derived from the use of mortgage dollar rolls may depend upon mortgage prepayment assumptions, which will be affected by changes in interest rates. There is no assurance that mortgage dollar rolls can be successfully employed. For additional information on dollar rolls, please refer to the section entitled Dollar Rolls in this SAI.
Options on Futures Contracts. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may purchase and sell various kinds of futures contracts, and purchase and write call and put options on any of such futures contracts. The acquisition of put and call options on futures contracts will give an underlying investment company the right (but not the obligation) for a specified price to sell or to purchase, respectively, the underlying futures contract at any time during the option period. As the purchaser of an option on a futures contract, an underlying investment company obtains the benefit of the futures position if prices move in a favorable direction but limits its risk of loss in the event of an unfavorable price movement to the loss of the premium and transaction costs.
The writing of a call option on a futures contract generates a premium, which may partially offset a decline in the value of an underlying investment companys assets. By writing a call option, an underlying investment company becomes obligated, in exchange for the premium, (upon exercise of the option) to sell a futures contract if the option is exercised, which may have a value higher than the exercise price. Conversely, the writing of a put option on a futures contract generates a premium, which may partially offset an increase in the price of securities that an underlying investment company intends to purchase. However, the underlying
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investment company becomes obligated (upon exercise of the option) to purchase a futures contract if the option is exercised, which may have a value lower than the exercise price. Thus, the loss incurred by an underlying investment company in writing options on futures is potentially unlimited and may exceed the amount of the premium received. The underlying investment company will incur transaction costs in connection with the writing of options on futures.
The holder or writer of an option on a futures contract may terminate its position by selling or purchasing an offsetting option on the same financial instrument. There is no guarantee that such closing transactions can be effected. An underlying investment companys ability to establish and close out positions on such options will be subject to the development and maintenance of a liquid market.
Transactions in futures contracts and options on futures involve brokerage costs, require margin deposits and, in some cases, may require the applicable underlying investment company to establish a segregated account consisting of cash or liquid securities in an amount equal to the underlying value of such contracts and options.
The use of futures contracts entails certain risks, including but not limited to the following: no assurance that futures contracts transactions can be offset at favorable prices; possible reduction of the underlying investment companys income due to the use of hedging; possible reduction in value of both the securities hedged and the hedging instrument; possible lack of liquidity due to daily limits on price fluctuations; imperfect correlation between the contract and the securities being hedged; and potential losses in excess of the amount initially invested in the futures contracts themselves. If the expectations of the adviser of the underlying investment company regarding movements in securities prices or interest rates are incorrect, the underlying investment company may have experienced better investment results without hedging. The use of futures contracts and options on futures contracts requires special skills in addition to those needed to select portfolio securities.
While transactions in futures contracts and options on futures may reduce certain risks, such transactions themselves entail certain other risks. Thus, while an underlying investment company may benefit from the use of futures and options on futures, unanticipated changes in interest rates or securities prices may result in a poorer overall performance for the underlying investment company than if it had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. In the event of an imperfect correlation between a futures position and a portfolio position which is intended to be protected, the desired protection may not be obtained and the underlying investment company may be exposed to risk of loss.
Perfect correlation between an underlying investment companys futures positions and portfolio positions will be impossible to achieve. There are no futures contracts based upon individual securities, except certain U.S. government securities. Other futures contracts available to hedge an underlying investment companys portfolio investments generally are limited to futures on various securities indices.
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Options on Securities and Securities Indices. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may each write covered call and secured put options on any securities in which it may invest or on any domestic stock indices based on securities in which it may invest. An underlying investment company may purchase and write such options on securities that are listed on national domestic securities exchanges or foreign securities exchanges or traded in the over-the-counter market. A call option written by an underlying investment company obligates the investment company 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, regardless of the market price of the security.
A put option written by an underlying investment company obligates the underlying investment company to purchase specified securities from the option holder at a specified price if the option is exercised at any time before the expiration date, regardless of the market price for the security. The purpose of writing such options is to generate additional income. However, in return for the option premium, the underlying investment company accepts the risk that it will be required to purchase the underlying securities at a price in excess of the securities market value at the time of purchase.
A written call option or put option may be covered by (i) maintaining cash or liquid securities, either of which may be quoted or denominated in any currency, in a segregated account noted on the underlying investment companys records or maintained by the underlying investment companys custodian with a value at least equal to the underlying investment companys obligation under the option, (ii) entering into an offsetting forward commitment and/or (iii) purchasing an offsetting option or any other option which, by virtue of its exercise price or otherwise, reduces the underlying investment companys net exposure on its written option position.
An underlying investment company may terminate its obligations under an exchange-traded call or put option by purchasing an option identical to the one it has written. Obligations under over-the-counter options may be terminated only by entering into an offsetting transaction with the counterparts to such option. Such purchases are referred to as closing purchase transactions and do not result in the ownership of an option. A closing purchase transaction will ordinarily be effected to realize a profit on an outstanding option, to prevent an underlying security from being called, to permit the sale of the underlying security or to permit the writing of a new option containing different terms on such underlying security. The cost of such a liquidation purchase plus transaction costs may be greater than the premium received upon the original option, in which event the underlying investment company will have incurred a loss in the transaction.
An underlying investment company may also write (sell) covered call and put options on any securities index composed of securities in which it may invest. Options on securities indices are similar to options on securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash settlement payments and does not involve the actual purchase or sale of securities. The amount of this settlement will be equal to the difference between the closing price of the of the securities index at the time of exercise and the exercise price of the option expressed in dollars, times a specified amount. 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.
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An underlying investment company may cover call options on a securities index by owning securities whose price changes are expected to be similar to those of the underlying index or by having an absolute and immediate right to acquire such securities without additional cash consideration (or for additional cash consideration held in a segregated account) upon conversion or exchange of other securities in its portfolio. An underlying investment company may also cover call and put options on a securities index by using the other methods described above.
An underlying investment company would normally purchase call options in anticipation of an increase, or put options in anticipation of a decrease (protective puts) in the market value of securities of the type in which it may invest. The purchase of a call option would entitle an underlying investment company, in return for the premium paid, to purchase specified securities at a specified price during the option period. An underlying investment company would ordinarily realize a gain on the purchase of a call option if, during the option period, the value of such securities exceeded the sum of the exercise price, the premium paid and transaction costs; otherwise the underlying investment company would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the call option. The purchase of a put option would entitle an underlying investment company, in exchange for the premium paid, to sell specified securities at a specified price during the option period. The purchase of protective puts is designed to offset or hedge against a decline in the market value of an underlying investment companys securities. Put options may also be purchased by an underlying investment company for the purpose of affirmatively benefiting from a decline in the price of securities which it does not own. An underlying investment company would ordinarily realize a gain if, during the option period, the value of the underlying securities decreased below the exercise price sufficiently to cover the premium and transaction costs; otherwise the underlying investment company would realize either no gain or a loss on the purchase of the put option. Gains and losses on the purchase of put options may be offset by countervailing changes in the value of the underlying portfolio securities.
An underlying investment company may purchase put and call options on securities indices for the same purposes as it may purchase options on securities. Options on securities indices are similar to options on securities, except that the exercise of securities index options requires cash payments and does not involve the actual purchase or sale of securities. In addition, securities index options are designed to reflect price fluctuations in a group of securities or segment of the securities market rather than price fluctuations in a single security.
Although an underlying investment company may use option transactions to seek to generate additional income and to seek to reduce the effect of any adverse price movement in the securities or currency subject to the option, they do involve certain risks that are different in some respects from investment risks associated with similar mutual funds, which do not engage in such activities. These risks include the following: for writing call options, the inability to effect closing transactions at favorable prices and the inability to participate in the appreciation of the underlying securities above the exercise price; for writing put options, the inability to effect closing transactions at favorable prices and the obligation to purchase the specified
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securities or to make a cash settlement on the securities index at prices which may not reflect current market values; and for purchasing call and put options, the possible loss of the entire premium paid. In addition, the effectiveness of hedging through the purchase or sale of securities index options, including options on the S&P 500 ® Index, will depend upon the extent to which price movements in the portion of the securities portfolio being hedged correlate with the price movements in the selected securities index. Perfect correlation may not be possible because the securities held or to be acquired by an underlying investment company may not exactly match the composition of the securities index on which options are written. If the forecasts of the adviser of the underlying investment company regarding movements in securities prices or interest rates are incorrect, an underlying investment companys investment results may have been better without the hedge transactions.
There is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on a domestic or foreign options exchange will exist for any particular exchange-traded option or at any particular time. If an underlying investment company is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to covered options it has written, the investment company will not be able to sell the underlying securities or dispose of assets held in a segregated account until the options expire or are exercised. Similarly, if an underlying investment company is unable to effect a closing sale transaction with respect to options it has purchased, it would have to exercise the options in order to realize any profit and will incur transaction costs upon the purchase or sale of underlying securities or currencies.
Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange include the following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest in certain options; (ii) restrictions may be imposed by an exchange on opening transactions or closing transactions or both; (iii) trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular classes or series of options; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations on an exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or the Options Clearing Corporation may not at all times be adequate to handle current trading volume; or (vi) one or more exchanges could, for economic or other reasons, decide or be compelled at some future date to discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options), in which event the secondary market on that exchange (or in that class or series of options) would cease to exist although outstanding options on that exchange that had been issued by the Options Clearing Corporation as a result of trades on that exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.
The writing and purchase of options is a highly specialized activity, which involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The successful use of options for hedging purposes depends in part on the advisers ability to predict future price fluctuations and the degree of correlation between the options and securities markets.
Pay-in-Kind Securities, Zero Coupon and Capital Appreciation Bonds. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may invest in pay-in-kind (PIK) securities. PIK securities may be debt obligations or preferred shares that provide the issuer with the option of paying interest or dividends on such obligations in cash or in the form of additional securities rather than cash.
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Similarly, zero coupon and capital appreciation bonds are debt securities issued or sold at a discount from their face value and do not entitle the holder to any periodic payment of interest prior to maturity or a specified date. The amount of the discount varies depending on the time remaining until maturity or cash payment date, prevailing interest rates, the liquidity of the security and the perceived credit quality of the issuer. These securities also may take the form of debt securities that have been stripped of their unmatured interest coupons, the coupons themselves or receipts or certificates representing interests in such stripped debt obligations or coupons. A portion of the discount with respect to stripped tax-exempt securities or their coupons may be taxable. Such securities are designed to give an issuer flexibility in managing cash flow. PIK securities that are debt securities can either be senior or subordinated debt and generally trade flat (i.e., without accrued interest). The trading price of PIK debt securities generally reflects the market value of the underlying debt plus an amount representing accrued interest since the last interest payment.
PIK securities, zero coupon bonds and capital appreciation bonds involve the additional risk that, unlike securities that periodically pay interest to maturity, an underlying investment company will realize no cash until a specified future payment date unless a portion of such securities is sold and, if the issuer of such securities defaults, an underlying investment company may obtain no return at all on its investment. In addition, even though such securities may not provide for the payment of current interest in cash, an underlying investment company is nonetheless required to accrue income on such investments for each taxable year and generally is required to distribute such accrued amounts (net of deductible expenses, if any) to avoid being subject to tax. Because no cash is generally received at the time of the accrual, an underlying investment company may be required to liquidate other portfolio securities to obtain sufficient cash to satisfy federal tax distribution requirements applicable to the underlying investment company. Additionally, the market prices of PIK securities, zero coupon bonds and capital appreciation bonds generally are more volatile than the market prices of interest bearing securities and are likely to respond to a greater degree to changes in interest rates than interest bearing securities having similar maturities and credit quality.
Purchase Warrants. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may invest in purchase warrants and similar rights. Purchase warrants are privileges issued by a corporation which enable the owner to subscribe to and purchase a specified number of shares of the corporation at a specified price during a specified period of time. Subscription rights normally have a short lifespan to expiration. The purchase of warrants involves the risk that the underlying investment company could lose the purchase value of a warrant if the right to subscribe to additional shares is not executed prior to the warrants expiration. Also, the purchase of warrants involves the risk that the effective price paid for the warrant added to the subscription price of the related security may exceed the value of the subscribed securitys market price such as when there is no movement in the level of the underlying security.
Real Estate Investment Trust Securities. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may invest in real estate investment trusts (REITs). REITs generally invest directly in real estate, in mortgages or in some combination of the two. Individual REITs may own a limited number of
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properties and may concentrate in a particular region or property type. A REIT is a corporation, or a 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 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) or 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 to shareholders annually a substantial portion of its otherwise taxable income.
Generally, REITs can be classified as equity REITs, mortgage REITs and hybrid REITs. Equity REITs invest the majority of their assets directly in real property and derive their income primarily from rents and capital gains from appreciation realized through property sales. Mortgage REITs invest the majority of their assets in real estate mortgages and derive their income primarily from interest payments. Hybrid REITs combine the characteristics of both equity and mortgage REITs. The values of securities issued by REITs are affected by tax and regulatory requirements and by perceptions of management skill. They also are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers or tenants, self-liquidation and the possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free status under the Code or to maintain exemption from the 1940 Act.
The REITs in which the underlying investment companies may invest may be affected by economic forces and other factors related to the real estate industry. REITs are sensitive to factors such as changes in real estate values, property taxes, interest rates, cash flow of underlying real estate assets, occupancy rates, government regulations affecting zoning, land use and rents, and management skill and creditworthiness of the issuer. Companies in the real estate industry may also be subject to liabilities under environmental and hazardous waste laws. REITS whose underlying assets include long-term health care properties; such as nursing, retirement and assisted living homes, may be impacted by federal regulations concerning the health care industry. An underlying investment company will indirectly bear its proportionate share of expenses, including management fees, paid by each REIT in which it invests in addition to the expenses of the underlying investment company. An underlying investment company is also subject to the risk that the REITs in which it invests will fail to qualify for tax-free pass-through of income under the Code, and/or fail to qualify for an exemption from registration as an investment company under the 1940 Act. Mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of the credit extended. A REITs return may be adversely affected when interest rates are high or rising.
Investing in REITs may involve risks similar to those associated with investing in small capitalization companies. REITs may have limited financial resources, may trade less frequently and in a limited volume and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements than larger company securities. Historically, small capitalization stocks, such as REITs, have been more volatile in price than the larger capitalization stocks included in the S&P 500 ® Index.
Repurchase Agreements. Each Funds underlying investment companies may agree to purchase securities from financial institutions subject to the sellers agreement to repurchase them at an agreed-upon time and price (repurchase agreements). The securities held subject to
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a repurchase agreement may have stated maturities exceeding 397 days, provided the repurchase agreement itself matures in less than 13 months. Default by or bankruptcy of the seller would, however, expose an underlying investment company to possible loss because of adverse market action or delays in connection with the disposition of the underlying obligations.
Default by or bankruptcy of the seller would, expose an underlying investment company to possible loss because of adverse market action or delays in connection with the disposition of the underlying obligations.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may enter into reverse repurchase agreements. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the sale of securities held by an underlying investment company subject to the underlying investment companys agreement to repurchase the securities at an agreed-upon price, date and rate of interest. Reverse repurchase agreements involve the risk that the market value of the securities sold by an underlying investment company may decline below the price of the securities the underlying investment company is obligated to repurchase and the interest received on the cash exchanged for the securities.
Short Sales. To the extent consistent with their respective investment policies and limitations, each Funds underlying investment companies may enter into short sales. Short sales are transactions in which an underlying investment company sells a security it does not own in anticipation of a decline in the market value of that security. To complete such a transaction, the underlying investment company must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The underlying investment company then is obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing it at the market price at the time of replacement. The price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the security was sold by the underlying investment company. Until the security is replaced, the underlying investment company is required to pay to the lender amounts equal to any dividend which accrues during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the underlying investment company 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 an underlying investment company replaces a borrowed security in connection with a short sale, the underlying investment company will: (a) maintain daily a segregated account, containing cash, cash equivalents, or liquid marketable securities, at such a level that 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 or (b) otherwise cover its short position in accordance with positions taken by the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC).
An underlying investment company will incur a loss as a result of the short sale if the price of the security increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the underlying investment company replaces the borrowed security. The underlying investment company will realize a gain if the security declines in price between those dates. This result is the opposite of what one would expect from a cash purchase of a long position in a security. The amount of any gain will be decreased, and the amount of any loss increased, by the amount of any premium or amounts in lieu of interest the underlying investment company may be required to pay in connection with a short sale.
28
Short Sales Against the Box. In addition to the short sales discussed above, an underlying investment company may make short sales against the box, a transaction in which a fund enters into a short sale of a security that the fund owns or has the right to obtain at no additional cost. The proceeds of the short sale will be held by a broker until the settlement date at which time the underlying investment company delivers the security to close the short position. The underlying investment company receives the net proceeds from the short sale.
Structured Securities. The Free Market Fixed Income Funds underlying investment companies may invest in structured securities. The value of the principal of and/or interest on structured securities is determined by reference to changes in the value of specific currencies, commodities, securities, indices or other financial indictors (the Reference) or the relative change in two or more References. The interest rate or the principal amount payable upon maturity or redemption may be increased or decreased depending upon changes in the applicable Reference. Examples of structured securities include, but are not limited to, notes where the principal repayment at maturity is determined by the value of the relative change in two or more specified securities or securities indices.
The terms of some structured securities may provide that in certain circumstances no principal is due at maturity and, therefore, an underlying investment company could suffer a total loss of its investment. Structured securities may be positively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the Reference may produce an increase or decrease in the interest rate or value of the security at maturity. In addition, changes in the interest rate or the value of the security at maturity may be a multiple of the changes in the value of the Reference. Consequently, structured securities may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of securities. Structured securities may also be more volatile, less liquid and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities due to their derivative nature.
29
DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The Company has adopted, on behalf of the Funds, a policy relating to the disclosure of each Funds portfolio securities to ensure that disclosure of information about portfolio holdings is in the best interest of Fund shareholders. The policies relating to the disclosure of the Funds portfolio securities are designed to allow disclosure of portfolio holdings information where necessary to the Funds operation without compromising the integrity or performance of the Fund. It is the policy of the Company that disclosure of a Funds portfolio holdings to a select person or persons prior to the release of such holdings to the public (selective disclosure) is prohibited, unless there are legitimate business purposes for selective disclosure.
The Company discloses portfolio holdings information as required in regulatory filings and shareholder reports, discloses portfolio holdings information as required by federal and state securities laws and may disclose portfolio holdings information in response to requests by governmental authorities. As required by the federal securities laws, including the 1940 Act, the Company will disclose the Funds portfolio holdings in applicable regulatory filings, including shareholder reports, reports on Form N-CSR and Form N-Q or such other filings, reports or disclosure documents as the applicable regulatory authorities may require.
The Adviser currently makes the Funds complete portfolio holdings, top ten holdings, sector weightings and other portfolio characteristics publicly available, as disclosed in the following table:
Information Posting |
Frequency of Disclosure |
Date of Web Posting |
||
Complete Portfolio Holdings | Quarterly* | 30 days after the end of each calendar quarter | ||
Top 10 Portfolio Holdings and other portfolio characteristics | Quarterly | 10 days after the end of each calendar quarter |
The scope of the information relating to the Funds portfolios that is made available on the web site may change from time to time without notice. The Adviser or its affiliates may include each Funds portfolio information that has already been made public through a Web posting or SEC filing in marketing literature and other communications to shareholders, advisors or other parties, provided that, in the case of information made public through the Web, the information is disclosed no earlier than the day after the date of posting to the Web site.
The Company may distribute or authorize the distribution of information about the Funds portfolio holdings that is not publicly available to its third-party service providers of the Company, which include PFPC Trust Company, the custodian for the Funds; PFPC Inc., the administrator, accounting agent and transfer agent; , the Funds independent registered public accounting firm; Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, legal counsel; GCom 2 Solutions and R.R. Donnelly, the financial printers; and , the Funds proxy voting service. These service providers are required to keep such information confidential, and are prohibited from trading based on the information or otherwise using the information except as necessary in providing services to the Funds. Such holdings are released on conditions of confidentiality,
30
which include appropriate trading prohibitions. Conditions of confidentiality include confidentiality terms included in written agreements, implied by the nature of the relationship (e.g. attorney-client relationship), or required by fiduciary or regulatory principles (e.g., custody services provided by financial institutions). Portfolio holdings may also be provided earlier to shareholders and their agents who receive redemptions in kind that reflect a pro rata allocation of all securities held in a Funds portfolio.
Portfolio holdings may also be disclosed, upon authorization by a designated officer of the Adviser, to (i) certain independent reporting agencies recognized by the SEC as acceptable agencies for the reporting of industry statistical information, and (ii) financial consultants to assist them in determining the suitability of a Fund as an investment for their clients, in each case in accordance with the anti-fraud provisions of the federal securities laws and the Companys and the Advisers fiduciary duties to Fund shareholders. Disclosures to financial consultants are also subject to a confidentiality agreement and/or trading restrictions as well as a 30-day time lag. The foregoing disclosures are made pursuant to the Companys policy on selective disclosure of portfolio holdings. The Board of Directors of the Company or a committee thereof may, in limited circumstances, permit other selective disclosure of portfolio holdings subject to a confidentiality agreement and/or trading restrictions. Portfolio holdings may also be provided earlier to shareholders and their agents who receive redemptions in kind that reflect a pro rata allocation of all securities held in the Funds portfolios.
The Adviser reserves the right to refuse to fulfill any request for portfolio holdings information from a shareholder or non-shareholder if it believes that providing such information will be contrary to the best interests of the Funds.
Any violations of the policy set forth above as well as any corrective action undertaken to address such violations must be reported by the Adviser, director, officer or third party service provider to the Companys Chief Compliance Officer, who will determine whether the violation should be reported immediately to the Board of Directors of the Company or at its next quarterly Board meeting.
The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Companys Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their dates of birth, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below.
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32
Name, Address, and Date of Birth |
Position(s)
Held with Fund |
Term of
Office and Length of Time Served 1 |
Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years |
Number of
Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Director * |
Other Directorships Held by Director |
|||||
INTERESTED DIRECTORS 2 | ||||||||||
Robert Sablowsky Oppenheimer & Company, Inc. 200 Park Avenue New York, NY 10166 DOB: 4/16/38 |
Director |
1991 to
present |
Since July 2002, Senior Vice President and prior thereto, Executive Vice President of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., formerly Fahnestock & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer). Since November 2004, Director of Kensington Funds. | 23 | Kensington Funds | |||||
J. Richard Carnall 103 Bellevue Parkway Wilmington, DE 19809 DOB: 9/25/38 |
Director |
2002 to
present |
Director of PFPC Inc. from January 1987 to April 2002, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PFPC Inc. until April 2002, Executive Vice President of PNC Bank, National Association from October 1981 to April 2002, Director of PFPC International Ltd. (financial services) from August 1993 to April 2002, Director of PFPC International (Cayman) Ltd. (financial services) from September 1996 to April 2002; Governor of the Investment Company Institute (investment company industry trade organization) from July 1996 to January 2002; Director of PNC Asset Management, Inc. (investment advisory) from September 1994 to March 1998; Director of PNC National Bank from October 1995 to November 1997; Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.) since 1984; and Director of Cornerstone Bank since March 2004. | 23 | Cornerstone Bank |
33
Name, Address, and Date of Birth |
Position(s)
Held with Fund |
Term of
Office and Length of Time Served 1 |
Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years |
Number of
Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Director * |
Other
Directorships Held by Director |
|||||
OFFICERS | ||||||||||
Edward J. Roach 103 Bellevue Parkway Wilmington, DE 19809 DOB: 6/29/24 |
President
and Treasurer |
1991 to
present and 1988 to present |
Certified Public Accountant; Vice Chairman of the Board, Fox Chase Cancer Center; Trustee Emeritus, Pennsylvania School for the Deaf; Trustee Emeritus, Immaculata University; Managing General Partner, President since 2002, Treasurer since 1981 and Chief Compliance Officer since September 2004 of Chestnut Street Exchange Fund. | N/A | N/A | |||||
Tina M. Payne 301 Bellevue Parkway 2nd Floor Wilmington, DE 19809 DOB: 5/19/74 |
Secretary |
2004 to
present |
Since 2003, Vice President and Associate Counsel, PFPC Inc. (financial services company); Associate, Stradley, Ronon, Stevens & Young, LLC (law firm) from 2001 to 2003. | N/A | N/A | |||||
Salvatore Faia, Esquire, CPA Vigilant Compliance Services 186 Dundee Drive, Suite 700 Williamstown, NJ 08094 DOB: 12/25/62 |
Chief
Compliance Officer |
Since 2004 | President, Vigilant Compliance Services since 2004; Senior Legal Counsel, PFPC Inc. from 2002 to 2004; Chief Legal Counsel, Corviant Corporation (Investment Adviser, Broker-Dealer and Service Provider to Investment Advisers and Separate Accountant Providers) from 2001 to 2002. | N/A | N/A |
* | Each Director oversees twenty-three portfolios of the Company that are currently offered for sale. |
1. | Subject to the Companys Retirement Policy, each Director, except Messrs. Giordano, Sargent and Straniere, may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of year 2011 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. Subject to the Companys Retirment Policy, Messrs. Giordano, Sargent and Straniere may serve until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board of Directors until the next annual meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed |
2. | Messrs. Carnall and Sablowsky are considered interested persons of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act. Mr. Carnall is an interested Director of the Company because he owns shares of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. and Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. The investment adviser to the Companys Money Market Portfolio, BlackRock Institutional Management Corporation; the investment adviser to the Companys Senbanc Fund, Hilliard Lyons Research Advisors, a division of J.J.B. Hilliard, W.L. Lyons, Inc.; and the Companys principal underwriter, PFPC Distributors, Inc., are indirect subsidiaries of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. Mr. Sablowsky is considered an interested Director of the Company by virtue of his position as an officer of a registered broker-dealer. |
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The Board and Standing Committees
Board. The Board of Directors is comprised of nine individuals, two of whom are considered interested Directors as defined by the 1940 Act. The remaining Directors are referred to as Disinterested or Independent Directors. The Board meets at least quarterly to review the investment performance of each portfolio in the mutual fund family and other operational matters, including policies and procedures with respect to compliance with regulatory and other requirements. Currently, the Board of Directors has an Audit Committee, an Executive Committee and a Nominating Committee. The responsibilities of each committee and its members are described below.
Audit Committee. The Board has an Audit Committee comprised only of Independent Directors. The current members of the Audit Committee are Messrs. Brodsky, Giordano, McKay and Sternberg. The Audit Committee, among other things, reviews results of the annual audit and approves the firm(s) to serve as independent auditors. The Audit Committee convened six times during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2006.
Executive Committee. The Board has an Executive Committee comprised only of Independent Directors. The current members of the Executive Committee are Messrs. McKay, Reichman and Straniere. The Executive Committee may generally carry on and manage the business of the Company when the Board of Directors is not in session. The Executive Committee did not convene during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2006.
Nominating Committee. The Board has a Nominating Committee comprised only of Independent Directors. The current members of the Nominating Committee are Messrs. Brodsky, McKay and Sargent. The Nominating Committee recommends to the Board of Directors all persons to be nominated as Directors of the Company. The Nominating Committee will consider nominees recommended by shareholders. Recommendations should be submitted to the Committee in care of the Companys Secretary. The Nominating Committee convened once during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2006.
Director Ownership of Shares of the Company
The following table sets forth the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by each Director in the Funds and in all of the portfolios (which for each Director comprise all registered investment companies within the Companys family of investment companies overseen by him) as of December 31, 2006. As of December 31, 2006, the Funds did not offer shares.
35
Name of Director |
Dollar Range of Equity Securities in the Funds |
Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity Securities in All Registered Investment Companies Overseen by Director within the Family of Investment Companies |
||
DISINTERESTED DIRECTORS | ||||
Julian A. Brodsky |
None | Over $100,000 | ||
Nicholas A. Giordano |
None | None | ||
Francis J. McKay |
None | Over $100,000 | ||
Arnold M. Reichman |
None | Over $100,000 | ||
Mark A. Sargent |
None | None | ||
Marvin E. Sternberg |
None | None | ||
Robert A. Straniere |
None | None | ||
INTERESTED DIRECTORS | ||||
J. Richard Carnall |
None | None | ||
Robert Sablowsky |
None | Over $100,000 |
Directors and Officers Compensation
Since February 15, 2006, the Company pays each Director at the rate of $17,500 annually and $3,500 per meeting of the Board of Directors or any committee thereof that was not held in conjunction with a Board meeting. Each Director is also paid a fee of $500 for telephonic Board or Committee meetings lasting one-half hour or less. The Chairman of the Board receives an additional fee of $12,000 per year for his services in this capacity, and the Chairman of the Audit Committee receives an additional fee of $4,000 per year for his services. Prior to February 15, 2006, the Company paid each Director at the rate of $16,500 annually and $1,375 per meeting of the Board of Directors or any committee thereof that was not held in conjunction with a Board meeting. In addition, the Chairman of the Board received an additional fee of $6,600 per year for his services in this capacity.
Directors are reimbursed for any reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in attending meetings of the Board of Directors or any committee thereof. The Company also compensates its President and Treasurer and Chief Compliance Officer for their respective services to the Company. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2006, each of the following members of the Board of Directors and the President and Treasurer and Chief Compliance Officer received compensation from the Company in the following amounts:
36
Name of Director/Officer |
Aggregate
Compensation from Registrant |
Pension or
Retirement Benefits Accrued as Part of Fund Expenses |
Estimated
Annual Benefits Upon Retirement |
Total
Compensation From Fund and Fund Complex Paid to Directors or Officers |
|||||||
Independent Directors: |
|||||||||||
Julian A. Brodsky, Director |
$ | 38,500 | N/A | N/A | $ | 38,500 | |||||
Nicholas A. Giordano, Director* |
$ | 0 | N/A | N/A | $ | 0 | |||||
Francis J. McKay, Director |
$ | 37,125 | N/A | N/A | $ | 37,125 | |||||
Arnold M. Reichman, Director and Chairman |
$ | 31,250 | N/A | N/A | $ | 31,250 | |||||
Mark A. Sargent, Director* |
$ | 0 | N/A | N/A | $ | 0 | |||||
Marvin E. Sternberg, Director |
$ | 39,125 | N/A | N/A | $ | 39,125 | |||||
Robert A. Straniere, Director* |
$ | 1,731 | N/A | N/A | $ | 1,731 | |||||
Interested Directors: |
|||||||||||
J. Richard Carnall, Director and former Chairman |
$ | 34,300 | N/A | N/A | $ | 34,300 | |||||
Robert Sablowsky, Director |
$ | 29,500 | N/A | N/A | $ | 29,500 | |||||
Officers: |
|||||||||||
Salvatore Faia, Esquire, CPA Chief Compliance Officer |
$ | 224,784 | N/A | N/A | $ | 224,784 | |||||
Edward J. Roach, President and Treasurer |
$ | 43,000 | $ | 4,300 | N/A | $ | 47,300 |
* | Mr. Straniere was elected to the Board of Directors at a meeting held on May 25, 2006 and, therefore, the compensation reflected is for the period May 25, 2006 through August 31, 2006. Messrs. Giordano and Sargent were elected to the Board of Directors at a meeting held on September 6, 2006 and, therefore, received no compensation during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2006. |
As of December 31, 2006, the Independent Directors and their respective immediate family members (spouse or dependent children) did not own beneficially or of record any securities of the Companys investment advisers or distributor, or of any person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment advisers or distributor.
On October 24, 1990, the Company adopted, as a participating employer, the Fund Office Retirement Profit-Sharing Plan and Trust Agreement, a retirement plan for employees (currently
37
Edward J. Roach), pursuant to which the Company will contribute on a quarterly basis amounts equal to 10% of the quarterly compensation of each eligible employee. By virtue of the services performed by the Companys investment advisers, custodians, administrators and distributor, the Company itself requires only one part-time employee. No officer, director or employee of the Adviser or the distributor currently receives any compensation from the Company.
Certain Interests of Independent Director
Mr. Brodsky serves as a member of the Board of Directors of Comcast Corporation (Comcast). Comcast has a $5 billion revolving credit facility with a lending syndicate of 27 banks, one of which is Merrill Lynch Bank USA (ML Bank), an affiliate of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. (Merrill Lynch), which owns a controlling interest in BlackRock, Inc., the parent company of BlackRock Institutional Management Corporation, sub-adviser to the Money Market Portfolio, a series of the Company. ML Banks obligation as part of the syndicate is limited to $100 million, or approximately 2.0% of the total amount of the credit facility. The credit facility is used for working capital, capital expenditures, commercial paper backup and other lawful corporate purposes. The highest amount outstanding on the ML Bank pro rata share of the credit facility during the period January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2005 (including any predecessor credit facility in effect during such period), based on month-end balances, was $21.8 million. There was no balance outstanding on the ML Bank pro rata share of the credit facility as of December 1, 2006. The interest rate on amounts drawn under the credit facility is based upon Comcasts credit ratings. As of December 1, 2006, the interest rates are (i) for amounts undrawn, London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 8 basis points; (ii) for the first draw up to 50% drawn, LIBOR plus 35 basis points; and (iii) for amounts drawn greater than 50% drawn, LIBOR plus 45 basis points. During the period January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2005, Merrill Lynch participated as an underwriter in 1 (one) Comcast debt offering. Merrill Lynch did not serve as a joint book-running manager in that debt offering. Comcast has advised the Company that on average its institutional debt offerings include 23 firms in the underwriting syndicate and its retail debt offerings include 53 firms in the underwriting syndicate. For the underwriting services provided during this period, Merrill Lynch received fees from Comcast of approximately $300,000. Merrill Lynch also serves as the administrator to Comcasts stock option plan and restricted stock plan and received an annual fee of no more than $800,000 for each of the two years in the period January 1, 2004 through December 31, 2005.
The Company, the Adviser and PFPC Distributors, Inc. (PFPC Distributors) have each adopted a code of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act that permits personnel subject to the codes to invest in securities, including securities that may be purchased or held by the Company.
The Board of Directors has delegated the responsibility of voting proxies with respect to the portfolio securities purchased and/or held by each Fund to the Adviser, subject to the Boards continuing oversight. In exercising its voting obligations, the Adviser is guided by its general fiduciary duty to act prudently and in the interest of the Funds. The Adviser will consider factors affecting the value of the Funds investments and the rights of shareholders in its determination on voting portfolio securities.
