As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 6, 2015
Registration Numbers: 333-57791; 811-08837
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
| THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 | ||||
| Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 |
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940
| Amendment No. 31 |
THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
One Lincoln Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02111
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
Registrants Telephone Number: (303) 623-2577
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
Jesse D. Hallee, Esq.
State Street Bank and Trust Company
One Lincoln Street/CPH0326
Boston, Massachusetts 02111
Copy to:
Leonard Mackey, Esq.
Clifford Chance US LLP
31 West 52 nd Street,
New York, New York 10119
It is proposed that this filing will become effective:
| ¨ | immediately upon filing pursuant to Rule 485, paragraph (b) |
| x | on October 7, 2015 pursuant to Rule 485, paragraph (b) |
| ¨ | 60 days after filing pursuant to Rule 485, paragraph (a)(1) |
| ¨ | on pursuant to Rule 485, paragraph (a)(1) |
| ¨ | 75 days after filing pursuant to Rule 485, paragraph (a)(2) |
| ¨ | on pursuant to Rule 485, paragraph (a)(2) |
| ¨ | this post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment. |
|
Management
fees
|
0.04 % |
|
Distribution and service (12b-1)
fees
|
0.04 % |
|
Other
expenses
1
|
0.07 % |
|
Total annual Fund operating
expenses
|
0.15% |
|
Less contractual fee
waiver
2
|
-0.01 % |
|
Net annual Fund operating
expenses
|
0.14% |
| 1 | “Other expenses” are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year. |
| 2 | SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and reimburse certain expenses, until January 31, 2017, so that the annual Fund operating expenses of the Fund are limited to no more than 0.14% of the Fund's average daily net assets (exclusive of non-recurring account fees and extraordinary expenses). The Adviser may continue such waiver and/or reimbursement from year to year, but there is no guarantee that the Adviser will do so after January 31, 2017. The waiver and/or reimbursement may not be terminated prior to January 31, 2017 except with the approval of The Select Sector SPDR Trust's Board of Trustees. |
| Year 1 | Year 3 |
| $14 | $47 |
|
Management
fees
|
0.04 % |
|
Distribution and service (12b-1)
fees
|
0.04 % |
|
Other
expenses
1
|
0.07 % |
|
Total annual Fund operating
expenses
|
0.15% |
|
Less contractual fee
waiver
2
|
-0.01 % |
|
Net annual Fund operating
expenses
|
0.14% |
| 1 | “Other expenses” are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year. |
| 2 | SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and reimburse certain expenses, until January 31, 2017, so that the annual Fund operating expenses of the Fund are limited to no more than 0.14% of the Fund's average daily net assets (exclusive of non-recurring account fees and extraordinary expenses). The Adviser may continue such waiver and/or reimbursement from year to year, but there is no guarantee that the Adviser will do so after January 31, 2017. The waiver and/or reimbursement may not be terminated prior to January 31, 2017 except with the approval of The Select Sector SPDR Trust's Board of Trustees. |
| Year 1 | Year 3 |
| $14 | $47 |
THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST (THE TRUST)
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
DATED OCTOBER 7, 2015
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) is not a prospectus. It should be read in conjunction with the prospectus for the Trust dated October 7, 2015, as it may be revised from time to time (the Prospectus).
|
Fund |
Ticker | |
|
THE FINANCIAL SERVICES SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® FUND |
XLFS | |
|
THE REAL ESTATE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® FUND |
XLRE |
Principal U.S. Listing Exchange: NYSE Arca, Inc.
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR ® Fund and The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (each, a Fund and collectively, the Funds) are exchange-traded funds which are each a series of the Trust, and are discussed in this SAI. The Funds had not commenced operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore do not have financial information to report for the Trusts September 30, 2015 fiscal year end.
Capitalized terms used herein that are not defined have the same meaning as in the Prospectus, unless otherwise noted. A copy of the Prospectus may be obtained without charge by writing to the Trusts Distributor, ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., at 1290 Broadway, Suite 1100, Denver, Colorado 80203, by visiting the Funds website at www.sectorspdrs.com or calling 1-866-732-8673.
S&P ® , S&P 500 ® , Standard & Poors Depositary Receipts ® , SPDR ® , Select Sectors, Select Sector SPDR, Select Sector SPDRs and Select Sector Standard & Poors Depositary Receipts are trademarks of Standard & Poors Financial Services LLC, an affiliate of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC and McGraw Hill Financial, Inc., and have been licensed for use in connection with the listing and trading of Select Sector SPDRs on NYSE Arca, Inc. (the Exchange), a national securities exchange. The stocks included in each Select Sector Index (upon which the Select Sector SPDRs are based) are selected by S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC (S&P DJI and sometimes referred to as the Index Compilation Agent) from the universe of companies represented by the S&P 500 Index (S&P 500). The composition and weighting of the stocks included in each Select Sector Index can be expected to differ from the composition and weighting of stocks included in any similar S&P 500 sector index that is published and disseminated by S&P DJI because it is based on a proprietary methodology of BofA Merrill Lynch Research (BofA Merrill Lynch) (S&P DJI and BofA Merrill Lynch, collectively, sometimes referred to as the Index Provider).
SSSAI2
1
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Appendix A - SSGA Funds Management, Inc. Proxy Voting Policy |
A-1 |
The information contained herein regarding the Select Sector Indices, securities markets and The Depository Trust Company (DTC) was obtained from publicly available sources.
2
DISCLAIMERS
Each Select Sector Index is based on equity securities of public companies that are components of the S&P 500, selected and included in the particular Select Sector Indices on the basis of its GICS (Global Industry Classification System) classification, with certain exceptions by the Index Compilation Agent. S&P DJI also acts as Index Calculation Agent in connection with the calculation and dissemination of each Select Sector Index.
Select Sector SPDRs are not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by S&P DJI, BofA Merrill Lynch or any of their respective affiliates. S&P DJI, BofA Merrill Lynch and their respective affiliates make no representation or warranty, express or implied, to the owners of the Select Sector SPDRs or any member of the public regarding the advisability of investing in securities generally or in the Select Sector SPDRs particularly or the ability of a Select Sector SPDR Fund to track the performance of the various sectors represented in the stock market. The stocks included in each Select Sector Index were selected by the Index Compilation Agent from a universe of companies represented by the S&P 500. Select Sector Indices use a modified market capitalization weighting which limits the weight of each Component Stock in the index. As such, the weightings of each Select Sector index can be expected to differ from the weightings of stocks including in the corresponding S&P 500 sector index that is published and disseminated by S&P DJI, as the S&P 500 sector indices use a float adjusted market capitalization which does not limit the weight of any stocks in the index. S&P DJI and BofA Merrill Lynchs only relationship to the Select Sector SPDR Funds is the licensing of certain trademarks and trade names of S&P DJI, the S&P 500 and Select Sector Indices which are determined, composed and calculated by S&P DJI without regard to any Select Sector SPDR Fund. S&P DJI, BofA Merrill Lynch and their affiliates have no obligation to take the needs of the Trust or the owners of Select Sector SPDRs into consideration in determining, composing or calculating the S&P 500 or the Select Sector Indices. S&P DJI, BofA Merrill Lynch and their affiliates are not responsible for and have not participated in any determination or calculation made with respect to issuance or redemption of the Select Sector SPDRs. S&P DJI, BofA Merrill Lynch and their affiliates have no obligation or liability in connection with the administration, marketing or trading of the Select Sector SPDRs.
Although S&P DJI seeks to obtain and use information from sources which it considers reliable, S&P DJI, BofA Merrill Lynch and their affiliates do not guarantee the accuracy and/or completeness of the S&P 500, the Select Sector Indices or any data related thereto. S&P DJI, BofA Merrill Lynch and their affiliates make no warranty, express or implied, as to results to be obtained by the Trust, owners of the Select Sector SPDRs, or any other person or entity from the use of the S&P 500, the Select Sector Indices or any data related thereto in connection with the rights licensed under the license agreement or for any other use. S&P DJI, BofA Merrill Lynch and their affiliates make no express or implied warranties, and hereby expressly disclaim all warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to the S&P 500, the Select Sector Indices or any data related thereto. Without limiting any of the foregoing, in no event shall S&P DJI, BofA Merrill Lynch and their affiliates have any liability for any special, punitive, indirect or consequential damages (including lost profits), even if notified of the possibility of such damages.
The shares are not sponsored or promoted by S&P DJI, BofA Merrill Lynch or their respective affiliates.
3
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE TRUST
The Trust is an open-end management investment company registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), and the offering of each Funds shares (Shares) is registered with the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act). The Trust currently consists of 11 series (each, a Fund or Select Sector SPDR Fund and collectively, the Select Sector SPDR Funds) as described below.
The Trust was organized as a Massachusetts business trust on June 10, 1998. The Trust is governed by a Board of Trustees (the Board). The shares of each Fund are referred to herein as Shares. The Select Sector SPDR Funds offered by the Trust are: The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund; The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund; The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund; The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund; The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund; The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund; The Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund; The Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund; The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund; The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund; and The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund. The investment objective of each Select Sector SPDR Fund is to provide investment results that, before expenses, correspond generally to the price and yield performance of publicly traded equity securities of companies in a particular sector or group of industries, as represented by a corresponding benchmark index referred to herein as a Select Sector Index. SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (SSGA FM or the Adviser) manages each Select Sector SPDR Fund.
Each Select Sector SPDR Fund offers and issues Shares at their net asset value only in aggregations of a specified number of Shares (each, a Creation Unit). Each Select Sector SPDR Fund offers and issues Creation Units generally in exchange for a basket of equity securities included in its Select Sector Index (Deposit Securities) together with the deposit of a specified cash payment (Cash Component). The Shares are listed on the Exchange and trade at market prices. These prices may differ from the Shares net asset values. The Shares are also redeemable only in Creation Unit aggregations (except upon termination of a Select Sector SPDR Fund), and generally in exchange for portfolio securities and a specified cash payment (Cash Redemption Amount). A Creation Unit of each Select Sector SPDR Fund consists of 50,000 Shares as set forth in the Prospectus.
The Trust reserves the right to offer a cash option for purchases and redemptions of Creation Units (subject to applicable legal requirements) although it has no current intention of doing so. Creation Units may be issued in advance of receipt of all Deposit Securities subject to various conditions including a requirement to maintain on deposit with the Trust cash in an amount at least equal to a specified percentage of the market value of the missing Deposit Securities as set forth in the Participant Agreement (as defined below). See Purchase and Redemption of Creation Units. The Trust may impose a transaction fee for each creation or redemption. In all cases, such fees will be limited in accordance with the requirements of the SEC applicable to management investment companies offering redeemable securities.
THE SELECT SECTOR INDICES AND RELEVANT EQUITY MARKETS
Each of the 11 Select Sector Indices that is the benchmark for a Select Sector SPDR Fund is intended to give investors an efficient, modified market capitalization-based way to track the movement of baskets of equity securities of public companies that are components of the S&P 500 and are included in a particular sector or group of industries.
CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS FOR THE SELECT SECTOR INDICES
Selection Criteria
Each Select Sector Index was developed and is maintained in accordance with the following criteria:
Each of the component stocks in a Select Sector Index (the Component Stocks) has been selected from the universe of companies defined by the S&P 500.
The 11 Select Sector Indices include all of the companies represented in the S&P 500.
The Index Compilation Agent assigns each constituent stock of the S&P 500 Index to a Select Sector Index based on GICS, except that 1) a constituent stock assigned to the Financial Select Sector Index will also be assigned to either the Financial Services Select Sector Index or the Real Estate Select Sector Index and 2) stocks classified in either the GICS Information Technology Sector or the GICS Telecommunications Services Sector will be assigned to the Technology Sector Index. S&P DJI has sole control over the removal of stocks from the S&P 500 and the selection of replacement stocks to be added to the S&P 500.
Each Select Sector Index is weighted based on the market capitalization of each of the Component Stocks, subject to the following asset diversification requirements: (i) the market capitalization-based weighted value of any single Component Stock measured on the last day of a calendar quarter may not exceed 25% of the total value of its respective Select Sector Index; and (ii) the sum of the constituent stocks with weight greater than 4.8% cannot exceed 50% of the total Index weight.
4
Rebalancing the Select Sector Indices to meet the asset diversification requirements will be the responsibility of S&P. If shortly prior to the last business day of any calendar quarter (a Quarterly Qualification Date), a Component Stock (or two or more Component Stocks) approaches the maximum allowable value limits set forth above (the Asset Diversification Limits), the percentage that such Component Stock (or Component Stocks) represents in the Select Sector Index will be reduced and the market capitalization-based weighted value of such Component Stock (or Component Stocks) will be redistributed across the Component Stocks that do not closely approach the Asset Diversification Limits in accordance with the following methodology: First, each Component Stock that exceeds 24% of the total value of the Select Sector Index will be reduced to 23% of the total value of the Select Sector Index and the aggregate amount by which all Component Stocks exceed 24% will be redistributed equally across the remaining Component Stocks that represent less than 23% of the total value of the Select Sector Index. If as a result of this redistribution, another Component Stock then exceeds 24%, the redistribution will be repeated as necessary. Second, with respect to the 50% of the value of the Select Sector Index accounted for by the lowest weighted Component Stocks, each Component Stock that exceeds 4.8% of the total value of the Select Sector Index will be reduced to 4.6% and the aggregate amount by which all Component Stocks exceed 4.8% will be distributed equally across all remaining Component Stocks that represent less than 4.6% of the total value of the Select Sector Index. If as a result of this redistribution another Component Stock that did not previously exceed 4.8% of the Select Sector Index value then exceeds 4.8%, the redistribution will be repeated as necessary until at least 50% of the value of the Select Sector Index is accounted for by Component Stocks representing no more than 4.8% of the total value of the Select Sector Index. If necessary, this reallocation process may take place more than once prior to a Quarterly Qualification Date to insure that the Select Sector Index and the Select Sector SPDR Fund portfolio based upon it conform to the requirements for qualification of the Select Sector SPDR Fund as a regulated investment company (RIC), under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Internal Revenue Code or IRC).
Periodically, the Index Compilation Agent will supply S&P with sector designations for a number of stocks deemed likely candidates for replacement selection by the Standard & Poors 500 Index Committee. If a replacement not on the current list is selected by the Standard & Poors 500 Index Committee, S&P will ask the Index Compilation Agent to assign the stock to one or more of the 11 sectors promptly. S&P will disseminate information on this assignment and on consequent changes in the Select Sector Index(es).
The Index Compilation Agent at any time may determine that a Component Stock which has been assigned to a Select Sector Index has undergone such a transformation in the composition of its business that it should be removed from that Select Sector Index and assigned to a different Select Sector Index, or that it should remain in the Select Sector Index and be assigned to an additional Select Sector Index. In the event that the Index Compilation Agent notifies S&P that a Component Stocks Select Sector Index assignment should be changed, S&P will disseminate notice of the change following its standard procedure for announcing index changes and will implement the change in the affected Select Sector Indices on a date no less than one week after the initial dissemination of information on the sector change to the maximum extent practicable. It is not anticipated that Component Stocks will change sectors frequently.
Component Stocks removed from and added to the S&P 500 will be deleted from and added to the appropriate Select Sector Index(es) on the same schedule used by S&P DJI for additions and deletions from the S&P 500 insofar as practicable.
Select Sector Index Calculations
With the exception of the weighting constraints described above, each Select Sector Index is calculated using the same methodology utilized by S&P DJI in calculating the S&P 500. In particular:
Each Select Sector Index is calculated using a base-weighted aggregate methodology; that means the level of the Select Sector Index reflects the total market value of all of its Component Stocks relative to a particular base period. Statisticians refer to this type of index, one with a set of combined variables (such as price and number of shares), as a composite index.
The total market value of a company is determined by multiplying the price of the stock by the number of common shares outstanding. An indexed number is used to represent the results of the aggregate market value calculation in order to make the value easier to work with and track over time.
The daily calculation of each Select Sector Index is computed by dividing the total market value of the companies in the Select Sector Index by a number called the Index Divisor. By itself, the Index Divisor is an arbitrary number. However, in the context of the calculation of the Select Sector Index, it is the only link to the original base period value of the Select Sector Index. The Index Divisor keeps the Select Sector Index comparable over time and adjustments to the Index Divisor ensure that there are no changes in the Select Sector Index level as a result of non-market forces (corporate actions, replacements of stocks in a Select Sector Index, weighting changes, etc.).
5
Four times a year on a Friday close to the end of each calendar quarter, the share totals of the companies in the S&P 500 are updated by S&P DJI. This information is utilized to update the share totals of companies in each Select Sector Index. After the totals are updated, the Index Divisor is adjusted to compensate for the net change in the market value of the Select Sector Index.
Once a week the database containing the current common shares outstanding for the S&P 500 companies is compared by S&P DJI against the shares outstanding used to actually calculate the S&P 500. Any difference of 5% or more is screened for review by S&P DJI. If appropriate, a share change will be implemented by S&P DJI after the close of trading on the following Friday. Preannounced corporate actions such as restructurings and recapitalizations can significantly change a companys shares outstanding. Any changes over 5% are reviewed by S&P DJI and, when appropriate, an immediate adjustment is made to the number of shares outstanding used to calculate the Select Sector Index. Any adjustment made by S&P DJI in shares outstanding will result in a corresponding adjustment to each affected Select Sector Index.
S&P DJI handles corporate actions which may arise from time to time and which may have an impact on the calculation of the S&P 500 and, consequently, on the calculation of the Select Sector Index. Corporate actions such as a merger or acquisition, stock splits, spin-offs, etc., require adjustments in the Select Sector Index calculation. Index Divisor adjustments, calculated when necessary, are handled by S&P DJI in its maintenance of the S&P 500. In the event a merger or acquisition changes the relative importance of a companys participation in two or more sectors in a major way, the Select Sector Index assignment of the stock may change. In any event, a new Index Divisor for affected Select Sector Indices will be disseminated promptly by S&P DJI.
Select Sector Index Dissemination
Similar to other published stock index values, the value of each Select Sector Index will be calculated continuously and disseminated at least every 15 seconds via the Consolidated Tape Association. The major electronic financial data vendors Bloomberg and Reutersare expected to publish information on each Select Sector Index for their subscribers.
Brief descriptions of the Select Sector Indices on which the Funds are based and the equity markets in which the Funds are invested are provided below. A list of the Component Stocks included in each Fund will be included in the Trusts Semi-Annual Report, after the Funds commence operations.
There is no assurance that any Fund holds any particular security, is invested in any particular industry or is invested in a particular security/industry in any certain percentage. Holdings in the Funds will change.
Select Sector Index Description
THE FINANCIAL SERVICES SELECT SECTOR INDEX
The Financial Services Select Sector Index is intended to give investors an efficient, modified market capitalization-based way to track the movements of certain public companies that are components of the S&P 500 and are involved in the development, production and provision of financial services.
THE REAL ESTATE SELECT SECTOR INDEX
The Real Estate Select Sector Index is intended to give investors an efficient, modified market capitalization-based way to track the movements of certain public companies that are components of the S&P 500 and are involved in the investment in and/or management and development of real estate.
6
LENDING PORTFOLIO SECURITIES
Each Fund may lend portfolio securities to certain creditworthy borrowers in an amount not to exceed one-quarter (25%) of the value of its total assets. The borrowers provide collateral, that is marked to market daily, in an amount at least equal to 102% of the current market value of the securities loaned. A Fund may terminate a loan at any time and obtain the securities loaned. A Fund receives the value of any interest or cash or non-cash distributions paid on the loaned securities. A Fund cannot vote proxies for securities on loan, but may recall loans to vote proxies if a material issue affecting the Funds economic interest in the investment is to be voted upon. Distributions received on loaned securities in lieu of dividend payments ( i.e., substitute payments) would not be considered qualified dividend income.
With respect to loans that are collateralized by cash, the borrower will be entitled to receive a fee based on the amount of cash collateral. A Fund is compensated by the difference between the amount earned on the reinvestment of cash collateral and the fee paid to the borrower. In the case of collateral other than cash, a Fund is compensated by a fee paid by the borrower equal to a percentage of the market value of the loaned securities. Any cash collateral may be reinvested in certain short-term instruments either directly on behalf of each lending Fund or through one or more joint accounts or money market funds, which may include those managed by the Adviser.
A Fund may pay a portion of the interest or fees earned from securities lending to a borrower as described above, and to one or more securities lending agents approved by the Board who administer the lending program for the Funds in accordance with guidelines approved by the Board. In such capacity, the lending agent causes the delivery of loaned securities from a Fund to borrowers, arranges for the return of loaned securities to the Fund at the termination of a loan, requests deposit of collateral, monitors the daily value of the loaned securities and collateral, requests that borrowers add to the collateral when required by the loan agreements, and provides recordkeeping and accounting services necessary for the operation of the program. State Street Bank and Trust Company (State Street), an affiliate of the Trust, has been approved by the Board to serve as a securities lending agent for each Fund and the Trust has entered into an agreement with State Street for such services. Among other matters, the Trust has agreed to indemnify State Street for certain liabilities. State Street has received an order of exemption from the SEC under Sections 17(a) and 12(d)(1) under the 1940 Act to serve as the lending agent for affiliated investment companies such as the Trust and to invest the cash collateral received from loan transactions to be invested in an affiliated cash collateral fund.
Securities lending involves exposure to certain risks, including operational risk ( i.e ., the risk of losses resulting from problems in the settlement and accounting process), gap risk ( i.e ., the risk of a mismatch between the return on cash collateral reinvestments and the fees the Fund has agreed to pay a borrower), and credit, legal, counterparty and market risk. Although State Street has agreed to provide the Funds with indemnification in the event of a borrower default, the Funds are still exposed to the risk of losses in the event a borrower does not return a Funds securities as agreed. For example, delays in recovery of lent securities may cause a Fund to lose the opportunity to sell the securities at a desirable price.
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS (REITs)
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund may invest a portion of its assets in Mortgage REITs (as defined below) and The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund may invest a portion of its assets in REITs (excluding Mortgage REITs). REITs pool investors funds for investment primarily in income producing real estate or real estate loans or interests. A REIT is not taxed on income distributed to shareholders if it complies with several requirements relating to its organization, ownership, assets and income and a requirement that it distribute to its shareholders at least 90% of its taxable income (other than net capital gains) for each taxable year. REITs can generally be classified as Equity REITs, Mortgage REITs and Hybrid REITs. Equity REITs, which invest the majority of their assets directly in real property, derive their income primarily from rents. Equity REITs can also realize capital gains by selling properties that have appreciated in value. Mortgage REITs, which invest the majority of their assets in real estate mortgages, derive their income primarily from interest payments. Hybrid REITs combine the characteristics of both Equity REITs and Mortgage REITs. The Funds will not invest in real estate directly, but only in securities issued by real estate companies. However, the Funds may be subject to risks similar to those associated with the direct ownership of real estate (in addition to securities markets risks). These include declines in the value of real estate, risks related to general and local economic conditions, dependency on management skill, heavy cash flow dependency, possible lack of availability of mortgage funds, overbuilding, extended vacancies of properties, increased competition, increases in property taxes and operating expenses, changes in zoning laws, losses due to costs resulting from the clean-up of environmental problems, liability to third parties for damages resulting from environmental problems, casualty or condemnation losses, limitations on rents, changes in neighborhood values, the appeal of properties to tenants and changes in interest rates. Investments in REITs may subject Fund shareholders to duplicate management and administrative fees.
7
In addition to these risks, Equity REITs may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by the trusts, while Mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of any credit extended. Further, Equity and Mortgage REITs are dependent upon management skills and may not be diversified. Equity and Mortgage REITs are also subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers and self-liquidation. In addition, Equity and Mortgage REITs could possibly fail to qualify for the beneficial tax treatment available to REITs under the Internal Revenue Code, or to maintain their exemptions from registration under the 1940 Act. The above factors may also adversely affect a borrowers or a lessees ability to meet its obligations to the REIT. In the event of a default by a borrower or lessee, the REIT may experience delays in enforcing its rights as a mortgagee or lessor and may incur substantial costs associated with protecting investments.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
Each Fund may invest in repurchase agreements with commercial banks, brokers or dealers to generate income from its excess cash balances and to invest securities lending cash collateral. A repurchase agreement is an agreement under which a Fund acquires a financial instrument (e.g., a security issued by the U.S. Government or an agency thereof, a bankers acceptance or a certificate of deposit) from a seller, subject to resale to the seller at an agreed upon price and date (normally, the next Business Day as defined below). A repurchase agreement may be considered a loan collateralized by securities. The resale price reflects an agreed upon interest rate effective for the period the instrument is held by a Fund and is unrelated to the interest rate on the underlying instrument.
In these repurchase agreement transactions, the securities acquired by a Fund (including accrued interest earned thereon) must have a total value in excess of the value of the repurchase agreement and are held by the Custodian until repurchased. No more than an aggregate of 15% of a Funds net assets will be invested in illiquid securities, including repurchase agreements having maturities longer than seven days and securities subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale, or for which there are no readily available market quotations.
The use of repurchase agreements involves certain risks. For example, if the other party to the agreement defaults on its obligation to repurchase the underlying security at a time when the value of the security has declined, a Fund may incur a loss upon disposition of the security. If the other party to the agreement becomes insolvent and subject to liquidation or reorganization under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code or other laws, a court may determine that the underlying security is collateral for a loan by a Fund not within the control of the Fund and, therefore, the Fund may not be able to substantiate its interest in the underlying security and may be deemed an unsecured creditor of the other party to the agreement.
OTHER SHORT-TERM INSTRUMENTS
In addition to repurchase agreements, each Fund may invest in short-term instruments, including money market instruments (including money market funds advised by the Adviser), repurchase agreements, cash and cash equivalents, on an ongoing basis to provide liquidity or for other reasons. Money market instruments are generally short-term investments that may include but are not limited to: (i) shares of money market funds (including those advised by the Adviser); (ii) obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities (including government-sponsored enterprises); (iii) negotiable certificates of deposit (CDs), bankers acceptances, fixed time deposits and other obligations of U.S. and foreign banks (including foreign branches) and similar institutions; (iv) commercial paper rated at the date of purchase Prime-1 by Moodys or A-1 by S&P, or if unrated, of comparable quality as determined by the Adviser; (v) non-convertible corporate debt securities (e.g., bonds and debentures) with remaining maturities at the date of purchase of not more than 397 days and that satisfy any rating requirements set forth in Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act; and (vi) short-term U.S. dollar-denominated obligations of foreign banks (including U.S. branches) that, in the opinion of the Adviser, are of comparable quality to obligations of U.S. banks which may be purchased by a Fund. Any of these instruments may be purchased on a current or a forward-settled basis. Time deposits are non-negotiable deposits maintained in banking institutions for specified periods of time at stated interest rates. Bankers acceptances are time drafts drawn on commercial banks by borrowers, usually in connection with international transactions.
INVESTMENT COMPANIES
Each Fund may invest in the securities of other investment companies, including money market funds (including those advised by the Adviser or otherwise affiliated with the Adviser), subject to applicable limitations under Section 12(d)(1) of the 1940 Act, SEC rules, and the Funds investment restrictions.
If a Fund invests in and, thus, is a shareholder of, another investment company, the Funds shareholders will indirectly bear the Funds proportionate share of the fees and expenses paid by such other investment company, including advisory fees, in addition to both the management fees payable directly by the Fund to the Funds own investment adviser and the other expenses that the Fund bears directly in connection with the Funds own operations.
8
FUTURES CONTRACTS, OPTIONS AND SWAP AGREEMENTS
Each Fund may invest up to 5% of its assets in derivatives, including utilizing exchange-traded futures and options contracts and swap agreements. A Fund will segregate cash and/or appropriate liquid assets if required to do so by SEC or U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) regulations or interpretations.
FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS
Futures contracts generally provide for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified commodity or security at a specified future time and at a specified price. Index futures contracts are settled daily with a payment by one party to the other of a cash amount based on the difference between the level of the index specified in the contract from one day to the next. Futures contracts are standardized as to maturity date and underlying instrument and are traded on futures exchanges.
A Fund is required to make a good faith margin deposit in cash or U.S. government securities with a broker or custodian to initiate and maintain open positions in futures contracts. A margin deposit is intended to assure completion of the contract (delivery or acceptance of the underlying commodity or payment of the cash settlement amount) if it is not terminated prior to the specified delivery date. Brokers may establish deposit requirements which are higher than the exchange minimums. Futures contracts are customarily purchased and sold on margin deposits which may range upward from less than 5% of the value of the contract being traded.
After a futures contract position is opened, the value of the contract is marked to market daily. If the futures contract price changes to the extent that the margin on deposit does not satisfy margin requirements, payment of additional variation margin will be required. Conversely, change in the contract value may reduce the required margin, resulting in a repayment of excess margin to the contract holder. Variation margin payments are made to and from the futures broker for as long as the contract remains open. In such case, a Fund would expect to earn interest income on its margin deposits. Closing out an open futures position is done by taking an opposite position (buying a contract which has previously been sold, or selling a contract previously purchased) in an identical contract to terminate the position. Brokerage commissions are incurred when a futures contract position is opened or closed.
A Fund may purchase and sell put and call options. Such options may relate to particular securities and may or may not be listed on a national securities exchange and issued by The Options Clearing Corporation.
A Fund may use exchange-traded futures and options, together with positions in cash and money market instruments, to simulate investment in one or more of the securities in its underlying Select Sector SPDR Index. Exchange-traded futures and options contracts are not currently available for the Select Sector Indices. Under such circumstances, the Adviser may seek to utilize other instruments that it believes to be correlated to the applicable Select Sector Index components or a subset of the components. Options on the Shares have been listed on the Exchange.
The Trust, on behalf of the Funds, has filed a notice of eligibility for exclusion from the definition of the term commodity pool operator so that each Fund is not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool operator under the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA). Under the exemption provided under CFTC Regulation 4.5, as currently in effect, if a Fund uses futures, options on futures, or swaps other than for bona fide hedging purposes (as defined by the CFTC), the aggregate initial margin and premiums on these positions (after taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on any such positions and excluding the amount by which options that are in-the-money at the time of purchase ) may not exceed 5% of the Funds net asset value, or alternatively, the aggregate net notional value of those positions may not exceed 100% of the Funds net asset value (after taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on any such positions).
RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF FUTURES AND OPTIONS
In connection with its management of the Funds, the Adviser has claimed an exclusion from registration as a commodity trading advisor under the CEA and, therefore, is not subject to the registration and regulatory requirements of the CEA. Each Fund reserves the right to engage in transactions involving futures and options thereon to the extent allowed by the CFTC regulations in effect from time to time and in accordance with each Funds policies. Each Fund would take steps to prevent its futures positions from leveraging its securities holdings. When it has a long futures position, it will maintain with its custodian bank, cash or cash equivalents. When it has a short futures position, it will maintain with its custodian bank assets substantially identical to those underlying the contract or cash and cash equivalents (or a combination of the foregoing) having a value equal to the net obligation of the Fund under the contract (less the value of any margin deposits in connection with the position).
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SWAP AGREEMENTS
Each Fund may enter into swap agreements, including interest rate, index and total return swap agreements. Swap agreements are contracts between parties in which one party agrees to make payments to the other party based on the change in market value or level of a specified rate, index or asset. In return, the other party agrees to make payments to the first party based on the return of a different specified rate, index or asset. Swap agreements will usually be done on a net basis, i.e ., where the two parties make net payments with the Fund receiving or paying, as the case may be, only the net amount of the two payments. The net amount of the excess, if any, of a Funds obligations over its entitlements with respect to each swap is accrued on a daily basis and an amount of cash or cash equivalents having an aggregate value at least equal to the accrued excess is maintained in an account by the Fund.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS AND RISKS
A discussion of the risks associated with an investment in each Fund is contained in the Prospectus. The discussion below supplements, and should be read in conjunction with, the Prospectus.
GENERAL. Investment in a Fund should be made with an understanding that the value of a Funds portfolio securities may fluctuate in accordance with changes in the financial condition of the issuers of the portfolio securities, the value of securities generally and other factors.
An investment in a Fund should also be made with an understanding of the risks inherent in an investment in equity securities, including the risk that the financial condition of issuers may become impaired or that the general condition of the securities markets may deteriorate (either of which may cause a decrease in the value of the portfolio securities and thus in the value of Shares). Securities are susceptible to general market fluctuations and to volatile increases and decreases in value as market confidence in and perceptions of their issuers change. These investor perceptions are based on various and unpredictable factors, including expectations regarding government, economic, monetary and fiscal policies, inflation and interest rates, economic expansion or contraction, and global or regional political, economic and banking crises.
While S&P DJI often chooses a replacement company for the S&P 500 with some characteristics in common with a company or companies removed from the index, it is not uncommon for a replacement company to have little in common with the company it replaces. Consequently, the removal of one company and its replacement by another may affect two Select Sector Indices and two or more Select Sector SPDR Funds, one of which included a company now removed from the S&P 500 and another which may have a company added to it.
Holders of common stocks incur more risk than holders of preferred stocks and debt obligations because common stockholders, as owners of the issuer, have generally inferior rights to receive payments from the issuer in comparison with the rights of creditors of, or holders of debt obligations or preferred stocks issued by, the issuer. Further, unlike debt securities which typically have a stated principal amount payable at maturity (whose value, however, will be subject to market fluctuations prior thereto), or preferred stocks which typically have a liquidation preference and which may have stated optional or mandatory redemption provisions, common stocks have neither a fixed principal amount nor a maturity. Common stock values are subject to market fluctuations as long as the common stock remains outstanding.
Although most of the securities in the Select Sector Indices are listed on a national securities exchange, the principal trading market for some securities in a Select Sector Index may be in the over-the-counter market. The existence of a liquid trading market for certain securities may depend on whether dealers will make a market in such securities. There can be no assurance that a market will be made or maintained or that any such market will be or remain liquid. The price at which securities may be sold and the value of a Funds Shares will be adversely affected if trading markets for a Funds portfolio securities are limited or absent or if bid/ask spreads are wide.
FUTURES AND OPTIONS TRANSACTIONS. Positions in futures contracts and options may be closed out only on an exchange which provides a secondary market for such financial instruments. However, there can be no assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for any particular futures contract or option at any specific time. Thus, it may not be possible to close a futures or options position. In the event of adverse price movements, a Fund would continue to be required to make daily cash payments to maintain its required margin. In such situations, if the Fund has insufficient cash, it may have to sell portfolio securities to meet daily margin requirements at a time when it may be disadvantageous to do so. In addition, the applicable Fund may be required to make delivery of the instruments underlying futures contracts it has sold.
Each Fund will minimize the risk that it will be unable to close out a futures or options contract by only entering into futures and options for which there appears to be a liquid secondary market.
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The risk of loss in trading futures contracts or uncovered call options in some strategies (e.g., selling uncovered stock index futures contracts) is potentially unlimited. The Funds do not plan to use futures and options contracts in this manner. The risk of a futures position may still be large as traditionally measured due to the low margin deposits required. In many cases, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in immediate and substantial loss or gain to the investor relative to the size of a required margin deposit. Options trading is a highly specialized activity that entails greater than ordinary investment risk. Options on particular securities may be more volatile than the underlying securities, and therefore, on a percentage basis, an investment in options may be subject to greater fluctuation than an investment in the underlying securities themselves. The Funds, however, intend to utilize futures and options contracts in a manner designed to limit their risk exposure to that which is comparable to what they would have incurred through direct investment in securities.
Utilization of futures transactions by a Fund involves the risk of imperfect or even negative correlation to its benchmark Select Sector Index if the index underlying the futures contracts differs from the benchmark Select Sector Index. There is also the risk of loss by a Fund of margin deposits in the event of bankruptcy of a broker with whom a Fund has an open position in the futures contract or option.
Certain financial futures exchanges limit the amount of fluctuation permitted in futures contract prices during a single trading day. The daily limit establishes the maximum amount that the price of a futures contract may vary either up or down from the previous days settlement price at the end of a trading session. Once the daily limit has been reached in a particular type of contract, no trades may be made on that day at a price beyond that limit. The daily limit governs only price movement during a particular trading day and therefore does not limit potential losses, because the limit may prevent the liquidation of unfavorable positions. Futures contract prices have occasionally moved to the daily limit for several consecutive trading days with little or no trading, thereby preventing prompt liquidation of futures positions and subjecting some futures traders to substantial losses.
RISKS OF SWAP AGREEMENTS. Swap agreements are subject to the risk that the swap counterparty will default on its obligations. If such a default occurs, a Fund will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction, but such remedies may be subject to bankruptcy and insolvency laws which could affect such Funds rights as a creditor. A Fund may also be exposed to the risk of loss upon the early termination of a swap agreement.
The use of interest-rate and index swaps is a highly specialized activity that involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio security transactions. The use of a swap requires an understanding not only of the referenced asset, reference rate, or index but also of the swap itself, without the benefit of observing the performance of the swap under all possible market conditions. These transactions generally do not involve the delivery of securities or other underlying assets or principal.
The swaps market is largely unregulated. It is possible that developments in the swaps market, including potential government regulation, could adversely affect a Funds ability to terminate existing swap agreements or to realize amounts to be received under such agreements.
Because they are two party contracts that may be subject to contractual restrictions on transferability and termination and because they may have terms of greater than seven days, swap agreements may be considered to be illiquid and subject to a Funds limitation on investments in illiquid securities. To the extent that a swap is not liquid, it may not be possible to initiate a transaction or liquidate a position at an advantageous time or price, which may result in significant losses. Like most other investments, swap agreements are subject to the risk that the market value of the instrument will change in a way detrimental to a Funds interest.
If a Fund uses a swap as a hedge against, or as a substitute for, a portfolio investment, the Fund will be exposed to the risk that the swap will have or will develop imperfect or no correlation with the portfolio investment. This could cause substantial losses for the Fund. While hedging strategies involving swap instruments can reduce the risk of loss, they can also reduce the opportunity for gain or even result in losses by offsetting favorable price movements in other Fund investments. Many swaps are complex and often valued subjectively.
CYBER SECURITY RISK. With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet and the dependence on computer systems to perform business and operational functions, investment companies (such as the Funds) and their service providers (including the Adviser) may be prone to operational and information security risks resulting from cyber-attacks and/or technological malfunctions. In general, cyber-attacks are deliberate, but unintentional events may have similar effects. Cyber-attacks include, among others, stealing or corrupting data maintained online or digitally, preventing legitimate users from accessing information or services on a website, releasing confidential information without authorization, and causing operational disruption. Successful cyber-attacks against, or security breakdowns of, a Fund, the Adviser, or a custodian, transfer agent, or other affiliated or third-party service provider may adversely affect a Fund or its shareholders. For instance, cyber-attacks may interfere with the processing of shareholder transactions, affect a Funds ability to calculate its NAV, cause the release of private shareholder information or confidential Fund information,
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impede trading, cause reputational damage, and subject the Fund to regulatory fines, penalties or financial losses, reimbursement or other compensation costs, and additional compliance costs. Cyber-attacks may render records of Fund assets and transactions, shareholder ownership of Fund shares, and other data integral to the functioning of the Fund inaccessible or inaccurate or incomplete. The Funds may also incur substantial costs for cyber security risk management in order to prevent cyber incidents in the future. The Funds and their shareholders could be negatively impacted as a result. While the Adviser has established business continuity plans and systems designed to minimize the risk of cyber-attacks through the use of technology, processes and controls, there are inherent limitations in such plans and systems, including the possibility that certain risks have not been identified given the evolving nature of this threat. The Funds rely on third-party service providers for many of their day-to-day operations, and will be subject to the risk that the protections and protocols implemented by those service providers will be ineffective to protect the Fund from cyber-attack. Similar types of cyber security risks also are present for issuers of securities in which the Funds invest, which could result in material adverse consequences for such issuers, and may cause a Funds investment in such securities to lose value.
CONTINUOUS OFFERING. The method by which Creation Units are purchased and traded may raise certain issues under applicable securities laws. Because new Creation Units are issued and sold by each Fund on an ongoing basis, at any point a distribution, as such term is used in the Securities Act, may occur.
Broker-dealers and other persons are cautioned that some activities on their part may, depending on the circumstances, result in their being deemed participants in a distribution in a manner which could render them statutory underwriters and subject them to the prospectus delivery and liability provisions of the Securities Act. For example, a broker-dealer firm or its client may be deemed a statutory underwriter if it takes Creation Units after placing an order with the principal underwriter, breaks them down into individual Fund Shares, and sells such Fund Shares directly to customers, or if it chooses to couple the creation of a supply of new Fund Shares with an active selling effort involving solicitation of secondary market demand for Fund Shares. A determination of whether one is an underwriter for purposes of the Securities Act must take into account all the facts and circumstances pertaining to the activities of the broker-dealer or its client in the particular case, and the examples mentioned above should not be considered a complete description of all the activities that could lead to categorization as an underwriter.
Broker-dealer firms should also note that dealers who are not underwriters but are effecting transactions in Fund Shares, whether or not participating in the distribution of Shares, are generally required to deliver a prospectus or summary prospectus. This is because the prospectus delivery exemption in Section 4(3) of the Securities Act is not available with respect to such transactions as a result of Section 24(d) of the 1940 Act.
The Trust has adopted the following investment restrictions as fundamental policies with respect to each Fund. These restrictions cannot be changed with respect to a Fund without the approval of the holders of a majority of such Funds outstanding voting securities. For purposes of the 1940 Act, a majority of the outstanding voting securities of a Fund means the vote, at an annual or a special meeting of the security holders of the Trust, of the lesser of (1) 67% or more of the voting securities of the Fund present at such meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of such Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund. Except with the approval of a majority of the outstanding voting securities, a Fund may not:
1. Change its investment objective;
2. Lend any funds or other assets except through the purchase of all or a portion of an issue of securities or obligations of the type in which it is permitted to invest (including participation interests in such securities or obligations) and except that a Fund may lend its portfolio securities in an amount not to exceed 33 1/3% of the value of its total assets;
3. Issue senior securities or borrow money, except borrowings from banks for temporary or emergency purposes in an amount up to 10% of the value of the Funds total assets (including the amount borrowed), valued at market, less liabilities (not including the amount borrowed) valued at the time the borrowing is made, and the Fund will not purchase securities while borrowings in excess of 5% of the Funds total assets are outstanding, provided, that for purposes of this restriction, short-term credits necessary for the clearance of transactions are not considered borrowings (this limitation on purchases does not apply to acceptance by the Fund of a deposit principally of securities included in the relevant Select Sector Index for creation of Creation Units);
4. Pledge, hypothecate, mortgage or otherwise encumber its assets, except to secure permitted borrowings. (The deposit of underlying securities and other assets in escrow and collateral arrangements with respect to initial or variation margin for futures contracts or options contracts will not be deemed to be pledges of the Funds assets);
5. Purchase, hold or deal in real estate, or oil, gas or mineral interests or leases, but a Fund may purchase and sell securities that are issued by companies that invest or deal in such assets;
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6. Act as an underwriter of securities of other issuers, except to the extent the Fund may be deemed an underwriter in connection with the sale of securities in its portfolio;
7. Purchase securities on margin, except for such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of transactions, except that a Fund may make margin deposits in connection with transactions in options, futures and options on futures;
8. Sell securities short; or
9. Invest in commodities or commodity contracts, except that a Fund may transact in exchange traded futures contracts on securities, stock indexes and options on such futures contracts and make margin deposits in connection with such contracts.
In addition to the investment restrictions adopted as fundamental policies as set forth above, each Fund observes the following restrictions, which may be changed by the Board without a shareholder vote. A Fund:
1. Will not invest in the securities of a company for the purpose of exercising management or control, provided that the Trust may vote the investment securities owned by each Fund in accordance with its views.
2. Will not hold illiquid assets in excess of 15% of its net assets. An illiquid asset is any asset which may not be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business within seven days at approximately the value at which the Fund has valued the investment.
3. Will, under normal circumstances, invest at least 95% of its total assets in common stocks that compose its relevant Select Sector Index. Prior to any change in a Funds 95% investment policy, a Fund will provide shareholders with at least 60 days written notice.
4. Will not invest in securities issued by other investment companies so that, as determined immediately after a purchase of such securities is made: (i) not more than 5% of the value of the Funds total assets will be invested in the securities of any one investment company; (ii) not more than 10% of the value of its total assets will be invested in the aggregate in securities of investment companies as a group; and (iii) not more than 3% of the outstanding voting stock of any one investment company will be owned by the Fund.
If a percentage limitation is adhered to at the time of investment or contract, a later increase or decrease in percentage resulting from any change in value or total or net assets will not result in a violation of such restriction, except that the percentage limitations with respect to the borrowing of money and illiquid securities will be observed continuously. With respect to the limitation on illiquid securities, in the event that a subsequent change in net assets or other circumstances cause a Fund to exceed its limitation, the Fund will take steps to bring the aggregate amount of illiquid instruments back within the limitations as soon as reasonably practicable.
A discussion of exchange listing and trading matters associated with an investment in the Funds is contained in the Prospectus under SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT PURCHASES, SALES AND TAXES and ADDITIONAL PURCHASE AND SALE INFORMATION. The discussion below supplements, and should be read in conjunction with, such sections of the Prospectus.
The Shares of each Fund are approved for listing and trading on the Exchange. The Shares trade on the Exchange at prices that may differ to some degree from their net asset value. There can be no assurance that the requirements of the Exchange necessary to maintain the listing of Shares of any Fund will continue to be met.
The Exchange may but is not required to remove the Shares of a Fund from listing if (1) following the initial twelve-month period beginning upon the commencement of trading of a Fund, there are fewer than 50 beneficial holders of the Shares for 30 or more consecutive trading days; (2) the value of the underlying Select Sector Index or the portfolio securities on which such Fund is based is no longer calculated or available; (3) the indicative optimized portfolio value (IOPV) of a Fund is no longer calculated or available; or (4) such other event shall occur or condition exist that, in the opinion of the Exchange, makes further dealings on the Exchange inadvisable. In addition, the Exchange will remove the Shares from listing and trading upon termination of the Trust or a Fund.
The Trust reserves the right to adjust the Share price of a Fund in the future to maintain convenient trading ranges for investors. Any adjustments would be accomplished through stock splits or reverse stock splits, which would have no effect on the net assets of the Fund.
As in the case of other publicly traded securities, brokers commissions on transactions will be based on negotiated commission rates at customary levels.
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The following information supplements and should be read in conjunction with the section in the Prospectus entitled MANAGEMENT.
The Board has responsibility for the overall management, operations and business affairs of the Trust, including general supervision and review of its investment activities. The Trustees elect the officers of the Trust who are responsible for administering the day-to-day operations of the Trust and the Funds.
The Trustees and executive officers of the Trust, along with their year of birth, principal occupations over the past five years, length of time served, total number of portfolios overseen in the fund complex, public and fund directorships held and other positions and their affiliations, if any, with the Adviser, are listed below:
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST
|
NAME, ADDRESS AND YEAR OF BIRTH |
POSITION(S) WITH TRUST |
TERM OF OFFICE AND LENGTH OF TIME SERVED |
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S) DURING PAST 5 YEARS |
NUMBER OF
PORTFOLIOS IN FUND COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY TRUSTEE |
OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD BY TRUSTEE |
|||||
| INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES | ||||||||||
|
CHERYL BURGERMEISTER c/o The Select Sector SPDR Trust State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1951 |
Trustee; Chairman of the Board, Member of the Audit Committee, Member of the Nominating and Governance Committee |
Unlimited Elected: October 1998 |
Retired; Finance Committee Member, Portland Community College Foundation (January 2001 to present); Active CPA in Oregon. | 11 | Lead Independent Director, ALPS Series Trust; Director and Member of the Audit and Nominating and Governance Committees, Russell Funds Complex. | |||||
|
GEORGE R. GASPARI c/o The Select Sector SPDR Trust State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1940 |
Trustee, Chairman of the Audit Committee, Member of the Nominating and Governance Committee |
Unlimited Elected: October 1998 |
Financial Services Consultant (1996 to 2012). | 11 | Director and Member of the Audit Committee, Liberty All-Star Growth Fund, Inc.; Trustee and Member of the Audit Committee, Liberty All-Star Equity Fund. | |||||
|
ASHLEY T. RABUN c/o The Select Sector SPDR Trust State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1952 |
Trustee, Member of the Audit Committee, Member of the Nominating and Governance Committee |
Unlimited Appointed: October 2015 |
Retired; President and Founder, InvestorReach, Inc., a financial services consulting firm (1996 to 2014). | 11 | Chairperson of the Board and Member of the Audit and Nominating Committees, Investment Managers Series Trust. | |||||
|
ERNEST J. SCALBERG c/o The Select Sector SPDR Trust State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1945 |
Trustee, Member of the Audit Committee, Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee |
Unlimited Elected: October 1998 |
Retired; Research Professor and Director of the GLOBE Center, Monterey Institute of International Studies (2009 to 2014); Associate Vice President for External Programs and Dean of Fisher Graduate School of International Business (2001 to 2009). | 11 |
Director and Chairman of the Audit Committee of Principal Real Estate Income Fund; Director and Member of the Audit and Nominating Committees, db-X Exchange-Traded Funds Inc. (2007- 2015); Chairman of the Board of the Foundation, International University in Geneva (IUG), Switzerland. |
|||||
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|
NAME, ADDRESS AND YEAR OF BIRTH |
POSITION(S) WITH TRUST |
TERM OF OFFICE AND LENGTH OF TIME SERVED |
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S) DURING PAST 5 YEARS |
NUMBER OF
PORTFOLIOS IN FUND COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY TRUSTEE |
OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD BY TRUSTEE |
|||||
|
R. CHARLES TSCHAMPION c/o The Select Sector SPDR Trust State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1946 |
Trustee, Member of the Audit Committee, Member of the Nominating and Governance Committee, Chair of the Business Continuity Management Team |
Unlimited Elected: October 1998 |
Retired; Director, Special Projects, CFA Institute (2010 to 2014); Director, Industry Relations, CFA Institute (2005 to 2010); Trustee of Lehigh University (October 1998 to June 2010). | 11 | Trustee Emeritus of Lehigh University. | |||||
|
INTERESTED TRUSTEE |
||||||||||
|
JAMES E. ROSS* SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1965 |
Trustee |
Unlimited Appointed: November 2005 |
Chairman and Director, SSGA Funds Management Inc. (2005-present); President, SSGA Funds Management Inc. (2005-2012); Executive Vice President and Principal, State Street Global Advisors (2006-present). | 264 |
SPDR Series Trust (Trustee); SPDR Index Shares Funds (Trustee); SSGA Active Trust (Trustee); SSGA Master Trust (Trustee); SSGA Funds (Trustee); State Street Master Funds (Trustee); and State Street Institutional Investment Trust (Trustee). |
|||||
| * | Mr. Ross is an interested person of the Trust, as defined in the 1940 Act, because of his employment with the Adviser and ownership interest in an affiliate of the Adviser. |
|
NAME, ADDRESS AND YEAR OF BIRTH |
POSITION(S) WITH TRUST |
TERM OF OFFICE AND LENGTH OF TIME SERVED |
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S) DURING PAST 5 YEARS |
|||
|
OFFICERS |
||||||
|
ELLEN M. NEEDHAM SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1967 |
President and Principal Executive Officer |
Unlimited Elected: May 2013 |
President and Director, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (June 2012-present); Chief Operating Officer, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (May 2010-June 2012); Senior Managing Director, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (1992-2012)*; Senior Managing Director, State Street Global Advisors (1992-present).* | |||
|
MICHAEL P. RILEY SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1969 |
Vice President |
Unlimited Elected: February 2005 |
Vice President, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (2008-present); Principal, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (2005-2008). | |||
|
CHAD C. HALLETT SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1969 |
Treasurer and Principal Financial Officer |
Unlimited Elected: November 2007 |
Vice President, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (November 2014-present); Vice President, State Street Bank and Trust Company (2001 to November 2014).* | |||
|
ANN CARPENTER SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1966 |
Assistant Treasurer |
Unlimited Elected: April 2015 |
Vice President, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (2005-present).* | |||
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|
NAME, ADDRESS AND YEAR OF BIRTH |
POSITION(S) WITH TRUST |
TERM OF OFFICE AND LENGTH OF TIME SERVED |
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S) DURING PAST 5 YEARS |
|||
|
JOSHUA A. WEINBERG SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1978 |
Chief Legal Officer |
Unlimited Elected: February 2015 |
Vice President and Managing Counsel, State Street Global Advisors (2011 present); Clerk, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (2013 present); Associate, Financial Services Group, Dechert LLP (2006 2011). | |||
|
JESSE D. HALLEE State Street Bank and Trust Company 100 Huntington Avenue Mail Stop CPH0326 Boston, MA 02116 1976 |
Secretary |
Unlimited Elected: November 2013 |
Vice President and Senior Counsel, State Street Bank and Trust Company (2013 to present); Vice President and Counsel, Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. (2007-2013).** | |||
|
PATRICIA A. MORISETTE State Street Bank and Trust Company 100 Huntington Avenue Mail Stop CPH0326 Boston, MA 02116 1973 |
Assistant Secretary |
Unlimited Elected: August 2015 |
Vice President and Counsel, State Street Bank and Trust Company (2014-present); Assistant Vice President and Counsel, John Hancock Financial Services (2011-2013); Independent legal consultant (2009-2011); Associate, Bingham McCutchen LLP (2003-2009).*,** | |||
|
BRIAN HARRIS SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1973 |
Chief Compliance Officer and AML Compliance Officer |
Unlimited Elected: November 2013 |
Vice President, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (2013 to present); Senior Vice President and Global Head of Investment Compliance, BofA Global Capital Management (2010-2013); Director of Compliance, AARP Financial Inc. (2008-2010). | |||
|
TREVOR SWANBERG SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 1979 |
Code of Ethics Compliance Officer |
Unlimited Elected: August 2015 |
Vice President, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (January 2015-Present); Senior Manager Mutual Fund Compliance, ICMA-Retirement Corporation (December 2011- January 2015); Assistant Vice President, J.P. Morgan (September 2007-December 2011). | |||
| * | Served in various capacities during the noted time period. |
| ** | Served in various capacities and/or with unaffiliated mutual funds or closed-end funds for which State Street Bank and Trust Company or its affiliates act as a provider of services during the noted time period. |
Leadership Structure and Board of Trustees
The Board has general oversight responsibility with respect to the business and affairs of the Trust. The Board is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Funds in accordance with the provisions of the 1940 Act, other applicable laws and the Trusts Declaration of Trust. The Board is composed of five Independent Trustees and one Interested Trustee. In accordance with the Board Governance Policies, the Board has appointed an Independent Trustee to serve as Chairman of the Board. Generally, the Board acts by majority vote of all of the Trustees, including a majority vote of the Independent Trustees if required by applicable law. The Trusts day-to-day operations are managed by the Adviser and other service providers who have been approved by the Board. The Board meets periodically throughout the year to oversee the Trusts activities, review contractual arrangements with service providers, oversee compliance with regulatory requirements, and review performance. The Board has determined that its leadership structure is appropriate given the size of the Board, the extensive experience of each Trustee (other than Ms. Rabun) with the Trust and the number and nature of Funds within the Trust.