38
The Adviser has adopted proxy voting procedures with respect to voting proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the Funds. A copy of the Advisers Proxy Voting Policies is included with this SAI. Please see Appendix B to this SAI for further information.
Information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available, without charge, upon request, by calling 1-888-261-4073 or by visiting the SECs website at www.sec.gov.
The Adviser renders advisory services to the Fund pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement (Advisory Agreement) dated as of , 2007. The Adviser is not a subsidiary of or under the control of any other company. Mark E. Matson, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and a Director of the Adviser, owns approximately 51% of the Advisers voting stock, and members of Mr. Matsons family own all of the remaining shares of the Advisers voting stock.
Subject to the supervision of the Companys Board of Directors, the Adviser will provide for the overall management of the Fund including (i) the provision of a continuous investment program for the Fund, including investment research and management with respect to all securities, investments, cash and cash equivalents, (ii) the determination from time to time of what securities and other investments will be purchased, retained, or sold by the Fund, and (iii) the placement from time to time of orders for all purchases and sales made for the Fund. The Adviser will provide the services rendered by it in accordance with the Funds investment goal, restrictions and policies as stated in the Prospectus and in this SAI. The Adviser will not be liable for any error of judgment, mistake of law, or for any loss suffered by the Fund in connection with the performance of the Advisory Agreement, except a loss resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty with respect to the receipt of compensation for services or a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Adviser in the performance of its duties, or from reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under the Advisory Agreement.
For its services to the Fund the Adviser is entitled to receive a monthly advisory fee at an annual rate of 0.50% of each Funds average daily net assets. Through December 31, 2007, the Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses to the extent that the Funds total annual operating expenses exceed 1.13%, 1.35% and 1.00% of the Funds average daily net assets with respect to the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market
39
International Equity Fund and Free Market Fixed Income Fund, respectively. There is no assurance that the Adviser will continue these fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements beyond December 31, 2007.
The Adviser will pay all expenses incurred by it in connection with its activities under the Advisory Agreement. The Fund bears all of its own expenses not specifically assumed by the Adviser. General expenses of the Company not readily identifiable as belonging to a portfolio of the Company are allocated among all investment portfolios by or under the direction of the Companys Board of Directors in such manner as it deems to be fair and equitable. Expenses borne by the Fund include, but are not limited to the following (or the Funds share of the following): (a) the cost (including brokerage commissions) of securities purchased or sold by the Fund and any losses incurred in connection therewith; (b) fees payable to and expenses incurred on behalf of the Fund by the Adviser; (c) filing fees and expenses relating to the registration and qualification of the Company and the Funds shares under federal and/or state securities laws and maintaining such registrations and qualifications; (d) fees and salaries payable to the Companys Directors and officers; (e) taxes (including any income or franchise taxes) and governmental fees; (f) costs of any liability and other insurance or fidelity bonds; (g) any costs, expenses or losses arising out of a liability of or claim for damages or other relief asserted against the Company or the Fund for violation of any law; (h) legal, accounting and auditing expenses, including legal fees of special counsel for the independent Directors; (i) charges of custodians and other agents; (j) expenses of setting in type and printing prospectuses, statements of additional information and supplements thereto for existing shareholders, reports, statements, and confirmations to shareholders and proxy material that are not attributable to a class; (k) costs of mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information and supplements thereto to existing shareholders, as well as reports to shareholders and proxy materials that are not attributable to a class; (1) any extraordinary expenses; (m) fees, voluntary assessments and other expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company organizations; (n) costs of mailing and tabulating proxies and costs of shareholders and Directors meetings; (o) costs of independent pricing services to value a portfolios securities; and (p) the costs of investment company literature and other publications provided by the Company to its Directors and officers. Distribution expenses, transfer agency expenses, expenses of preparation, printing and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, proxy statements and reports to shareholders, and organizational expenses and registration fees, identified as belonging to a particular class of the Company, are allocated to such class.
The Advisory Agreement was approved on May 24, 2007 for a term ending on August 16, 2008 by vote of the Companys Board of Directors, including a majority of those Directors who are not parties to the Advisory Agreement or interested persons (as defined in the 1940 Act) of such parties. The Advisory Agreement was approved by the sole shareholder of the Fund. The Advisory Agreement is terminable by vote of the Companys Board of Directors or by the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, at any time without penalty, on 60 days written notice to the Adviser. The Advisory Agreement may be terminated by the Adviser at any time, without payment of any penalty, on 60 days written notice to the Fund. The Advisory Agreement terminates automatically in the event of assignment thereof.
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The Advisory Agreement provides that the Adviser shall at all times have all rights in and to the Funds name and all investment models used by or on behalf of the Fund. The Adviser may use the Funds name or any portion thereof in connection with any other mutual fund or business activity without the consent of any shareholder, and the Company has agreed to execute and deliver any and all documents required to indicate its consent to such use.
The Advisory Agreement further provides that no public reference to, or description of, the Adviser or its methodology or work shall be made by the Company, whether in the Prospectus, SAI or otherwise, without the Advisers prior written consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld. In each case, the Company has agreed to provide the Adviser a reasonable opportunity to review any such reference or description before being asked for such consent.
The Adviser may pay compensation, out of its own funds and not as an expense of the Funds, to certain brokerage firms, investment advisers or financial institutions (Service Organizations) in connection with the sale or retention of shares of the Funds and/or shareholder servicing. For example, the Adviser may pay compensation to Service Organizations for the purpose of promoting the sale of Fund shares, maintaining share balances and/or for administrative shareholder processing services. The payments will not exceed [ %] of the amount of assets invested by the Service Organizations customers (which could include current or aged assets of the portfolio). The amount of these payments may be different for different Service Organizations.
Description of Compensation.
TO BE INSERTED.
Other Accounts . The table below discloses accounts, other than the particular Fund, or Funds managed by the Portfolio Manager for which each Portfolio Manager is primarily responsible for the day-to-day portfolio management, for the period ended July 15, 2007.
41
Name of Portfolio Manager or Team Member |
Type of Accounts |
Total
# of
|
Total Assets
($mm) |
# of Accounts
Managed that Advisory Fee Based on Performance |
Total Assets that
Advisory Fee Based on Performance ($mm) |
|||||
Free Market U.S. Equity Fund | ||||||||||
1. | Registered Investment Companies: Other Pooled Investment Vehicles: Other Accounts: | |||||||||
2. | Registered Investment Companies: Other Pooled Investment Vehicles: Other Accounts: | |||||||||
Free Market International Equity Fund | ||||||||||
1. | Registered Investment Companies: Other Pooled Investment Vehicles: Other Accounts: | |||||||||
2. | Registered Investment Companies: Other Pooled Investment Vehicles: Other Accounts: | |||||||||
Free Market Fixed-Income Fund | ||||||||||
1. | Registered Investment Companies: Other Pooled Investment Vehicles: Other Accounts: | |||||||||
2. | Registered Investment Companies: Other Pooled Investment Vehicles: Other Accounts: |
[* The portfolio managers utilize a team based approach to other accounts managed. The portfolio managers are jointly and primarily responsible for the management of a portion of the total assets and number of accounts shown.]
Securities Ownership . The Funds have not offered shares to the public as of the date of this SAI and, accordingly, the Portfolio Managers do not own any shares of the Fund as of that date.
PFPC Trust Company, 8800 Tinicum Boulevard, Suite 200, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19153, is custodian of the Funds assets pursuant to a custodian agreement between PFPC Trust Company and the Company dated as of August 16, 1988, as amended, and supplemented (the Custodian Agreement). Under the Custodian Agreement, PFPC Trust Company: (a) maintains a separate account or accounts in the name of each Fund; (b) holds and transfers portfolio securities on account of each Fund; (c) accepts receipts and makes disbursements of money on behalf of each Fund; (d) collects and receives all income and other payments and distributions on account of each Funds portfolio securities; and (e) makes periodic reports to the Companys Board of Directors concerning the Funds operations. PFPC Trust Company is authorized to select one or more banks or trust companies to serve as sub-custodian on behalf of
42
the Funds, provided that PFPC Trust Company remains responsible for the performance of all of their duties under the Custodian Agreement and hold the Company harmless from the acts and omissions of any sub-custodian. For its services to the Funds under the Custodian Agreement, PFPC Trust Company receives a fee of on average daily gross assets of each Fund calculated daily and payable monthly, or a minimum monthly fee of $ , exclusive of transaction charges and out-of-pocket expenses, which are also charged to the Fund.
Transfer Agency Agreement
PFPC Inc. (PFPC), 301 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware 19809, an affiliate of PFPC Distributors, serves as the transfer and dividend disbursing agent for the Funds pursuant to a transfer agency agreement dated November 5, 1991, as supplemented (the Transfer Agency Agreement). Under the Transfer Agency Agreement, PFPC: (a) issues and redeems shares of each Fund; (b) addresses and mails all communications by the Funds to record owners of Fund shares, including reports to shareholders, dividend and distribution notices and proxy materials for its meetings of shareholders; (c) maintains shareholder accounts and, if requested, sub-accounts; and (d) makes periodic reports to the Companys Board of Directors concerning the operations of the Funds. PFPC may, on 30 days notice to the Company, assign its duties as transfer and dividend disbursing agent to any other affiliate of PNC Bank Corp. For its services to the Funds under the Transfer Agency Agreement, PFPC receives a fee at the annual rate of $ per account in the Fund, with a minimum monthly fee of $ per class payable monthly on a pro rata basis, exclusive of out-of-pocket expenses, and also receives reimbursement of its out-of-pocket expenses.
PFPC also provides services relating to the implementation of the Companys Anti-Money Laundering Program. The Company pays an annual fee, ranging from $3,000 - $50,000, based on the number of open accounts in each portfolio of the Company. In addition, PFPC provides services relating to the implementation of the Companys Customer Identification Program, including verification of required customer information and the maintenance of records with respect to such verification. The Funds will pay PFPC $2.25 per customer verification and $0.02 per month per record result maintained.
Administration and Accounting Services Agreement
PFPC also serves as administrator to the Funds pursuant to an administration and accounting services agreement dated August , 2007 with respect to the Funds, (the Administration Agreement). PFPC has agreed to furnish to the Funds statistical and research data, clerical, accounting and bookkeeping services, and certain other services required by the Funds. In addition, PFPC has agreed to prepare and file various reports with the appropriate regulatory agencies and prepare materials required by the SEC or any state securities commission having jurisdiction over the Funds. The Administration Agreement provides that PFPC shall be obligated to exercise care and diligence in the performance of its duties, to act in good faith and to use its best efforts, within reasonable limits, in performing services thereunder. PFPC shall be responsible for failure to perform its duties under the Administration Agreement arising out of its willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard. For its services to the Funds, PFPC is entitled to receive a fee calculated at an annual rate of:
|
% of each Funds first $ million of average daily net assets; and |
|
% of each Funds average daily net assets in excess of $ million. |
43
The minimum monthly fee will be $ for each of the Funds, exclusive of out-of-pocket expenses.
The Administration Agreement provides that PFPC shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or any loss suffered by the Company or a Fund in connection with the performance of the agreement, except a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, gross negligence or reckless disregard by it of its duties and obligations thereunder.
On June 1, 2003, the Company entered into a regulatory administration services agreement with PFPC. Under this agreement, PFPC has agreed to provide regulatory administration services to the Company. These services include the preparation and coordination of the Companys annual post-effective amendment filing and supplements to the Companys registration statement, the preparation and assembly of board meeting materials, and certain other services necessary to the Companys regulatory administration. PFPC receives an annual fee based on the average daily net assets of the portfolios of the Company.
PFPC Distributors, whose principal business address is 760 Moore Road, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania 19406, serves as the distributor of the Funds pursuant to the terms of a distribution agreement, dated as of January 2, 2001, as supplemented (the Distribution Agreement) entered into by PFPC Distributors and the Company. Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, PFPC Distributors will use appropriate efforts to solicit orders for the sale of each Funds shares. As compensation for its distribution services, PFPC Distributors receives, pursuant to the terms of the Distribution Agreement, a distribution fee to be calculated daily and paid monthly.
Administrative Services Agreement
PFPC Distributors provides certain administrative services to the Institutional Class of each Fund that are not provided by PFPC, pursuant to an Administrative Services Agreement, dated as of May 29, 1998, as supplemented, between the Company and PFPC Distributors. These services include furnishing data processing and clerical services, acting as liaison between the Funds and various service providers and coordinating the preparation of annual, semi-annual and quarterly reports. As compensation for such administrative services, PFPC Distributors is entitled to receive an annual fee of $ from the Funds, which is allocated to the Funds in proportion to their net assets.
44
FUND TRANSACTIONS
Subject to policies established by the Board of Directors and applicable rules, the Adviser is responsible for the execution of portfolio transactions and the allocation of brokerage transactions for the Funds. In executing portfolio transactions, the Adviser seeks to obtain the best price and most favorable execution for the Funds, taking into account such factors as the price (including the applicable brokerage commission or dealer spread), size of the order, difficulty of execution and operational facilities of the firm involved. While the Adviser generally seeks reasonably competitive commission rates, payment of the lowest commission or spread is not necessarily consistent with obtaining the best price and execution in particular transactions.
No Fund has any obligation to deal with any broker or group of brokers in the execution of portfolio transactions. The Adviser may, consistent with the interests of the Funds and subject to the approval of the Board of Directors, select brokers on the basis of the research, statistical and pricing services they provide to the Funds and other clients of the Adviser. Information and research received from such brokers will be in addition to, and not in lieu of, the services required to be performed by the Adviser under its respective contracts. A commission paid to such brokers may be higher than that which another qualified broker would have charged for effecting the same transaction, provided that the Adviser determines in good faith that such commission is reasonable in terms either of the transaction or the overall responsibility of the Adviser to a Fund and its other clients and that the total commissions paid by a Fund will be reasonable in relation to the benefits to a Fund over the long-term.
Investment decisions for each Fund and for other investment accounts managed by the Adviser are made independently of each other in the light of differing conditions. However, the same investment decision may be made for two or more of such accounts. In such cases, simultaneous transactions are inevitable. Purchases or sales are then averaged as to price and allocated as to amount according to a formula deemed equitable to each such account. While in some cases this practice could have a detrimental effect upon the price or value of the security as far as a Fund is concerned, in other cases it is believed to be beneficial to a Fund.
45
PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION INFORMATION
You may purchase shares through an account maintained by your brokerage firm and you may also purchase shares directly by mail or wire. The Company reserves the right, if conditions exist that make cash payments undesirable, to honor any request for redemption or repurchase of a Funds shares by making payment in whole or in part in securities chosen by the Company and valued in the same way as they would be valued for purposes of computing that Funds NAV. If payment is made in securities, a shareholder may incur transaction costs in converting these securities into cash. A shareholder will also bear any market risk or tax consequences as a result of a payment in securities. The Company has elected, however, to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the 1940 Act so that each Fund is obligated to redeem its shares solely in cash up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of its NAV during any 90-day period for any one shareholder of the Fund. A shareholder will bear the risk of a decline in market value and any tax consequences associated with a redemption in securities.
Under the 1940 Act, the Company may suspend the right to redemption or postpone the date of payment upon redemption for any period during which the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (the NYSE) is closed (other than customary weekend and holiday closings), or during which the SEC restricts trading on the NYSE or determines an emergency exists as a result of which disposal or valuation of portfolio securities is not reasonably practicable, or for such other periods as the SEC may permit. (The Company may also suspend or postpone the recordation of the transfer of its shares upon the occurrence of any of the foregoing conditions.)
Shares of the Company are subject to redemption by the Company, at the redemption price of such shares as in effect from time to time, including, without limitation: (1) to reimburse a Fund for any loss sustained by reason of the failure of a shareholder to make full payment for shares purchased by the shareholder or to collect any charge relating to a transaction effected for the benefit of a shareholder as provided in the Prospectuses from time to time; (2) if such redemption is, in the opinion of the Companys Board of Directors, desirable in order to prevent the Company or any Fund from being deemed a personal holding company within the meaning of the Code; (3) or if the net income with respect to any particular class of common stock should be negative or it should otherwise be appropriate to carry out the Companys responsibilities under the 1940 Act.
TELEPHONE TRANSACTION PROCEDURES
The Companys telephone transaction procedures include the following measures: (1) requiring the appropriate telephone transaction privilege forms; (2) requiring the caller to provide the names of the account owners, the account social security number and name of the Fund, all of which must match the Companys records; (3) requiring the Companys service representative to complete a telephone transaction form, listing all of the above caller identification information; (4) permitting exchanges (if applicable) only if the two account registrations are identical; (5) requiring that redemption proceeds be sent only by check to the account owners of record at the address of record, or by wire only to the owners of record at the bank account of record; (6) sending a written confirmation for each telephone transaction to the owners of record at the address of record within five (5) business days of the call; and (7) maintaining tapes of
46
telephone transactions for six months, if the Company elects to record shareholder telephone transactions. For accounts held of record by broker-dealers (other than PFPC Distributors), financial institutions, securities dealers, financial planners and other industry professionals, additional documentation or information regarding the scope of a callers authority is required. Finally, for telephone transactions in accounts held jointly, additional information regarding other account holders is required. Telephone transactions will not be permitted in connection with Individual Retirement Account or other retirement plan accounts or by an attorney-in-fact under a power of attorney.
Subject to the approval of the Companys Board of Directors, the Funds may employ outside organizations, which may use a matrix or formula method that takes into consideration market indices, matrices, yield curves and other specific adjustments in determining the approximate market value of portfolio investments. This may result in the securities being valued at a price that differs from the price that would have been determined had the matrix or formula method not been used. All cash, receivables, and current payables are carried on a Funds books at their face value. Other assets, if any, are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Funds Valuation Committee under the direction of the Companys Board of Directors.
General
The following summarizes certain tax considerations generally affecting the Funds, the underlying investment companies, and Fund shareholders that are not fully described in the Prospectus. No attempt is made to present a detailed explanation of the tax treatment of the Funds, the underlying investment companies, or Fund shareholders, and the discussions here and in the Prospectus are not intended as a substitute for careful tax planning. Potential investors should consult their tax advisers with specific reference to their own tax situations.
The discussions of the federal tax consequences in the Prospectus and this SAI are based on the Internal Revenue Code (the Code) and the laws and regulations issued under it as in effect on the date of this SAI. Future legislative or administrative changes or court decisions may significantly change the statements included herein, and any such changes or decisions may have a retroactive effect with respect to the transactions contemplated herein.
Each Fund and each underlying investment company intends to qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of Subtitle A, Chapter 1, of the Code. As such, each Fund and underlying investment company generally will be exempt from federal income tax on its net investment income and realized capital gains that it distributes to shareholders. To qualify for treatment as a regulated investment company, it must meet three important tests each year.
First, each Fund and underlying investment company must derive with respect to each taxable year at least 90% of its gross income from dividends, interest, certain payments with
47
respect to securities loans and gains from the sale or other disposition of stock or securities or foreign currencies, other income derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities, or currencies or net income derived from an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership.
Second, generally, at the close of each quarter of its taxable year, at least 50% of the value of each Fund and underlying investment companys assets must consist of cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, securities of other regulated investment companies and securities of other issuers (as to which the Fund or the underlying investment company has not invested more than 5% of the value of its total assets in securities of such issuer and as to which the Fund or the underlying investment company does not hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer), and no more than 25% of the value of each Fund and underlying investment companys total assets may be invested in the securities of (1) any one issuer (other than U.S. government securities and securities of other regulated investment companies), (2) two or more issuers that the Fund or the underlying investment company controls and which are engaged in the same or similar trades or businesses, or (3) one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships.
Third, each Fund and underlying investment company must distribute an amount equal to at least the sum of 90% of its investment company taxable income (net investment income and the excess of net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss) and 90% of its tax-exempt income, if any, for the year.
Each Fund and underlying investment company intends to comply with these requirements. If a Fund or an underlying investment company were to fail to make sufficient distributions, it could be liable for corporate income tax and for excise tax in respect of the shortfall or, if the shortfall is large enough, the Fund or the underlying investment company could be disqualified as a regulated investment company. If for any taxable year a Fund or an underlying investment company were not to qualify as a regulated investment company, all its taxable income would be subject to tax at regular corporate rates without any deduction for distributions to shareholders, and its distributions to shareholders will be taxable as ordinary dividends to the extent of its current and accumulated earnings and profits.
The Code imposes a nondeductible 4% excise tax on regulated investment companies that fail to distribute each year an amount equal to specified percentages of their ordinary taxable income and capital gain net income (excess of capital gains over capital losses). Each Fund and underlying investment company intends to make sufficient distributions or deemed distributions each year to avoid liability for this excise tax.
State and Local Taxes
Although each Fund and underlying investment company expects to qualify as a regulated investment company and to be relieved of all or substantially all federal income taxes, depending upon the extent of its activities in states and localities in which its offices are maintained, in which its agents or independent contractors are located or in which it is otherwise deemed to be conducting business, a Fund or an underlying investment company may be subject to the tax laws of such states or localities.
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Taxation of Certain Investments
The tax principles applicable to transactions in financial instruments and futures contracts and options that may be engaged in by a Fund or an underlying investment company, and investments in passive foreign investment companies (PFICs), are complex and, in some cases, uncertain. Such transactions and investments may cause a Fund or an underlying investment company to recognize taxable income prior to the receipt of cash, thereby requiring the Fund or the underlying investment company to liquidate other positions, or to borrow money, so as to make sufficient distributions to shareholders to avoid corporate-level tax. Moreover, some or all of the taxable income recognized may be ordinary income or short-term capital gain, so that the distributions may be taxable to shareholders as ordinary income.
In addition, in the case of any shares of a PFIC in which a Fund or an underlying investment company invests, the Fund or the underlying investment company may be liable for corporate-level tax on any ultimate gain or distributions on the shares if the Fund or the underlying investment company fails to make an election to recognize income annually during the period of its ownership of the shares.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING COMPANY SHARES
The Company has authorized capital of 100 billion shares of common stock at a par value of $0.001 per share. Currently, 76.973 billion shares have been classified into 109 classes as shown in the table below, however, the Company only has 30 active share classes that have begun investment operations. Under the Companys charter, the Board of Directors has the power to classify and reclassify any unissued shares of common stock from time to time.
Class of Common Stock |
Number of
Authorized Shares (millions) |
Class of Common Stock |
Number of
Authorized Shares (millions) |
|||
A (Growth & Income) |
100 | BBB | 100 | |||
B |
100 | CCC | 100 | |||
C (Balanced) |
100 | DDD (Robeco Boston Partners Institutional Small Cap Value Fund II) | 100 | |||
D (Tax-Free) |
100 | EEE (Robeco Boston Partners Investors Small Cap Value Fund II) | 100 | |||
E (Money) |
500 | FFF | 100 | |||
F (Municipal Money) |
500 | GGG | 100 | |||
G (Money) |
500 | HHH | 100 | |||
H (Municipal Money) |
500 | III (Robeco Boston Partners Long/Short Equity-Institutional Class) | 100 | |||
I (Sansom Money) |
1,500 | JJJ (Robeco Boston Partners Long/Short Equity-Investor Class) | 100 | |||
J (Sansom Municipal Money) |
500 | KKK (Robeco Boston Partners Funds) | 100 | |||
K (Sansom Government Money) |
500 | LLL (Robeco Boston Partners Funds) | 100 | |||
L (Bedford Money) |
1,500 | MMM (n/i numeric Small Cap Value) | 100 | |||
M (Bedford Municipal Money) |
500 | NNN (Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Institutional Class) | 100 | |||
N (Bedford Government Money) |
500 | OOO (Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Investor Class) | 100 | |||
O (Bedford N.Y. Money) |
500 | PPP (Schneider Value Fund) | 100 | |||
P (RBB Government) |
100 | QQQ (Institutional Liquidity Fund for Credit Unions) | 2,500 | |||
Q |
100 | RRR (Liquidity Fund for Credit Unions) | 2,500 | |||
R (Municipal Money) |
500 | SSS (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Retirement Class) | 100 | |||
S (Government Money) |
500 | TTT (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Institutional Class) | 50 | |||
T |
500 | UUU (Robeco WPG Small Cap Value Fund Institutional Fund) | 50 | |||
U |
500 | VVV (Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund Institutional Class) | 50 | |||
V |
500 | WWW (Senbanc Fund) | 50 | |||
W |
100 | XXX (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Investor Class) | 100 | |||
X |
50 | YYY (Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio) | 100 |
50
Class of Common Stock |
Number of
Authorized Shares (millions) |
Class of Common Stock |
Number of
Authorized Shares (millions) |
|||
ZZZ (Marvin & Palmer Large Cap Growth Fund) | 100 | |||||
AAAA (Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) | 50,000 | |||||
BBBB (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund) | 100 | |||||
CCCC (Free Market International Equity Fund) | 100 | |||||
DDDD (Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) | 100 | |||||
Y |
50 | Select (Money) | 700 | |||
Z |
50 | Beta 2 (Municipal Money) | 1 | |||
AA |
50 | Beta 3 (Government Money) | 1 | |||
BB |
50 | Beta 4 (N.Y. Money) | 1 | |||
CC |
50 | Principal Class (Money) | 700 | |||
DD |
100 | Gamma 2 (Municipal Money) | 1 | |||
EE |
100 | Gamma 3 (Government Money) | 1 | |||
FF (n/i numeric Emerging Growth) |
50 | Gamma 4 (N.Y. Money) | 1 | |||
GG (n/i numeric Growth) |
50 | Bear Stearns Money | 2,500 | |||
HH (n/i numeric Mid Cap) |
50 | Bear Stearns Municipal Money | 1,500 | |||
II (Baker 500 Growth Fund) |
100 | Bear Stearns Government Money | 1,000 | |||
JJ (Baker 500 Growth Fund) |
100 | Delta 4 (N.Y. Money) | 1 | |||
KK |
100 | Epsilon 1 (Money) | 1 | |||
LL |
100 | Epsilon 2 (Municipal Money) | 1 | |||
MM |
100 | Epsilon 3 (Government Money) | 1 | |||
NN |
100 | Epsilon 4 (N.Y. Money) | 1 | |||
OO |
100 | Zeta 1 (Money) | 1 | |||
PP |
100 | Zeta 2 (Municipal Money) | 1 | |||
QQ (Robeco Boston Partners Institutional Large Cap) |
100 | Zeta 3 (Government Money) | 1 | |||
RR (Robeco Boston Partners Investors Large Cap) |
100 | Zeta 4 (N.Y. Money) | 1 | |||
SS (Robeco Boston Partners Adviser Large Cap) |
100 | Eta 1 (Money) | 1 | |||
TT (Robeco Boston Partners Investors Mid Cap) |
100 | Eta 2 (Municipal Money) | 1 | |||
UU (Robeco Boston Partners Institutional Mid Cap) |
100 | Eta 3 (Government Money) | 1 | |||
VV (Robeco Boston Partners Institutional All Cap Value) |
100 | Eta 4 (N.Y. Money) | 1 | |||
WW (Robeco Boston Partners Investors All Cap Value) |
100 | Theta 1 (Money) | 1 | |||
YY (Schneider Capital Small Cap Value) |
100 | Theta 2 (Municipal Money) | 1 | |||
ZZ |
100 | Theta 3 (Government Money) | 1 | |||
AAA |
100 | Theta 4 (N.Y. Money) | 1 |
The classes of common stock have been grouped into separate families. There are nine families that currently have operating portfolios, including: the Sansom Street Family, the Bedford Family, the Schneider Capital Management Family, the Robeco Investment Funds Family, the Bogle Investment Management Family, the Hilliard Lyons Family, the Bear Stearns Family, the Marvin & Palmer Family and the Abundance Technologies Family. The Bedford Family and the Sansom Street Family represent interests in the Money Market Portfolio; the
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Robeco Investment Funds Family represents interests in eight non-money market portfolios; the Bogle Investment Management Family represents interests in one non-money market portfolio; the Schneider Capital Management Family represents interests in two non-money market portfolios; the Hilliard Lyons Family represents interests in one non-money market portfolio; the Bear Stearns Family represents interests in one non-money market portfolio; the Marvin & Palmer Family represents interests in one non-money market portfolio; and the Abundance Technologies Family represents interest in three non-money market portfolios.
Each share that represents an interest in a Fund has an equal proportionate interest in the assets belonging to such Fund with each other share that represents an interest in such Fund, even where a share has a different class designation than another share representing an interest in that Fund. Shares of the Company do not have preemptive or conversion rights. When issued for payment as described in the Prospectus, shares of the Company will be fully paid and non-assessable.
The Company does not currently intend to hold annual meetings of shareholders except as required by the 1940 Act or other applicable law. The Companys amended By-Laws provide that shareholders collectively owning at least ten percent of the outstanding shares of all classes of Common Stock of the Company have the right to call for a meeting of shareholders to consider the removal of one or more directors. To the extent required by law, the Company will assist in shareholder communication in such matters.
Holders of shares of each class of the Company will vote in the aggregate and not by class on all matters, except where otherwise required by law. Further, shareholders of the Company will vote in the aggregate and not by portfolio except as otherwise required by law or when the Board of Directors determines that the matter to be voted upon affects only the interests of the shareholders of a particular portfolio. Rule 18f-2 under the 1940 Act provides that any matter required to be submitted by the provisions of such Act or applicable state law, or otherwise, to the holders of the outstanding voting securities, as defined in the 1940 Act, of an investment company such as the Company shall not be deemed to have been effectively acted upon unless approved by the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of each portfolio affected by the matter. Rule 18f-2 further provides that a portfolio shall be deemed to be affected by a matter unless it is clear that the interests of each portfolio in the matter are identical or that the matter does not affect any interest of the portfolio. Under Rule 18f-2 the approval of an investment advisory agreement or distribution agreement or any change in a fundamental investment objective or fundamental investment policy would be effectively acted upon with respect to a portfolio only if approved by the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of such portfolio. However, the Rule also provides that the ratification of the selection of independent public accountants and the election of directors are not subject to the separate voting requirements and may be effectively acted upon by shareholders of an investment company voting without regard to a portfolio. Shareholders of the Company are entitled to one vote for each full share held (irrespective of class or portfolio) and fractional votes for fractional shares held. Voting rights are not cumulative and, accordingly, the holders of more than 50% of the aggregate shares of common stock of the Company may elect all of the Directors.
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Notwithstanding any provision of Maryland law requiring a greater vote of shares of the Companys common stock (or of any class voting as a class) in connection with any corporate action, unless otherwise provided by law (for example by Rule 18f-2 discussed above), or by the Companys Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, the Company may take or authorize such action upon the favorable vote of the holders of more than 50% of all of the outstanding shares of Common Stock voting without regard to class (or portfolio).
Shareholder Approvals. As used in this SAI and in the Prospectuses, shareholder approval and a majority of the outstanding shares of the Funds means, with respect to the approval of the advisory agreement, Distribution Plan or a change in the Funds investment objective or a fundamental investment limitation, the lesser of (1) 67% of the shares of the Funds represented at a meeting at which the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Funds are present in person or by proxy, or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Funds.
Counsel
The law firm of Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, One Logan Square, 18 th and Cherry Streets, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-6996, serves as independent counsel to the Company and the Disinterested Directors.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
serves as the Funds independent registered public accounting firm, and in that capacity will audit the Funds financial statements beginning with the fiscal year ending August 31, 2007.
The Funds have not commenced investment operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore do not have audited financial statements.
53
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES RATINGS
Short-Term Credit Ratings
A Standard & Poors short-term issue credit rating is a current opinion of the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation having an original maturity of no more than 365 days. The following summarizes the rating categories used by Standard & Poors for short-term issues:
A-1 Obligations are rated in the highest category and indicate that the obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on these obligations is extremely strong.
A-2 The obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is satisfactory. Obligations are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in the higher rating categories.
A-3 Obligor has adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
B An obligation is regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties which could lead to the obligors inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. Ratings of B1, B-2 and B-3 may be assigned to indicate finer distinction within the B category.
C Obligations are currently vulnerable to nonpayment and are dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
D Obligations are in payment default. This rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless Standard & Poors believes that such payments will be made during such grace period. The D rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized.
Local Currency and Foreign Currency RisksCountry risk considerations are a standard part of Standard & Poors analysis for credit ratings on any issuer or issue. Currency of repayment is a key factor in this analysis. An obligors capacity to repay foreign currency obligations may be lower than its capacity to repay obligations in its local currency due to the sovereign governments own relatively lower capacity to repay external versus domestic debt. These sovereign risk considerations are incorporated in the debt ratings assigned to specific issues. Foreign Currency issuer ratings are also distinguished from local currency issuer ratings to identify those instances where sovereign risks make them different for the same issuer.
A-1
Moodys Investors Service (Moodys) short-term ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers to honor short-term financial obligations. Ratings may be assigned to issuers, short-term programs or to individual short-term debt instruments. Such obligations generally have an original maturity not exceeding thirteen months, unless explicitly noted.
Moodys employs the following designations to indicate the relative repayment ability of rated issuers:
P-1 Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-1 have a superior ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
P-2 Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-2 have a strong ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
P-3 Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-3 have an acceptable ability to repay short-term obligations.
NP Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating categories.
Fitch, Inc. / Fitch Ratings Ltd. (Fitch) short-term ratings scale applies to foreign currency and local currency ratings. A short-term rating has a time horizon of less than 13 months for most obligations, or up to three years for U.S. public finance, in line with industry standards, to reflect unique risk characteristics of bond, tax, and revenue anticipation notes that are commonly issued with terms up to three years. Short-term ratings thus place greater emphasis on the liquidity necessary to meet financial commitments in a timely manner. The following summarizes the rating categories used by Fitch for short-term obligations:
F1 Securities possess the highest credit quality. This designation indicates the strongest capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; may have an added + to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.
F2 Securities possess good credit quality. This designation indicates 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.
F3 Securities possess fair credit quality. This designation indicates that the capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate; however, near term adverse changes could result in a reduction to non investment grade.
B Securities possess speculative credit quality. This designation indicates minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus vulnerability to near term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.
A-2
C Securities possess high default risk. Default is a real possibility. This designation indicates a capacity for meeting financial commitments which is solely reliant upon a sustained, favorable business and economic environment.
D Indicates an entity or sovereign that has defaulted on all of its financial obligations.
NR This designation indicates that Fitch does not publicly rate the associated issuer or issue.