The Trustees were selected to serve and continue on the Board based upon their skills, experience, judgment, analytical ability, diligence, ability to work effectively with other Trustees and a commitment to the interests of shareholders and, with respect to the Independent Trustees, a demonstrated willingness to take an independent and questioning view of management. Each Trustee also has considerable familiarity with the Funds, the Adviser, the Administrator, the Sub-Administrator and the Distributor, and their operations, as well as the special regulatory requirements governing regulated investment companies and the special responsibilities of investment company directors as a result of his or her substantial prior service as a Trustee of the Trust and/or as a director of other investment companies. In addition to those qualifications, the following is a brief summary of the specific experience, qualifications or skills that led to the conclusion, as of the date of this SAI, that each person identified below should serve as a Trustee for the Trust.
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References to the qualifications, attributes and skills of the Trustees are pursuant to requirements of the SEC, and do not constitute a representation that the Board or any Trustee has any special expertise and do not impose any greater responsibility or liability on any such person or on the Board by reason thereof. As required by rules the SEC has adopted under the 1940 Act, the Trusts Independent Trustees select and nominate all candidates for Independent Trustee positions.
Cheryl Burgermeister. Ms. Burgermeister has served as a Trustee of the Trust since inception in 1998, and has served as Chairman of the Board since January 2015. She also serves on the Nominating and Governance Committee and the Audit Committee and has been designated by the Board as an audit committee financial expert, as defined in SEC rules. Ms. Burgermeister has served on the Finance Committee of the Portland Community College Foundation since 2001. She previously served as a Trustee and as Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair of the Portland Community College Foundation from 2001 to 2015. Ms. Burgermeister has been an active member of the Oregon Society of Certified Public Accountants since 1987. Ms. Burgermeister serves as Lead Independent Director of ALPS Series Trust (since 2012) and as a Director and member of the Audit Committee and the Nominating and Governance Committee of the Russell Funds Complex (since 2012). She previously served as a Trustee and Audit Committee Chair of the E*TRADE Funds (four index funds, one fund of funds and one actively managed fund) from 2004-2009 and the Zero Gravity Internet Fund from 2000-2001. From 1987 to 1999, she was employed by The Crabbe Huson Group, Inc. and was involved in the start-up of the Crabbe Huson Family of Funds, serving in various positions including Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Director of the Crabbe Huson Family of Funds. Prior thereto, she served as a supervising senior accountant with KPMG Peat Marwick.
George R. Gaspari. Mr. Gaspari has served as a Trustee of the Trust since inception in 1998, and served as Chairman of the Board from 2006 to December 2014. Mr. Gaspari also serves on the Nominating and Governance Committee and as Chairman of the Audit Committee and has been designated by the Board as an audit committee financial expert, as defined in SEC rules. Since 2006, Mr. Gaspari also has served as a Director and member of the Audit Committee of the Liberty All-Star Growth Fund, Inc., and as a Trustee and member of the Audit Committee of the Liberty All-Star Equity Fund. He was a financial services consultant from 1996 to 2012. Prior thereto, he served as Chief Financial Officer of the Evergreen Funds and as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Evergreen Asset Management Corp. and served as a Director of the Evergreen Funds.
Ashley T. Rabun. Ms. Rabun has served as a Trustee of the Trust since October 2015. Ms. Rabun also serves on the Nominating and Governance Committee and on the Audit Committee. Since 2007, she has also served as Chairperson of the Board and Member of the Audit Committee and Nominating Committee of Investment Managers Series Trust. From 1996 to 2014, Ms. Rabun served as President and Chief Executive Officer of InvestorReach, Inc., a financial services consulting firm. She served as Partner and President of Mutual Funds advised by Nicholas Applegate Capital Management from 1992 to 1996. From 1990 to 1992, Ms. Rabun served as Marketing Director at InterInvest, Inc. Prior thereto, she was employed as a registered representative for several brokerage firms.
James E. Ross. Mr. Ross has served as a Trustee of the Trust since 2005 and served as President from November 2010 to May 2013. Mr. Ross is the Global Head of SSGAs SPDR Exchange Traded Funds business. He has been an Executive Vice President of SSGA since 2013 and Chairman and Director of the Adviser since 2005. He served as Senior Managing Director of SSGA from 2006 to 2013 and President of the Adviser from 2005 to 2012. Mr. Ross is responsible globally for all aspects of the exchange traded fund business including strategy, research, distribution and capital markets interaction. Mr. Ross has extensive history with Exchange Traded Funds and is frequently quoted in the press regarding ETFs. In addition to his global exchange traded fund responsibilities he serves on several committees including SSGAs Executive Management Group and Global Product Committee. Mr. Ross also serves as a Trustee of SPDR Series Trust, SPDR Index Shares Funds, SSGA Active Trust, SSGA Master Trust, SSGA Funds, State Street Master Funds and State Street Institutional Investment Trust. Since June 2010, Mr. Ross has chaired the Investment Company Institutes Exchange-Traded Funds Committee. Mr. Ross is also on the Board of Governors of the Investment Company Institute.
Ernest J. Scalberg, Ph.D. Dr. Scalberg has served as a Trustee of the Trust since inception in 1998. He also serves as Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee and on the Audit Committee and has been designated by the Board as an audit committee financial expert, as defined in SEC rules. Dr. Scalberg was Director of the GLOBE Center at the Monterey Institute of International Studies from 2009 to 2014. Dr. Scalberg was Associate Vice President for External Programs and Dean of the Fisher Graduate School of International Business at the Monterey Institute of International Studies from 2001 to 2009. Dr. Scalberg was Dean of the Graduate School of Business Administration and Dean of Faculty of the Schools of Business at Fordham University from 1994 to 2001. In the 1980s, Dr. Scalberg established UCLAs Executive MBA Program and a new style of MBA program for the fully employed professional. In 1990 he moved to Hong Kong, where for three years he created a new school of business at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, in a partnership between UCLA and the Hong Kong government. Dr. Scalberg served on the Board, and on the Audit and Nominating Committees, of the db-X Exchange-Traded Funds Inc. (formerly known as TDX Independence Funds, Inc.) from 2007 to 2015. He currently serves on the Board and serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee of the Principal Real Estate Income Fund. Dr. Scalberg also has served on the Boards of numerous non-profit organizations from 1974 to the present, and is the current Chairman of the Board of the Foundation of the International University in Geneva, Switzerland.
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R. Charles Tschampion, CFA. Mr. Tschampion has served as a Trustee of the Trust since inception in 1998. He also is a member of the Nominating and Governance Committee, serving as Chair of the Business Continuity Management Team, and the Audit Committee. He has been designated by the Board as an audit committee financial expert, as defined in SEC rules. Mr. Tschampion is a CFA charterholder and served on staff at the CFA Institute beginning in 2005, where he served as Director of Special Projects from August 2005 until August 2014. He retired from General Motors after a 37-year career, including 28 years at General Motors Asset Management, where his last position was Managing Director of Investment Research and of Defined Contribution Plans. Mr. Tschampion sat on the AIMR Board of Governors from 1995 to 2001 and served as Chairman from 1999 to 2000. He has chaired CFA Institute task forces and committees developing standards for performance presentation, soft dollars, personal investing and corporate governance. Mr. Tschampion was a Trustee of Lehigh University from 1998 to 2010 and served as Chair of the Investment Sub-Committee for the Lehigh University Endowment Fund from 1998 to 2008; he currently is Trustee Emeritus of Lehigh University. Mr. Tschampion also served as a Director, Chairman of the Audit Committee and a member of the Nominating Committee of db-X Exchange-Traded Funds Inc. (formerly known as TDX Independence Funds, Inc.) from 2007 to 2015.
Risk Oversight
The day-to-day operations of the Funds, including the management of risk, is performed by third party service providers, such as the Adviser, Distributor, Administrator and Sub-Administrator. The Trustees are responsible for overseeing the Trusts service providers and thus have oversight responsibilities with respect to risk management performed by those service providers. Risk management seeks to identify and address risks, i.e ., events or circumstances that could have material adverse effects on the business, operations, shareholder services, investment performance or reputation of the Funds. The Trust and its service providers employ a variety of processes, procedures and controls to identify certain of those possible events or circumstances, to lessen the probability of their occurrence and/or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur.
Not all risks that may affect the Funds can be identified nor can controls be developed to eliminate or mitigate their occurrence or effects. It may not be practical or cost effective to eliminate or mitigate certain risks, the processes and controls employed to address certain risks may be limited in their effectiveness, and some risks are simply beyond the reasonable control of the Funds or the Adviser or other service providers. Moreover, it is necessary to bear certain risks (such as investment-related risks) to achieve a Funds goals. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, the Funds ability to manage risk is subject to substantial limitations.
Risk oversight forms part of the Boards general oversight of the Funds and is addressed as part of various Board and Committee activities. As part of its regular oversight of the Funds, the Board, directly or through a Committee, interacts with and reviews reports from, among others, the Adviser, the Trusts Chief Compliance Officer and the independent registered public accounting firm, as appropriate, regarding risks faced by the Funds. The Board is responsible for overseeing the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Funds by the Adviser and receives information about those services at its regular meetings. The Board has met with the Advisers Chief Risk Officer to review the Advisers approach to addressing risks. In addition, on an annual basis, in connection with its consideration of whether to renew the Advisory Agreement, the Board meets with the Adviser to review the services provided. Among other things, the Board regularly considers the Advisers adherence to the Funds investment restrictions and compliance with various Fund policies and procedures and with applicable securities regulations. The Board has appointed a Chief Compliance Officer who oversees the implementation and testing of the Trusts compliance program and reports to the Board regarding compliance matters for the Trust and its service providers. The Board, with the assistance of the Adviser, reviews investment policies and risks in connection with its review of the Funds performance. In addition, as part of the Boards oversight of the Funds advisory and other service provider agreements, the Board may periodically consider risk management aspects of their operations and the functions for which they are responsible. The Board has approved Pricing Procedures intended to address valuation issues. The Board also has established a Business Continuity Plan to prepare for and respond to various risks that could negatively impact the Boards key functions and therefore affect the operations of the Trust. Mr. Tschampion serves as the Business Continuity Plan Management Team Chair.
The Board has established the following Committees and the membership of each Committee to assist in its oversight functions, including its oversight of the risks the Funds face. Committee membership is identified below. Each Committee must report its activities to the Board on a regular basis.
Audit Committee . The Board has an Audit Committee consisting of all Trustees who are not interested persons (as defined by the 1940 Act) of the Trust. Mr. Gaspari serves as the Chairman. The primary purpose of the Committee is to assist the Board in fulfilling certain of its responsibilities. The Audit Committee serves as an independent and objective party to monitor the Funds accounting policies, financial reporting and internal control system, as well as the work of the independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee assists Board oversight of (1) the quality and integrity of the Funds financial statements and the independent audit thereof; (2) the Funds accounting and financial reporting processes and internal control over financial reporting; (3) the Funds compliance with legal and regulatory requirements that relate to the Funds accounting and financial reporting, internal control over financial reporting and independent audits; and (4) the qualifications, independence and performance of the Funds independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee meets with the Trusts independent auditors to
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review and approve the scope and results of their professional services; to review the procedures for evaluating the adequacy of the Trusts accounting controls; to consider the range of audit fees; and to make recommendations to the Board regarding the engagement of the Trusts independent auditors. The Audit Committee met two (2) times during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015.
Nominating and Governance Committee . The Board has a Nominating and Governance Committee consisting of all Trustees who are not interested persons (as defined by the 1940 Act) of the Trust. Dr. Scalberg serves as Chairman. The Nominating and Governance Committee oversees administration of the Board Governance Policies and will consider proposals for candidates to serve as independent Trustees. Any such proposals should be sent to the Trust in care of the Nominating and Governance Committee Chairman. The final recommendation of a prospective independent Trustee rests solely with the Nominating and Governance Committee. The Nominating and Governance Committee also periodically reviews Independent Trustee compensation. The Nominating and Governance Committee oversees the Business Continuity Management Team and the Crisis Communication Team. The Nominating and Governance Committee met five (5) times during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015.
When evaluating a person as a potential nominee to serve as an independent Trustee, the Committee will generally consider, among other factors: age; education; relevant business experience; geographical factors; whether the person is independent and otherwise qualified under applicable laws and regulations to serve as a Trustee; and whether the person is willing to serve, and willing and able to commit the time necessary for attendance at meetings and the performance of the duties of an independent Trustee. The Committee also meets personally with the nominees and conducts a reference check. The final decision is based on a combination of factors, including the strengths and the experience an individual may bring to the Board. The Committee believes the Board generally benefits from diversity of background, experience and views among its members, and considers this a factor in evaluating the composition of the Board, but has not adopted any specific policy in this regard.
Non-Board Committees
Oversight Committee . In addition to the Committees described above that have been established by the Board, there is also an Oversight Committee of the Adviser, which is subject to oversight by the Board. In accordance with the valuation procedures adopted by the Board, the Oversight Committee makes determinations as to whether market quotations are not readily available or do not otherwise accurately reflect the fair value of the security. The Oversight Committee, or a subgroup thereof, subject to oversight by the Board, may use fair value pricing in a variety of circumstances, including but not limited to, situations when trading in a security has been suspended or halted. The Oversight Committee meets only when necessary. The Board met four (4) times during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2015 to review activities of the Oversight Committee during the preceding quarter. Oversight Committee members do not receive any compensation from the Trust for their services.
Remuneration of Trustees and Officers
No officer, director or employee of the Adviser, its parent or subsidiaries receives any compensation from the Trust for serving as an officer or Trustee of the Trust. The Trust pays each Trustee who is not an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) an annual retainer plus a per meeting fee for each regularly scheduled meeting of the Board attended by the Trustee (whether in person or telephonically) and any other telephonic meeting. The Chairman of the Board (who is an Independent Trustee) receives an additional fee. The Trust also reimburses each Trustee for travel and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred by him/her in connection with attending such meetings and in connection with attending industry seminars and meetings. Audit Committee and Nominating and Governance Committee members receive per meeting fees and the Chairman of the Audit Committee and the Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee also receive an additional fee. Effective January 1, 2015, the Trustee serving as Chair of the Business Continuity Management Team receives an annual fee for these services.
The Interested Trustee receives no compensation for his service as Trustee. The Trustee fees and expenses will be allocated among the Select Sector SPDR Funds based on net assets. The Funds had not commenced operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore did not pay any Trustee fees or expenses for the past fiscal year.
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The following table sets forth the total fees accrued with respect to the remuneration of Trustees of the Trust for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2014.
|
Name of Trustee |
Aggregate
Compensation from Trust |
Pension or Retirement
Benefits Accrued as Part of Trust Expenses |
Estimated Annual
Benefits Upon Retirement |
Total
Compensation from Trust & Fund Complex |
||||||||
|
Cheryl Burgermeister. |
$ | 156,250 | N/A | N/A | $ | 156,250 | ||||||
|
George R. Gaspari |
$ | 177,000 | N/A | N/A | $ | 177,000 | ||||||
|
Ashley T. Rabun * |
N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | ||||||||
|
Ernest J. Scalberg |
$ | 155,250 | N/A | N/A | $ | 155,250 | ||||||
|
R. Charles Tschampion |
$ | 147,500 | N/A | N/A | $ | 147,500 | ||||||
| * | Ms. Rabun was appointed to the Board effective as of October 1, 2015. |
No officers receive compensation from the Trust and no Trustee or officer is entitled to any pension or retirement benefits from the Trust.
OWNERSHIP OF FUND SHARES
The Funds had not commenced operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore the Trustees did not beneficially own any Fund Shares.
The following table sets forth information describing the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by each Trustee in the Trust as of December 31, 2014.
| Name of Trustee |
Fund |
Dollar Range of
Equity Securities in the Trust |
Aggregate Dollar Range of
Equity Securities in All Select Sector SPDR Funds Overseen by Trustee in Family of Investment Companies |
|||
|
Cheryl Burgermeister |
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund | $1 to $10,000 | $10,001 - $50,000 | |||
| The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund | $10,001 - $50,000 | |||||
|
George R. Gaspari |
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund | $10,001 - $50,000 | Over $100,000 | |||
| The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund | $10,001 - $50,000 | |||||
| The Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund | $10,001 - $50,000 | |||||
| The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund | $10,001 - $50,000 | |||||
| The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund | $10,001 - $50,000 | |||||
|
Ashley T. Rabun* |
N/A | N/A | N/A | |||
|
Ernest J. Scalberg |
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund | $1 to $10,000 | $10,001 - $50,000 | |||
| The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund | $1 to $10,000 | |||||
| The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund | $1 to $10,000 | |||||
| The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund | $1 to $10,000 | |||||
| The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund | $1 to $10,000 | |||||
| The Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund | $1 to $10,000 | |||||
| The Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund | $1 to $10,000 | |||||
| The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund | $1 to $10,000 | |||||
| The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund | $1 to $10,000 | |||||
|
R. Charles Tschampion |
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund | $50,001 - $100,000 | $50,001 - $100,000 | |||
|
James Ross** |
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund | $10,001 - $50,000 | Over $100,000 | |||
| The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund | $10,001 - $50,000 | |||||
| The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund | $10,001 - $50,000 | |||||
| The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund | $10,001 - $50,000 |
| * | Ms. Rabun was appointed to the Board effective as of October 1, 2015. |
| ** | Indicates an Interested Trustee. |
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CODES OF ETHICS. The Trust, the Adviser and the Distributor each have adopted a code of ethics as required by applicable law, which are designed to prevent affiliated persons of the Trust, the Adviser and the Distributor from engaging in deceptive, manipulative or fraudulent activities in connection with securities held or to be acquired by the Funds (which may also be held by persons subject to the codes of ethics). There can be no assurance that the codes of ethics will be effective in preventing such activities. Each code of ethics, filed as an exhibit to the Trusts registration statement, may be examined at the office of the SEC in Washington, D.C. or on the Internet at the SECs website at http://www.sec.gov.
PROXY VOTING POLICIES. The Board believes that the voting of proxies on securities held by the Funds is an important element of the overall investment process. As such, the Board has delegated the responsibility to vote such proxies to the Adviser. The Advisers proxy voting policy is attached to this SAI as Appendix A. Information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to their portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 will be available (1) without charge by calling 1-866-732-8673; (2) on the Funds website at www.sectorspdrs.com; and (3) the SECs website at www.sec.gov.
DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS POLICY. The Trust has adopted a policy regarding the disclosure of information about the Trusts portfolio holdings. The Board must approve all material amendments to this policy. The Funds portfolio holdings are publicly disseminated each day a Fund is open for business through financial reporting and news services including publicly accessible Internet web sites. In addition, a basket composition file, which includes the security names and share quantities to deliver in exchange for Fund shares, together with estimates and actual cash components, is publicly disseminated daily prior to the opening of the Exchange via the National Securities Clearing Corporation (the NSCC). The basket represents one Creation Unit of a Fund. The Trust, the Adviser or State Street will not disseminate non-public information concerning the Trust, except: (i) to a party for a legitimate business purpose related to the day-to-day operations of the Funds or (ii) to any other party for a legitimate business or regulatory purpose, upon waiver or exception.
THE INVESTMENT ADVISER. SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the SSGA FM or Adviser) acts as investment adviser to the Trust and, subject to the supervision of the Board, is responsible for the investment management of each Fund. As of June 30, 2015, the Adviser managed approximately $376.28 billion in assets. The Advisers principal address is State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111. The Adviser, a Massachusetts corporation, is a wholly owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation, a publicly held bank holding company. State Street Global Advisors (SSGA), consisting of the Adviser and other advisory affiliates of State Street Corporation, is the investment management arm of State Street Corporation.
The Adviser serves as investment adviser to each Fund pursuant to an investment advisory agreement (Investment Advisory Agreement) between the Trust and the Adviser. Under the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Adviser, subject to the supervision of the Board and in conformity with the stated investment policies of each Fund, manages the investment of each Funds assets. The Adviser is responsible for placing purchase and sale orders and providing continuous supervision of the investment portfolio of each Fund.
Pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Trust has agreed to indemnify the Adviser for certain liabilities, including certain liabilities arising under the federal securities laws, unless such loss or liability results from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or the reckless disregard of its obligations and duties.
The Investment Advisory Agreement with respect to each Fund continues in effect for two years from its effective date, and thereafter is subject to annual approval by (1) the Board or (2) vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) of a Fund, provided that in either event such continuance also is approved by a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust by a vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Investment Advisory Agreement with respect to each Fund is terminable without penalty, on 60 days notice, by the Board or by a vote of the holders of a majority of the applicable Funds outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 1940 Act). The Investment Advisory Agreement is also terminable upon 60 days notice by the Adviser and will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act).
For the services provided to each Fund under the Investment Advisory Agreement, each Fund pays the Adviser a fee accrued daily and payable monthly based on the Trusts average daily net assets at the following annual rates: 0.05% of the first $12.5 billion of average daily net assets of the Trust, 0.04% of the next $17.5 billion of average daily net assets of the Trust, 0.035% of the next $20.0 billion of average daily net assets of the Trust, 0.03% of the next $50.0 billion of average daily net assets of the Trust, 0.0285% of the next $50.0 billion of average daily net assets of the Trust, 0.0271% of the next $50.0 billion of average daily net assets of the Trust, and 0.0256% thereafter. The advisory fee is allocated pro rata to each Fund based upon the relative net assets of each Fund.
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The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and reimburse certain expenses, until January 31, 2017, so that the annual Fund operating expenses of The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund and The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund are limited to no more than 0.14% of the applicable Funds average daily net assets (exclusive of non-recurring account fees and extraordinary expenses). The Adviser may continue each waiver from year to year, but there is no guarantee that the Adviser will do so after January 31, 2017. The waiver and/or reimbursement may not be terminated prior to January 31, 2017 except with the approval of the Board.
A summary of the factors considered by the Board of Trustees in connection with the initial approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Funds will be available in the Trusts annual report or semi-annual report, as applicable, after the Funds commence operations.
The Funds had not commenced operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore did not pay fees to the Adviser for the past three fiscal years.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
The Adviser manages the Funds using a team of investment professionals. The following table lists the number and types of accounts managed by each of the key professionals involved in the day-to-day portfolio management for the Funds and assets under management in those accounts as of June 30, 2015:
|
Portfolio Manager |
Registered
Investment Company Accounts* |
Assets
Managed (billions) |
Pooled
Investment Vehicle Accounts* |
Assets
Managed (billions) |
Other
Accounts* |
Assets
Managed (billions) |
Total
Assets Managed (billions) |
|||||||||||||||||||||
|
Michael Feehily |
137 | $ | 181.67 | 384 | $ | 479.82 | 326 | $ | 258.90 | $ | 920.39 | |||||||||||||||||
|
John Tucker |
137 | $ | 181.67 | 384 | $ | 479.82 | 326 | $ | 258.90 | $ | 920.39 | |||||||||||||||||
|
Karl Schneider |
137 | $ | 181.67 | 384 | $ | 479.82 | 326 | $ | 258.90 | $ | 920.39 | |||||||||||||||||
| * | There are no performance fees associated with the management of these accounts. |
The Funds had not commenced operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore the portfolio managers did not beneficially own any Fund Shares.
A portfolio manager that has responsibility for managing more than one account may be subject to potential conflicts of interest because he or she is responsible for other accounts in addition to the funds. Those conflicts could include preferential treatment of one account over others in terms of: (a) the portfolio managers execution of different investment strategies for various accounts; or (b) the allocation of resources or of investment opportunities. The Adviser has adopted policies and procedures designed to address these potential material conflicts. For instance, portfolio managers are normally responsible for all accounts within a certain investment discipline, and do not, absent special circumstances, differentiate among the various accounts when allocating resources. Additionally, the Adviser and its advisory affiliates have processes and procedures for allocating investment opportunities among portfolios that are designed to provide a fair and equitable allocation among the portfolio managers accounts with the same strategy.
Portfolio managers may manage numerous accounts for multiple clients. These accounts may include registered investment companies, other types of pooled accounts (e.g., collective investment funds), and separate accounts ( i.e ., accounts managed on behalf of individuals or public or private institutions). Portfolio managers make investment decisions for each account based on the investment objectives and policies and other relevant investment considerations applicable to that portfolio. A potential conflict of interest may arise as a result of the portfolio managers responsibility for multiple accounts with similar investment guidelines. Under these circumstances, a potential investment may be suitable for more than one of the portfolio managers accounts, but the quantity of the investment available for purchase is less than the aggregate amount the accounts would ideally devote to the opportunity. Similar conflicts may arise when multiple accounts seek to dispose of the same investment. The portfolio managers may also manage accounts whose objectives and policies differ from that of the Funds. These differences may be such that under certain circumstances, trading activity appropriate for one account managed by the portfolio manager may have adverse consequences for another account managed by the portfolio manager. For example, an account may sell a significant position in a security, which could cause the market price of that security to decrease, while the fund maintained its position in that security.
A potential conflict may arise when the portfolio managers are responsible for accounts that have different advisory fees the difference in fees could create an incentive for the portfolio manager to favor one account over another, for example, in terms of access to investment opportunities. Another potential conflict may arise when the portfolio manager has an investment in one or more accounts that participate in transactions with other accounts. His or her investment(s) may create an incentive for the portfolio manager to favor one account over another. The Adviser has adopted policies and procedures reasonably designed to address these potential material conflicts. For instance, portfolio managers are normally responsible for all accounts within a certain investment discipline, and do not, absent special circumstances, differentiate among the various accounts when allocating resources.
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Additionally, the Adviser and its advisory affiliates have processes and procedures for allocating investment opportunities among portfolios that are designed to provide a fair and equitable allocation.
The compensation of the Advisers investment professionals is based on a number of factors. The first factor considered is external market. Through a compensation survey process, the Adviser seeks to understand what its competitors are paying people to perform similar roles. This data is then used to determine a competitive baseline in the areas of base pay, bonus, and long term incentive ( i.e . equity). The second factor taken into consideration is the size of the pool available for this compensation. The Adviser is a part of State Street Corporation, and therefore works within its corporate environment on determining the overall level of its incentive compensation pool. Once determined, this pool is then allocated to the various locations and departments of the Adviser and its affiliates. The discretionary determination of the allocation amounts to these locations and departments is influenced by the competitive market data, as well as the overall performance of the group. The pool is then allocated on a discretionary basis to individual employees based on their individual performance.
THE ADMINISTRATOR. SSGA FM serves as the administrator to each series of the Trust, pursuant to an Administration Agreement dated June 1, 2015 (the SSGA Administration Agreement). Pursuant to the SSGA Administration Agreement, SSGA FM is obligated to continuously provide business management services to the Trust and its series and will generally, subject to the general oversight of the Trustees and except as otherwise provided in the SSGA Administration Agreement, manage all of the business and affairs of the Trust.
THE SUB-ADMINISTRATOR, CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AGENT. Prior to June 1, 2015, State Street Bank and Trust Company (State Street) served as the Trusts administrator, pursuant to an Administration Agreement dated December 1, 1998 (the SSB Administration Agreement).
State Street serves as the sub-administrator to each series of the Trust, pursuant to a Sub-Administration Agreement dated June 1, 2015 (the Sub-Administration Agreement). Under the Sub-Administration Agreement, State Street is obligated to provide certain sub-administrative services to the Trust and its series. State Street is a wholly owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation, a publicly held bank holding company, and is affiliated with the SSGA FM. State Streets mailing address is 100 Huntington Avenue, Tower 2, 3rd Floor, Boston, MA 02116.
State Street also serves as Custodian for the Trusts series pursuant to a custodian agreement (Custodian Agreement). As Custodian, State Street holds the Funds assets, calculates the net asset value of each Fund Shares and calculates net income and realized capital gains or losses. State Street and the Trust will comply with the self-custodian provisions of Rule 17f-2 under the 1940 Act.
State Street also serves as Transfer Agent for each series of the Trust pursuant to a transfer agency agreement (Transfer Agency Agreement).
Compensation . As compensation for services provided under the Custodian Agreement, the Sub-Administration Agreement, the Transfer Agency Agreement and the SSGA Administration Agreement, the Trust pays an aggregate fee calculated based on the average aggregate net assets of the Trust, as follows: 0.07% for the first $4.5 billion of net assets of the Trust, 0.05% for the next $4.5 billion of net assets of the Trust, 0.03% for the next $3.5 billion of net assets of the Trust, 0.015% for the next $10.0 billion of net assets of the Trust, and 0.0075% thereafter. From the aggregate fee, as compensation for its services under the SSGA Administration Agreement, SSGA FM shall receive a fee for its services of 0.0006% of the net assets of the Trust and State Street, as compensation for its services under the Custodian, Sub-Administration and Transfer Agency Agreements, receives the residual of the Aggregate Fee less the fee paid to SSGA FM, In addition, State Street shall receive global safekeeping and transaction fees, which are calculated on a per-country basis, in-kind creation (purchase) and redemption transaction fees (as described below) and revenue on certain cash balances. State Street may be reimbursed by the series of the Trust for its out-of-pocket expenses.
THE DISTRIBUTOR. ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. (the Distributor) is the principal underwriter and Distributor of Shares. Its principal address is 1290 Broadway, Suite 1100, Denver, Colorado 80203. Investor information can be obtained by calling 1-866-732-8673. The Distributor has entered into a distribution agreement (Distribution Agreement) with the Trust pursuant to which it distributes Shares of each Fund. The Distribution Agreement will continue for one year from its effective date and is renewable annually thereafter. Shares will be continuously offered for sale by the Trust through the Distributor only in Creation Units, as described in the Prospectus and below under PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION OF CREATION UNITS. Shares in less than Creation Units are not distributed by the Distributor. The Distributor will deliver the Prospectus to persons purchasing Creation Units and will maintain records of both orders placed with it and confirmations of acceptance furnished by it. The Distributor is a broker-dealer
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registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). The Distributor has no role in determining the investment policies of the Trust or which securities are to be purchased or sold by the Trust.
The Adviser or the Distributor, or an affiliate of the Adviser or the Distributor, may directly or indirectly make cash payments to certain broker-dealers for participating in activities that are designed to make registered representatives and other professionals more knowledgeable about exchange traded products, including the Funds, or for other activities, such as participation in marketing activities and presentations, educational training programs, conferences, the development of technology platforms and reporting systems. Payments to a broker-dealer or intermediary may create potential conflicts of interest between the broker-dealer or intermediary and its clients. These amounts, which may be significant, are paid by the Adviser and/or Distributor from their own resources and not from the assets of the Funds.
The Board has adopted a distribution and service plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (each, a Plan) for each Fund. The terms of each Plan are described in the Prospectus.
Under its terms, each Funds Plan remains in effect from year to year, provided such continuance is approved annually by vote of the Board, including a majority of the Independent Trustees who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Plan or any agreement related to the Plan. The Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount to be spent for the services provided by the Distributor without approval by the shareholders of the Fund to which the Plan applies, and all material amendments of the Plan also require Board approval (as described above). Each Plan may be terminated at any time, without penalty, by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees, or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of such Fund (as such vote is defined in the 1940 Act). Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, the Distributor will provide the Board with periodic reports of any amounts expended under the Plan and the purpose for which such expenditures were made.
The Distribution Agreement provides that it may be terminated at any time, without the payment of any penalty, as to each Fund: (i) by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or (ii) by vote of a majority (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, on at least 60 days written notice to the Distributor. The Distribution Agreement is also terminable upon 60 days notice by the Distributor and will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act).
Pursuant to agreements entered into with such persons, the Distributor will make payments under each Funds Plan to certain broker-dealers or other persons (Investor Services Organizations) that enter into agreements with the Distributor in the form approved by the Board to provide distribution assistance and shareholder support, account maintenance and educational and promotional services (which may include compensation and sales incentives to the registered brokers or other sales personnel of the broker-dealer or other financial entity that is a party to an investor services agreement) (Investor Services Agreements). Each Investor Services Agreement will be a related agreement under the Plan of the relevant Fund. No Investor Services Agreement will provide for annual fees of more than 0.10% of a Funds average daily net assets per annum attributable to Shares subject to such agreement.
Subject to an aggregate limitation of 0.25% of a Funds average net assets per annum, the fees paid by a Fund under its Plan will be compensation for distribution, investor services or marketing services for that Fund. To the extent the Plan fees aggregate less than 0.25% per annum of the average daily net assets of a Fund, each Fund may also reimburse the Distributor and other persons for their respective costs incurred in printing prospectuses and producing advertising or marketing material prepared at the request of the Fund. The aggregate payments under each Plan will not exceed, on an annualized basis, 0.25% of average daily net assets of any Fund. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Board has voted to limit payments under each Plan, on annualized basis, to 0.040% of a Funds average daily net assets through at least January 31, 2017.
The Funds had not commenced operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore did not pay fees under a Plan during the past fiscal year.
The continuation of the Distribution Agreement, any Investor Services Agreements and any other related agreements is subject to annual approval of the Board, including by a majority of the Independent Trustees, as described above.
Each of the Investor Services Agreements will provide that it may be terminated at any time, without the payment of any penalty, (i) by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or (ii) by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund, on at least 60 days written notice to the other party. Each of the Distribution Agreement and the Investor Services Agreements is also terminable upon 60 days notice by the Distributor and will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act). Each Investor Services Agreement is also terminable by the applicable Investor Service Organization upon 60 days notice to the other party thereto.
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The allocation among the Select Sector SPDR Funds of fees and expenses payable under the Distribution Agreement and the Investor Services Agreements will be made pro rata in accordance with the daily net assets of the respective Select Sector SPDR Funds.
The Distributor may also enter into agreements with securities dealers (Soliciting Dealers) who will solicit purchases of Creation Unit aggregations of Fund Shares. Such Soliciting Dealers may also be Participating Parties (as defined in the Book Entry Only System section below), DTC Participants (as defined below) and/or Investor Services Organizations.
Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, the Trust has agreed to indemnify the Distributor, and may indemnify Soliciting Dealers and Authorized Participants (as described below) entering into agreements with the Distributor, for certain liabilities, including certain liabilities arising under the federal securities laws, unless such loss or liability results from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or the reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under the Distribution Agreement or other agreement, as applicable.
INDEX LICENSE. S&P, the Exchange and BofA Merrill Lynch have entered into a license agreement with respect to each Funds Select Sector Index. The Trust pays an annual sub-license fee (i) to S&P equal to 0.03% of the average aggregate daily net assets of the Trust up to and including $50 billion; and 0.02% of the average aggregate daily net assets of the Trust over $50 billion, and (ii) to BofA Merrill Lynch equal to 0.03% of the average aggregate daily net assets of the Trust up to $35 billion; 0.02% of the average aggregate daily net assets of the Trust over $35 billion up to and including $50 billion; and 0.01% of the average aggregate daily net assets of the Trust over $50 billion. The fees to S&P and BofA Merrill Lynch are generally paid quarterly. BofA Merrill Lynch is the marketing name for the global banking and global markets businesses of Bank of America Corporation. Index compilation services are performed by, and payments by the Trust made to, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, an affiliate of Bank of America Corporation. Each Fund will pay its proportionate share of the annual sub-license fees based on the relative net assets of such Fund.
The policy of the Trust regarding purchases and sales of securities for each Fund is that primary consideration will be given to obtaining the most favorable prices and efficient executions of transactions. Consistent with this policy, when securities transactions are effected on a stock exchange, the Trusts policy is to pay commissions which are considered fair and reasonable without necessarily determining that the lowest possible commissions are paid in all circumstances. The Trust believes that a requirement always to seek the lowest possible commission cost could impede effective portfolio management and preclude a Fund and the Adviser from obtaining a high quality of brokerage and research services. In seeking to determine the reasonableness of brokerage commissions paid in any transaction, the Adviser relies upon its experience and knowledge regarding commissions generally charged by various brokers and on its judgment in evaluating the brokerage and research services received from the broker effecting the transaction. Such determinations are necessarily subjective and imprecise, as in most cases an exact dollar value for those services is not ascertainable. The Trust has adopted policies and procedures that prohibit the consideration of sales of a Funds Shares as a factor in the selection of a broker or dealer to execute its portfolio transactions.
In selecting a broker-dealer for each specific transaction, the Adviser chooses the broker-dealer deemed most capable of providing the services necessary to obtain the most favorable execution and does not take the sales of Fund shares into account. The Adviser considers the full range of brokerage services applicable to a particular transaction that may be considered when making this judgment, which may include, but is not limited to: liquidity, price, commission, timing, aggregated trades, capable floor brokers or traders, competent block trading coverage, ability to position, capital strength and stability, reliable and accurate communications and settlement processing, use of automation, knowledge of other buyers or sellers, arbitrage skills, administrative ability, underwriting and provision of information on a particular security or market in which the transaction is to occur. The specific criteria will vary depending upon the nature of the transaction, the market in which it is executed, and the extent to which it is possible to select from among multiple broker-dealers. The Adviser will also use electronic crossing networks when appropriate.
The Adviser does not currently use the Funds assets for, or participate in, third party soft dollar arrangements, although the Adviser may receive proprietary research from various full service brokers, the cost of which is bundled with the cost of the brokers execution services. The Adviser does not pay up for the value of any such proprietary research. The Adviser may aggregate trades with clients of SSGA, whose commission dollars may be used to generate soft dollar credits for SSGA. Although the Advisers clients commissions are not used for third party soft dollars, the Advisers and SSGAs clients may benefit from the soft dollar products/services received by SSGA. The Adviser assumes general supervision over placing orders on behalf of the Trust for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities. If purchases or sales of portfolio securities of the Trust and one or more other investment companies or clients supervised by the Adviser or SSGA are considered at or about the same time, transactions in such securities are allocated among the several investment companies and clients in a manner deemed equitable and consistent with its fiduciary obligations to all by the Adviser. In some cases, this procedure could have a detrimental effect on the price or volume of the security
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so far as the Trust is concerned. However, in other cases, it is possible that the ability to participate in volume transactions and to negotiate lower brokerage commissions will be beneficial to the Trust. The primary consideration is prompt execution of orders at the most favorable net price.
The Funds will not deal with affiliates in principal transactions unless permitted by exemptive order or applicable rule or regulation.
The Funds had not commenced operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore did not pay brokerage commissions during the past three fiscal years.
Securities of Regular Broker-Dealers. The Funds are required to identify any securities of their regular brokers and dealers (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) which they may hold at the close of their most recent fiscal year. Regular brokers or dealers of the Trust are the ten brokers or dealers that, during the most recent fiscal year: (i) received the greatest dollar amounts of brokerage commissions from the Trusts portfolio transactions; (ii) engaged as principal in the largest dollar amounts of portfolio transactions of the Trust; or (iii) sold the largest dollar amounts of the Trusts Shares. The Funds are new and have not engaged in any portfolio transactions as of the date of this SAI.
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund may invest in the shares of some of the Funds regular broker-dealers because those issuers are components in the Financial Services Select Sector Index. In addition, a holding in The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund is a security of an issuer affiliated with the Adviser and State Street.
Portfolio turnover may vary from year to year, as well as within a year. High turnover rates are likely to result in comparatively greater brokerage expenses or transaction costs. The annual portfolio turnover rate for each Fund is expected to be under 50%. The overall reasonableness of brokerage commissions and transaction costs is evaluated by the Adviser based upon its knowledge of available information as to the general level of commissions and transaction costs paid by other institutional investors for comparable services.
The following information supplements and should be read in conjunction with the section in the Prospectus entitled ADDITIONAL PURCHASE AND SALE INFORMATION.
DTC acts as securities depositary for the Shares. Shares of each Fund are represented by securities registered in the name of DTC or its nominee, Cede & Co. and deposited with, or on behalf of, DTC. Except in the limited circumstance provided below, certificates will not be issued for Shares.
DTC, a limited-purpose trust company, was created to hold securities of its participants (the DTC Participants) and to facilitate the clearance and settlement of securities transactions among the DTC Participants in such securities through electronic book-entry changes in accounts of the DTC Participants, thereby eliminating the need for physical movement of securities certificates. DTC Participants include securities brokers and dealers, banks, trust companies, clearing corporations and certain other organizations, some of whom (and/or their representatives) own DTC. More specifically, DTC is owned by a number of its DTC Participants and by the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and the FINRA. Access to the DTC system is also available to others such as banks, brokers, dealers and trust companies that clear through or maintain a custodial relationship with a DTC Participant, either directly or indirectly (the Indirect Participants).
Beneficial ownership of Shares is limited to DTC Participants, Indirect Participants and persons holding interests through DTC Participants and Indirect Participants. Ownership of beneficial interests in Shares (owners of such beneficial interests are referred to herein as Beneficial Owners) is shown on, and the transfer of ownership is effected only through, records maintained by DTC (with respect to DTC Participants) and on the records of DTC Participants (with respect to Indirect Participants and Beneficial Owners that are not DTC Participants). Beneficial Owners will receive from or through the DTC Participant a written confirmation relating to their purchase of Shares.
Conveyance of all notices, statements and other communications to Beneficial Owners is effected as follows. Pursuant to the Depositary Agreement between the Trust and DTC, DTC is required to make available to the Trust upon request and for a fee to be charged to the Trust a listing of the Shares of each Fund held by each DTC Participant. The Trust, either directly or through a third party service, shall inquire of each such DTC Participant as to the number of Beneficial Owners holding Shares, directly or indirectly, through such DTC Participant. The Trust, either directly or through a third party service, shall provide each such DTC Participant with copies of such notice, statement or other communication, in such form, number and at such place as such DTC Participant may reasonably request, in order that such notice, statement or communication may be transmitted by such DTC Participant, directly or
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indirectly, to such Beneficial Owners. In addition, the Trust shall pay to each such DTC Participant and/or third party service a fair and reasonable amount as reimbursement for the expenses attendant to such transmittal, all subject to applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.
Share distributions shall be made to DTC or its nominee, Cede & Co., as the registered holder of all Shares. DTC or its nominee, upon receipt of any such distributions, shall credit immediately DTC Participants accounts with payments in amounts proportionate to their respective beneficial interests in Shares of each Fund as shown on the records of DTC or its nominee. Payments by DTC Participants to Indirect Participants and Beneficial Owners of Shares held through such DTC Participants will be governed by standing instructions and customary practices, as is now the case with securities held for the accounts of customers in bearer form or registered in a street name, and will be the responsibility of such DTC Participants.
The Trust has no responsibility or liability for any aspects of the records relating to or notices to Beneficial Owners, or payments made on account of beneficial ownership interests in such Shares, or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records relating to such beneficial ownership interests or for any other aspect of the relationship between DTC and the DTC Participants or the relationship between such DTC Participants and the Indirect Participants and Beneficial Owners owning through such DTC Participants.
DTC may determine to discontinue providing its service with respect to Shares at any time by giving reasonable notice to the Trust and discharging its responsibilities with respect thereto under applicable law. Under such circumstances, the Trust shall take action either to find a replacement for DTC to perform its functions at a comparable cost or, if such a replacement is unavailable, to issue and deliver printed certificates representing ownership of Shares, unless the Trust makes other arrangements with respect thereto satisfactory to the Exchange.
CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES
The Funds had not commenced operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore did not have any beneficial owners.
An Authorized Participant (as defined below) may hold of record more than 25% of the outstanding Shares of a Fund. From time to time, Authorized Participants may be a beneficial and/or legal owner of certain Funds, may be deemed to have control of the applicable Fund and may be able to affect the outcome of matters presented for a vote of the shareholders of such Fund(s). Authorized Participants may execute an irrevocable proxy granting the Distributor, State Street or an affiliate (the Agent) power to vote or abstain from voting such Authorized Participants beneficially or legally owned Shares of the applicable Fund. In such cases, the Agent shall mirror vote (or abstain from voting) such Shares in the same proportion as all other beneficial owners of the applicable Fund.
The Trustees and officers of the Trust, as a group, owned less than 1% of each Funds outstanding Shares as of the date of this SAI.
PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION OF CREATION UNITS
PURCHASE (CREATION). The Trust issues and sells Shares of each Fund only: (i) in Creation Units on a continuous basis through the Distributor, without a sales load (but subject to transaction fees), at their NAV next determined after receipt, on any Business Day (as defined below), of an order in proper form pursuant to the terms of the Authorized Participant Agreement (Participant Agreement). A Business Day with respect to each Fund is any day on which the NYSE is open for business.
The consideration for purchase of a Creation Unit of a Fund generally consists of the in-kind deposit of a designated portfolio of equity securities the Deposit Securities per each Creation Unit constituting a substantial replication, or a representation, of the stocks included in the relevant Funds Select Sector Index and an amount of cash the Cash Component computed as described below. Together, the Deposit Securities and the Cash Component constitute the Fund Deposit, which represents the minimum initial and subsequent investment amount for a Creation Unit of any Fund. The Cash Component is an amount equal to the Dividend Equivalent Payment (as defined below), plus or minus, as the case may be, a Balancing Amount (as defined below). The Dividend Equivalent Payment enables each Fund to make a complete distribution of dividends on the day preceding the next dividend payment date, and is an amount equal, on a per Creation Unit basis, to the dividends on all the portfolio securities of the Fund (Fund Securities) with ex-dividend dates within the accumulation period for such distribution (the Accumulation Period), net of expenses and liabilities for such period, as if all of the Fund Securities had been held by the Fund for the entire Accumulation Period. The Accumulation Period begins on the ex-dividend date for each Fund and ends on the day preceding the next ex-dividend date. The Balancing Amount is an amount equal to the difference between the net asset value of the Shares (per Creation Unit) and the Deposit Amount an amount equal to the sum of the market value of the Deposit Securities and the Dividend Equivalent Payment. If the Balancing Amount is a positive number (i.e ., the net asset value per Creation Unit exceeds the Deposit Amount), the Cash Component shall be increased by such positive amount. If the Balancing Amount is a negative number ( i.e ., the net asset value per
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Creation Unit is less than the Deposit Amount), the Cash Component shall be decreased by such negative amount. If the negative number is greater than the Dividend Equivalent Payment, the creator will be entitled to receive cash in an amount equal to the differential. The Balancing Amount serves the function of compensating for any differences between the net asset value per Creation Unit and the Deposit Amount.
The Custodian, through the NSCC, makes available on each Business Day, immediately prior to the opening of business on the Exchange (currently 9:30 a.m., Eastern time), the list of the names and the required number of shares of each Deposit Security to be included in the current Fund Deposit (based on information at the end of the previous Business Day) for each Fund. Such Fund Deposit is subject to any applicable adjustments as described below, in order to effect purchases of Creation Units of a given Fund until such time as the next-announced composition of the Deposit Securities is made available.