WD This designation indicates that the rating has been withdrawn and is no longer maintained by Fitch.
The following summarizes the ratings used by Dominion Bond Rating Service Limited (DBRS) for commercial paper and short-term debt:
R-1 (high) Short-term debt rated R-1 (high) is of the highest credit quality, and indicates an entity possessing unquestioned ability to repay current liabilities as they fall due. Entities rated in this category normally maintain strong liquidity positions, conservative debt levels, and profitability that is both stable and above average. Companies achieving an R-1 (high) rating are normally leaders in structurally sound industry segments with proven track records, sustainable positive future results, and no substantial qualifying negative factors. Given the extremely tough definition DBRS has established for an R-1 (high), few entities are strong enough to achieve this rating.
R-1 (middle) Short-term debt rated R-1 (middle) is of superior credit quality and, in most cases, ratings in this category differ from R-1 (high) credits by only a small degree. Given the extremely tough definition DBRS has established for the R-1 (high) category, entities rated R-1 (middle) are also considered strong credits, and typically exemplify above average strength in key areas of consideration for the timely repayment of short-term liabilities.
R-1 (low) Short-term debt rated R-1 (low) is of satisfactory credit quality. The overall strength and outlook for key liquidity, debt and profitability ratios are not normally as favorable as with higher rating categories, but these considerations are still respectable. Any qualifying negative factors that exist are considered manageable, and the entity is normally of sufficient size to have some influence in its industry.
R-2 (high) Short-term debt rated R-2 (high) is considered to be at the upper end of adequate credit quality. The ability to repay obligations as they mature remains acceptable, although the overall strength and outlook for key liquidity, debt, and profitability ratios is not as strong as credits rated in the R-1 (low) category. Relative to the latter category, other shortcomings often include areas such as stability, financial flexibility, and the relative size and market position of the entity within its industry.
R-2 (middle) Short-term debt rated R-2 (middle) is considered to be of adequate credit quality. Relative to the R-2 (high) category, entities rated R-2 (middle) typically have some combination of higher volatility, weaker debt or liquidity positions, lower future cash flow capabilities, or are negatively impacted by a weaker industry. Ratings in this category would be more vulnerable to adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.
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R-2 (low) Short-term debt rated R-2 (low) is considered to be at the lower end of adequate credit quality, typically having some combination of challenges that are not acceptable for an R-2 (middle) credit. However, R-2 (low) ratings still display a level of credit strength that allows for a higher rating than the R-3 category, with this distinction often reflecting the issuers liquidity profile.
R-3 Short-term debt rated R-3 is considered to be at the lowest end of adequate credit quality, one step up from being speculative. While not yet defined as speculative, the R-3 category signifies that although repayment is still expected, the certainty of repayment could be impacted by a variety of possible adverse developments, many of which would be outside the issuers control. Entities in this area often have limited access to capital markets and may also have limitations in securing alternative sources of liquidity, particularly during periods of weak economic conditions.
R-4 Short-term debt rated R-4 is speculative. R-4 credits tend to have weak liquidity and debt ratios, and the future trend of these ratios is also unclear. Due to its speculative nature, companies with R-4 ratings would normally have very limited access to alternative sources of liquidity. Earnings and cash flow would typically be very unstable, and the level of overall profitability of the entity is also likely to be low. The industry environment may be weak, and strong negative qualifying factors are also likely to be present.
R-5 Short-tern debt rated R-5 is highly speculative. There is a reasonably high level of uncertainty as to the ability of the entity to repay the obligations on a continuing basis in the future, especially in periods of economic recession or industry adversity. In some cases, short term debt rated R-5 may have challenges that if not corrected, could lead to default.
D A security rated D implies the issuer has either not met a scheduled payment or the issuer has made it clear that it will be missing such a payment in the near future. In some cases, DBRS may not assign a D rating under a bankruptcy announcement scenario, as allowances for grace periods may exist in the underlying legal documentation. Once assigned, the D rating will continue as long as the missed payment continues to be in arrears, and until such time as the rating is suspended, discontinued, or reinstated by DBRS.
Long-Term Credit Ratings
The following summarizes the ratings used by Standard & Poors for long-term issues:
AAA An obligation rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poors. The obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is extremely strong.
AA An obligation rated AA differs from the highest-rated obligations only to a small degree. The obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is very strong.
A An obligation rated A is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligors capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is still strong.
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BBB An obligation rated BBB exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
Obligations rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
BB An obligation rated BB is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead to the obligors inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
B An obligation rated B is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated BB, but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair the obligors capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
CCC An obligation rated CCC is currently vulnerable to nonpayment, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
CC An obligation rated CC is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment.
C A subordinated debt or preferred stock obligation rated C is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment. The C rating may be used to cover a situation where a bankruptcy petition has been filed or similar action taken, but payments on this obligation are being continued. A C also will be assigned to a preferred stock issue in arrears on dividends or sinking fund payments, but that is currently paying.
D An obligation rated D is in payment default. The D rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless Standard & Poors believes that such payments will be made during such grace period. The D rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized.
Plus (+) or minus (-) The ratings from AA to CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
NR This indicates that no rating has been requested, that there is insufficient information on which to base a rating, or that Standard & Poors does not rate a particular obligation as a matter of policy.
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Local Currency and Foreign Currency Risks Country risk considerations are a standard part of Standard & Poors analysis for credit ratings on any issuer or issue. Currency of repayment is a key factor in this analysis. An obligors capacity to repay foreign currency obligations may be lower than its capacity to repay obligations in its local currency due to the sovereign governments own relatively lower capacity to repay external versus domestic debt. These sovereign risk considerations are incorporated in the debt ratings assigned to specific issues. Foreign currency issuer ratings are also distinguished from local currency issuer ratings to identify those instances where sovereign risks make them different for the same issuer.
The following summarizes the ratings used by Moodys for long-term debt:
Aaa Obligations rated Aaa are judged to be of the highest quality, with minimal credit risk.
Aa Obligations rated Aa are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.
A Obligations rated A are considered upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.
Baa Obligations rated Baa are subject to moderate credit risk. They are considered medium-grade and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics.
Ba Obligations rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements and are subject to substantial credit risk.
B Obligations rated B are considered speculative and are subject to high credit risk.
Caa Obligations rated Caa are judged to be of poor standing and are subject to very high credit risk.
Ca Obligations rated Ca are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect of recovery of principal and interest.
C Obligations rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.
Note: Moodys appends numerical modifiers 1, 2, and 3 to each generic rating classification from Aa through Caa. The modifier 1 indicates that the obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of that generic rating category.
The following summarizes long-term ratings used by Fitch:
AAA Securities considered to be of the highest credit quality. AAA ratings denote the lowest expectation of credit risk. They are assigned only in case of exceptionally strong capacity for
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payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.
AA Securities considered to be of very high credit quality. AA ratings denote expectations of very low credit risk. They indicate very strong capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.
A Securities considered to be of high credit quality. A ratings denote expectations of low credit risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to changes in circumstances or in economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.
BBB Securities considered to be of good credit quality. BBB ratings indicate that there is currently expectations of low credit risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate but adverse changes in circumstances and economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity. This is the lowest investment grade category.
BB Securities considered to be speculative. BB ratings indicate that there is a possibility of credit risk developing, particularly as the result of adverse economic change over time; however, business or financial alternatives may be available to allow financial commitments to be met. Securities rated in this category are not investment grade.
B Securities considered to be highly speculative. B ratings indicate that significant credit risk is present, but a limited margin of safety remains. Financial commitments are currently being met; however, capacity for continued payment is contingent upon a sustained, favorable business and economic environment.
CCC, CC and C Securities have high default risk. Default is a real possibility, and capacity for meeting financial commitments is solely reliant upon sustained, favorable business or economic developments. A CC rating indicates that default of some kind appears probable. C ratings signal imminent default.
RD Indicates an entity has failed to make due payments (within the applicable grace period) on some but not all material financial obligations, but continues to honor other classes of obligations.
D Indicates an entity or sovereign that has defaulted on all of its financial obligations.
Plus (+) or minus (-) may be appended to a rating to denote relative status within major rating categories. Such suffixes are not added to the AAA category or to categories below CCC.
NR indicates that Fitch does not publicly rate the associated issue or issuer.
The following summarizes the ratings used by DBRS for long-term debt:
AAA Long-term debt rated AAA is of the highest credit quality, with exceptionally strong protection for the timely repayment of principal and interest. Earnings are considered stable, the structure
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of the industry in which the entity operates is strong, and the outlook for future profitability is favorable. There are few qualifying factors present which would detract from the performance of the entity. The strength of liquidity and coverage ratios is unquestioned and the entity has established a creditable track record of superior performance. Given the extremely high standard which DBRS has set for this category, few entities are able to achieve a AAA rating.
AA Long-term debt rated AA is of superior credit quality, and protection of interest and principal is considered high. In many cases they differ from long-term debt rated AAA only to a small degree. Given the extremely restrictive definition DBRS has for the AAA category, entities rated AA are also considered to be strong credits, typically exemplifying above-average strength in key areas of consideration and unlikely to be significantly affected by reasonably foreseeable events.
A Long-term debt rated A is of satisfactory credit quality. Protection of interest and principal is still substantial, but the degree of strength is less than that of AA rated entities. While A is a respectable rating, entities in this category are considered to be more susceptible to adverse economic conditions and have greater cyclical tendencies than higher-rated securities.
BBB Long-term debt rated BBB is of adequate credit quality. Protection of interest and principal is considered acceptable, but the entity is fairly susceptible to adverse changes in financial and economic conditions, or there may be other adverse conditions present which reduce the strength of the entity and its rated securities.
BB Long-term debt rated BB is defined to be speculative and non-investment grade, where the degree of protection afforded interest and principal is uncertain, particularly during periods of economic recession. Entities in the BB range typically have limited access to capital markets and additional liquidity support. In many cases, deficiencies in critical mass, diversification, and competitive strength are additional negative considerations.
B Long-term debt rated B is highly speculative and there is a reasonably high level of uncertainty as to the ability of the entity to pay interest and principal on a continuing basis in the future, especially in periods of economic recession or industry adversity.
CCC, CC and C Long-term debt rated in any of these categories is very highly speculative and is in danger of default of interest and principal. The degree of adverse elements present is more severe than long-term debt rated B. Long-term debt rated below B often have features which, if not remedied, may lead to default. In practice, there is little difference between these three categories, with CC and C normally used for lower ranking debt of companies for which the senior debt is rated in the CCC to B range.
D A security rated D implies the issuer has either not met a scheduled payment of interest or principal or that the issuer has made it clear that it will miss such a payment in the near future. In some cases, DBRS may not assign a D rating under a bankruptcy announcement scenario, as allowances for grace periods may exist in the underlying legal documentation. Once assigned, the D rating will continue as long as the missed payment continues to be in arrears, and until such time as the rating is suspended, discontinued or reinstated by DBRS.
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(high, low) Each rating category is denoted by the subcategories high and low. The absence of either a high or low designation indicates the rating is in the middle of the category. The AAA and D categories do not utilize high, middle, and low as differential grades.
Municipal Note Ratings
A Standard & Poors U.S. municipal note rating reflects the liquidity factors 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:
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Amortization schedule-the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note; and |
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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. |
Note rating symbols are as follows:
SP-1 The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit a strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Those issues determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service are given a plus (+) designation.
SP-2 The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit a satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the notes.
SP-3 The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.
Moodys uses three rating categories for short-term municipal obligations that are considered investment grade. These ratings are designated as Municipal Investment Grade (MIG) and are divided into three levels MIG-1 through MIG-3. In addition, those short-term obligations that are of speculative quality are designated SG, or speculative grade. MIG ratings expire at the maturity of the obligation. The following summarizes the ratings used by Moodys for these short-term obligations:
MIG-1 This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.
MIG-2 This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.
MIG-3 This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access for refinancing is likely to be less well-established.
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SG This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Debt instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.
In the case of variable rate demand obligations (VRDOs), a two-component rating is assigned; a long- or short-term debt rating and a demand obligation rating. The first element represents Moodys evaluation of the degree of risk associated with scheduled principal and interest payments. The second element represents Moodys evaluation of the degree of risk associated with the ability to receive purchase price upon demand (demand feature), using a variation of the MIG rating scale, the Variable Municipal Investment Grade or VMIG rating.
When either the long- or short-term aspect of a VRDO is not rated, that piece is designated NR, e.g., Aaa/NR or NR/VMIG-1.
VMIG rating expirations are a function of each issues specific structural or credit features.
VMIG-1 This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by the superior short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
VMIG-2 This designation denotes strong credit quality. Good protection is afforded by the strong short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
VMIG-3 This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Adequate protection is afforded by the satisfactory short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
SG This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Demand features rated in this category may be supported by a liquidity provider that does not have an investment grade short-term rating or may lack the structural and/or legal protections necessary to ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
Fitch uses the same ratings for municipal securities as described above for other short-term credit ratings.
About Credit Ratings
A Standard & Poors issue credit rating is a current opinion of the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation, a specific class of financial obligations, or a specific financial program (including ratings on medium-term note programs and commercial paper programs). It takes into consideration the creditworthiness of guarantors, insurers, or other forms of credit enhancement on the obligation and takes into account the currency in which the obligation is denominated. The issue credit rating is not a recommendation to purchase, sell, or hold a financial obligation, inasmuch as it does not comment as to market price or suitability for a particular investor.
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Moodys credit ratings must be construed solely as statements of opinion and not as statements of fact or recommendations to purchase, sell or hold any securities.
Fitchs credit ratings provide an opinion on the relative ability of an entity to meet financial commitments, such as interest, preferred dividends, repayment of principal, insurance claims or counterparty obligations. Fitch credit ratings are used by investors as indications of the likelihood of receiving their money back in accordance with the terms on which they invested. Fitchs credit ratings cover the global spectrum of corporate, sovereign (including supranational and sub-national), financial, bank, insurance, municipal and other public finance entities and the securities or other obligations they issue, as well as structured finance securities backed by receivables or other financial assets.
DBRS credit ratings are not buy, hold or sell recommendations, but rather the result of qualitative and quantitative analysis focusing solely on the credit quality of the issuer and its underlying obligations.
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PROXY POLICY STATEMENT
INTRODUCTION
STATEMENT OF POLICY
Abundance Technologies, Inc. views the fiduciary act of managing plan assets to include the voting of proxies appurtenant to shares held in the plan. As a rule, Abundance Technologies, Inc. strives to ensure that all proxies are received from the custodian in a timely manner and then exercises its right to vote all proxies. In keeping with the ERISA definition of fiduciary responsibility and the Department of Labor directives, all proxy voting decisions are made solely in the best interest of the clients plan participants and beneficiaries.
This document represents what the firm believes to be important elements of sound corporate governance and social responsibility. In our opinion, good corporate governance should maintain an appropriate balance between the rights of shareholders (the owners of the corporation) and the needs of management to direct the corporations affairs devoid of distracting short-term pressures. As a responsible long term investment manager, Abundance Technologies, Inc. acknowledges its responsibility to strive for improved corporate governance and performance discipline. Abundance Technologies, Inc. offers this policy as a basis for dialogue with the objective of improving corporate governance and social practices. This statement identifies Abundance Technologies voting guidelines on numerous proxy issues. These guidelines are not an exhaustive list of every issue that may arise. Proxy issues that are not described herein will be considered in light of the relevant facts and circumstances.
CRITERIA AND STANDARDS
Each proxy issue is reviewed on its own merits, on a case-by-case basis. Every proxy voting decision, whether on Corporate Governance or Social Issues, is made with the exclusive purpose of maximizing the economic value of the clients investment. Abundance Technologies, Inc. gives special consideration to out of the ordinary matters and may vote against management on specific issues which are deemed to impair shareholder rights or value. Furthermore, Abundance Technologies, Inc. would oppose any proposal which would entrench or protect management interest contrary to the financial interests of the stockholder.
PROXY ADMINISTRATION
The portfolio manager and compliance officer are primarily responsible for monitoring corporate actions, making voting decisions and ensuring that proxies are submitted timely, consistent with this policy. Abundance Technologies, Inc. may form special committees, from time to time, to address unusual proxy voting issues or conflicts.
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All conflicts of interest will be resolved in the interest of the clients. Occasionally, Abundance Technologies, Inc. may be subject to conflicts of interest in the voting of proxies due to business or personal relationships it maintains with persons having an interest in the outcome of certain votes. In situations where Abundance Technologies, Inc. perceives a material conflict of interest, Abundance Technologies, Inc. may disclose the conflict to the relevant clients; defer to the voting recommendation of the clients or of an independent third party provider of proxy services; send the proxy directly to the clients for a voting decision; abstain from voting; or take such other action in good faith, in consultation with counsel, to determine the appropriate method to resolve the conflict in the interest of clients, based upon the particular facts and circumstances. With respect to investment company clients, conflicts may arise as to votes involving the investment adviser, the underwriter, their affiliates or affiliates of the investment company. In such cases, Abundance Technologies, Inc. will follow the voting guidelines described herein, including the process for handling conflicts. Under normal circumstances, if a conflict is determined not to be material, Abundance Technologies, Inc. will vote the proxy in accordance with this policy. The method selected by Abundance Technologies, Inc. to vote proxies in the presence of a conflict may vary depending upon the facts and circumstances of each situation and the requirements of applicable law.
I. | CORPORATE GOVERNANCE: |
A. | BOARD OF DIRECTORS : |
A companys board of directors represents the focal point of corporate governance. The board is a group of elected individuals which oversees the operation and direction of the company on behalf of its owners. The principal responsibility of the board is to further the long term success of the corporation while remaining true to its fiduciary responsibility to the shareholders. Abundance Technologies, Inc. supports the primary authority of the board; however, at the same time, the firm believes that directors must remain accountable to the shareholders. Consequently, Abundance Technologies guidelines are as follows:
1. | Election of Directors: While Abundance Technologies, Inc. normally votes for the boards nominees, the firm may decline to vote for unopposed candidates when their record indicates that their election to the board would not be in the interest of shareholders. Likewise, Abundance Technologies, Inc. may vote for alternative candidates when its analysis indicates that these candidates will better represent shareholder interests. |
2. | Independent Directors: In Abundance Technologies opinion, the ideal board should be comprised primarily of independent (non-management) directors who are both willing and qualified to serve in such capacity. In this context, independence means no present or former employment by the company or its management which could interfere with the directors loyalty to the shareholders. |
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Cumulative Voting: This voting procedure entitles each stockholder to as many votes as shall equal the number of shares owned multiplied by the number of directors to be elected. Such votes may all be cast for a single candidate or for any two or more as the stockholder sees fit. Abundance |
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Technologies, Inc. believes this method is an important democratic means of electing directors and allows shareholders to obtain representation on the board by significant vote. Consequently, Abundance Technologies, Inc. generally supports the practice of cumulative voting. |
4. | Classified Board: A classified board is a staggered board arrangement in which each director is elected for an established term of two, three, or four years, depending on the number of classes established. Only those directors in the class up for election can be approved or rejected by shareholders in any given year. In Abundance Technologies opinion, a classified board serves to entrench management and limit shareholders ability to effect favorable change. Consequently, Abundance Technologies, Inc. generally opposes classified boards. |
5. | Director Liability and Indemnification: A proper director liability policy should balance the need to hold directors accountable for improper actions with the need to attract competent and diligent individuals for board positions. The Corporation should be free to indemnify directors for legal expenses and judgments in connection with their service as directors and eliminate the directors liability for ordinary negligence. However, directors should be held liable to the corporation for violations of their fiduciary duty involving gross negligence. Similarly, proposals that indemnify directors who have committed fraud or dereliction of duty would be opposed. |
6. | Director Compensation: Normally, the remuneration of Directors is considered a routine item of business. Therefore, it is not usually submitted for a shareholder vote. However, non-employee director compensation has become a shareholder issue recently. Generally, Abundance Technologies, Inc. would prefer to see more of the directors compensation based upon shareholder returns as measured by stock price appreciation or some other meaningful performance measure. Furthermore, Abundance Technologies, Inc. encourages corporations to phase out pension or retirement plans for their non-employee directors. Most non-employee directors have retirement benefits from their primary employer; however, Abundance Technologies, Inc. recognizes that a blanket vote to eliminate all such retirement plans could negatively impact a companys access to potentially valuable directors. Consequently, Abundance Technologies, Inc. will not vote in favor of unilaterally eliminating retirement benefits. |
7. | General: Abundance Technologies, Inc. recognizes the responsibilities of the board to organize its function and conduct its business in an efficient manner. Therefore, barring unusual circumstances, Abundance Technologies, Inc. would favor management proposals related to board size and oppose shareholder resolutions calling for the separation of the CEO and Chairman positions, establishing age limits for directors, special interest representation, and the formation of shareholder advisory committees, or term limits for directors. Abundance Technologies, Inc. is also against restricting the date or location of the annual meeting. |
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CAPITALIZATION ISSUES: Capitalization related proposals pertain to the creation, repurchase, or reclassification of securities. Abundance Technologies, |
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Inc. may support the authorization of additional stock if management provides a satisfactory explanation of its plans for the stock; however, Abundance Technologies, Inc. will oppose large unexplained increases in common stock. Abundance Technologies, Inc. will also oppose the issuance of blank check preferred or convertible stock which could potentially be used as a takeover deterrent or dilute/jeopardize the clients common stock ownership. |
1. | Increase Authorized Common Stock: Abundance Technologies, Inc. considers a proposal to increase the number of authorized but unissued shares of common stock on case-by-case basis. Abundance Technologies, Inc. takes into account the size of the requested increase, its stated purpose, and how much authorized but unissued common stock remains. The firm generally supports a stock split or a reasonable replenishment after a stock split. Likewise, Abundance Technologies, Inc. may approve an increase to support a shareholder value enhancing acquisition, to provide the necessary flexibility to maintain an optimal capital structure, or to fund stock option and stock purchase plans. Requests to significantly increase the number of authorized shares (those resulting in greater than 10% dilution) without a stated reason or demonstrated need would be opposed. Similarly, Abundance Technologies, Inc. would oppose an increase when additional shares are to be used for anti-takeover measures. |
2. | Authorize Blank Check Preferred Stock: This proposal would grant authority to the board to create and issue a new class of preferred stock with unspecified terms and conditions. Blank check preferred stock could be granted special voting rights and be used to entrench management or deter takeover attempts. Abundance Technologies, Inc. generally opposes proposals to vest the board with such power. |
3. | Authorize Convertible Stock: Abundance Technologies, Inc. would review the rationale on a case-by-case basis taking into account the companys current capitalization structure, the stated purpose for the security and the potential dilution effect this security would have on existing common shareholders upon conversion. Abundance Technologies, Inc. would oppose any request which is blank check in nature, where the companys rationale is unclear, and where the request appears to blunt possible takeover attempts. |
C. | SHAREHOLDERS RIGHTS AND PROXY VOTING: The proxy vote is the key mechanism by which shareholders render their opinion in corporate governance. In exercising its votes, Abundance Technologies, Inc. believes: |
1. | Confidential Voting should be adopted by all corporations on all matters brought before the shareholders. Such provisions would protect the importance of the proxy vote and eliminate the appearance of any impropriety. |
2. | Multiple Classes of Common Stock with disparate voting rights should not exist. Rather, the board should adhere to the principle of one share-one vote. |
3. | Super-majority rules or requirements which interfere with the shareholders right to elect directors and ratify corporate actions should be opposed. |
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4. | Changes in Corporations Domicile should only be proposed for valid business reasons, not to obtain protection against unfriendly takeovers. |
5. | Change of Control occurs when a third party becomes, or obtains the right to become, the beneficial owner of Company securities having 50% or more of the combined voting power of the then outstanding securities of the company. Change of Control also would occur when the directors prior to a given event cease to constitute a majority of the Board as a result of the event. |
6. | Fair Price Provisions and measures to limit the corporations ability to buy back shares from a particular shareholder at higher than market prices are generally supported. |
7. | Pre-emptive Rights allow shareholders the option to buy part of any new issue prior to its public offering. This provision allows existing shareholders to maintain their original ownership percentage. However, pre-emptive rights often raise the cost of capital by increasing both the time and expense of issuing new shares. Therefore, pre-emptive rights should generally be eliminated, except where Abundance Technologies analysis concludes such rights have value to the shareholders. |
8. | Anti-Takeover measures should be submitted for shareholder approval. Abundance Technologies, Inc. is generally against such measures. |
9. | Bundled Proposals: Occasionally management will attempt to tie a non-routine issue to one that is routine, attempting to pass both items in the form of a bundled proposal. Disparate issues should not be combined and presented for a single vote. Such proposals are generally not well received and must be carefully reviewed on a case-by-case basis. |
10. | Special Meetings of the Board of Directors, on such issues as takeovers and changes in the make-up of the Board, by its shareholders is permitted at most companies. Abundance Technologies, Inc. is generally against limitations on the calling of Special Meetings. |
D. | EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION: The board and its compensation committee should set executive compensation levels adequate to attract and retain qualified executives. These managers should be rewarded in direct relationship to the contribution they make in maximizing shareholder value. Abundance Technologies, Inc. readily admits it is not qualified to thoroughly evaluate the specific issues of executive compensation for each of its portfolio holdings; however the firm does evaluate the reasonableness of compensation policies, criteria and formulas. Likewise, Abundance Technologies, Inc. decides what constitutes adequate disclosure of executive compensation. Abundance Technologies, Inc. generally supports sound pay for performance plans which ensure equitable treatment of both corporate management and shareholders. Compensation should include both salary and performance components. The salary should have a defined relationship to salaries in an industry peer group. Similarly, performance measures should relate to key industry success measurements and be judged over adequate time periods. |
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Incentive Plans should be set forth annually in the proxy statement. The criteria used to evaluate the performance of senior executives should be clearly stated. Terms of the awards, such as type, coverage and option price should be specified. Excess discretion will not be approved. |
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Abundance Technologies, Inc. generally supports management if the company defines their performance goals. However, Abundance Technologies, Inc. opposes incentive plans where no specific goals are defined. Without specific performance goals, there is no assurance that awards will be paid based upon realistic performance criteria. Abundance Technologies, Inc. also votes against plans where performance hurdles are, in its opinion, set too low. Total potential dilution from existing and proposed compensation plans should not exceed 10% over the duration of the plan(s). Finally, Abundance Technologies, Inc. generally opposes plans which grant reload options (favorable repricing of options) or where options become immediately exercisable following a change of control defined as anything less than 50%. |
2. | Stock/Stock Option Plans: Abundance Technologies, Inc. generally votes against a plan if the exercise price is unspecified or below 90% of the fair market value on the date of the grant. |
3. | Golden Parachutes should always be put to shareholder vote because they often exceed ordinary compensation practices. We are generally against Golden Parachutes. |
E. | ROUTINE CORPORATE ISSUES: Proposals in this category, which have been seen repeatedly on an historical basis, are usually non-controversial. Generally, these issues revolve around items that are related to the normal operating procedures of the company. Abundance Technologies, Inc., however, votes against a management proposal to approve any other business that properly comes before the meeting. As a fiduciary, Abundance Technologies, Inc. opposes any attempt by management to get a blanket approval without full disclosure. Conversely, each of the proposals listed below are generally supported, unless compelling reasons exist to question why it is not in the best interest of shareholders. |
1. | Appointment of Auditors |
2. | Corporate Name and/or Ticker Change |
3. | Approval of Articles of Incorporation |
4. | Changes to the Articles of Incorporation |
5. | Changes in the Date, Time and/or Location of Annual Meeting |
6. | Stock Splits |
7. | Acceptance of Directors Report |
8. | Approval of Corporate Dividend |
II. | SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY ISSUES: Abundance Technologies, Inc. acknowledges its duty both as a corporate citizen and as a manager of investment funds to address important social issues. The intention of our firm is not to impose its moral or social views upon clients. Nor should Abundance Technologies, Inc. restrict in any way the day-to-day operating procedures of a corporation unless, in so doing, the economic value of the clients investment is enhanced. |
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DOCUMENTATION OF VOTING DECISIONS
Abundance Technologies, Inc. maintains accurate records of each corporate proxy received and voted along with documentation of the proxy voting decisions on each issue. The records will be retained for such period of time as is required to comply with applicable laws and regulations.
REPORTING
In order to facilitate a clients monitoring of proxy decisions made and actions taken by Abundance Technologies, Inc., a report summarizing each corporate issue and corresponding proxy vote is available to clients upon request.
B-7
THE RBB FUND, INC.
PEA 112
PART C: OTHER INFORMATION
Item 23. | EXHIBITS |
(a) |
Articles of Incorporation. | |||
(1) |
Articles of Incorporation of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 24, 1988, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(2) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 24, 1988, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(3) |
Articles of Amendment to Articles of Incorporation of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 12, 1988, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(4) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 12, 1988, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(5) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on April 27, 1990, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(6) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 4 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 1, 1990, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(7) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 15, 1992, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(8) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 8 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 22, 1992, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(9) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1993, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(10) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1993, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(11) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 22 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 19, 1994, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. |
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(12) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 22 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 19, 1994, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(13) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 22 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 19, 1994, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(14) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 22 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 19, 1994, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(15) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 27 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 31, 1995. | |||
(16) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 1996. | |||
(17) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 39 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 11, 1996. | |||
(18) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 9, 1997. | |||
(19) |
Articles of Amendment to Charter of the Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 46 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 25, 1997. | |||
(20) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 46 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 25, 1997. | |||
(21) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(22) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(23) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(24) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(25) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 67 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 30, 1999. | |||
(26) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 69 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 29, 1999. | |||
(27) |
Articles of Amendment to Charter of the Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2000. | |||
(28) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2000. | |||
(29) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2000. | |||
(30) |
Articles of Amendment to Charter of the Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2000. |
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(31) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 73 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 15, 2001. | |||
(32) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant ( Boston Partners Bond Fund - Institutional Class and Boston Partners Bond Fund Investor Class ) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 77 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 15, 2002. | |||
(33) |
Articles of Amendment to Charter of the Registrant ( Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund - Institutional Class and Boston Partners Bond Fund - Institutional Class ) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 77 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 15, 2002. | |||
(34) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant ( Schneider Value Fund ) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 78 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 2002. | |||
(35) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant ( Baker 500 Growth Fund - Institutional Class and Class S ) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 79 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 18, 2002. | |||
(36) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant ( Institutional Liquidity Fund for Credit Unions and Liquidity Fund for Credit Union Members ) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 84 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2003. | |||
(37) |
Articles of Amendment to Charter of the Registrant are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 89 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 30, 2004. | |||
(38) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant (( Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Investor Class, Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Institutional Class, Robeco WPG Tudor Fund - Institutional Class, Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund Institutional Class ) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 93 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 4, 2005. | |||
(39) |
Certificate of Correction of Registrant is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 95 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 2005. | |||
(40) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant ( Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Investor Class, Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Institutional Class, Robeco WPG Tudor Fund Institutional Class, Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund Institutional Class ) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 95 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 2005. | |||
(41) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant ( Senbanc Fund) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 96 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on June 6, 2005. | |||
(42) |
Articles of Amendment of Registrant ( Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Retirement Class) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on August 19, 2005. | |||
(43) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant ( Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Investor Class) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 99 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 27, 2005. | |||
(44) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant (Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 104 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No.33-20827) filed on July 18, 2006. | |||
(45) |
Articles of Amendment of Registrant (Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No.33-20827) filed on December 14, 2006. | |||
(46) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant (Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. |
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(47) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant (Marvin & Palmer Large Cap Growth Fund) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. | |||
(48) |
Articles of Amendment of Registrant (Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 111 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on February 28, 2007. | |||
(49) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 111 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on February 28, 2007. | |||
(50) |
Articles Supplementary of Registrant (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) are filed herewith. | |||
(b) |
By-Laws. | |||
(1) |
By-Laws, as amended are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 89 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 30, 2004. | |||
(c) |
Instruments Defining Rights of Security Holders. | |||
(1) |
See Articles VI, VII, VIII, IX and XI of Registrants Articles of 1 Incorporation dated February 17, 1988 which are incorporated herein by reference to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 24, 1988, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(2) |
See Articles II, III, VI, XIII, and XIV of Registrants By-Laws as amended through August 25, 2004, which are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 89 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 30, 2004. | |||
(d) |
Investment Advisory Contracts. | |||
(1) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (Money Market) between Registrant and Provident Institutional Management Corporation, dated as of August 16, 1988 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 1989, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(2) |
Sub-Advisory Agreement (Money Market) between Provident Institutional Management Corporation and Provident National Bank, dated as of August 16, 1988 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 1989, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(3) |
Assumption Agreement (Money Market Fund) between PNC Bank, N.A. and BlackRock Institutional Management Corporation (formerly PNC Institutional Management Corporation) dated April 29, 1998 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 67 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 30, 1999. | |||
(4) |
Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement (Boston Partners Large Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, L.P. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 105 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 30, 2006. | |||
(5) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, L.P. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 83 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on April 8, 2003. | |||
(6) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (Schneider Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and Schneider Capital Management Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. |
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(7) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II (formerly Micro Cap Value)) between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, L.P. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 83 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on April 8, 2003. | |||
(8) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund (formerly Market Neutral)) between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, L.P. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 83 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on April 8, 2003. | |||
(9) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (Bogle Small Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and Bogle Investment Management, L.P. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 67 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 30, 1999. | |||
(10) |
Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement (Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, L.P. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 105 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 30, 2006. | |||
(11) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (Schneider Value Fund) between Registrant and Schneider Capital Management Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(12) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (n/i Growth Fund) between Registrant and Numeric Investors LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 96 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on June 6, 2005. | |||
(13) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (n/i Emerging Growth Fund) between Registrant and Numeric Investors LLC incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 96 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on June 6, 2005. | |||
(14) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (n/i Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and Numeric Investors LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 96 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on June 6, 2005. | |||
(15) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (n/i Mid Cap Fund) between Registrant and Numeric Investors LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 96 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on June 6, 2005. | |||
(16) |
Amendment No. 1 to Investment Advisory Agreement (n/i Mid Cap Fund ) between Registrant and Numeric Investors LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 96 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on June 6, 2005. | |||
(17) |
Amendment No. 1 to Investment Advisory Agreement (n/i Growth Fund ) between Registrant and Numeric Investors LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on August 19, 2005. | |||
(18) |
Amendment No. 1 to Investment Advisory Agreement (n/i Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and Numeric Investors LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on August 19, 2005. | |||
(19) |
Amendment No. 2 to Investment Advisory Agreement (n/i Mid Cap Fund) between Registrant and Numeric Investors LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on August 19, 2005. | |||
(20) |
Investment Advisory Agreement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund) between Registrant and Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 98 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on August 30, 2005. |
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(21) | Investment Advisory Agreement (Senbanc Fund) dated August 31, 2005 between Registrant and Hilliard Lyons Research Advisors is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 99 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 27, 2005. | |||
(22) | Investment Advisory Agreement (Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(23) | Investment Advisory Agreement (Robeco WPG Tudor Fund) between Registrant and Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(24) | Contractual Fee Waiver Agreement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund, Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund and Robeco WPG Tudor Fund) dated April 29, 2005 between Registrant and Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(25) | Investment Advisory Agreement (Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio ) between Registrant and Bear Stearns Asset Management Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No.33-20827) filed on December 14, 2006. | |||
(26) | Interim Investment Advisory and Administration Agreement (Money Market Portfolio) between Registrant and BlackRock Institutional Management Corp. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 105 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 30, 2006. | |||
(27) | Investment Advisory and Administration Agreement (Money Market Portfolio ) between Registrant and BlackRock Institutional Management Corp. is filed herewith. | |||
(28) | Investment Advisory Agreement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund ) between Registrant and Bear Stearns Asset Management Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(29) | Form of Investment Advisory Agreement (Marvin & Palmer Large Cap Growth Fund ) between Registrant and Marvin & Palmer Associates Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. | |||
(30) | Form of Investment Advisory Agreement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) between Registrant and Abundance Technologies, Inc., is filed herewith. | |||
(31) | Contractual Fee Waiver Agreement (Schneider Small Cap Value Fund) dated October 9, 2006, between Registrant and Schneider Capital Management Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 110 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2006. | |||
(32) | Contractual Fee Waiver Agreement (Schneider Value Fund) dated October 9, 2006, between Registrant and Schneider Capital Management Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 110 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2006. | |||
(33) | Contractual Fee Waiver Agreement (Bogle Small Cap Growth Fund) dated October 10, 2006, between Registrant and Schneider Capital Management Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 110 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2006. | |||
(34) | Contractual Fee Waiver Agreement (Robeco Boston Partners Large Cap Value Fund, Robeco Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II, Robeco Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund, Robeco Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund and Robeco Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund) dated October 24, 2006 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 110 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2006. |
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(35) | Contractual Fee Wavier Agreement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund, Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund, and Robeco WPG Small Cap Value Fund) dated October 24, 2006 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 110 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2006. | |||
(36) | Form of Contractual Fee Wavier Agreement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) between Registrant and Abundance Technologies, Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(37) | Assumption Agreement (Robeco Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II, Robeco Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund, Robeco Boston Partners Large Cap Value Fund, Robeco Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund, Robeco Boston Partners All - Cap Value Fund) between Boston Partners Asset Management and Robeco Investment Management, Inc. dated January 1, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 111 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on February 28, 2007. | |||
(38) | Assumption Agreement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund, Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund, and Robeco WPG Small Cap Value Fund) between Weiss, Peck, & Greer Investments and Robeco Investment Management, Inc. dated January 1, 2007 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 111 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on February 28, 2007. | |||
(e) | Underwriting Contracts. | |||
(1) | Distribution Agreement between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. dated as of January 2, 2001 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 73 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 15, 2001. | |||
(2) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund - Investor Class) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(3) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund - Institutional Class ) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(4) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Schneider Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(5) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Senbanc Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(6) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Institutional Class) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 101 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2005. | |||
(7) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund - Institutional Class) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 101 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2005. | |||
(8) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Tudor Fund - Institutional Class) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 101 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2005. | |||
(9) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund - Retirement Class) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No . 103 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 18, 2006. | |||
(10) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Investor Class) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No . 103 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 18, 2006. |
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(11) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No.33-20827) filed on December 14, 2006. | |||
(12) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(13) | Form of Distribution Agreement Supplement (Marvin & Palmer Large Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. | |||
(14) | Form of Distribution Agreement Supplement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(f) | Bonus or Profit Sharing Contracts. | |||
(1) | Fund Office Retirement Profit-Sharing and Trust Agreement, dated as of October 24, 1990, as amended is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 49 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 1, 1997. | |||
(2) | Form of Amendment No. 1 to Fund Office Retirement Profit Sharing Plan and Trust Reflecting EGTRRA is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(g) | Custodian Agreements. | |||
(1) | Custodian Agreement between Registrant and Provident National Bank dated as of August 16, 1988 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 1989, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(2) | Sub-Custodian Agreement among The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A., the Registrant and Provident National Bank, dated as of July 13, 1992, relating to custody of Registrants foreign securities is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 8 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 22, 1992, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(3) | Amendment No. 1 to Custodian Agreement dated August 16, 1988 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 15, 1992, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(4) | Custodian Contract between Registrant and State Street Bank and Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 21 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 28, 1994, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(5) | Custody Agreement (n/i Micro Cap Fund, n/i Growth Fund and n/i Mid Cap Fund (formerly Growth & Value) between Registrant and Custodial Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 1996. | |||
(6) | Custodian Agreement Supplement between Registrant and PNC Bank, National Association dated October 16, 1996 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 41 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 27, 1996. | |||
(7) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PNC Bank, National Association is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 46 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 25, 1997. |
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(8) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Bond Fund) between Registrant and PNC Bank, N.A. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 51 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 8, 1997. | |||
(9) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Schneider Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PNC Bank, N.A. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(10) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II (formerly Micro Cap Value)) between Registrant and PNC Bank, N.A. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(11) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund (formerly Market Neutral)) between Registrant and PNC Bank, N.A. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(12) | Custodian Agreement Supplement ( n/I Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and Custodial Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(13) | Form of Custodian Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Fund - formerly Long Short Equity) between Registrant and PFPC Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 65 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 19, 1999. | |||
(14) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Bogle Small Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 67 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 30, 1999. | |||
(15) | Letter Agreement among Registrant, The Chase Manhattan Bank and PFPC Trust Company, dated as of July 2, 2001, relating to custody of Registrants foreign securities is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 77 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 15, 2002. | |||
(16) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(17) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Schneider Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(18) | Custodian Agreement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund, Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund, and Robeco WPG Tudor Fund ) between Registrant and Mellon Bank N.A. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 18, 2006. | |||
(19) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Senbanc Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(20) | Custodian Agreement among Registrant, PFPC Trust Company and Citibank, N.A., dated as of September 13, 2005, relating to custody of Registrants foreign securities is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 101 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2005. | |||
(21) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio) between Registrant and PFPC Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No.33-20827) filed on December 14, 2006. | |||
(22) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Trust Company is filed herewith. |
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(23) | Form of Custodian Agreement Supplement (Marvin & Palmer Large Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. | |||
(24) | Form of Custodian Agreement Supplement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Trust Company is filed herewith. | |||
(h) | Other Material Contracts. | |||
(1) | Transfer Agency Agreement (Sansom Street) between Registrant and Provident Financial Processing Corporation, dated as of August 16, 1988 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 1989, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(2) | Shareholder Servicing Agreement (Sansom Street Money Market) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 1989, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(3) | Shareholder Servicing Agreement (Sansom Street Government Obligations Money Market) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 1989, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(4) | Shareholder Services Plan (Sansom Street Money Market) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 1989, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(5) | Transfer Agency Agreement (Bedford Money Market) between Registrant and Provident Financial Processing Corporation, dated as of August 16, 1988 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 1989, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(6) | Transfer Agency Agreement and Supplements (Bradford, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Epsilon, Zeta, Eta and Theta) between Registrant and Provident Financial Processing Corporation dated as of November 5, 1991 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 15, 1992, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(7) | Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant and State Street Bank and Trust Company and PFPC Inc. dated February 1, 1995 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 6, 1995. | |||
(8) | Supplement to Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between Registrant, State Street Bank and Trust Company, Inc. and PFPC dated April 10, 1995 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 6, 1995. | |||
(9) | Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated December 15, 1994 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 29 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 25, 1995. | |||
(10) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (n/i Micro Cap Fund, n/i Growth Fund and n/i Mid Cap Fund (formerly Growth & Value)) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. dated April 14, 1996 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 1996. |
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(11) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement ( n/i Micro Cap Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. dated April 24, 1996 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 1996. | |||
(12) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (n/i Growth Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. dated April 24, 1996 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 1996. | |||
(13) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (n/i Mid Cap Fund (formerly Growth & Value)) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. dated April 24, 1996 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 1996. | |||
(14) | Transfer Agreement and Service Agreement between Registrant and State Street Bank and Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 37 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 30, 1996. | |||
(15) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Boston Partners Large Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. dated October 16, 1996 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 9, 1997. | |||
(16) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Large Cap Value Fund, Institutional Class) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 41 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 27, 1996. | |||
(17) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Large Cap Value Fund - Investor Class) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 41 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 27, 1996. | |||
(18) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund - Institutional Class) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 46 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 25, 1997. | |||
(19) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund - Investor Class) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 46 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 25, 1997. | |||
(20) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. dated, May 30, 1997 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 46 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 25, 1997. | |||
(21) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Schneider Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(22) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Schneider Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(23) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II (formerly Micro Cap Value) - Institutional Class) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(24) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II (formerly Micro Cap Value) - Investor Class) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(25) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Boston Partners Micro Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. |
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(26) | Administrative Services Agreement between Registrant and Provident Distributors, Inc. dated as of May 29, 1998 and relating to the n/i family of funds, Schneider Small Cap Value Fund and Institutional Shares of the Boston Partners Funds is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 56 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on June 25, 1998. | |||
(27) | Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund (formerly Market Neutral) - Institutional Class) between Registrant and Provident Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(28) | Administrative and Accounting Services Agreement (Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund (formerly Market Neutral) - Institutional and Investor Classes) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(29) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund (formerly Market Neutral) - Institutional and Investor Classes) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(30) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (n/i Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(31) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (n/i Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(32) | Co-Administration Agreement (n/i Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and Bear Stearns Funds Management, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(33) | Administrative Services Agreement (n/i Small Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and Provident Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(34) | Form of Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Fund (formerly Long-Short Equity)) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 65 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 19, 1999. | |||
(35) | Form of Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Fund (formerly Long-Short Equity) - Institutional Shares) between Registrant and Provident Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 65 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 19, 1999. | |||
(36) | Form of Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Boston Partners Fund (formerly Long-Short Equity)) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 65 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 19, 1999. | |||
(37) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Bogle Small Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 67 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 30, 1999. | |||
(38) | Administrative Services Agreement (Bogle Small Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and Provident Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 67 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 30, 1999. |
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(39) | Non 12b-1 Shareholder Services Plan and Agreement (Bogle Small Cap Growth - Investor Shares) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 67 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 30, 1999. | |||
(40) | Agreement between E*TRADE Group, Inc., Registrant and Registrants principal underwriter is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 69 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 1, 1999. | |||
(41) | Fee Waiver Agreement for n/i numeric investors Funds is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 69 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 1, 1999. | |||
(42) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Bogle Small Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 69 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 1, 1999. | |||
(43) | Solicitation Agreement between n/i numeric Investors and Shareholder Communications Corporation is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 69 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 1, 1999. | |||
(44) | Administrative Services Assignment Agreement between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. dated January 2, 2001 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 73 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 15, 2001. | |||
(45) | Transfer Agency Supplement (Bear Stearns Money Market Family) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 75 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 4, 2001. | |||
(46) | Form of Transfer Agency Supplement (Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(47) | Form of Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 77 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 15, 2002. | |||
(48) | Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(49) | Transfer Agency Supplement (Schneider Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(50) | Form of Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Schneider Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 78 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 2002. | |||
(51) | Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Schneider Value Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(52) | Non-12b-1 Shareholder Services Plan and Related Form of Shareholder Servicing Agreement is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 79 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 18, 2002. | |||
(53) | Shareholder Servicing Agreement (Bogle Small Cap Growth Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(54) | Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Boston Partners Funds - Investor Shares) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. |
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(55) | Amended and Restated Non-12b-1 Shareholder Services Plan (Numeric Funds) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 82 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 5, 2003. | |||
(56) | Form of Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Customer Identification Program) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 84 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2003. | |||
(57) | Regulatory Administration Services Agreement between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 84 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2003. | |||
(58) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund, Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund, and Robeco WPG Tudor Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(59) | Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(60) | Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(61) | Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Tudor Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(62) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(63) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(64) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Robeco WPG Tudor Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(65) | Non-12b-1 Shareholder Services Plan and Related Form of Shareholder Servicing Agreement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Institutional Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(66) | Non-12b-1 Shareholder Services Plan and Related Form of Shareholder Servicing Agreement (Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund Institutional Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(67) | Non-12b-1 Shareholder Services Plan and Related Form of Shareholder Servicing Agreement (Robeco WPG Tudor Fund Institutional Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(68) | Non-12b-1 Shareholder Services Plan and Related Form of Shareholder Servicing Agreement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund Retirement Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 97 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on August 19, 2005. | |||
(69) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Senbanc Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(70) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Senbanc Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. |
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(71) | Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Senbanc Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(72) | Amended Schedule A to Regulatory Administration Services Agreement (Senbanc Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. | |||
(73) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No.33-20827) filed on December 14, 2006. | |||
(74) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No.33-20827) filed on December 14, 2006. | |||
(75) | Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio ) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No.33-20827) filed on December 14, 2006. | |||
(76) | Amended Schedule A to Regulatory Administration Services Agreement ( Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No.33-20827) filed on December 14, 2006. | |||
(77) | Escrow Agreement (Money Market Portfolio) between Registrant, PFPC Trust Company, and BlackRock Institutional Management Corp. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 105 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 30, 2006. | |||
(78) | Interim Delegation Agreement (Money Market Portfolio) between Registrant, PFPC Inc., and BlackRock Institutional Management Corp. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 105 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 30, 2006. | |||
(79) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(80) | Form of Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund ) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. | |||
(81) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement ( Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund ) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(82) | Amended Schedule A to Regulatory Administration Services Agreement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund ) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(83) | Form of Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Marvin & Palmer Large Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. | |||
(84) | Form of Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Marvin & Palmer Large Cap Growth Fund ) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. |
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(85) | Form of Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Marvin & Palmer Large Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. | |||
(86) | Form of Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(87) | Form of Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(88) | Form of Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) is filed herewith. | |||
(89) | Form of Amended Schedule A to Regulatory Administration Services Agreement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) between Registrant and PFPC Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(i) | (1) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel to be filed by Amendment. | ||
(2) | Consent of Counsel to be filed by Amendment. | |||
(j) | (1) | None. | ||
(k) | None. | |||
(l) | Initial Capital Agreements. | |||
(1) | Subscription Agreement, relating to Classes A through N, is incorporated herein by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 12, 1988, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(2) | Subscription Agreement between Registrant and Planco Financial Services, Inc., relating to Classes O and P is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1990. | |||
(3) | Subscription Agreement between Registrant and Planco Financial Services, Inc., relating to Class Q is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1990. | |||
(4) | Subscription Agreement between Registrant and Counsellors Securities Inc. relating to Classes R, S, and Alpha 1 through Theta 4 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 15, 1992, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(5) | Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Numeric Investors, L.P. relating to Class FF (n/i Micro Cap Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 1996. | |||
(6) | Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Numeric Investors, L.P. relating to Class GG (n/i Growth Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 1996. | |||
(7) | Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Numeric Investors, L.P. relating to Class HH (n/i Mid Cap Fund (formerly Growth & Value)) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 16, 1996. | |||
(8) | Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, L.P. relating to Classes QQ, RR and SS (Boston Partners Large Cap Value Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 9, 1997. |
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(9) | Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, L.P. relating to Classes TT and UU (Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 46 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 25, 1997. | |||
(10) | Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management L.P. relating to Classes VV and WW (Boston Partners Bond Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 51 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 8, 1997. | |||
(11) | Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Schneider Capital Management Company relating to Class YY (Schneider Small Cap Value Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(12) | Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, L.P. relating to Classes DDD and EEE (Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II (formerly Micro Cap Value)) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(13) | Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management relating to Classes III and JJJ (Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund (formerly Market Neutral)) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(14) | Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Provident Distributors, Inc. relating to Class MMM (n/i Small Cap Value Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(15) | Form of Purchase Agreement between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, L. P. relating to Classes KKK and LLL (Boston Partners Fund (formerly Long-Short Equity)) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 65 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 19, 1999. | |||
(16) | Purchase Agreement (Bogle Small Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and Bogle Investment Management, L.P. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 67 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 30, 1999. | |||
(17) | Purchase Agreement (Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund) between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, L.P. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(18) | Purchase Agreement (Schneider Value Fund) between Registrant and Schneider Capital Management Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(19) | Purchase Agreement (Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund ) between Registrant and Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 96 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on June 6, 2005. | |||
(20) | Purchase Agreement (Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 96 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on June 6, 2005. | |||
(21) | Purchase Agreement (Robeco WPG Tudor Fund) between Registrant and Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 96 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on June 6, 2005. | |||
(22) | Purchase Agreement (Senbanc Fund) between Registrant and Hilliard Lyons Research Advisers is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. |
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(23) | Purchase Agreement (Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio) between Registrant and Bear Stearns Asset Management Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 111 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on February 28, 2007. | |||
(24) | Purchase Agreement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund ) between Registrant and Bear Stearns Asset Management Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(25) | Form of Purchase Agreement (Marvin & Palmer Large Cap Growth Fund) between Registrant and Marvin & Palmer Associates Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. | |||
(26) | Form of Purchase Agreement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund) between Registrant and Abundance Technologies, Inc., is filed herewith. | |||
(27) | Form of Purchase Agreement ( Free Market International Equity Fund ) between Registrant and Abundance Technologies, Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(28) | Form of Purchase Agreement ( Free Market Fixed Income Fund ) between Registrant and Abundance Technologies, Inc. is filed herewith. | |||
(m) | Rule 12b-1 Plan. | |||
(1) | Plan of Distribution (Sansom Street Money Market) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 1989, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(2) | Plan of Distribution (Bedford Money Market) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on March 23, 1989, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(3) | Amendment No. 1 to Plans of Distribution (Classes A through Q) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 6 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 24, 1991, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(4) | Plan of Distribution (Zeta Money Market) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 15, 1992, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(5) | Plan of Distribution (Eta Money Market) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 15, 1992, and refiled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(6) | Plan of Distribution (Theta Money Market) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 15, 1992, and refilled electronically with Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to Registrants Registration Statement filed on October 30, 1998. | |||
(7) | Plan of Distribution (Boston Partners Large Cap Value Fund - Investor Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 9, 1997. | |||
(8) | Plan of Distribution (Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund - Investor Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 9, 1997. | |||
(9) | Plan of Distribution (Boston Partners Bond Fund - Investor Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 51 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 8, 1997. | |||
(10) | Plan of Distribution (Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II (formerly Micro Cap Value) - Investor Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 53 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on April 10, 1998. |
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(11) | Amendment to Plans of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 63 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 14, 1998. | |||
(12) | Plan of Distribution (Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund (formerly Market Neutral) - Investor Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 62 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 12, 1998. | |||
(13) | Plan of Distribution (Principal Money Market) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 29, 1998. | |||
(14) | Plan of Distribution (Boston Partners Fund (formerly Long Short Equity) - Investor Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 65 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on May 19, 1999. | |||
(15) | Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 (Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 80 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 1, 2002. | |||
(16) | Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 (Senbanc Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 99 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 27, 2005. | |||
(17) | Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 (Robeco Core Bond Fund - Investor Class) is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 99 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 27, 2005. | |||
(18) | Agreement between Registrant, Bear Stearns Securities Corp. and PFPC Distributors, Inc. dated as of November 17, 2005 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 101 to the Registrants Registration Statement filed on December 29, 2005. | |||
(n) | Rule 18f-3 Plan. | |||
(1) | Amended Rule 18f-3 Plan is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 99 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on September 27, 2005. | |||
(p) | Code of Ethics. | |||
(1) | Code of Ethics of the Registrant is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 110 to Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 29, 2006. | |||
(2) | Code of Ethics of Boston Partners Asset Management, LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 18, 2006. | |||
(3) | Code of Ethics of Numeric Investors LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 18, 2006. | |||
(4) | Code of Ethics of Schneider Capital Management Company is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 18, 2006. | |||
(5) | Code of Ethics of Bogle Investment Management, L.P. incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No . 103 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 18, 2006. | |||
(6) | Code of Ethics of PFPC Distributors, Inc is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No . 33-20827) filed on July 18, 2006. | |||
(7) | Code of Ethics of Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 105 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on October 30, 2006. | |||
(8) | Code of Ethics of J.J.B. Hilliard W.L. Lyons, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on November 25, 2005. |
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(9) | Code of Ethics of Bear Stearns Asset Management Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on July 18, 2006. | |||
(10) | Code of Ethics of Marvin & Palmer Associates, Inc., is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 109 to the Registrants Registration Statement (No. 33-20827) filed on December 15, 2006. | |||
(11) | Code of Ethics of Abundance Technologies, Inc. is filed herewith. |
Item 24. | PERSONS CONTROLLED BY OR UNDER COMMON CONTROL WITH REGISTRANT |
None.
Item 25. | INDEMNIFICATION |
Sections 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Article VIII of Registrants Articles of Incorporation, as amended, incorporated herein by reference as Exhibits (a)(1) and (a)(3), provide as follows:
Section 1. To the fullest extent that limitations on the liability of directors and officers are permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law, no director or officer of the Corporation shall have any liability to the Corporation or its shareholders for damages. This limitation on liability applies to events occurring at the time a person serves as a director or officer of the Corporation whether or not such person is a director or officer at the time of any proceeding in which liability is asserted.
Section 2. The Corporation shall indemnify and advance expenses to its currently acting and its former directors to the fullest extent that indemnification of directors is permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law. The Corporation shall indemnify and advance expenses to its officers to the same extent as its directors and to such further extent as is consistent with law. The Board of Directors may by law, resolution or agreement make further provision for indemnification of directors, officers, employees and agents to the fullest extent permitted by the Maryland General Corporation law.
Section 3. No provision of this Article shall be effective to protect or purport to protect any director or officer of the Corporation against any liability to the Corporation or its security holders to which he would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office.
Section 4. References to the Maryland General Corporation Law in this Article are to the law as from time to time amended. No further amendment to the Articles of Incorporation of the Corporation shall decrease, but may expand, any right of any person under this Article based on any event, omission or proceeding prior to such amendment. Insofar as indemnification for liability arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Sections 2 and 3 of the Assumption Agreement between PNC Bank, N.A. (PNC) and BlackRock Institutional Management Corporation (BIMC), dated April 29, 1998 and incorporated herein by reference to exhibit (d)(3), provide for the indemnification of BIMC and PNC against certain losses.
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Section 13 of the Investment Advisory Agreements between Registrant and Numeric Investors, LLC (Numeric), each dated November 12, 2004 and incorporated herein by reference to exhibits (d)(12), (d)(13), (d)(14) and (d)(15), provides for the indemnification of Numeric against certain losses.
Section 12 of the Investment Advisory Agreements between Registrant and Boston Partners Asset Management, LLC (Boston Partners), each dated October 25, 2002 and incorporated herein by reference to exhibits (d)(4), (d)(5), (d)(7), (d)(8), and (d)(10), provides for the indemnification of Boston Partners against certain losses.
Section 12 of the Investment Advisory Agreement between Registrant and Bogle Investment Management, L.P. (Bogle), dated September 15, 1999 and incorporated herein by reference to exhibit (d) (9) provides for the indemnification of Bogle against certain losses.
Section 12 of the Investment Advisory Agreements between the Registrant and Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments is incorporated herein by reference as exhibits (d)(20), (d)(22) and (d)(23) provides for the indemnification of Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments against certain losses.
Section 9 of the Distribution Agreement between Registrant and PFPC Distributors, Inc. (PFPC), dated January 2, 2001 and incorporated herein by reference to exhibit (e)(1) provides for the indemnification of PFPC Distributors against certain losses.
Section 12 of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Registrant and Hilliard Lyons Research Advisors, a division of J. J. B. Hilliard, W. L. Lyons (Hilliard) is incorporated herein by reference as exhibit (d)(21) provides for the indemnification of Hilliard against certain losses.
Section 12 of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Registrant and Bear Stearns Asset Management Inc., (Bear Stearns), on behalf of the Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio , is incorporated herein by reference as exhibit (d)(25) provides for the indemnification of Bear Stearns against certain losses.
Section 12 of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Registrant and Bear Stearns Asset Management Inc., (Bear Stearns), on behalf of the Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund, is filed herewith as exhibit (d)(28) provides for the indemnification of Bear Stearns against certain losses.
Section 12 of the Form of Investment Advisory Agreement between the Registrant and Marvin & Palmer Associates, Inc., (Marvin & Palmer Associates) is incorporated herein by reference as exhibit (d)(29) provides for the indemnification of Marvin & Palmer Associates against certain losses.
Section 12 of the Form of Investment Advisory Agreement between the Registrant and Abundance Technologies, Inc., (Abundance) is filed herewith as exhibit (d)(30) provides for the indemnification of Abundance against certain losses.
Item 26. | BUSINESS AND OTHER CONNECTIONS OF THE INVESTMENT ADVISERS. |
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Wilmington, DE | ||||
BlackRock Funds Wilmington, DE |
Treasurer | |||
BlackRock Capital Management, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Director | |||
BlackRock Advisors, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Director | |||
BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. New York, NY |
Director | |||
BlackRock (Japan), Inc. New York, NY |
Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director | |||
BlackRock International, Ltd. Edinburgh, Scotland |
Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director | |||
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director | |||
Steven E. Buller Chief Financial Officer and Managing Director |
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Chief Financial Officer & Managing Director | ||
Laurence J. Carolan Managing Director and Director |
BlackRock Capital Management, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Managing Director & Director | ||
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Managing Director | |||
BlackRock Advisors, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Managing Director & Director | |||
Robert P. Connolly Managing Director, General Counsel and Secretary |
BlackRock Capital Management, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Managing Director, General Counsel & Secretary | ||
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Managing Director, General Counsel & Secretary | |||
BlackRock International, Ltd. Edinburgh, Scotland |
Managing Director, General Counsel & Secretary |
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BlackRock (Japan), Inc. New York, NY |
Managing Director, General Counsel &
Secretary |
|||
BlackRock Advisors, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Managing Director, General Counsel & Secretary | |||
BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. New York, NY |
Managing Director, General Counsel & Secretary | |||
BlackRock Investments, Inc. New York, NY |
General Counsel & Secretary | |||
Laurence D. Fink Chief Executive Officer |
BlackRock Funds Wilmington, DE |
President & Trustee | ||
BlackRock Capital Management, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Chief Executive Officer | |||
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Chairman & CEO | |||
BlackRock International, Ltd. Edinburgh, Scotland |
Chairman & CEO | |||
BlackRock (Japan), Inc. New York, NY |
Chairman & CEO | |||
BlackRock Investments, Inc. New York, NY |
Chairman & CEO | |||
BlackRock Advisors, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Chief Executive Officer | |||
BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. New York, NY |
Chairman & CEO | |||
BlackRock HPB Management LLC New York, NY |
Director | |||
Charles S. Hallac Vice Chairman |
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Vice Chairman, BlackRock Solutions. | ||
Robert S. Kapito Vice Chairman and Director |
BlackRock Capital Management, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Vice Chairman & Director |
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BlackRock International, Ltd. Edinburgh, Scotland |
Vice Chairman & Director | |||
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Vice Chairman | |||
BlackRock Advisors, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Vice Chairman & Director | |||
BlackRock (Japan), Inc. New York, NY |
Vice Chairman & Director | |||
BlackRock Investments, Inc. New York, NY |
Director | |||
BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. New York, NY |
Vice Chairman & Director | |||
Kevin M. Klingert Managing Director and Director |
BlackRock Capital Management, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Managing Director & Director | ||
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Managing Director | |||
BlackRock Advisors, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Managing Director & Director | |||
BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. New York, NY |
Managing Director | |||
John P. Moran Managing Director, Treasurer and Director |
BlackRock Capital Management, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Managing Director & Director | ||
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Managing Director | |||
BlackRock Advisors, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Managing Director & Director | |||
BlackRock Investments, Inc. New York, NY |
President | |||
Barbara G. Novick Vice Chairman |
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Vice Charman, Account Management Group, BlackRock, Inc. | ||
Ralph L. Schlosstein President and Director |
BlackRock Provident Institutional Funds Wilmington, DE |
Chairman & President |
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BlackRock Capital Management, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
President & Director | |||
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
President & Director | |||
BlackRock International, Ltd. Edinburgh, Scotland |
President & Director | |||
BlackRock (Japan), Inc. New York, NY |
President & Director | |||
BlackRock Investments, Inc. New York, NY |
Director | |||
BlackRock Advisors, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
President & Director | |||
BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. New York, NY |
President & Director | |||
BlackRock HPB Management LLC New York, NY | Director | |||
Keith T. Anderson Vice Chairman |
BlackRock Capital Management, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Managing Director | ||
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Managing Director | |||
BlackRock Advisors, Inc. Wilmington, DE |
Managing Director | |||
BlackRock Financial Management, Inc. New York, NY |
Managing Director | |||
BlackRock International, Ltd. Edinburgh, Scotland |
Managing Director | |||
BlackRock (Japan), Inc. New York, NY |
Managing Director | |||
Mark G. Steinberg Managing Director and Director |
None. | None | ||
Susan L. Wagner Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer |
BlackRock, Inc. New York, NY |
Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer |
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Item 27. | Principal Underwriter |
(a) | PFPC Distributors, Inc. (the Distributor) is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission as a broker-dealer and is a member of the National Association of Securities Dealers. As of April 23, 2007, the Distributor acted as principal underwriter for the following investment companies: |
AFBA 5 Star Funds, Inc.
Aston Funds
Atlantic Whitehall Funds Trust
BHR Institutional Funds
CRM Mutual Fund Trust
E.I.I. International Property Fund
E.I.I. Realty Securities
GuideStone Funds
Highland Floating Rate Fund
Highland Floating Rate Advantage Fund
Highland Funds I
Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust
Matthews Asian Funds
Metropolitan West Funds
New Alternatives Fund
Old Westbury Funds
PAX World Funds Series Trust I
The RBB Fund, Inc.
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Stratton Multi-Cap Fund
Stratton Monthly Dividend REIT Shares, Inc.
The Stratton Funds, Inc.
Sterling Capital Small Cap Value Fund
The Torray Fund
Van Wagoner Funds
Wilshire Mutual Funds, Inc.
Wilshire Variable Insurance Trust
Distributed by BB&T AM Distributors, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of PFPC Distributors, Inc.:
BB&T Funds
Distributed by BlackRock Distributors, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of PFPC Distributors, Inc.:
BlackRock Funds
BlackRock Bond Allocation Target Shares
BlackRock Liquidity Funds
International Dollar Reserve Fund I, Ltd.
Distributed by MGI Funds Distributors, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of PFPC Distributors, Inc.:
MGI Funds
Distributed by Northern Funds Distributors, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of PFPC Distributors, Inc.:
Northern Funds
Northern Institutional Funds
(b) | The Distributor is a Massachusetts corporation located at 760 Moore Road, King of Prussia, PA 19406. The Distributor is a wholly-owned subsidiary of PFPC, Inc. and an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., a publicly traded company. |
The following is a list of the directors and executive officers of the Distributor:
Name |
Position(s) with Distributor |
|
Brian Burns | Chairman; Director; | |
President; Chief Executive Officer | ||
Michael Denofrio | Director | |
Nicholas Marsini | Director | |
Rita G. Adler | Chief Compliance Officer | |
John Munera | Anti-Money Laundering Officer | |
Jodi Jamison | Chief Legal Officer | |
Bradley A. Stearns | Secretary; Clerk | |
Julie Bartos | Assistant Secretary; Assistant Clerk |
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Charlene Wilson | Treasurer; Chief Financial Officer; | |
Financial & Operations Principal | ||
Maria Schaffer | Assistant Treasurer; Controller | |
Bruno Di Stefano | Vice President | |
Susan K. Moscaritolo | Vice President |
Item 28. | LOCATION OF ACCOUNTS AND RECORDS |
(1) | PFPC Trust Company (assignee under custodian agreement), 8800 Tinicum Boulevard, Suite 200, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19153 (records relating to its functions as sub-adviser and custodian). |
(2) | PFPC Distributors, Inc., 760 Moore Road, Valley Forge, Pennsylvania 19406. (records relating to its functions as distributor). |
(3) | BlackRock Institutional Management Corporation, Bellevue Corporate Center, 100 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware 19809 (records relating to its functions as investment adviser, sub-adviser and administrator). |
(4) | PFPC Inc., Bellevue Corporate Center, 103 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware 19809 (records relating to its functions as transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent). |
(5) | Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, One Logan Square, 18th and Cherry Streets, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 (Registrants Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws and Minute Books). |
(6) | Numeric Investors LLC, 1 Memorial Drive, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02142 (records relating to its function as investment adviser). |
(7) | Robeco Investment Management, Inc. (formerly Boston Partners Asset Management, L.L.C.), 28 State Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111 (records relating to its function as investment adviser). |
(8) | Schneider Capital Management Co., 460 East Swedesford Road, Suite 1080, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087 (records relating to its function as investment adviser). |
(9) | Bogle Investment Management, L.P., 57 River Street, Suite 206, Wellesley, Massachusetts 02481 (records relating to its function as investment adviser). |
(10) | Bear Stearns & Co. Inc., Funds Management Department, 383 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10179 (records relating to its function as co-administrator for investment portfolios advised by Numeric Investors, LLC) |
(12) | Robeco Investment Management, Inc. (formerly Weiss, Peck & Greer Investments), 909 Third Avenue, New York, New York 10022 (records relating to its function as investment adviser). |
(13) |
Hilliard Lyons Research Advisors, a division of J. J. B. Hilliard, W. L. Lyons, Inc., 501 South 4 th Street, Louisville, Kentucky 40202 (records relating to its function as investment adviser). |
(14) | Bear Stearns & Co. Inc., 383 Madison Avenue, New York, New York 10179 (records relating to its function as investment adviser). |
(15) | Marvin & Palmer Associates, Inc., 1201 N. Market Street, Suite 2300, Wilmington, Delaware 19801-1165 (records relating to its function as investment adviser). |
(16) | Abundance Technologies, Inc., 3700 Park 42 Drive, Suite 105A, Cincinnati, OH 45241 (records relating to its function as investment adviser). |
C-34
Item 29. | MANAGEMENT SERVICES |
None.