The identity and number of shares of the Deposit Securities required for a Fund Deposit for each Fund changes as rebalancing adjustments and corporate action events are reflected from time to time by the Adviser with a view to the investment objective of the applicable Fund. The composition of the Deposit Securities may also change in response to adjustments to the weighting or composition of the Component Stocks of the relevant Select Sector Index. In addition, the Trust reserves the right to permit or require the substitution of an amount of cash i.e ., a cash in lieu amount to be added to the Cash Component to replace any Deposit Security which may not be available in sufficient quantity for delivery or which may not be eligible for transfer through the Clearing Process (discussed below), or which may not be eligible for trading by an Authorized Participant (as defined below) or the investor for which it is acting (a non-standard order). Brokerage commissions incurred in connection with acquisition of Deposit Securities not eligible for transfer through the systems of DTC and hence not eligible for transfer through the Clearing Process (discussed below) will be at the expense of the Fund and will affect the value of all Shares; but the Adviser, subject to the approval of the Board, may adjust the transaction fee within the parameters described above to protect ongoing shareholders. The Trust also reserves the right to include or remove Deposit Securities from the basket in anticipation of index rebalancing changes. The adjustments described above will reflect changes, known to the Adviser on the date of announcement to be in effect by the time of delivery of the Fund Deposit, in the composition of the subject Select Sector Index being tracked by the relevant Fund or resulting from certain corporate actions.
PROCEDURES FOR PURCHASE OF CREATION UNITS. To be eligible to place orders with the Distributor, as facilitated via the Transfer Agent, to purchase a Creation Unit of a Fund, an entity must be (i) a Participating Party, i.e ., a broker- dealer or other participant in the clearing process through the Continuous Net Settlement System of the NSCC (the Clearing Process), a clearing agency that is registered with the SEC; or (ii) a DTC Participant (see BOOK ENTRY ONLY SYSTEM). In addition, each Participating Party or DTC Participant (each, an Authorized Participant) must execute a Participant Agreement that has been agreed to by the Distributor and the Transfer Agent, and that has been accepted by the Trust, with respect to purchases and redemptions of Creation Units. Each Authorized Participant will agree, pursuant to the terms of the Participant Agreement, on behalf of itself or any investor on whose behalf it will act, to certain conditions, including that it will pay to the Trust, an amount of cash sufficient to pay the Cash Component together with all applicable fees and taxes. All Shares of Funds, however created, will be entered on the records of DTC in the name of Cede & Co. for the account of a DTC Participant.
All orders to purchase Shares directly from the Funds, including non-standard orders, must be placed for one or more Creation Unit size aggregations of Shares (50,000 Shares in the case of each Fund) and in the manner set forth in the Participant Agreement and/or applicable order form, which sets for specific procedures associated with purchases through the Clearing Process and outside the Clearing Process. Those placing orders through an Authorized Participant should allow sufficient time to permit proper submission of the purchase order by the cut-off time on such Business Day. SSGM may assist Authorized Participants in assembling shares to purchase Creation Units (or upon redemption), for which it may receive commissions or other fees from such Authorized Participants.
Investors should be aware that an Authorized Participant may require orders for purchases of Shares placed with it to be in the particular form required by the individual Authorized Participant. In addition, the Authorized Participant may request the investor to make certain representations or enter into agreements with respect to the order, e.g., to provide for payments of cash, when required. Investors should also be aware that their particular broker may not have executed a Participant Agreement, and that, therefore, orders to purchase Creation Units of the Funds have to be placed by the investors broker through an Authorized Participant that has executed a Participant Agreement. At any given time there may be only a limited number of broker-dealers that have executed a Participant Agreement.
Creation Units may be purchased in advance of receipt by the Trust of all or a portion of the applicable Deposit Securities as described below. In these circumstances, the initial deposit will have a value greater than the net asset value of the Shares of a Fund on the date the order is placed in proper form since in addition to available Deposit Securities, cash must be deposited in an amount equal to the sum of (i) the Cash Component, plus (ii) 115% of the market value of the undelivered Deposit Securities (the Additional Cash Deposit), which shall be maintained in a separate non-interest bearing collateral account, in accordance with the terms of the Participant Agreement. An additional amount of cash shall be required to be deposited with the Trust, pending delivery of the missing Deposit Securities to the extent necessary to maintain the Additional Cash Deposit with the Trust in an amount at least equal to 115% of the daily marked to market value of the missing Deposit Securities, in accordance with the terms of the Participant Agreement. The Participant Agreement will permit the Trust to buy the
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missing Deposit Securities at any time. Authorized Participants will be liable to the Trust for all costs, expenses, dividends, income and taxes associated with missing Deposit Securities, including the costs incurred by the Trust in connection with any such purchases. These costs will be deemed to include the amount by which the actual purchase price of the Deposit Securities exceeds the market value of such Deposit Securities on the day the purchase order was deemed received by the Distributor plus the brokerage and related transaction costs associated with such purchases. The Trust will return any unused portion of the Additional Cash Deposit once all of the missing Deposit Securities have been properly received by the Custodian or purchased by the Trust and deposited into the Trust. The delivery of Creation Units so purchased will occur no later than the third Business Day following the day on which the purchase order is deemed received by the Distributor. A creation request is considered to be in proper form if all procedures set forth in the Participant Agreement, order form and this SAI are properly followed.
ACCEPTANCE OF ORDERS OF CREATION UNITS. The Trust reserves the absolute right to reject an order for Creation Units in respect of any Fund at its discretion, including, without limitation, if (a) the order is not in proper form or the Deposit Securities delivered do not consist of the securities that the Custodian specified; (b) the investor(s), upon obtaining the Shares ordered, would own 80% or more of the currently outstanding Shares of any Fund; (c) the Deposit Securities delivered are not as disseminated through the facilities of the Exchange for that date by the Custodian, as described above; (d) acceptance of the Deposit Securities would have certain adverse tax consequences to the Fund; (e) the acceptance of the Fund Deposit would, in the opinion of counsel, be unlawful; (f) the acceptance of the Fund Deposit would otherwise, in the discretion of the Trust or the Adviser, have an adverse effect on the Trust or the rights of beneficial owners; or (g) in the event that circumstances outside the control of the Trust, the Custodian, the Transfer Agent, the Distributor and/or the Adviser make it for all practical purposes not feasible to process orders for Creation Units. Examples of such circumstances include acts of God or public service or utility problems such as fires, floods, extreme weather conditions and power outages resulting in telephone, telecopy and computer failures; market conditions or activities causing trading halts; systems failures involving computer or other information systems affecting the Trust, the Custodian, the Transfer Agent, the Adviser, the Distributor, DTC, NSCC or any other participant in the creation process, and similar extraordinary events. The Distributor shall communicate to the Authorized Participant its rejection of the order. The Trust, the Transfer Agent, the Custodian and the Distributor are under no duty, however, to give notification of any defects or irregularities in the delivery of Fund Deposits nor shall either of them incur any liability for the failure to give any such notification. The Trust, the Transfer Agent, the Custodian and the Distributor shall not be liable for the rejection of any purchase order for Creation Units.
All questions as to the number of shares of each security in the Deposit Securities and the validity, form, eligibility and acceptance for deposit of any securities to be delivered shall be determined by the Trust, and the Trusts determination shall be final and binding.
CREATION TRANSACTION FEE. Investors will be required to pay a fixed creation transaction fee of $500. An additional charge of up to three (3) times the fixed transaction fee (expressed as a percentage of the value of the Deposit Securities) may be imposed for (i) creations effected outside the Clearing Process; (ii) non-standard orders; and (iii) cash creations, for a total charge of up to $2,000. Investors are responsible for the costs of transferring the securities constituting the Deposit Securities to the account of the Trust.
REDEMPTION. Shares may be redeemed only in Creation Units at their net asset value next determined after receipt of a redemption request in proper form by the Fund through the Transfer Agent and only on a Business Day. EXCEPT UPON LIQUIDATION OF A FUND, THE TRUST WILL NOT REDEEM SHARES IN AMOUNTS LESS THAN CREATION UNITS. Investors must accumulate enough Shares in the secondary market to constitute a Creation Unit in order to have such Shares redeemed by the Trust. There can be no assurance, however, that there will be sufficient liquidity in the public trading market at any time to permit assembly of a Creation Unit. Investors should expect to incur brokerage and other costs in connection with assembling a sufficient number of Shares to constitute a redeemable Creation Unit.
With respect to each Fund, the Custodian, through the NSCC, makes available immediately prior to the opening of business on the Exchange (currently 9:30 a.m., Eastern time) on each Business Day, the Fund Securities that will be applicable (subject to possible amendment or correction) to redemption requests received in proper form (as defined below) on that day. Fund Securities received on redemption may not be identical to Deposit Securities which are applicable to purchases of Creation Units.
Unless cash redemptions are available or specified for a Fund, the redemption proceeds for a Creation Unit generally consist of Fund Securities as announced by the Custodian on the Business Day of the request for redemption received in proper form plus cash in an amount equal to the difference between the net asset value of the Shares being redeemed, as next determined after a receipt of a request in proper form, and the value of the Fund Securities (the Cash Redemption Amount), less a fixed redemption transaction fee of $500. In the event that the Fund Securities have a value greater than the net asset value of the Shares, a compensating cash payment equal to the differential is required to be made by or through an Authorized Participant by the redeeming shareholder.
REDEMPTION TRANSACTION FEE. A fixed transaction fee of $500 is applicable to each redemption transaction regardless of the number of Creation Units redeemed in the transaction. An additional charge of up to three (3) times the fixed transaction fee (for a total charge of up to $2,000) may be charged with respect to (i) transactions effected outside the Clearing Process; (ii) non-standard orders; and (iii) in the limited circumstances specified in which any cash may be used in lieu of securities to redeem Creation Units.
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PROCEDURES FOR REDEMPTION OF CREATION UNITS. Orders to redeem Creation Units must be submitted in proper form to the Transfer Agent prior to the time as set forth in the Participant Agreement and/or applicable order form. A redemption request is considered to be in proper form if all procedures set forth in the Participant Agreement, order form and this SAI are properly followed. If the Transfer Agent does not receive the investors Shares through DTCs facilities by the times and pursuant to the other terms and conditions set forth in the Participant Agreement, the redemption request shall be rejected.
The Authorized Participant must transmit the request for redemption, in the form required by the Trust, to the Transfer Agent in accordance with procedures set forth in the Participant Agreement and in accordance with the applicable order form. Investors should be aware that their particular broker may not have executed a Participant Agreement, and that, therefore, requests to redeem Creation Units may have to be placed by the investors broker through an Authorized Participant who has executed a Participant Agreement. Investors making a redemption request should be aware that such request must be in the form specified by such Authorized Participant. Investors making a request to redeem Creation Units should allow sufficient time to permit proper submission of the request by an Authorized Participant and transfer of the Shares to the Trusts Transfer Agent; such investors should allow for the additional time that may be required to effect redemptions through their banks, brokers or other financial intermediaries if such intermediaries are not Authorized Participants.
An Authorized Participant submitting a redemption request is deemed to represent to the Trust that it (or its client) (i) owns outright or has full legal authority and legal beneficial right to tender for redemption the requisite number of Shares to be redeemed and can receive the entire proceeds of the redemption, and (ii) the Shares to be redeemed have not been loaned or pledged to another party nor are they the subject of a repurchase agreement, securities lending agreement or such other arrangement which would preclude the delivery of such Shares to the Trust. The Trust reserves the right to verify these representations at its discretion, but will typically require verification with respect to a redemption request to a Fund in connection with higher levels of redemption activity and/or short interest in the Fund. If the Authorized Participant, upon receipt of a verification request, does not provide sufficient verification of its representations as determined by the Trust, the redemption request will not be considered to have been received in proper form and may be rejected by the Trust.
Deliveries of redemption proceeds generally will be made within three business days.
In addition, a Shareholder may request a redemption in cash which the Fund may, in its sole discretion, permit. In either case, the Shareholder will receive a cash payment equal to the net asset value of its Shares based on the net asset value of Shares of the relevant Fund next determined after the redemption request is received in proper form (minus a redemption transaction fee and additional charge for requested cash redemptions specified above, to offset the Trusts brokerage and other transaction costs associated with the disposition of Fund Securities). The Fund may also, in its sole discretion, upon request of a shareholder, provide such redeemer a portfolio of securities that differs from the exact composition of the Fund Securities but does not differ in net asset value.
Redemptions of Shares for Fund Securities will be subject to compliance with applicable federal and state securities laws and each Fund (whether or not it otherwise permits cash redemptions) reserves the right to redeem Creation Units for cash to the extent that the Trust could not lawfully deliver specific Fund Securities upon redemptions or could not do so without first registering the Fund Securities under such laws. An Authorized Participant or an investor for which it is acting subject to a legal restriction with respect to a particular security included in the Fund Securities applicable to the redemption of a Creation Unit may be paid an equivalent amount of cash. The Authorized Participant may request the redeeming Shareholder to complete an order form or to enter into agreements with respect to such matters as compensating cash payment, beneficial ownership of Shares or delivery instructions.
The right of redemption may be suspended or the date of payment postponed with respect to any Fund (1) for any period during which the NYSE is closed (other than customary weekend and holiday closings); (2) for any period during which trading on the NYSE is suspended or restricted; (3) for any period during which an emergency exists as a result of which disposal of the Shares of the Fund or determination of the net asset value of the Shares is not reasonably practicable; or (4) in such other circumstance as is permitted by the SEC.
REQUIRED EARLY ACCEPTANCE OF ORDERS. Notwithstanding the foregoing, as described in the Participant Agreement and the applicable order form, Authorized Participants may be notified that the cut-off time for an order may be earlier on a particular Business Day.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
The following information supplements and should be read in conjunction with the sections in the Prospectus entitled SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT PURCHASES, SALES AND TAXES and ADDITIONAL PURCHASE AND SALE INFORMATION.
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Net asset value per Share for each Fund of the Trust is computed by dividing the value of the net assets of such Fund ( i.e ., the value of its total assets less total liabilities) by the total number of Shares outstanding. Expenses and fees, including the management, administration and distribution fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for purposes of determining net asset value. The net asset value of each Fund is calculated by the Custodian and determined as of the close of the regular trading session on the NYSE (ordinarily 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day that such exchange is open.
In computing a Funds net asset value per Share, the Funds securities holdings are based on the market price of the securities, which generally means a valuation obtained from an exchange or other market (or based on a price quotation or other equivalent indication of value supplied by an exchange or other market) or a valuation obtained from an independent pricing service. In the case of shares of funds that are not traded on an exchange ( e.g., mutual funds), last sale price means such funds published net asset value per share. Other portfolio securities and assets for which market quotations are not readily available are valued based on fair value as determined in good faith by the Oversight Committee in accordance with procedures adopted by the Board. In these cases, a Funds net asset value may reflect certain portfolio securities fair values rather than their market prices. Fair value pricing involves subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value determination for a security is materially different than the value that could be realized upon the sale of the security. In addition, fair value pricing could result in a difference between the prices used to calculate a Funds net asset value and the prices used by the Select Sector Index. This may result in a difference between a Funds performance and the performance of the Select Sector Index.
The following information supplements and should be read in conjunction with the section in the Prospectus entitled DISTRIBUTIONS.
GENERAL POLICIES. Dividends from net investment income, if any, are declared and paid quarterly for each Fund. Distributions of net realized securities gains, if any, generally are declared and paid once a year, but the Trust may make distributions on a more frequent basis for certain Funds to improve index tracking or to comply with the distribution requirements of the Internal Revenue Code, in all events in a manner consistent with the provisions of the 1940 Act. In addition, the Trust intends to distribute at least annually amounts representing the full dividend yield on the underlying portfolio securities of each Fund, net of expenses of such Fund, as if such Fund owned such underlying portfolio securities for the entire dividend period. As a result, some portion of each distribution may result in a return of capital for tax purposes for shareholders.
Dividends and other distributions on Shares are distributed, as described below, on a pro rata basis to Beneficial Owners of such Shares. Dividend payments are made through DTC Participants and Indirect Participants to Beneficial Owners then of record with proceeds received from the Trust.
The Trust makes additional distributions to the extent necessary (i) to distribute the entire annual taxable income of the Trust, plus any net capital gains and (ii) to avoid imposition of the excise tax imposed by Section 4982 of the Internal Revenue Code. Management of the Trust reserves the right to declare special dividends if, in its reasonable discretion, such action is necessary or advisable to preserve the status of each Fund as a RIC or to avoid imposition of income or excise taxes on undistributed income.
DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT. Broker dealers, at their own discretion, may also offer a dividend reinvestment service under which Shares are purchased in the secondary market at current market prices. Investors should consult their broker dealer for further information regarding any dividend reinvestment service offered by such broker dealer.
The following information also supplements and should be read in conjunction with the section in the Prospectus entitled ADDITIONAL TAX INFORMATION.
Each Fund intends to qualify for and to elect treatment as a separate RIC under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code. As such, each Fund should not be subject to federal income tax on its net investment income and capital gains, if any, to the extent that it timely distributes such income and capital gains to its shareholders. In order to be taxable as a RIC, a Fund must distribute annually to its shareholders at least 90% of its net investment income (generally net investment income plus the excess of net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses) and at least 90% of its net tax exempt interest income, for each tax year, if any, to its shareholders (Distribution Requirement) and also must meet several additional requirements. Among these requirements are the following: (i) at least 90% of the Funds gross income each taxable year must be derived from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income derived with respect to its
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business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies, and net income derived from an interest in qualified publicly traded partnerships; (ii) at the end of each fiscal quarter of the Funds taxable year, at least 50% of the market value of its total assets must be represented by cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, securities of other RICs and other securities, with such other securities limited, in respect to any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of the Funds total assets or more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (iii) at the end of each fiscal quarter of the Funds taxable year, not more than 25% of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities (other than U.S. government securities or securities of other RICs) of any one issuer or the securities of two or more issuers engaged in the same, similar, or related trades or businesses if the Fund owns at least 20% of the voting power of such issuers, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships.
Each Fund is treated as a separate corporation for federal income tax purposes. Each Fund therefore is considered to be a separate entity in determining its treatment under the rules for RICs described herein and in the Prospectus. Losses in one Fund do not offset gains in another and the requirements (other than certain organizational requirements) for qualifying RIC status are determined at the Fund level rather than at the Trust level.
If any Fund fails to qualify as a RIC for any taxable year, it will be taxable at regular corporate rates. In such an event, all distributions (including capital gains distributions) generally will be taxable as ordinary dividends to the extent of the Funds current and accumulated earnings and profits, subject to the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders and the lower tax rates applicable to qualified dividend income distributed to individuals. The Board reserves the right not to maintain the qualification of a Fund as a RIC if it determines such course of action to be beneficial to shareholders.
Although each Fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and its capital gains for each taxable year, a Fund will be subject to federal income tax to the extent any such income or gains are not distributed. If a Funds distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to shareholders. A return of capital distribution generally will not be taxable to the extent of a shareholders basis in its shares, but will reduce the shareholders basis and result in a higher capital gain or lower capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
A Fund will be subject to a 4% excise tax on certain undistributed income if it does not distribute to its shareholders in each calendar year at least 98% of its ordinary income for the calendar year plus 98.2% of its capital gain net income for the twelve months ended October 31 of such year. Each Fund intends to declare and distribute dividends and distributions in the amounts and at the times necessary to avoid the application of this 4% excise tax.
As a result of tax requirements, the Trust on behalf of each Fund has the right to reject an order to purchase Shares if the purchaser (or group of purchasers) would, upon obtaining the Shares so ordered, own 80% or more of the outstanding Shares of a given Fund and if, pursuant to section 351 of the Internal Revenue Code, the respective Fund would have a basis in the Deposit Securities different from the market value of such securities on the date of deposit. The Trust also has the right to require information necessary to determine beneficial Share ownership for purposes of the 80% determination and/or will require certain representations from the Authorized Participant to verify the foregoing.
Dividends and interest received by a Fund may give rise to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries. Tax treaties between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes.
A Fund may invest in complex securities. These investments may be subject to numerous special and complex rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by the Fund are treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the recognition of income to a Fund and/or defer a Funds ability to recognize losses. In turn, these rules may affect the amount, timing or character of the income distributed to you by the Fund. Consult your personal tax advisor regarding the application of these rules.
Each Fund is required for federal income tax purposes to mark-to-market and recognize as income for each taxable year its net unrealized gains and losses on certain futures contracts as of the end of the year as well as those actually realized during the year. Gain or loss from futures and options contracts on broad-based indexes required to be marked to market will be 60% long-term and 40% short-term capital gain or loss. Application of this rule may alter the timing and character of distributions to shareholders. A Fund may be required to defer the recognition of losses on futures contracts, options contracts and swaps to the extent of any unrecognized gains on offsetting positions held by the Fund. It is anticipated that any net gain realized from the closing out of futures or options contracts will be considered gain from the sale of securities and therefore will be qualifying income for purposes of the 90% requirement. Each Fund distributes to shareholders at least annually any net capital gains which have been recognized for federal income tax purposes, including unrealized gains at the end of a Funds fiscal year on futures or options transactions. Such distributions are combined with distributions of capital gains realized on a Funds other investments and shareholders are advised on the nature of the distributions.
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As a result of entering into swap contracts, a Fund may make or receive periodic net payments. Such Fund may also make or receive a payment when a swap is terminated prior to maturity through an assignment of the swap or other closing transaction. Periodic net payments, if positive, will generally constitute taxable ordinary income and, if negative, will reduce net income, while the termination of a swap will generally result in capital gain or loss (which will be a long-term capital gain or loss if a Fund has been a party to the swap for more than one year). The tax treatment of many types of credit default swaps is uncertain and may affect the amount, timing or character of the income distributed to you by the Fund.
Each Fund intends to distribute annually to its shareholders substantially all of its investment company taxable income and any net realized long-term capital gains in excess of net realized short-term capital losses (including any capital loss carryovers). Each Fund will report to shareholders annually the amounts of dividends received from ordinary income, the amount of distributions received from capital gains and, in the case of a non-corporate shareholder, the portion of dividends which may qualify for the dividends received deduction, if any. A portion of the dividends received from a Fund may be treated as qualified dividend income (eligible for the reduced maximum rate to individuals of 20% (a lower percentage for individuals in lower tax brackets)) to the extent that a Fund receives qualified dividend income. Qualified dividend income includes, in general, subject to certain holding period requirements and other requirements, dividend income from certain U.S. and foreign corporations. A Fund may derive capital gains and losses in connection with the sale or other disposition of its portfolio securities. Distributions from net short-term capital gains will be taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. Distributions from net long-term gains will be taxable to you at long-term capital gains rates, regardless of how long you have held your shares in a Fund. Long-term capital gains are currently taxed at a maximum rate of 20% for non-corporate shareholders.
In general, a sale of shares results in capital gain or loss, and for individual shareholders, is taxable at a federal rate dependent upon the length of time the shares were held. A redemption of a shareholders Fund Shares is normally treated as a sale for tax purposes. Fund Shares held for a period of one year or less at the time of such sale or redemption will, for tax purposes, generally result in short-term capital gains or losses and those held for more than one year will generally result in long-term capital gains or losses. Under current law, the maximum tax rate on long-term capital gains available to non-corporate shareholders generally is 20%. Gain or loss on the sale or redemption of Shares in each Fund is measured by the difference between the amount received and the adjusted tax basis of the Shares. Shareholders should keep records of investments made (including Shares acquired through reinvestment of dividends and distribution) so they can compute the adjusted tax basis of their Shares.
A loss realized on a sale or exchange of Shares of a Fund may be disallowed if a shareholder reinvests in that Funds Shares or acquires other substantially identical shares (whether through the automatic reinvestment of dividends or otherwise) within a sixty-one (61) day period beginning thirty (30) days before and ending thirty (30) days after the date that the Shares are disposed of. In such a case, the basis of the Shares acquired must be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss. Any loss upon the sale or exchange of Shares held for six (6) months or less is treated as long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends received by the shareholders on such shares.
Distribution of ordinary income and capital gains may also be subject to foreign state and local taxes depending on a shareholders circumstances.
Distributions in cash that are reinvested in additional Shares of a Fund through the means of a dividend reinvestment service, if offered by your broker-dealer, will nevertheless be taxable dividends to shareholders acquiring such additional Shares to the same extent as if such dividends had been received in cash.
Dividends to the extent derived from investment income and short-term capital gain (other than interest-related dividends or qualified short-term capital gain dividends described below) paid by a Fund to shareholders who are nonresident aliens or foreign entities will be subject to a 30% United States withholding tax unless a reduced rate of withholding or a withholding exemption is provided under applicable law or an applicable tax treaty or unless such income is effectively connected with such persons or entitys conduct of a U.S. trade or business. Nonresident shareholders are urged to consult their own tax advisors concerning the applicability of the United States withholding tax and the proper withholding form(s) to be submitted to a Fund. A non-U.S. shareholder who fails to provide an appropriate IRS Form W-8 (or applicable successor form) may be subject to backup withholding at the appropriate rate.
For taxable years of the Funds beginning before January 1, 2015, the Funds may, under certain circumstances, designate all or a portion of a dividend as an interest-related dividend or a short-term capital gain dividend. An interest-related dividend that is received by a nonresident alien or foreign entity generally would be exempt from the 30% U.S. withholding tax, provided certain other requirements are met. A short term capital gain dividend that is received by a nonresident alien or foreign entity generally would be exempt from the 30% U.S. withholding tax, unless the foreign person is a nonresident alien individual present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the taxable year. The Funds do not expect to pay significant amounts of interest-related dividends. Nonresident shareholders are urged to consult their own tax advisors concerning the applicability of the U.S. withholding tax. Nonresident shareholders that own, either directly or indirectly, more than 5% of a class of Shares of a Fund that holds investments in United States real property interests are urged to consult their own tax advisors concerning special tax rules that may apply to their investment in Shares.
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In addition, withholding at a rate of 30% will be required on dividends in respect of, and after December 31, 2016, gross proceeds from the sale of, our Shares held by or through certain foreign financial institutions (including investment funds), unless the institutions enter into an agreement with the IRS to report, on an annual basis, information with respect to shares in, and accounts maintained by, the institutions to the extent such shares or accounts are held by certain United States persons or by certain non-U.S. entities that are wholly or partially owned by United States persons. Accordingly, the entity through which our Shares are held will affect the determination of whether such withholding is required. Similarly, dividends in respect of, and gross proceeds from the sale of, our Shares held by an investor that is a non-financial non-U.S equity will be subject to withholding at a rate of 30%, unless such entity either (i) certifies to us that such entity does not have any substantial United States owners or (ii) provides certain information regarding the entitys substantial United States owners, which we will in turn provide to the IRS. Foreign investors are encouraged to consult with their tax advisers regarding the possible implications of the legislation on their investment in our Shares.
Certain tax-exempt shareholders, including qualified pension plans, individual retirement accounts, salary deferral arrangements, 401(k)s, and other tax-exempt entities, generally are exempt from federal income taxation except with respect to their unrelated business taxable income (UBTI). Under current law, a Fund generally serves to block UBTI from being realized by their tax-exempt shareholders. However, notwithstanding the foregoing, a tax-exempt shareholder could realize UBTI by virtue of its investment in a Fund. For example, if (i) the Fund invests in REITs that hold residual interests in real estate mortgage investment conduits (REMICs) or (ii) shares in the Fund constitute debt-financed property in the hands of the tax-exempt shareholder within the meaning of Code Section 514(b), a tax-exempt shareholder could realize UBTI by virtue of its investment in the Fund. There is no restriction preventing a Fund from holding investments in REITs that hold residual interests in REMICs, and a Fund may do so. Prospective shareholders, especially charitable remainder trusts which may be subject to a 100% excise tax on their amount of UBTI, are strongly encouraged to consult with their tax advisors regarding these issues.
A Fund will be required in certain cases to withhold at applicable withholding rates and remit to the United States Treasury the amount withheld on amounts payable to any shareholder who (1) has provided a Fund either an incorrect tax identification number or no number at all, (2) who is subject to backup withholding by the Internal Revenue Service for failure to properly report payments of interest or dividends, (3) who has failed to certify to a Fund that such shareholder is not subject to backup withholding, or (4) has not certified that such shareholder is a U.S. person (including a U.S. resident alien).
The foregoing discussion is a summary only and is not intended as a substitute for careful tax planning. Purchasers of Shares should consult their own tax advisors as to the tax consequences of investing in such Shares, including under state, local and other tax laws. Finally, the foregoing discussion is based on applicable provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, regulations, judicial authority and administrative interpretations in effect on the date hereof. Changes in applicable authority could materially affect the conclusions discussed above, and such changes often occur.
REPORTABLE TRANSACTIONS
Under promulgated Treasury regulations, if a shareholder recognizes a loss on disposition of a Funds Shares of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate shareholder, the shareholder must file with the IRS a disclosure statement on Form 8886. Direct shareholders of portfolio securities are in many cases excepted from this reporting requirement, but under current guidance, shareholders of a RIC are not excepted. Future guidance may extend the current exception from this reporting requirement to shareholders of most or all regulated investment companies. In addition, significant penalties may be imposed for the failure to comply with the reporting requirements. The fact that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of whether the taxpayers treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should consult their tax advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual circumstances.
INVESTMENT BY AN UNDERTAKING FOR COLLECTIVE INVESTMENT IN TRANSFERABLE SECURITIES
The Adviser has reviewed the investment characteristics and limitations of each Fund and believes that, as of September 30, 2015, each Fund qualifies as an undertaking for collective investment (UCI) for purposes of the Luxembourg law of 17 December 2010. However, an Undertaking for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities should consult its own counsel regarding the qualification of a Fund as a UCI before investing in the Fund.
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CAPITAL STOCK AND SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
Each Fund issues Shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.01 per Share. The Board may designate additional Select Sector SPDR Funds.
Each Share issued by the Trust has a pro rata interest in the assets of the corresponding Fund. Shares have no preemptive, exchange, subscription or conversion rights and are freely transferable. Each Share is entitled to participate equally in dividends and distributions declared by the Board with respect to the relevant Fund, and in the net distributable assets of such Fund on liquidation.
Each Share has one vote with respect to matters upon which a shareholder vote is required consistent with the requirements of the 1940 Act and the rules promulgated thereunder. Shares of all Select Sector SPDR Funds vote together as a single class, except that if the matter being voted on affects only a particular Select Sector SPDR Fund, it will be voted on only by that Select Sector SPDR Fund, and if a matter affects a particular Select Sector SPDR Fund differently from other Select Sector SPDR Funds, that Select Sector SPDR Fund will vote separately on such matter. Under Massachusetts law, the Trust is not required to hold an annual meeting of shareholders unless required to do so under the 1940 Act. The policy of the Trust is not to hold an annual meeting of shareholders unless required to do so under the 1940 Act. All Shares of the Trust (regardless of the Select Sector SPDR Fund) have noncumulative voting rights for the election of Trustees. Under Massachusetts law, Trustees of the Trust may be removed by vote of the shareholders.
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of a business trust may, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for obligations of the Trust. However, the Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Trust, requires that Trust obligations include such disclaimer, and provides for indemnification and reimbursement of expenses out of the Trusts property for any shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself would be unable to meet its obligations. Given the above limitations on shareholder personal liability, and the nature of each Funds assets and operations, the risk to shareholders of personal liability is believed to be remote.
Shareholder inquiries may be made by writing to the Trust, c/o the Distributor, ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., at 1290 Broadway, Suite 1100, Denver, Colorado 80203.
COUNSEL AND INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Clifford Chance US LLP, 31 West 52nd Street, New York, New York 10119, serves as counsel to the Trust. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 125 High Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110, serves as the independent registered public accounting firm to the Trust.
The Funds had not commenced operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore do not have financial information to report for the Trusts September 30, 2015 fiscal year end.
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March 2015
FM Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles
SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (SSGA FM), one of the industrys largest institutional asset managers, is the investment management arm of State Street Bank and Trust Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation, a leading provider of financial services to institutional investors. As an investment manager, SSGA FM has discretionary proxy voting authority over most of its client accounts, and SSGA FM votes these proxies in the manner that we believe will most likely protect and promote the long-term economic value of client investments as described in the SSGA FM Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles.
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SSGA FM maintains Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines for select markets, including: the US, the EU, the UK, Australia, emerging markets and Japan. International markets that do not have specific guidelines are reviewed and voted consistent with our Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles; however, SSGA FM also endeavors to show sensitivity to local market practices when voting in these various markets.
SSGA FMs Approach to Proxy Voting and Issuer Engagement
At SSGA FM, we take our fiduciary duties as an asset manager very seriously. We have a dedicated team of corporate governance professionals who help us carry out our duties as a responsible investor. These duties include engaging with companies, developing and enhancing in-house corporate governance policies, analyzing corporate governance issues on a case-by-case basis at the company level, and exercising our voting rightsall to maximize shareholder value.
SSGA FMs Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles (the Principles) may take different perspectives on common governance issues that vary from one market to another and, likewise, engagement activity may take different forms in order to best achieve long-term engagement goals. We believe that proxy voting and engagement with portfolio companies is often the most direct and productive way shareholders can exercise their ownership rights, and taken together, we view these tools to be an integral part of the overall investment process.
We believe engagement and voting activity have a direct relationship. As a result, the integration of our engagement activities, while leveraging the exercise of our voting rights, provides a meaningful shareholder tool that we believe protects and enhances the long-term economic value of the holdings in our client accounts. SSGA FM maximizes its voting power and engagement by maintaining a centralized proxy voting and active ownership process covering all holdings, regardless of strategy. Despite the different investment views and objectives across SSGA FM, depending on the product or strategy, the fiduciary responsibilities of share ownership and voting for which SSGA FM has voting discretion are carried out with a single voice and objective.
The Principles support governance structures that we believe add to, or maximize shareholder value at the companies held in our clients portfolios. SSGA FM conducts issuer specific engagements with companies to discuss our principles, including sustainability related risks. In addition, we encourage issuers to find ways of increasing the amount of direct communication board members have with shareholders. We believe direct communication with executive board members and independent non-executive directors is critical to helping companies understand shareholder concerns. Conversely, where appropriate, we conduct collaborative engagement activities with multiple shareholders and communicate with company representatives about common concerns.
In conducting our engagements, SSGA FM also evaluates the various factors that play into the corporate governance framework of a country, including the macroeconomic conditions and broader political system, the quality of regulatory oversight, the enforcement of property and shareholder rights and the independence of the judiciary to name a few. SSGA FM understands that regulatory requirements and investor expectations relating to governance practices and engagement activities differ from country-to-country. As a result, SSGA FM engages with issuers, regulators, or both, depending on the market. SSGA FM also is a member of various investor associations that seek to address broader corporate governance related policy at the country level as well as issuer specific concerns at a company level.
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To help mitigate company specific risk, the team may collaborate with members of the active investment teams to engage with companies on corporate governance issues and address any specific concerns, or to get more information regarding shareholder items that are to be voted on at upcoming shareholder meetings. Outside of proxy voting season, SSGA FM conducts issuer specific engagements with companies covering various corporate governance and sustainability related topics.
The SSGA FM Governance Team uses a blend of quantitative and qualitative research and data to support screens to help identify issuers where active engagement may be necessary to protect and promote shareholder value. Issuer engagement may also be event driven, focusing on issuer specific corporate governance, sustainability concerns or wider industry related trends. SSGA FM also gives consideration to the size of our total position of the issuer in question and/or the potential negative governance, performance profile, and circumstance at hand. As a result, SSGA FM believes issuer engagement can take many forms and be triggered under numerous circumstances. The following methods represent how SSGA FM defines engagement methods:
Active
SSGA FM uses screening tools designed to capture a mix of company specific data including governance and sustainability profiles to help us focus our voting and engagement activity.
SSGA FM will actively seek direct dialogue with the board and management of companies we have identified through our screening processes. Such engagements may lead to further monitoring to ensure the company improves its governance or sustainability practices. In these cases, the engagement process represents the most meaningful opportunity for SSGA FM to protect long-term shareholder value from excessive risk due to poor governance and sustainability practices.
Recurring
SSGA FM has ongoing dialogue with its largest holdings on corporate governance and sustainability issues. SSGA FM maintains regular face-to-face meetings with these issuers, allowing SSGA FM to reinforce key tenets of good corporate governance and actively advise these issuers around concerns that SSGA FM feels may negatively impact long-term shareholder value.
Reactive
Reactive engagement is initiated by the issuers. SSGA FM routinely discusses specific voting issues and items with the issuer community. Reactive engagement is an opportunity to address not only voting items, but also a wide range of governance and sustainability issues.
SSGA FM has established an engagement protocol that further describes our approach to issuer engagement.
Measurement
Assessing the effectiveness of our issuer engagement process is often difficult. To limit the subjectivity of measuring our success we actively seek issuer feedback and monitor the actions issuers take post-engagement to identify tangible changes. By doing so, we are able to establish indicators to gauge how issuers respond to our concerns and to what degree these responses satisfy our requests. It is also important to note that successful engagement activity can be measured over differing time periods depending on the facts and circumstances involved. Engagements can last as short as a single meeting or span multiple years.
Depending on the issue and whether the engagement activity is reactive, recurring, or active, engagement with issuers can take the form of written communication, conference calls, or face-to-face meetings.SSGA FM believes active engagement is best conducted directly with company management or board members. Collaborative engagement, where multiple shareholders communicate with company representatives, can serve as a potential forum for issues that are not identified by SSGA FM as requiring active engagement, such as shareholder conference calls.
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Proxy Voting Procedure
Oversight
The SSGA FM Corporate Governance Team is responsible for developing and implementing the Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines (the Guidelines), case-by-case voting items, issuer engagement activities, and research and analysis of governance-related issues. The implementation of the Guidelines is overseen by the SSGA Global Proxy Review Committee (SSGA PRC), a committee of investment, compliance and legal professionals, who provide guidance on proxy issues as described in greater detail below. Oversight of the proxy voting process is ultimately the responsibility of the SSGA Investment Committee. The SSGA Investment Committee reviews and approves amendments to the Guidelines. The SSGA PRC reports to the SSGA Investment Committee, and may refer certain significant proxy items to that committee.
Proxy Voting Process
In order to facilitate SSGA FMs proxy voting process, SSGA FM retains Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (ISS), a firm with expertise in proxy voting and corporate governance. SSGA FM utilizes ISSs services in three ways: (1) as SSGA FMs proxy voting agent (providing SSGA FM with vote execution and administration services); (2) for applying the Guidelines; and (3) as providers of research and analysis relating to general corporate governance issues and specific proxy items.
The SSGA FM Corporate Governance Team reviews the Guidelines with ISS on an annual basis or on a case-by-case basis as needed. On most routine proxy voting items (e.g., ratification of auditors), ISS will affect the proxy votes in accordance with the Guidelines.
In other cases, the Corporate Governance Team will evaluate the proxy solicitation to determine how to vote based on facts and circumstances, consistent with the Principles, and the accompanying Guidelines, that seek to maximize the value of our client accounts.
In some instances, the Corporate Governance Team may refer significant issues to the SSGA PRC for a determination of the proxy vote. In addition, in determining whether to refer a proxy vote to the SSGA PRC, the Corporate Governance. Team will consider whether a material conflict of interest exists between the interests of our client and those of SSGA FM or its affiliates (as explained in greater detail in our Conflict of Interest Policy).
SSGA FM votes in all markets where it is feasible; however, SSGA FM may refrain from voting meetings when power of attorney documentation is required, where voting will have a material impact on our ability to trade the security, where issuer-specific special documentation is required or where various market or issuer certifications are required. SSGA FM is unable to vote proxies when certain custodians, used by our clients, do not offer proxy voting in a jurisdiction, or when they charge a meeting specific fee in excess of the typical custody service agreement.
Conflict of Interest
See SSGAs standalone Conflicts of Interest Policy.
Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles
Directors and Boards
The election of directors is one of the most important fiduciary duties SSGA FM performs as a shareholder. SSGA FM believes that well-governed companies can protect and pursue shareholder interests better and withstand the challenges of an uncertain economic environment. As such, SSGA FM seeks to vote director elections in a way which we, as a fiduciary, believe will maximize the long-term value of each portfolios holdings.
Principally, a board acts on behalf of shareholders by protecting their interests and preserving their rights. This concept establishes the standard by which board and director performance is measured. To achieve this fundamental principle, the role of the board, in SSGA FMs view, is to carry out its responsibilities in the best long-term interest of the company and its shareholders. An independent and effective board oversees management, provides guidance on strategic matters, selects the CEO and other senior executives, creates a succession plan for the board and management, provides risk oversight and assesses the performance of the CEO and management. In contrast, management implements the business and capital allocation strategies and runs the companys day-to-day operations. As part of SSGA FMs engagement process, SSGA FM routinely discusses the importance of these responsibilities with the boards of issuers.
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SSGA FM believes the quality of a board is a measure of director independence, director succession planning, board evaluations and refreshment and company governance practices. In voting to elect nominees, SSGA FM considers many factors. SSGA FM believes independent directors are crucial to good corporate governance and help management establish sound corporate governance policies and practices. A sufficiently independent board will effectively monitor management, maintain appropriate governance practices, and perform oversight functions necessary to protect shareholder interests. SSGA FM also believes the right mix of skills, independence and qualifications among directors provides boards with the knowledge and direct experience to deal with risks and operating structures that are often unique and complex from one industry to another.
Accounting and Audit Related Issues
SSGA FM believes audit committees are critical and necessary as part of the boards risk oversight role. The audit committee is responsible for setting out an internal audit function to provide robust audit and internal control systems designed to effectively manage potential and emerging risks to the companys operations and strategy. SSGA FM believes audit committees should have independent directors as members, and SSGA FM will hold the members of the audit committee responsible for overseeing the management of the audit function.
The disclosure and availability of reliable financial statements in a timely manner is imperative for the investment process. As a result, board oversight of the internal controls and the independence of the audit process are essential if investors are to rely on financial statements. Also, it is important for the audit committee to appoint external auditors who are independent from management as we expect auditors to provide assurance as of a companys financial condition.
Capital Structure, Reorganization and Mergers
The ability to raise capital is critical for companies to carry out strategy, grow and achieve returns above their cost of capital. The approval of capital raising activities is fundamental to a shareholders ability to monitor the amounts of proceeds and to ensure capital is deployed efficiently. Altering the capital structure of a company is a critical decision for boards and in making such a critical decision, SSGA FM believes the company should have a well explained business rationale that is consistent with corporate strategy and not overly dilute its shareholders.
Mergers or reorganizing the structure of a company often involve proposals relating to reincorporation, restructurings, mergers, liquidations, and other major changes to the corporation.
Proposals that are in the best interests of the shareholders, demonstrated by enhancing share value or improving the effectiveness of the companys operations, will be supported. In evaluating mergers and acquisitions, SSGA FM considers the adequacy of the consideration and the impact of the corporate governance provisions to shareholders. In all cases, SSGA FM uses its discretion in order to maximize shareholder value.
Occasionally, companies add anti-takeover provisions that reduce the chances of a potential acquirer making an offer, or reducing the likelihood of a successful offer. SSGA FM does not support proposals that reduce shareholders rights, entrench management or reduce the likelihood of shareholders right to vote on reasonable offers.
Compensation
SSGA FM considers the boards responsibility to include setting the appropriate level of executive compensation. Despite the differences among the types of plans and the awards possible, there is a simple underlying philosophy that guides SSGA FMs analysis of executive compensation; SSGA FM believes that there should be a direct relationship between executive compensation and company performance over the long-term.
Shareholders should have the opportunity to assess whether pay structures and levels are aligned with business performance. When assessing remuneration reports, SSGA FM considers factors such as adequate disclosure of different remuneration elements, absolute and relative pay levels, peer selection and benchmarking, the mix of long-term and short-term incentives, alignment of pay structures with shareholder interests, as well as with corporate strategy and performance. SSGA FM may oppose remuneration reports where pay seems misaligned with shareholders interests. SSGA FM may also consider executive compensation practices when re-electing members of the remuneration committee.
SSGA FM recognizes that compensation policies and practices are unique from market to market; often with significant differences between the level of disclosures, the amount and forms of compensation paid, and the ability of shareholders to approve executive compensation practices. As a result, our ability to assess the appropriateness of executive compensation is often dependent on market practices and laws.
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Environmental and Social Issues
As a fiduciary, SSGA FM considers the financial and economic implications of environmental and social issues first and foremost. Environmental and social factors may not only have an impact on the reputation of companies but may also represent significant operational risks and costs to business. Well-developed environmental and social management systems can generate efficiencies and enhance productivity, both of which impact shareholder value in the long-term.
SSGA FM encourages companies to be transparent about the environmental and social risks and opportunities they face and adopt robust policies and processes to manage such issues. In our view, companies that manage all risks and consider opportunities related to environmental and social issues are able to adapt faster to changes and appear to be better placed to achieve sustainable competitive advantage in the long-term. Similarly, companies with good risk management systems, which include environmental and social policies, have a stronger position relative to their peers to manage risk and change, which could be the result of anything from regulation and litigation, physical threats (severe weather, climate change), economic trends to shifts in consumer behavior.
In their public reporting, we expect companies to disclose information on relevant management tools and material environmental and social performance metrics. We support efforts by companies to demonstrate how sustainability fits into operations and business activities. SSGA FMs team of analysts evaluates these risks and shareholder proposals relating to them on an issuer by issuer basis; understanding that environmental and social risks can vary widely depending on a company, its industry, operations, and geographic footprint. SSGA FM may also take action against the re-election of board members if we have serious concerns over ESG practices and the company has not been responsive to shareholder requests to amend them.
General/Routine
Although SSGA FM does not seek involvement in the day-to-day operations of an organization, SSGA FM recognizes the need for conscientious oversight and input into management decisions that may affect a companys value. SSGA FM supports proposals that encourage economically advantageous corporate practices and governance, while leaving decisions that are deemed to be routine or constitute ordinary business to management and the board of directors.
Securities on Loan
For funds where SSGA FM acts as trustee, SSGA FM may recall securities in instances where SSGA FM believes that a particular vote will have a material impact on the fund(s). Several factors shape this process. First, SSGA FM must receive notice of the vote in sufficient time to recall the shares on or before the record date. In many cases, SSGA FM does not receive timely notice, and is unable to recall the shares on or before the record date. Second, SSGA FM, exercising its discretion may recall shares if it believes the benefit of voting shares will outweigh the foregone lending income. This determination requires SSGA FM, with the information available at the time, to form judgments about events or outcomes that are difficult to quantify. Given past experience in this area, however, we believe that the recall of securities will rarely provide an economic benefit that outweighs the cost of the foregone lending income.
Reporting
Any client who wishes to receive information on how its proxies were voted should contact its SSGA FM relationship manager.
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State Street Global Advisors Worldwide Entities
Australia : State Street Global Advisors, Australia, Limited (ABN 42 003 914 225) is the holder of an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL Number 238276). Registered Office: Level 17, 420 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia. T: +612 9240 7600. F: +612 9240 7611. Belgium : State Street Global Advisors Belgium, Chausse de La Hulpe 120, 1000 Brussels, Belgium. T: +32 2 663 2036, F: +32 2 672 2077. SSGA Belgium is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Canada : State Street Global Advisors, Ltd., 770 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 1200 Montreal, Quebec, H3A 1G1, T: +514 282 2400 and 30 Adelaide Street East Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M5C 3G6. T: +647 775 5900. Dubai : State Street Bank and Trust Company (Representative Office), Boulevard Plaza 1, 17th Floor, Office 1703 Near Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa, P.O Box 26838, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. T: +971 (0)4 4372800. F: +971 (0)4 4372818. France : State Street Global Advisors France. Authorised and regulated by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. Registered with the Register of Commerce and Companies of Nanterre under the number: 412 052 680. Registered Office: Immeuble Défense Plaza, 23-25 rue Delarivière-Lefoullon, 92064 Paris La Défense Cedex, France. T: +33 1 44 45 40 00. F: +33 1 44 45 41 92. Germany : State Street Global Advisors GmbH, Brienner Strasse 59, D-80333 Munich. T: +49 (0)89 55878 100. F: +49 (0)89 55878 440. Hong Kong : State Street Global Advisors Asia Limited, 68/F, Two International Finance Centre, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong. T: +852 2103 0288. F: +852 2103 0200. Ireland : State Street Global Advisors Ireland Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Incorporated and registered in Ireland at Two Park Place, Upper Hatch Street, Dublin 2. Registered Number: 145221. Member of the Irish Association of Investment Managers. T: +353 (0)1 776 3000. F: +353 (0)1 776 3300. Italy : State Street Global Advisors Italy, Sede Secondaria di Milano, Via dei Bossi, 4 20121 Milan, Italy. T: +39 02 32066 100. F: +39 02 32066 155. State Street Global Advisors Italy is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Japan : State Street Global Advisors (Japan) Co., Ltd., 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6239. T: +813 4530 7380. Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Financial Bureau (Kinsho #345). Japan Investment Advisers Association, Investment Trusts Association Japan, Japan Securities Dealers Association. Netherlands : State Street Global Advisors Netherlands, Adam Smith Building, Thomas Malthusstraat 1-3, 1066 JR Amsterdam, Netherlands. T: +31 (0)20 7181701. State Street Global Advisors Netherlands is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Singapore : State Street Global Advisors Singapore Limited, 168, Robinson Road, #33-01 Capital Tower, Singapore 068912 (Company Registered Number: 200002719D). T: +65 6826 7500. F: +65 6826 7501. Switzerland : State Street Global Advisors AG, Beethovenstr. 19, CH-8027 Zurich. T: +41 (0)44 245 70 00. F: +41 (0)44 245 70 16. United Kingdom : State Street Global Advisors Limited. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England. Registered Number: 2509928. VAT Number: 5776591 81. Registered Office: 20 Churchill Place, Canay Wharf, London, E14 5HJ. T: +020 3395 6000. F: +020 3395 6350. United States : State Street Global Advisors, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111-2900. T: +617 664 7727.
The views expressed in this material are the views of SSGA Corporate Governance Team through the period ended February 28, 2015 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected.
Investing involves risk including the risk of loss of principal.
The whole or any part of this work may not be reproduced, copied or transmitted or any of its contents disclosed to third parties without SSGAs express written consent.
The information provided does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investors particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your tax and financial advisor. All material has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. There is no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information and State Street shall have no liability for decisions based on such information.
© 2015 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
ID3430-INST-5405 0315 Exp. Date: 02/29/2016
March 2015
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
United States
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.s (SSGA FM) US Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines outline our expectations of companies listed on stock exchanges in the US. This policy complements and should be read in conjunction with SSGA FMs Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles, which provide a detailed explanation of SSGA FMs approach to voting and engaging with companies and SSGAs Conflicts of Interest Policy.
SSGA FMs US Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines address areas including board structure, director tenure, audit related issues, capital structure, executive compensation, environmental, social and other governance related issues. Principally, we believe the primary responsibility of the board of directors is to preserve and enhance shareholder value and protect shareholder interests. In order to carry out their primary responsibilities, directors have to undertake activities that range from setting strategy, overseeing executive management to monitoring the risks that arise from a companys business, including risks related to sustainability issues. Further, good corporate governance necessitates the existence of effective internal controls and risk management systems, which should be governed by the board.
When voting and engaging with companies in global markets, SSGA FM considers market specific nuances in the manner that we believe will most likely protect and promote the long-term economic value of client investments. SSGA FM expects companies to observe the relevant laws and regulations of their respective markets as well as country specific best practice guidelines and corporate governance codes. When we feel that a countrys regulatory requirements do not address some of the key philosophical principles that SSGA FM believes are fundamental to its global voting guidelines, we may hold companies in such markets to our global standards.