Item 30. | UNDERTAKINGS |
(a) | Registrant hereby undertakes to hold a meeting of shareholders for the purpose of considering the removal of directors in the event the requisite number of shareholders so request. |
(b) | Registrant hereby undertakes to furnish each person to whom a prospectus is delivered a copy of Registrants latest annual report to shareholders upon request and without charge. |
C-35
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act ), and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended , the Registrant has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 112 to its Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereto duly authorized, in the City of Wilmington, and State of Delaware on the 1st day of June , 2007.
THE RBB FUND, INC. |
By: /s/ Edward J. Roach |
Edward J. Roach |
President and Treasurer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the 1933 Act, this Post-Effective Amendment to Registrants Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities and on the date indicated.
SIGNATURE |
TITLE |
DATE |
||
/s/ Edward. J Roach Edward J. Roach |
President (Principal Executive Officer) and Treasurer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) | June 1, 2007 | ||
*J. Richard Carnall J. Richard Carnall |
Director | June 1, 2007 | ||
*Francis J. McKay Francis J. McKay |
Director | June 1, 2007 | ||
*Marvin E. Sternberg Marvin E. Sternberg |
Director | June 1, 2007 | ||
*Julian A. Brodsky Julian A. Brodsky |
Director | June 1, 2007 | ||
*Arnold M. Reichman Arnold M. Reichman |
Director | June 1, 2007 | ||
*Robert Sablowsky Robert Sablowsky |
Director | June 1, 2007 | ||
*Robert Straniere Robert Straniere |
Director | June 1, 2007 | ||
*Nicholas A. Giordano Nicholas A. Giordano |
Director | June 1, 2007 | ||
*Mark A. Sargent Mark A. Sargent |
Director | June 1, 2007 | ||
*By: /s/ Edward J. Roach Edward J. Roach Attorney-in-Fact |
June 1, 2007 |
C-36
THE RBB FUND, INC.
(the Company)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Know All Men by These Presents, that the undersigned, Francis J. McKay, hereby constitutes and appoints Edward J. Roach and Michael P. Malloy, his true and lawful attorneys, to execute in his name, place, and stead, in his capacity as Director or officer, or both, of the Company, the Registration Statement and any amendments thereto and all instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file the same with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and said attorneys shall have full power and authority to do and perform in his name and on his behalf, in any and all capacities, every act whatsoever requisite or necessary to be done in the premises, as fully and to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, said acts of said attorneys being hereby ratified and approved.
DATED: | November 9, 2000 | |||||
/s/ Francis J. McKay | ||||||
Francis J. McKay |
THE RBB FUND, INC.
(the Company)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Know All Men by These Presents, that the undersigned, Marvin E. Sternberg, hereby constitutes and appoints Edward J. Roach and Michael P. Malloy, his true and lawful attorneys, to execute in his name, place, and stead, in his capacity as Director or officer, or both, of the Company, the Registration Statement and any amendments thereto and all instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file the same with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and said attorneys shall have full power and authority to do and perform in his name and on his behalf, in any and all capacities, every act whatsoever requisite or necessary to be done in the premises, as fully and to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, said acts of said attorneys being hereby ratified and approved.
DATED: | November 9, 2000 | |||||
/s/ Marvin E. Sternberg | ||||||
Marvin E. Sternberg |
THE RBB FUND, INC.
(the Company)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Know All Men by These Presents, that the undersigned, Julian Brodsky, hereby constitutes and appoints Edward J. Roach and Michael P. Malloy, his true and lawful attorneys, to execute in his name, place, and stead, in his capacity as Director or officer, or both, of the Company, the Registration Statement and any amendments thereto and all instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file the same with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and said attorneys shall have full power and authority to do and perform in his name and on his behalf, in any and all capacities, every act whatsoever requisite or necessary to be done in the premises, as fully and to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, said acts of said attorneys being hereby ratified and approved.
DATED: | November 9, 2000 | |||||
/s/ Julian Brodsky | ||||||
Julian Brodsky |
THE RBB FUND, INC.
(the Company)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Know All Men by These Presents, that the undersigned, Arnold Reichman, hereby constitutes and appoints Edward J. Roach and Michael P. Malloy, his true and lawful attorneys, to execute in his name, place, and stead, in his capacity as Director or officer, or both, of the Company, the Registration Statement and any amendments thereto and all instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file the same with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and said attorneys shall have full power and authority to do and perform in his name and on his behalf, in any and all capacities, every act whatsoever requisite or necessary to be done in the premises, as fully and to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, said acts of said attorneys being hereby ratified and approved.
DATED: | November 9, 2000 | |||||
/s/ Arnold Reichman | ||||||
Arnold Reichman |
THE RBB FUND, INC.
(the Company)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Know All Men by These Presents, that the undersigned, Robert Sablowsky, hereby constitutes and appoints Edward J. Roach and Michael P. Malloy, his true and lawful attorneys, to execute in his name, place, and stead, in his capacity as Director or officer, or both, of the Company, the Registration Statement and any amendments thereto and all instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file the same with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and said attorneys shall have full power and authority to do and perform in his name and on his behalf, in any and all capacities, every act whatsoever requisite or necessary to be done in the premises, as fully and to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, said acts of said attorneys being hereby ratified and approved.
DATED: | November 9, 2000 | |||||
/s/ Robert Sablowsky | ||||||
Robert Sablowsky |
THE RBB FUND, INC.
(the Company)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Know All Men by These Presents, that the undersigned, J. Richard Carnall, hereby constitutes and appoints Edward J. Roach and Michael P. Malloy, his true and lawful attorneys, to execute in his name, place, and stead, in his capacity as Director or officer, or both, of the Company, the Registration Statement and any amendments thereto and all instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file the same with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and said attorneys shall have full power and authority to do and perform in his name and on his behalf, in any and all capacities, every act whatsoever requisite or necessary to be done in the premises, as fully and to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, said acts of said attorneys being hereby ratified and approved.
DATED: | September 10, 2002 | |||||
/s/ J. Richard Carnall | ||||||
J. Richard Carnall |
THE RBB FUND, INC.
(the Company)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Know All Men by These Presents, that the undersigned, Robert Straniere, hereby constitutes and appoints Edward J. Roach and Michael P. Malloy, his true and lawful attorneys, to execute in his name, place, and stead, in his capacity as Director or officer, or both, of the Company, the Registration Statement and any amendments thereto and all instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file the same with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and said attorneys shall have full power and authority to do and perform in his name and on his behalf, in any and all capacities, every act whatsoever requisite or necessary to be done in the premises, as fully and to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, said acts of said attorneys being hereby ratified and approved.
DATED: | June 8, 2006 | |||||
/s/ Robert Straniere | ||||||
Robert Straniere |
THE RBB FUND, INC.
(the Company)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Know All Men by These Presents, that the undersigned, Mark A. Sargent, hereby constitutes and appoints Edward J. Roach and Michael P. Malloy, his true and lawful attorneys, to execute in his name, place, and stead, in his capacity as Director or officer, or both, of the Company, the Registration Statement and any amendments thereto and all instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file the same with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and said attorneys shall have full power and authority to do and perform in his name and on his behalf, in any and all capacities, every act whatsoever requisite or necessary to be done in the premises, as fully and to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, said acts of said attorneys being hereby ratified and approved.
DATED: | September 21, 2006 | |||||
/s/ Mark A. Sargent | ||||||
Mark A. Sargent |
THE RBB FUND, INC.
(the Company)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Know All Men by These Presents, that the undersigned, Nicholas A. Giordano, hereby constitutes and appoints Edward J. Roach and Michael P. Malloy, his true and lawful attorneys, to execute in his name, place, and stead, in his capacity as Director or officer, or both, of the Company, the Registration Statement and any amendments thereto and all instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file the same with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and said attorneys shall have full power and authority to do and perform in his name and on his behalf, in any and all capacities, every act whatsoever requisite or necessary to be done in the premises, as fully and to all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, said acts of said attorneys being hereby ratified and approved.
DATED: | September 21, 2006 | |||||
/s/ Nicholas A. Giordano | ||||||
Nicholas A. Giordano |
PEA 112
EXHIBIT INDEX
EXHIBIT |
DESCRIPTION |
|
(a)(50) | Articles Supplementary of Registrant (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) | |
(d)(27) | Investment Advisory and Administration Agreement (Money Market Portfolio ) | |
(d)(28) | Investment Advisory Agreement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund ) | |
(d)(30) | Form of Investment Advisory Agreement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund | |
(d)(36) | Form of Contractual Fee Wavier Agreement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) | |
(e)(12) | Distribution Agreement Supplement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) | |
(e)(14) | Form of Distribution Agreement Supplement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) | |
(g)(22) | Custodian Agreement Supplement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) | |
(g)(24) | Form of Custodian Agreement Supplement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund) | |
(h)(79) | Administration and Accounting Services Agreement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) | |
(h)(81) | Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund) | |
(h)(82) | Amended Schedule A to Regulatory Administration Services Agreement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund). | |
(h)(86) | Form of Administration and Accounting Services Agreement ( Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund | |
(h)(87) | Form of Administrative Services Agreement Supplement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund ) | |
(h)(88) | Form of Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund ) | |
(h)(89) | Form of Amended Schedule A to Regulatory Administration Services Agreement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, Free Market Fixed-Income Fund ) |
EXHIBIT |
DESCRIPTION |
|
(l)(24) | Purchase Agreement (Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund f/k/a/ Bear Stearns Enhanced Yield Fund ) | |
(l)(26) | Form of Purchase Agreement (Free Market U.S. Equity Fund) | |
(l)(27) | Form of Purchase Agreement (Free Market/International Equity Fund) . | |
(l)(27) | Form of Purchase Agreement (Free Market Fixed Income Fund) . | |
(p)(11) | Code of Ethics of Abundance Technologies, Inc. |
Exhibit (a)(50)
THE RBB FUND, INC.
ARTICLES SUPPLEMENTARY
THE RBB FUND, INC., a Maryland corporation having its principal office in Baltimore, Maryland (hereinafter called the Corporation), hereby certifies to the State Department of Assessments and Taxation of Maryland that:
FIRST: In accordance with the requirements of Section 2-208 of the Maryland General Corporation Law, the Board of Directors of the Corporation has classified One Hundred Million (100,000,000) authorized but unclassified and unissued shares of Common Stock of the Corporation as Class BBBB shares of Common Stock representing interests in the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, One Hundred Million (100,000,000) authorized but unclassified and unissued shares of Common Stock of the Corporation as Class CCCC shares of Common Stock representing interests in the Free Market International Equity Fund, and One Hundred Million (100,000,000) authorized but unclassified and unissued shares of Common Stock of the Corporation as Class DDDD shares of Common Stock representing interests in the Free Market Fixed-Income Fund pursuant to the following resolutions adopted by the Board of Directors of the Corporation on May 24, 2007:
RESOLVED , that pursuant to the authority expressly given to the Board of Directors in Article VI, Section (4) of the Corporations Charter, the Board hereby classifies authorized and unissued shares of Common Stock of the Corporation, par value $.001 per share, and hereby fixes and determines the rights, preferences, restrictions and other matters relating to such classes of Common Stock as follows:
1. Class BBBB Shares . An additional One Hundred Million (100,000,000) of the authorized, unissued and unclassified shares of the Corporation (par value $.001 per share) are hereby classified and designated as Class BBBB shares of Common Stock representing interests in the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund.
2. Class CCCC Shares . An additional One Hundred Million (100,000,000) of the authorized, unissued and unclassified shares of the Corporation (par value $.001 per share) are hereby classified and designated as Class CCCC shares of Common Stock representing interests in the Free Market International Equity Fund.
3. Class DDDD Shares . An additional One Hundred Million (100,000,000) of the authorized, unissued and unclassified shares of the Corporation (par value $.001 per share) are hereby classified and designated as Class DDDD shares of Common Stock representing interests in the Free Market Fixed Income Fund.
FURTHER RESOLVED , that a description of the shares so classified with the preferences, conversion and other rights, voting powers, restrictions, limitations as to dividends, qualifications and terms and conditions of redemption as set or changed by the Board of Directors of the Corporation is as set forth in Article VI, section (6) of the Corporations Articles of Incorporation and as is set forth elsewhere in the Charter of the Corporation with respect to stock of the Corporation generally, and as follows:
1. To the full extent permitted by applicable law, the Corporation may, without the vote of the shares of any class of capital stock of the Corporation then outstanding and if so determined by the Board of Directors:
(A)(1) sell and convey the assets belonging to the Class BBBB, Class CCCC or Class DDDD Common Stock (each a Class) to another trust or corporation that is a management investment company (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) and is organized under the laws of any state of the United States for consideration which may include the assumption of all outstanding obligations, taxes and other liabilities, accrued or contingent, belonging to such Class and which may include securities issued by such trust or corporation. Following such sale and conveyance, and after making provision for the payment of any liabilities belonging to such Class that are not assumed by the purchaser of the assets belonging to such Class, the Corporation may, at its option, redeem all outstanding shares of such Class at the net asset value thereof as determined by the Board of Directors in accordance with the provisions of applicable law, less such redemption fee or other charge, if any, as may be fixed by resolution of the Board of Directors. Notwithstanding any other provision of the Charter of the Corporation to the contrary, the redemption price may be paid in any combination of cash or other assets belonging to the Class, including but not limited to the distribution of the securities or other consideration received by the Corporation for the assets belonging to such Class upon such conditions as the Board of Directors deems, in its sole discretion, to be appropriate and consistent with applicable law and the Charter of the Corporation;
(2) sell and convert the assets belonging to a Class into money and, after making provision for the payment of all obligations, taxes and other liabilities, accrued or contingent, belonging to such Class, the Corporation may, at its option, redeem all outstanding shares of such Class at the net asset value thereof as determined by the Board of Directors in accordance with the provisions of applicable law, less such redemption fee or other charge, if any, as may be fixed by resolution of the Board of Directors upon such conditions as the Board of Directors deems, in its sole discretion, to be appropriate and consistent with applicable law and the Charter of the Corporation; or
(3) combine the assets belonging to a Class with the assets belonging to any one or more other classes of capital stock of the Corporation if the Board of Directors reasonably determines that such combination will not have a material adverse effect on the stockholders of any class of capital stock of the Corporation participating in such
combination. In connection with any such combination of assets, the shares of any Class then outstanding may, if so determined by the Board of Directors, be converted into shares of any other class or classes of capital stock of the Corporation with respect to which conversion is permitted by applicable law, or may be redeemed, at the option of the Corporation, at the net asset value thereof as determined by the Board of Directors in accordance with the provisions of applicable law, less such redemption fee or other charge, or conversion cost, if any, as may be fixed by resolution of the Board of Directors upon such conditions as the Board of Directors deems, in its sole discretion, to be appropriate and consistent with applicable law and the Charter of the Corporation. Notwithstanding any other provision of these Articles Supplementary or the Articles of Incorporation to the contrary, any redemption price, or part thereof, paid pursuant to this section may be paid in shares of any other existing or future class or classes of capital stock of the Corporation; and
(B) without limiting the foregoing, at its option, to redeem shares of any of the Classes for any other reason if the Board of Directors has determined that it is in the best interest of the Corporation to do so. Any such redemption shall be at the net asset value of such shares of such Class being redeemed less such redemption fee or other charge, if any, as may be fixed by resolution of the Board of Directors and shall be made and effective upon such terms and in accordance with procedures approved by the Board of Directors at such time.
2. The shares of Class BBBB, Class CCCC and Class DDDD Common Stock will be issued without stock certificates.
SECOND: The shares aforesaid have been duly classified by the Board of Directors of the Corporation pursuant to authority and power contained in the Charter of the Corporation.
THIRD: (1) Immediately before the classification of additional authorized, unissued and unclassified shares of Common Stock as Class BBBB, Class CCCC and Class DDDD Common Stock:
(a) the Corporation had the authority to issue one hundred billion (100,000,000,000) shares of its Common Stock and the aggregate par value of all the shares of all classes was one hundred million dollars ($100,000,000); and
(b) the number of authorized shares of each class was as follows:
Class A | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class B | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class C | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class D | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class E | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
Class F | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class G | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class H | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class I | - | one billion five hundred million (1,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class J | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class K | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class L | - | one billion five hundred million (1,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class M | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class N | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class O | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class P | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Q | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class R | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class S | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class T | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class U | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class V | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class W | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class X | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Y | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Z | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class AA | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class BB | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
Class CC | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class DD | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class EE | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class FF | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class GG | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class HH | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class II | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class JJ | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class KK | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class LL | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class MM | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class NN | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class OO | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class PP | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class QQ | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class RR | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class SS | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class TT | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class UU | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class VV | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class WW | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class YY | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class ZZ | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class AAA | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
Class BBB | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class CCC | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class DDD | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class EEE | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class FFF | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class GGG | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class HHH | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class III | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class JJJ | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class KKK | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class LLL | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class MMM | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class NNN | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class OOO | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class PPP | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class QQQ | - | two billion five hundred million (2,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class RRR | - | two billion five hundred million (2,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class SSS | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class TTT | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class UUU | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class VVV | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class WWW | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class XXX | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
Class YYY | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class ZZZ | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class AAAA | - | fifty billion (50,000,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Select | - | seven hundred million (700,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Beta 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Beta 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Beta 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Principal Money | seven hundred million (700,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | |||
Class Gamma 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Gamma 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Gamma 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Bear Stearns Money |
- | two billion five hundred million (2,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Bear Stearns Municipal Money |
- | one billion five hundred million (1,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Bear Stearns Government Money |
- | one billion (1,000,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Delta 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Epsilon 1 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Epsilon 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Epsilon 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Epsilon 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Zeta 1 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Zeta 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
Class Zeta 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Zeta 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Eta 1 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Eta 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Eta 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Eta 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Theta 1 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Theta 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Theta 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Theta 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
for a total of seventy-six billion six hundred seventy-three million (76,673,000,000) shares classified into separate classes of Common Stock.
(2) After the classification of additional authorized, unissued and unclassified shares of Common Stock as Class BBBB, Class CCCC and Class DDDD Common Stock:
(a) the Corporation has the authority to issue one hundred billion (100,000,000,000) shares of its Common Stock and the aggregate par value of all the shares of all classes is one hundred million dollars ($100,000,000); and
(b) | the number of authorized shares of each class is now as follows: |
Class A | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class B | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class C | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class D | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class E | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class F | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class G | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
Class H | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class I | - | one billion five hundred million (1,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class J | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class K | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class L | - | one billion five hundred million (1,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class M | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class N | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class O | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class P | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Q | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class R | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class S | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class T | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class U | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class V | - | five hundred million (500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class W | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class X | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Y | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Z | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class AA | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class BB | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class CC | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class DD | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
Class EE | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class FF | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class GG | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class HH | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class II | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class JJ | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class KK | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class LL | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class MM | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class NN | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class OO | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class PP | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class QQ | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class RR | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class SS | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class TT | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class UU | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class VV | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class WW | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class YY | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class ZZ | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class AAA | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class BBB | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class CCC | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
Class DDD | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class EEE | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class FFF | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class GGG | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class HHH | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class III | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class JJJ | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class KKK | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class LLL | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class MMM | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class NNN | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class OOO | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class PPP | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class QQQ | - | two billion five hundred million (2,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class RRR | - | two billion five hundred million (2,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class SSS | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class TTT | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class UUU | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class VVV | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class WWW | - | fifty million (50,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class XXX | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class YYY | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class ZZZ | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
Class AAAA | - | fifty billion (50,000,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class BBBB | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class CCCC | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class DDDD | - | one hundred million (100,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Select | - | seven hundred million (700,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Beta 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Beta 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Beta 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Principal Money | seven hundred million (700,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | |||
Class Gamma 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Gamma 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Gamma 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Bear Stearns Money |
- | two billion five hundred million (2,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Bear Stearns Municipal Money |
- | one billion five hundred million (1,500,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Bear Stearns Government Money |
- | one billion (1,000,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Delta 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Epsilon 1 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Epsilon 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Epsilon 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Epsilon 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
Class Zeta 1 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Zeta 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Zeta 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Zeta 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Eta 1 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Eta 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Eta 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Eta 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Theta 1 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Theta 2 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Theta 3 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; | ||
Class Theta 4 | - | one million (1,000,000), par value $.001 per share; |
for a total of seventy-six billion nine hundred seventy-three million (76,973,000,000) shares classified into separate classes of Common Stock.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, The RBB Fund, Inc. has caused these presents to be signed in its name and on its behalf by its President and witnessed by its Secretary on the 24th day of May, 2007.
WITNESS: | THE RBB FUND, INC. | |||||||
By: | /s/ Tina M. Payne | By: | /s/ Edward J. Roach | |||||
Tina M. Payne | Edward J. Roach | |||||||
Secretary | President |
CERTIFICATE
THE UNDERSIGNED, President of The RBB Fund, Inc., who executed on behalf of said Corporation the foregoing Articles Supplementary to the Charter, of which this certificate is made a part, hereby acknowledges that the foregoing Articles Supplementary are the act of the said Corporation and further certifies that, to the best of his knowledge, information and belief, the matters and facts set forth therein with respect to the approval thereof are true in all material respects, under the penalties of perjury.
/s/ Edward J. Roach |
Edward J. Roach |
President and Treasurer |
Exhibit 99.(d)(27)
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
(Money Market Portfolio)
AGREEMENT made as of December 15, 2006 between THE RBB FUND, INC., a Maryland corporation (herein called the Company), and BLACKROCK INSTITUTIONAL MANAGEMENT CORPORATION, a Delaware corporation (herein called the Investment Advisor).
WHEREAS, the Company is registered as an open-end, diversified, management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the 1940 Act) and currently offers shares representing interests in seventeen separate investment portfolios; and
WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the Investment Advisor to render investment advisory and administration services with respect to the Companys Money Market Portfolio (the Portfolio), and the Investment Advisor is willing to so render such services,
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, it is agreed between the parties hereto as follows:
1. Appointment. The Company hereby appoints the Investment Advisor to act as investment advisor to the Company for the Portfolio for the period and on the terms set forth in this Agreement. The Investment Advisor accepts such appointment and agrees to render the services herein set forth, for the compensation herein provided. The Companys Common Stock, $.001 par value (the Shares) has been classified into one hundred and six different classes of Common Stock. The Portfolio contains two classes of Shares: the Class I Shares and the Class L Shares.
2. Delivery of Documents. The Company has furnished the Investment Advisor with copies properly certified or authenticated of each of the following:
(a) Articles of Incorporation of the Company, filed with the Secretary of State of Maryland on February 29, 1988, as amended (such Articles of Incorporation, as presently in effect and as they shall from time to time be amended, herein called the Articles of Incorporation);
(b) Articles Supplementary of the Company, filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Maryland on March 24, 1988 and all further Articles of Supplementary filed with the State of Maryland (Articles Supplementary);
(c) By-Laws of the Company, as amended (such By-Laws, as presently in effect and as they shall from time to time be amended, herein called the By-Laws);
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(d) Resolutions of the Board of Directors of the Company authorizing the appointment of the Investment Advisor and the execution and delivery of this Agreement;
(e) A copy of each Distribution Agreement between the Company and the Companys principal underwriter (the Distributor) relating to any class of Shares representing interests in the Portfolio and the form of each related Dealer Agreement, if any, for broker-dealers participating in the distribution of any class of Shares representing interests in the Portfolio (Participating Dealers);
(f) Each Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, if any, relating to any class of Shares representing interests in the Portfolio;
(g) Each Shareholder Servicing Agreement, if any, relating to any class of Shares representing interests in the Portfolio;
(h) Each Non-12b-1 Shareholder Services Plan, if any, relating to any class of Shares representing interests in the Portfolio;
(i) Notification of Registration of the Company under the 1940 Act on Form N-8A as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on March 24, 1988 and all amendments thereto;
(j) The initial Registration Statement of the Company on Form N-lA under the Securities Act of 1933 (the 1933 Act) (File No. 33-20827) and under the 1940 Act filed with the SEC on March 24, 1988 relating to the Shares, and all amendments thereto (the Registration Statement); and
(k) Each Prospectus relating to any class of Shares representing interests in the Portfolio in effect under the 1933 Act (such prospectuses, as presently in effect and as they shall from time to time be amended and supplemented, are herein collectively called the Prospectuses).
The Company will furnish the Investment Advisor from time to time with copies, properly certified or authenticated, of all amendments of or supplements to the foregoing, if any.
3. Management of the Portfolio. Subject to the supervision of the Board of Directors of the Company, the Investment Advisor will provide for the overall management of the Portfolio, including (i) the provision of a continuous investment program for the Portfolio, including investment research and management with respect to all securities, investments, cash and cash equivalents in the Portfolio, (ii) the determination from time to time of what securities and other investments will be purchased, retained or sold by the Company for the Portfolio, (iii) the placement of orders for all purchases and sales made for the Portfolio, and (iv) coordination
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of contractual relationships and communications between the Company and its contractual service providers. The Investment Advisor will provide the services rendered by it hereunder in accordance with the investment objectives, restrictions and policies of the Portfolio as stated in the applicable Prospectus and the applicable statement of additional information contained in the Registration Statement. The Investment Advisor further agrees that it will maintain all books and records with respect to the securities transactions of the Portfolio, keep its respective books of account and will render to the Companys Board of Directors such periodic and special reports as the Board may request.
To the extent permitted by applicable law and subject to approval by the Companys Board of Directors but not the approval by a vote of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio, the Investment Advisor may from time to time, enter into contracts with one or more sub-advisors, including without limitation, affiliates of the Investment Advisor, to perform investment sub-advisory services with respect to the Portfolio. In addition, to the extent permitted by applicable law, the Investment Advisor may reallocate all or a portion of its investment advisory responsibilities under this Agreement to any of its affiliates. The Investment Advisor shall supervise and oversee the activities of each sub-advisor under its sub-advisory contract on behalf of the Portfolio. Subject to approval by the Companys Board of Directors, the Investment Advisor may terminate any or all sub-advisors in its sole discretion at any time to the extent permitted by applicable law.
4. Brokerage. The Investment Advisor may place orders either directly with the issuer or with any broker or dealer. In placing orders with brokers and dealers, the Investment Advisor will attempt to obtain the best net price and the most favorable execution of its orders. In placing orders with such broker or dealer, the Investment Advisor will consider the experience and skill of the firms securities traders as well as the firms financial responsibility and administrative efficiency. Consistent with this obligation, when the execution and price offered by two or more brokers or dealers are comparable, the Investment Advisor may, in its discretion, purchase and sell the Portfolios securities to and from brokers and dealers who provide the Company with research advice and other services. In no instance will the Portfolios securities be purchased from or sold to the Distributor, the Investment Advisor or any affiliated person thereof, except to the extent permitted by SEC exemptive order or by applicable law.
5. Administration Services.
(a) | The Investment Advisor will perform the following administration and accounting functions on a daily basis: |
(1) Journalize the Portfolios investment, capital share and income and expense activities;
(2) Verify investment buy/sell trade tickets and transmit trades to the Companys custodian for proper settlement;
(3) Maintain individual ledgers for investment securities;
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(4) Maintain historical tax lots for each security;
(5) Reconcile cash and investment balances of the Portfolio with the custodian, and prepare the beginning cash balance available for investment purposes;
(6) Update the cash availability throughout the day as required;
(7) Post to and prepare the Portfolios Statement of Assets and Liabilities and the Statement of Operations;
(8) Calculate various contractual expenses (e.g., advisory/administration and custody fees);
(9) Monitor the expense accruals and notify management of the Company of any proposed adjustments;
(10) Control all disbursements from the Portfolio and authorize such disbursements upon Written Instructions;
(11) Calculate capital gains and losses;
(12) Determine net income;
(13) Obtain security market quotes from independent pricing services approved by management of the Company, or if such quotes are unavailable, then obtain such prices from management of the Company, and in either case calculate the market value of the Portfolios investments;
(14) Compute the net asset value of the Portfolio; and
(15) Compute the Portfolios yields, total return, expense ratios, Portfolio turnover rate, and, Portfolio average dollar-weighted maturity.
(b) | In addition to the accounting services described in the foregoing Paragraph 5(a), the Investment Advisor will: |
(1) Provide general ledger and Portfolio holdings upon request;
(2) Prepare quarterly broker security transactions summaries;
(3) Supply various normal and customary Portfolio and Company statistical data as requested on an ongoing basis;
(4) Prepare for execution and file the Portfolios and Companys Federal and state tax returns;
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(5) Prepare and file the Companys Semi-Annual Reports with the SEC on Form N-SAR and prepare and file the Companys Rule 24f-2 Notice and Form N-PX with the SEC;
(6) Prepare and file with the SEC the Portfolios and Companys annual, semi-annual and quarterly Shareholder reports on Form N-CSR and Form N-Q;
(7) Assist with the preparation of registration statements on Form N-lA and other filings relating to the registration of Shares;
(8) Monitor the Companys status as a regulated investment company under Sub-chapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended;
(9) Qualify the Class I Shares and the Class L Shares for sale in each state in which the Companys Board of Directors determines to sell the Class I Shares or the Class L Shares and make all filings and take all appropriate actions necessary to maintain and renew such registrations of the Class I Shares and the Class L Shares;
(10) Monitor the Companys compliance with the amounts and conditions of each such state qualification; and
(11) Maintain the Companys fidelity bond as required by the 1940 Act and obtain a directors and officers liability policy.
(c) | The Investment Advisor shall act as liaison with the Companys independent registered public accounting firm and shall provide account analyses, fiscal year summaries, and other audit related schedules. The Investment Advisor shall take all reasonable action in the performance of its obligations under this Agreement to assure that the necessary information is made available to such firm for the expression of its opinion, as such may be required by the Company from time to time. |
6. Conformity with Law; Confidentiality. The Investment Advisor further agrees that it will comply with all applicable Rules and Regulations of all Federal regulatory agencies having jurisdiction over the Investment Advisor in the performance of its duties hereunder (herein called the Rules). The Investment Advisor will treat confidentially and as proprietary information of the Company all records and other information relative to the Company and prior, present or potential shareholders, and will not use such records and information for any purpose other than performance of its responsibilities and duties hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and may not be withheld where the Investment Advisor may be exposed to civil or criminal contempt proceedings for failure to comply, when requested to divulge such information by duly constituted authorities, or when so requested by the Company.
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7. Services Not Exclusive. The investment management and administration services rendered by the Investment Advisor hereunder are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Investment Advisor shall be free to render similar services to others so long as its services under this Agreement are not impaired thereby.
8. Books and Records. In compliance with the requirements of Rule 31a-3 of the 1940 Act, the Investment Advisor hereby agrees that all records which it maintains for the Portfolio are the property of the Company and further agrees to surrender promptly to the Company any of such records upon the Companys request. The Investment Advisor further agrees to preserve for the periods prescribed by Rule 31a-2 the records required to be maintained by Rule 31a-1 of the Rules.
9. Expenses. During the term of this Agreement, the Investment Advisor will pay all expenses incurred by it in connection with its activities under this Agreement other than the cost of (including brokerage commissions, if any) securities purchased for the Portfolio, the cost of any independent pricing service used in valuing the Portfolios securities and fees and expenses of registering and qualifying shares for distribution under state securities laws.
In addition, if the expenses borne by the Portfolio in any fiscal year exceed the most restrictive applicable expense limitations imposed by the securities regulations of any state in which the Shares are registered or qualified for sale to the public, the Investment Advisor shall reimburse the Portfolio for any excess up to the amount of the fees payable by the Portfolio to it during such fiscal year pursuant to Paragraph 10 hereof; provided, however, that notwithstanding the foregoing, the Investment Advisor shall reimburse the Portfolio for such excess expenses regardless of the amount of such fees payable to it during such fiscal year to the extent that the securities regulations of any state in which the Shares are registered or qualified for sale so require.
10. Compensation.
(a) For the services provided and the expenses assumed pursuant to this Agreement with respect to the Portfolio, the Company will pay the Investment Advisor from the assets of the Portfolio and the Investment Advisor will accept as full compensation therefor a fee, computed daily and payable monthly, at the following annual rate: 0.45% of - the first $250 million of the Portfolios average daily net assets, 0.40% of the next $250 million of the Portfolios average daily net assets, and 0.35% of the Portfolios average daily net assets in excess of $500 million.
(b) The fee attributable to the Portfolio shall be satisfied only against the assets of the Portfolio and not against the assets of any other investment portfolio of the Company.
11. Limitation of Liability of the Investment Advisor. The Investment Advisor shall
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not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Company in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty with respect to the receipt of compensation for services or a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Investment Advisor in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by it of its obligations and duties under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Investment Advisor shall be liable to the Company for the acts and omissions of the Sub-Advisor to the extent that the Sub-Advisor is liable to the Investment Advisor for such acts or omissions under the Sub-Advisory Agreement between the Investment Advisor and the Sub-Advisor.
12. Duration and Termination. This Agreement shall become effective with respect to the Portfolio upon approval of this Agreement by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio and, unless sooner terminated as provided herein, shall continue with respect to the Portfolio until August 16, 2007. Thereafter, if not terminated, this Agreement shall continue with respect to the Portfolio for successive annual periods ending on August 16 th , provided such continuance is specifically approved at least annually (a) by the vote of a majority of those members of the Board of Directors of the Company who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, and (b) by the Board of Directors of the Company or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio; provided, however, that this Agreement may be terminated with respect to the Portfolio by the Company at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by the Board of Directors of the Company or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio, on 60 days written notice to the Investment Advisor, or by the Investment Advisor at any time, without payment of any penalty, on 90 days written notice to the Company. This Agreement will immediately terminate in the event of its assignment. (As used in this Agreement, the terms majority of the outstanding voting securities, interested person and assignment shall have the same meaning as such terms have in the 1940 Act.)
13. Delegation. On thirty (30) days prior written notice to the Portfolio, the Investment Advisor may delegate those of its duties set forth in Paragraph 5 hereof to any wholly-owned direct or indirect subsidiary of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. provided that (i) the delegate agrees with the Investment Advisor to comply with all relevant provisions of the 1940 Act; and (ii) the Investment Advisor and such delegate shall promptly provide such information as the Portfolio may request, and respond to such questions as the Portfolio may ask, relative to the delegation, including (without limitation) the capabilities of the delegate. Any delegation under this Paragraph shall not be deemed an assignment for purposes of paragraph 12 hereof. Notwithstanding any such delegation, the Investment Advisor shall remain responsible for the performance of its duties set forth in Paragraph 5 hereof and shall hold the Portfolio harmless from the acts and omissions, under the standards of care provided for herein, of any delegate chosen pursuant to this Paragraph 13.