In its analysis and research into corporate governance issues in the US, SSGA FM expects all companies to act in a transparent manner and provide detailed disclosure on board profiles, related-party transactions, executive compensation and other governance issues that impact shareholders long-term interests.
SSGA FMs Proxy Voting and Engagement Philosophy
In our view, corporate governance and sustainability issues are an integral part of the investment process. The Corporate Governance Team consists of investment professionals with expertise in corporate governance and company law, remuneration, accounting as well as environmental and social issues. SSGA FM has established robust corporate governance principles and practices that are backed with extensive analytical expertise to understand the complexities of the corporate governance landscape. SSGA FM engages with companies to provide insight on the principles and practices that drive our voting decisions. We also conduct proactive engagements to address significant shareholder concerns and environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in a manner consistent with maximizing shareholder value. The team works alongside members of SSGA FMs active investment teams; collaborating on issuer engagements and providing input on company specific fundamentals. SSGA FM is also a member of various investor associations that seek to address broader corporate governance related policy issues in the US.
SSGA FM is a signatory to the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investment (UNPRI) and is compliant with the UK Stewardship Code. We are committed to sustainable investing and are working to further integrate ESG principles into investment and corporate governance practices, where applicable and consistent with our fiduciary duty.
Directors and Boards
SSGA FM believes that a well constituted board of directors, with a good balance of skills, expertise and independence, provides the foundations for a well governed company. SSGA FM votes for the election/re-election of directors on a case-by-case basis after considering various factors including general market practice and availability of information on director skills and expertise. In principle, SSGA FM believes independent directors are crucial to good corporate governance and help management establish sound corporate governance policies and practices. A sufficiently independent board will most effectively monitor management and perform oversight functions necessary to protect shareholder interests.
Director related proposals at US companies include issues submitted to shareholders that deal with the composition of the board or with members of a corporations board of directors. In deciding which director nominee to support, SSGA FM considers numerous factors.
Director Elections
SSGA FMs director election policy focuses on companies governance profile to identify if a company demonstrates appropriate governance practices or if it exhibits negative governance practices. Factors SSGA FM considers when evaluating governance practices include, but are not limited to the following:
| | Shareholder rights; |
| | Board independence; and |
| | Board structure. |
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If a company demonstrates appropriate governance practices, SSGA FM believes a director should be classified as independent based on the relevant listing standards or local market practice standards. In such cases, the composition of the key oversight committees of a board should meet the minimum standards of independence. Accordingly, SSGA FM will vote against a nominee at a company with appropriate governance practices if the director is classified as non-independent under relevant listing standards or local market practice AND serves on a key committee of the board (compensation, audit, nominating or committees required to be fully independent by local market standards).
Conversely, if a company demonstrates negative governance practices, SSGA FM believes the classification standards for director independence should be elevated. In such circumstances, we will evaluate all director nominees based on the following classification standards:
| | Is the nominee an employee of or related to an employee of the issuer or its auditor; |
| | Does the nominee provide professional services to the issuer; |
| | Has the nominee attended an appropriate number of board meetings; or |
| | Has the nominee received non-board related compensation from the issuer. |
Where companies demonstrate negative governance practices, these stricter standards will apply not only to directors who are a member of a key committee but to all directors on the board as market practice permits. Accordingly, SSGA FM will vote against a nominee (with the exception of the CEO) where the board has inappropriate governance practices and is considered not independent based on the above independence criteria.
Additionally, SSGA FM may withhold votes from directors based on the following:
| | When overall average board tenure is excessive and/or individual director tenure is excessive. In assessing excessive tenure, SSGA FM gives consideration to factors such as the preponderance of long tenured directors, board refreshment practices, and classified board structures; |
| | When directors attend less than 75% of board meetings without appropriate explanation or providing reason for their failure to meet the attendance threshold; |
| | CEOs of a public company who sit on more than three public company boards; |
| | Director nominees who sit on more than six public company boards; |
| | Directors of companies that have ignored a shareholder proposal which received a majority of the shares outstanding at the last annual or special meeting, unless management submits the proposal(s) on the ballot as a binding management proposal, recommending shareholders vote for the particular proposal(s); |
| | Directors of companies have unilaterally adopted/ amended company by-laws that negatively impact SSGA FMs shareholder rights (such as fee-shifting, forum selection and exclusion service by-laws) without putting such amendments to a shareholder vote; |
| | Compensation committee members where there is a weak relationship between executive pay and performance over a five-year period; |
| | Audit committee members if non-audit fees exceed 50% of total fees paid to the auditors; and |
| | Directors who appear to have been remiss in their duties. |
Director Related Proposals
SSGA FM generally votes for the following director related proposals:
| | Discharge of board members duties, in the absence of pending litigation, regulatory investigation, charges of fraud or other indications of significant concern; |
| | Proposals to restore shareholders ability to remove directors with or without cause; |
| | Proposals that permit shareholders to elect directors to fill board vacancies; and |
| | Shareholder proposals seeking disclosure regarding the company, board, or compensation committees use of compensation consultants, such as company name, business relationship(s) and fees paid. |
SSGA FM generally votes against the following director related proposals:
| | Requirements that candidates for directorships own large amounts of stock before being eligible to be elected; |
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| | Proposals that relate to the transaction of other business as properly comes before the meeting, which extend blank check powers to those acting as proxy; and |
| | Proposals requiring two candidates per board seat. |
Majority Voting
SSGA FM will generally support a majority vote standard based on votes cast for the election of directors.
SSGA FM will generally vote to support amendments to bylaws that would require simple majority of voting shares (i.e. shares cast) to pass or repeal certain provisions.
Annual Elections
SSGA FM generally supports the establishment of annual elections of the board of directors. Consideration is given to the overall level of board independence and the independence of the key committees as well as whether there is a shareholders rights plan.
Cumulative Voting
SSGA FM does not support cumulative voting structures for the election of directors.
Separation Chair/CEO
SSGA FM analyzes proposals for the separation of Chair/CEO on a case-by-case basis taking into consideration numerous factors, including but not limited to, the appointment of and role played by a lead director, a companys performance and the overall governance structure of the company.
Proxy Access
SSGA FM will consider proposals relating to Proxy Access on a case-by-case basis.
SSGA FM will evaluate the companys specific circumstances, the impact of the proposal on the target company and its potential effect on shareholder value.
Considerations include but are not limited to the following:
| | The ownership thresholds and holding duration proposed in the resolution; |
| | The binding nature of the proposal; |
| | The number of directors that shareholders may be able to nominate each year; |
| | Company performance; |
| | Company governance structure; |
| | Shareholder rights; and |
| | Board performance. |
Age/Term Limits
Generally, SSGA FM will vote against age and term limits unless the company is found to have poor board refreshment and director succession practices and has a preponderance of non-executive directors with excessively long-tenures serving on the board.
Approve Remuneration of Directors
Generally, SSGA FM will support directors compensation, provided the amounts are not excessive relative to other issuers in the market or industry. In making our determination, we review whether the compensation is overly dilutive to existing shareholders.
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Indemnification
Generally, SSGA FM supports proposals to limit directors liability and/or expand indemnification and liability protection if he or she has not acted in bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
Classified Boards
SSGA FM generally supports annual elections for the board of directors.
Confidential Voting
SSGA FM will support confidential voting.
Board Size
SSGA FM will support proposals seeking to fix the board size or designate a range for the board size and will vote against proposals that give management the ability to alter the size of the board outside of a specified range without shareholder approval.
Audit Related Issues
Ratifying Auditors and Approving Auditor Compensation
SSGA FM supports the approval of auditors and auditor compensation provided that the issuer has properly disclosed audit and non-audit fees relative to market practice and the audit fees are not deemed excessive. SSGA FM deems audit fees to be excessive if the non-audit fees for the prior year constituted 50% or more of the total fees paid to the auditor. SSGA FM will support the disclosure of auditor and consulting relationships when the same or related entities are conducting both activities and will support the establishment of a selection committee responsible for the final approval of significant management consultant contract awards where existing firms are already acting in an auditing function. In circumstances where other fees include fees related to initial public offerings, bankruptcy emergence, and spin-offs, and the company makes public disclosure of the amount and nature of those fees which are determined to be an exception to the standard non-audit fee category, then such fees may be excluded from the non-audit fees considered in determining the ratio of non-audit to audit/audit-related fees/tax compliance and preparation for purposes of determining whether non-audit fees are excessive.
SSGA FM will support the discharge of auditors and requirements that auditors attend the annual meeting of shareholders. 1
Capital Related Issues
Capital structure proposals include requests by management for approval of amendments to the certificate of incorporation that will alter the capital structure of the company.
The most common request is for an increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock, usually in conjunction with a stock split or dividend. Typically, requests that are not unreasonably dilutive or enhance the rights of common shareholders are supported. In considering authorized share proposals, the typical threshold for approval is 100% over current authorized shares. However, the threshold may be increased if the company offers a specific need or purpose (merger, stock splits, growth purposes, etc.). All proposals are evaluated on a case-by-case basis taking into account the companys specific financial situation.
Increase in Authorized Common Shares
In general, SSGA FM supports share increases for general corporate purposes up to 100% of current authorized stock.
SSGA FM supports increases for specific corporate purposes up to 100% of the specific need plus 50% of current authorized common stock for US firms.
When applying the thresholds, SSGA FM will also consider the nature of the specific need, such as mergers and acquisitions and stock splits.
Increase in Authorized Preferred Shares
SSGA FM votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals to increase the number of preferred shares.
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Generally, SSGA FM will vote for the authorization of preferred stock in cases where the company specifies the voting, dividend, conversion, and other rights of such stock and the terms of the preferred stock appear reasonable.
SSGA FM will support proposals to create declawed blank check preferred stock (stock that cannot be used as a takeover defense). However, SSGA FM will vote against proposals to increase the number of blank check preferred stock authorized for issuance when no shares have been issued or reserved for a specific purpose.
Unequal Voting Rights
SSGA FM will not support proposals authorizing the creation of new classes of common stock with superior voting rights and will vote against new classes of preferred stock with unspecified voting, conversion, dividend distribution, and other rights. In addition, SSGA FM will not support capitalization changes that add blank check classes of stock (i.e. classes of stock with undefined voting rights) or classes that dilute the voting interests of existing shareholders.
However, SSGA FM will support capitalization changes that eliminate other classes of stock and/or unequal voting rights.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Mergers or reorganizing the structure of a company often involve proposals relating to reincorporation, restructurings, mergers, liquidations, and other major changes to the corporation.
Proposals that are in the best interests of the shareholders, demonstrated by enhancing share value or improving the effectiveness of the companys operations, will be supported.
In general, provisions that are not viewed as economically sound or are thought to be destructive to shareholders rights are not supported.
SSGA FM will generally support transactions that maximize shareholder value. Some of the considerations include, but are not limited to the following:
| | Offer premium; |
| | Strategic rationale; |
| | Board oversight of the process for the recommended transaction, including, director and/or management conflicts of interest; |
| | Offers made at a premium and where there are no other higher bidders; and |
| | Offers in which the secondary market price is substantially lower than the net asset value. |
SSGA FM may vote against a transaction considering the following:
| | Offers with potentially damaging consequences for minority shareholders because of illiquid stock, especially in some non-US markets; |
| | Offers where we believe there is a reasonable prospect for an enhanced bid or other bidders; and |
| | At the time of voting, the current market price of the security exceeds the bid price. |
AntiTakeover Issues
Typically, these are proposals relating to requests by management to amend the certificate of incorporation or bylaws to add or delete a provision that is deemed to have an antitakeover effect. The majority of these proposals deal with managements attempt to add some provision that makes a hostile takeover more difficult or will protect incumbent management in the event of a change in control of the company.
Proposals that reduce shareholders rights or have the effect of entrenching incumbent management will not be supported.
Proposals that enhance the right of shareholders to make their own choices as to the desirability of a merger or other proposal are supported.
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Shareholder Rights Plans
SSGA FM will support mandates requiring shareholder approval of a shareholder rights plans (poison pill) and repeals of various anti-takeover related provisions.
In general, SSGA FM will vote against the adoption or renewal of a US issuers shareholder rights plan (poison pill).
SSGA FM will vote for an amendment to a shareholder rights plan (poison pill) where the terms of the new plans are more favorable to shareholders ability to accept unsolicited offers (i.e. if one of the following conditions are met: (i) minimum trigger, flip-in or flip-over of 20%, (ii) maximum term of three years, (iii) no dead hand, slow hand, no hand or similar feature that limits the ability of a future board to redeem the pill, and (iv) inclusion of a shareholder redemption feature (qualifying offer clause), permitting ten percent of the shares to call a special meeting or seek a written consent to vote on rescinding the pill if the board refuses to redeem the pill 90 days after a qualifying offer is announced).
Special Meetings
SSGA FM will vote for shareholder proposals related to special meetings at companies that do not provide shareholders the right to call for a special meeting in their bylaws if:
| | The company also does not allow shareholders to act by written consent; or |
| | The company allows shareholders to act by written consent but the ownership threshold for acting by written consent is set above 25% of outstanding shares. |
SSGA FM will vote for shareholder proposals related to special meetings at companies that give shareholders (with a minimum 10% ownership threshold) the right to call for a special meeting in their bylaws if:
| | The current ownership threshold to call for a special meeting is above 25% of outstanding shares. |
SSGA FM will vote for management proposals related to special meetings.
Written Consent
SSGA FM will vote for shareholder proposals on written consent at companies if:
| | The company does not have provisions in their bylaws giving shareholders the right to call for a special meeting; or |
| | The company allows shareholders the right to call for a special meeting but the current ownership threshold to call for a special meeting is above 25% of outstanding shares; and |
| | The company has a poor governance profile. |
SSGA FM will vote management proposals on written consent on a case-by-case basis.
SuperMajority
SSGA FM will generally vote against amendments to bylaws requiring super-majority shareholder votes to pass or repeal certain provisions. SSGA FM will vote for the reduction or elimination of super-majority vote requirements, unless management of the issuer was concurrently seeking to or had previously made such a reduction or elimination.
Remuneration Issues
Despite the differences among the types of plans and the awards possible there is a simple underlying philosophy that guides the analysis of all compensation plans; namely, are the terms of the plan designed to provide an incentive for executives and/or employees to align their interests with those of the shareholders and thus work toward enhancing shareholder value. Plans which benefit participants only when the shareholders also benefit are those most likely to be supported.
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Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation and Frequency
SSGA FM believes executive compensation plays a critical role in aligning executives interest with shareholders, attracting, retaining and incentivizing key talent, and ensuring positive correlation between the performance achieved by management and the benefits derived by shareholders. SSGA FM supports management proposals on executive compensation where there is a strong relationship between executive pay and performance over a five-year period. SSGA FM seeks adequate disclosure of different compensation elements, absolute and relative pay levels, peer selection and benchmarking, the mix of long term and short term incentives, alignment of pay structures with shareholder interests as well as with corporate strategy and performance. Further, shareholders should have the opportunity to assess whether pay structures and levels are aligned with business performance on an annual basis.
Employee Equity Award Plans
SSGA FM considers numerous criteria when examining equity award proposals. Generally, SSGA FM does not vote against plans for lack of performance or vesting criteria. Rather, the main criteria that will result in a vote against an equity award plan are:
Excessive voting power dilution To assess the dilutive effect, we divide the number of shares required to fully fund the proposed plan, the number of authorized but unissued shares and the issued but unexercised shares by the fully diluted share count. SSGA FM reviews that number in light of certain factors, including the industry of the issuer.
Historical option grants Excessive historical option grants over the past three years. Plans that provide for historical grant patterns of greater than eight to twelve percent are generally not supported.
Repricing SSGA FM will vote against any plan where repricing is expressly permitted. If a company has a history of repricing underwater options, the plan will not be supported.
Other criteria include the following:
| | Number of participants or eligible employees; |
| | The variety of awards possible; and |
| | The period of time covered by the plan. |
There are numerous factors that we view as negative, and together, may result in a vote against a proposal:
| | Grants to individuals or very small groups of participants; |
| | Gun-jumping grants which anticipate shareholder approval of a plan or amendment; |
| | The power of the board to exchange underwater options without shareholder approval; this pertains to the ability of a company to reprice options, not the actual act of repricing described above; |
| | Below market rate loans to officers to exercise their options; |
| | The ability to grant options at less than fair market value; |
| | Acceleration of vesting automatically upon a change in control; and |
| | Excessive compensation (i.e. compensation plans which are deemed by SSGA FM to be overly dilutive). |
Share Repurchases If a company makes a clear connection between a share repurchase program and its intent to offset dilution created from option plans and the company fully discloses the amount of shares being repurchased, the voting dilution calculation may be adjusted to account for the impact of the buy back.
Companies who do not (i) clearly state the intentions of any proposed share buy-back plan or (ii) disclose a definitive number of the shares to be bought back, (iii) specify the range of premium/discount to market price at which a company can repurchase shares and, (iv) disclose the time frame during which the shares will be bought back, will not have any such repurchase plan factored into the dilution calculation.
162(m) Plan Amendments If a plan would not normally meet the SSGA FM criteria described above, but is primarily being amended to add specific performance criteria to be used with awards designed to qualify for performance-based exception from the tax deductibility limitations of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, then SSGA FM will support the proposal to amend the plan.
8
Employee Stock Option Plans
SSGA FM generally votes for stock purchase plans with an exercise price of not less than 85% of fair market value. However, SSGA FM takes market practice into consideration.
Compensation Related Items
SSGA FM will generally support the following proposals:
| | Expansions to reporting of financial or compensation-related information, within reason; and |
| | Proposals requiring the disclosure of executive retirement benefits if the issuer does not have an independent compensation committee. |
SSGA FM will generally vote against the following proposals:
| | Retirement bonuses for non-executive directors and auditors. |
Miscellaneous/Routine Items
SSGA FM generally supports the following miscellaneous/routine governance items:
| | Reimbursement of all appropriate proxy solicitation expenses associated with the election when voting in conjunction with support of a dissident slate; |
| | Opting out of business combination provision; |
| | Proposals that remove restrictions on the right of shareholders to act independently of management; |
| | Liquidation of the company if the company will file for bankruptcy if the proposal is not approved; |
| | Shareholder proposals to put option repricings to a shareholder vote; |
| | General updating of or corrective amendments to charter and bylaws not otherwise specifically addressed herein, unless such amendments would reasonably be expected to diminish shareholder rights (e.g. extension of directors term limits, amending shareholder vote requirement to amend the charter documents, insufficient information provided as to the reason behind the amendment); |
| | Change in corporation name; |
| | Mandates that amendments to bylaws or charters have shareholder approval; |
| | Management proposals to change the date, time, and/or location of the annual meeting unless the proposed change is unreasonable; |
| | Repeals, prohibitions or adoption of anti-greenmail provisions; |
| | Management proposals to implement a reverse stock split when the number of authorized shares will be proportionately reduced and proposals to implement a reverse stock split to avoid delisting; and |
| | Exclusive forum provisions. |
SSGA FM generally does not support the following miscellaneous/ routine governance items:
| | Proposals asking companies to adopt full tenure holding periods for their executives; |
| | Reincorporation to a location that we believe has more negative attributes than its current location of incorporation; |
| | Shareholder proposals to change the date, time, and/or location of the annual meeting unless the current scheduling or location is unreasonable; |
| | Proposals to approve other business when it appears as voting item; |
| | Proposals giving the board exclusive authority to amend the bylaws; and |
| | Proposals to reduce quorum requirements for shareholder meetings below a majority of the shares outstanding unless there are compelling reasons to support the proposal. |
9
Environmental and Social Issues
As a fiduciary, we consider the financial and economic implications of environmental and social issues first and foremost. Environmental and social factors not only can have an impact on the reputation of companies; they may also represent significant operational risks and costs to business.
Well-developed environmental and social management systems can also generate efficiencies and enhance productivity, both of which impact shareholder value in the long-term.
SSGA FM encourages companies to be transparent about the environmental and social risks and opportunities they face and adopt robust policies and processes to manage such issues. In our view, companies that manage all risks and consider opportunities related to environmental and social issues are able to adapt faster to changes and appear to be better placed to achieve sustainable competitive advantage in the long-term. Similarly, companies with good risk management systems, which include environmental and social policies, have a stronger position relative to their peers to manage risk and change, which could result in anything from regulation and litigation, physical threats (severe weather, climate change), economic trends as well as shifts in consumer behavior.
In their public reporting, we expect companies to disclose information on relevant management tools and material environmental and social performance metrics. We support efforts by companies to try to demonstrate how sustainability fits into operations and business activities. SSGA FMs team of analysts evaluates these risks on an issuer-by-issuer basis; understanding that environmental and social risks can vary widely depending on company industry, its operations, and geographic footprint.
| 1 | Common for non-US issuers; request from the issuer to discharge from liability the directors or auditors with respect to actions taken by them during the previous year. |
10
ssga.com
State Street Global Advisors Worldwide Entities
Australia : State Street Global Advisors, Australia, Limited (ABN 42 003 914 225) is the holder of an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL Number 238276). Registered Office: Level 17, 420 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia. T: +612 9240 7600. F: +612 9240 7611. Belgium : State Street Global Advisors Belgium, Chausse de La Hulpe 120, 1000 Brussels, Belgium. T: +32 2 663 2036, F: +32 2 672 2077. SSGA Belgium is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Canada : State Street Global Advisors, Ltd., 770 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 1200 Montreal, Quebec, H3A 1G1, T: +514 282 2400 and 30 Adelaide Street East Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M5C 3G6. T: +647 775 5900. Dubai : State Street Bank and Trust Company (Representative Office), Boulevard Plaza 1, 17th Floor, Office 1703 Near Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa, P.O Box 26838, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. T: +971 (0)4 4372800. F: +971 (0)4 4372818. France : State Street Global Advisors France. Authorised and regulated by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. Registered with the Register of Commerce and Companies of Nanterre under the number: 412 052 680. Registered Office: Immeuble Défense Plaza, 23-25 rue Delarivière-Lefoullon, 92064 Paris La Défense Cedex, France. T: +33 1 44 45 40 00. F: +33 1 44 45 41 92. Germany : State Street Global Advisors GmbH, Brienner Strasse 59, D-80333 Munich. T: +49 (0)89 55878 100. F: +49 (0)89 55878 440. Hong Kong : State Street Global Advisors Asia Limited, 68/F, Two International Finance Centre, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong. T: +852 2103 0288. F: +852 2103 0200. Ireland : State Street Global Advisors Ireland Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Incorporated and registered in Ireland at Two Park Place, Upper Hatch Street, Dublin 2. Registered Number: 145221. Member of the Irish Association of Investment Managers. T: +353 (0)1 776 3000. F: +353 (0)1 776 3300. Italy : State Street Global Advisors Italy, Sede Secondaria di Milano, Via dei Bossi, 4 20121 Milan, Italy. T: +39 02 32066 100. F: +39 02 32066 155. State Street Global Advisors Italy is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Japan : State Street Global Advisors (Japan) Co., Ltd., 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6239. T: +813 4530 7380. Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Financial Bureau (Kinsho #345). Japan Investment Advisers Association, Investment Trusts Association Japan, Japan Securities Dealers Association. Netherlands : State Street Global Advisors Netherlands, Adam Smith Building, Thomas Malthusstraat 1-3, 1066 JR Amsterdam, Netherlands. T: +31 (0)20 7181701. State Street Global Advisors Netherlands is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Singapore : State Street Global Advisors Singapore Limited, 168, Robinson Road, #33-01 Capital Tower, Singapore 068912 (Company Registered Number: 200002719D). T: +65 6826 7500. F: +65 6826 7501. Switzerland : State Street Global Advisors AG, Beethovenstr. 19, CH-8027 Zurich. T: +41 (0)44 245 70 00. F: +41 (0)44 245 70 16. United Kingdom : State Street Global Advisors Limited. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England. Registered Number: 2509928. VAT Number: 5776591 81. Registered Office: 20 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5HJ. T: +020 3395 6000. F: +020 3395 6350. United States : State Street Global Advisors, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111-2900. T: +617 664 7727.
The views expressed in this material are the views of SSGA Corporate Governance Team through the period ended March 31, 2015 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
SSGA generally delegates commodities management for separately managed accounts to SSGA FM, a wholly owned subsidiary of State Street and an affiliate of SSGA. SSGA FM is registered as a commodity trading advisor (CTA) with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and National Futures Association.
This communication is not specifically directed to investors of separately managed accounts (SMA) utilizing futures, options on futures or swaps. SSGA FM CTA clients should contact SSGA Relationship Management for important CTA materials.
Investing involves risk including the risk of loss of principal.
The whole or any part of this work may not be reproduced, copied or transmitted or any of its contents disclosed to third parties without SSGAs express written consent.
The information provided does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investors particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your tax and financial advisor. All material has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. There is no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information and State Street shall have no liability for decisions based on such information.
© 2015 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
ID3439-INST-5436 0315 Exp. Date: 03/31/2016
March 2015
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
Europe
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.s, (SSGA FM) European Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines cover different corporate governance frameworks and practices in European markets excluding the United Kingdom and Ireland. This policy complements and should be read in conjunction with SSGA FMs overarching Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles and SSGAs Conflicts of Interest Policy which provide a detailed explanation of SSGA FMs approach to voting and engaging with companies.
SSGA FMs Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines in European markets address areas including board structure, audit related issues, capital structure, remuneration, environmental, social and other governance related issues. Principally, we believe the primary responsibility of the board of directors is to preserve and enhance shareholder value and protect shareholder interests. In order to carry out their primary responsibilities, directors have to undertake activities that range from setting strategy, overseeing executive management and monitoring the risks that arise from a companys business, including risks related to sustainability issues. Further, good corporate governance necessitates the existence of effective internal controls and risk management systems, which should be governed by the board.
When voting and engaging with companies in European markets, SSGA FM considers market specific nuances in the manner that we believe will most likely protect and promote the long-term economic value of client investments. SSGA FM expects companies to observe the relevant laws and regulations of their respective markets as well as country specific best practice guidelines and corporate governance codes. When we feel that a countrys regulatory requirements do not address some of the key philosophical principles that SSGA FM believes are fundamental to its global voting guidelines, we may hold companies in such markets to our global standards.
In its analysis and research in to corporate governance issues in European companies, SSGA FM also considers guidance issued by the European Commission. Companies should provide detailed explanations under diverse comply or explain approaches, especially where they fail to meet requirements and why any such non-compliance would serve shareholders long-term interests.
SSGA FMs Proxy Voting and Engagement Philosophy
In our view, corporate governance and sustainability issues are an integral part of the investment process. The Corporate Governance Team consists of investment professionals with expertise in corporate governance and company law, remuneration, accounting as well as environmental and social issues. SSGA FM has established robust corporate governance principles and practices that are backed with extensive analytical expertise to understand the complexities of the corporate governance landscape. SSGA FM engages with companies to provide insight on the principles and practices that drive our voting decisions. We also conduct proactive engagement to address significant shareholder concerns and environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in a manner consistent with maximizing shareholder value.
The team works alongside members of SSGA FMs active fundamental and EMEA investment teams; collaborating on issuer engagement and providing input on company specific fundamentals. SSGA FM is also a member of various investor associations that seek to address broader corporate governance related policy issues in European markets.
SSGA FM is a signatory to the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investment (UNPRI) and is compliant with the UK Stewardship Code. We are committed to sustainable investing and are working to further integrate ESG principles into investment and corporate governance practice, where applicable and consistent with our fiduciary duty.
Directors and Boards
SSGA FM believes that a well constituted board of directors, with a good balance of skills, expertise and independence, provides the foundations for a well governed company. SSGA FM votes for the election/reelection of directors on a case-by-case basis after considering various factors including general market practice and availability of information on director skills and expertise. In principle, SSGA FM believes independent directors are crucial to good corporate governance and help management establish sound corporate governance policies and practices.
A sufficiently independent board will most effectively monitor management and perform oversight functions necessary to protect shareholder interests.
SSGA FMs broad criteria for director independence in European companies include factors such as:
| | Participation in relatedparty transactions and other business relations with the company; |
| | Employment history with company; |
| | Relations with controlling shareholders; |
| | Family ties with any of the companys advisers, directors or senior employees; |
| | Employee and government representatives; and |
| | Overall average board tenure and individual director tenure at issuers with classified and de-classified boards, respectively. |
2
While, overall board independence requirements and board structures differ from market to market, SSGA FM considers voting against directors it deems nonindependent if overall board independence is below one third. SSGA FM also assesses the division of responsibilities between chairman and CEO on a casebycase basis, giving consideration to factors such as overall level of independence on the board and general corporate governance standards in the company. SSGA FM may also not support a proposal to discharge the board, if a company fails to meet adequate governance standards or board level independence.
When considering the election or re-election of a non-executive director, SSGA FM also considers the number of outside board directorships a non-executive can undertake and attendance at board meetings. In addition, SSGA FM may vote against the election of a director whose biographical disclosures are insufficient to assess his or her role on the board and/or independence.
Although we generally are in favour of the annual election of directors, we recognise that director terms vary considerably in different European markets. SSGA FM may vote against article/ bylaw changes that seek to extend director terms. In addition, in certain markets, SSGA FM may vote against directors if their director terms extend beyond four years.
SSGA FM believes companies should have relevant board level committees for audit, remuneration and nomination oversight. The audit committee is responsible for monitoring the integrity of the financial statements of the company, appointing external auditors, monitoring their qualifications and independence as well their effectiveness and resource levels. Similarly, executive pay is an important aspect of corporate governance, and it should be determined by the board of directors and SSGA FM expects companies to have in place remuneration committees to provide independent oversight over executive pay. SSGA FM may vote against nominees who are executive members of audit or remuneration committees.
In its analysis of boards, SSGA FM considers whether board members have adequate skills to provide effective oversight of corporate strategy, operations and risks, including environmental and social issues. Boards should also have a regular evaluation process in place to assess the effectiveness of the board and the skills of board members to address issues such as emerging risks, changes to corporate strategy and diversification of operations and geographic footprint.
In certain European markets it is not uncommon for the election of directors to be presented in a single slate. In these cases, where executives serve on the audit or the remuneration committees, SSGA FM may vote against the entire slate.
SSGA FM may also consider factors such as board performance and directors who appear to be remiss in the performance of their oversight responsibilities. (e.g. fraud, criminal wrongdoing, breach of fiduciary responsibilities)
Indemnification and Limitations on Liability
Generally, SSGA FM supports proposals to limit directors liability and/or expand indemnification and liability protection up to the limit provided by law, if he or she has not acted in bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
Audit Related Issues
Companies should have robust internal audit and internal control systems designed for effective management of any potential and emerging risks to company operations and strategy. The responsibility of setting out an internal audit function lies with the audit committee, which should have as members independent non-executive directors.
Appointment of External Auditors
SSGA FM believes that a companys auditor is an essential feature of an effective and transparent system of external supervision and shareholders should be given the opportunity to vote on their appointment or re-appoint at the annual meeting. When appointing external auditors and approving audit fees, SSGA FM will take into consideration the level of detail in company disclosures and will generally not support such resolutions if adequate breakdown is not provided and if non-audit fees are more than 50% of audit fees. In addition, SSGA FM may vote against members of the audit committee if we have concerns with audit related issues or if the level of non-audit fees to audit fees is significant. In certain circumstances, SSGA FM may consider auditor tenure when evaluating the audit process.
Limit Legal Liability of External Auditors
SSGA FM generally opposes limiting the legal liability of audit firms as we believe this could create a negative impact on the quality of the audit function.
3
Shareholder Rights and Capital Related Issues
In some European markets, differential voting rights continue to exist. SSGA FM supports the one share one vote policy and favours a share structure where all shares have equal voting rights. SSGA FM believes pre-emption rights should be introduced for shareholders in order to provide adequate protection from being overly diluted from the issuance of new shares or convertible securities to third parties or a small number of select shareholders.
Unequal Voting Rights
SSGA FM generally opposes proposals authorizing the creation of new classes of common stock with superior voting rights and will generally oppose new classes of preferred stock with unspecified voting, conversion, dividend distribution, and other rights. In addition, SSGA FM will not support capitalization changes that add classes of stock with undefined voting rights or classes that may dilute the voting interests of existing shareholders. SSGA FM supports proposals to abolish voting caps and capitalization changes that eliminate other classes of stock and/or unequal voting rights.
Increase in Authorized Capital
The ability raise capital is critical for companies to carry out strategy, grow, and achieve returns above their cost of capital. The approval of capital raising activities is fundamental to shareholders ability to monitor the amounts of proceeds and to ensure capital is deployed efficiently. SSGA FM supports capital increases that have sound business reasons and are not excessive relative to a companys existing capital base.
Pre-emption rights are a fundamental right for shareholders to protect their investment in a company. Where companies seek to issue new shares whilst dis-applying pre-emption rights, SSGA FM may vote against if such authorities are greater than 20% of the issued share capital. SSGA FM may also vote against resolutions seeking authority to issue capital with pre-emption rights if the aggregate amount allowed seems excessive and is not justified by the board. Generally, we are against capital issuance proposals greater than 100% of the issued share capital when the proceeds are not intended for a specific purpose.
Share Repurchase Programs
SSGA FM generally supports a proposal to repurchase shares, other than if the issuer does not clearly state the business purpose for the program, a definitive number of shares to be repurchased, specify the range of premium/discount to market price at which a company can repurchase shares, and the time frame for the repurchase. SSGA FM may vote against share re-purchase requests that allow share re-purchases during a takeover period.
Dividends
SSGA FM generally supports dividend payouts that constitute 30% or more of net income. SSGA FM may vote against the dividend payouts if the dividend payout ratio has been consistently below 30% without adequate explanation; or, the payout is excessive given the companys financial position. Particular attention will be paid where the payment may damage the companys long-term financial health.
Related Party Transactions
Certain companies in European markets have a controlled ownership structure and have complex cross-shareholdings between subsidiaries and parent companies (related companies). Such structures may result in the prevalence of related-party transactions between the company and its various stakeholders such as directors and management, subsidiaries and shareholders. In markets where shareholders are required to approve such transactions, SSGA FM expects companies to provide details of the transaction, such as the nature, value and purpose of such a transaction. It also encourages independent directors to ratify such transactions. Further, SSGA FM encourages companies to describe the level of independent board oversight and the approval process, including details of any independent valuations provided by financial advisors on related-party transactions.
4
Mergers and Acquisitions
Mergers or reorganizing the structure of a company often involve proposals relating to reincorporation, restructurings, mergers, liquidations, and other major changes to the corporation. Proposals that are in the best interests of the shareholders, demonstrated by enhancing share value or improving the effectiveness of the companys operations, will be supported. In general, provisions that are not viewed as economically sound or are thought to be destructive to shareholders rights are not supported.
SSGA FM will generally support transactions that maximize shareholder value. Some of the considerations include, but are not limited to the following:
| | Offer premium; |
| | Strategic rationale; |
| | Board oversight of the process for the recommended transaction, including, director and/or management conflicts of interest; |
| | Offers made at a premium and where there are no other higher bidders; and |
| | Offers in which the secondary market price is substantially lower than the net asset value. |
SSGA FM may vote against a transaction considering the following:
| | Offers with potentially damaging consequences for minority shareholders because of illiquid stock; |
| | Offers where we believe there is a reasonable prospect for an enhanced bid or other bidders; and |
| | At the time of voting, the current market price of the security exceeds the bid price |
AntiTakeover Measures
European markets have diverse regulations concerning the use of share issuances as takeover defenses with legal restrictions lacking in some markets. SSGA FM supports a one-share, one-vote policy, for example, given that dual-class capital structures entrench certain shareholders and management, insulating them from possible takeovers. SSGA FM opposes unlimited share issuance authorizations as they may be used as antitakeover devices, and they have the potential for substantial voting and earnings dilution. SSGA FM also monitors the duration of authorities to issue shares and whether there are restrictions and caps on multiple issuance authorities during the specified time periods. SSGA FM opposes antitakeover defenses such as authorities for the board, when subject to a hostile takeover, to issue warrants convertible into shares to existing shareholders.
Remuneration
Executive Pay
Despite the differences among the types of plans and awards possible, there is a simple underlying philosophy that guides SSGA FMs analysis of executive paythere should be a direct relationship between remuneration and company performance over the long-term.
Shareholders should have the opportunity to assess whether pay structures and levels are aligned with business performance. When assessing remuneration reports, SSGA FM considers factors such as adequate disclosure of different remuneration elements, absolute and relative pay levels, peer selection and benchmarking, the mix of long-term and short-term incentives, alignment of pay structures with shareholder interests as well as with corporate strategy and performance. SSGA FM may oppose remuneration reports where pay seems misaligned with shareholders interests. SSGA FM may also vote against the re-election of members of the remuneration committee if we have serious concerns over remuneration practices and the company has not been responsive to shareholder pressure to review its approach.
Equity Incentives Plans
SSGA FM may not support proposals on equity-based incentive plans where insufficient information is provided on matters such as grant limits, performance metrics, performance and vesting periods and overall dilution. SSGA FM does not generally support options under such plans being issued at a discount to market price or plans that allow for re-testing of performance metrics.
5
NonExecutive Director Pay
In European markets, authorities seeking shareholder approval for non-executive directors fees are generally not controversial. SSGA FM generally supports resolutions regarding directors fees unless disclosure is poor and we are unable to determine whether they are excessive relative to fees paid by other companies in the same country or industry. SSGA FM will evaluate on a company-by-company basis any non-cash or performance related pay to non-executive directors.
Risk Management
SSGA FM believes that risk management is a key function of the board, which is responsible for setting the overall risk appetite of a company and for providing oversight on the risk management process established by senior executives at a company. SSGA FM allows boards discretion over how they provide oversight in this area. However, SSGA FM expects companies to disclose how the board provides oversight on its risk management system and to identify key risks facing the company. Boards should also review existing and emerging risks as they can change with a changing political and economic landscape, or as companies diversify or expand their operations into new areas.
Environmental and Social Issues
As a fiduciary, SSGA FM considers the financial and economic implications of environmental and social issues first and foremost. In this regard, SSGA FM supports environmental and social related items that we believe would protect or enhance shareholder value. Environmental and social factors not only can have an impact on the reputation of companies; they may also represent significant operational risks and costs to business. Well-developed environmental and social management systems can also generate efficiencies and enhance productivity, both of which impact shareholder value in the long-term.
SSGA FM encourages companies to be transparent about the environmental and social risks and opportunities they face and adopt robust policies and processes to manage such issues. In our view, companies that manage all risks and consider opportunities related to environmental and social issues are able to adapt faster to changes and appear to be better placed to achieve sustainable competitive advantage in the long-term. Similarly, Companies with good risk management systems, which include environmental and social policies, have a stronger position relative to their peers to manage risk and change, which could result in anything from regulation and litigation, physical threats (severe weather, climate change), economic trends as well as shifts in consumer behavior.
In their public reporting, we expect companies to disclose information on relevant management tools and material environmental and social performance metrics. We support efforts by companies to try to demonstrate how sustainability fits into operations and business activities. SSGA FMs team of analysts evaluates these risks and shareholder proposals relating to them on an issuer by issuer basis; understanding that environmental and social risks can vary widely depending on company industry, its operations, and geographic footprint. SSGA FM may also take action against the re-election of members of the board if we have serious concerns over ESG practices and the company has not been responsive to shareholder pressure.
6
ssga.com
State Street Global Advisors Worldwide Entities
Australia : State Street Global Advisors, Australia, Limited (ABN 42 003 914 225) is the holder of an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL Number 238276). Registered Office: Level 17, 420 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia. T: +612 9240 7600. F: +612 9240 7611. Belgium : State Street Global Advisors Belgium, Chausse de La Hulpe 120, 1000 Brussels, Belgium. T: +32 2 663 2036, F: +32 2 672 2077. SSGA Belgium is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Canada : State Street Global Advisors, Ltd., 770 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 1200 Montreal, Quebec, H3A 1G1, T: +514 282 2400 and 30 Adelaide Street East Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M5C 3G6. T: +647 775 5900. Dubai : State Street Bank and Trust Company (Representative Office), Boulevard Plaza 1, 17th Floor, Office 1703 Near Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa, P.O Box 26838, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. T: +971 (0)4 4372800. F: +971 (0)4 4372818. France : State Street Global Advisors France. Authorised and regulated by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. Registered with the Register of Commerce and Companies of Nanterre under the number: 412 052 680. Registered Office: Immeuble Défense Plaza, 23-25 rue Delarivière-Lefoullon, 92064 Paris La Défense Cedex, France. T: +33 1 44 45 40 00. F: +33 1 44 45 41 92. Germany : State Street Global Advisors GmbH, Brienner Strasse 59, D-80333 Munich. T: +49 (0)89 55878 100. F: +49 (0)89 55878 440. Hong Kong : State Street Global Advisors Asia Limited, 68/F, Two International Finance Centre, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong. T: +852 2103 0288. F: +852 2103 0200. Ireland : State Street Global Advisors Ireland Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Incorporated and registered in Ireland at Two Park Place, Upper Hatch Street, Dublin 2. Registered Number: 145221. Member of the Irish Association of Investment Managers. T: +353 (0)1 776 3000. F: +353 (0)1 776 3300. Italy : State Street Global Advisors Italy, Sede Secondaria di Milano, Via dei Bossi, 4 20121 Milan, Italy. T: +39 02 32066 100. F: +39 02 32066 155. State Street Global Advisors Italy is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Japan : State Street Global Advisors (Japan) Co., Ltd., 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6239. T: +813 4530 7380. Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Financial Bureau (Kinsho #345). Japan Investment Advisers Association, Investment Trusts Association Japan, Japan Securities Dealers Association. Netherlands : State Street Global Advisors Netherlands, Adam Smith Building, Thomas Malthusstraat 1-3, 1066 JR Amsterdam, Netherlands. T: +31 (0)20 7181701. State Street Global Advisors Netherlands is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Singapore : State Street Global Advisors Singapore Limited, 168, Robinson Road, #33-01 Capital Tower, Singapore 068912 (Company Registered Number: 200002719D). T: +65 6826 7500. F: +65 6826 7501. Switzerland : State Street Global Advisors AG, Beethovenstr. 19, CH-8027 Zurich. T: +41 (0)44 245 70 00. F: +41 (0)44 245 70 16. United Kingdom : State Street Global Advisors Limited. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England. Registered Number: 2509928. VAT Number: 5776591 81. Registered Office: 20 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5HJ. T: +020 3395 6000. F: +020 3395 6350. United States : State Street Global Advisors, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111-2900. T: +617 664 7727.
The views expressed in this material are the views of SSGA Corporate Governance Team through the period ended February 28, 2015 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected.
Investing involves risk including the risk of loss of principal.
The whole or any part of this work may not be reproduced, copied or transmitted or any of its contents disclosed to third parties without SSGAs express written consent.
The information provided does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investors particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your tax and financial advisor. All material has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. There is no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information and State Street shall have no liability for decisions based on such information.
© 2015 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
ID3449-INST-5416 0315 Exp. Date: 03/31/2016
March 2015
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines United Kingdom
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.s, (SSGA FM), UK Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines outline our expectations of companies listed on stock exchanges in the United Kingdom and Ireland. This policy complements and should be read in conjunction with SSGA FMs Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles, which provide a detailed explanation of SSGA FMs approach to voting and engaging with companies and SSGAs Conflicts of Interest Policy.
SSGA FMs UK Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines address areas including board structure, audit related issues, capital structure, remuneration, environmental, social and other governance related issues. Principally, we believe the primary responsibility of the board of directors is to preserve and enhance shareholder value and protect shareholder interests. In order to carry out their primary responsibilities, directors have to undertake activities that range from setting strategy, overseeing executive management to monitoring the risks that arise from a companys business, including risks related to sustainability issues. Further, good corporate governance necessitates the existence of effective internal controls and risk management systems, which should be governed by the board.
When voting and engaging with companies in global markets, SSGA FM considers market specific nuances in the manner that we believe will most likely protect and promote the long-term economic value of client investments. SSGA FM expects companies to observe the relevant laws and regulations of their respective markets as well as country specific best practice guidelines and corporate governance codes. When we feel that a countrys regulatory requirements do not address some of the key philosophical principles that SSGA FM believes are fundamental to its global voting guidelines, we may hold companies in such markets to our global standards.
In its analysis and research into corporate governance issues in the UK and Ireland, SSGA FM expects all companies, regardless of domicile, that obtain a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange or the Irish Stock Exchange to comply with the UK Corporate Governance Code. Companies should provide detailed explanations under the Codes comply or explain approach, especially where they fail to meet requirements and why any such non-compliance would serve shareholders long-term interests.
SSGA FMs Proxy Voting and Engagement Philosophy
In our view, corporate governance and sustainability issues are an integral part of the investment process. The Corporate Governance Team consists of investment professionals with expertise in corporate governance and company law, remuneration, accounting as well as environmental and social issues. SSGA FM has established robust corporate governance principles and practices that are backed with extensive analytical expertise to understand the complexities of the corporate governance landscape. SSGA FM engages with companies to provide insight on the principles and practices that drive our voting decisions. We also conduct proactive engagement to address significant shareholder concerns and environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in a manner consistent with maximizing shareholder value.
The team works alongside members of SSGA FMs active fundamental and EMEA investment teams; collaborating on issuer engagement and providing input on company specific fundamentals. SSGA FM is also a member of various investor associations that seek to address broader corporate governance related policy issues in the UK and European markets.
SSGA FM is a signatory to the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investment (UNPRI) and is compliant with the UK Stewardship Code. We are committed to sustainable investing and are working to further integrate ESG principles into investment and corporate governance practice, where applicable and consistent with our fiduciary duty.
Directors and Boards
SSGA FM believes that a well constituted board of directors, with a good balance of skills, expertise and independence, provides the foundations for a well governed company. SSGA FM votes for the election/re-election of directors on a case-by-case basis after considering various factors including general market practice and availability of information on director skills and expertise. In principle, SSGA FM believes independent directors are crucial to good corporate governance and help management establish sound corporate governance policies and practices.
A sufficiently independent board will most effectively monitor management and perform oversight functions necessary to protect shareholder interests.
SSGA FMs broad criteria for director independence in UK companies include factors such as:
| | Participation in related-party transactions and other business relations with the company; |
| | Employment history with company; |
| | Excessive tenure and a preponderance of long-tenured directors: |
| | Relations with controlling shareholders; and |
| | Family ties with any of the companys advisers, directors or senior employees. |
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When considering the election or re-election of a director, SSGA FM also considers the number of outside board directorships a non-executive and an executive may undertake as well as attendance at board meetings. In addition, SSGA FM monitors other factors that may influence the independence of a non-executive director, such as performance related pay, cross-directorships, significant shareholdings and tenure. SSGA FM supports the annual election of directors.
While SSGA FM is generally supportive of having the roles of chairman and CEO separated in the UK market, SSGA FM assesses the division of responsibilities between chairman and CEO on a case-by-case basis, giving consideration to factors such as the companys specific circumstances, overall level of independence on the board and general corporate governance standards in the company. Similarly, SSGA FM will monitor for circumstances where a combined chairman/CEO is appointed or where a former CEO becomes chairman.
SSGA FM may also consider factors such as board performance and directors who appear to be remiss in the performance of their oversight responsibilities when considering their suitability for reappointment. (e.g. fraud, criminal wrongdoing, breach of fiduciary responsibilities).
SSGA FM believes companies should have committees for audit, remuneration and nomination oversight. The audit committee is responsible for monitoring the integrity of the financial statements of the company, appointing external auditors, monitoring their qualifications and independence as well their effectiveness and resource levels. Similarly, executive pay is an important aspect of corporate governance, and it should be determined by the board of directors and SSGA FM expects companies to have in place remuneration committees to provide independent oversight over executive pay. SSGA FM will vote against nominees who are executive members of audit or remuneration committees.
In its analysis of boards, SSGA FM considers whether board members have adequate skills to provide effective oversight of corporate strategy, operations and risks, including environmental and social issues. Boards should also have a regular evaluation process in place to assess the effectiveness of the board and the skills of board members to address issues such as emerging risks, changes to corporate strategy and diversification of operations and geographic footprint. The nomination committee is responsible for evaluating and keeping under review the balance of skills, knowledge and experience of the board and ensuring that adequate succession plans are in place for directors and the CEO. SSGA FM may vote against the re-election of members of the nomination committee if, over time, the board has failed to address concerns over board structure or succession.
Indemnification and Limitations on Liability
Generally, SSGA FM supports proposals to limit directors liability and/or expand indemnification and liability protection up to the limit provided by law, if he or she has not acted in bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in.
Audit Related Issues
Companies should have robust internal audit and internal control systems designed for effective management of any potential and emerging risks to company operations and strategy. The responsibility of setting out an internal audit function lies with the audit committee, which should have as members independent non-executive directors.
Appointment of External Auditors
SSGA FM believes that a companys auditor is an essential feature of an effective and transparent system of external supervision and shareholders should be given the opportunity to vote on their appointment or re-appoint at the annual meeting. When appointing external auditors and approving audit fees, SSGA FM will take into consideration the level of detail in company disclosures and will generally not support such resolutions if an adequate breakdown is not provided and if non-audit fees are more than 50% of audit fees. In addition, SSGA FM may vote against members of the audit committee if we have concerns with audit related issues or if the level of non-audit fees to audit fees is significant. In certain circumstances, SSGA FM may consider auditor tenure when evaluating the audit process.
Limit Legal Liability of External Auditors
SSGA FM generally opposes limiting the legal liability of audit firms as we believe this could create a negative impact on the quality of the audit function.
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Shareholder Rights and Capital Related Issues
Share Issuances
The ability to raise capital is critical for companies to carry out strategy, grow, and achieve returns above their cost of capital. The approval of capital raising activities is fundamental to shareholders ability to monitor the amounts of proceeds and to ensure capital is deployed efficiently. SSGA FM supports capital increases that have sound business reasons and are not excessive relative to a companys existing capital base.
Pre-emption rights are a fundamental right for shareholders to protect their investment in a company. Where companies seeks to issue new shares whilst dis-applying pre-emption rights, SSGA FM may vote against if such authorities are greater than 20% of the issued share capital. SSGA FM may also vote against resolutions seeking authority to issue capital with pre-emption rights if the aggregate amount allowed seems excessive and is not justified by the board. Generally, we are against capital issuance proposals greater than 100% of the issued share capital when the proceeds are not intended for a specific purpose.
Share Repurchase Programs
SSGA FM generally supports a proposal to repurchase shares, other than if the issuer does not clearly state the business purpose for the program, a definitive number of shares to be repurchased, specify the range of premium/discount to market price at which a company can repurchase shares, and the time frame for the repurchase. SSGA FM may vote against share re-purchase requests that allow share re-purchases during a takeover period.
Dividends
SSGA FM generally supports dividend payouts that constitute 30% or more of net income. SSGA FM may vote against the dividend payouts if the dividend payout ratio has been consistently below 30% without adequate explanation; or, the payout is excessive given the companys financial position. Particular attention will be paid where the payment may damage the companys long term financial health.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Mergers or reorganizing the structure of a company often involve proposals relating to reincorporation, restructurings, mergers, liquidations, and other major changes to the corporation. Proposals that are in the best interests of the shareholders, demonstrated by enhancing share value or improving the effectiveness of the companys operations, will be supported. In general, provisions that are not viewed as economically sound or are thought to be destructive to shareholders rights are not supported.
SSGA FM will generally support transactions that maximize share-holder value. Some of the considerations include, but are not limited to the following:
| | Offer premium; |
| | Strategic rationale; |
| | Board oversight of the process for the recommended transaction, including, director and/or management conflicts of interest; |
| | Offers made at a premium and where there are no other higher bidders; and |
| | Offers in which the secondary market price is substantially lower than the net asset value. |
SSGA FM may vote against a transaction considering the following:
| | Offers with potentially damaging consequences for minority shareholders because of illiquid stock; |
| | Offers where we believe there is a reasonable prospect for an enhanced bid or other bidders; and |
| | At the time of voting, the current market price of the security exceeds the bid price. |
Anti-Takeover Measures
SSGA FM opposes antitakeover defenses such as authorities for the board when subject to a hostile takeover to issue warrants convertible into shares to existing shareholders.
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Remuneration
Executive Pay
Despite the differences among the types of plans and awards possible, there is a simple underlying philosophy that guides SSGA FMs analysis of executive paythere should be a direct relationship between remuneration and company performance over the long-term.
Shareholders should have the opportunity to assess whether pay structures and levels are aligned with business performance. When assessing remuneration policies and reports, SSGA FM considers factors such as adequate disclosure of different remuneration elements, absolute and relative pay levels, peer selection and benchmarking, the mix of long-term and short-term incentives, alignment of pay structures with shareholder interests as well as with corporate strategy and performance. SSGA FM may oppose remuneration reports where pay seems misaligned with shareholders interests. SSGA FM may also vote against the re-election of members of the remuneration committee if we have serious concerns over remuneration practices and the company has not been responsive to shareholder pressure.
Equity Incentives Plans
SSGA FM may not support proposals on equity-based incentive plans where insufficient information is provided on matters such as grant limits, performance metrics, performance and vesting periods and overall dilution. SSGA FM does not generally support options under such plans being issued at a discount to market price or plans that allow for re-testing of performance metrics.
Non-Executive Director Pay
Authorities seeking shareholder approval for non-executive directors fees are generally not controversial. SSGA FM generally supports resolutions regarding directors fees unless disclosure is poor and we are unable to determine whether they are excessive relative to fees paid by other companies in the same country or industry. SSGA FM will evaluate on a company- by-company basis any non-cash or performance related pay to non-executive directors.
Risk Management
SSGA FM believes that risk management is a key function of the board, which is responsible for setting the overall risk appetite of a company and for providing oversight on the risk management process established by senior executives at a company. SSGA FM allows boards discretion over how they provide oversight in this area. However, SSGA FM expects companies to disclose how the board provides oversight on its risk management system and to identify key risks facing the company. Boards should also review existing and emerging risks as they can change with a changing political and economic landscape, or as companies diversify or expand their operations into new areas.
Environmental and Social Issues
As a fiduciary, SSGA FM considers the financial and economic implications of environmental and social issues first and foremost. In this regard, SSGA FM supports environmental and social related items that we believe would protect or enhance shareholder value. Environmental and social factors not only can have an impact on the reputation of companies; they may also represent significant operational risks and costs to business. Well-developed environmental and social management systems can also generate efficiencies and enhance productivity, both of which impact shareholder value in the long-term.
SSGA FM encourages companies to be transparent about the environmental and social risks and opportunities they face and adopt robust policies and processes to manage such issues. In our view, companies that manage all risks and consider opportunities related to environmental and social issues are able to adapt faster to changes and appear to be better placed to achieve sustainable competitive advantage in the long-term. Similarly, companies with good risk management systems, which include environmental and social policies, have a stronger position relative to their peers to manage risk and change, which could result in anything from regulation and litigation, physical threats (severe weather, climate change), economic trends as well as shifts in consumer behavior.
In their public reporting, we expect companies to disclose information on relevant management tools and material environmental and social performance metrics. We support efforts by companies to try to demonstrate how sustainability fits into operations and business activities. SSGA FMs team of analysts evaluates these risks and shareholder proposals relating to them on an issuer by issuer basis; understanding that environmental and social risks can vary widely depending on company industry, its operations, and geographic footprint. SSGA FM may also take action against the re-election of members of the board if we have serious concerns over ESG practices and the company has not been responsive to shareholder pressure.
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State Street Global Advisors Worldwide Entities
Australia : State Street Global Advisors, Australia, Limited (ABN 42 003 914 225) is the holder of an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL Number 238276). Registered Office: Level 17, 420 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia. T: +612 9240 7600. F: +612 9240 7611. Belgium : State Street Global Advisors Belgium, Chausse de La Hulpe 120, 1000 Brussels, Belgium. T: +32 2 663 2036, F: +32 2 672 2077. SSGA Belgium is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Canada : State Street Global Advisors, Ltd., 770 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 1200 Montreal, Quebec, H3A 1G1, T: +514 282 2400 and 30 Adelaide Street East Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M5C 3G6. T: +647 775 5900. Dubai : State Street Bank and Trust Company (Representative Office), Boulevard Plaza 1, 17th Floor, Office 1703 Near Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa, P.O Box 26838, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. T: +971 (0)4 4372800. F: +971 (0)4 4372818. France : State Street Global Advisors France. Authorised and regulated by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. Registered with the Register of Commerce and Companies of Nanterre under the number: 412 052 680. Registered Office: Immeuble Défense Plaza, 23-25 rue Delarivière-Lefoullon, 92064 Paris La Défense Cedex, France. T: +33 1 44 45 40 00. F: +33 1 44 45 41 92. Germany : State Street Global Advisors GmbH, Brienner Strasse 59, D-80333 Munich. T: +49 (0)89 55878 100. F: +49 (0)89 55878 440. Hong Kong : State Street Global Advisors Asia Limited, 68/F, Two International Finance Centre, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong. T: +852 2103 0288. F: +852 2103 0200. Ireland : State Street Global Advisors Ireland Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Incorporated and registered in Ireland at Two Park Place, Upper Hatch Street, Dublin 2. Registered Number: 145221. Member of the Irish Association of Investment Managers. T: +353 (0)1 776 3000. F: +353 (0)1 776 3300. Italy : State Street Global Advisors Italy, Sede Secondaria di Milano, Via dei Bossi, 4 20121 Milan, Italy. T: +39 02 32066 100. F: +39 02 32066 155. State Street Global Advisors Italy is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Japan : State Street Global Advisors (Japan) Co., Ltd., 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6239. T: +813 4530 7380. Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Financial Bureau (Kinsho #345). Japan Investment Advisers Association, Investment Trusts Association Japan, Japan Securities Dealers Association. Netherlands : State Street Global Advisors Netherlands, Adam Smith Building, Thomas Malthusstraat 1-3, 1066 JR Amsterdam, Netherlands. T: +31 (0)20 7181701. State Street Global Advisors Netherlands is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Singapore : State Street Global Advisors Singapore Limited, 168, Robinson Road, #33-01 Capital Tower, Singapore 068912 (Company Registered Number: 200002719D). T: +65 6826 7500. F: +65 6826 7501. Switzerland : State Street Global Advisors AG, Beethovenstr. 19, CH-8027 Zurich. T: +41 (0)44 245 70 00. F: +41 (0)44 245 70 16. United Kingdom : State Street Global Advisors Limited. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England. Registered Number: 2509928. VAT Number: 5776591 81. Registered Office: 20 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5HJ. T: +020 3395 6000. F: +020 3395 6350. United States : State Street Global Advisors, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111-2900. T: +617 664 7727.
The views expressed in this material are the views of SSGA Corporate Governance Team through the period ended February 19, 2015 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected.
Investing involves risk including the risk of loss of principal.
The whole or any part of this work may not be reproduced, copied or transmitted or any of its contents disclosed to third parties without SSGAs express written consent.
The information provided does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investors particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your tax and financial advisor. All material has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. There is no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information and State Street shall have no liability for decisions based on such information.
© 2015 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
ID3445-INST-5412 0315 Exp. Date: 03/31/2016
March 2015
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
Emerging Markets
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.s (SSGA FM) Emerging Market Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines cover different corporate governance frameworks and practices in emerging markets. This policy complements and should be read in conjunction with SSGA FMs overarching Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles which provides a detailed explanation of SSGA FMs approach to voting and engaging with companies, and SSGAs Conflicts of Interest Policy.
At SSGA FM, we recognize that countries in emerging markets are disparate in their corporate governance frameworks and practices. Concurrent with developing a company specific voting and engagement program, SSGA FM also evaluates the various factors that play into the corporate governance framework of a country. These factors include: (i) the macroeconomic conditions and broader political system in a country; (ii) quality of regulatory oversight, enforcement of property and shareholder rights; and (iii) the independence of judiciaryto name a few. While emerging market countries tend to pose broad common governance issues across all markets, such as concentrated ownership, poor disclosure of financial and related-party transactions, and weak enforcement of rules and regulation, SSGA FMs emerging market proxy voting policy is designed to identify and address specific governance concerns in each market.
SSGA FMs Proxy Voting and Engagement Philosophy in Emerging Markets
SSGA FMs approach to proxy voting and issuer engagement in emerging markets is designed to increase the value of our investments through the mitigation of governance risks. Since the overall quality of the corporate governance framework in an emerging market country drives the level of governance risks investors assign to a country, improving the macro governance framework in a country may help reduce governance risks, in turn, increasing the overall value of SSGA FMs holdings over time. Therefore, in order to improve the overall governance framework and practices in a country, members of our proxy voting and engagement team endeavor to visit emerging market countries and meet with representatives from regulatory agencies and stock markets to highlight potential concerns with the macro governance framework of a country. SSGA FM is also a member of various investor associations that seek to address broader corporate governance related policy issues in emerging markets. To help mitigate company specific risk, the team works alongside members of the active fundamental and emerging market teams to engage with emerging market companies on governance issues and address any specific concerns or to get more information regarding shareholder items that are to be voted on at upcoming shareholder meetings. This integrated approach to engagement drives SSGA FMs proxy voting and engagement philosophy in emerging markets.
SSGA FMs proxy voting guidelines in emerging markets addresses six broad areas:
| | Directors and Boards; |
| | Accounting and Audit Related Issues; |
| | Shareholder Rights and Capital Related Issues; |
| | Remuneration; |
| | Environmental and Social Issues; and |
| | General/Routine Issues. |
Directors and Boards
SGA FM believes that a well constituted board of directors, with a good balance of skills, expertise and independence, provides the foundations for a well governed company. However, several factors such as low overall independence level requirements by market regulators, poor biographical disclosure of director profiles, prevalence of related-party transactions and the general resistance from controlling shareholders to increase board independence renders the election of directors as one of the most important fiduciary duties SSGA FM performs in emerging market companies.
SSGA FM votes for the election/re-election of directors on a case-by-case basis after considering various factors including general market practice and availability of information on director skills and expertise.
SSGA FMs broad criteria for director independence in emerging market companies include factors such as:
| | Participation in related-party transactions; |
| | Employment history with company; |
| | Relations with controlling shareholders and other |
| | employees; and |
| | Attendance levels. |
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Audit Related Issues
The disclosure and availability of reliable financial statements in a timely manner is imperative for the investment process. As a result, board oversight of internal controls and the independence of the audit process are essential if investors are to rely on financial statements. SSGA FM believes that audit committees provide the necessary oversight on the selection and appointment of auditors, a companys internal controls and accounting policies, and the overall audit process. In emerging markets, SSGA FM encourages boards to appoint an audit committee composed of a majority of independent auditors.
Appointment of External Auditors
SSGA FM believes that a companys auditor is an essential feature of an effective and transparent system of external supervision and shareholders should be given the opportunity to vote on their appointment or re-appoint at the annual meeting. SSGA FM believes that it is imperative for audit committees to select outside auditors who are independent from management.
Shareholder Rights and Capital Related Issues
SSGA FM believes that changes to a companys capital structure such as changes in authorized share capital, share repurchase and debt issuances are critical decisions made by the board. SSGA FM believes the company should have a well explained business rationale that is consistent with corporate strategy and should not overly dilute its shareholders.
Related Party Transactions
Most companies in emerging markets have a controlled ownership structure that often include complex cross-shareholding between subsidiaries and parent companies (related companies). As a result, there is a high prevalence of related-party transactions between the company and its various stakeholders such as directors and management. In addition, inter-group loan and loan guarantees provided to related companies are some of the other related-party transactions that increase the risk profile of companies. In markets where shareholders are required to approve such transactions, SSGA FM expects companies to provide details of the transaction, such as the nature, value and purpose of such a transaction. It also encourages independent directors to ratify such transactions. Further, SSGA FM encourages companies to describe the level of independent board oversight and the approval process, including details of any independent valuations provided by financial advisors on related-party transactions.
Share Repurchase Programs
With regard to share repurchase programs, SSGA FM expects companies to clearly state the business purpose for the program, a definitive number of shares to be repurchase.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Mergers or reorganizing the structure of a company often involve proposals relating to reincorporation, restructurings, mergers, liquidations, and other major changes to the corporation. Proposals that are in the best interests of the shareholders, demonstrated by enhancing share value or improving the effectiveness of the companys operations, will be supported. In general, provisions that are not viewed as economically sound or are thought to be destructive to shareholders rights are not supported.
SSGA FM evaluates mergers and structural reorganizations on a case-by-case basis. SSGA FM will generally support transactions that maximize shareholder value. Some of the considerations include, but are not limited to the following:
| | Offer premium; |
| | Strategic rationale; |
| | Board oversight of the process for the recommended transaction, including, director and/or management conflicts of interest; |
| | Offers made at a premium and where there are no other higher bidders; and |
| | Offers in which the secondary market price is substantially lower than the net asset value. |
SSGA FM may vote against a transaction considering the following:
| | Offers with potentially damaging consequences for minority shareholders because of illiquid stock; |
| | Offers where we believe there is a reasonable prospect for an enhanced bid or other bidders; and |
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| | At the time of voting, the current market price of the security exceeds the bid price. |
SSGA will actively seek direct dialogue with the board and management of companies we have identified through our screening processes. Such engagements may lead to further monitoring to ensure the company improves its governance or sustainability practices. In these cases, the engagement process represents the most meaningful opportunity for SSGA to protect long-term shareholder value from excessive risk due to poor governance and sustainability practices.
Remuneration
SSGA FM considers it to be the boards responsibility to set appropriate level of executive compensation. Despite the differences among the types of plans and the awards possible, there is a simple underlying philosophy that guides SSGA FMs analysis of executive compensation; there should be a direct relationship between executive compensation and company performance over the long term. In emerging markets we encourage companies to disclose information on senior executive remuneration.
With regard to director remuneration, SSGA FM supports director pay provided the amounts are not excessive relative to other issuers in the market or industry and are not overly dilutive to existing shareholders.
Environmental and Social Issues
As a fiduciary, SSGA FM considers the financial and economic implications of environmental and social issues first and foremost. In this regard, SSGA FM supports environmental and social related items that we believe would protect or enhance shareholder value. Environmental and social factors can not only have an impact on the reputation of companies; they may also represent significant operational risks and costs to business. Well-developed environmental and social management systems generate efficiencies and enhance productivity, both of which impact shareholder value in the long-term.
SSGA FM encourages companies to be transparent about the environmental and social risks and opportunities they face and adopt robust policies and processes to manage such issues. Companies with good risk management systems, which include environmental and social policies, have a stronger position relative to their peers to manage risk and change. In their public reporting, we expect companies to disclose information on relevant management tools and material environmental and social performance metrics. We support efforts by companies to try to demonstrate how sustainability fits into operations and business activities. SSGA FMs team of analysts evaluates these risks on an issuer by issuer basis; understanding that environmental and social risks can vary widely depending on company industry, its operations, and geographic footprint. In emerging markets, shareholders seldom vote on environmental and social issues. Therefore, SSGA FM addresses a companys approach to identifying and managing environmental and social risks stemming for various aspects of its operations in its one-on-one engagement with companies.
General/Routine Issues
Some of the other issues that are routinely voted on in emerging markets include approving the allocation of income and accepting financial statements and statutory reports. For these voting items, SSGA FMs policies consider several factors including historical dividend payouts, pending litigation, governmental investigation, charges of fraud or other indication of significant concerns.
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ssga.com
State Street Global Advisors Worldwide Entities
Australia : State Street Global Advisors, Australia, Limited (ABN 42 003 914 225) is the holder of an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL Number 238276). Registered Office: Level 17, 420 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia. T: +612 9240 7600. F: +612 9240 7611. Belgium : State Street Global Advisors Belgium, Chausse de La Hulpe 120, 1000 Brussels, Belgium. T: +32 2 663 2036, F: +32 2 672 2077. SSGA Belgium is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Canada : State Street Global Advisors, Ltd., 770 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 1200 Montreal, Quebec, H3A 1G1, T: +514 282 2400 and 30 Adelaide Street East Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M5C 3G6. T: +647 775 5900. Dubai : State Street Bank and Trust Company (Representative Office), Boulevard Plaza 1, 17th Floor, Office 1703 Near Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa, P.O Box 26838, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. T: +971 (0)4 4372800. F: +971 (0)4 4372818. France : State Street Global Advisors France. Authorised and regulated by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. Registered with the Register of Commerce and Companies of Nanterre under the number: 412 052 680. Registered Office: Immeuble Défense Plaza, 23-25 rue Delarivière-Lefoullon, 92064 Paris La Défense Cedex, France. T: +33 1 44 45 40 00. F: +33 1 44 45 41 92. Germany : State Street Global Advisors GmbH, Brienner Strasse 59, D-80333 Munich. T: +49 (0)89 55878 100. F: +49 (0)89 55878 440. Hong Kong : State Street Global Advisors Asia Limited, 68/F, Two International Finance Centre, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong. T: +852 2103 0288. F: +852 2103 0200. Ireland : State Street Global Advisors Ireland Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Incorporated and registered in Ireland at Two Park Place, Upper Hatch Street, Dublin 2. Registered Number: 145221. Member of the Irish Association of Investment Managers. T: +353 (0)1 776 3000. F: +353 (0)1 776 3300. Italy : State Street Global Advisors Italy, Sede Secondaria di Milano, Via dei Bossi, 4 20121 Milan, Italy. T: +39 02 32066 100. F: +39 02 32066 155. State Street Global Advisors Italy is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Japan : State Street Global Advisors (Japan) Co., Ltd., 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6239. T: +813 4530 7380. Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Financial Bureau (Kinsho #345). Japan Investment Advisers Association, Investment Trusts Association Japan, Japan Securities Dealers Association. Netherlands : State Street Global Advisors Netherlands, Adam Smith Building, Thomas Malthusstraat 1-3, 1066 JR Amsterdam, Netherlands. T: +31 (0)20 7181701. State Street Global Advisors Netherlands is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Singapore : State Street Global Advisors Singapore Limited, 168, Robinson Road, #33-01 Capital Tower, Singapore 068912 (Company Registered Number: 200002719D). T: +65 6826 7500. F: +65 6826 7501. Switzerland : State Street Global Advisors AG, Beethovenstr. 19, CH-8027 Zurich. T: +41 (0)44 245 70 00. F: +41 (0)44 245 70 16. United Kingdom : State Street Global Advisors Limited. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England. Registered Number: 2509928. VAT Number: 5776591 81. Registered Office: 20 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5HJ. T: +020 3395 6000. F: +020 3395 6350. United States : State Street Global Advisors, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111-2900. T: +617 664 7727.
The views expressed in this material are the views of SSGA Corporate Governance Team through the period ended February 28, 2015 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected.
Investing involves risk including the risk of loss of principal.
The whole or any part of this work may not be reproduced, copied or transmitted or any of its contents disclosed to third parties without SSGA express written consent.
The information provided does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investors particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your tax and financial advisor. All material has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. There is no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information and State Street shall have no liability for decisions based on such information.
© 2015 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
ID3510-INST-5434 0315 Exp. Date: 03/31/2016
March 2015
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
Japan
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.s, (SSGA FM) Japan Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines complement and should be read in conjunction with SSGA FMs overarching Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles, which provide a detailed explanation of SSGA FMs approach to voting and engaging with companies, and SSGAs Conflicts of Interest Policy.
SSGA FMs Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines in Japan address areas including; board structure, audit related issues, capital structure, remuneration, environmental, social and other governance related issues. Principally, we believe the primary responsibility of the board of directors is to preserve and enhance shareholder value and protect shareholder interests. In order to carry out their primary responsibilities, directors have to undertake activities that range from setting strategy, overseeing executive management to monitoring the risks that arise from a companys business, including risks related to sustainability issues. Further, good corporate governance necessitates the existence of effective internal controls and risk management systems, which should be governed by the board.
When voting and engaging with companies in Japan, SSGA FM takes into consideration the unique aspects of Japanese corporate governance structures. We recognize that under Japanese corporate law, companies may choose between two structures of corporate governance: the statutory auditor system or the committee structure. Most Japanese boards predominantly consist of executives and non-independent outsiders affiliated through commercial relationships or cross-shareholdings. Nonetheless, when evaluating companies, SSGA FM expects Japanese companies to address conflicts of interest, risk management and demonstrate an effective process for monitoring management. In its analysis and research into corporate governance issues in Japanese companies, SSGA FM also considers guidance issued by the Corporate Law Subcommittee of the Legislative Council within the Ministry of Justice as well as private study groups.
SSGA FMs Proxy Voting and Engagement Philosophy
In our view, corporate governance and sustainability issues are an integral part of the investment process. The Corporate Governance Team consists of investment professionals with expertise in corporate governance and company law, remuneration, and environmental and social issues. SSGA FM has established robust corporate governance principles and practices that are backed with extensive analytical expertise to understand the complexities of the corporate governance landscape. SSGA FM engages with companies to provide insight on the principles and practices that drive our voting decisions. We also conduct proactive engagement to address significant shareholder concerns and environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in a manner consistent with maximizing shareholder value.
The team works alongside members of SSGA FMs active investment teams; collaborating on issuer engagement and providing input on company specific fundamentals. SSGA FM is also a member of various investor associations that seek to address broader corporate governance related policy issues in Japan.
SSGA FM is a signatory to the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investment (UNPRI) and is compliant with UK Stewardship Code. We are committed to sustainable investing and are working to further integrate ESG principles into investment and corporate governance practice, where applicable and consistent with our fiduciary duty.
Directors and Boards
SSGA FM believes that a well constituted board of directors, with a good balance of skills, expertise and independence, provides the foundations for a well governed company. SSGA FM votes for the election/re-election of directors on a case-by-case basis after considering various factors including general market practice.
Japanese companies have the option of having a traditional board of directors with statutory auditors, or a board with a committee structure. Most Japanese issuers prefer the traditional statutory auditor structure. Statutory auditors act in a quasi-compliance role as they are not involved in strategic decision-making nor are they part of the formal management decision process. Statutory auditors attend board meetings but do not have voting rights at the board; however, they have the right to seek an injunction and conduct broad investigations of unlawful behavior in the companys operations.
SSGA FM will support the election of statutory auditors, unless the outside statutory auditor nominee is regarded as non-independent based on SSGA FM criteria, the outside statutory auditor has attended less than 75 percent of meetings of the board of directors or board of statutory auditors during the year under review, or the statutory auditor has been remiss in the performance of their oversight responsibilities (fraud, criminal wrong doing, breach of fiduciary responsibilities).
For companies with a statutory auditor structure there is no legal requirement that boards have outside directors, however, SSGA FM believes there should be a transparent process of independent and external monitoring of management on behalf of shareholders.
| | SSGA FM believes that non-controlled Japanese companies should appoint at least one outside director, otherwise, SSGA FM will oppose the top executive who is responsible for the director nomination process; and |
| | For controlled companies with a statutory auditor structure, SSGA FM will oppose the top executive, if the board does not have at least two outside directors. |
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For companies with a committee structure, SSGA FM votes for the election/re-election of directors on a case-by-case basis after considering general market practice, as well as the independence of the nominee. SSGA FM also takes into consideration the overall independence level of the committees. In determining director independence, SSGA FM considers the following factors:
| | Participation in related-party transactions and other business relations with the company; |
| | Past employment with the company; |
| | Provides professional services to the company; and |
| | Family ties with the company. |
Regardless of board structure, SSGA FM may oppose the election of a director for the following reasons:
| | Failure to attend board meetings; or |
| | In instances of egregious actions related to a directors service on the board. |
Indemnification and Limitations on Liability
Generally, SSGA FM supports proposals to limit directors and statutory auditors liability and/or expand indemnification and liability protection up to the limit provided by law, if he or she has not acted in bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office. SSGA FM believes limitations and indemnification are necessary to attract and retain qualified directors.
Audit Related Items
SSGA FM believes that a companys auditor is an essential feature of an effective and transparent system of external supervision and shareholders should have the opportunity to vote on their appointment at the annual meeting.
Ratifying External Auditors
SSGA FM will generally support the appointment of external auditors unless the external auditor is perceived as being non-independent and there are concerns about the accounts presented and the audit procedures followed.
Limit Legal Liability of External Auditors
SSGA FM generally opposes limiting the legal liability of audit firms as we believe this could create a negative impact on the quality of the audit function.
Capital Structure, Reorganization and Mergers
SSGA FM supports the one share one vote policy and favors a share structure where all shares have equal voting rights. SSGA FM supports proposals to abolish voting caps or multiple voting rights and will oppose measures to introduce these types of restrictions on shareholder rights. SSGA FM believes pre-emption rights should be introduced for shareholders in order to provide adequate protection from being overly diluted from the issuance of new shares or convertible securities to third parties or a small number of select shareholders.
Unequal Voting Rights
SSGA FM generally opposes proposals authorizing the creation of new classes of common stock with superior voting rights and will generally oppose new classes of preferred stock with unspecified voting, conversion, dividend distribution, and other rights. In addition, SSGA FM will not support capitalization changes that add classes of stock with undefined voting rights or classes that may dilute the voting interests of existing shareholders.
However, SSGA FM will support capitalization changes that eliminate other classes of stock and/or unequal voting rights.
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Increase in Authorized Capital
SSGA FM generally supports increases in authorized capital where the company provides an adequate explanation for the use of shares. In the absence of an adequate explanation, SSGA FM may oppose the request if the increase in authorized capital exceeds 100 percent of the currently authorized capital. Where share issuance requests exceed our standard threshold, SSGA FM will consider the nature of the specific need, such as mergers and acquisitions and stock splits.
Dividends
SSGA FM generally supports dividend payouts that constitute 30% or more of net income. SSGA FM may vote against the dividend payouts if the dividend payout ratio has been consistently below 30% without adequate explanation; or, the payout is excessive given the companys financial position. Particular attention will be paid where the payment may damage the companys long term financial health.
Share Repurchase Programs
Companies are allowed under Japan Corporate Law to amend their articles to authorize the repurchase of shares at the boards discretion. SSGA FM will oppose an amendment to articles allowing the repurchase of shares at the boards discretion. SSGA FM believes the company should seek shareholder approval for a share repurchase program at each years AGM, providing shareholders the right to evaluate the purpose of the repurchase.
SSGA FM generally supports a proposal to repurchase shares, other than if the issuer does not clearly state the business purpose for the program, a definitive number of shares to be repurchased, and the time frame for the repurchase. SSGA FM may vote against share repurchase requests that allow share repurchases during a takeover period.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Mergers or reorganizing the structure of a company often involve proposals relating to reincorporation, restructurings, mergers, liquidations, and other major changes to the corporation. Proposals that are in the best interests of the shareholders, demonstrated by enhancing share value or improving the effectiveness of the companys operations, will be supported. In general, provisions that are not viewed as economically sound or are thought to be destructive to shareholders rights are not supported.
SSGA FM evaluates mergers and structural reorganizations on a case-by-case basis. SSGA FM will generally support transactions that maximize shareholder value. Some of the considerations include, but are not limited to the following:
| | Offer premium; |
| | Strategic rationale; |
| | Board oversight of the process for the recommended transaction, including, director and/or management conflicts of interest; |
| | Offers made at a premium and where there are no other higher bidders; and |
| | Offers in which the secondary market price is substantially lower than the net asset value. |
SSGA FM may vote against a transaction considering the following:
| | Offers with potentially damaging consequences for minority shareholders because of illiquid stock; |
| | Offers where we believe there is a reasonable prospect for an enhanced bid or other bidders; and |
| | At the time of voting, the current market price of the security exceeds the bid price. |
Anti-Takeover Measures
In general, SSGA FM believes that adoption of poison pills that have been structured to protect management and to prevent takeover bids from succeeding is not in shareholders interest. A shareholder rights plan may lead to management entrenchment and discourage legitimate tender offers and acquisitions. Even if the premium paid to companies with a shareholder rights plan is higher than that offered to unprotected firms, a companys chances of receiving a takeover offer in the first place may be reduced by the presence of a shareholder rights plan.
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Proposals that reduce shareholders rights or have the effect of entrenching incumbent management will not be supported.
Proposals that enhance the right of shareholders to make their own choices as to the desirability of a merger or other proposal are supported.
Shareholder Rights Plans
In evaluating poison pills, the following conditions must be met before SSGA FM will recommend a vote in favor.
SSGA FM will support the adoption or renewal of a Japanese issuers shareholder rights plans (poison pill) if the following conditions are met: (i) minimum trigger, flip-in or flip-over of 20%, (ii) maximum term of three years, (iii) no dead hand, slow hand, no hand or similar feature that limits the ability of a future board to redeem the pill, and (iv) inclusion of a shareholder redemption feature (qualifying offer clause), permitting ten percent of the shares to call a special meeting or seek a written consent to vote on rescinding the pill if the board refuses to redeem the pill 90 days after a qualifying offer is announced.
SSGA FM will vote for an amendment to a shareholder rights plan (poison pill) where the terms of the new plans are more favorable to shareholders ability to accept unsolicited offers (i.e. if one of the following conditions are met: (i) minimum trigger, flip-in or flip-over of 20%, (ii) maximum term of three years, (iii) no dead hand, slow hand, no hand or similar feature that limits the ability of a future board to redeem the pill, or (iv) inclusion of a shareholder redemption feature (qualifying offer clause), permitting ten percent of the shares to call a special meeting or seek a written consent to vote on rescinding the pill if the board refuses to redeem the pill 90 days after a qualifying offer is announced).
Compensation
In Japan, excessive compensation is rarely an issue. Rather, the problem is the lack of connection between pay and performance. Fixed salaries and cash retirement bonuses tend to comprise a significant portion of the compensation structure while performance-based pay is generally a small portion of the total pay. SSGA FM, where possible, seeks to encourage the use of performance based compensation in Japan as an incentive for executives and as a way to align interests with shareholders.
Approve Adjustment to Aggregate Compensation Ceiling for Directors
Remuneration for directors is generally reasonable. Typically, each company sets the director compensation parameters as an aggregate thereby limiting the total pay to all directors. When requesting a change, a company must disclose the last time the ceiling was adjusted and management provides the rationale for the ceiling increase. SSGA FM will generally support proposed increases to the ceiling if the company discloses the rationale for the increase. SSGA FM may oppose proposals to increase the ceiling if there has been corporate malfeasance or sustained poor performance.
Approve Annual Bonuses for Directors/Statutory Auditors
In Japan, since there are no legal requirements that mandate companies to seek shareholder approval before awarding a bonus, SSGA FM believes that existing shareholder approval of the bonus should be considered best practice. As a result, SSGA FM supports management proposals on executive compensation where there is a strong relationship between executive pay and performance over a five-year period.
Approve Retirement Bonuses for Directors/ Statutory Auditors
Retirement bonuses make up a sizeable portion of directors and auditors lifetime compensation and are based on board tenure. While many companies in Japan have abolished this practice, there remain many proposals seeking shareholder approval for the total amounts paid to directors and statutory auditors as a whole. In general, SSGA FM supports these payments unless the recipient is an outsider or in instances where the amount is not disclosed.
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Approve Stock Plan
Most option plans in Japan are conservative, particularly at large companies. Japan corporate law requires companies to disclose the monetary value of the stock options for directors and/or statutory auditors. Some companies do not disclose the maximum number of options that can be issued per year and shareholders are unable to evaluate the dilution impact. In this case, SSGA FM cannot calculate the dilution level and, therefore, SSGA FM may oppose such plans for poor disclosure. SSGA FM also opposes plans that allow for the repricing of the exercise price.
Deep Discount Options
As Japanese companies move away from the retirement bonus system, deep discount options plans have become more popular. Typically, the exercise price is set at JPY 1 per share. SSGA FM evaluates deep discount options using the same criteria used to evaluate stock options as well as considering the vesting period.
Environmental and Social Issues
As a fiduciary, SSGA FM considers the financial and economic implications of environmental and social issues first and foremost. In this regard, SSGA FM supports environmental and social related items that we believe would protect or enhance shareholder value. Environmental and social factors can not only have an impact on the reputation of companies; they may also represent significant operational risks and costs to business. Well-developed environmental and social management systems generate efficiencies and enhance productivity, both of which impact shareholder value in the long-term.
SSGA FM encourages companies to be transparent about the environmental and social risks and opportunities they face and adopt robust policies and processes to manage such issues. Companies with good risk management systems, which include environmental and social policies, have a stronger position relative to their peers to manage risk and change.
In their public reporting, we expect companies to disclose information on relevant management tools and material environmental and social performance metrics. We support efforts by companies to try to demonstrate how sustainability fits into operations and business activities. SSGA FMs team of analysts evaluates these risks on an issuer by issuer basis; understanding that environmental and social risks can vary widely depending on company industry, its operations, and geographic footprint.
Miscellaneous/Routine Items
Expansion of Business Activities
Japanese companies articles of incorporation strictly define the types of businesses in which a company is permitted to engage. In general, SSGA FM views proposals to expand and diversify the companys business activities as routine and non-contentious. SSGA FM will monitor instances where there has been an inappropriate acquisition and diversification away from the companys main area of competence, which resulted in a decrease of shareholder value.
More Information
Any client who wishes to receive information on how its proxies were voted should contact its SSGA FM relationship manager.
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ssga.com
State Street Global Advisors Worldwide Entities
Australia : State Street Global Advisors, Australia, Limited (ABN 42 003 914 225) is the holder of an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL Number 238276). Registered Office: Level 17, 420 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia. T: +612 9240 7600. F: +612 9240 7611. Belgium : State Street Global Advisors Belgium, Chausse de La Hulpe 120, 1000 Brussels, Belgium. T: +32 2 663 2036, F: +32 2 672 2077. SSGA Belgium is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Canada : State Street Global Advisors, Ltd., 770 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 1200 Montreal, Quebec, H3A 1G1, T: +514 282 2400 and 30 Adelaide Street East Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M5C 3G6. T: +647 775 5900. Dubai : State Street Bank and Trust Company (Representative Office), Boulevard Plaza 1, 17th Floor, Office 1703 Near Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa, P.O Box 26838, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. T: +971 (0)4 4372800. F: +971 (0)4 4372818. France : State Street Global Advisors France. Authorised and regulated by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. Registered with the Register of Commerce and Companies of Nanterre under the number: 412 052 680. Registered Office: Immeuble Défense Plaza, 23-25 rue Delarivière-Lefoullon, 92064 Paris La Défense Cedex, France. T: +33 1 44 45 40 00. F: +33 1 44 45 41 92. Germany : State Street Global Advisors GmbH, Brienner Strasse 59, D-80333 Munich. T: +49 (0)89 55878 100. F: +49 (0)89 55878 440. Hong Kong : State Street Global Advisors Asia Limited, 68/F, Two International Finance Centre, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong. T: +852 2103 0288. F: +852 2103 0200. Ireland : State Street Global Advisors Ireland Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Incorporated and registered in Ireland at Two Park Place, Upper Hatch Street, Dublin 2. Registered Number: 145221. Member of the Irish Association of Investment Managers. T: +353 (0)1 776 3000. F: +353 (0)1 776 3300. Italy : State Street Global Advisors Italy, Sede Secondaria di Milano, Via dei Bossi, 4 20121 Milan, Italy. T: +39 02 32066 100. F: +39 02 32066 155. State Street Global Advisors Italy is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Japan : State Street Global Advisors (Japan) Co., Ltd., 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6239. T: +813 4530 7380. Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Financial Bureau (Kinsho #345). Japan Investment Advisers Association, Investment Trusts Association Japan, Japan Securities Dealers Association. Netherlands : State Street Global Advisors Netherlands, Adam Smith Building, Thomas Malthusstraat 1-3, 1066 JR Amsterdam, Netherlands. T: +31 (0)20 7181701. State Street Global Advisors Netherlands is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Singapore : State Street Global Advisors Singapore Limited, 168, Robinson Road, #33-01 Capital Tower, Singapore 068912 (Company Registered Number: 200002719D). T: +65 6826 7500. F: +65 6826 7501. Switzerland : State Street Global Advisors AG, Beethovenstr. 19, CH-8027 Zurich. T: +41 (0)44 245 70 00. F: +41 (0)44 245 70 16. United Kingdom : State Street Global Advisors Limited. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England. Registered Number: 2509928. VAT Number: 5776591 81. Registered Office: 20 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5HJ. T: +020 3395 6000. F: +020 3395 6350. United States : State Street Global Advisors, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111-2900. T: +617 664 7727.
The views expressed in this material are the views of SSGA Corporate Governance Team through the period ended February 28, 2015 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected.
Investing involves risk including the risk of loss of principal.
The whole or any part of this work may not be reproduced, copied or transmitted or any of its contents disclosed to third parties without SSGAs express written consent.
The information provided does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investors particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your tax and financial advisor. All material has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. There is no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information and State Street shall have no liability for decisions based on such information.
© 2015 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
ID3454-INST-5418 0315 Exp. Date: 03/31/2016
March 2015
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
Australia
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.s (SSGA FM) Australia Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines outline our expectations of companies listed on stock exchanges in Australia. This policy complements and should be read in conjunction with SSGA FMs Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles which provide a detailed explanation of SSGA FMs approach to voting and engaging with companies, and SSGAs Conflict of Interest Policy.
SSGA FMs Australia Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines address areas including board structure, audit related issues, capital structure, remuneration, environmental, social and other governance related issues. Principally, we believe the primary responsibility of the board of directors is to preserve and enhance shareholder value and protect shareholder interests. In order to carry out their primary responsibilities, directors have to undertake activities that range from setting strategy, overseeing executive management to monitoring the risks that arise from a companys business, including risks related to sustainability issues. Further, good corporate governance necessitates the existence of effective internal controls and risk management systems, which should be governed by the board.
When voting and engaging with companies in global markets, SSGA FM considers market specific nuances in the manner that we believe will most likely protect and promote the long-term economic value of client investments. SSGA FM expects companies to observe the relevant laws and regulations of their respective markets as well as country specific best practice guidelines and corporate governance codes. When we feel that a countrys regulatory requirements do not address some of the key philosophical principles that SSGA FM believes are fundamental to its global voting guidelines, we may hold companies in such markets to our global standards.
In its analysis and research in to corporate governance issues in Australia, SSGA FM expects all companies at a minimum to comply with the ASX Corporate Governance Principles. Companies should provide detailed explanations under the Principles comply or explain approach, especially where they fail to meet requirements and why any such non-compliance would serve shareholders long-term interests. On some governance matters, such as composition of audit committees, we hold Australian companies to our global standards requiring all directors on the committee to be independent of management.
SSGA FMs Proxy Voting and Engagement Philosophy
In our view, corporate governance and sustainability issues are an integral part of the investment process. The Corporate Governance Team consists of investment professionals with expertise in corporate governance and company law, remuneration, accounting as well as environmental and social issues. SSGA FM has established robust corporate governance principles and practices that are backed with extensive analytical expertise to understand the complexities of the corporate governance landscape. SSGA FM engages with companies to provide insight on the principles and practices that drive our voting decisions. We also conduct proactive engagement to address significant shareholder concerns and environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues in a manner consistent with maximizing shareholder value.
The team works alongside members of SSGA FMs active fundamental and the Asia-Pacific (APAC) investment teams; collaborating on issuer engagement and providing input on company specific fundamentals. SSGA FM is also a member of various investor associations that seek to address broader corporate governance related policy issues in the region.
SSGA FM is a signatory to the United Nations Principles of Responsible Investment (UNPRI) and is compliant with the UK Stewardship Code. We are committed to sustainable investing and are working to further integrate ESG principles into investment and corporate governance practice, where applicable and consistent with our fiduciary duty.
Directors and Boards
SSGA FM believes that a well constituted board of directors, with a good balance of skills, expertise and independence, provides the foundations for a well governed company. SSGA FM votes for the election/re-election of directors on a case-by-case basis after considering various factors including general market practice and availability of information on director skills and expertise. In principle, SSGA FM believes independent directors are crucial to good corporate governance and help management establish sound ESG policies and practices. A sufficiently independent board will most effectively monitor management and perform oversight functions necessary to protect shareholder interests.
SSGA FMs broad criteria for director independence in Australian companies include factors such as:
| | Participation in related-party transactions and other business relations with the company; |
| | Employment history with company; |
| | Relations with controlling shareholders; and |
| | Family ties with any of the companys advisers, directors or senior employees. |
When considering the election or re-election of a director, SSGA FM also considers the number of outside board director-ships a non-executive and an executive may undertake as well as attendance at board meetings. In addition, SSGA FM monitors other factors that may influence the independence of a non-executive director, such as performance related pay, cross-directorships, significant shareholdings and tenure. SSGA FM supports the annual election of directors and encourages Australian companies to adopt this practice.
While SSGA FM is generally supportive of having the roles of chairman and CEO separated in the Australia market, SSGA FM assesses the division of responsibilities between chairman and CEO on a case-by-case basis, giving consideration to factors such as the
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companys specific circumstances, overall level of independence on the board and general corporate governance standards in the company. Similarly, SSGA FM will monitor for circumstances where a combined chairman/CEO is appointed or where a former CEO becomes chairman.
SSGA FM may also consider factors such as board performance and directors who appear to be remiss in the performance of their oversight responsibilities when considering their suitability for reappointment. (e.g. fraud, criminal wrongdoing, breach of fiduciary responsibilities)
SSGA FM believes companies should have committees for audit, remuneration and nomination oversight. The audit committee is responsible for monitoring the integrity of the financial statements of the company, appointing external auditors, monitoring their qualifications and independence as well their effectiveness and resource levels. Australian Corporate Governance Principles requires ASX listed companies to have an audit committee of at least three members all of whom are non-executive directors and a majority of whom are independent directors. It also requires that the committee be chaired by an independent director who is not the chair of the board. SSGA FM holds Australian companies to its global standards for developed financial markets, by requiring that all members of the audit committee be independent directors.
In its analysis of boards, SSGA FM considers whether board members have adequate skills to provide effective oversight of corporate strategy, operations and risks, including environmental and social issues. Boards should also have a regular evaluation process in place to assess the effectiveness of the board and the skills of board members to address issues such as emerging risks, changes to corporate strategy and diversification of operations and geographic footprint. The nomination committee is responsible for evaluating and keeping under review the balance of skills, knowledge and experience of the board and ensuring that adequate succession plans are in place for directors and the CEO. SSGA FM may vote against the re-election of members of the nomination committee if, over time, the board has failed to address concerns over board structure or succession.
Executive pay is another important aspect of corporate governance. SSGA FM believes that executive pay should be determined by the board of directors and SSGA FM expects companies to have in place remuneration committees to provide independent oversight over executive pay. Australian Corporate Governance Principles requires ASX listed companies to have a remuneration committee of at least three members all of whom are non-executive directors and a majority of whom are independent directors. Since Australia has a non-binding vote on pay with a two-strike rule requiring a board spill in the event of a second strike, SSGA FM believes that the vote provides investors a mechanism to address concerns it may have on the quality of oversight provided by the board on remuneration issues. Accordingly SSGA FM voting guidelines accommodate local market practice.
Indemnification and limitations on liability
Generally, SSGA FM supports proposals to limit directors liability and/or expand indemnification and liability protection up to the limit provided by law, if he or she has not acted in bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
Audit Related Issues
Companies should have robust internal audit and internal control systems designed for effective management of any potential and emerging risks to company operations and strategy. The responsibility of setting out an internal audit function lies with the audit committee, which should have as members independent non-executive directors.
Appointment of External Auditors
SSGA FM believes that a companys auditor is an essential feature of an effective and transparent system of external supervision and shareholders should be given the opportunity to vote on their appointment or re-appoint at the annual meeting. When appointing external auditors and approving audit fees, SSGA FM will take into consideration the level of detail in company disclosures and will generally not support such resolutions if adequate breakdown is not provided and if non-audit fees are more than 50% of audit fees. In addition, SSGA FM may vote against members of the audit committee if we have concerns with audit related issues or if the level of non-audit fees to audit fees is significant. In certain circumstances, SSGA FM may consider auditor tenure when evaluating the audit process.
Shareholder Rights and Capital Related Issues
Share Issuances
The ability to raise capital is critical for companies to carry out strategy, grow, and achieve returns above their cost of capital. The approval of capital raising activities is fundamental to shareholders ability to monitor the amounts of proceeds and to ensure capital is deployed efficiently. SSGA FM supports capital increases that have sound business reasons and are not excessive relative to a companys existing capital base.
3
Pre-emption rights are a fundamental right for shareholders to protect their investment in a company. Where companies seeks to issue new shares whilst dis-applying pre-emption rights, SSGA FM may vote against if such authorities are greater than 20% of the issued share capital. SSGA FM may also vote against resolutions seeking authority to issue capital with pre-emption rights if the aggregate amount allowed seems excessive and is not justified by the board. Generally, we are against capital issuance proposals greater than 100% of the issued share capital when the proceeds are not intended for specific purpose.
Share Repurchase Programs
SSGA FM generally supports a proposal to repurchase shares, other than if the issuer does not clearly state the business purpose for the program, a definitive number of shares to be repurchased, and the time frame for the repurchase. SSGA FM may vote against share re-purchase requests that allow share re-purchases during a takeover period.
Dividends
SSGA FM generally supports dividend payouts that constitute 30% or more of net income. SSGA FM may vote against the dividend payouts if the dividend payout ratio has been consistently below 30% without adequate explanation; or, the payout is excessive given the companys financial position. Particular attention will be paid where the payment may damage the companys long-term financial health.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Mergers or reorganizing the structure of a company often involve proposals relating to reincorporation, restructurings, mergers, liquidations, and other major changes to the corporation. Proposals that are in the best interests of the shareholders, demonstrated by enhancing share value or improving the effectiveness of the companys operations, will be supported. In general, provisions that are not viewed as economically sound or are thought to be destructive to shareholders rights are not supported. SSGA FM will generally support transactions that maximize shareholder value. Some of the considerations include, but are not limited to the following:
| | Offer premium; |
| | Strategic rationale; |
| | Board oversight of the process for the recommended transaction, including, director and/or management conflicts of interest; |
| | Offers made at a premium and where there are no other higher bidders; and |
| | Offers in which the secondary market price is substantially lower than the net asset value. |
SSGA FM may vote against a transaction considering the following:
| | Offers with potentially damaging consequences for minority shareholders because of illiquid stock; |
| | Offers where we believe there is a reasonable prospect for an enhanced bid or other bidders; and |
| | At the time of voting, the current market price of the security exceeds the bid price. |
Anti-Takeover Measures
SSGA FM opposes antitakeover defenses, such as authorities for the board, when subject to a hostile takeover, to issue warrants convertible into shares to existing shareholders.
Remuneration
Executive Pay
There is a simple underlying philosophy that guides SSGA FMs analysis of executive paythere should be a direct relationship between remuneration and company performance over the long-term. Shareholders should have the opportunity to assess whether pay structures and levels are aligned with business performance. When assessing remuneration reports, SSGA FM considers factors such as adequate disclosure of different remuneration elements, absolute and relative pay levels, peer selection and benchmarking, the mix of long term and short term incentives, alignment of pay structures with shareholder interests as well as with corporate strategy and performance. SSGA FM may oppose remuneration reports where there seems to be a misalignment between pay and shareholders
4
interests and where incentive policies and schemes have a re-test option or feature. SSGA FM may also vote against the re-election of members of the remuneration committee if we have serious concerns over remuneration practices and the company has not been responsive to shareholder pressure to review its approach.
Equity Incentives Plans
SSGA FM may not support proposals on equity-based incentive plans where insufficient information is provided on matters such as grant limits, performance metrics, performance and vesting periods and overall dilution. SSGA FM does not generally support options under such plans being issued at a discount to market price or plans that allow for re-testing of performance metrics.
Non-Executive Director Pay
Authorities seeking shareholder approval for non-executive directors fees are generally not controversial. SSGA FM generally supports resolutions regarding directors fees unless disclosure is poor and we are unable to determine whether they are excessive relative to fees paid by other companies in the same country or industry. SSGA FM will evaluate on a company-by-company basis any non-cash or performance related pay to non-executive directors.
Risk Management
SSGA FM believes that risk management is a key function of the board, which is responsible for setting the overall risk appetite of a company and for providing oversight on the risk management process established by senior executives at a company. SSGA FM allows boards discretion over how they provide oversight in this area. However, SSGA FM expects companies to disclose how the board provides oversight on its risk management system and to identify key risks facing the company. Boards should also review existing and emerging risks as they can change with a changing political and economic landscape, or as companies diversify or expand their operations into new areas.
Environmental and Social Issues
As a fiduciary, SSGA FM considers the financial and economic implications of environmental and social issues first and foremost. In this regard, SSGA FM supports environmental and social related items that we believe would protect or enhance shareholder value. Environmental and social factors not only can have an impact on the reputation of companies; they may also represent significant operational risks and costs to business. Well-developed environmental and social management systems can also generate efficiencies and enhance productivity, both of which impact shareholder value in the long-term.
SSGA FM encourages companies to be transparent about the environmental and social risks and opportunities they face and adopt robust policies and processes to manage such issues. In our view, companies that manage all risks and consider opportunities related to environmental and social issues are able to adapt faster to changes and appear to be better placed to achieve sustainable competitive advantage in the long-term. Similarly, companies with good risk management systems, which include environmental and social policies, have a stronger position relative to their peers to manage risk and change, which could result in anything from regulation and litigation, physical threats (severe weather, climate change), economic trends as well as shifts in consumer behavior.
In their public reporting, we expect companies to disclose information on relevant management tools and material environmental and social performance metrics. We support efforts by companies to try to demonstrate how sustainability fits into operations and business activities. SSGA FMs team of analysts evaluates these risks and shareholder proposals relating to them on an issuer by issuer basis; understanding that environmental and social risks can vary widely depending on company industry, its operations, and geographic footprint. SSGA FM may also take action against the re-election of members of the board if we have serious concerns over ESG practices and the company has not been responsive to shareholder pressure.