14. Amendment of this Agreement. No provision of this Agreement may be changed, discharged or terminated orally, except by an instrument in writing signed by the party against which enforcement of the change, discharge or termination is sought, and no amendment of this Agreement affecting the Portfolio shall be effective until approved by vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio.
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15. Miscellaneous. The captions in this Agreement are included for convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and shall be governed by Delaware law.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed by their officers designated below as of the day and year first above written.
THE RBB FUND, INC. |
||
By: |
/s/ Edward J. Roach |
|
President |
||
BLACKROCK INSTITUTIONAL MANAGEMENT CORPORATION |
||
By: |
/s/ Paul L. Audet |
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Exhibit 99.(d)(28)
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of February 28, 2007, between THE RBB FUND, INC., a Maryland corporation (herein called the Fund), and BEAR STEARNS ASSET MANAGEMENT INC. (herein called the Investment Adviser).
WHEREAS, the Fund is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the 1940 Act), and currently offers or proposes to offer shares representing interests in separate investment portfolios;
WHEREAS, the Fund desires to retain the Investment Adviser to render certain investment advisory services to the Fund with respect to the Funds Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund (the Portfolio), and the Investment Adviser is willing to so render such services; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Fund have approved this Agreement, and the Adviser is willing to furnish such services upon the terms and conditions herein set forth;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, it is agreed between the parties hereto as follows:
SECTION 1. APPOINTMENT. The Fund hereby appoints the Investment Adviser to act as investment adviser for the Portfolio for the period and on the terms set forth in this Agreement. The Investment Adviser accepts such appointment and agrees to render the services herein set forth for the compensation herein provided.
SECTION 2. DELIVERY OF DOCUMENTS. The Fund has furnished the Investment Adviser with copies properly certified or authenticated of each of the following:
(a) Resolutions of the Board of Directors of the Fund authorizing the appointment of the Investment Adviser and the execution and delivery of this Agreement;
(b) Each prospectus and statement of additional information relating to any class of Shares representing interests in the Portfolio of the Fund in effect under the Securities Act of 1933 (such prospectus and statement of additional information, as presently in effect and as they shall from time to time be amended and supplemented, are herein collectively called the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, respectively).
The Fund will promptly furnish the Investment Adviser from time to time with copies, properly certified or authenticated, of all amendments of or supplements to the foregoing, if any.
In addition to the foregoing, the Fund will also provide the Investment Adviser with copies of the Funds Charter and By-laws, and any registration statement or service contracts related to the Portfolio, and will promptly furnish the Investment Adviser with any amendments of or supplements to such documents.
SECTION 3. MANAGEMENT. Subject to the supervision of the Board of Directors of the Fund, the Investment Adviser will provide for the overall management of the Portfolio including (i) the provision of a continuous investment program for the Portfolio, including investment research and management with respect to all securities, investments, cash and cash equivalents in the Portfolio, (ii) the determination from time to time of what securities and other investments will be purchased, retained, or sold by the Fund for the Portfolio, and (iii) the placement from time to time of orders for all purchases and sales made for the Portfolio. The Investment Adviser will provide the services rendered by it hereunder in accordance with the Portfolios investment objectives, restrictions and policies as stated in the applicable Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, provided that the Investment Adviser has actual notice or knowledge of any changes by the Board of Directors to such investment objectives, restrictions or policies. The Investment Adviser further agrees that it will render to the Funds Board of Directors such periodic and special reports regarding the performance of its duties under this Agreement as the Board may reasonably request. The Investment Adviser agrees to provide to the Fund (or its agents and service providers) prompt and accurate data with respect to the Portfolios transactions and, where not otherwise available, the daily valuation of securities in the Portfolio.
SECTION 4. BROKERAGE. Subject to the Investment Advisers obligation to obtain best price and execution, the Investment Adviser shall have full discretion to select brokers or dealers to effect the purchase and sale of securities. When the Investment Adviser places orders for the purchase or sale of securities for the Portfolio, in selecting brokers or dealers to execute such orders, the Investment Adviser is expressly authorized to consider the fact that a broker or dealer has furnished statistical, research or other information or services for the benefit of the Portfolio directly or indirectly. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Investment Adviser is authorized to cause the Portfolio to pay brokerage commissions which may be in excess of the lowest rates available to brokers who execute transactions for the Portfolio or who otherwise provide brokerage and research services utilized by the Investment Adviser, provided that the Investment Adviser determines in good faith that the amount of each such commission paid to a broker is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker viewed in terms of either the particular transaction to which the commission relates or the Investment Advisers overall responsibilities with respect to accounts as to which the Investment Adviser exercises investment discretion. The Investment Adviser may aggregate securities orders so long as the Investment Adviser adheres to a policy of allocating investment opportunities to the Portfolio over a period of time on a fair and equitable basis relative to other clients. In no instance will the Portfolios securities be purchased from or sold to the Funds principal underwriter, the Investment Adviser, or any affiliated person thereof, except to the extent permitted by SEC exemptive order or by applicable law.
The Investment Adviser shall report to the Board of Directors of the Fund at least quarterly with respect to brokerage transactions that were entered into by the Investment Adviser, pursuant to the foregoing paragraph, and shall certify to the Board that the commissions paid were reasonable in terms either of that transaction or the overall responsibilities of the
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Investment Adviser to the Fund and the Investment Advisers other clients, that the total commissions paid by the Fund were reasonable in relation to the benefits to the Fund over the long term, and that such commissions were paid in compliance with Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
SECTION 5. CONFORMITY WITH LAW; CONFIDENTIALITY. The Investment Adviser further agrees that it will materially comply with all applicable rules and regulations of all federal regulatory agencies having jurisdiction over the Investment Adviser in the performance of its duties hereunder. The Investment Adviser will treat confidentially and as proprietary information of the Fund all records and other information relating to the Fund and will not use such records and information for any purpose other than performance of its responsibilities and duties hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing by the Fund, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and may not be withheld where the Investment Adviser may be exposed to civil or criminal contempt proceedings for failure to comply, when requested to divulge such information by duly constituted authorities, or when so requested by the Fund. Where the Investment Adviser maybe exposed to civil or criminal contempt proceedings for failure to comply with a request for records or other information relating to the Fund, the Investment Adviser may comply with such request prior to obtaining the Funds written approval, provided that the Investment Adviser has taken reasonable steps to promptly notify the Fund, in writing, upon receipt of the request.
SECTION 6. SERVICES NOT EXCLUSIVE. The Investment Adviser and its officers may act and continue to act as investment managers for others, and nothing in this Agreement shall in any way be deemed to restrict the right of the Investment Adviser to perform investment management or other services for any other person or entity, and the performance of such services for others shall not be deemed to violate or give rise to any duty or obligation to the Portfolio or the Fund.
Nothing in this Agreement shall limit or restrict the Investment Adviser or any of its partners, officers, affiliates or employees from buying, selling or trading in any securities for its or their own account. The Fund acknowledges that the Investment Adviser and its partners, officers, affiliates, employees and other clients may, at any time, have, acquire, increase, decrease, or dispose of positions in investments which are at the same time being acquired or disposed of for the Portfolio. The Investment Adviser shall have no obligation to acquire for the Portfolio a position in any investment which the Investment Adviser, its partners, officers, affiliates or employees may acquire for its or their own accounts or for the account of another client, so long as it continues to be the policy and practice of the Investment Adviser not to favor or disfavor consistently or consciously any client or class of clients in the allocation of investment opportunities so that, to the extent practical, such opportunities will be allocated among clients over a period of time on a fair and equitable basis.
The Investment Adviser agrees that this Section 6 does not constitute a waiver by the Fund of the obligations imposed upon the Investment Adviser to comply with Sections 17(d) and 17(j) of the 1940 Act, and the rules thereunder, nor constitute a waiver by the Fund of the obligations imposed upon the Investment Adviser under Section 206 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and the rules thereunder. Further, the Investment Adviser agrees that this Section 6 does not constitute a waiver by the Fund of the fiduciary obligation of the Investment Adviser
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arising under federal or state law, including Section 36 of the 1940 Act. The Investment Adviser agrees that this Section 6 shall be interpreted consistent with the provisions of Section 17(i) of the 1940 Act.
SECTION 7. BOOKS AND RECORDS. In compliance with the requirements of Rule 3la-3 under the 1940 Act, the Investment Adviser hereby agrees that all records which it maintains for the Portfolio are the property of the Fund and further agrees to surrender promptly to the Fund any of such records upon the Funds request. The Investment Adviser further agrees to preserve for the periods prescribed by Rule 3la-2 under the 1940 Act the records required to be maintained by Rule 3la-1 under the 1940 Act.
SECTION 8. EXPENSES. During the term of this Agreement, the Investment Adviser will pay all expenses incurred by it in connection with its activities under this Agreement. The Portfolio shall bear all of its own expenses not specifically assumed by the Investment Adviser. General expenses of the Fund not readily identifiable as belonging to a Portfolio of the Fund shall be allocated among all investment portfolios by or under the direction of the Funds Board of Directors in such manner as the Board determines to be fair and equitable. Expenses borne by the Portfolio shall include, but are not limited to, the following (or the Portfolios share of the following): (a) the cost (including brokerage commissions) of securities purchased or sold by the Portfolio and any losses incurred in connection therewith; (b) fees payable to and expenses incurred on behalf of the Portfolio by the Investment Adviser; (c) filing fees and expenses relating to the registration and qualification of the Fund and the Portfolios shares under federal and/or state securities laws and maintaining such registrations and qualifications; (d) fees and salaries payable to the Funds directors and officers; (e) taxes (including any income or franchise taxes) and governmental fees; (f) costs of any liability and other insurance or fidelity bonds; (g) any costs, expenses or losses arising out a liability of or claim for damages or other relief asserted against the Fund or the Portfolio for violation of any law; (h) legal, accounting and auditing expenses, including legal fees of special counsel for the independent directors; (i) charges of custodians and other agents; (j) expenses of setting in type and printing prospectuses, statements of additional information and supplements thereto for existing shareholders, reports, statements, and confirmations to shareholders and proxy material that are not attributable to a class; (k) costs of mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information and supplements thereto to existing shareholders, as well as reports to shareholders and proxy material that are not attributable to a class; (1) any extraordinary expenses; (m) fees, voluntary assessments and other expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company organizations; (n) costs of mailing and tabulating proxies and costs of shareholders and directors meetings; (o) costs of independent pricing services to value a portfolios securities; and (p) the costs of investment company literature and other publications provided by the Fund to its directors and officers. Distribution expenses, transfer agency expenses, expenses of preparation, printing and mailing, prospectuses, statements of additional information, proxy statements and reports to shareholders, and organizational expenses and registration fees, identified as belonging to a particular class of the Fund are allocated to such class.
SECTION 9. VOTING. The Investment Adviser shall have the authority to vote as agent for the Fund, either in person or by proxy, tender and take all actions incident to the ownership of all securities in which the Portfolios assets may be invested from time to time, subject to such policies and procedures as the Board of Directors of the Fund may adopt from time to time.
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SECTION 10. RESERVATION OF NAME. The Investment Adviser shall at all times have all rights in and to the Portfolios name and all investment models used by or on behalf of the Portfolio. The Investment Adviser may use the Portfolios name or any portion thereof in connection with any other mutual fund or business activity without the consent of any shareholder and the Fund shall execute and deliver any and all documents required to indicate the consent of the Fund to such use. The Fund hereby agrees that in the event that neither the Investment Adviser nor any of its affiliates acts as investment adviser to the Portfolio, the name of the Portfolio will be changed to one that does not contain the names Bear Stearns or the initials BS or otherwise suggest an affiliation with the Investment Adviser.
SECTION 11. COMPENSATION. (a) For the services provided and the expenses assumed pursuant to this Agreement with respect to the Portfolio, the Fund will pay the Investment Adviser from the assets of the Portfolio and the Investment Adviser will accept as full compensation therefor a fee, computed daily and payable monthly, at the annual rate of 0.16% of the Portfolios average daily net assets. For any period less than a full month during which this Agreement is in effect, the fee shall be prorated according to the proportion which such period bears to a full month. (b) The fee attributable to the Portfolio shall be satisfied only against assets of the Portfolio and not against the assets of any other investment portfolio of the Fund. The Investment Adviser may from time to time agree not to impose all or a portion of its fee otherwise payable hereunder (in advance of the time such fee or portion thereof would otherwise accrue) and/or undertake to pay or reimburse the Portfolio for all or a portion of its expenses not otherwise required to be borne or reimbursed by the Investment Adviser.
SECTION 12. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. The Investment Adviser shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Fund in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty with respect to the receipt of compensation for services or a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Investment Adviser in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by it of its obligations and duties under this Agreement (disabling conduct). The Portfolio will indemnify the Investment Adviser against and hold it harmless from any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (including reasonable counsel fees and expenses) resulting from any claim, demand, action or suit not resulting from disabling conduct by the Investment Adviser. Indemnification shall be made only following: (i) a final decision on the merits by a court or other body before whom the proceeding was brought that the Investment Adviser was not liable by reason of disabling conduct or (ii) in the absence of such a decision, a reasonable determination, based upon a review of the facts, that the Investment Adviser was not liable by reason of disabling conduct by (a) the vote of a majority of a quorum of directors of the Fund who are neither interested persons of the Fund nor parties to the proceeding (disinterested non-party directors) or (b) an independent legal counsel in a written opinion. The Investment Adviser shall be entitled to advances from the Portfolio for payment of the reasonable expenses incurred by it in connection with the matter as to which it is seeking indemnification in the manner and to the fullest extent permissible under the Maryland General Corporation Law. The Investment Adviser shall provide to the Portfolio a written affirmation of its good faith belief that the
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standard of conduct necessary for indemnification by the Portfolio has been met and a written undertaking to repay any such advance if it should ultimately be determined that the standard of conduct has not been met. In addition, at least one of the following additional conditions shall be met: (a) the Investment Adviser shall provide a security in form and amount acceptable to the Portfolio for its undertaking; (b) the Portfolio is insured against losses arising by reason of the advance; or (c) a majority of a quorum of disinterested non-party directors, or independent legal counsel, in a written opinion, shall have determined, based upon a review of facts readily available to the Portfolio at the time the advance is proposed to be made, that there is reason to believe that the Investment Adviser will ultimately be found to be entitled to indemnification. Any amounts payable by the Portfolio under this Section shall be satisfied only against the assets of the Portfolio and not against the assets of any other investment portfolio of the Fund.
The limitations on liability and indemnification provisions of this Section 12 shall not be applicable to any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses arising from the Investment Advisers rights to the Portfolios name. The Investment Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Fund and the Portfolio for any claims arising from the use of the term Bear Stearns or BS in the name of the Portfolio.
SECTION 13. DURATION AND TERMINATION. This Agreement shall become effective with respect to the Portfolio as of the date first above written and, unless sooner terminated as provided herein, shall continue with respect to the Portfolio until August 16, 2007. Thereafter, if not terminated, this Agreement shall continue with respect to the Portfolio for successive annual periods ending on August 16, provided such continuance is specifically approved at least annually (a) by the vote of a majority of those members of the Board of Directors of the Fund who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, and (b) by the Board of Directors of the Fund or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio; provided , however , that this Agreement may be terminated with respect to the Portfolio by the Fund at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by the Board of Directors of the Fund or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio, on 60 days prior written notice to the Investment Adviser, or by the Investment Adviser at any time, without payment of any penalty, on 60 days prior written notice to the Fund. This Agreement will immediately terminate in the event of its assignment. (As used in this Agreement, the terms majority of the outstanding voting securities, interested person and assignment shall have the same meaning as such terms have in the 1940 Act).
SECTION 14. AMENDMENT OF THIS AGREEMENT. No provision of this Agreement may be changed, discharged or terminated orally, except by an instrument in writing signed by the party against which enforcement of the change, discharge or termination is sought, and no amendment of this Agreement affecting the Portfolio shall be effective until approved by vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio.
SECTION 15. MISCELLANEOUS. The captions in this Agreement are included for convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and shall be governed by Delaware law.
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SECTION 16. NOTICE. All notices hereunder shall be given in writing and delivered by hand, national overnight courier, facsimile (provided written confirmation of receipt is obtained and said notice is sent via first class mail on the next business day) or mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested, as follows:
If to the Investment Adviser:
Bear Stearns Asset Management Inc.
383 Madison Ave.
New York, NY 10179
Attn: President with a copy to Chief Operating Officer
Fax: 212-272-7038
If to the Fund:
The RBB Fund, Inc.
103 Bellevue Parkway
Wilmington, DE 19809
Attn: Edward J. Roach
Fax: 302-791-4830
The effective date of any notice shall be (i) the date such notice is sent if such delivery is effected by hand or facsimile, (ii) one business day after the date such notice is sent if such delivery is effected by national overnight courier; or (iii) the fifth (5 th ) Business Day after the date of mailing thereof.
SECTION 17. GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of New York without giving effect to the conflicts of laws principles thereof.
SECTION 18. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed 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 executed by their officers designated below as of the day and year first above written.
THE RBB FUND, INC. | ||
By: |
/s/ Edward J. Roach |
|
Name: |
Edward J. Roach | |
Title: |
President and Treasurer |
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BEAR STEARNS ASSET MANAGEMENT INC. | ||
By: |
/s/ Rajan Govindan |
|
Name: | Rajan Govindan | |
Title: | Senior Managing Director/Chief Operating Officer |
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Exhibit 99.(d)(30)
FORM OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of [ ], 200 , between THE RBB COMPANY, INC., a Maryland corporation (herein called the Company), and ABUNDANCE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. (herein called the Investment Adviser).
WHEREAS, the Company is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the 1940 Act), and currently offers or proposes to offer shares representing interests in separate investment portfolios;
WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the Investment Adviser to render certain investment advisory services to the Company with respect to the Companys Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and Free market Fixed Income Fund (the Funds), and the Investment Adviser is willing to so render such services; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Company have approved this Agreement, and the Adviser is willing to furnish such services upon the terms and conditions herein set forth;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby, it is agreed between the parties hereto as follows:
SECTION 1. APPOINTMENT. The Company hereby appoints the Investment Adviser to act as investment adviser for the Funds for the period and on the terms set forth in this Agreement. The Investment Adviser accepts such appointment and agrees to render the services herein set forth for the compensation herein provided.
SECTION 2. DELIVERY OF DOCUMENTS. The Company has furnished the Investment Adviser with copies properly certified or authenticated of each of the following:
(a) Resolutions of the Board of Directors of the Company authorizing the appointment of the Investment Adviser and the execution and delivery of this Agreement;
(b) Each prospectus and statement of additional information relating to any class of Shares representing interests in the Funds of the Company in effect under the Securities Act of 1933 (such prospectus and statement of additional information, as presently in effect and as they shall from time to time be amended and supplemented, are herein collectively called the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, respectively).
The Company will promptly furnish the Investment Adviser from time to time with copies, properly certified or authenticated, of all amendments of or supplements to the foregoing, if any.
In addition to the foregoing, the Company will also provide the Investment Adviser with copies of the Companys Charter and By-laws, and any registration statement or service contracts related to the Funds, and will promptly furnish the Investment Adviser with any amendments of or supplements to such documents.
SECTION 3. MANAGEMENT. Subject to the supervision of the Board of Directors of the Company, the Investment Adviser will provide for the overall management of the Funds including (i) the provision of a continuous investment program for the Funds, including investment research and management with respect to all securities, investments, cash and cash equivalents in the Funds, (ii) the determination from time to time of what securities and other investments will be purchased, retained, or sold by the Company for the Funds, and (iii) the placement from time to time of orders for all purchases and sales made for the Funds. The Investment Adviser will provide the services rendered by it hereunder in accordance with the Funds investment objectives, restrictions and policies as stated in the applicable Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, provided that the Investment Adviser has actual notice or knowledge of any changes by the Board of Directors to such investment objectives, restrictions or policies. The Investment Adviser further agrees that it will render to the Companys Board of Directors such periodic and special reports regarding the performance of its duties under this Agreement as the Board may reasonably request. The Investment Adviser agrees to provide to the Company (or its agents and service providers) prompt and accurate data with respect to the Funds transactions and, where not otherwise available, the daily valuation of securities in the Funds.
SECTION 4. BROKERAGE. Subject to the Investment Advisers obligation to obtain best price and execution, the Investment Adviser shall have full discretion to select brokers or dealers to effect the purchase and sale of securities. When the Investment Adviser places orders for the purchase or sale of securities for the Funds, in selecting brokers or dealers to execute such orders, the Investment Adviser is expressly authorized to consider the fact that a broker or dealer has furnished statistical, research or other information or services for the benefit of the Funds directly or indirectly. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Investment Adviser is authorized to cause the Funds to pay brokerage commissions which may be in excess of the lowest rates available to brokers who execute transactions for the Funds or who otherwise provide brokerage and research services utilized by the Investment Adviser, provided that the Investment Adviser determines in good faith that the amount of each such commission paid to a broker is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker viewed in terms of either the particular transaction to which the commission relates or the Investment Advisers overall responsibilities with respect to accounts as to which the Investment Adviser exercises investment discretion. The Investment Adviser may aggregate securities orders so long as the Investment Adviser adheres to a policy of allocating investment opportunities to the Funds over a period of time on a fair and equitable basis relative to other clients. In no instance will the Funds securities be purchased from or sold to the Companys principal underwriter, the Investment Adviser, or any affiliated person thereof, except to the extent permitted by SEC exemptive order or by applicable law.
The Investment Adviser shall report to the Board of Directors of the Company at least quarterly with respect to brokerage transactions that were entered into by the Investment Adviser, pursuant to the foregoing paragraph, and shall certify to the Board that the commissions
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paid were reasonable in terms either of that transaction or the overall responsibilities of the Investment Adviser to the Company and the Investment Advisers other clients, that the total commissions paid by the Company were reasonable in relation to the benefits to the Company over the long term, and that such commissions were paid in compliance with Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
SECTION 5. CONFORMITY WITH LAW; CONFIDENTIALITY. The Investment Adviser further agrees that it will comply with all applicable rules and regulations of all federal regulatory agencies having jurisdiction over the Investment Adviser in the performance of its duties hereunder. The Investment Adviser will treat confidentially and as proprietary information of the Company all records and other information relating to the Company and will not use such records and information for any purpose other than performance of its responsibilities and duties hereunder, except after prior notification to and approval in writing by the Company, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld and may not be withheld where the Investment Adviser may be exposed to civil or criminal contempt proceedings for failure to comply, when requested to divulge such information by duly constituted authorities, or when so requested by the Company. Where the Investment Adviser may be exposed to civil or criminal contempt proceedings for failure to comply with a request for records or other information relating to the Company, the Investment Adviser may comply with such request prior to obtaining the Companys written approval, provided that the Investment Adviser has taken reasonable steps to promptly notify the Company, in writing, upon receipt of the request.
SECTION 6. SERVICES NOT EXCLUSIVE. The Investment Adviser and its officers may act and continue to act as investment managers for others, and nothing in this Agreement shall in any way be deemed to restrict the right of the Investment Adviser to perform investment management or other services for any other person or entity, and the performance of such services for others shall not be deemed to violate or give rise to any duty or obligation to the Funds or the Company.
Nothing in this Agreement shall limit or restrict the Investment Adviser or any of its partners, officers, affiliates or employees from buying, selling or trading in any securities for its or their own account. The Company acknowledges that the Investment Adviser and its partners, officers, affiliates, employees and other clients may, at any time, have, acquire, increase, decrease, or dispose of positions in investments which are at the same time being acquired or disposed of for the Funds. The Investment Adviser shall have no obligation to acquire for the Funds a position in any investment which the Investment Adviser, its partners, officers, affiliates or employees may acquire for its or their own accounts or for the account of another client, so long as it continues to be the policy and practice of the Investment Adviser not to favor or disfavor consistently or consciously any client or class of clients in the allocation of investment opportunities so that, to the extent practical, such opportunities will be allocated among clients over a period of time on a fair and equitable basis.
The Investment Adviser agrees that this Section 6 does not constitute a waiver by the Company of the obligations imposed upon the Investment Adviser to comply with Sections 17(d) and 17(j) of the 1940 Act, and the rules thereunder, nor constitute a waiver by the Company of the obligations imposed upon the Investment Adviser under Section 206 of the
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Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and the rules thereunder. Further, the Investment Adviser agrees that this Section 6 does not constitute a waiver by the Company of the fiduciary obligation of the Investment Adviser arising under federal or state law, including Section 36 of the 1940 Act. The Investment Adviser agrees that this Section 6 shall be interpreted consistent with the provisions of Section 17(i) of the 1940 Act.
SECTION 7. BOOKS AND RECORDS. In compliance with the requirements of Rule 3la-3 under the 1940 Act, the Investment Adviser hereby agrees that all records which it maintains for the Funds are the property of the Company and further agrees to surrender promptly to the Company any of such records upon the Companys request. The Investment Adviser further agrees to preserve for the periods prescribed by Rule 3la-2 under the 1940 Act the records required to be maintained by Rule 3la-1 under the 1940 Act.
SECTION 8. EXPENSES. During the term of this Agreement, the Investment Adviser will pay all expenses incurred by it in connection with its activities under this Agreement. The Funds shall bear all of its own expenses not specifically assumed by the Investment Adviser. General expenses of the Company not readily identifiable as belonging to a Fund of the Company shall be allocated among all investment portfolios by or under the direction of the Companys Board of Directors in such manner as the Board determines to be fair and equitable. Expenses borne by the Funds shall include, but are not limited to, the following (or the Funds share of the following): (a) the cost (including brokerage commissions) of securities purchased or sold by the Funds and any losses incurred in connection therewith; (b) fees payable to and expenses incurred on behalf of the Funds by the Investment Adviser; (c) filing fees and expenses relating to the registration and qualification of the Company and the Funds shares under federal and/or state securities laws and maintaining such registrations and qualifications; (d) fees and salaries payable to the Companys directors and officers; (e) taxes (including any income or franchise taxes) and governmental fees; (f) costs of any liability and other insurance or fidelity bonds; (g) any costs, expenses or losses arising out a liability of or claim for damages or other relief asserted against the Company or the Funds for violation of any law; (h) legal, accounting and auditing expenses, including legal fees of special counsel for the independent directors; (i) charges of custodians and other agents; (j) expenses of setting in type and printing prospectuses, statements of additional information and supplements thereto for existing shareholders, reports, statements, and confirmations to shareholders and proxy material that are not attributable to a class; (k) costs of mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information and supplements thereto to existing shareholders, as well as reports to shareholders and proxy material that are not attributable to a class; (1) any extraordinary expenses; (m) fees, voluntary assessments and other expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company organizations; (n) costs of mailing and tabulating proxies and costs of shareholders and directors meetings; (o) costs of independent pricing services to value a portfolios securities; and (p) the costs of investment company literature and other publications provided by the Company to its directors and officers. Distribution expenses, transfer agency expenses, expenses of preparation, printing and mailing, prospectuses, statements of additional information, proxy statements and reports to shareholders, and organizational expenses and registration fees, identified as belonging to a particular class of the Company are allocated to such class.
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SECTION 9. VOTING. The Investment Adviser shall have the authority to vote as agent for the Company, either in person or by proxy, tender and take all actions incident to the ownership of all securities in which the Funds assets may be invested from time to time, subject to such policies and procedures as the Board of Directors of the Company may adopt from time to time.
SECTION 10. RESERVATION OF NAME. The Investment Adviser shall at all times have all rights in and to the Funds name and all investment models used by or on behalf of the Funds. The Investment Adviser may use the Funds name or any portion thereof in connection with any other mutual Company or business activity without the consent of any shareholder and the Company shall execute and deliver any and all documents required to indicate the consent of the Company to such use. The Company hereby agrees that in the event that neither the Investment Adviser nor any of its affiliates act as investment adviser to the Funds, the name of the Funds will be changed to one that does not contain the names Bear Stearns or the initials BS or otherwise suggest an affiliation with the Investment Adviser.
SECTION 11. COMPENSATION. (a) For the services provided and the expenses assumed pursuant to this Agreement with respect to the Funds, the Company will pay the Investment Adviser from the assets of the Funds and the Investment Adviser will accept as full compensation therefor a fee, computed daily and payable monthly, at the annual rate of 0.50% of the Funds average daily net assets. For any period less than a full month during which this Agreement is in effect, the fee shall be prorated according to the proportion which such period bears to a full month. (b) The fee attributable to the Funds shall be satisfied only against assets of the Funds and not against the assets of any other investment portfolio of the Company. The Investment Adviser may from time to time agree not to impose all or a portion of its fee otherwise payable hereunder (in advance of the time such fee or portion thereof would otherwise accrue) and/or undertake to pay or reimburse the Funds for all or a portion of its expenses not otherwise required to be borne or reimbursed by the Investment Adviser.
SECTION 12. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY. The Investment Adviser shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Company in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty with respect to the receipt of compensation for services or a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Investment Adviser in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by it of its obligations and duties under this Agreement (disabling conduct). The Funds will indemnify the Investment Adviser against and hold it harmless from any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (including reasonable counsel fees and expenses) resulting from any claim, demand, action or suit not resulting from disabling conduct by the Investment Adviser. Indemnification shall be made only following: (i) a final decision on the merits by a court or other body before whom the proceeding was brought that the Investment Adviser was not liable by reason of disabling conduct or (ii) in the absence of such a decision, a reasonable determination, based upon a review of the facts, that the Investment Adviser was not liable by reason of disabling conduct by (a) the vote of a majority of a quorum of directors of the Company who are neither interested persons of the Company nor parties to the proceeding (disinterested non-party directors) or (b) an independent legal counsel in a written opinion. The Investment Adviser
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shall be entitled to advances from the Funds for payment of the reasonable expenses incurred by it in connection with the matter as to which it is seeking indemnification in the manner and to the fullest extent permissible under the Maryland General Corporation Law. The Investment Adviser shall provide to the Funds a written affirmation of its good faith belief that the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification by the Funds has been met and a written undertaking to repay any such advance if it should ultimately be determined that the standard of conduct has not been met. In addition, at least one of the following additional conditions shall be met: (a) the Investment Adviser shall provide a security in form and amount acceptable to the Funds for its undertaking; (b) the Funds is insured against losses arising by reason of the advance; or (c) a majority of a quorum of disinterested non-party directors, or independent legal counsel, in a written opinion, shall have determined, based upon a review of facts readily available to the Funds at the time the advance is proposed to be made, that there is reason to believe that the Investment Adviser will ultimately be found to be entitled to indemnification. Any amounts payable by the Funds under this Section shall be satisfied only against the assets of the Funds and not against the assets of any other investment portfolio of the Company.
The limitations on liability and indemnification provisions of this Section 12 shall not be applicable to any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses arising from the Investment Advisers rights to the Funds name. The Investment Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Company and the Funds for any claims arising from the use of the term Bear Stearns or BS in the name of the Funds.
SECTION 13. DURATION AND TERMINATION. This Agreement shall become effective with respect to the Funds as of the date first above written and, unless sooner terminated as provided herein, shall continue with respect to the Funds until August 16, 2007. Thereafter, if not terminated, this Agreement shall continue with respect to the Funds for successive annual periods ending on August 16, provided such continuance is specifically approved at least annually (a) by the vote of a majority of those members of the Board of Directors of the Company who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, and (b) by the Board of Directors of the Company or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Funds; provided , however , that this Agreement may be terminated with respect to the Funds by the Company at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by the Board of Directors of the Company or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Funds, on 60 days prior written notice to the Investment Adviser, or by the Investment Adviser at any time, without payment of any penalty, on 60 days prior written notice to the Company. This Agreement will immediately terminate in the event of its assignment. (As used in this Agreement, the terms majority of the outstanding voting securities, interested person and assignment shall have the same meaning as such terms have in the 1940 Act).
SECTION 14. AMENDMENT OF THIS AGREEMENT. No provision of this Agreement may be changed, discharged or terminated orally, except by an instrument in writing signed by the party against which enforcement of the change, discharge or termination is sought, and no amendment of this Agreement affecting the Funds shall be effective until approved by vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Funds.
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SECTION 15. MISCELLANEOUS. The captions in this Agreement are included for convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and shall be governed by Delaware law.
SECTION 16. NOTICE. All notices hereunder shall be given in writing and delivered by hand, national overnight courier, facsimile (provided written confirmation of receipt is obtained and said notice is sent via first class mail on the next business day) or mailed by certified mail, return receipt requested, as follows:
If to the Investment Adviser:
Abundance Technologies, Inc.
[address]
[facsimile number]
If to the Company:
The RBB Company, Inc.
301 Bellevue Parkway, 4 th Floor
Wilmington, DE 19809
Attn: Edward J. Roach
Fax: 302-791-4830
The effective date of any notice shall be (i) the date such notice is sent if such delivery is effected by hand or facsimile, (ii) one business day after the date such notice is sent if such delivery is effected by national overnight courier; or (iii) the fifth (5 th ) Business Day after the date of mailing thereof.
SECTION 17. GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware without giving effect to the conflicts of laws principles thereof.
SECTION 18. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed 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.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed by their officers designated below as of the day and year first above written.
THE RBB COMPANY, INC. | ||
By: |
|
|
Name: | Edward J. Roach | |
Title: | President and Treasurer | |
ABUNDANCE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. |
||
By: |
|
|
Name: | ||
Title: |
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Exhibit 99.(d)(36)
[Abundance Letterhead]
, 200
Edward J. Roach
President
The RBB Fund, Inc.
Bellevue Park Corporate Center
301 Bellevue Parkway, 4 th Floor
Wilmington, DE 19809
Re: |
The RBB Fund, Inc. - Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Fund and Free Market Fixed Income Fund (the Funds) |
Dear Mr. Roach:
By our execution of this letter agreement (this Agreement), intending to be legally bound hereby, Abundance Technologies, Inc. (the Adviser) agrees that in order to improve the performance of the Funds, the Adviser shall, from September 1, 200 7 through December 31, 200 7, waive all or a portion of its investment advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses (other than brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes) in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which each Funds total operating expenses (other than brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes) exceed a total operating expense ratio (other than brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes) of 1.13%, 1.35% and 1.00% of the average daily net assets of the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Fund and Free Market Fixed Income Fund, respectively.