5
ssga.com
State Street Global Advisors Worldwide Entities
Australia : State Street Global Advisors, Australia, Limited (ABN 42 003 914 225) is the holder of an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL Number 238276). Registered Office: Level 17, 420 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia. T: +612 9240 7600. F: +612 9240 7611. Belgium : State Street Global Advisors Belgium, Chausse de La Hulpe 120, 1000 Brussels, Belgium. T: +32 2 663 2036, F: +32 2 672 2077. SSGA Belgium is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Canada : State Street Global Advisors, Ltd., 770 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 1200 Montreal, Quebec, H3A 1G1, T: +514 282 2400 and 30 Adelaide Street East Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M5C 3G6. T: +647 775 5900. Dubai : State Street Bank and Trust Company (Representative Office), Boulevard Plaza 1, 17th Floor, Office 1703 Near Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa, P.O Box 26838, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. T: +971 (0)4 4372800. F: +971 (0)4 4372818. France : State Street Global Advisors France. Authorised and regulated by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. Registered with the Register of Commerce and Companies of Nanterre under the number: 412 052 680. Registered Office: Immeuble Défense Plaza, 23-25 rue Delarivière-Lefoullon, 92064 Paris La Défense Cedex, France. T: +33 1 44 45 40 00. F: +33 1 44 45 41 92. Germany : State Street Global Advisors GmbH, Brienner Strasse 59, D-80333 Munich. T: +49 (0)89 55878 100. F: +49 (0)89 55878 440. Hong Kong : State Street Global Advisors Asia Limited, 68/F, Two International Finance Centre, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong. T: +852 2103 0288. F: +852 2103 0200. Ireland : State Street Global Advisors Ireland Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Incorporated and registered in Ireland at Two Park Place, Upper Hatch Street, Dublin 2. Registered Number: 145221. Member of the Irish Association of Investment Managers. T: +353 (0)1 776 3000. F: +353 (0)1 776 3300. Italy : State Street Global Advisors Italy, Sede Secondaria di Milano, Via dei Bossi, 4 20121 Milan, Italy. T: +39 02 32066 100. F: +39 02 32066 155. State Street Global Advisors Italy is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Japan : State Street Global Advisors (Japan) Co., Ltd., 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6239. T: +813 4530 7380. Financial Instruments Business Operator, Kanto Local Financial Bureau (Kinsho #345). Japan Investment Advisers Association, Investment Trusts Association Japan, Japan Securities Dealers Association. Netherlands : State Street Global Advisors Netherlands, Adam Smith Building, Thomas Malthusstraat 1-3, 1066 JR Amsterdam, Netherlands. T: +31 (0)20 7181701. State Street Global Advisors Netherlands is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom. Singapore : State Street Global Advisors Singapore Limited, 168, Robinson Road, #33-01 Capital Tower, Singapore 068912 (Company Registered Number: 200002719D). T: +65 6826 7500. F: +65 6826 7501. Switzerland : State Street Global Advisors AG, Beethovenstr. 19, CH-8027 Zurich. T: +41 (0)44 245 70 00. F: +41 (0)44 245 70 16. United Kingdom : State Street Global Advisors Limited. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England. Registered Number: 2509928. VAT Number: 5776591 81. Registered Office: 20 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5HJ. T: +020 3395 6000. F: +020 3395 6350. United States : State Street Global Advisors, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111-2900. T: +617 664 7727.
The views expressed in this material are the views of SSGA Corporate Governance Team through the period ended February 28, 2015 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected.
Investing involves risk including the risk of loss of principal.
The whole or any part of this work may not be reproduced, copied or transmitted or any of its contents disclosed to third parties without SSGAs express written consent.
The information provided does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investors particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your tax and financial advisor. All material has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. There is no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information and State Street shall have no liability for decisions based on such information.
© 2015 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
ID3503-INST-5431 0315 Exp. Date: 03/31/2016
February 2015
Managing Conflicts of Interest arising from SSGAs Proxy Voting and Engagement Activities
State Street Corporation has a comprehensive standalone Conflicts of Interest Policy and other policies that address a range of conflicts of interests identified by our parent company. In addition, SSGA maintains a conflicts register that identifies key conflicts and describes systems in place to mitigate the conflicts. This policy is designed to act in conjunction with related policies and practices employed by other groups within the organization. Further, they complement those policies and practices by providing specific guidance on managing the conflicts of interests that may arise through SSGAs proxy voting activities.
Managing Conflicts of Interest Related to Proxy Voting
SSGA has policies and procedures designed to prevent undue influence on SSGAs voting activities that may arise from relationships between proxy issuers or companies and State Street Corporation (STT) SSGA, SSGA affiliates, SSGA Funds or SSGA Fund affiliates.
Protocols designed to help mitigate potential conflicts of interest include:
| | Providing sole voting discretion to members of SSGAs Corporate Governance Team. Members of the corporate governance team may from time to time discuss views on proxy voting matters, company performance, strategy etc. with other STT or SSGA employees including portfolio managers, senior executives and relationship managers. However, final voting decisions are made solely by the corporate governance team, in a manner that is consistent with the best interests of all clients, taking into account various perspectives on risks and opportunities with a view of maximizing the value of client assets; |
| | Exercising a singular vote decision for each ballot item regardless of SSGAs investment strategy; |
| | Prohibiting members of SSGAs corporate governance team from disclosing SSGAs voting decision to any individual not affiliated with the proxy voting process prior to the meeting or date of written consent, as the case may be; |
| | Mandatory disclosure by members of the SSGAs Corporate Governance Team, Global Proxy Review Committee (PRC) and Investment Committee (IC) of any personal conflict of interest (e.g., familial relationship with company management) to the Head of the Corporate Governance Team. Members are required to recuse themselves from any engagement or proxy voting activities related to the conflict; |
| | In certain instances, client accounts and/or SSGA pooled funds, where SSGA acts as trustee, may hold shares in STT or other SSGA affiliated entities, such as mutual funds affiliated with SSGA Funds Management, Inc. In general, SSGA will outsource any voting decision relating to a shareholder meeting of STT or other SSGA affiliated entities to independent outside third parties. Delegated third parties exercise vote decisions based upon SSGAs in-house policies; and |
| | Reporting of voting policy overrides, if any, to the PRC on a quarterly basis. |
In general, we do not believe matters that fall within the Guidelines and are voted consistently with the Guidelines present any potential conflicts, since the vote on the matter has effectively been determined without reference to the soliciting entity. However, where matters do not fall within the Guidelines or where we believe that voting in accordance with the Guidelines is unwarranted, we conduct an additional review to determine whether there is a conflict of interest. In circumstances where a conflict has been identified and either: (i) the matter does not fall clearly within the Guidelines; or (ii) SSGA determines that voting in accordance with such policies or guidance is not in the best interests of its clients, the Head of SSGAs Corporate Governance Team will determine whether a Material Relationship exists. If so, the matter is referred to the SSGA PRC. The SSGA PRC then reviews the matter and determines whether a conflict of interest exists, and if so, how to best resolve such conflict. For example, the SSGA PRC may (i) determine that the proxy vote does not give rise to a conflict due to the issues presented, (ii) refer the matter to the SSGA Investment Committee for further evaluation or (iii) retain an independent fiduciary to determine the appropriate vote.
2
ssga.com
State Street Global Advisors Worldwide Entities
Australia
: State Street Global Advisors, Australia, Limited (ABN 42 003 914 225) is the holder of an
Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL Number 238276). Registered Office: Level 17, 420 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia. T: +612 9240 7600. F: +612 9240 7611.
Belgium
: State Street Global Advisors Belgium,
Chausse de La Hulpe 120, 1000 Brussels, Belgium. T: +32 2 663 2036, F: +32 2 672 2077. SSGA Belgium is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by
the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom.
Canada
: State Street Global Advisors, Ltd., 770 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 1200 Montreal, Quebec, H3A 1G1, T: +514 282 2400 and 30 Adelaide Street East Suite 500, Toronto, Ontario M5C
3G6. T: +647 775 5900.
Dubai
: State Street Bank and Trust Company (Representative Office), Boulevard Plaza 1, 17th Floor, Office 1703 Near Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa, P.O Box 26838, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
T: +971 (0)4 4372800. F: +971 (0)4 4372818.
France
: State Street Global Advisors France. Authorised and regulated by the Autorité des Marchés Financiers. Registered with the Register of Commerce and Companies of
Nanterre under the number: 412 052 680. Registered Office: Immeuble Défense Plaza, 23-25 rue Delarivière-Lefoullon, 92064 Paris La Défense Cedex, France. T: +33 1 44 45 40 00. F: +33 1 44 45 41 92.
Germany
: State Street Global Advisors GmbH, Brienner Strasse 59, D-80333 Munich. T: +49 (0)89 55878 100. F: +49 (0)89 55878 440.
Hong Kong
: State Street Global Advisors Asia Limited, 68/F, Two International Finance
Centre, 8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong. T: +852 2103 0288. F: +852 2103 0200.
Ireland
: State Street Global Advisors Ireland Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Incorporated and registered in Ireland at Two Park
Place, Upper Hatch Street, Dublin 2. Registered Number: 145221. Member of the Irish Association of Investment Managers. T: +353 (0)1 776 3000. F: +353 (0)1 776 3300.
Italy
: State Street Global Advisors Italy, Sede Secondaria di
Milano, Via dei Bossi, 4 20121 Milan, Italy. T: +39 02 32066 100. F: +39 02 32066 155. State Street Global Advisors Italy is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is
authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom.
Japan
: State Street Global Advisors (Japan) Co., Ltd., 9-7-1 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-6239. T: +813 4530 7380. Financial Instruments Business Operator,
Kanto Local Financial Bureau (Kinsho #345). Japan Investment Advisers Association, Investment Trusts Association Japan, Japan Securities Dealers Association.
Netherland
s: State Street Global Advisors Netherlands, Adam Smith Building, Thomas
Malthusstraat 1-3, 1066 JR Amsterdam, Netherlands. T: +31 (0)20 7181701. State Street Global Advisors Netherlands is a branch office of State Street Global Advisors Limited. State Street Global Advisors Limited is authorised and regulated by the
Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom.
Singapore
: State Street Global Advisors Singapore Limited, 168, Robinson Road,
#33-01
Capital Tower, Singapore 068912 (Company Registered Number:
200002719D). T: +65 6826 7500. F: +65 6826 7501.
Switzerland
: State Street Global Advisors AG, Beethovenstr. 19, CH-8027 Zurich.
T: +41 (0)44 245 70 00.
F: +41 (0)44 245 70 16.
United Kingdom
: State Street Global Advisors Limited. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England. Registered Number: 2509928. VAT Number: 5776591 81.
Registered Office: 20 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5HJ. T: +020 3395 6000. F: +020 3395 6350.
United States
: State Street Global Advisors, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111-2900. T: +617 664 7727.
The views expressed in this material are the views of Feely, John S through the period ended February 28, 2015 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. The information provided does not constitute investment advice and it should not be relied on as such. It should not be considered a solicitation to buy or an offer to sell a security. It does not take into account any investors particular investment objectives, strategies, tax status or investment horizon. You should consult your tax and financial advisor. All material has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. There is no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information and State Street shall have no liability for decisions based on such information. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results.
Investing involves risk including the risk of loss of principal.
Risk associated with equity investing include stock values which may fluctuate in response to the activities of individual companies and general market and economic conditions.
Standard & Poors (S&P) S&P Indices are a registered trademark of Standard & Poors Financial Services LLC.
© 2015 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
ID3455-INST-5419 0315 Exp. Date: 03/31/2016
PART C
OTHER INFORMATION
| ITEM 28. | EXHIBITS |
| EXHIBITS | ||
| (a)(i) | Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of The Select Sector SPDR Trust (the Trust or Registrant), originally dated June 9, 1998 and as last amended and restated October 23, 1998, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (b)(i) of Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on November 17, 1998. | |
| (a)(ii) | Amendment No. 1 dated August 1, 2007 to the Registrants Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (a)(iv) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 25, 2008. | |
| (b) | Registrants Amended and Restated By-Laws, dated September 14, 2015, are filed herewith. | |
| (c) | Form of Global Certificate of Beneficial Interest, evidencing shares of Beneficial Interest, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (b)(4) of Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on November 17, 1998. | |
| (d)(i) | Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and SSGA Funds Management, Inc., dated December 1, 2003, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(iii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 28, 2004. | |
| (d)(ii) | Amendment dated January 27, 2006 to the Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(iv) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 25, 2008. | |
| (d)(iii) | Revised Exhibit A dated February 1, 2011 to the Investment Advisory Agreement dated December 1, 2003 between the Trust and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(iii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 17 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 27, 2011. | |
| (d)(iv) | Revised Exhibit A dated June 1, 2014 to the Investment Advisory Agreement dated December 1, 2003 between the Trust and SSGA Funds Management, Inc., as amended, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(iv) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 28, 2015. | |
| (d)(v) | Revised Exhibit A dated October 6, 2015 to the Investment Advisory Agreement dated December 1, 2003 between the Trust and SSGA Funds Management, Inc., as amended, adding The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund and The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund, is filed herewith. | |
| (d)(vi) | Form of Expense Limitation Agreement between the Trust and SSGA Funds Management, Inc., is filed herewith. | |
| (e)(i)(1) | Distribution Agreement between the Trust and ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., dated October 1, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(i) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 23 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 28, 2014. | |
| (2) | Amendment dated October 5, 2015 to the Distribution Agreement between the Trust and ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. is filed herewith. | |
| (e)(ii) | Form of Soliciting Dealer Agreement is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (b)(6)(d) of Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on November 17, 1998. | |
| (f) | Not applicable | |
| (g)(i) | Custodian Agreement between the Trust and State Street Bank and Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (b)(8) of Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on November 17, 1998. | |
| (g)(ii)(1) | Amendment dated November 11, 2005 to the Custodian Agreement between the Trust and State Street Bank and Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (g)(ii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 11 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 27, 2006. | |
| (2) | Form of amendment dated October 6, 2015 to the Custodian Agreement between the Trust and State Street Bank and Trust Company is filed herewith. | |
| (h)(i)(1) | Form of Administration Agreement between the Trust and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. is filed herewith. | |
| (2) | Revised Schedule A to the Administration Agreement between the Trust and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. dated October 6, 2015, adding The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund and The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund, is filed herewith. | |
| (3) | Sub-Administration Agreement dated June 1, 2015 between SSGA Funds Management, Inc. and State Street Bank and Trust Company is filed herewith. | |
| (4) | Revised Schedule A dated October 6, 2015 to the Sub-Administration Agreement between SSGA Funds Management, Inc. and State Street Bank and Trust Company, adding The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund and The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund, is filed herewith. | |
| (h)(ii)(1) | Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between the Trust and State Street Bank and Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (b)(9)(b) of Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on November 17, 1998. | |
| (2) | Amendment dated October 31, 2006 to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(vi) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 25, 2008. | |
| (3) | Revised Annex A (Schedule of Series) dated October 6, 2015 to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between the Trust and State Street Bank and Trust Company, adding The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund and The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund, is filed herewith. | |
| (h)(iii)(1) | Sub-License Agreement between the Trust, Merrill Lynch and Standard & Poors dated December 15, 1998 is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (b)(9)(c) of Pre-Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on December 15, 1998. | |
| (2) | Amendment dated October 17, 2008 to the Sub-License Agreement between the Trust, Merrill Lynch and Standard & Poors is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(x) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 14 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 28, 2009. | |
| (3) | Amendment dated March 5, 2014 to the Sub-License Agreement between the Trust, Merrill Lynch and Standard & Poors is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(iii)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 27 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on July 24, 2015. | |
| (4) | Amendment dated July 22, 2015 to the Sub-License Agreement between the Trust, Merrill Lynch and Standard & Poors is filed herewith. | |
| (h)(iv)(1) | Securities Lending Authorization Agreement between the Trust and State Street Bank and Trust Company is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(v) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 25, 2008. | |
| (2) | Revised Schedule B (Schedule of Series) dated October 6, 2015 to the Securities Lending Authorization Agreement between the Trust and State Street Bank and Trust Company, adding The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund and The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund, is filed herewith. | |
| (h)(v) | Form of Participant Agreement is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(viii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 23 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 28, 2014. | |
| (i)(1) | Opinion of Gordon Altman Butowsky Weitzen Shalov & Wein is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (b)(10) of Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on November 17, 1998. | |
| (2) | Opinion of Clifford Chance US LLP is filed herewith. | |
| (j) | Not applicable. | |
| (k) | Not applicable. | |
| (l) | Subscription Agreement(s) between the Trust and ALPS Mutual Funds Services, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (b)(13) of Pre-Effective Amendment No. 3 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on December 15, 1998. | |
| (m)(i)(1) | Distribution and Service Plans (12b-1 Plans) are incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(i) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 23 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 28, 2014. | |
| (2) | Distribution and Service Plans (12b-1 Plans) for The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund and The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund are filed herewith. | |
| (m)(ii) | Form of Investor Services Agreement is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (b)(6)(c) of Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on November 17, 1998. | |
| (m)(iii)(1) | Marketing Agreement between the Trust and ALPS Fund Services, Inc. dated October 1, 2013 is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(iii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 23 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 28, 2014. | |
| (2) | Amendment dated October 5, 2015 to the Marketing Agreement between the Trust and ALPS Funds Services, Inc. is filed herewith. | |
| (m)(iv)(1) | Distribution and Service Fee Agreement dated October 1, 2013 between the Trust and ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(iv) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 23 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 28, 2014. | |
| (2) | Amendment dated October 5, 2015 to the Distribution and Service Fee Agreement between the Trust and ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. is filed herewith. | |
| (n) | Not applicable. | |
| (p)(i) | Code of Ethics of the Trust is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(i) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 25, 2008. | |
| (p)(ii) | Code of Ethics of the Adviser is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(ii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 23 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 28, 2014. | |
| (p)(iii) | Code of Ethics of the Distributor is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(iii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 27 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on July 24, 2015. | |
| (q)(i) | Power of Attorney for Mmes. Burgermeister and Needham, and Messrs. Gaspari, Hallett, Ross, Scalberg and Tschampion is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (q) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to the Registrants Registration Statement on Form N-1A, as filed with the SEC on January 28, 2015. | |
| (q)(ii) | Power of Attorney for Ms. Rabun is filed herewith. | |
| ITEM 29. | PERSONS CONTROLLED BY OR UNDER COMMON CONTROL WITH REGISTRANT |
See the Control Persons and Principal Holders of Securities section of the Statement of Additional Information for a list of shareholders who own more than 5% of a specific funds outstanding shares and such information is incorporated by reference to this Item.
| ITEM 30. | INDEMNIFICATION |
Pursuant to Section 5.3 of the Registrants Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust and under Section 4.9 of the Registrants Amended and Restated By-Laws, the Trust will indemnify any person who is, or has been, a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust against all expenses reasonably incurred or paid by him/her in connection with any claim, action, suit or proceeding in which he/she becomes involved as a party or otherwise by virtue of his/her being or having been a Trustee, officer, employee or agent and against amounts paid or incurred by him/her in the settlement thereof, if he/she acted in good faith and in a manner he/she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Trust, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his/her conduct was unlawful. In addition, indemnification is permitted only if it is determined that the actions in question did not render him/her liable by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of his/her duties or by reason of reckless disregard of his/her obligations and duties to the Registrant. The Registrant may also advance money for litigation expenses provided that Trustees, officers, employees and/or agents give their undertakings to repay the Registrant unless their conduct is later determined to permit indemnification. Pursuant to Section 5.2 of the Registrants Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, no Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Registrant shall be liable for any action or failure to act, except in the case of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence or reckless disregard of duties to the Registrant. Pursuant to paragraph 9 of the Registrants Investment Advisory Agreement, the Adviser shall not be liable for any action or failure to act, except in the case of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence or reckless disregard of duties to the Registrant.
Insofar as indemnification for liability arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the provisions of Rule 484 under the Act, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the 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, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
The Registrant hereby undertakes that it will apply the indemnification provision of its by-laws in a manner consistent with Release 11330 of the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Company Act of 1940, so long as the interpretation of Sections 17(h) and 17(i) of such Act remains in effect.
The Registrant maintains insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of Registrant, or who is or was serving at the request of Registrant as a trustee, director, officer, employee or agent of another trust or corporation, against any liability asserted against him/her and incurred by him/her or arising out of his/her position. However, in no event will Registrant maintain insurance to indemnify any such person for any act for which Registrant itself is not permitted to indemnify him/her.
| ITEM 31. | BUSINESS AND OTHER CONNECTIONS OF INVESTMENT ADVISER |
Any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature in which each director or principal officer of each investment adviser is or has been, at any time during the last two fiscal years, engaged for his or her own account or in the capacity of director, officer, employee, partner or trustee are as follows:
SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (SSGA FM or the Adviser) serves as the investment adviser for each series of the Trust. SSGA FM is a wholly-owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation, a publicly held bank holding company. SSGA FM and certain other advisory affiliates of State Street Corporation make up State Street Global Advisors (SSGA), the investment management arm of State Street Corporation. The principal address of the Adviser is State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111. SSGA FM is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
| Name |
Capacity With Adviser |
Business Name and Address of Other Position | ||
| Keith Crawford | Treasurer | Chief Financial Officer and Global Head of Strategy, State Street Global Advisors, a division of State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston, MA | ||
| Alyssa Albertelli |
Chief Compliance
Officer |
Chief Compliance Officer, State Street Global Advisors, a division of State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston, MA | ||
| James E. Ross | Chairman & Director | Executive Vice President, State Street Global Advisors, a division of State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston, MA | ||
| Ellen Needham | President & Director | Senior Managing Director, State Street Global Advisors, a division of State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston, MA | ||
| Phillip Gillespie | Chief Legal Officer | General Counsel, State Street Global Advisors, a division of State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston, MA | ||
| Kristi Mitchem |
CTA Chief
Marketing Officer |
Executive Vice President, State Street Global Advisors, a division of State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston, MA | ||
| Name |
Capacity With Adviser |
Business Name and Address of Other Position | ||
|
Barry Smith |
Director | Senior Managing Director, State Street Global Advisors, a division of State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston, MA | ||
|
Ann Carpenter |
Chief Operating
Officer |
Vice President, State Street Global Advisors, a division of State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston, MA | ||
See Management in the Prospectus and Management of the Trust in the Statement of Additional Information for information regarding the business of the Adviser. For information regarding broker-dealers and investment advisers affiliated with the Adviser, reference is made to the Advisers Form ADV, as amended, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and incorporated herein by reference.
| ITEM 32. | Principal Underwriters. |
(a) ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. acts as the distributor for the Registrant and the following investment companies: ALPS ETF Trust, ALPS Variable Investment Trust, Clough Funds Trust, Financial Investors Trust, and Select Sector SPDR Trust.
(b) To the best of Registrants knowledge, the directors and executive officers of ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., are as follows:
|
Name* |
Position with Underwriter |
Position with Fund | ||
| Edmund J. Burke | Director | None | ||
| Thomas A. Carter | President, Director | None | ||
| Jeremy O. May | Executive Vice President, Director | None | ||
| Bradley J. Swenson | Senior Vice President | None | ||
| Robert J. Szydlowski | Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer | None | ||
| Aisha J. Hunt | Senior Vice President, Assistant Secretary, General Counsel | None | ||
| Gregg Wm. Givens** | Vice President, Treasurer and Assistant Secretary | None | ||
| Troy A. Duran | Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer | None | ||
| Eric Parsons | Vice President, Controller and Assistant Treasurer | None | ||
| Randall D. Young** | Secretary | None | ||
| Douglas W. Fleming** | Assistant Treasurer | None | ||
| Steven Price | Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer | None | ||
| Daniel Dolan | Senior Vice President | None | ||
| Kevin J. Ireland | Senior Vice President | None | ||
| Mark R. Kiniry | Senior Vice President | None | ||
| Liza Orr | Vice President, Senior Counsel | None | ||
| Jed Stahl | Vice President, Senior Counsel | None | ||
| Terence Digan | Vice President | None | ||
| * | Except as otherwise noted, the principal business address for each of the above directors and executive officers is 1290 Broadway, Suite 1100, Denver, Colorado 80203. |
| ** | The principal business address for Messrs. Givens, Young and Fleming is 333 W. 11th Street, 5th Floor, Kansas City, Missouri 64105. |
(c) Not Applicable
| ITEM 33. | LOCATION OF ACCOUNTS AND RECORD |
All accounts, books and other documents required to be maintained by Section 31(a) of the 1940 Act and the Rules thereunder are maintained at the offices of SSgA Funds Management, Inc. and/or State Street Bank and Trust Company, each with offices located at One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.
| ITEM 34. | MANAGEMENT SERVICES |
Not applicable.
| ITEM 35. | UNDERTAKINGS |
Not applicable.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, The Select Sector SPDR Trust, the Registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for effectiveness of this Registration Statement pursuant to Rule 485(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and has duly caused this Amendment to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, on the 6 th day of October, 2015.
| THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST | ||
| By: |
/s/ Ellen M. Needham |
|
| Ellen M. Needham | ||
| President | ||
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Amendment to the Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities and on the date indicated.
| Signature | Title | Date | ||
|
/s/ Cheryl Burgermeister* Cheryl Burgermeister |
Trustee | October 6, 2015 | ||
|
/s/ George R. Gaspari* George R. Gaspari |
Trustee | October 6, 2015 | ||
|
/s/ Ashley T. Rabun* Ashley T. Rabun |
Trustee | October 6, 2015 | ||
|
/s/ Ernest J. Scalberg* Ernest J. Scalberg |
Trustee | October 6, 2015 | ||
|
/s/ R. Charles Tschampion* R. Charles Tschampion |
Trustee | October 6, 2015 | ||
|
/s/ James E. Ross* James E. Ross |
Trustee | October 6, 2015 | ||
|
/s/ Chad C. Hallett Chad C. Hallett |
Treasurer and Principal Financial Officer | October 6, 2015 | ||
|
/s/ Ellen M. Needham Ellen M. Needham |
President and Principal Executive Officer | October 6, 2015 | ||
| *By: |
/s/ Jesse D. Hallee |
|
| Jesse D. Hallee | ||
| As Attorney-in-Fact | ||
| Pursuant to Power of Attorney |
EXHIBIT INDEX
| (b) | Amended and Restated Bylaws | |
| (d)(v) | Revised Exhibit A to the Investment Advisory Agreement | |
| (d)(vi) | Form of Expense Limitation Agreement | |
| (e)(i)(2) | Amendment to the Distribution Agreement | |
| (g)(ii)(2) | Form of amendment to the Custodian Agreement | |
| (h)(i)(1) | Form of Administration Agreement | |
| (h)(i)(2) | Revised Schedule A to the Administration Agreement | |
| (h)(i)(3) | Sub-Administration Agreement | |
| (h)(i)(4) | Revised Schedule A to the Sub-Administration Agreement | |
| (h)(ii)(3) | Revised Annex A to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement | |
| (h)(iii)(4) | Amendment to the Sub-License Agreement | |
| (h)(iv)(2) | Revised Schedule B to the Securities Lending Authorization Agreement | |
| (i)(2) | Opinion of Clifford Chance US LLP | |
| (m)(i)(2) | Distribution and Service Plans (12b-1 Plans) | |
| (m)(iii)(2) | Amendment to the Marketing Agreement | |
| (m)(iv)(2) | Amendment to the Distribution and Service Fee Agreement | |
| (q)(ii) | Power of Attorney for Ms. Rabun | |
Exhibit (b)
AMENDED AND RESTATED BYLAWS
OF
THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
ARTICLE I
Definitions
All words and terms capitalized in these Bylaws shall have the meaning or meanings set forth for such words or terms in the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust, dated October 23, 1998, as may be amended from time to time.
ARTICLE II
Offices
Section 2.1. Principal Office . Until changed by the Trustees, the principal office of the Trust in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts shall be in the City of Boston, County of Suffolk.
Section 2.2. Other Offices . In addition to its principal office in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the Trust may have an office or offices in the City of New York, State of New York, and at such other places within and without The Commonwealth as the Trustees may from time to time designate or the business of the Trust may require.
ARTICLE III
Shareholders Meetings
Section 3.1. Place of Meetings . Meetings of Shareholders shall be held at such place, within or without The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, as may be designated from time to time by the Trustees.
Section 3.2. Meetings . Meetings of Shareholders of the Trust shall be held whenever called by the Trustees or the President of the Trust and whenever election of a Trustee or Trustees by Shareholders is required by the provisions of Section 16(a) of the 1940 Act, for that purpose. Meetings of Shareholders shall also be called by the Secretary upon the written request of the holders of Shares entitled to vote not less than twenty-five percent (25%) of all the votes entitled to be cast at such meeting except to the extent otherwise required by Section 16(c) of the 1940 Act, as is made applicable to the Trust by the provisions of Section 2.3 of the Declaration. Such request shall state the purpose or purposes of such meeting and the matters proposed to be acted on thereat. The Secretary shall inform such Shareholders of the reasonable estimated cost of preparing and mailing such notice of the meeting, and upon payment to the Trust of such costs, the Secretary shall give notice stating the purpose or purposes of the meeting to all entitled to vote at such meeting. No meeting need be called upon the request of the holders of Shares entitled to cast less than a majority of all votes entitled to be cast at such meeting, to consider any matter which is substantially the same as a matter voted upon at any meeting of Shareholders held during the preceding twelve months.
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Section 3.3. Notice of Meetings . Written or printed notice of every Shareholders meeting stating the place, date, and purpose or purposes thereof, shall be given by the Secretary not less than ten (10) nor more than ninety (90) days before such meeting to each Shareholder entitled to vote at such meeting. Such notice shall be deemed to be given when deposited in the United States mail, postage prepaid, directed to the Shareholder at his or her address as it appears on the records of the Trust.
Section 3.4. Quorum and Adjournment of Meetings . Except as otherwise provided by law, by the Declaration or by these Bylaws, at all meetings of Shareholders, the holders of a majority of the Shares issued and outstanding and entitled to vote thereat, present in person or represented by proxy, shall be requisite and shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. In the absence of a quorum, the Shareholders present or represented by proxy and entitled to vote thereat shall have the power to adjourn the meeting from time to time. The Shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at any meeting and entitled to vote thereat also shall have the power to adjourn the meeting from time to time if the vote required to approve or reject any proposal described in the original notice of such meeting is not obtained (with proxies being voted for or against adjournment consistent with the votes for and against the proposal for which the required vote has not been obtained). The affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the Shares then present in person or represented by proxy shall be required to adjourn any meeting. Any adjourned meeting may be reconvened without further notice or change in record date. At any reconvened meeting at which a quorum shall be present, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the meeting as originally called.
Section 3.5. Voting Rights, Proxies . At each meeting of Shareholders, each holder of record of Shares entitled to vote thereat shall be entitled to one vote in person or by proxy, executed in writing by the Shareholder or his or her duly authorized attorney-in-fact, for each Share of beneficial interest of the Trust and for the fractional portion of one vote for each fractional Share entitled to vote so registered in his or her name on the records of the Trust on the date fixed as the record date for the determination of Shareholders entitled to vote at such meeting. No proxy shall be valid after eleven months from its date, unless otherwise provided in the proxy. At all meetings of Shareholders, unless the voting is conducted by inspectors, all questions relating to the qualification of voters and the validity of proxies and the acceptance or rejection of votes shall be decided by the chair of the meeting. Pursuant to a resolution of a majority of the Trustees, proxies may be solicited in the name of one or more Trustees or officers of the Trust.
Section 3.6. Vote Required . Except as otherwise provided by law, by the Declaration, or by these Bylaws, at each meeting of Shareholders at which a quorum is present, all matters shall be decided by Majority Shareholder Vote.
Section 3.7. Inspectors of Election . In advance of any meeting of Shareholders, the Trustees may appoint Inspectors of Election to act at the meeting or any adjournment thereof. If Inspectors of Election are not so appointed, the chair of any meeting of Shareholders may, and on the request of any Shareholder or his or her proxy shall, appoint Inspectors of Election of the
2
meeting. In case any person appointed as Inspector fails to appear or refuses to act, the vacancy may be filled by appointment made by the Trustees in advance of the convening of the meeting or at the meeting by the person acting as chair. The Inspectors of Election shall determine the number of Shares outstanding, the Shares represented at the meeting, the existence of a quorum, the authenticity, validity and effect of proxies, shall receive votes, ballots or consents, shall hear and determine all challenges and questions in any way arising in connection with the right to vote, shall count and tabulate all votes or consents, determine the results, and do such other acts as may be proper to conduct the election or vote with fairness to all Shareholders. On request of the chair of the meeting, or of any Shareholder or his or her proxy, the Inspectors of Election shall make a report in writing of any challenge or question or matter determined by them and shall execute a certificate of any facts found by them.
Section 3.8. Inspection of Books and Records . Shareholders shall have such rights and procedures of inspection of the books and records of the Trust as are granted to Shareholders under the Corporations and Associations Law of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Section 3.9. Action by Shareholders Without Meeting . Except as otherwise provided by law, the provisions of these Bylaws relating to notices and meetings to the contrary notwithstanding, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of Shareholders may be taken without a meeting if a majority of the Shareholders entitled to vote upon the action consent to the action in writing and such consents are filed with the records of the Trust. Such consent shall be treated for all purposes as a vote taken at a meeting of Shareholders.
Section 3.10. Presence at Meetings . Presence at meetings of Shareholders requires physical attendance by the Shareholder or his or her proxy at the meeting site and does not encompass attendance by telephonic or other electronic means.
ARTICLE IV
Trustees
Section 4.1. Meetings of the Trustees . The Trustees may in their discretion provide for regular or special meetings of the Trustees. Regular meetings of the Trustees may be held at such time and place as shall be determined from time to time by the Trustees without further notice. Special meetings of the Trustees may be called at any time by the Chair and shall be called by the President or the Secretary upon the written request of any two (2) Trustees.
Section 4.2. Notice of Special Meetings . Written notice of special meetings of the Trustees, stating the place, date and time thereof, shall be given not less than two (2) days before such meeting to each Trustee, by mail, by email, and by contacting such Trustee by telephone or leaving such telephonic notice at his or her place of residence or usual place of business. When mailed, such notice shall be deemed to be given when deposited in the United States mail, postage prepaid, directed to the Trustee at his or her address as it appears on the records of the Trust. Subject to the provisions of the 1940 Act, notice or waiver of notice need not specify the purpose of any special meeting.
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Section 4.3. Telephone Meetings . Subject to the provisions of the 1940 Act, any Trustee, or any member or members of any committee designated by the Trustees, may participate in a meeting of the Trustees, or any such committee, as the case may be, by means of a conference telephone or similar communications equipment if all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other at the same time. Participation in a meeting by these means constitutes presence in person at the meeting.
Section 4.4. Quorum, Voting and Adjournment of Meetings . At all meetings of the Trustees, a majority of the Trustees shall be requisite to and shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. If a quorum is present, the affirmative vote of a majority of the Trustees present shall be the act of the Trustees, unless the concurrence of a greater proportion is expressly required for such action by law, the Declaration or these Bylaws. If at any meeting of the Trustees there be less than a quorum present, the Trustees present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall have been obtained.
Section 4.5. Action by Trustees Without Meeting . The provisions of these Bylaws covering notices and meetings to the contrary notwithstanding, and except as required by law, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Trustees may be taken without a meeting if a consent in writing setting forth the action shall be signed by all of the Trustees entitled to vote upon the action and such written consent is filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Trustees.
Section 4.6. The Chair . (a) The Chair shall be selected by the Trustees, shall preside at all meetings of the Trustees, and shall perform such other duties as the Trustees may from time to time prescribe.
(b) In the absence of the Chair, any other Trustee, selected by the Board of Trustees, shall preside at meetings of the Board of Trustees; and he or she shall perform such other duties as the Board of Trustees may from time to time prescribe
Section 4.7. Expenses and Fees . Each Trustee may be allowed expenses, if any, for attendance at each regular or special meeting of the Trustees, and each Trustee who is not an officer or employee of the Trust or of its investment manager or underwriter or of any corporate affiliate of any of said persons shall receive for services rendered as a Trustee of the Trust such compensation as may be fixed by the Trustees. Nothing herein contained shall be construed to preclude any Trustee from serving the Trust in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefor.
Section 4.8. Execution of Instruments and Documents and Signing of Checks and Other Obligations and Transfers . All instruments, documents and other papers shall be executed in the name and on behalf of the Trust and all checks, notes, drafts and other obligations for the payment of money by the Trust shall be signed, and all transfer of securities standing in the name
4
of the Trust shall be executed, by the Chair, the President, any Vice President or the Treasurer or by any one or more officers or agents of the Trust as shall be designated for that purpose by vote of the Trustees; notwithstanding the above, nothing in this Section 4.7 shall be deemed to preclude the electronic authorization, by designated persons, of the Trusts Custodian (as described herein in Section 9.1) to transfer assets of the Trust, as provided for herein in Section 9.1.
Section 4.9. Indemnification of Trustees, Officers, Employees and Agents. (a) The Trust shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (other than an action by or in the right of the Trust) by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a Trustee, officer, employee, or agent of the Trust. The indemnification shall be against expenses, including attorneys fees, judgments, fines, and amounts paid in settlement, actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with the action, suit, or proceeding, if he or she acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Trust, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. The termination of any action, suit or proceeding by judgment, order, settlement, conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that the person did not act in good faith and in a manner which he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Trust, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had reasonable cause to believe that his or her conduct was unlawful.
(b) The Trust shall indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action or suit by or on behalf of the Trust to obtain a judgment or decree in its favor by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a Trustee, officer, employee, or agent of the Trust. The indemnification shall be against expenses, including attorneys fees actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with the defense or settlement of the action or suit, if he or she acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Trust; except that no indemnification shall be made in respect of any claim, issue, or matter as to which the person has been adjudged to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the performance of his or her duty to the Trust, except to the extent that the court in which the action or suit was brought, or a court of equity in the county in which the Trust has its principal office, determines upon application that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, the person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for those expenses which the court shall deem proper, provided such Trustee, officer, employee or agent is not adjudged to be liable by reason of his or her willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
(c) To the extent that a Trustee, officer, employee, or agent of the Trust has been successful on the merits or otherwise in defense of any action, suit or proceeding referred to in subsection (a) or (b) or in defense of any claim, issue or matter therein, he or she shall be indemnified against expenses, including attorneys fees, actually and reasonably incurred by him or her in connection therewith.
5
(d) (1) Unless a court orders otherwise, any indemnification under subsections (a) or (b) of this section may be made by the Trust only as authorized in the specific case after a determination that indemnification of the Trustee, officer, employee, or agent is proper in the circumstances because he or she has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in subsections (a) or (b).
| (2) | The determination shall be made: |
| (i) | By the Trustees, by a majority vote of a quorum which consists of Trustees who were not parties to the action, suit or proceeding; or |
| (ii) | If the required quorum is not obtainable, or if a quorum of disinterested Trustees so directs, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion; or |
| (iii) | By the Shareholders. |
| (3) | Notwithstanding any provision of this Section 4.9, no person shall be entitled to indemnification for any liability, whether or not there is an adjudication of liability, arising by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of duties as described in Section 17(h) and (i) of the 1940 Act (disabling conduct). A person shall be deemed not liable by reason of disabling conduct if, either: |
| (i) | a final decision on the merits is made by a court or other body before whom the proceeding was brought that the person to be indemnified (indemnitee) 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 indemnitee was not liable by reason of disabling conduct, is made by either |
| (A) | a majority of a quorum of Trustees who are neither interested persons of the Trust, as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act, nor parties to the action, suit or proceeding, or |
| (B) | an independent legal counsel in a written opinion. |
(e) Expenses, including attorneys fees, incurred by a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust in defending a civil or criminal action, suit or proceeding may be paid by the Trust in advance of the final disposition thereof if:
| (1) | authorized in the specific case by the Trustees; and |
6
| (2) | the Trust receives an undertaking by or on behalf of the Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust to repay the advance if it is not ultimately determined that such person is entitled to be indemnified by the Trust; and |
| (3) | either, (i) such person provides a security for his undertaking, or |
| (ii) | the Trust is insured against losses by reason of any lawful advances, or |
| (iii) | a determination, based on a review of readily available facts, that there is reason to believe that such person ultimately will be found entitled to indemnification, is made by either |
| (A) | a majority of a quorum of Trustees who are neither interested persons of the Trust, as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act, nor parties to the action, suit or proceeding, or |
| (B) | an independent legal counsel in a written opinion. |
(f) The indemnification provided by this Section shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which a person may be entitled under any by-law, agreement, vote of Shareholders or disinterested Trustees or otherwise, both as to action in his or her official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding the office, and shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a Trustee, officer, employee, or agent and inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such person; provided that no person may satisfy any right of indemnity or reimbursement granted herein or to which he or she may be otherwise entitled except out of the property of the Trust, and no Shareholder shall be personally liable with respect to any claim for indemnity or reimbursement or otherwise.
(g) The Trust may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a Trustee, officer, employee, or agent of the Trust, against any liability asserted against him or her and incurred by him or her in any such capacity, or arising out of his or her status as such. However, in no event will the Trust purchase insurance to indemnify any officer or Trustee against liability for any act for which the Trust itself is not permitted to indemnify him or her.
(h) Nothing contained in this Section shall be construed to protect any Trustee or officer of the Trust against any liability to the Trust or to its security holders to which he or she would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
ARTICLE V
Committees
Section 5.1. Executive and Other Committees . The Trustees, by resolution adopted by a majority of the Trustees, may designate an Executive Committee and/or committees, each
7
committee to consist of two (2) or more of the Trustees of the Trust and may delegate to such committees, in the intervals between meetings of the Trustees, any or all of the powers of the Trustees in the management of the business and affairs of the Trust. In the absence of any member of any such committee, the members thereof present at any meeting, whether or not they constitute a quorum, may appoint a Trustee to act in place of such absent member. Each such committee shall keep a record of its proceedings.
The Executive Committee and any other committee shall fix its own rules or procedures, but the presence of at least fifty percent (50%) of the members of the whole committee shall in each case be necessary to constitute a quorum of the committee and the affirmative vote of the majority of the members of the committee present at the meeting shall be necessary to take action.
All actions of the Executive Committee shall be reported to the Trustees at the meeting thereof next succeeding to the taking of such action.
Section 5.2. Advisory Committee . The Trustees may appoint an advisory committee which shall be composed of persons who do not serve the Trust in any other capacity and which shall have advisory functions with respect to the investments of the Trust but which shall have no power to determine that any security or other investment shall be purchased, sold or otherwise disposed of by the Trust. The number of persons constituting any such advisory committee shall be determined from time to time by the Trustees. The members of any such advisory committee may receive compensation for their services and may be allowed such fees and expenses for the attendance at meetings as the Trustees may from time to time determine to be appropriate.
Section 5.3. Committee Action Without Meeting . The provisions of these Bylaws covering notices and meetings to the contrary notwithstanding, and except as required by law, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of any Committee of the Trustees appointed pursuant to Section 5.1 of these Bylaws may be taken without a meeting if a consent in writing setting forth the action shall be signed by all members of the Committee entitled to vote upon the action and such written consent is filed with the records of the proceedings of the Committee.
ARTICLE VI
Officers
Section 6.1. Executive Officers . The executive officers of the Trust shall be a President, one or more Vice Presidents, a Secretary, a Treasurer and a Chief Compliance Officer. The executive officers need not be a Trustee. Two or more offices, except those of President and any Vice President, may be held by the same person, but no officer shall execute, acknowledge or verify any instrument in more than one capacity. The executive officers of the Trust shall be elected annually by the Trustees and each executive officer so elected shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and has qualified.
Section 6.2. Other Officers and Agents . The Trustees may also elect one or more Assistant Vice Presidents, Assistant Secretaries, Deputy Treasurers, Assistant Treasurers and other
8
officers, including Code of Ethics Compliance Officer, AML Compliance Officer, and Code of Conduct Compliance Officer, and may elect, or may delegate to the President the power to appoint, such other officers and agents as the Trustees shall at any time or from time to time deem advisable.
Section 6.3. Term and Removal and Vacancies . Each officer of the Trust shall hold office until his or her successor is elected and has qualified. Any officer or agent of the Trust may be removed by the Trustees whenever, in their judgment, the best interests of the Trust will be served thereby, but such removal shall be without prejudice to the contractual rights, if any, of the person so removed.
Section 6.4. Compensation of Officers . The compensation of officers and agents of the Trust shall be fixed by the Trustees, or by the President to the extent provided by the Trustees with respect to officers appointed by the President.
Section 6.5. Power and Duties . All officers and agents of the Trust, as between themselves and the Trust, shall have such authority and perform such duties in the management of the Trust as may be provided in or pursuant to these Bylaws, or to the extent not so provided, as may be prescribed by the Trustees; provided, that no rights of any third party shall be affected or impaired by any such Bylaw or resolution of the Trustees unless he or she has knowledge thereof.
Section 6.6. The President . The President shall be the chief executive officer and principal executive officer of the Trust; he or she shall have general and active management of the business of the Trust, shall see that all orders and resolutions of the Board of Trustees are carried into effect, and, in connection therewith, shall be authorized to delegate to one or more Vice Presidents or other officers such of his or her powers and duties at such times and in such manner as he or she may deem advisable. The President shall preside at all meetings of the shareholders and he or she shall perform such other duties as the Board of Trustees may from time to time prescribe.
Section 6.7. The Vice Presidents . The Vice Presidents shall be of such number and shall have such titles as may be determined from time to time by the Trustees. The Vice President, or, if there be more than one, the Vice Presidents in the order of their seniority as may be determined from time to time by the Trustees or the President, shall, in the absence or disability of the President, exercise the powers and perform the duties of the President, and he, she or they shall perform such other duties as the Trustees or the President may from time to time prescribe.
Section 6.8. The Assistant Vice Presidents . The Assistant Vice President, or, if there be more than one, the Assistant Vice Presidents, shall perform such duties and have such powers as may be assigned them from time to time by the Trustees or the President.
Section 6.9. The Secretary . The Secretary shall attend all meetings of the Trustees and all
9
meetings of the Shareholders and record all the proceedings of the meetings of the Shareholders and of the Trustees in a book to be kept for that purpose, and shall perform like duties for the standing committees when required. He or she shall give, or cause to be given, notice of all meetings of the Shareholders and special meetings of the Trustees, and shall perform such other duties and have such powers as the Trustees, or the President, may from time to time prescribe. He or she shall keep in safe custody the seal of the Trust and affix or cause the same to be affixed to any instrument requiring it, and, when so affixed, it shall be attested by his or her signature or by the signature of an Assistant Secretary.
Section 6.10. The Assistant Secretaries . The Assistant Secretary, or, if there be more than one, the Assistant Secretaries in the order determined by the Trustees or the President, shall, in the absence or disability of the Secretary, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the Secretary and shall perform such duties and have such other powers as the Trustees or the President may from time to time prescribe.
Section 6.11. The Treasurer . The Treasurer shall be the chief financial officer, principal accounting officer and principal financial officer of the Trust. He or she shall keep or cause to be kept full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the Trust, and he or she shall render to the Trustees and the President, whenever any of them require it, an account of his or her transactions as Treasurer and of the financial condition of the Trust; and he or she shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Trustees, or the President may from time to time prescribe.
Section 6.12. The Deputy Treasurers . The Deputy Treasurer, or, if there shall be more than one, the Deputy Treasurers in the order determined by the Trustees, the President or the Treasurer, shall, in the absence or disability of the Treasurer or at the discretion of the Treasurer, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the Treasurer and shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the Trustees, or the President, may from time to time prescribe.
Section 6.13. The Assistant Treasurers . The Assistant Treasurer, or, if there shall be more than one, the Assistant Treasurers in the order determined by the Trustees, the President or the Treasurer, shall perform certain duties of the Treasurer which the Trustees, the President, the Treasurer or the Deputy Treasurer, may from time to time prescribe, including, but not limited to, acting as an authorized signer of the Trust.
Section 6.14 Chief Compliance Officer. The Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) shall perform the functions of the Trusts chief compliance officer as described in Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act. The CCO shall have primary responsibility for administering the Trusts compliance policies and procedures adopted pursuant to Rule 38a-1 (the Compliance Program) and reviewing the Compliance Program, in the manner specified in Rule 38a-1, at least annually, or as may be required by Rule 38a-1 as such rule may be amended from time to time. The CCO shall report directly to the Independent Trustees regarding the Compliance Program.
Section 6.15 Other Officers. The Code of Ethics Compliance Officer, AML Compliance Officer
10
and Code of Conduct Compliance Officer shall each perform such duties as may be outlined from time to time in the Trusts Code of Ethics, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Procedures and Code of Conduct, respectively, including receiving such reports as may be required under such documents and making such reports to the Board of Trustees of the Trust with respect to compliance under such Code of Ethics, AML Procedures and Code of Conduct.
Section 6.16. Delegation of Duties . Whenever an officer is absent or disabled, or whenever for any reason the Trustees may deem it desirable, the Trustees may delegate the powers and duties of an officer or officers to any other officer or officers or to any Trustee or Trustees.
ARTICLE VII
Dividends and Distributions
Subject to any applicable provisions of law and the Declaration, dividends and distributions upon the Shares may be declared at such intervals as the Trustees may determine, in cash, in securities or other property, or in Shares, from any sources permitted by law, all as the Trustees shall from time to time determine.
Inasmuch as the computation of net income and net profits from the sales of securities or other properties for federal income tax purposes may vary from the computation thereof on the records of the Trust, the Trustees shall have power, in their discretion, to distribute as income dividends and as capital gain distributions, respectively, amounts sufficient to enable the Trust to avoid or reduce liability for federal income taxes.
ARTICLE VIII
Certificates of Shares
Section 8.1. Certificates of Shares . Certificates for Shares of each series or class of Shares shall be in such form and of such design as the Trustees shall approve, subject to the right of the Trustees to change such form and design at any time or from time to time, and shall be entered in the records of the Trust as they are issued. Each such certificate shall bear a distinguishing number; shall exhibit the holders name and certify the number of full Shares owned by such holder; shall be signed by or in the name of the Trust by the President, or a Vice President, and countersigned by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary or the Treasurer, a Deputy Treasurer or an Assistant Treasurer of the Trust; shall be sealed with the seal; and shall contain such recitals as may be required by law. Where any certificate is signed by a Transfer Agent or by a Registrar, the signature of such officers and the seal may be facsimile, printed or engraved. The Trust may, at its option, determine not to issue a certificate or certificates to evidence Shares owned of record by any Shareholder.
In case any officer or officers who shall have signed, or whose facsimile signature or signatures shall appear on, any such certificate or certificates shall cease to be such officer or officers of the Trust, whether because of death, resignation or otherwise, before such certificate or certificates shall have been delivered by the Trust, such certificate or certificates shall, nevertheless, be
11
adopted by the Trust and be issued and delivered as though the person or persons who signed such certificate or certificates or whose facsimile signature or signatures shall appear therein had not ceased to be such officer or officers of the Trust.
No certificate shall be issued for any Share until such Share is fully paid.
Section 8.2. Lost, Stolen, Destroyed and Mutilated Certificates . The Trustees may direct a new certificate or certificates to be issued in place of any certificate or certificates theretofore issued by the Trust alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed, upon satisfactory proof of such loss, theft, or destruction; and the Trustees may, in their discretion, require the owner of the lost, stolen or destroyed certificate, or his or her legal representative, to give to the Trust and to such Registrar, Transfer Agent and/or Transfer Clerk as may be authorized or required to countersign such new certificate or certificates, a bond in such sum and of such type as they may direct, and with such surety or sureties, as they may direct, as indemnity against any claim that may be against them or any of them on account of or in connection with the alleged loss, theft or destruction of any such certificate.
ARTICLE IX
Custodian
Section 9.1. Appointment and Duties. The Trust shall at times employ a bank or trust company having capital, surplus and undivided profits of at least five million dollars ($5,000,000) as custodian with authority as its agent, but subject to such restrictions, limitations and other requirements, if any, as may be contained in these Bylaws and the 1940 Act:
| (1) | to receive and hold the securities owned by the Trust and deliver the same upon written or electronically transmitted order; |
| (2) | to receive and hold any monies due to the Trust and deposit the same in its own banking department or elsewhere as the Trustees may direct; |
| (3) | to disburse such funds upon orders or vouchers; |
all upon such basis of compensation as may be agreed upon between the Trustees and the custodian. If so directed by a Majority Shareholder Vote, the custodian shall deliver and pay over all property of the Trust held by it as specified in such vote.
The Trustees may also authorize the custodian to employ one or more sub-custodians from time to time to perform such of the acts and services of the custodian and upon such terms and conditions as may be agreed upon between the custodian and such sub-custodian and approved by the Trustees.
Section 9.2. Central Certificate System. Subject to such rules, regulations and orders as the Commission may adopt, the Trustees may direct the custodian to deposit all or any part of the
12
securities owned by the Trust in a system for the central handling of securities established by a national securities exchange or a national securities association registered with the Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or such other person as may be permitted by the Commission, or otherwise in accordance with the 1940 Act, pursuant to which system all securities of any particular class or series of any issuer deposited within the system are treated as fungible and may be transferred or pledged by bookkeeping entry without physical delivery of such securities, provided that all such deposits shall be subject to withdrawal only upon the order of the Trust.
ARTICLE X
Waiver of Notice
Whenever any notice of the time, place or purpose of any meeting of Shareholders, Trustees, or of any committee is required to be given in accordance with law or under the provisions of the Declaration or these Bylaws, a waiver thereof in writing, signed by the person or persons entitled to such notice and filed with the records of the meeting, whether before or after the holding thereof, or actual attendance at the meeting of Shareholders, Trustees or committee, as the case may be, in person, shall be deemed equivalent to the giving of such notice to such person.
ARTICLE XI
Miscellaneous
Section 11.1. Location of Books and Records. The books and records of the Trust may be kept outside The Commonwealth of Massachusetts at such place or places as the Trustees may from time to time determine, except as otherwise required by law.
Section 11.2. Record Date . The Trustees may fix in advance a date as the record date for the purpose of determining the Shareholders entitled to (i) receive notice of, or to vote at, any meeting of Shareholders, or (ii) receive payment of any dividend or the allotment of any rights, or in order to make a determination of Shareholders for any other proper purpose. The record date, in any case, shall not be more than one hundred eighty (180) days, and in the case of a meeting of Shareholders not less than ten (10) days, prior to the date on which such meeting is to be held or the date on which such other particular action requiring determination of Shareholders is to be taken, as the case may be. In the case of a meeting of Shareholders, the meeting date set forth in the notice to Shareholders accompanying the proxy statement shall be the date used for purposes of calculating the 180 day or 10 day period, and any adjourned meeting may be reconvened without a change in record date. In lieu of fixing a record date, the Trustees may provide that the transfer books shall be closed for a stated period but not to exceed, in any case, twenty (20) days. If the transfer books are closed for the purpose of determining Shareholders entitled to notice of a vote at a meeting of Shareholders, such books shall be closed for at least ten (10) days immediately preceding the meeting.
Section 11.3. Seal . The Trustees shall adopt a seal, which shall be in such form and shall have such inscription thereon as the Trustees may from time to time provide. The seal of the Trust
13
may be affixed to any document, and the seal and its attestation may be lithographed, engraved or otherwise printed on any document with the same force and effect as if it had been imprinted and attested manually in the same manner and with the same effect as if done by a Massachusetts business corporation under Massachusetts law.
Section 11.4. Fiscal Year . The fiscal year of the Trust shall end on such date as the Trustees may by resolution specify, and the Trustees may by resolution change such date for future fiscal years at any time and from time to time.
Section 11.5. Orders for Payment of Money . All orders or instructions for the payment of money of the Trust, and all notes or other evidences of indebtedness issued in the name of the Trust, shall be signed by such officer or officers or such other person or persons as the Trustees may from time to time designate, or as may be specified in or pursuant to the agreement between the Trust and the bank or trust company appointed as Custodian of the securities and funds of the Trust.
ARTICLE XII
Compliance with Federal Regulations
The Trustees are hereby empowered to take such action as they may deem to be necessary, desirable or appropriate so that the Trust is or shall be in compliance with any federal or state statute, rule or regulation with which compliance by the Trust is required.
ARTICLE XIII
Amendments
These Bylaws may be amended, altered, or repealed, or new Bylaws may be adopted, (a) by a Majority Shareholder Vote, or (b) by the Trustees; provided, however, that no Bylaw may be amended, adopted or repealed by the Trustees if such amendment, adoption or repeal requires, pursuant to law, the Declaration, or these Bylaws, a vote of the Shareholders. The Trustees shall in no event adopt Bylaws which are in conflict with the Declaration, and any apparent inconsistency shall be construed in favor of the related provisions in the Declaration.
ARTICLE XIV
Declaration of Trust
The Declaration of Trust establishing the Trust, dated October 23, 1998, as amended, a copy of which, together with all amendments thereto, is on file in the office of the Secretary of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, provides that the name The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust refers to the Trustees under the Declaration collectively as Trustees, but not as individuals or personally; and no Trustee, Shareholder, officer, employee or agent of The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust shall be held to any personal liability, nor shall resort be had to their private property for the satisfaction of any obligation or claim or otherwise, in connection with the affairs of said The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust, but the Trust Property, or the Property of one or more specific series of the Trust if a claim arises with respect to only such series, only shall be liable.
Amended and Restated: September 14, 2015
14
Exhibit (d)(v)
EXHIBIT A
Investment Advisory Agreement
October 6, 2015
The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust
THE MATERIALS SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
THE CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
THE CONSUMER STAPLES SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
THE HEALTH CARE SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
THE ENERGY SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
THE FINANCIAL SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
THE INDUSTRIAL SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
THE TECHNOLOGY SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
THE UTILITIES SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
THE FINANCIAL SERVICES SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
THE REAL ESTATE SELECT SECTOR SPDR FUND
As consideration for the Advisers services to each of the Funds, the Adviser shall receive from each Fund an annual advisory fee, accrued daily at the rate of 1/365th of the applicable fee rate and payable monthly on the first business day of each month, of the following annual percentages of the Trusts average daily net assets during the month:
|
Average Net Assets of the Trust |
Annual Fee
(Expressed in Basis Points: 1/100 of 1%) |
|
|
Up to $12.5 Billion |
5.0 | |
|
$12.5 Billion up to $30.0 Billion |
4.0 | |
|
$30.0 Billion up to $50.0 Billion |
3.5 | |
|
$50.0 Billion up to $100.0 Billion |
3.0 | |
|
$100.0 Billion up to $150.0 Billion |
2.85 | |
|
$150.0 Billion up to $200.0 Billion |
2.71 | |
|
All assets over $200.0 Billion |
2.56 |
Exhibit (d)(vi)
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.
One Lincoln Street
Boston, MA 02111
October 6, 2015
Jesse D. Hallee, Secretary
The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust
100 Huntington Avenue
Mail Stop CPH0326
Boston, MA 02111
Dear Mr. Hallee:
This letter serves to inform you that SSGA Funds Management, Inc., as investment adviser to The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust (the Funds), agrees until January 31, 2017, to (i) waive up to the full amount of the management fee payable by a Fund, and (ii) to reimburse a Fund for fees and expenses (exclusive of non-recurring account fees and extraordinary expenses, as measured on an annualized basis) to the level of the expense limitation for each Fund stated below:
|
Fund Name |
Expense Limitation |
Expiration Date |
||
| The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund |
The lower of: i) 0.14% of the Funds average daily net assets; and ii) the Total annual Fund operating expenses of The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF) as published in the XLF prospectus dated on or about January 31, 2016. |
January 31, 2017 | ||
| The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund |
The lower of: i) 0.14% of the Funds average daily net assets; and ii) The Total annual Fund operating expenses of The Financial Select Sector SPDR (XLF) as published in the XLF prospectus dated on or about January 31, 2016. |
January 31, 2017 |
Prior to January 31, 2017, as specified above, this agreement may not be terminated with respect to a Fund without the approval of the Funds Board of Trustees. This agreement may, at the option of SSGA Funds Management, Inc., continue after the dates designated above. The terms of the waiver are subject to the terms and conditions of the Investment Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2003 and as amended from time to time, between the Trust and SSGA FM (Advisory Agreement).
| SSGA Funds Management, Inc. | The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust | |||||||
| By: |
|
By: |
|
|||||
| Name: | Ellen M. Needham | Name: | Jesse D. Hallee | |||||
| Title: | President | Title: | Secretary | |||||
Exhibit (e)(i)(2)
Amendment No. 1 to Distribution Agreement
This Amendment, dated as of October 5, 2015, to the Distribution Agreement (this Amendment), by and between The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust, a Massachusetts business trust (the Trust) and ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a Colorado corporation, having its principal place of business at 1290 Broadway, Suite 1100, Denver, Colorado 80203 (the Distributor).
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Distributor entered into a Distribution Agreement dated October 1, 2013 (the Agreement); and
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Distributor wish to amend the provisions of the Agreement to reflect the addition of two new Funds offered under the Trust; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereby agree to amend the Agreement as follows:
1. The parties hereto agree to delete the current Annex I to the Agreement in its entirety and replace it with a new Annex I attached hereto.
2. Except as specifically set forth herein, all other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect. Any items not herein defined shall have the meaning ascribed to them in the Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Amendment as of the day and year first above written.
| SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST | ALPS PORTFOLIO SOLUTIONS DISTRIBUTOR, INC. | |||||||
| By: |
/s/ Jesse Hallee |
By: |
/s/ Bradley J. Swenson |
|||||
| Name: | Jesse Hallee | Name: | Bradley J. Swenson | |||||
| Title: | Secretary | Title: | Senior Vice President, CCO | |||||
Annex I
FUND
The Consumer Discretionary Select SPDR Fund (XLY)
The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP)
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE)
The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF)
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR (XLFS)
The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV)
The Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI)
The Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB)
The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR (XLRE)
The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK)
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU)
As of October 5, 2015
Exhibit (g)(ii)(2)
The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust
One Lincoln Street
Boston, MA 02111
State Street Bank and Trust Company
One Lincoln Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02111
Ladies and Gentlemen:
Reference is made to the Custodian Contract between us dated as of December 1, 1998, as amended to date (the Agreement).
Pursuant to the Agreement, this letter is to provide notice of the creation of the following additional investment portfolios of The Select Sector SPDR Trust:
| | The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund; and |
| | The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (collectively, the New Funds). |
In accordance with Section 16 of the Agreement, we request that you act as Custodian with respect to the New Funds.
Please indicate your acceptance of the foregoing by executing two copies of this letter, returning one to the Trust and retaining one copy for your records.
| Very truly yours, | ||
| The Select Sector SPDR Trust | ||
| By: |
|
|
| Jesse D. Hallee | ||
| Secretary | ||
| Accepted: | ||
| State Street Bank and Trust Company | ||
| By: |
|
|
| Gunjan Kedia | ||
| Executive Vice President | ||
As of October 6, 2015
Exhibit (h)(i)(1)
THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
This Administration Agreement ( Agreement ) dated and effective as of June 1, 2015, is by and between SSGA Funds Management, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation (the Administrator ), and The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust, a Massachusetts business trust (the Trust ).
WHEREAS, the Trust is an open-end management investment company comprised of multiple series (each, a Fund and collectively, the Funds ), and is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ( SEC ) by means of a registration statement ( Registration Statement ) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act ), and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act ); and
WHEREAS, the Trust desires to retain the Administrator to furnish certain administrative services to the Trust, and the Administrator is willing to furnish, or cause to be furnished, such services, on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants herein contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
| 1. | A PPOINTMENT OF A DMINISTRATOR |
The Trust hereby appoints the Administrator to act as administrator to the Trust for purposes of providing the administrative services described herein for the period and on the terms set forth in this Agreement. The Administrator accepts such appointment and agrees to render, or cause to be rendered, such services. The Administrator is authorized to and may employ, associate or contract with such person or persons as the Administrator may deem desirable to assist it in performing its duties under this Agreement; provided, however , that the compensation of such person or persons shall be paid by the Administrator and that the Administrator shall be as fully responsible to the Trust for the acts and omissions of any such person or persons as it is for its own acts and omissions.
The Trust currently consists of the Funds as listed in Schedule A to this Agreement. In the event that the Trust establishes one or more additional Fund(s) with respect to which it wishes to retain the Administrator to act as administrator hereunder, the Trust shall notify the Administrator in writing. Upon written acceptance by the Administrator, such Fund(s) shall become subject to the provisions of this Agreement to the same extent as the existing Funds, except to the extent that such provisions (including those relating to compensation and expenses payable) may be modified with respect to such Fund(s) in writing by the Trust and the Administrator at the time of the addition of such Fund(s). Each such writing shall be considered an amendment to, and become a part of, this Agreement.
THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| 2. | D ELIVERY OF D OCUMENTS |
The Trust will promptly deliver to the Administrator copies of each of the following documents and all future amendments and supplements, if any, as applicable:
| a. | The Trusts Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust dated October 23, 1998 (the Declaration of Trust ) and By-Laws; |
| b. | The Trusts currently effective Registration Statement under the 1933 Act and the 1940 Act and each Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information ( SAI ) relating to the Fund(s) and all amendments and supplements thereto as in effect from time to time; |
| c. | Copies of the resolutions of the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the Board ) certified by the Trusts Secretary authorizing (1) the Trust to enter into this Agreement and (2) certain individuals on behalf of the Trust to (a) give instructions to the Administrator pursuant to this Agreement and (b) sign checks and pay expenses; |
| d. | A copy of the investment advisory agreement between the Trust and its investment adviser; and |
| e. | Such other certificates, documents or opinions which the Administrator may, in its reasonable discretion, deem necessary or appropriate in the proper performance of its duties. |
| 3. | R EPRESENTATIONS AND W ARRANTIES OF THE A DMINISTRATOR |
The Administrator represents and warrants to the Trust that:
| a. | It is a Massachusetts corporation, duly organized and existing under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts; |
| b. | It has the corporate power and authority to carry on its business in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts; |
| c. | All requisite corporate proceedings have been taken to authorize it to enter into and perform this Agreement; |
| d. | No legal or administrative proceedings have been instituted or threatened which would materially impair the Administrators ability to perform its duties and obligations under this Agreement; and |
| e. | Its entrance into this Agreement shall not cause a material breach or be in material conflict with any other agreement or obligation of the Administrator or any law or regulation applicable to it. |
| f. | The Administrator has duly adopted written policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to prevent violation of the Federal Securities Laws (as defined in Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act) with respect to the services provided hereunder to the Trust and the Funds. |
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| 4. | R EPRESENTATIONS AND W ARRANTIES OF THE T RUST |
The Trust represents and warrants to the Administrator that:
| a. | It is a business trust, duly organized, existing and in good standing under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts; |
| b. | It has the requisite power and authority under applicable laws and by its Declaration of Trust and By-Laws to enter into and perform this Agreement; |
| c. | All requisite proceedings have been taken to authorize it to enter into and perform this Agreement; |
| d. | It is an investment company registered with the SEC under the 1940 Act; |
| e. | The Registration Statement has been filed and will be effective and remain effective during the term of this Agreement. The Trust also warrants to the Administrator that as of the effective date of this Agreement, all necessary filings under the securities laws of the states in which the Trust offers or sells its shares have been made; |
| f. | No legal or administrative proceedings have been instituted or threatened which would impair the Trusts ability to perform its duties and obligations under this Agreement; |
| g. | Its entrance into this Agreement will not cause a material breach or be in material conflict with any other agreement or obligation of the Trust or any law or regulation applicable to it; |
| h. | The Trust is authorized to issue unlimited shares of beneficial interest and the Trustees have authorized the establishment of the series of shares listed on Schedule A ; and |
| i. | Where information provided by the Trust or the Trusts investors includes information about an identifiable individual ( Personal Information ), the Trust represents and warrants that it has obtained all consents and approvals, as required by all applicable laws, regulations, by-laws and ordinances that regulate the collection, processing, use or disclosure of Personal Information, necessary to disclose such Personal Information to the Administrator, and as required for the Administrator to use and disclose such Personal Information in connection with the performance of the services hereunder. The Trust acknowledges that the Administrator may perform any of the services, and may use and disclose Personal Information outside of the jurisdiction in which it was initially collected by the Trust, including the United States and that information relating to the Trust, including Personal Information may be accessed by national security authorities, law enforcement and courts. The Administrator shall be kept indemnified by and be without liability to the Trust for any action taken or omitted by it in reliance upon this representation and warranty, including without limitation, any liability or costs in connection with claims or complaints for failure to comply with any applicable law that regulates the collection, processing, use or disclosure of Personal Information. |
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| 5. | A DMINISTRATION S ERVICES |
The Administrator shall provide, or cause to be provided, the following services, subject to the control, supervision, authorization and direction of the Board and, in each case where appropriate, the review and comment by the Funds independent accountants and outside counsel and in accordance with procedures which may be established from time to time between the Trust and the Administrator:
General Services
| a. | Monitor and coordinate the activities of the other service providers of the Funds, including the distributor, investment adviser, custodian, transfer agent, sub-administrator, the Funds outside counsel and independent accountants, as well as coordination of the Funds compliance efforts and support for the Trusts chief compliance officer; |
| b. | Upon request, report to the Board regarding the activities of each of the service providers; |
| c. | Assist the Funds in preparing for and handling regulatory examinations, inquiries and investigations, including working closely with outside counsel to the Funds and counsel to the trustees who are not interested persons of the Funds under the 1940 Act ( Independent Trustees ); |
| d. | Provide and maintain office facilities for the Funds (which may be in the offices of the Administrator or an affiliate); |
| e. | Cause to be furnished for the Trust a Secretary and one or more Assistant Secretaries as provided by the Trusts By-Laws, if so appointed by the Board, who shall perform corporate secretarial services as provided in the By-Laws, including assisting in the coordination of Board meetings and the preparation and distribution of materials and reports for meetings of the Board, the Independent Trustees and committees of the Board; |
| f. | Provide suitable personnel to serve as officers of the Trust as provided by the Trusts By-Laws, if so qualified and appointed by the Board; |
| g. | Except as otherwise provided in this Section 5, monitor and generally assist in all aspects of the Trusts operations and provide mutually agreed upon reports to the Board and the Trusts Chief Compliance Officer; provided, however, that nothing contained herein shall be deemed to relieve or deprive the Board of its responsibility for and control of the conduct of the Trusts affairs; |
| h. | Provide assistance with investor and public relations matters; |
| i. | Prepare responses to major industry questionnaires; |
| j. | Perform agreed-upon shareholder servicing and processing functions not assumed by shareholder servicing agents or any other party; |
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| k. | Prepare reports relating to the business and affairs of the Trust as may be mutually agreed upon and not otherwise prepared by the Trusts investment adviser, custodian, outside counsel or independent accountants. |
| l. | Assist the Trust in the development of additional investment portfolios; |
| m. | Implement and maintain a disaster recovery program for the Trusts records, and the business continuity plan for the Trust; |
| n. | Supervise, negotiate contractual arrangements with (to the extent appropriate) and monitor the performance of, third party accounting agents, custodians, depositories, transfer agent, pricing agents, independent accountants, attorneys, printers, insurers, shareholder servicing and processing agents, banks (for lines of credit) and other persons in any capacity deemed to be necessary or desirable to Trust or Fund operations; |
| o. | To the extent relevant to the Trust, perform the Trusts policies and procedures with respect to market timing, anti-money laundering, customer identification, privacy, sales load breakpoints and redemption fees, to the extent these policies and procedures have been adopted and have not been delegated to another service provider of the Trust; |
| p. | Otherwise assist the Trust as it may reasonably request in the conduct of each Funds business. |
Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administration Services will also include the following duties:
Fund Administration Treasury Services
| q. | Monitor and coordinate all aspects of the Funds accounting functions, including, without limitation, as applicable to the operations of the Funds, internal controls over financial reporting, income and expense accruals, accounts receivable and payable, portfolio valuation (including reviewing and reporting on asset valuations), securities lending, interfund lending, Rule 12b-1 and certain servicing payments; |
| r. | Prepare, in cooperation with and subject to review by the Funds investment adviser and Fund Counsel where applicable, all necessary financial information that will be included in the Funds semi-annual and annual shareholder reports, Form N-CSR, Form N-Q and other of the Funds regulatory filings and quarterly reports to the Trusts Board (as mutually agreed upon by the Board, Counsel to the Independent Trustees, the Fund Counsel or the Funds investment adviser, as appropriate), including tax footnote disclosures where applicable; |
| s. | Coordinate and, subject to the authority of the Trusts Audit Committee, direct the audit of the Funds financial statements, including (subject to the review and approval of the Trusts Audit Committee) the negotiation of engagement letters, preparation of supporting workpapers and other schedules, and (2) make such reports and recommendations to the Board or its Audit Committee concerning the performance of the Funds independent accountants as the Board or the Audit Committee may reasonably request; |
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| t. | Prepare, in cooperation with and subject to review by the Funds investment adviser and Fund Counsel where applicable, the Funds periodic financial reports required to be filed with the SEC on Forms N-SAR, N-CSR, and Form N-Q and financial and other information required by Form N-1A and periodic updates thereto, proxy statements and such other reports, forms or filings as set forth herein and as may be mutually agreed upon; |
| u. | Prepare for review by an officer of the Trust, the Funds annual expense budgets, perform accrual analyses and rollforward calculations and recommend changes to Fund expense accruals on a periodic basis, review calculations, submit for approval by officers of the Trust and arrange for payment of the Funds expenses, review calculations of fees paid to the Funds investment adviser, custodian, fund accountant, distributor, and transfer agent, and obtain authorization of accrual changes and expense payments; |
| v. | Provide periodic post trade testing of the Funds with respect to compliance with the Internal Revenue Codes mandatory qualification requirements, the requirements of the 1940 Act and limitations for each Fund contained in the Registration Statement for the Funds, including quarterly compliance reporting to the Trusts officers as well as preparation of Board compliance materials; |
| w. | Provide total return performance data for each Fund, including such information on an after-tax basis, calculated in accordance with all applicable securities laws and regulatory requirements, and as may be reasonably requested by the Trusts management; |
| x. | Prepare and disseminate information related to reviews of the Funds service providers, vendor surveys and other related information as reasonably requested; |
| y. | Prepare and coordinate the filing of Rule 24f-2 notices, including coordination of payment to the SEC by the Funds; |
| z. | Periodically review the Funds internal controls over financial reporting, and conduct periodic meetings of the Trusts Disclosure Controls and Procedures Committee, including the representation of the Administrator in such meetings; |
| aa. | Maintain certain books and records of the Funds as required under Rule 31a-1(b) of the 1940 Act and as may be mutually agreed upon; |
| bb. | Consult with the Trusts officers, fund accountant, independent accountants and, when necessary or appropriate, Fund Counsel, the custodian, investment adviser and transfer agent in establishing the accounting policies of the Funds; |
| cc. | Assist in the resolution of accounting issues that may arise with respect to each Funds operations and consult with each Funds independent accountants, Fund Counsel and each Funds other agents as necessary in connection therewith; |
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| dd. | Oversee the determination and publication of the Funds net asset values in accordance with the Funds policy as adopted from time to time by the Board; |
| ee. | Provide, or through the Funds other service providers coordinate the provision of, accounting, tax and related technical support to the Funds, including the review and presentation to the Board for approval of securities valuation methods and sources and reporting on the services provided by the Funds custodians portfolio accounting group; |
Fund Administration Legal Services
| ff. | Prepare and distribute the agenda and background materials for all Board meetings and the meetings of the Boards committees, attend and make presentations at Board and Board committee meetings where appropriate or requested, prepare minutes for all Board and Board committee meetings; facilitate communications with, and the activities of, the Trusts Independent Trustees and their counsel; facilitate meetings of the Trusts independent chairman; monitor and coordinate the follow-up on matters raised at any Board, Board committee and chairmans meetings; and attend shareholder meetings and prepare minutes of all such meetings; |
| gg. | Refer to the Trusts officers or transfer agent, and, as appropriate the Board, any shareholder inquiries relating to the Funds to the extent that the Administrator is the first party to become aware of such inquiries. |
| hh. | Coordinate and oversee the vendors providing state securities (blue sky) registration and maintenance and, in connection therewith, perform the services detailed in Schedule B hereto; |
| ii. | Compile and maintain the Trusts Trustees and Officers Questionnaires; |
| jj. | In cooperation with the Trusts Chief Compliance Officer and investment adviser, prepare and file with the SEC: Form N-CSR; Form N-Q; Form N-PX; and Form N-1A, including all necessary amendments, updates and sticker supplements of the prospectus and statement of additional information for each Fund as well as certain of the Funds other communications with the SEC regarding the Funds regulatory filings; |
| kk. | In cooperation with and subject to review by the Trusts investment adviser and Fund Counsel, prepare any necessary proxy statements, file such statements with the SEC and provide consultation on proxy solicitation matters; |
| ll. | Assist the Trust in all other required filings of the Funds made with the SEC (such as exemptive applications and no-action letter requests) or any other regulatory entities, including state corporation reports and private letter ruling requests with the IRS; |
| mm. | Maintain general Board calendars and regulatory filings calendars; |
| nn. | Maintain copies of the Trusts Declaration of Trust and By-Laws. |
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| oo. | Act as liaison to Fund Counsel and counsel to the Independent Trustees; |
| pp. | In cooperation with and subject to review by the Trusts Chief Compliance Officer and investment adviser, assist in developing and periodically reviewing the Funds 1940 Act Rule 38a-1 Compliance Policies and Procedures Manual; |
| qq. | Maintain continuing awareness of significant emerging regulatory and legislative developments that may affect the Funds, update the Board, Trust officers and the investment adviser on those developments and provide related planning assistance where requested or appropriate; |
| rr. | Coordinate the Trusts insurance coverage, including facilitating the solicitation of bids for Directors & Officers/Errors & Omissions (D&O/E&O) insurance and fidelity bond coverage, file fidelity bonds with the SEC and make related Board presentations; |
| ss. | Coordinate the quarterly and annual compliance reporting of the Administrator for review by the Trusts Chief Compliance Officer; |
| tt. | Participate and assist in the preparation and filing of responses to inspections or examinations, where applicable, by the SEC and other regulatory authorities; |
| uu. | Coordinate the printing of the prospectus and shareholder financial reports; |
| vv. | Coordinate legal guidance on alternative distribution structures for the Funds shares; |
| ww. | Review all contracts concerning the acquisition of other investment companies or the liquidation of a Fund; draft, negotiate and file various documentation required in connection therewith; provide guidance on the manner such transactions should be structured to comply with applicable law; and obtain at the Trusts expense legal opinions and regulatory authority rulings necessary for such transactions to comply with applicable law; |
| xx. | Prepare and file, or oversee the preparation and filing of, any claims in connection with class actions involving portfolio securities, handle administrative matters in connection with the litigation or settlement of such claims, and prepare reports to the Board regarding such matters; |
| yy. | Prepare or oversee the preparation of all press releases and notices to the national securities exchange on which the Funds shares are listed. |
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
Fund Administration Tax Services
| zz. | Compute tax basis provisions for both excise and income tax purposes; |
| aaa. | Prepare initial federal, state and local income tax returns for the Funds and direct, assist and coordinate the review of the Funds federal, state, and local income tax returns and any required extension requests by the Funds independent accountants, as paid tax preparers, and execution and filing by the Trusts treasurer, including Form 1120-RIC, Form 8613 and Forms 1099; |
| bbb. | Coordinate Form 1099 mailings; |
| ccc. | Review and approve periodic income distribution calculations, including estimates, and annual minimum distribution calculations (income and capital gain) prior to their declaration; and |
| ddd. | Provide consultation, as needed or requested, to the Trusts officers and the adviser supporting tax elections and policies of the Funds. |
The Administrator shall perform such other services for the Funds for which the Trust will pay such fees, including the Administrators reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, as may be mutually agreed upon by the Board and Administrator from time to time. The provision of such services shall be subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
| 6. | F EES ; E XPENSES ; E XPENSE R EIMBURSEMENT |
The Administrator shall receive from the Trust such compensation for the Administrators services provided pursuant to this Agreement as may be agreed to from time to time in a written Fee Schedule approved by the parties. The fees are accrued daily and billed monthly and shall be due and payable upon receipt of the invoice. Upon the termination of this Agreement before the end of any month, the fee for the part of the month before such termination shall be prorated according to the proportion which such part bears to the full monthly period and shall be payable upon the date of termination of this Agreement. In addition, the Trust shall reimburse the Administrator for its out-of-pocket costs incurred in connection with this Agreement. All rights of compensation and expense reimbursement under this Agreement for services performed as of the termination date shall survive the termination of this Agreement.
The Trust agrees promptly to reimburse the Administrator for any equipment and supplies specially ordered by or for the Trust through the Administrator and for any other expenses not contemplated by this Agreement that the Administrator may incur on the Trusts behalf at the Trusts request or with the Trusts consent.
The Trust will bear all expenses that are incurred in its operation and not specifically assumed by the Administrator or another party. Expenses to be borne by the Trust include, but are not limited to: organizational expenses; cost of services of independent accountants and Fund Counsel (including such counsels review of the Registration Statement, Form N-CSR, Form N-Q, Form N-PX, Form N-SAR, proxy materials, federal and state tax qualification as a regulated investment company and other notices, registrations, reports, filings and materials prepared by the Administrator under this Agreement); cost of any services contracted for by the Trust directly from parties other than the Administrator; cost of trading operations and brokerage fees,
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
commissions and transfer taxes in connection with the purchase and sale of securities for the Funds; investment advisory fees; taxes, insurance premiums and other fees and expenses applicable to its operation; costs incidental to any meetings of shareholders including, but not limited to, legal and accounting fees, proxy filing fees and the costs of preparation ( e.g. , typesetting, XBRL-tagging, page changes and all other print vendor and EDGAR charges, collectively referred to herein as Preparation ), printing, distribution and mailing of any proxy materials; costs incidental to Board meetings, including fees of Independent Trustees and expenses of Board members; the salary and expenses of any officer or Trustee of the Trust; costs of Preparation, printing, distribution and mailing, as applicable, of the Trusts Registration Statement and any amendments and supplements thereto and shareholder reports; cost of Preparation and filing of the Trusts tax returns, Form N-1A, Form N-CSR, Form N-Q, Form N-PX, Form N-SAR and all notices, registrations and amendments associated with applicable federal and state tax and securities laws; all applicable registration fees and filing fees required under federal and state securities laws; the cost of fidelity bond and D&O/E&O liability insurance; and the cost of independent pricing services used in computing the Funds net asset value.
| 7. | I NSTRUCTIONS AND A DVICE |
At any time, the Administrator may apply to any officer of the Trust or his or her designee for instructions and may consult with the independent accountants for the Trust at the expense of the Trust, with respect to any matter arising in connection with the services to be performed by the Administrator under this Agreement.
The Administrator shall not be liable, and shall be indemnified by the Trust, for any action taken or omitted by it in good faith in reliance upon any such instructions or advice or upon any paper or document believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed by the proper person or persons. The Administrator shall not be held to have notice of any change of authority of any person until receipt of written notice thereof from the Trust. Nothing in this section shall be construed as imposing upon the Administrator any obligation to seek such instructions or advice, or to act in accordance with such advice when received.
| 8. | L IMITATION OF L IABILITY AND I NDEMNIFICATION |
The Administrator shall be responsible for the performance only of such duties as are set forth in this Agreement and, except as otherwise provided under Section 1, shall have no responsibility for the actions or activities of any other party, including other service providers. The Administrator shall have no liability for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss or damage resulting from the performance or nonperformance of its duties hereunder unless such loss or damage arises directly from, and then only to the extent of, the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the Administrator, or any subcontractor engaged by the Administrator to provide services hereunder, and their respective officers and employees. The Administrator shall not be liable for any special, indirect, incidental, punitive or consequential damages, including lost profits, of any kind whatsoever (including, without limitation, attorneys fees) under any provision of this Agreement or for any such damages arising out of any act or failure to act hereunder, each of which is hereby excluded by agreement of the parties regardless of whether such damages were foreseeable or whether either party or any entity had been advised of the possibility of such damages. In any event, except as otherwise agreed to in writing by the parties hereto, the Administrators cumulative liability for each calendar year (a Liability Period ) with respect to the Trust under this Agreement regardless of the form of action or legal theory shall be limited to
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
its total annual compensation earned and fees payable hereunder during the preceding Compensation Period, as defined herein, for any liability or loss suffered by the Trust including, but not limited to, any liability relating to qualification of the Trust as a regulated investment company or any liability relating to the Trusts compliance with any federal or state tax or securities statute, regulation or ruling during such Liability Period. Compensation Period shall mean the calendar year ending immediately prior to each Liability Period in which the event(s) giving rise to the Administrators liability for that period have occurred. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Compensation Period for purposes of calculating the annual cumulative liability of the Administrator for the Liability Period commencing on the date of this Agreement and terminating on May 31, 2016 shall be the date of this Agreement through May 31, 2016 calculated on an annualized basis.
The Administrator shall not be responsible or liable for any failure or delay in performance of its obligations under this Agreement arising out of or caused, directly or indirectly, by circumstances beyond its control, including without limitation, work stoppage, power or other mechanical failure, computer virus, natural disaster, governmental action or communication disruption.
The Trust shall indemnify and hold the Administrator and its directors, officers, employees and agents harmless from all loss, cost, damage and expense, including reasonable fees and expenses for counsel, incurred by the Administrator resulting from any claim, demand, action or suit in connection with the Administrators acceptance of this Agreement, any action or omission by it in the performance of its duties hereunder, or as a result of acting upon any instructions reasonably believed by it to have been duly authorized by the Trust or upon reasonable reliance on information or records given or made by the Trust or its investment adviser, provided that this indemnification shall not apply to actions or omissions of the Administrator, or any subcontractor engaged by the Administrator to provide services hereunder, or to their respective officers or employees in cases of its or their own gross negligence or willful misconduct.
The limitation of liability and indemnification contained herein shall survive the termination of this Agreement.
| 9. | C ONFIDENTIALITY |
All information provided under this agreement by a party (the Disclosing Party ) to the other party (the Receiving Party ) regarding the Disclosing Partys business and operations shall be treated as confidential. Subject to Section 17 below, all confidential information provided under this Agreement by Disclosing Party shall be used, including disclosure to third parties, by the Receiving Party, or its agents or service providers, solely for the purpose of performing or receiving the services and discharging the Receiving Partys other obligations under the Agreement or managing the business of the Receiving Party and its Affiliates (as defined in Section 17 below), including financial and operational management and reporting, risk management, legal and regulatory compliance and client service management.
The foregoing shall not be applicable to any information (a) that is publicly available when provided or thereafter becomes publicly available, other than through a breach of this Agreement, (b) that is independently derived by the Receiving Party without the use of any information provided by the Disclosing Party in connection with this Agreement, (c) that is disclosed to comply with any legal or regulatory proceeding, investigation, audit, examination, subpoena, civil investigative demand or other similar process, (d) that is disclosed as required
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
by operation of law or regulation or as required to comply with the requirements of any market infrastructure that the Disclosing Party or its agents direct the Administrator or its Affiliates to employ (or which is required in connection with the holding or settlement of instruments included in the assets subject to this Agreement) or (e) where the party seeking to disclose has received the prior written consent of the party providing the information, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld.
The undertakings and obligations contained in this Section shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement for a period of five (5) years.
| 10. | C OMPLIANCE WITH G OVERNMENTAL R ULES AND R EGULATIONS ; R ECORDS |
In compliance with the requirements of Rule 31a-3 under the 1940 Act, the Administrator agrees that all records which it maintains for the Trust shall at all times remain the property of the Trust, shall be readily accessible during normal business hours, and shall be promptly surrendered upon the termination of the Agreement or otherwise on written request except as otherwise provided in Section 12. The Administrator further agrees that all records that it maintains for the Trust pursuant to Rule 31a-1 under the 1940 Act will be preserved for the periods prescribed by Rule 31a-2 under the 1940 Act unless any such records are earlier surrendered as provided above. Records may be surrendered in either written or machine-readable form, at the option of the Administrator.
| 11. | S ERVICES N OT E XCLUSIVE |
The services of the Administrator are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Administrator shall be free to render similar services to others. The Administrator shall be deemed to be an independent contractor and shall, unless otherwise expressly provided herein or authorized by the Trust from time to time, have no authority to act or represent the Trust in any way or otherwise be deemed an agent of the Trust.
| 12. | E FFECTIVE P ERIOD AND T ERMINATION |
The Agreement shall commence on June 1, 2015 and shall continue for an initial term until May 31, 2016 (the Initial Term), and thereafter shall automatically continue for successive one year periods (each a Renewal Term ); provided however, that at any time during the Initial Term or any Renewal Term either party may terminate the Agreement on sixty (60) days prior written notice to the other party. Termination of this Agreement with respect to any Fund shall in no way affect the continued validity of this Agreement with respect to the Trust or any other Fund. Upon termination of this Agreement pursuant to this paragraph with respect to the Trust or any Fund, the Trust or applicable Fund shall pay Administrator its compensation due for services rendered prior to the termination date, and shall reimburse Administrator for its costs, expenses and disbursements with respect to services rendered prior to the termination date. Upon termination of this Agreement, the Administrator will deliver the Trusts or such Funds records as set forth herein.
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| 13. | N OTICES |
Any notice or other communication authorized or required by this Agreement to be given to either party shall be in writing and deemed to have been given when delivered in person or by confirmed facsimile, by overnight delivery through a commercial courier service, or posted by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the following address (or such other address as a party may specify by written notice to the other):
If to the Trust:
The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust
One Lincoln Street
Boston, MA 02111
Attn: Ellen Needham, President
Facsimile: 617-664-4011
If to the Administrator:
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.
One Lincoln Street
Boston, MA 02111
Attn: Ann Carpenter, Chief Operating Officer
Facsimile: 617-664-4011
| 14. | A MENDMENT |
This Agreement may be amended at any time in writing by mutual agreement of the parties hereto.
| 15. | A SSIGNMENT |
This Agreement shall not be assigned by either party hereto without the prior consent in writing of the other party, except that the Administrator may assign this Agreement to an affiliate that is the successor to all or a substantial portion of its business.
| 16. | S UCCESSORS |
This Agreement shall be binding on and shall inure to the benefit of the Trust and the Administrator and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
| 17. | D ATA P ROTECTION |
| a. |
The Administrator shall implement and maintain a comprehensive written information security program that contains appropriate security measures to safeguard the personal information of the Trusts shareholders, Trustees and/or officers that the Administrator receives, stores, maintains, processes or otherwise accesses in connection with the provision of services hereunder. For these purposes, personal information shall mean (i) an individuals name (first initial and last name or first name and last name), address or telephone number plus (a) |
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| social security number, (b) drivers license number, (c) state identification card number, (d) debit or credit card number, (e) financial account number or (f) personal identification number or password that would permit access to a persons account or (ii) any combination of the foregoing that would allow a person to log onto or access an individuals account. Notwithstanding the foregoing personal information shall not include information that is lawfully obtained from publicly available information, or from federal, state or local government records lawfully made available to the general public. |
| b. | In connection with the provision of the services and the discharge of its other obligations under this Agreement, the Administrator (which term for purposes of this Section 17 includes each of its parent company, branches and affiliates ( Affiliates )) may collect and store information regarding the Trust or Fund(s) and share such information with its Affiliates, agents and service providers in order and to the extent reasonably necessary (i) to carry out the provision of services contemplated under this Agreement and other agreements between the Administrator or any of its Affiliates and the Trust and (ii) to carry out management of its businesses, including, but not limited to, financial and operational management and reporting, risk management, legal and regulatory compliance and client service management. |
| c. | Subject to paragraph (d) below, the Administrator and/or its Affiliates (except those Affiliates or business divisions principally engaged in the business of asset management) may use any data or other information ( Data ) obtained by such entities in the performance of their services under this Agreement or any other agreement between the Trust and the Administrator or one of its Affiliates, including Data regarding transactions and portfolio holdings relating to the Trust/Fund, and publish, sell, distribute or otherwise commercialize the Data; provided that, unless the Trust and the Administrator otherwise consents, Data is combined or aggregated with information relating to (i) other customers of the Administrator and/or its Affiliates or (ii) information derived from other sources, in each case such that any published information will be displayed in a manner designed to prevent attribution to or identification of such Data with the Trust/Fund. The Trust agrees that Administrator and /or its Affiliates may seek to profit and realize economic benefit from the commercialization and use of the Data, that such benefit will constitute part of the Administrators compensation for services under this Agreement or such other agreement, and the Administrator and/or its Affiliates shall be entitled to retain and not be required to disclose, except to the Board for purposes of Section 15(c) of the 1940 Act, the amount of such economic benefit and profit to the Administrator or the Trust/Fund. |
| d. | Except as expressly contemplated by this Agreement, nothing in this Section 17 shall limit the confidentiality and data-protection obligations of the Administrator and its Affiliates under this Agreement and applicable law. The Administrator shall cause any Affiliate, agent or service provider to which it has disclosed Data pursuant to this Section 17 to comply at all times with confidentiality and data-protection obligations as if it were a party to this Agreement. |
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| 18. | E NTIRE A GREEMENT |
This Agreement contains the entire understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all previous representations, warranties or commitments regarding the services to be performed hereunder whether oral or in writing.
| 19. | W AIVER |
The failure of a party to insist upon strict adherence to any term of this Agreement on any occasion shall not be considered a waiver nor shall it deprive such party of the right thereafter to insist upon strict adherence to that term or any term of this Agreement. Any waiver must be in writing signed by the waiving party.
| 20. | S EVERABILITY |
If any provision of this Agreement is invalid or unenforceable, the balance of the Agreement shall remain in effect, and if any provision is inapplicable to any person or circumstance it shall nevertheless remain applicable to all other persons and circumstances.
| 21. | G OVERNING L AW |
This Agreement shall be construed and the provisions thereof interpreted under and in accordance with the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without regard to its conflicts of laws provisions.
| 22. | R EPRODUCTION OF D OCUMENTS |
This Agreement and all schedules, exhibits, attachments and amendments hereto may be reproduced by any photographic, xerographic, photostatic, microfilm, micro-card, miniature photographic or other similar process. The parties hereto all/each agree that any such reproduction shall be admissible in evidence as the original itself in any judicial or administrative proceeding, whether or not the original is in existence and whether or not such reproduction was made by a party in the regular course of business, and that any enlargement, facsimile or further reproduction of such reproduction shall likewise be admissible in evidence.
| 23. | C OUNTERPARTS |
This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto on two counterparts, and all of said counterparts taken together shall be deemed to constitute one and the same instrument.
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| 24. | L IMITATION OF L IABILITY OF THE T RUSTEES AND S HAREHOLDERS |
The Declaration of Trust, establishing the Trust, which is hereby referred to and a copy of which is on file with the Secretary of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, provides that the name The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust means the Trustees from time to time serving (as Trustees but not personally) under such Declaration of Trust. It is expressly acknowledged and agreed that the obligations of the Trust hereunder shall not be binding upon any of the shareholders, Trustees, officers, employees or agents of the Trust, personally, but shall bind only the trust property of the Trust, as provided in its Declaration of Trust. The execution and delivery of this Agreement have been authorized by the Trustees of the Trust and signed by an officer of the Trust, acting as such, and neither such authorization by such Trustees nor such execution and delivery by such officer shall be deemed to have been made by any of them individually or to impose any liability on any of them personally, but shall bind only the trust property of the Trust as provided in its Declaration of Trust.
[Remainder of page intentionally left blank.]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed by their officers designated below as of the date first written above.
| THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST | ||
| By: |
|
|
| Name: | Chad Hallett | |
| Title: | Treasurer | |
| SSGA FUNDS MANAGEMENT, INC. | ||
| By: |
|
|
| Name: | Ellen Needham | |
| Title: | President | |
Administration Agreement
ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
SCHEDULE A
Listing of Fund(s)
| Fund | Authorized Shares | |
|
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLY) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLP) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Energy Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLE) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Financial Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLF) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Health Care Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLV) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Industrial Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLI) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Materials Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLB) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Technology Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLK) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLU) |
Unlimited |
B-1
THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
SCHEDULE B
Notice Filing with State Securities Administrators
At the specific direction of the Trust, the Administrator will prepare required documentation and make Notice Filings in accordance with the securities laws of each jurisdiction in which Fund shares are to be offered or sold pursuant to instructions given to the Administrator by the Trust.
The Trust shall be solely responsible for the determination of (i) those jurisdictions in which Notice Filings are to be submitted and (ii) the number of Trust shares to be permitted to be sold in each such jurisdiction. In the event that the Administrator becomes aware of (a) the sale of Fund shares in a jurisdiction in which no Notice Filing has been made or (b) the sale of Fund shares in excess of the number of Fund shares permitted to be sold in such jurisdiction, the Administrator shall report such information to the Trust, and it shall be the Trusts responsibility to determine appropriate corrective action and instruct the Administrator with respect thereto.
The Blue Sky services shall consist of the following:
| 1. | Filing of Trusts Initial Notice Filings, as directed by the Trust; |
| 2. | Filing of Trusts renewals and amendments as required; |
| 3. | Filing of amendments to the Trusts registration statement where required; |
| 4. | Filing Trust sales reports where required; |
| 5. | Payment at the expense of the Trust of all Trust Notice Filing fees; |
| 6. | Filing the Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information and any amendments or supplements thereto where required; |
| 7. | Filing of annual reports and proxy statements where required; and |
| 8. | The performance of such additional services as the Administrator and the Trust may agree upon in writing. |
Unless otherwise specified in writing by the Administrator, Blue Sky services by the Administrator shall not include determining the availability of exemptions under a jurisdictions blue sky law or ensuring the proper application of any such exemptions. Any such determinations shall be made by the Trust or its legal counsel.
If the Trust has elected to deliver Fund share sales information to the Administrator via broker-dealer feeds, the Administrators processing of any such feeds is subject to the supervision and approval of the Trust and the following shall apply.
| 1. | Activation of any broker-dealer feeds, including transfer agent codes or broker codes, will commence as soon as practical after written instructions are received from the Trust. The Administrator will assume all sales from such feeds are Blue Sky reportable. |
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THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
| 2. | The Administrator will accept and pay Blue Sky fees based on all active and live direct broker-dealer feeds, as instructed by the Trust in writing. |
| 3. | The originating entity, and not the Administrator, is responsible for the accuracy of all broker-dealer feed information. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administrator will not be responsible for (i) reconciling any direct broker-dealer feeds with the Trusts accounting records, (ii) ensuring that omnibus suppressions are effected, (iii) the accuracy of any files transmitted from the transfer agent or broker-dealer systems or (iv) errors or omissions in sales data. The Administrator will not alter or otherwise manipulate or change the contents of any transfer agent or broker-dealer files routed to the Administrator. |
| 4. | The Trust will be responsible for ensuring that any direct broker-dealer feeds are deactivated from the main omnibus feed at the Trusts transfer agent as appropriate. The Trust acknowledges that all dropped and dead transfer agent or broker-dealer feeds will automatically be deactivated. |
In connection with the services described herein, the Trust shall issue in favor of the Administrator a power of attorney to submit Notice Filings on behalf of the Trust, which power of attorney shall be substantially in the form of Exhibit I attached hereto.
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EXHIBIT 1
LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, as of that THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR TRUST (the Trust ) on behalf of its currently existing series and all future series (the Funds ), with principal offices at , makes, constitutes, and appoints SSGA FUNDS MANAGEMENT, INC. (the Administrator ) with principal offices at One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts its lawful attorney-in-fact for it to do as if it were itself acting, the following:
1. NOTICE FILINGS FOR FUND SHARES. The power to submit (in any format accepted) notice filings for the Funds in each jurisdiction in which the Funds shares are offered or sold and in connection therewith the power to prepare, execute, and deliver and file (in any format accepted) any and all of the Funds applications including without limitation, applications to provide notice for the Funds shares, consents, including consents to service of process, reports, including without limitation, all periodic reports, or other documents and instruments now or hereafter required or appropriate in the judgment of the Administrator in connection with the notice filings of the Funds shares.
2. TRANSMIT FILING FEES. The power to draw, endorse, and deposit checks and/or transmit electronic payments in the name of the Funds in connection with the notice filings of the Funds shares with state securities administrators.
3. AUTHORIZED SIGNERS. Pursuant to this Limited Power of Attorney, individuals holding the titles of Officer, Blue Sky Manager or Senior Blue Sky Administrator at the Administrator shall have authority to act on behalf of the Funds with respect to items 1 and 2 above.
The execution of this limited power of attorney shall be deemed coupled with an interest and shall be revocable only upon receipt by the Administrator of such termination of authority. Nothing herein shall be construed to constitute the appointment of the Administrator as or otherwise authorize the Administrator to act as an officer, director or employee of the Trust.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Trust has caused this Agreement to be executed in its name and on its behalf by and through its duly authorized officer, as of the date first written above.
| THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST | ||
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Subscribed and sworn to before me this day of 20 |
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Exh-1
Exhibit (h)(i)(2)
ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
SCHEDULE A
Listing of Fund(s)
| Fund | Authorized Shares | |
| The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLY) | Unlimited | |
| The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLP) | Unlimited | |
| The Energy Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLE) | Unlimited | |
| The Financial Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLF) | Unlimited | |
| The Health Care Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLV) | Unlimited | |
| The Industrial Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLI) | Unlimited | |
| The Materials Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLB) | Unlimited | |
| The Technology Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLK) | Unlimited | |
| The Utilities Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLU) | Unlimited | |
| The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLFS) | Unlimited | |
| The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLRE) | Unlimited |
As of October 6, 2015
Exhibit (h)(i)(3)
SUB-ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
This Sub-Administration Agreement (Agreement) dated and effective as of June 1, 2015, is by and between State Street Bank and Trust Company, a Massachusetts trust company (the Sub-Administrator), and SSGA Funds Management, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation (the Administrator).