The Adviser acknowledges that (1) it shall not be entitled to collect on or make a claim for waived fees at any time in the future, and (2) it shall not be entitled to collect on or make a claim for reimbursed Fund expenses at any time in the future.
ABUNDANCE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | ||
By: |
|
|
Name: |
||
Title: |
Your signature below acknowledges
acceptance of this Agreement:
By: |
|
|
Edward J. Roach |
||
President |
||
The RBB Fund, Inc. |
Exhibit 99.(e)(12)
DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT SUPPLEMENT
The RBB Fund, Inc.
(Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund)
This supplemental agreement is entered into this 28 day of February, 2007, by and between THE RBB FUND, INC. (the Company) and PFPC DISTRIBUTORS, INC. (the Distributor).
The Company is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Maryland and is an open-end management investment company. The Company and the Distributor have entered into a Distribution Agreement, dated as of January 2,2001 (as from time to time amended and supplemented, the Distribution Agreement), pursuant to which the Distributor has undertaken to act as distributor for the Company, as more fully set forth therein. Certain capitalized terms used without definition in this Distribution Agreement Supplement have the meaning specified in the Distribution Agreement.
The Company agrees with the Distributor as follows:
1. Adoption of Distribution Agreement. The Distribution Agreement is hereby adopted for the Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund Class of Common Stock of the Company (the Class).
2. Payment of Fees. For all services to be rendered, facilities furnished and expenses paid or assumed by the Distributor on behalf of the Class as provided in the Distribution Agreement and herein, the Company shall pay the Distributor no compensation.
3. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed 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 undersigned have entered into this Agreement, intending to be legally bound hereby, as of the date and year first above written.
THE RBB FUND, INC. | PFPC DISTRIBUTORS, INC. | |||||||
By: |
|
By: |
|
|||||
Name: |
Edward J. Roach |
Name: |
||||||
Title: |
President |
Title: |
Exhibit 99.(e)(14)
FORM OF DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT SUPPLEMENT
The RBB Fund, Inc.
Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and
Free Market Fixed Income Fund
This supplemental agreement is entered into this day of , 200 , by and between THE RBB FUND, INC. (the Company) and PFPC DISTRIBUTORS, INC. (the Distributor).
The Company is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Maryland and is an open-end management investment company. The Company and the Distributor have entered into a Distribution Agreement, dated as of January 2, 2001 (as from time to time amended and supplemented, the Distribution Agreement), pursuant to which the Distributor has undertaken to act as distributor for the Company, as more fully set forth therein. Certain capitalized terms used without definition in this Distribution Agreement Supplement have the meaning specified in the Distribution Agreement.
The Company agrees with the Distributor as follows:
1. Adoption of Distribution Agreement . The Distribution Agreement is hereby adopted for the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and Free Market Fixed Income Fund Classes of Common Stock of the Company (the Classes).
2. Payment of Fees . For all services to be rendered, facilities furnished and expenses paid or assumed by the Distributor on behalf of the Classes as provided in the Distribution Agreement and herein, the Company shall pay the Distributor no compensation.
3. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed 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 undersigned have entered into this Agreement, intending to be legally bound hereby, as of the date and year first above written.
THE RBB FUND, INC. | PFPC DISTRIBUTORS, INC. | |||||||
By: |
|
By: |
|
|||||
Name: |
Edward J. Roach | Name: | ||||||
Title: |
President | Title: |
Exhibit 99.(g)(22)
CUSTODIAN AGREEMENT SUPPLEMENT
(Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund of The RBB Fund, Inc.)
This supplemental agreement is entered into this 28 day of February, 2007 by and between THE RBB FUND, INC. (the Fund) and PFPC Trust Company (PFPC Trust).
The Fund is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Maryland and is an open-end management investment company. The Fund and PFPC Trust have entered into a Custodian Agreement, dated as of August 16, 1988 (as from time to time amended and supplemented, the Custodian Agreement), pursuant to which PFPC Trust has undertaken to act as custodian for the Fund with respect to the portfolios of the Fund, as more fully set forth therein. Certain capitalized terms used without definition in this Custodian Agreement Supplement have the meaning specified in the Custodian Agreement.
The Fund agrees with the Custodian as follows:
1. | Adoption of Custodian Agreement . The Custodian Agreement is hereby adopted for Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund (the Portfolio). |
2. | Compensation . As compensation for the services rendered by the Custodian during the term of the Custodian Agreement, the Fund will pay to the Custodian, with respect to the Portfolio, monthly fees as shall be agreed to from time to time by the Fund and PFPC Trust. |
3. | Counterparts . This Supplement may be executed 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 undersigned have entered into this Supplement, intending to be legally abound hereby, as of the date and year first above written.
THE RBB FUND, INC. | PFPC TRUST COMPANY | |||||||
By: |
|
By: |
|
|||||
Name: |
EDWARD J. ROACH |
Name: |
Edward A. Smith, III | |||||
Title: |
PRESIDENT & TREASURER |
Title: |
Vice President |
Exhibit 99.(g)(24)
FORM OF CUSTODIAN AGREEMENT SUPPLEMENT
(Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and Free Market Fixed
Income Fund of The RBB Fund, Inc.)
This supplemental agreement is entered into this day of , 200 by and between THE RBB FUND, INC. (the Company) and PFPC Trust Company (PFPC Trust).
The Company is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Maryland and is an open-end management investment company. The Company and PFPC Trust have entered into a Custodian Agreement, dated as of August 16, 1988 (as from time to time amended and supplemented, the Custodian Agreement), pursuant to which PFPC Trust has undertaken to act as custodian for the Company with respect to the portfolios of the Company, as more fully set forth therein. Certain capitalized terms used without definition in this Custodian Agreement Supplement have the meaning specified in the Custodian Agreement.
The Company agrees with the Custodian as follows:
1. | Adoption of Custodian Agreement . The Custodian Agreement is hereby adopted for the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and Free Market Fixed Income Fund (the Funds). |
2. | Compensation . As compensation for the services rendered by the Custodian during the term of the Custodian Agreement, the Company will pay to the Custodian, with respect to the Funds, monthly fees as shall be agreed to from time to time by the Company and PFPC Trust. |
3. | Counterparts . This Supplement may be executed 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 undersigned have entered into this Supplement, intending to be legally abound hereby, as of the date and year first above written.
THE RBB FUND, INC. | PFPC TRUST COMPANY | |||||||
By: |
|
By: |
|
|||||
Name: |
|
Name: |
|
|||||
Title: |
|
Title: |
|
Exhibit 99.(h)(79)
ADMINISTRATION AND ACCOUNTING SERVICES AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made as of February 28, 2007 by and between PFPC Inc., a Massachusetts corporation (PFPC) and The RBB Fund, Inc. a Maryland corporation (the Fund).
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the Fund is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act); and
WHEREAS, the Fund wishes to retain PFPC to provide administration and accounting services to Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund (the Portfolio), and PFPC wishes to furnish such services.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual covenants herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. | Definitions. As used in this Agreement : |
(a) | 1933 Act means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. |
(b) | 1934 Act means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. |
(c) | Authorized Person means any officer of the Fund and any other person duly authorized by the Funds Board of Directors to give Oral Instructions and Written Instructions on behalf of the Fund. An Authorized Persons scope of authority may be limited by setting forth such limitation in a written document signed by both parties hereto. |
(d) | CEA means the Commodities Exchange Act, as amended. |
(e) |
Change of Control means a change in ownership or control (not including |
transactions between wholly-owned direct or indirect subsidiaries of a common parent) of 25% or more of the beneficial ownership of the shares of common stock or shares of beneficial interest of an entity or its parent(s). |
(f) | Oral Instructions mean oral instructions received by PFPC from an Authorized Person or from a person reasonably believed by PFPC to be an Authorized Person. PFPC may, in its sole discretion in each separate instance, consider and rely upon instructions it receives from an Authorized Person via electronic mail as Oral Instructions. |
(g) | SEC means the Securities and Exchange Commission. |
(h) | Securities Laws means the 1933 Act, the 1934 Act, the 1940 Act and the CEA. |
(i) | Shares means the shares of beneficial interest of any series or class of the Fund. |
(j) | Written Instructions mean (i) written instructions signed by an Authorized Person and received by PFPC or (ii) trade instructions transmitted (and received by PFPC) by means of an electronic transaction reporting system access to which requires use of a password or other authorized identifier. The instructions may be delivered by hand, mail, tested telegram, cable, telex or facsimile sending device. |
2. | Appointment . The Fund hereby appoints PFPC to provide administration and accounting services to the Portfolio, in accordance with the terms set forth in this Agreement, PFPC accepts such appointment and agrees to furnish such services. |
3. | Information . The Fund will provide such information and documentation as PFPC may reasonably request in connection with services provided by PFPC to the Fund. |
4. | Compliance with Rules and Regulations . |
PFPC undertakes to comply with all applicable requirements of the Securities Laws, and
2
any laws, rules and regulations of governmental authorities having jurisdiction with respect to the duties to be performed by PFPC hereunder. Except as specifically set forth herein, PFPC assumes no responsibility for such compliance by the Fund or other entity.
5. | Instructions . |
(a) | Unless otherwise provided in this Agreement, PFPC shall act only upon Oral Instructions or Written Instructions. |
(b) | PFPC shall be entitled to rely upon any Oral Instruction or Written Instruction it receives from an Authorized Person (or from a person reasonably believed by PFPC to be an Authorized Person) pursuant to this Agreement. PFPC may assume that any Oral Instruction or Written Instruction received hereunder is not in any way inconsistent with the provisions of organizational documents or this Agreement or of any vote, resolution or proceeding of the Funds Board of Directors or of the Funds shareholders, unless and until PFPC receives Written Instructions to the contrary. |
(c) | The Fund agrees to forward to PFPC Written Instructions confirming Oral Instructions (except where such Oral Instructions are given by PFPC or its affiliates) so that PFPC receives the Written Instructions by the close of business on the same day that such Oral Instructions are received. The fact that such confirming Written Instructions are not received by PFPC or differ from the Oral Instructions shall in no way invalidate the transactions or enforceability of the transactions authorized by the Oral Instructions or PFPCs ability to rely upon such Oral Instructions. |
3
6. | Right to Receive Advice . |
(a) | Advice of the Fund . If PFPC is in doubt as to any action it should or should not take, PFPC may request directions or advice, including Oral Instructions or Written Instructions, from the Fund. |
(b) | Advice of Counsel . If PFPC shall be in doubt as to any question of law pertaining to any action it should or should not take, PFPC may request advice from counsel of its own choosing (who may be counsel for the Fund, the Funds investment adviser or PFPC, at the option of PFPC). |
(c) | Conflicting Advice . In the event of a conflict between directions or advice or Oral Instructions or Written Instructions PFPC receives from the Fund and the advice PFPC receives from counsel, PFPC may rely upon and follow the advice of counsel. |
(d) | Protection of PFPC . PFPC shall be indemnified by the Fund and without liability for any action PFPC takes or does not take in reliance upon directions or advice or Oral Instructions or Written Instructions PFPC receives from or on behalf of the Fund or from counsel and which PFPC believes, in good faith, to be consistent with those directions or advice and Oral Instructions or Written Instructions. Nothing in this section shall be construed so as to impose an obligation upon PFPC (i) to seek such directions or advice or Oral Instructions or Written Instructions, or (ii) to act in accordance with such directions or advice or Oral Instructions or Written Instructions. |
7. | Records; Visits . |
(a) |
The books and records pertaining to the Fund and the Portfolios which are in the |
4
possession or under the control of PFPC shall be the property of the Fund. Such books and records shall be prepared and maintained as required by the 1940 Act and other applicable securities laws, rules and regulations. The Fund and Authorized Persons shall have access to such books and records at all times during PFPCs normal business hours. Upon the reasonable request of the Fund, copies of any such books and records shall be provided by PFPC to the Fund or to an Authorized Person, at the Funds expense. |
(b) PFPC shall keep the following records:
(i) | all books and records with respect to the Portfolios books of account; |
(ii) | records of the Portfolios securities transactions; and |
(iii) | all other books and records as PFPC is required to maintain pursuant to Rule 31a-l of the 1940 Act in connection with the services provided hereunder. |
8. |
Confidentiality . Each party shall keep confidential any information relating to the other partys business (Confidential Information). Confidential Information shall include (a) any data or information that is competitively sensitive material, and not generally known to the public, including, but not limited to, information about product plans, marketing strategies, finances, operations, customer relationships, customer profiles, customer lists, sales estimates, business plans, and internal performance results relating to the past, present or future business activities of the Fund or PFPC, their respective subsidiaries and affiliated companies and the customers, clients and suppliers of any of them; (b) any scientific or technical information, design, process, procedure, formula, or improvement that is commercially valuable and secret in the sense that its confidentiality affords the Fund or PFPC a competitive advantage over its competitors; (c) all confidential or |
5
proprietary concepts, documentation, reports, data, specifications, computer software, source code, object code, flow charts, databases, inventions, know-how, and trade secrets, whether or not patentable or copyrightable; and (d) anything designated as confidential. Notwithstanding the foregoing, information shall not be subject to such confidentiality obligations if it: (a) is already known to the receiving party at the time it is obtained; (b) is or becomes publicly known or available through no wrongful act of the receiving party; (c) is rightfully received from a third party who, to the best of the receiving partys knowledge, is not under a duty of confidentiality; (d) is released by the protected party to a third party without restriction; (e) is requested or required to be disclosed by the receiving party pursuant to a court order, subpoena, governmental or regulatory agency or law (provided the receiving party will provide the other party written notice of same, to the extent such notice is permitted); (f) is relevant to the defense of any claim or cause of action asserted against the receiving party; (g) is Fund information provided by PFPC in connection with an independent third party compliance or other review; (h) is necessary or desirable for PFPC to release such information in connection with the provision of services under this Agreement; or (i) has been or is independently developed or obtained by the receiving party. |
9. | Liaison with Accountants . PFPC shall act as liaison with the Funds independent public accountants and shall provide account analyses, fiscal year summaries, and other audit-related schedules with respect to the Portfolio. PFPC shall take all reasonable action in the performance of its duties under this Agreement to assure that the necessary information is made available to such accountants for the expression of their opinion, as required by the Fund. |
6
10. | PFPC System . PFPC shall retain title to and ownership of any and all data bases, computer programs, screen formats, report formats, interactive design techniques, derivative works, inventions, discoveries, patentable or copyrightable matters, concepts, expertise, patents, copyrights, trade secrets, and other related legal rights utilized by PFPC in connection with the services provided by PFPC to the Fund. |
11. | Disaster Recovery . PFPC shall enter into and shall maintain in effect with appropriate parties one or more agreements making reasonable provisions for emergency use of electronic data processing equipment to the extent appropriate equipment is available. In the event of equipment failures, PFPC shall, at no additional expense to the Fund, take reasonable steps to minimize service interruptions. PFPC shall have no liability with respect to the loss of data or service interruptions caused by equipment failure, provided such loss or interruption is not caused by PFPCs own willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its duties or obligations under this Agreement. |
12. | Compensation . |
(a) | As compensation for services rendered by PFPC during the term of this Agreement, the Fund, on behalf of the Portfolio, will pay to PFPC a fee or fees as may be agreed to in writing by the Fund and PFPC. |
(b) | The Fund hereby represents and warrants that this Agreement shall be provided to its Board of Directors and that, if required by applicable law, such Board of Directors has approved or will approve the terms of this Agreement. |
13. |
Indemnification . The Fund, on behalf of the Portfolio, agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless PFPC and its affiliates, including their respective officers, directors, agents and employees from all taxes, charges, expenses, assessments, claims and liabilities |
7
(including, without limitation, attorneys fees and disbursements and liabilities arising under the Securities Laws and any state and foreign securities and blue sky laws) arising directly or indirectly from any action or omission to act which PFPC takes in connection with the provision of services to the Fund. Neither PFPC, nor any of its affiliates, shall be indemnified against any liability (or any expenses incident to such liability) caused by PFPCs or its affiliates own willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard in the performance of PFPCs activities under this Agreement. Any amounts payable by the Fund hereunder shall be satisfied only against the relevant Portfolios assets and not against the assets of any other investment portfolio of the Fund. The provisions of this Section 13 shall survive termination of this Agreement. |
14. | Responsibility of PFPC . |
(a) | PFPC shall be under no duty to take any action hereunder on behalf of the Fund or any Portfolio except as specifically set forth herein or as may be specifically agreed to by PFPC and the Fund in a written amendment hereto. PFPC shall be obligated to exercise care and diligence in the performance of its duties hereunder and to act in good faith in performing services provided for under this Agreement. PFPC shall be liable only for any damages arising out of PFPCs failure to perform its duties under this Agreement to the extent such damages arise out of PFPCs willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of such duties. |
(b) |
Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, (i) PFPC shall not be liable for losses, delays, failure, errors, interruption or loss of data occurring directly or indirectly by reason of circumstances beyond its reasonable control, |
8
including without limitation acts of God; action or inaction of civil or military authority; public enemy; war; terrorism; riot; fire; flood; sabotage; epidemics; labor disputes; civil commotion; interruption, loss or malfunction of utilities, transportation, computer or communications capabilities; insurrection; elements of nature; or non-performance by a third party; and (ii) PFPC shall not be under any duty or obligation to inquire into and shall not be liable for the validity or invalidity, authority or lack thereof, or truthfulness or accuracy or lack thereof, of any instruction, direction, notice, instrument or other information which PFPC reasonably believes to be genuine. |
(c) | Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, (i) neither PFPC nor its affiliates shall be liable for any consequential, special or indirect losses or damages, whether or not the likelihood of such losses or damages was known by PFPC or its affiliates and (ii) PFPCs cumulative liability to the Fund for all losses, claims, suits, controversies, breaches or damages for any cause whatsoever (including but not limited to those arising out of or related to this Agreement) and regardless of the form of action or legal theory shall not exceed the lesser of $100,000 or the fees received by PFPC for services provided hereunder during the 12 months immediately prior to the date of such loss or damage. |
(d) | No party may assert a cause of action against PFPC or any of its affiliates that allegedly occurred more than 12 months immediately prior to the filing of the suit (or, if applicable, commencement of arbitration proceedings) alleging such cause of action. |
(e) | Each party shall have a duty to mitigate damages for which the other party may become responsible. |
9
(f) | The provisions of this Section 14 shall survive termination of this Agreement. |
15. | Description of Accounting Services on a Continuous Basis . |
PFPC will perform the following accounting services with respect to the Portfolio:
(i) | Journalize investment, capital share and income and expense activities; |
(ii) | Verify investment buy/sell trade tickets when received from the investment adviser for the Portfolio (the Adviser) and transmit trades to the Funds custodian (the Custodian) for proper settlement; |
(iii) | Maintain individual ledgers for investment securities; |
(iv) | Maintain historical tax lots for each security; |
(v) | Reconcile cash and investment balances of the Fund with the Custodian, and provide the Adviser with the beginning cash balance available for investment purposes; |
(vi) | Update the cash availability throughout the day as required by the Adviser; |
(vii) | Post to and prepare the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and the Statement of Operations; |
(viii) | Calculate various contractual expenses ( e.g., advisory and custody fees); |
(ix) | Monitor the expense accruals and notify an officer of the Fund of any proposed adjustments; |
(x) | Control all disbursements and authorize such disbursements upon Written Instructions; |
(xi) | Calculate capital gains and losses; |
(xii) | Determine net income; |
(xiii) | Obtain security market quotes from independent pricing services approved by the Adviser, or if such quotes are unavailable, then obtain such prices from the Adviser, and in either case calculate the market value of the Portfolios Investments; |
(xiv) | Transmit or mail a copy of the daily portfolio valuation to the Adviser; |
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(xv) | Compute net asset value; |
(xvi) | As appropriate, compute yields, total return, expense ratios, portfolio turnover rate, and, if required, portfolio average dollar-weighted maturity; and |
(xvii) | Prepare a monthly financial statement which includes the following items: |
Schedule of Investments
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
Statement of Operations
Cash Statement
Schedule of Capital Gains and Losses.
16. | Description of Administration Services on a Continuous Basis . |
PFPC will perform the following administration services with respect to the Portfolio:
(i) | Prepare quarterly broker security transactions summaries; |
(ii) | Prepare monthly security transaction listings; |
(iii) | Supply various normal and customary Portfolio and Fund statistical data as requested on an ongoing basis; |
(iv) | Prepare for execution and file the Funds Federal and state tax returns; |
(v) | Prepare and file the Funds Semi-Annual Reports with the SEC on Form N-SAR; |
(vi) | Prepare and file with the SEC the Funds annual, semi-annual, and quarterly shareholder reports; |
(vii) | Assist in the preparation of registration statements and other filings relating to the registration of Shares; |
(viii) | Monitor the Portfolios status as a regulated investment company under Sub-chapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; |
(ix) | Coordinate contractual relationships and communications between the Fund and its contractual service providers; and |
(x) | Monitor the Funds compliance with the amounts and conditions of each state qualification. |
17. |
Duration and Termination . This Agreement shall continue until terminated by the |
11
Fund or by PFPC on sixty (60) days prior written notice to the other party. In the event the Fund gives notice of termination, all expenses associated with movement (or duplication) of records and materials and conversion thereof to a successor accounting and administration services agent(s) (and any other service provider(s)), and all trailing expenses incurred by PFPC, will be borne by the Fund. |
18. | Change of Control . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, in the event of an agreement to enter into a transaction that would result in a Change of Control of the Funds adviser or sponsor, the Funds ability to terminate the Agreement pursuant to Section 17 will be suspended from the time of such agreement until two years after the Change of Control. |
19. | Notices . Notices shall be addressed (a) if to PFPC, at 301 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware 19809, Attention: President; (b) if to the Fund, at 103 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware 19809, Attention: Edward J. Roach or (c) if to neither of the foregoing, at such other address as shall have been given by like notice to the sender of any such notice or other communication by the other party. If notice is sent by confirming telegram, cable, telex or facsimile sending device, it shall be deemed to have been given immediately. If notice is sent by first-class mail, it shall be deemed to have been given three days after it has been mailed. If notice is sent by messenger, it shall be deemed to have been given on the day it is delivered. |
20. | Amendments . This Agreement, or any term thereof, may be changed or waived only by written amendment, signed by the party against whom enforcement of such change or waiver is sought. |
21. | Assignment . PFPC may assign its rights hereunder to any majority-owned direct or indirect subsidiary of PFPC or of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., provided that PFPC gives the Fund 30 days prior written notice of such assignment. |
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22. | Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed 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. |
23. | Further Actions . Each party agrees to perform such further acts and execute such further documents as are necessary to effectuate the purposes hereof. |
24. | Miscellaneous . |
(a) | Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, the Fund agrees not to make any modifications to its registration statement or adopt any policies which would affect materially the obligations or responsibilities of PFPC hereunder without the prior written approval of PFPC, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. |
(b) | Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, PFPC hereby disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, made to the Fund or any other person, including, without limitation, any warranties regarding quality, suitability, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or otherwise (irrespective of any course of dealing, custom or usage of trade), of any services or any goods provided incidental to services provided under this Agreement. PFPC disclaims any warranty of title or non-infringement except as otherwise set forth in this Agreement. |
(c) |
This Agreement embodies the entire agreement and understanding between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings relating to the |
13
subject matter hereof, provided that the parties may embody in one or more separate documents their agreement, if any, with respect to delegated duties. The captions in this Agreement are included for convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect. Notwithstanding any provision hereof, the services of PFPC are not, nor shall they be, construed as constituting legal advice or the provision of legal services for or on behalf of the Fund or any other person. |
(d) | This Agreement shall be deemed to be a contract made in Delaware and governed by Delaware law, without regard to principles of conflicts of law. |
(e) | If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns. |
(f) | The facsimile signature of any party to this Agreement shall constitute the valid and binding execution hereof by such party. |
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed as of the day and year first above written.
PFPC INC. | ||
By: |
|
|
Title: |
SVP | |
THE RBB FUND, INC. | ||
By: |
|
|
Title: |
President |
15
Exhibit 99.(h)(81)
TRANSFER AGENCY AGREEMENT SUPPLEMENT
(Bear Steams Enhanced Income Fund of The RBB Fund, Inc.)
This supplemental agreement is entered into this 28th day of February 28, 2007 by and between THE RBB FUND, INC. (the Fund) and PFPC INC., a Massachusetts corporation (PFPC).
The Fund is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Maryland and is an open-end management investment company. The Fund and PFPC have entered into a Transfer Agency Agreement, dated as of November 5, 1991 (as from time to time amended and supplemented, the Transfer Agency Agreement), pursuant to which PFPC has undertaken to act as transfer agent, registrar and dividend disbursing agent for the Fund with respect to the portfolios of the Fund, as more fully set forth therein. Certain capitalized terms used without definition in this Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement have the meaning specified in the Transfer Agency Agreement.
The Fund agrees with the Transfer Agent as follows:
1. | Adoption of Transfer Agency Agreement . The Transfer Agency Agreement is hereby adopted for Bear Steams Enhanced Income Fund (the Portfolio). |
2. | Compensation . As compensation for the services rendered by PFPC during the term of the Transfer Agency Agreement, the Fund will pay to the Transfer Agent, with respect to the Portfolio, monthly fees that shall be agreed to from time to time by the Fund and PFPC, for each account open at any time during the month for which payment is being made, plus certain of PFPCs expenses relating to such services. |
3. | Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed 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 undersigned have entered into this Agreement, intending to be legally bound hereby, as of the date and year first above written.
THE RBB FUND, INC. | PFPC INC. | |||||||
By: |
|
By: |
|
|||||
Name: |
EDWARD J. ROACH | Name: | Michael DeNofrio | |||||
Title: |
PRESIDENT & TREASURER | Title: | Executive Vice President, Senior Managing Director |
Exhibit 99.(h)(82)
AMENDED AND RESTATED SCHEDULE A
THIS SCHEDULE A, amended and restated as of February 28, 2007, is the Schedule A to that certain Regulatory Administration Services Agreement dated as of June 1, 2003 between PFPC Inc. and The RBB Fund, Inc.
List of Portfolios
Money Market Portfolio
Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund
Robeco Boston Partners Large Cap Value Fund
Robeco Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund
Robeco Boston Partners All-Cap Fund
Robeco Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II (formerly the Micro Cap Value Fund)
Robeco Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund (formerly the Market Neutral Fund)
Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund
Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund
Robeco WPG Tudor Fund
n/i Growth Fund
n/i Mid Cap Fund (formerly the n/i Growth & Value Fund)
n/i Emerging Growth Fund (formerly the n/i Micro Cap Fund)
n/i Small Cap Value Fund
Schneider Small Cap Value Fund
Schneider Value Fund
Institutional Liquidity Fund for Credit Unions
Liquidity Fund for Credit Union Members
Senbanc Fund
Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Mortgage Portfolio
Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund
PFPC INC. | ||
By: |
|
|
Name: |
||
Title: |
SVP | |
THE RBB FUND, INC. | ||
By: |
|
|
Name: |
EDWARD J. ROACH | |
Title: |
PRESIDENT & TREASURER |
Exhibit 99.(h)(86)
FORM OF
ADMINISTRATION AND ACCOUNTING SERVICES AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made as of , 200 by and between PFPC Inc., a Massachusetts corporation (PFPC) and The RBB Company, Inc. a Maryland corporation (the Company).
W I T N E S S E T H :
WHEREAS, the Company is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act); and
WHEREAS, the Company wishes to retain PFPC to provide administration and accounting services to the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and Free Market Fixed Income Fund (the Funds), and PFPC wishes to furnish such services.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual covenants herein contained, and intending to be legally bound hereby the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. | Definitions. As Used in this Agreement: |
(a) | 1933 Act means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. |
(b) | 1934 Act means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. |
(c) | Authorized Person means any officer of the Company and any other person duly authorized by the Companys Board of Directors to give Oral Instructions and Written Instructions on behalf of the Company. An Authorized Persons scope of authority may be limited by setting forth such limitation in a written document signed by both parties hereto. |
(d) | CEA means the Commodities Exchange Act, as amended. |
(e) |
Change of Control means a change in ownership or control (not including |
transactions between wholly-owned direct or indirect subsidiaries of a common parent) of 25% or more of the beneficial ownership of the shares of common stock or shares of beneficial interest of an entity or its parent(s). |
(f) | Oral Instructions mean oral instructions received by PFPC from an Authorized Person or from a person reasonably believed by PFPC to be an Authorized Person. PFPC may, in its sole discretion in each separate instance, consider and rely upon instructions it receives from an Authorized Person via electronic mail as Oral Instructions. |
(g) | SEC means the Securities and Exchange Commission. |
(h) | Securities Laws means the 1933 Act, the 1934 Act, the 1940 Act and the CEA. |
(i) | Shares means the shares of beneficial interest of any series or class of the Company. |
(j) | Written Instructions mean (i) written instructions signed by an Authorized Person and received by PFPC or (ii) trade instructions transmitted (and received by PFPC) by means of an electronic transaction reporting system access to which requires use of a password or other authorized identifier. The instructions may be delivered by hand, mail, tested telegram, cable, telex or facsimile sending device. |
2. | Appointment . The Company hereby appoints PFPC to provide administration and accounting services to the Funds, in accordance with the terms set forth in this Agreement. PFPC accepts such appointment and agrees to furnish such services. |
3. | Information . The Company will provide such information and documentation as PFPC may reasonably request in connection with services provided by PFPC to the Company. |
2
4. | Compliance with Rules and Regulations . |
PFPC undertakes to comply with all applicable requirements of the Securities Laws, and any laws, rules and regulations of governmental authorities having jurisdiction with respect to the duties to be performed by PFPC hereunder. Except as specifically set forth herein, PFPC assumes no responsibility for such compliance by the Company or other entity.
5. | Instructions . |
(a) | Unless otherwise provided in this Agreement, PFPC shall act only upon Oral Instructions or Written Instructions. |
(b) | PFPC shall be entitled to rely upon any Oral Instruction or Written Instruction it receives from an Authorized Person (or from a person reasonably believed by PFPC to be an Authorized Person) pursuant to this Agreement. PFPC may assume that any Oral Instruction or Written Instruction received hereunder is not in any way inconsistent with the provisions of organizational documents or this Agreement or of any vote, resolution or proceeding of the Companys Board of Directors or of the Companys shareholders, unless and until PFPC receives Written Instructions to the contrary. |
(c) | The Company agrees to forward to PFPC Written Instructions confirming Oral Instructions (except where such Oral Instructions are given by PFPC or its affiliates) so that PFPC receives the Written Instructions by the close of business on the same day that such Oral Instructions are received. The fact that such confirming Written Instructions are not received by PFPC or differ from the Oral Instructions shall in no way invalidate the transactions or enforceability of the transactions authorized by the Oral Instructions or PFPCs ability to rely upon such Oral Instructions. |
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6. | Right to Receive Advice . |
(a) | Advice of the Company . If PFPC is in doubt as to any action it should or should not take, PFPC may request directions or advice, including Oral Instructions or Written Instructions, from the Company. |
(b) | Advice of Counsel . If PFPC shall be in doubt as to any question of law pertaining to any action it should or should not take, PFPC may request advice from counsel of its own choosing (who may be counsel for the Company, the Companys investment adviser or PFPC, at the option of PFPC). |
(c) | Conflicting Advice . In the event of a conflict between directions or advice or Oral Instructions or Written Instructions PFPC receives from the Company and the advice PFPC receives from counsel, PFPC may rely upon and follow the advice of counsel. |
(d) | Protection of PFPC . PFPC shall be indemnified by the Company and without liability for any action PFPC takes or does not take in reliance upon directions or advice or Oral Instructions or Written Instructions PFPC receives from or on behalf of the Company or from counsel and which PFPC believes, in good faith, to be consistent with those directions or advice and Oral Instructions or Written Instructions. Nothing in this section shall be construed so as to impose an obligation upon PFPC (i) to seek such directions or advice or Oral Instructions or Written Instructions, or (ii) to act in accordance with such directions or advice or Oral Instructions or Written Instructions. |
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7. | Records; Visits . |
(a) | The books and records pertaining to the Company and the Funds which are in the possession or under the control of PFPC shall be the property of the Company. Such books and records shall be prepared and maintained as required by the 1940 Act and other applicable securities laws, rules and regulations. The Company and Authorized Persons shall have access to such books and records at all times during PFPCs normal business hours. Upon the reasonable request of the Company, copies of any such books and records shall be provided by PFPC to the Company or to an Authorized Person, at the Companys expense. |
(b) | PFPC shall keep the following records: |
(i) | all books and records with respect to the Fundss books of account; |
(ii) | records of the Fundss securities transactions; and |
(iii) | all other books and records as PFPC is required to maintain pursuant to Rule 31a-1 of the 1940 Act in connection with the services provided hereunder. |
8. |
Confidentiality . Each party shall keep confidential any information relating to the other partys business (Confidential Information). Confidential Information shall include (a) any data or information that is competitively sensitive material, and not generally known to the public, including, but not limited to, information about product plans, marketing strategies, finances, operations, customer relationships, customer profiles, customer lists, sales estimates, business plans, and internal performance results relating to the past, present or future business activities of the Company or PFPC, their respective subsidiaries and affiliated companies and the customers, clients and suppliers of any of them; (b) any scientific or technical information, design, process, procedure, formula, or |
5
improvement that is commercially valuable and secret in the sense that its confidentiality affords the Company or PFPC a competitive advantage over its competitors; (c) all confidential or proprietary concepts, documentation, reports, data, specifications, computer software, source code, object code, flow charts, databases, inventions, know-how, and trade secrets, whether or not patentable or copyrightable; and (d) anything designated as confidential. Notwithstanding the foregoing, information shall not be subject to such confidentiality obligations if it: (a) is already known to the receiving party at the time it is obtained; (b) is or becomes publicly known or available through no wrongful act of the receiving party; (c) is rightfully received from a third party who, to the best of the receiving partys knowledge, is not under a duty of confidentiality; (d) is released by the protected party to a third party without restriction; (e) is required to be disclosed by the receiving party pursuant to a requirement of a court order, subpoena, governmental or regulatory agency or law (provided the receiving party will provide the other party written notice of such requirement, to the extent such notice is permitted); (f) is relevant to the defense of any claim or cause of action asserted against the receiving party; or (g) has been or is independently developed or obtained by the receiving party. |
9. | Liaison with Accountants . PFPC shall act as liaison with the Companys independent public accountants and shall provide account analyses, fiscal year summaries, and other audit-related schedules with respect to the Funds. PFPC shall take all reasonable action in the performance of its duties under this Agreement to assure that the necessary information is made available to such accountants for the expression of their opinion, as required by the Company. |
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10. | PFPC System . PFPC shall retain title to and ownership of any and all data bases, computer programs, screen formats, report formats, interactive design techniques, derivative works, inventions, discoveries, patentable or copyrightable matters, concepts, expertise, patents, copyrights, trade secrets, and other related legal rights utilized by PFPC in connection with the services provided by PFPC to the Company. |
11. | Disaster Recovery . PFPC shall enter into and shall maintain in effect with appropriate parties one or more agreements making reasonable provisions for emergency use of electronic data processing equipment to the extent appropriate equipment is available. In the event of equipment failures, PFPC shall, at no additional expense to the Company, take reasonable steps to minimize service interruptions. PFPC shall have no liability with respect to the loss of data or service interruptions caused by equipment failure, provided such loss or interruption is not caused by PFPCs own willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its duties or obligations under this Agreement. |
12. | Compensation . As compensation for services rendered by PFPC during the term of this Agreement, the Company, on behalf of the Funds, will pay to PFPC a fee or fees as may be agreed to in writing by the Company and PFPC. |
13. |
Indemnification . The Company, on behalf of the Funds, agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless PFPC and its affiliates, including their respective officers, directors, agents and employees from all taxes, charges, expenses, assessments, claims and liabilities (including, without limitation, attorneys fees and disbursements and liabilities arising under the Securities Laws and any state and foreign securities and blue sky laws) arising directly or indirectly from any action or omission to act which PFPC takes in connection with the provision of services to the Company. Neither PFPC, nor any of its affiliates, |
7
shall be indemnified against any liability (or any expenses incident to such liability) caused by PFPCs or its affiliates own willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard in the performance of PFPCs activities under this Agreement. Any amounts payable by the Company hereunder shall be satisfied only against the relevant Fundss assets and not against the assets of any other investment portfolio of the Company. The provisions of this Section 13 shall survive termination of this Agreement. |
14. | Responsibility of PFPC . |
(a) | PFPC shall be under no duty to take any action hereunder on behalf of the Company or any Funds except as specifically set forth herein or as may be specifically agreed to by PFPC and the Company in a written amendment hereto. PFPC shall be obligated to exercise care and diligence in the performance of its duties hereunder and to act in good faith in performing services provided for under this Agreement. PFPC shall be liable only for any damages arising out of PFPCs failure to perform its duties under this Agreement to the extent such damages arise out of PFPCs willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of such duties. |
(b) |
Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, (i) PFPC shall not be liable for losses, delays, failure, errors, interruption or loss of data occurring directly or indirectly by reason of circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including without limitation acts of God; action or inaction of civil or military authority; public enemy; war; terrorism; riot; fire; flood; sabotage; epidemics; labor disputes; civil commotion; interruption, loss or malfunction of utilities, transportation, computer or communications capabilities; insurrection; elements |
8
of nature; or non-performance by a third party; and (ii) PFPC shall not be under any duty or obligation to inquire into and shall not be liable for the validity or invalidity, authority or lack thereof, or truthfulness or accuracy or lack thereof, of any instruction, direction, notice, instrument or other information which PFPC reasonably believes to be genuine. |
(c) | Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, (i) neither PFPC nor its affiliates shall be liable for any consequential, special or indirect losses or damages, whether or not the likelihood of such losses or damages was known by PFPC or its affiliates and (ii) PFPCs cumulative liability to the Company for all losses, claims, suits, controversies, breaches or damages for any cause whatsoever (including but not limited to those arising out of or related to this Agreement) and regardless of the form of action or legal theory shall not exceed the lesser of $100,000 or the fees received by PFPC for services provided hereunder during the 12 months immediately prior to the date of such loss or damage. |
(d) | No party may assert a cause of action against PFPC or any of its affiliates that allegedly occurred more than 12 months immediately prior to the filing of the suit (or, if applicable, commencement of arbitration proceedings) alleging such cause of action. |
(e) | Each party shall have a duty to mitigate damages for which the other party may become responsible. |
(f) | The provisions of this Section 14 shall survive termination of this Agreement. |
15. | Description of Accounting Services on a Continuous Basis . |
PFPC will perform the following accounting services with respect to the Funds:
(i) | Journalize investment, capital share and income and expense activities; |
9
(ii) | Verify investment buy/sell trade tickets when received from the investment adviser for the Funds (the Adviser) and transmit trades to the Companys custodian (the Custodian) for proper settlement; |
(iii) | Maintain individual ledgers for investment securities; |
(iv) | Maintain historical tax lots for each security; |
(v) | Reconcile cash and investment balances of the Company with the Custodian, and provide the Adviser with the beginning cash balance available for investment purposes; |
(vi) | Update the cash availability throughout the day as required by the Adviser; |
(vii) | Post to and prepare the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and the Statement of Operations; |
(viii) | Calculate various contractual expenses ( e.g. , advisory and custody fees); |
(ix) | Monitor the expense accruals and notify an officer of the Company of any proposed adjustments; |
(x) | Control all disbursements and authorize such disbursements upon Written Instructions; |
(xi) | Calculate capital gains and losses; |
(xii) | Determine net income; |
(xiii) | Obtain security market quotes from independent pricing services approved by the Adviser, or if such quotes are unavailable, then obtain such prices from the Adviser, and in either case calculate the market value of the Fundss Investments; |
(xiv) | Transmit or mail a copy of the daily portfolio valuation to the Adviser; |
(xv) | Compute net asset value; |
(xvi) | As appropriate, compute yields, total return, expense ratios, portfolio turnover rate, and, if required, portfolio average dollar-weighted maturity; and |
(xvii) | Prepare a monthly financial statement which includes the following items: |
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Schedule of Investments
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
Statement of Operations
Cash Statement
Schedule of Capital Gains and Losses.
16. | Description of Administration Services on a Continuous Basis . |
PFPC will perform the following administration services with respect to the Funds:
(i) | Prepare quarterly broker security transactions summaries; |
(ii) | Prepare monthly security transaction listings; |
(iii) | Supply various normal and customary Funds and Company statistical data as requested on an ongoing basis; |
(iv) | Prepare for execution and file the Companys Federal and state tax returns; |
(v) | Prepare and file the Companys Semi-Annual Reports with the SEC on Form N-SAR; |
(vi) | Prepare and file with the SEC the Companys annual, semi-annual, and quarterly shareholder reports; |
(vii) | Assist in the preparation of registration statements and other filings relating to the registration of Shares; |
(viii) | Monitor the Fundss status as a regulated investment company under Sub-chapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; |
(ix) | Coordinate contractual relationships and communications between the Company and its contractual service providers; and |
(x) | Monitor the Companys compliance with the amounts and conditions of each state qualification. |
17. | Duration and Termination . This Agreement shall continue until terminated by the Company or by PFPC on sixty (60) days prior written notice to the other party. In the event the Company gives notice of termination, all expenses associated with movement (or duplication) of records and materials and conversion thereof to a successor accounting and administration services agent(s) (and any other service provider(s)), and all trailing expenses incurred by PFPC, will be borne by the Company. |
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18. | Change of Control . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, in the event of an agreement to enter into a transaction that would result in a Change of Control of the Companys adviser or sponsor, the Companys ability to terminate the Agreement pursuant to Section 17 will be suspended from the time of such agreement until two years after the Change of Control. |
19. | Notices . Notices shall be addressed (a) if to PFPC, at 400 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware 19809, Attention: President; (b) if to the Company, at 400 Bellevue Parkway, Wilmington, Delaware 19809, Attention: Edward A. Roach or (c) if to neither of the foregoing, at such other address as shall have been given by like notice to the sender of any such notice or other communication by the other party. If notice is sent by confirming telegram, cable, telex or facsimile sending device, it shall be deemed to have been given immediately. If notice is sent by first-class mail, it shall be deemed to have been given three days after it has been mailed. If notice is sent by messenger, it shall be deemed to have been given on the day it is delivered. |
20. | Amendments . This Agreement, or any term thereof, may be changed or waived only by written amendment, signed by the party against whom enforcement of such change or waiver is sought. |
21. | Assignment . PFPC may assign its rights hereunder to any majority-owned direct or indirect subsidiary of PFPC or of The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., provided that PFPC gives the Company 30 days prior written notice of such assignment. |
22. | Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed 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. |
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23. | Further Actions . Each party agrees to perform such further acts and execute such further documents as are necessary to effectuate the purposes hereof. |
24. | Miscellaneous . |
(a) | Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, the Company agrees not to make any modifications to its registration statement or adopt any policies which would affect materially the obligations or responsibilities of PFPC hereunder without the prior written approval of PFPC, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. |
(b) | Except as expressly provided in this Agreement, PFPC hereby disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, made to the Company or any other person, including, without limitation, any warranties regarding quality, suitability, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose or otherwise (irrespective of any course of dealing, custom or usage of trade), of any services or any goods provided incidental to services provided under this Agreement. PFPC disclaims any warranty of title or non-infringement except as otherwise set forth in this Agreement. |
(c) |
This Agreement embodies the entire agreement and understanding between the parties and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings relating to the subject matter hereof, provided that the parties may embody in one or more separate documents their agreement, if any, with respect to delegated duties. The captions in this Agreement are included for convenience of reference only and in |
13
no way define or delimit any of the provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect. Notwithstanding any provision hereof, the services of PFPC are not, nor shall they be, construed as constituting legal advice or the provision of legal services for or on behalf of the Company or any other person. |
(d) | This Agreement shall be deemed to be a contract made in Delaware and governed by Delaware law, without regard to principles of conflicts of law. |
(e) | If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby. This Agreement shall be binding upon and shall inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and permitted assigns. |
(f) | The facsimile signature of any party to this Agreement shall constitute the valid and binding execution hereof by such party. |
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed as of the day and year first above written.
PFPC INC. | ||
By: |
||
Title: |
||
THE RBB FUND, INC. | ||
By: |
||
Title: |
15
Exhibit 99.(h)(87)
FORM OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES AGREEMENT SUPPLEMENT
The RBB Fund, Inc.
Free Market U.S. Equity Fund
Free Market International Equity Fund
Free Market Fixed Income Fund
This supplemental agreement is entered into this day of , 200 , by and between THE RBB FUND, INC. (the Company) and PFPC DISTRIBUTORS, INC. (PFPC Distributors).
The Company is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Maryland and is an open-end management investment company. The Company and PFPC Distributors have entered into a Administrative Services Agreement, dated as of May 29, 1998 (as from time to time amended and supplemented, the Administrative Services Agreement), pursuant to which PFPC Distributors has undertaken to provide certain administrative services to certain of the Companys portfolios and classes, as more fully set forth therein.
The Company agrees with PFPC Distributors as follows:
1. Adoption of Administrative Services Agreement . The Administrative Services Agreement is hereby adopted for the Classes of Common Stock of the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and Free Market Fixed Income Fund of the Company.
2. Payment of Fees . For all services to be rendered, facilities furnished and expenses paid or assumed by PFPC Distributors as provided in the Administrative Services Agreement and herein, the Company shall pay PFPC Distributors a monthly fee, as well as reimburse out-of-pocket expenses, on the first business day of each month, as provided in the Administrative Services Agreement.
3. Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed 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 undersigned have entered into this Agreement, intending to be legally bound hereby, as of the date and year first above written.
THE RBB FUND, INC. |
PFPC DISTRIBUTORS, INC. |
|||||||
By: |
|
By: |
|
|||||
Edward J. Roach | ||||||||
President |
Exhibit 99.(h)(88)
TRANSFER AGENCY AGREEMENT SUPPLEMENT
(Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and
Free Market Fixed Income Fund of The RBB Fund, Inc.)
This supplemental agreement is entered into this day of , 200 by and between THE RBB FUND, INC. (the Company) and PFPC INC., a Massachusetts corporation (PFPC).
The Company is a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Maryland and is an open-end management investment company. The Company and PFPC have entered into a Transfer Agency Agreement, dated as of November 5, 1991 (as from time to time amended and supplemented, the Transfer Agency Agreement), pursuant to which PFPC has undertaken to act as transfer agent, registrar and dividend disbursing agent for the Company with respect to the portfolios of the Company, as more fully set forth therein. Certain capitalized terms used without definition in this Transfer Agency Agreement Supplement have the meaning specified in the Transfer Agency Agreement.
The Company agrees with the Transfer Agent as follows:
Adoption of Transfer Agency Agreement . The Transfer Agency Agreement is hereby adopted for Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and
1. | Free Market Fixed Income Fund (the Funds). |
2. | Compensation . As compensation for the services rendered by PFPC during the term of the Transfer Agency Agreement, the Company will pay to the Transfer Agent, with respect to the Funds, monthly fees that shall be agreed to from time to time by the Company and PFPC, for each account open at any time during the month for which payment is being made, plus certain of PFPCs expenses relating to such services. |
3. | Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed 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 undersigned have entered into this Agreement, intending to be legally bound hereby, as of the date and year first above written.
THE RBB FUND, INC. | PFPC INC. | |||||
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Exhibit 99.(h)(89)
FORM OF AMENDED SCHEDULE A
THIS SCHEDULE A, amended and restated as of , 200 , is the Schedule A to that certain Regulatory Administration Services Agreement dated as of June 1, 2003 between PFPC Inc. and The RBB Fund, Inc.
List of Portfolios
Money Market Portfolio
Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund
Robeco Boston Partners Large Cap Value Fund
Robeco Boston Partners Mid Cap Value Fund
Robeco Boston Partners All-Cap Fund
Robeco Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II (formerly the Micro Cap Value Fund)
Robeco Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund (formerly the Market Neutral Fund)
Robeco WPG Core Bond Fund
Robeco WPG Large Cap Growth Fund
Robeco WPG Small Cap Value Fund
Schneider Small Cap Value Fund
Schneider Value Fund
Senbanc Fund
Bear Stearns CUFS MLP Portfolio
Bear Stearns Enhanced Income Fund
Marvin & Palmer Large Cap Growth Fund
Free Market U.S. Equity Fund
Free Market International Equity Fund
Free Market Fixed Income Fund
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THE RBB FUND, INC. | ||
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Exhibit (l)(24)
PURCHASE AGREEMENT
The RBB Fund, Inc. (the Company), a Maryland corporation, and Bear Stearns Asset Management Inc. (BSAM) intending to be legally bound, hereby agree with each other as follows:
1. The Company hereby offers BSAM and BSAM hereby purchases $1,000 worth of shares of Class AAAA Common Stock (par value $.001 per share) (such shares hereinafter sometimes collectively known as Shares) at price per Share equivalent to the net asset value per share of the Shares as determined on March 2, 2007.
2. The Company hereby acknowledges receipt from BSAM of funds in the amount of $1,000 in full payment for the Shares.
3. BSAM represents and warrants to the Company that the Shares are being acquired for investment purposes and not with a view to the distribution thereof.
4. This agreement may be executed in counterparts, and all such counterparts taken together shall be deemed to constitute one and the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the 2nd day of March, 2007.
THE RBB FUND, INC. | ||
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/s/ Edward J. Roach |
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Name: | Edward J. Roach | |
Title: | President & Treasurer | |
BEAR STEARNS ASSET MANAGEMENT INC. | ||
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/s/ Rajan Gouindan |
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Name: | Rajan Gouindan | |
Title: | Senior Managing Director | |
Chief Operating Officer |
Exhibit 99.(l)(26)
FORM OF PURCHASE AGREEMENT
The RBB Fund, Inc. (the Company), a Maryland corporation, and Abundance Technologies, Inc. (Abundance) intending to be legally bound, hereby agree with each other as follows:
1. The Company hereby offers Abundance and Abundance hereby purchases $ worth of shares of Class BBBB Common Stock (par value $.001 per share) (such shares hereinafter sometimes collectively known as Shares) at price per Share equivalent to the net asset value per share of the Shares as determined on , 200 .
2. The Company hereby acknowledges receipt from Abundance of funds in the amount of $ in full payment for the Shares.
3. Abundance represents and warrants to the Company that the Shares are being acquired for investment purposes and not with a view to the distribution thereof.
4. This agreement may be executed in counterparts, and all such counterparts taken together shall be deemed to constitute one and the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the th day of , 200 .
Exhibit 99.(l)(27)
FORM OF PURCHASE AGREEMENT
The RBB Fund, Inc. (the Company), a Maryland corporation, and Abundance Technologies, Inc. (Abundance) intending to be legally bound, hereby agree with each other as follows:
1. The Company hereby offers Abundance and Abundance hereby purchases $ worth of shares of Class CCCC Common Stock (par value $.001 per share) (such shares hereinafter sometimes collectively known as Shares) at price per Share equivalent to the net asset value per share of the Shares as determined on , 200 .
2. The Company hereby acknowledges receipt from Abundance of funds in the amount of $ in full payment for the Shares.
3. Abundance represents and warrants to the Company that the Shares are being acquired for investment purposes and not with a view to the distribution thereof.
4. This agreement may be executed in counterparts, and all such counterparts taken together shall be deemed to constitute one and the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the th day of , 200 .
Exhibit 99.(l)(28)
FORM OF PURCHASE AGREEMENT
The RBB Fund, Inc. (the Company), a Maryland corporation, and Abundance Technologies, Inc. (Abundance) intending to be legally bound, hereby agree with each other as follows:
1. The Company hereby offers Abundance and Abundance hereby purchases $ worth of shares of Class DDDD Common Stock (par value $.001 per share) (such shares hereinafter sometimes collectively known as Shares) at price per Share equivalent to the net asset value per share of the Shares as determined on , 200 .
2. The Company hereby acknowledges receipt from Abundance of funds in the amount of $ in full payment for the Shares.
3. Abundance represents and warrants to the Company that the Shares are being acquired for investment purposes and not with a view to the distribution thereof.
4. This agreement may be executed in counterparts, and all such counterparts taken together shall be deemed to constitute one and the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the th day of , 200 .
Exhibit 99.(p)(11)
ABUNDANCE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
CODE OF ETHICS
Effective Date: February 1, 2005
1.0 | Introduction |
This Code of Ethics (the Code) establishes rules of conduct for persons who are officers, directors, and employees of Abundance Technologies, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as Matrix because its investment advisory services are provided through the Matrix Asset Allocation division). The Code governs their personal investments and conduct.
This Code of Ethics is being adopted to effectuate the purposes and objectives of Sections 204A and 204A-1 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 as amended (the Advisers Act) and Rule 204-2 under the Advisers Act. Section 204A of the Advisers Act requires the establishment and enforcement of policies and procedures reasonably designed to prevent the misuse of material, non-public information by investment advisers, including Matrix. Rule 204A-1 requires an adviser to have a code of ethics that sets forth standards of conduct and requires compliance with federal securities laws by all of the advisers officers, directors and employees, requires pre-clearance of access persons personal securities transactions including transactions in any affiliated mutual funds, and requires reporting of access persons personal securities transactions. Rule 204-2 imposes record keeping requirements with respect to personal securities transactions of certain persons employed by investment advisers.
The purpose of this Code of Ethics is to (i) remind officers, directors and employees that Matrixs responsibility to its clients is to provide effective and proper professional investment management advice based upon unbiased independent judgment; (ii) set standards for employee conduct in those situations where conflicts of interest are most likely to arise; (iii) assure that officers, directors and employees understand their responsibilities under the federal securities laws; (iv) protect Matrix from reputational damage; and (iv) develop procedures that allow Matrix to monitor officers, directors and employees activity for compliance with Matrixs Code of Ethics.
It is the desire of Matrix that the Code of Ethics be conscientiously followed and effectively enforced. The prime responsibility for following it rests with each officer, director and employee. While Matrix will oversee compliance with the Code of Ethics, a conscientious and professional attitude on the part of each officer, director and employee will ensure that Matrix fulfills the highest ethical standards.
Violations of the Code may cause Matrix loss of business, legal liability, fines and other punishments. Violations of the Code may result in demotion, suspension, firing, fines and other punishments for individuals.
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2.0 | Applicability of Code |
The Code applies all of the firms officers, directors and employees (hereinafter referred to as Supervised Persons or Access Persons) unless the Compliance Officer specifies otherwise in writing.
3.0 | Personal Trading Policy |
3.1 | Definitions |
3.1.1 | Covered Security |
Any financial instrument treated as a security for investment purposes and any related instrument such as options, futures, warrants, convertible securities, forward or swap contracts entered into with respect to one or more securities, a basket of or an index of securities or components of securities. However, the term Covered Security does not include direct obligations issued by the Government of the United States, bankers acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper, or shares of registered open-end investment companies.
3.1.2 | Access Person Accounts |
The account of any employee, his/her spouse, minor children, immediately family members sharing the same household as the employee, trusts or estates of which the employee is a beneficiary.
3.2 | Initial Public Offerings and Private Placements |
Access Person Accounts are prohibited from participating in initial public offerings and private placements.
3.3. | Reports |
Every Access Person must submit a quarterly report containing the information set forth in Exhibit A with respect to transactions in any Covered Security in which such Access Person or any of his/her Access Person Accounts has acquired or by reason of such transactions will acquire any direct or indirect beneficial ownership; provided , however, that:
3.3.1 | An Access Person need not make a report with respect to any transaction effected for any account over which such person does not have any direct or indirect influence or control. |
3.3.2 | An Access Person must submit this report to the CCO no later than 30 calendar days after the end of the calendar quarter in which the transaction to which the report relates was effected. |
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3.3.3 | Any report submitted to comply with the requirements of this Section may contain a statement that the report shall not be construed as an admission by the person making such report that he has any direct or indirect benefit ownership in the security to which the report relates. |
3.3.4 | Within 10 days of initial association or employment with Matrix, each Access Person shall disclose all current personal securities holdings in any of his Access Person Accounts, a list of brokers holding such Access Person Accounts and the additional information required by Exhibit B. Such Access Person must also authorize any brokers that hold any of such Access Persons Accounts to submit duplicate statements and confirmations to Matrixs CCO. |
3.3.5 | Within 45 days of the end of each calendar year, each Access Person must disclose all current personal securities holdings in any account in which such Access Person has an interest, a list of brokers holding such Access Person Accounts and the additional information required by Exhibit B. |
3.3.6 | Within 10 days of association or employment with Matrix and within ten days of adoption of this Code of Ethics, each Access Person must certify that he has received, read and understands the Code and recognizes that he is subject to such Code. (Exhibit C) |
3.3.7 | Annually each Access Person must certify that he has read and understands the Code and recognizes that he is subject to such Code. In addition, annually each Access Person must certify that he has disclosed or reported all personal securities transactions required to be disclosed or reported under the Code. (Exhibit D) |
3.4 | Review of reports |
The CCO or his designee shall be responsible for reviewing all confirmations of transactions for all Access Person Accounts, Initial Holdings Reports, Annual Holdings Reports, Certification of Compliance forms, Personal Securities Transaction Quarterly Reports and any other documents deemed necessary to assure compliance with this Code of Ethics. Given that Matrix purchases and sells open-end mutual funds for clients and the only individual securities Matrix purchases or sells for clients accounts are sales of securities held in a clients existing account, the review by the CCO or his designee shall be limited as described below.
3.4.1 | Quarterly Reviews |
The CCO or his designee is responsible for review and monitoring personal securities transactions of Access Persons of the firm in accordance with the following procedures:
1. | The CCO is responsible for reviewing the list of Access Persons against the quarterly securities reports each quarter to assure reporting compliance by all Access Persons. |
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2. | The CCO shall prepare a written report each quarter to Matrixs President that describes any issues that arose during the previous quarter under this policy. |
3.4.2 | Annual Reviews |
1. | The CCO is responsible for reviewing a list of all Access Persons against Initial and Annual Securities Holdings Reports to assure compliance with the reporting requirements. |
2. | In addition the securities holdings reports should be compared to a sample of quarterly securities transaction reports and/or statements from financial institutions holding the accounts to assure the Access Person is reporting personal securities transactions as required. |
3.4.3 | Ongoing Reviews |
The CCO is responsible for the following additional procedures relating to personal securities transactions of Access Persons:
1. | Create and maintain a listing of all Access Persons; and |
2. | Promptly report any apparent violations of the Code to the CEO or President in writing. |
4.0 | Standard of Business Conduct |
Matrixs Supervised Persons are in a position of trust with respect to Matrixs clients. This position requires Matrixs Supervised Persons to act at all times with the utmost integrity. Matrixs Supervised Persons should perform their duties with complete propriety and should not take advantage of their position. These persons should use reasonable care and exercise independent professional judgment. In any act in which a Supervised Person engages, the Supervised Person should consider the reputation of the firm, whether his conduct is not only legal, but also ethical, whether he is acting in the best interests of Matrixs clients, and whether his act or omission to act is consistent with Matrixs ideals of integrity, openness, honesty and trust. The Supervised Person shall not engage in any professional conduct involving fraud, dishonesty, deceit or misrepresentation of a material fact.
Supervised Persons should keep in mind the following fundamental fiduciary principles that govern their activities:
1. | The interests of the clients must come first; |
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2. | Supervised Persons must not take inappropriate advantage of their positions; |
3. | Information concerning clients investments must be kept confidential; and |
4. | Supervised Persons shall deal fairly and objectively with all clients and prospects when disseminating investment recommendations, disseminating material changes in prior investment recommendations, and taking investment action. |
4.1 | Conflicts of Interest |
The Code is intended to (a) minimize conflicts of interest and even the appearance of conflicts of interest, between Matrixs Supervised Persons and Matrixs clients in the securities markets and (b) assure that personal securities transactions of Matrixs Supervised Persons are made in compliance with applicable securities laws.
Matrixs general policy is to avoid conflicts of interest wherever possible and, where they unavoidably occur, to resolve them in favor of clients.
4.2 | Compliance with applicable federal securities laws. |
Matrix Supervised Persons are not permitted in connection with the purchase or sale by such person of a security held or to be acquired by Matrix for a client:
1. | To employ any device, scheme or artifice to defraud any client or prospective clients; |
2. | To make any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state to a client or prospective client a material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances in which they are made, not misleading; |
3. | To engage in any transaction, practice or course of business which operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit upon any client or prospective client; or |
4. | To engage in any act, practice, or course of business which is fraudulent, deceptive or manipulative. |
In addition, Matrix Supervised Persons shall comply with the applicable provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Advisers Act, the Investment Company Act, and Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 2002 and the rules thereunder. In summary, these laws and rules:
| require registration of publicly traded securities, |
| place restrictions on the manner privately offered securities are offered and sold, |
| require registration of an investment company unless an exemption is available |
| mandate full disclosure of all material facts when offering or selling a security, advising a client or managing an investment company, |
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| prohibit fraud in connection with the offer and sale of securities, |
| prohibit fraud on the securities markets, |
| require registration of investment companies and investment advisers unless an exemption is available, |
| set forth requirements to protect the privacy of client personal information. |
4.3. | Delivery of Code of Ethics to Each Supervised Person |
Matrix shall deliver a copy of this Code of Ethics and each amendment or amended version to each Supervised Person.
5.0 | Safeguarding Data |
Supervised Persons must safeguard material, non-public information about Matrix client transactions and adhere to Matrixs Privacy Policy. This includes, but is not limited to adherence to physical and technical security of data.
5.1 | Supervised Persons may not share access codes or passwords with other Supervised Persons, contractors, or agency employees. |
5.2 | Supervised Persons must remove client account statements from general office access at the end of each day. |
5.3 | Supervised Persons are prohibited from electronically or otherwise transmitting client transactions to unauthorized entities. Authorized entities include, but are not limited to: |
1. | Brokers or Dealers with a business need. |
2. | Vendors with a contractual need and who have executed a non-disclosure agreement with Matrix. |
6.0 | Disclosure of Code of Ethics on Part II of Form ADV |
Matrix will summarize the key provisions of its Code of Ethics in response to Item 9E on Part II of its Form ADV no later than February 1, 2005. The disclosure will state that Matrix will provide a copy of its Code of Ethics to any client or prospective client upon request.
The CCO or his designee will make a record of all requests and the date and to whom the Code was delivered.
7.0. | Reports of Violations of Code of Ethics |
Any Supervised Person who becomes aware of any apparent violation of the Code of Ethics shall promptly report such apparent violation to the CCO or the President of Matrix who will notify the CCO.
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8.0 | Sanctions |
The sanctions for violation of the Code of Ethics may include any or all of the following: (1) a letter of censure, (2) a fine, (3) temporary or permanent suspension of trading for any Access Person Accounts, (4) temporary suspension of employment, (5) termination of employment, (6) disgorgement of any ill-gotten profits or avoidance of losses, (7) and/or any other sanction deemed appropriate by the Chief Compliance Officer and the President of Matrix.
9.0 | Compliance Oversight of Code of Ethics |
9.1 | The CCOs responsibilities which he may delegate to another person include the following: |
1. | Create and maintain a list of all Supervised Persons and Access Persons. |
2. | Monitor personal securities transactions and reporting in accordance with the procedures in Section 3; |
3. | Monitor compliance with the Standards of Business Conduct in accordance with the procedures in Section 4; |
4. | Require Supervised Persons to read this Code of Ethics and obtain required acknowledgments in accordance with the procedures in Section 3; |
5. | Monitor requests for a copy of the firms Code of Ethics and subsequent delivery in accordance with Section 6; |
6. | Monitor ADV disclosure regarding the firms Code of Ethics for accuracy; |
7. | Report all Code violations or apparent violations to Matrixs President in writing promptly upon discovery; |
8. | Review the Code for adequacy and effectiveness at least annually and report the results to Matrixs President; and |
9. | Maintain required books and records in accordance with the provisions of Section 10.0. |
9.2. | The President is responsible for the review and evaluation of the full details of any suspected violations of the Code of Ethics and imposition of sanctions when necessary. |
10.0 | Required Records |
The CCO or his designee will ensure that the following books and records are maintained in, as appropriate, electronic or hard copy form for at least five years, two years in an easily accessible place:
1. | A copy of each Code that has been in effect at any time during the past five years; |
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2. | A record of any violation of the Code and any action taken as a result of such violation for five years from the end of the fiscal year in which the violation occurred; |
3. | A record of all written acknowledgements of receipt of the Code and amendments for each person who is currently, or within the past five years was, a Supervised Person; (These records must be kept for five years after the individual ceases to be a Supervised Person of Matrix.) |
4. | Holdings and transactions reports made pursuant to the Code, including any brokerage confirmation and account statements made in lieu of these reports; and |
5. | A list of the names of persons who are currently, or within the past five years were Access Persons of Matrix. |
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EXHIBIT A
PERSONAL SECURITIES TRADING REPORTING FORM
ABUNDANCE TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
Quarter for which transactions are reported: to (the Quarter).
Capitalized terms have the meanings given to them in the Code of Ethics.
My Access Person Accounts have made transactions in the following securities, except securities issued by the United States Treasury or shares of an open-end mutual fund, during the Quarter:
Security And class (the Security) |
Date of
Transaction |
No. of
Shares |
Dollar
Amount of Transaction |
Nature of
Transaction (Purchase, sale) |
Price
Per Share |
Broker or
Through Whom Effected |
If your Access Person Accounts did not engage in any transactions in a Covered Security, please write None and sign and date the form.
Except as noted on the reverse side of this report, I hereby certify that I have no knowledge of the existence of any personal conflict of interest relationship which may involve Abundance Technologies, Inc.s (Matrix) clients, such as the existence of any economic relationship between my transactions and securities held or to be acquired by Matrixs clients.
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EXHIBIT B
INITIAL AND ANNUAL HOLDINGS REPORT
To the Board of Directors of Abundance Technologies, Inc. (Matrix):
1. | I have read and understand the Code of Ethics dated February 1, 2005 for Matrix (the Code) and recognize that I am subject thereto as an officer, director or employee of Matrix. I understand that capitalized terms used herein have the same meaning as in the Code. |
2. | I hereby certify that the following is a list of all securities, except securities issued by the United States Treasury or shares of an open-end mutual fund, any Access Person Account of mine own as of (Date): |
Name of Security |
Number of Shares or Size of Interest |
3. | I hereby certify that the following is a list of all the brokerage accounts of my Access Person Accounts: |
Name of Brokerage Firm |
Account Number |
Branch Name |
4. | Except as noted below, I hereby certify that I have no knowledge of the existence of any personal conflict of interest relationship which may involve Matrixs clients, such as any economic relationship between transactions in my Access Person Account(s) and securities held or to be acquired by Matrixs clients. |
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EXHIBIT C
INITIAL CERTIFICATION
To the Board of Directors of Abundance Technologies, Inc. (Matrix):
1. | I have read and understand the Code of Ethics dated February 1, 2005 for Matrix and recognize that I am subject thereto as an employee of Matrix. |
2. | I hereby certify that the following is a list of all securities, except securities issued by the United States Treasury or shares of an open-end mutual fund, my Access Person Accounts own as of , 20 : |
Name of Security |
Number of Shares or Size of Interest |
3. | I hereby certify that the following is a list of all the brokerage accounts that are in the name of any of my Access Person Accounts: |
Name of Brokerage Firm |
Account Number |
Branch Name |
4. | Except as noted below, I hereby certify that I have no knowledge of the existence of any personal conflict of interest relationship which may involve Matrixs clients, such as any economic relationship between my securities holdings and securities held or to be acquired by Matrixs clients. |
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EXHIBIT D
ANNUAL CERTIFICATION
To the Board of Directors of Abundance Technologies, Inc. (Matrix):
1. | I have read and understand the Code of Ethics dated February 1, 2005 for Matrix and recognize that I am subject thereto as an employee of Matrix. |
2. | I hereby certify that, during the year ended December 31, 20 . I have complied with the requirements of the Code and I have reported all securities transactions each calendar quarter. |
3. | I hereby certify that the following is a list of all securities, except securities issued by the United States Treasury or shares of an open-end mutual fund, my Access Person Accounts own as of , 20 : |
Name of Security |
Number of Shares or Size of Interest |
4. | I hereby certify that the following is a list of all the brokerage accounts that are in the name of any of my Access Person Accounts: |
Name of Brokerage Firm |
Account Number |
Branch Name |
5. | Except as noted below, I hereby certify that I have no knowledge of the existence of any personal conflict of interest relationship which may involve Matrixs clients, such as any economic relationship between my transactions and securities held or to be acquired by Matrixs clients. |
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