WHEREAS, each of the entities listed on Schedule A attached hereto (each, a Trust) is an open-end management investment company comprised of multiple series (each, a Fund and collectively, the Funds), and is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) by means of a registration statement (Registration Statement) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act), and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), as applicable;
WHEREAS, each Trust has retained the Administrator to furnish certain administrative services to the Trust and/or Funds; and
WHEREAS, the Administrator desires to retain the Sub-Administrator to furnish certain administrative services to the Trust and/or Funds, and the Sub-Administrator is willing to furnish such services, on the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants herein contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
| 1. | A PPOINTMENT OF S UB -A DMINISTRATOR |
The Administrator hereby appoints the Sub-Administrator to act as administrator to the Trust for purposes of providing the administrative services described herein for the period and on the terms set forth in this Agreement. The Sub-Administrator accepts such appointment and agrees to render such services.
Each Trust currently consists of the Funds and their respective classes of shares, as applicable, as listed in Schedule A to this Agreement. In the event that the Trust establishes one or more additional Funds with respect to which the Administrator wishes to retain the Sub-Administrator to act as administrator hereunder, the Administrator shall notify the Sub-Administrator in writing. Upon written acceptance by the Sub-Administrator, such Fund(s) shall become subject to the provisions of this Agreement to the same extent as the existing Funds, except to the extent that such provisions (including those relating to compensation and expenses payable) may be modified with respect to such Fund in writing by the Administrator and the Sub-Administrator at the time of the addition of such Fund. Each such writing shall be considered an amendment to, and become a part of, this Agreement.
| 2. | D ELIVERY OF D OCUMENTS |
With respect to each Trust, the Administrator will promptly deliver to the Sub-Administrator copies of each of the following documents and all future amendments and supplements, if any:
| a. | The Trusts Declaration of Trust or Master Trust Agreement (the Declaration of Trust) and By-laws, each as amended; |
| b. | The Trusts currently effective Registration Statement under the 1933 Act and/or the 1940 Act and each Prospectus, Statement of Additional Information (SAI) and Confidential Offering Memorandum, as applicable, relating to the Funds and all amendments and supplements thereto as in effect from time to time; |
| c. | Copies of a Clerks certification certifying to (1) the authority of the Administrator to enter into this Agreement; and (2) the identity of certain individuals on behalf of the Administrator to (a) give instructions to the Sub-Administrator pursuant to this Agreement and (b) sign checks and pay expenses; |
| d. | A copy of the Administration Agreement and any other service agreements between the Trust and the Administrator; and |
| e. | Such other certificates, documents or opinions which the Sub-Administrator may, in its reasonable discretion, deem necessary or appropriate in the proper performance of its duties. |
| 3. | R EPRESENTATIONS AND W ARRANTIES OF THE S UB - ADMINISTRATOR |
The Sub-Administrator represents and warrants to the Administrator that:
| a. | It is a Massachusetts trust company, duly organized and existing under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts; |
| b. | It has the requisite power and authority to carry on its business in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts; |
| c. | All requisite corporate proceedings have been taken to authorize it to enter into and perform this Agreement; |
| d. | No legal or administrative proceedings have been instituted or threatened which would materially impair the Sub-Administrators ability to perform its duties and obligations under this Agreement; |
| e. | Its entrance into this Agreement shall not cause a material breach or be in material conflict with any other agreement or obligation of the Sub-Administrator or any law or regulation applicable to it; and |
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| f. | The Sub-Administrator has duly adopted written policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to prevent violation of the Federal Securities Laws (as defined in Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act) with respect to the services provided hereunder in respect of the Trust and the Funds. |
| 4. | R EPRESENTATIONS AND W ARRANTIES OF THE A DMINISTRATOR |
The Administrator represents and warrants to the Sub-Administrator that:
| a. | It is a corporation, duly organized, existing and in good standing under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts; |
| b. | It has the requisite power and authority under applicable laws and by its organizational documents to enter into and perform this Agreement; |
| c. | All requisite proceedings have been taken to authorize it to enter into and perform this Agreement; |
| d. | No legal or administrative proceedings have been instituted or threatened which would impair the Administrators ability to perform its duties and obligations under this Agreement; |
| e. | Its entrance into this Agreement will not cause a material breach or be in material conflict with any other agreement or obligation of the Administrator or any law or regulation applicable to it; |
| f. | Where information provided by the Administrator, the Trust or the Trusts investors includes information about an identifiable individual (Personal Information), the Administrator represents and warrants that it has obtained all consents and approvals, as required by all applicable laws, regulations, by-laws and ordinances that regulate the collection, processing, use or disclosure of Personal Information, necessary to disclose such Personal Information to the Sub-Administrator, and as required for the Sub-Administrator to use and disclose such Personal Information in connection with the performance of the services hereunder. The Administrator acknowledges that the Sub-Administrator may perform any of the services, and may use and disclose Personal Information outside of the jurisdiction in which it was initially collected by the Administrator or the Trust, including the United States and that information relating to the Trust, including Personal Information may be accessed by national security authorities, law enforcement and courts. The Sub-Administrator shall be kept indemnified by the Administrator and be without liability to the Administrator or the Trust for any action taken or omitted by it in reliance upon this representation and warranty, including without limitation, any liability or costs in connection with claims or complaints for failure to comply with any applicable law that regulates the collection, processing, use or disclosure of Personal Information. |
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| g. | With respect to the Trust, the Sub-Administrator is not responsible for ensuring that: |
| (1) | The Trust is a business trust duly organized, existing and in good standing under the laws of the state of its formation; |
| (2) | The Trust is an investment company properly registered under the 1940 Act; |
| (3) | The registration statement under the 1933 Act and 1940 Act has been filed by the Trust and is effective and will remain in effect during the term of this Agreement; |
| (4) | As of the effective date of this Agreement, all necessary filings under the securities laws of the states in which the Trust offers or sells its shares have been made; and |
| (5) | As of the close of business on the date of this Agreement, the Trust is authorized to issue shares of beneficial interest. |
| 5. | S UB -A DMINISTRATION S ERVICES |
The Sub-Administrator shall provide the following services, subject to the control, supervision, authorization and direction of the Administrator, the Trust or the Fund and, in each case where appropriate, the review and comment by the Administrators or the Trusts auditors and legal counsel and in accordance with procedures which may be established from time to time between the Administrator and the Sub-Administrator:
General Services
| a. | Assist the Funds in preparing for and handling regulatory examinations, inquiries and investigations, including working closely with counsel to the Funds and counsel to the trustees that are not interested persons of the Funds under the 1940 Act (Independent Trustees); |
| b. | Provide and maintain office facilities for the Funds (which may be in the offices of the Sub-Administrator or an affiliate); |
| c. | Furnish for the Trust a Secretary and one or more Assistant Secretaries as provided by the Funds Bylaws, if so appointed by the Board, who shall perform corporate secretarial services as provided in the Bylaws, including assisting in the coordination of Board meetings and the preparation and distribution of materials and reports for meetings of the Board, the Independent Trustees and committees of the Board of Trustees of the Board (the Board); |
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Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Sub-Administration Services will also include the following duties:
Fund Administration Treasury Services
| d. | Monitor and coordinate all aspects of the Funds accounting functions, including, without limitation, as applicable internal controls over financial reporting, income and expense accruals, accounts receivable and payable, portfolio valuation (including monitoring compliance with Rule 2a-7 as well as reviewing and reporting on asset valuations), securities lending, interfund lending, Rule 12b-1 and certain servicing payments and the Independent Trustees deferred compensation plan; |
| e. | Prepare, in cooperation with and subject to review by the Funds investment adviser and Fund counsel where applicable, all necessary financial information that will be included in the Funds semi-annual and annual shareholder reports, Form N-CSR, Form N-Q and other of the Funds regulatory filings and quarterly reports to the Funds Board (as mutually agreed upon by the Board, Counsel to the Independent Trustees, the Funds Counsel or the Funds investment adviser, as appropriate), including tax footnote disclosures where applicable; |
| f. | Prepare, in cooperation with and subject to review by the Funds investment adviser and Fund counsel where applicable, the Funds periodic financial reports required to be filed with the SEC on Forms N-SAR and N-CSR and financial information required by Form N-1A and periodic updates thereto, proxy statements and such other reports, forms or filings as set forth in section (y) hereto and as may be mutually agreed upon; |
| g. | Prepare for review by an officer of the Funds, the Funds annual fund expense budgets, perform accrual analyses and rollforward calculations and recommend changes to fund expense accruals on a periodic basis, review calculations, submit for approval by officers of the Funds and arrange for payment of the Funds expenses, review calculations of fees paid to the Funds investment adviser, custodian, fund accountant, distributor, and transfer agent, and obtain authorization of accrual changes and expense payments; |
| h. | Provide periodic post trade testing of the Funds with respect to compliance with the Internal Revenue Codes mandatory qualification requirements, the requirements of the 1940 Act and limitations for each Fund contained in the Registration Statement for the Funds, including quarterly compliance reporting to the Funds officers as well as preparation of Board compliance materials; |
| i. | Provide total return performance data for each Fund, including such information on an after-tax basis, calculated in accordance with all applicable securities laws and regulatory requirement, and as may be reasonably requested by the Funds management; |
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| j. | Prepare and coordinate the filing of Rule 24f-2 notices, including coordination of payment to the SEC by the Funds; |
| k. | Maintain certain books and records of the Funds as required under Rule 31a-1(b) of the 1940 Act and as may be mutually agreed upon; |
Fund Administration Money Market Fund Services
The following services enumerated as l., m. and n. below are applicable to those Funds which are money market funds under Rule 2a-7 of the 1940 Act:
| l. | Prepare for posting on the Funds website each money market funds monthly schedule of portfolio investments; |
| m. | Prepare and coordinate each money market funds monthly filing of Form N-MFP; |
| n. | Prepare and coordinate each money market funds filing of Form N-CR pursuant to language to be agreed upon between the parties in an amendment to this Agreement no later than the effective date of Form N-CR. |
Fund Administration Legal Services
| o. | Prepare and distribute the agenda and background materials for all Board meetings and the meetings of the Boards committees, attend and make presentations at Board and Board committee meetings where appropriate or requested, prepare minutes for all Board and Board committee meetings; facilitate communications with, and the activities of, the Funds Independent Trustees and their Counsel; facilitate meetings of the Funds independent chairman, monitor and coordinate the follow-up on matters raised at any Board, Board committee and chairmans meetings; and attend shareholder meetings and prepare minutes of all such meetings; |
| p. | Refer to the Funds officers or transfer agent, and, as appropriate the Board, any shareholder inquiries relating to the Funds to the extent that the Sub-Administrator is the first party to become aware of such inquiries. |
| q. | Compile and maintain the Funds Trustees and Officers Questionnaires; |
| r. | In cooperation with the Funds Chief Compliance Officer and investment adviser, prepare and file with the SEC: Form N-CSR; Form N-Q; Form N-PX; and Form N-1A, including all necessary amendments, updates and sticker supplements of the prospectus and statement of additional information for each Fund as well as certain of the Funds other communications with the SEC regarding the Funds regulatory filings; |
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| s. | In cooperation with and subject to review by the Funds investment adviser, prepare any necessary proxy statements, file such statements with the SEC and provide consultation on proxy solicitation matters; |
| t. | Assist the Funds in all other required filings of the Funds made with the SEC (such as exemptive applications and no-action letter requests) or any other regulatory entities, including state corporation reports and private letter ruling requests with the IRS; |
| u. | Maintain general Board calendars and regulatory filings calendars; |
| v. | Act as liaison to counsel to the Funds and counsel to the Independent Trustees; |
| w. | In cooperation with and subject to review by the Funds Chief Compliance Officer and investment adviser, assist in developing and periodically reviewing the Funds 1940 Act Rule 38a-1 Compliance Policies and Procedures Manual; |
| x. | Maintain continuing awareness of significant emerging regulatory and legislative developments that may affect the Funds, update the Board, Fund officers and the investment adviser or sub-adviser on those developments and provide related planning assistance where requested or appropriate; |
| y. | Coordinate the Funds insurance coverage, including facilitating the solicitation of bids for Directors & Officers/Errors & Omissions (D&O/E&O) insurance and fidelity bond coverage, file fidelity bonds with the SEC and make related Board presentations; |
| z. | Coordinate the quarterly and annual compliance reporting of the Sub-Administrator for review by the Funds Chief Compliance Officer; |
| aa. | Participate and assist in the preparation and filing of responses to inspections or examinations, where applicable, by the SEC and other regulatory authorities; |
| bb. | Coordinate the printing of the prospectus and shareholder financial reports; |
| cc. | With respect to the Funds so designated on Schedule A, coordinate and oversee the vendors providing state securities (blue sky) registration and maintenance and, in connection therewith, perform the services detailed in Schedule B hereto, as amended, modified, or supplemented from time to time; |
Fund Administration Tax Services
| dd. | Compute tax basis provisions for both excise and income tax purposes; |
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| ee. | Prepare initial federal, state and local income tax returns for the Funds and direct, assist and coordinate the review of the Funds federal, state, and local income tax returns and any required extension requests by the Funds independent accountants, as paid tax preparers, and execution and filing by the Funds treasurer, including Form 1120-RIC, Form 8613 and Forms 1099; |
| ff. | Coordinate Form 1099 mailings; and |
| gg. | Review and approve periodic income distribution calculations, including estimates, and annual minimum distribution calculations (income and capital gain) prior to their declaration. |
The Sub-Administrator shall perform such other services for the Administrator for which the Administrator will pay such fees, including the Sub-Administrators reasonable out-of-pocket expenses as may be mutually agreed upon by the Administrator and Sub-Administrator from time to time. The provision of such services shall be subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
| 6. | F EES ; E XPENSES ; E XPENSE R EIMBURSEMENT |
The Sub-Administrator shall receive such compensation for the Sub-Administrators services provided pursuant to this Agreement as may be agreed to from time to time in a written Fee Schedule approved by the parties. The fees are accrued daily and billed monthly and shall be due and payable upon receipt of the invoice. Upon the termination of this Agreement before the end of any month, the fee for the part of the month before such termination shall be prorated according to the proportion which such part bears to the full monthly period and shall be payable upon the date of termination of this Agreement. In addition, the Sub-Administrator shall be reimbursed for its out-of-pocket costs incurred in connection with this Agreement and agreed to from time to time in a written Fee Schedule approved by the parties. All rights of compensation and expense reimbursement under this Agreement for services performed as of the termination date shall survive the termination of this Agreement.
The Administrator agrees promptly to reimburse the Sub-Administrator for any equipment and supplies specially ordered by or for the Trust through the Sub-Administrator and for any other expenses not contemplated by this Agreement that the Sub-Administrator may incur on the Administrators or Trusts behalf at the Administrators or Trusts request or with the Administrators or Trusts consent.
The Administrator and/or the Trust, as the case may be, will bear all expenses that are incurred in the operation of the Trust and not specifically assumed by the Sub-Administrator. Trust expenses not assumed by the Sub-Administrator include, but are not limited to: organizational expenses; cost of services of independent accountants and outside legal and tax counsel (including such counsels review of the Registration Statement, Form N-CSR, Form N-Q, Form N-PX, Form N-MFP, Form N-SAR, proxy materials, federal and state tax qualification as a regulated investment company and other notices, registrations, reports, filings and materials prepared by the Sub-Administrator under this Agreement); cost of any services contracted for by
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the Trust directly from parties other than the Sub-Administrator; cost of trading operations and brokerage fees, commissions and transfer taxes in connection with the purchase and sale of securities for the Trust; investment advisory fees; taxes, insurance premiums and other fees and expenses applicable to its operation; costs incidental to any meetings of shareholders including, but not limited to, legal and accounting fees, proxy filing fees and the costs of preparation (e.g., typesetting, XBRL-tagging, page changes and all other print vendor and EDGAR charges, collectively referred to herein as Preparation), printing, distribution and mailing of any proxy materials; costs incidental to Board meetings, including fees and expenses of Board members; the salary and expenses of any officer, director\trustee or employee of the Trust; costs of Preparation, printing, distribution and mailing, as applicable, of the Trusts Registration Statements and any amendments and supplements thereto and shareholder reports; cost of Preparation and filing of the Trusts tax returns, Form N-1A, Form N-CSR, Form N-Q, Form N-PX, Form N-MFP and Form N-SAR, and all notices, registrations and amendments associated with applicable federal and state tax and securities laws; all applicable registration fees and filing fees required under federal and state securities laws; the cost of fidelity bond and D&O/E&O liability insurance; and the cost of independent pricing services used in computing the Fund(s) net asset value.
The Sub-Administrator is authorized to and may employ, associate or contract with such person or persons as the Sub-Administrator may deem desirable to assist it in performing its duties under this Agreement; provided, however, that the compensation of such person or persons shall be paid by the Sub-Administrator and that the Sub-Administrator shall be as fully responsible to the Administrator for the acts and omissions of any such person or persons as it is for its own acts and omissions.
| 7. | I NSTRUCTIONS AND A DVICE |
At any time, the Sub-Administrator may apply to any officer of the Administrator or his or her designee for instructions and may consult with the independent accountants for the Administrator or the Trust at the expense of the Administrator, with respect to any matter arising in connection with the services to be performed by the Sub-Administrator under this Agreement.
The Sub-Administrator shall not be liable, and shall be indemnified by the Administrator, for any action taken or omitted by it in good faith in reliance upon any such instructions or advice or upon any paper or document believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed by the proper person or persons. The Sub-Administrator shall not be held to have notice of any change of authority of any person until receipt of written notice thereof from the Fund(s). Nothing in this section shall be construed as imposing upon the Sub-Administrator any obligation to seek such instructions or advice, or to act in accordance with such advice when received.
| 8. | L IMITATION OF L IABILITY AND I NDEMNIFICATION |
The Sub-Administrator shall be responsible for the performance only of such duties as are set forth in this Agreement and, except as otherwise provided under Section 6, shall have no responsibility for the actions or activities of any other party, including other service providers. The Sub-Administrator shall have no liability in respect of any loss, damage or expense suffered by the Administrator insofar as such loss, damage or expense arises from the performance of the
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Sub- Administrators duties hereunder in reliance upon records that were maintained for the Administrator or the Trust by entities other than the Sub-Administrator prior to the Sub-Administrators appointment as administrator for the Administrator. The Sub-Administrator shall have no liability for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss or damage resulting from the performance or nonperformance of its duties hereunder unless such loss or damage arises directly from, and then only to the extent of, the negligence or willful misconduct of the Sub-Administrator, its officers or employees. The Sub-Administrator shall not be liable for any special, indirect, incidental, punitive or consequential damages, including lost profits, of any kind whatsoever (including, without limitation, attorneys fees) under any provision of this Agreement or for any such damages arising out of any act or failure to act hereunder, each of which is hereby excluded by agreement of the parties regardless of whether such damages were foreseeable or whether either party or any entity had been advised of the possibility of such damages. In any event, except as otherwise agreed to in writing by the parties hereto, the Sub-Administrators cumulative liability for each calendar year (a Liability Period) with respect to the services performed under this Agreement regardless of the form of action or legal theory shall be limited to its total annual compensation earned and fees payable hereunder during the preceding Compensation Period, as defined herein, for any liability or loss suffered by the Administrator including, but not limited to, any liability relating to qualification of the Trust as a regulated investment company or any liability relating to the Trusts compliance with any federal or state tax or securities statute, regulation or ruling during such Liability Period. Compensation Period shall mean the calendar year ending immediately prior to each Liability Period in which the event(s) giving rise to the Sub-Administrators liability for that period have occurred. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Compensation Period for purposes of calculating the annual cumulative liability of the Sub-Administrator for the Liability Period commencing on the date of this Agreement and terminating on December 31, 2015 shall be the date of this Agreement through December 31, 2015, calculated on an annualized basis, and the Compensation Period for the Liability Period commencing January 1, 2016 and terminating on December 31, 2016 shall be the date of this Agreement through December 31, 2015, calculated on an annualized basis.
The Sub-Administrator shall not be responsible or liable for any failure or delay in performance of its obligations under this Agreement arising out of or caused, directly or indirectly, by circumstances beyond its control, including without limitation, work stoppage, power or other mechanical failure, computer virus, natural disaster, governmental action or communication disruption.
The Administrator shall indemnify and hold the Sub-Administrator and its directors, officers, employees and agents harmless from all loss, cost, damage and expense, including reasonable fees and expenses for counsel, incurred by the Sub-Administrator resulting from any claim, demand, action or suit in connection with the Sub-Administrators acceptance of this Agreement, any action or omission by it in the performance of its duties hereunder, or as a result of acting upon any instructions reasonably believed by it to have been duly authorized by the Administrator or the Trust or upon reasonable reliance on information or records given or made by the Administrator or the Trust or the Trusts investment adviser, provided that this indemnification shall not apply to actions or omissions of the Sub-Administrator, its officers or employees in cases of its or their own negligence or willful misconduct.
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The limitation of liability and indemnification contained herein shall survive the termination of this Agreement.
| 9. | C ONFIDENTIALITY |
All information provided under this agreement by a party (the Disclosing Party) to the other party (the Receiving Party) regarding the Disclosing Partys business and operations shall be treated as confidential. Subject to Section 10 below, all confidential information provided under this Agreement by Disclosing Party shall be used, including disclosure to third parties, by the Receiving Party, or its agents or service providers, solely for the purpose of performing or receiving the services and discharging the Receiving Partys other obligations under the Agreement or managing the business of the Receiving Party and its Affiliates (as defined in Section 10 below), including financial and operational management and reporting, risk management, legal and regulatory compliance and client service management. The foregoing shall not be applicable to any information (a) that is publicly available when provided or thereafter becomes publicly available, other than through a breach of this Agreement, (b) that is independently derived by the Receiving Party without the use of any information provided by the Disclosing Party in connection with this Agreement, (c) that is disclosed to comply with any legal or regulatory proceeding, investigation, audit, examination, subpoena, civil investigative demand or other similar process, (d) that is disclosed as required by operation of law or regulation or as required to comply with the requirements of any market infrastructure that the Disclosing Party or its agents direct the Sub-Administrator or its Affiliates to employ (or which is required in connection with the holding or settlement of instruments included in the assets subject to this Agreement) or (e) where the party seeking to disclose has received the prior written consent of the party providing the information, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld.
The undertakings and obligations contained in this Section shall survive the termination or expiration of this Agreement for a period of five (5) years.
| 10. | U SE OF D ATA |
| (a) | In connection with the provision of the services and the discharge of its other obligations under this Agreement, the Sub-Administrator (which term for purposes of this Section 10 includes each of its parent company, braches and affiliates ( Affiliates)) may collect and store information regarding the Administrator or the Trust or Fund and share such information with its Affiliates, agents and service providers in order and to the extent reasonably necessary (i) to carry out the provision of services contemplated under this Agreement and other agreements between the Administrator and the Sub-Administrator or any of its Affiliates and (ii) to carry out management of its businesses, including, but not limited to, financial and operational management and reporting, risk management, legal and regulatory compliance and client service management. |
| (b) |
Subject to paragraph (c) below, the Sub-Administrator and/or its Affiliates (except those Affiliates or business divisions principally engaged in the business of asset |
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| management) may use any data or other information (Data) obtained by such entities in the performance of their services under this Agreement or any other agreement between the Administrator and the Sub-Administrator or one of its Affiliates, including Data regarding transactions and portfolio holdings relating to the Trust/Fund, and publish, sell, distribute or otherwise commercialize the Data; provided that, unless the Administrator otherwise consents, Data is combined or aggregated with information relating to (i) other customers of the Sub-Administrator and/or its Affiliates or (ii) information derived from other sources, in each case such that any published information will be displayed in a manner designed to prevent attribution to or identification of such Data with the Trust/Fund. The Administrator agrees that Sub-Administrator and /or its Affiliates may seek to profit and realize economic benefit from the commercialization and use of the Data, that such benefit will constitute part of the Sub-Administrators compensation for services under this Agreement or such other agreement, and the Sub-Administrator and/or its Affiliates shall be entitled to retain and not be required to disclose the amount of such economic benefit and profit to the Administrator or the Trust/Fund, except upon the reasonable request of the Administrator, acting on behalf of the Board of Trustees of each Trust, for purposes of Section 15(c) of the 1940 Act. |
| (c) | Except as expressly contemplated by this Agreement, nothing in this Section 10 shall limit the confidentiality and data-protection obligations of the Sub-Administrator and its Affiliates under this Agreement and applicable law. The Sub-Administrator shall cause any Affiliate, agent or service provider to which it has disclosed Data pursuant to this Section 10 to comply at all times with confidentiality and data-protection obligations as if it were a party to this Agreement. |
| 11. | C OMPLIANCE WITH G OVERNMENTAL R ULES AND R EGULATIONS ; R ECORDS |
The Administrator acknowledges that the Administrator and Trust assume full responsibility for complying with all securities, tax, commodities and other laws, rules and regulations applicable to each respectively.
In compliance with the requirements of Rule 31a-3 under the 1940 Act, the Sub-Administrator agrees that all records which it maintains for the Administrator shall at all times remain the property of the Administrator, shall be readily accessible during normal business hours, and shall be promptly surrendered upon the termination of the Agreement or otherwise on written request except as otherwise provided in Section 13. The Sub-Administrator further agrees that all records that it maintains for the Trust, or for the Administrator on behalf of the Trust, pursuant to Rule 31a-1 under the 1940 Act will be preserved for the periods prescribed by Rule 31a-2 under the 1940 Act unless any such records are earlier surrendered as provided above. Records may be surrendered in either written or machine-readable form, at the option of the Sub-Administrator.
-12-
| 12. | S ERVICES N OT E XCLUSIVE |
The services of the Sub-Administrator are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Sub-Administrator shall be free to render similar services to others. The Sub-Administrator shall be deemed to be an independent contractor and shall, unless otherwise expressly provided herein or authorized by the Administrator or the Trust from time to time, have no authority to act or represent the Administrator or the Trust in any way or otherwise be deemed an agent of the Administrator or the Trust.
| 13. | E FFECTIVE P ERIOD AND T ERMINATION |
The Agreement shall commence on June 1, 2015 and shall continue for an initial term until May 31, 2016 (the Initial Term), and thereafter shall automatically continue for successive one year periods (each a Renewal Term); provided however, that at any time during the Initial Term or any Renewal Term either party may terminate the Agreement on sixty (60) days prior written notice to the other party. Termination of this Agreement with respect to any Fund shall in no way affect the continued validity of this Agreement with respect to the Trust or any other Fund. Upon termination of this Agreement pursuant to this paragraph with respect to the Trust or any Fund, the Administrator shall pay the Sub-Administrator its compensation due for services rendered prior to the termination date, and shall reimburse Sub-Administrator for its costs, expenses and disbursements with respect to services rendered prior to the termination date. Upon termination of this Agreement, the Sub-Administrator will deliver the Trusts or such Funds records as set forth herein.
| 14. | N OTICES |
Any notice or other communication authorized or required by this Agreement to be given to either party shall be in writing and deemed to have been given when delivered in person or by confirmed facsimile, by overnight delivery through a commercial courier service, or posted by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the following address (or such other address as a party may specify by written notice to the other):
If to the Administrator:
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.
One Lincoln Street
Boston, MA 02111
Attn: Ellen Needham, President
Facsimile: 617-664-4011
If to the Sub-Administrator:
State Street Bank and Trust Company
P.O. Box 5049
Boston, MA 02206-5049
Attn: Senior Vice President and Senior Managing Counsel
Facsimile: 617-662-2702
-13-
| 15. | A MENDMENT |
This Agreement may be amended at any time in writing by mutual agreement of the parties hereto. Each impacted Trust will be notified by the Administrator of any material amendment to this Agreement.
| 16. | A SSIGNMENT |
This Agreement shall not be assigned by either party hereto without the prior consent in writing of the other party, except that the Sub-Administrator may assign this Agreement to an affiliate that is the successor to all or a substantial portion of its business.
| 17. | S UCCESSORS |
This Agreement shall be binding on and shall inure to the benefit of the Administrator and the Sub-Administrator and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
| 18. | D ATA P ROTECTION |
The Sub-Administrator shall implement and maintain a comprehensive written information security program that contains appropriate security measures to safeguard the personal information of the Trusts shareholders, employees, directors and/or officers that the Sub-Administrator receives, stores, maintains, processes or otherwise accesses in connection with the provision of services hereunder. For these purposes, personal information shall mean (i) an individuals name (first initial and last name or first name and last name), address or telephone number plus (a) social security number, (b) drivers license number, (c) state identification card number, (d) debit or credit card number, (e) financial account number or (f) personal identification number or password that would permit access to a persons account or (ii) any combination of the foregoing that would allow a person to log onto or access an individuals account. Notwithstanding the foregoing personal information shall not include information that is lawfully obtained from publicly available information, or from federal, state or local government records lawfully made available to the general public.
| 19. | E NTIRE A GREEMENT |
This Agreement contains the entire understanding between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all previous representations, warranties or commitments regarding the services to be performed hereunder whether oral or in writing, including, without limitation, the agreements set forth in Schedule C hereto (as amended, modified or supplemented, the Prior Agreements). The parties agree that upon the effectiveness of this Agreement, the Prior Agreements shall be terminated.
| 20. | W AIVER |
The failure of a party to insist upon strict adherence to any term of this Agreement on any occasion shall not be considered a waiver nor shall it deprive such party of the right thereafter to insist upon strict adherence to that term or any term of this Agreement. Any waiver must be in writing signed by the waiving party.
-14-
| 21. | S EVERABILITY |
If any provision of this Agreement is invalid or unenforceable, the balance of the Agreement shall remain in effect, and if any provision is inapplicable to any person or circumstance it shall nevertheless remain applicable to all other persons and circumstances.
| 22. | G OVERNING L AW |
This Agreement shall be construed and the provisions thereof interpreted under and in accordance with the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without regard to its conflicts of laws provisions.
| 23. | R EPRODUCTION OF D OCUMENTS |
This Agreement and all schedules, exhibits, attachments and amendments hereto may be reproduced by any photographic, xerographic, photostatic, microfilm, micro-card, miniature photographic or other similar process. The parties hereto all/each agree that any such reproduction shall be admissible in evidence as the original itself in any judicial or administrative proceeding, whether or not the original is in existence and whether or not such reproduction was made by a party in the regular course of business, and that any enlargement, facsimile or further reproduction of such reproduction shall likewise be admissible in evidence.
| 24. | C OUNTERPARTS |
This Agreement may be executed by the parties hereto on any number of counterparts, and all of said counterparts taken together shall be deemed to constitute one and the same instrument.
[Remainder of page intentionally left blank.]
-15-
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed by their officers designated below as of the date first written above.
| SSGA FUNDS MANAGEMENT, INC. | ||
| By: |
/s/ Ellen Needham |
|
| Name: | Ellen Needham | |
| Title: | President | |
| STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY | ||
| By: |
/s/ Gunjan Kedia |
|
| Name: | Gunjan Kedia | |
| Title: | Executive Vice President | |
Sub-Administration Agreement
SUB-ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
SCHEDULE A
Listing of Fund(s)
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund
The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund
The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund
The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund
The Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund
The Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund
The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund
A-1
SUB-ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
SCHEDULE B
Notice Filing with State Securities Administrators
At the specific direction of the Administrator or the Trust, the Sub-Administrator will prepare required documentation and make Notice Filings in accordance with the securities laws of each jurisdiction in which Trust shares are to be offered or sold pursuant to instructions given to the Sub-Administrator by the Administrator or the Trust.
The Administrator shall be solely responsible for the determination (i) of those jurisdictions in which Notice Filings are to be submitted and (ii) the number of Trust shares to be permitted to be sold in each such jurisdiction. In the event that the Sub-Administrator becomes aware of (a) the sale of Trust shares in a jurisdiction in which no Notice Filing has been made or (b) the sale of Trust shares in excess of the number of Trust shares permitted to be sold in such jurisdiction, the Sub-Administrator shall report such information to the Administrator or the Trust, and it shall be the Administrators or the Trusts responsibility to determine appropriate corrective action and instruct the Sub-Administrator with respect thereto.
The Blue Sky services shall consist of the following:
| 1. | Filing of Trusts Initial Notice Filings, as directed by the Trust; |
| 2. | Filing of Trusts renewals and amendments as required; |
| 3. | Filing of amendments to the Trusts registration statement where required; |
| 4. | Filing Trust sales reports where required; |
| 5. | Payment at the expense of the Trust of all Trust Notice Filing fees; |
| 6. | Filing the Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information and any amendments or supplements thereto where required; |
| 7. | Filing of annual reports and proxy statements where required; and |
| 8. | The performance of such additional services as the Sub-Administrator and the Administrator may agree upon in writing. |
Unless otherwise specified in writing by the Sub-Administrator, Blue Sky services by the Sub-Administrator shall not include determining the availability of exemptions under a jurisdictions blue sky law or ensuring the proper application of any such exemptions. Any such determinations shall be made by the Administrator or the Trust or their legal counsel.
B-1
If the Administrator or the Trust has elected to deliver Trust share sales information to the Sub-Administrator via broker-dealer feeds, the Sub-Administrators processing of any such feeds is subject to the supervision and approval of the Trust and the following shall apply.
| 1. | Activation of any broker-dealer feeds, including transfer agent codes or broker codes, will commence as soon as practical after written instructions are received from the Trust. The Sub-Administrator will assume all sales from such feeds are Blue Sky reportable. |
| 2. | The Sub-Administrator will accept and pay Blue Sky fees based on all active and live direct broker-dealer feeds, as instructed by the Trust in writing. |
| 3. | The originating entity, and not the Sub-Administrator, is responsible for the accuracy of all broker-dealer feed information. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Sub-Administrator will not be responsible for (i) reconciling any direct broker-dealer feeds with the Trusts accounting records, (ii) ensuring that omnibus suppressions are effected, (iii) the accuracy of any files transmitted from the transfer agent or broker-dealer systems or (iv) errors or omissions in sales data. The Sub-Administrator will not alter or otherwise manipulate or change the contents of any transfer agent or broker-dealer files routed to the Sub-Administrator. |
| 4. | The Administrator or the Trust will be responsible for ensuring that any direct broker-dealer feeds are deactivated from the main omnibus feed at the Trusts transfer agent as appropriate. The Trust acknowledges that all dropped and dead transfer agent or broker-dealer feeds will automatically be deactivated. |
In connection with the services described herein, the Trust shall issue in favor of the Sub-Administrator a power of attorney to submit Notice Filings on behalf of the Trust, which power of attorney shall be substantially in the form of Exhibit I attached hereto.
B-2
EXHIBIT 1
LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY
KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, as of that (the Trust) on behalf of its currently existing series and all future series (the Funds), with principal offices at , makes, constitutes, and appoints BOSTON FINANCIAL DATA SERVICES, INC. (Boston Financial) with principal offices at 200 Crown Colony Drive, Quincy, Massachusetts 02169 its lawful attorney-in-fact for it to do as if it were itself acting, the following:
1. NOTICE FILINGS FOR FUND SHARES. The power to submit (in any format accepted) notice filings for the Funds in each jurisdiction in which the Funds shares are offered or sold and in connection therewith the power to prepare, execute, and deliver and file (in any format accepted) any and all of the Funds applications including without limitation, applications to provide notice for the Funds shares, consents, including consents to service of process, reports, including without limitation, all periodic reports, or other documents and instruments now or hereafter required or appropriate in the judgment of the Boston Financial in connection with the notice filings of the Funds shares.
2. TRANSMIT FILING FEES. The power to draw, endorse, and deposit checks and/or transmit electronic payments in the name of the Funds in connection with the notice filings of the Funds shares with state securities administrators.
3. AUTHORIZED SIGNERS. Pursuant to this Limited Power of Attorney, individuals holding the titles of Managing Director, Vice President, Compliance Officer, Compliance Group Manager, Compliance Manager, or Compliance Fund Administrator at Boston Financial shall have authority to act on behalf of the Funds with respect to items 1 and 2 above.
The execution of this limited power of attorney shall be deemed coupled with an interest and shall be revocable only upon receipt by Boston Financial of such termination of authority. Nothing herein shall be construed to constitute the appointment of Boston Financial as or otherwise authorize Boston Financial to act as an officer, director or employee of the Trust.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Trust has caused this Agreement to be executed in its name and on its behalf by and through its duly authorized officer, as of the date first written above.
| [NAME] | ||
| By: |
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| Name: |
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| Title: |
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Subscribed and sworn to before me this day of 20 |
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Exh1-1
| Notary Public |
| State of |
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| In and for the County of |
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| My Commission expires |
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Exh1-2
SUB-ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
SCHEDULE C
Prior Agreements
| | Administration Agreement dated as of February 15, 2002 by and between State Street Bank and Trust Company and SPDR Index Shares Funds |
| | Administration Agreement dated as of September 22, 2000 by and between State Street Bank and Trust Company and SPDR Series Trust |
| | Administration Agreement, dated as of April 18, 2012 by and between State Street Bank and Trust Company and SSgA Active Trust |
| | Administration Agreement dated as of January 1, 2013 by and between State Street Bank and Trust Company and SSgA Funds 1 |
| | Administration Agreement dated as of April 18, 2012 by and between State Street Bank and Trust Company and SSgA Master Trust |
| | Administration Agreement dated as of February 28, 2000 by and between State Street Bank and Trust Company and State Street Institutional Investment Trust |
| | Sub-Administration Agreement dated as of February 1, 2011 by and among State Street Bank and Trust Company, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. and State Street Institutional Investment Trust |
| | Administration Agreement dated as of March 1, 2000 by and between State Street Bank and Trust Company and State Street Master Funds |
| | Administration Agreement dated as of March 4, 1996 by and between State Street Bank and Trust Company and State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust |
| | Administration Agreement dated as of December 1, 1998 by and between State Street Bank and Trust Company and The Select Sector SPDR Trust |
| | Money Market Services Agreement dated as of September 1, 2010 by and between State Street Master Funds and State Street Institutional Investment Trust and State Street Bank and Trust Company |
| 1 | Note that this Agreement superseded the Money Market Services Agreement dated September 1, 2010 by and between SSgA Funds and State Street Bank and Trust Company |
C-1
Exhibit (h)(i)(4)
SUB-ADMINISTRATION AGREEMENT
SCHEDULE A
Listing of Fund(s)
| Fund | Authorized Shares | |
|
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLY) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLP) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Energy Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLE) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Financial Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLF) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Health Care Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLV) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Industrial Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLI) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Materials Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLB) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Technology Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLK) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLU) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLFS) |
Unlimited | |
|
The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (XLRE) |
Unlimited |
As of October 6, 2015
Exhibit (h)(ii)(3)
ANNEX A
|
The Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLB | |
|
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLV | |
|
The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLP | |
|
The Healthcare Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLY | |
|
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLE | |
|
The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLF | |
|
The Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLI | |
|
The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLK | |
|
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLU | |
|
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLFS | |
|
The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund |
XLRE |
As of October 6, 2015
Exhibit (h)(iii)(4)
AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO
MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
This amendment (the Amendment) made as of July 22, 2015 (Effective Date), amends the memorandum of agreement dated as of December 15, 1998 (the Sub-License Agreement) by and among The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust (the Trust), Merrill, Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (Merrill Lynch) and S&P Opco, LLC, a subsidiary of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC and a successor-in-interest to Standard & Poors, a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. (S&P).
WITNESSETH THAT:
WHEREAS, pursuant to the license agreement dated November 17, 1998, as amended (the License Agreement), by and among Merrill Lynch, S&P, Archipelago Holdings LLC (as assignee of NYSE Alertnext US (formerly known as American Stock Exchange LLC) and PDR Services LLC), S&P has granted to Merrill Lynch a license to use the S&P 500 Index and the S&P Marks (as defined in the License Agreement) in connection with the issuance, exchange trading, marketing and/or promotion of the series of the Trust, an open-end management investment company consisting of the Products (as defined in the License Agreement);
WHEREAS, the parties entered into the Sub-License Agreement allowing the Trust to use and refer to the S&P Marks and certain Merrill Lynch trademarks in connection with the marketing and promotion of, and making disclosures related to, the Products;
WHEREAS, the parties desire to amend the Sub-License Agreement to add rights to the Select Sector Real Estate and Select Sector Financial Services Indices and related S&P Marks for use in connection with the marketing and promotion of, and making disclosures related to, the Products, and to update the names of the existing Products;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and of the mutual agreements contained herein, the parties agree as follows:
1. Appendix A to the Sub-License Agreement is hereby amended by deleting the Select Sector SPDRs listed therein and replacing them with the following:
|
Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Index |
|
|
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Consumer Discretionary Select Sector | |
|
The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Consumer Staples Select Sector | |
|
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Energy Select Sector | |
|
The Financials Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Financials Select Sector | |
|
The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Health Care Select Sector | |
|
The Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Industrials Select Sector | |
|
The Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Materials Select Sector | |
|
The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Technology Select Sector | |
|
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Utilities Select Sector | |
|
The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Real Estate Select Sector | |
|
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund |
Financial Services Select Sector | |
1
2. This Amendment contains the entire understanding among the parties with respect to the transactions contemplated hereby. To the extent that any provision of this Amendment modifies or is otherwise inconsistent with any provision of the Sub-License Agreement, this Amendment shall control, but the Sub-License Agreement shall otherwise remain in full force and effect.
3. This Amendment may be simultaneously executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be an original and all of which shall constitute but one and the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed by their officers designated below as of the date first written above.
| THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR TRUST | ||
| By: |
/s/ Michael P. Riley |
|
| Name: | Michael P. Riley | |
| Title: | Vice President | |
| MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED | ||
| By: |
/s/ Sandra L. Bolton |
|
| Name: | Sandra L. Bolton | |
| Title: | Managing Director | |
| S&P OPCO, LLC | ||
| By: |
/s/ Steve Rive |
|
| Name: | Steve Rive | |
| Title: | Managing Director | |
2
Exhibit (h)(iv)(2)
Schedule B
This Schedule is attached to and made part of the Securities Lending Authorization Agreement, dated the 6th day of October, 2015 between THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST, ON BEHALF OF EACH OF ITS RESPECTIVE SERIES AS LISTED ON SCHEDULE B, SEVERALLY AND NOT JOINTLY (the Funds) and STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY (State Street).
| Fund Name |
Taxpayer
Identification Number |
Tax-Year End | ||
|
The Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund |
04-3437407 | September 30 | ||
|
The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund |
04-3437406 | September 30 | ||
|
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund |
04-3437408 | September 30 | ||
|
The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund |
04-3437410 | September 30 | ||
|
The Healthcare Select Sector SPDR Fund |
04-3437403 | September 30 | ||
|
The Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund |
04-3437401 | September 30 | ||
|
The Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund |
04-3437400 | September 30 | ||
|
The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund |
04-3437402 | September 30 | ||
|
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund |
04-3437413 | September 30 | ||
|
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund |
47-4778197 | September 30 | ||
|
The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund |
47-4791555 | September 30 |
Exhibit (i)(2)
[Letterhead of Clifford Chance US LLP]
October 6, 2015
The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust
c/o State Street Bank and Trust Company
One Lincoln Street/CPH0326
Boston, Massachusetts 02111
| Re: | Opinion of Counsel regarding Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the Registration Statement filed on Form N-1A under the Securities Act of 1933 (File No. 333-57791) |
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as counsel to The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust (the Trust), in connection with the above-referenced Amendment to the Registration Statement (as so amended, the Registration Statement), which relates to the shares of beneficial interest, $0.01 par value, of The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR ® Fund and The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR ® Fund (collectively, the Shares). This opinion is being delivered to you in connection with the Trusts filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the Registration Statement (the Amendment) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act), and Amendment No. 31 to the Registration Statement under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, in connection with the offering of the Shares. With your permission, all assumptions and statements of reliance herein have been made without any independent investigation or verification on our part except to the extent otherwise expressly stated, and we express no opinion with respect to the subject matter or accuracy of such assumptions or items relied upon. We have reviewed the Trusts Declaration of Trust, as amended (the Declaration), and such other documents and matters as we have deemed necessary to enable us to render this opinion.
Based upon, and subject to, the foregoing, we are of the opinion that the Shares to which the Registration Statement relates when issued and delivered against payment therefor in accordance with the terms, conditions, requirements and procedures described in the Registration Statement, will be validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable, except that, as set forth in the Registration Statement, shareholders of the Trust may, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable for the Trusts obligations.
As to matters of Massachusetts law contained in the foregoing opinions, we have relied upon the opinion of Dechert LLP, dated October 6, 2015.
We have consented to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the Registration Statement and to the reference to us under the heading Counsel and Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm in the Statement of Additional Information forming a part of the Registration
Statement. In giving this consent, we do not concede that we are in the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the 1933 Act.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Clifford Chance US LLP
Exhibit (m)(i)(2)
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLAN
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund
1. The Trust. The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust (the Trust) is an open-end management investment company registered as such under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), and organized as a series trust (each such series is referred to herein as a Fund).
2. The Plan. The Trust desires to adopt a plan of distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act with respect to the shares of beneficial interest (Shares) of each Fund, and the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the Board of Trustees) has determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that adoption of this Distribution and Service Plan (the Plan) will benefit The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR Fund (the Designated Fund) and its holders of Shares. Accordingly, the Designated Fund hereby adopts this Plan in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act on the following terms and conditions (capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein have the meanings assigned thereto in the Funds registration statement under the 1940 Act and under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, as such registration statement is amended by any amendments thereto at the time in effect).
3. The Distributor. The Trust has entered into a written Distribution Agreement with ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. (the Distributor), pursuant to which the Distributor will act as the exclusive distributor with respect to the creation and distribution of Creation Unit size aggregations of Shares as described in the Funds registration statement (Creation Units) of each Fund.
4. Payments. The Designated Fund will pay fees, in the amounts and on the terms set forth below, or as may hereafter be determined by the Board of Trustees, that collectively will not exceed, on an annualized basis, .25% of the Designated Funds average daily net assets for purposes permitted by Rule 12b-1. Such fees may include payments made on the following basis:
(a) a portion of the fees (the Distributors Fee), calculated daily and payable quarterly, equal to such Designated Funds allocable portion of the amount of $225,000 per annum payable to the Distributor for its distribution-related services to all Funds that have adopted the Distribution Agreement and the plan under Rule 12b-1, including, without limitation, for (A) acting as agent of the Designated Fund with respect to the sale of Shares in Creation Unit size aggregations as set forth in the Funds registration statement referred to above, (B) generating and transmitting confirmations of purchases of Creation Unit aggregations of Shares and delivering copies of the Funds Prospectus and/or Statement of Additional Information included in the registration statement in connection with purchases thereof and to prospective purchases; (C) clearing and filing all advertising, sales and marketing and promotional materials of the Trust with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (the FINRA); (D) maintaining access to telephonic, facsimile or direct computer communications links with The Depository Trust Company (DTC) and State Street Bank and Trust Company as the Funds custodian, administrator and transfer agent; and (E) such other services and obligations as are set forth in the Distribution Agreement;
(b) a portion of the fees (the 12b-1 Administration Fee), calculated daily and payable quarterly, equal to the Designated Funds allocable portion of (i) .01% per annum of the average aggregate daily net assets, calculated on a daily basis (Aggregate Net Assets), of all Funds that have adopted the Distribution Agreement and the plan under Rule 12b-1, up to and including Aggregate Net Assets of $1.0 billion, plus (ii) .0075% per annum of Aggregate Net Assets of all such Funds in excess of $1.0 billion up to and including $2.5 billion, plus (iii) .005% per annum of Aggregate Net Assets of all such Funds in excess of $2.5 billion up to and including $5 billion, plus (iv) .0025% per annum of Aggregate Net Assets of all such Funds in excess of $5.0 billion, shall be paid to the Distributor, quarterly in arrears, for administering this 12b-1 Plan in accordance with the terms hereof, including preparing reports, keeping appropriate records, making payments and reimbursements to third parties as provided for hereby and verifying the appropriateness of such payments;
(c) the remainder of the fees, not to exceed, on an annualized basis, .25% of the average daily net assets of the Designated Fund, less any applicable Distributors Fee and 12b-1 Administration Fee, paid or payable by the Designated Fund to the Distributor, shall be used, subject to the provision of this Plan, to pay for any activities primarily intended to result in the sale of Shares of the Designated Fund in Creation Unit aggregations or secondary market trading or for the provision of investor and shareholder services to holders of Shares, including, but not limited to:
| (i) | payments to registered broker-dealers, banks and/or other persons (each, an Investor Services Organization or ISO) of investor and shareholder services fees (Investor Services Fees), to be computed daily and payable quarterly, in each case pursuant to a separate agreement with the Distributor, in substantially the forms approved by the Board of Trustees and attached as exhibits hereto (each an Investor Services Agreement), as compensation for broker-dealer, investor and shareholder support, account maintenance and educational and promotional services relating to the Shares (which may include compensation and sales incentives to the registered brokers or other sales personnel of an ISO under an Investor Services Agreement and facilitation through broker-dealers and other persons of communications with beneficial owners of Shares), which shall be provided by the respective ISO pursuant to such agreement with respect to all Funds subject thereto. Such compensation to any ISO shall be in an amount as set forth in the individual Investor Services Agreement, provided that , no ISO shall be entitled to receive Investor Services Fees of more than .10% of average daily net assets per annum of the Designated Fund attributable to the Shares subject to such Agreement; |
| (ii) |
reimbursing the Distributor, or another party or parties pursuant to arrangements with the Distributor, to the extent of any amounts remaining under this Plan after payment of the fees provided for pursuant to subparagraphs (a), (b) and (c)(i) hereof, not to exceed, on an annualized basis, .25% of the Designated Funds average daily net assets together with all other amounts to be paid hereunder, for promotional and marketing activities related to the sale of Shares of the Designated Fund in Creation Unit aggregations or in secondary market trading, including, but not limited to, payment for (A) the printing and distribution costs of |
2
| the Funds Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, except for such printing and distribution costs as are incurred by the Designated Fund directly in connection with Prospectuses and/or Statements of Additional Information required to be sent to existing shareholders; and (B) the production and distribution of advertisements and other promotional, sales and marketing materials relating to the sale of Shares of the Designated Fund (other than as provided above). |
(d) Distribution-related expenses incurred in any one year to the Distributor under paragraph (c)(ii) above in reimbursement of certain expenses of marketing or promotional activities of the Designated Fund shall not be used to pay for reimbursement of similar expenses with respect to any other Fund. The aggregate Distributors Fee and 12b-1 Administration Fees payable by all Funds shall be allocated among the Funds pro rata in accordance with the average daily net assets of each Fund, and reimbursement of expenses for such activities and services attributable to the Funds as a whole shall be allocated to each Fund according to the method adopted by the Board of Trustees. The Distributors allocation of fees and other expenditures hereunder shall be subject to the annual review of the Board of Trustees.
Any agreement between the Trust and the Distributor or the Distributor and any other party referred to above shall be approved by the Board of Trustees as a related agreement under this Plan. All agreements related to this Plan (including the Distribution Agreement and each Investor Services Agreement) shall be in writing and shall provide: (A) that such agreement may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees (as defined in subparagraph (e) below) or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Designated Fund, on not more than 60 days written notice to any other party to the agreement, and (B) that such agreement shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act). The Investor Services Agreement shall require the ISO to provide the Distributor with such information as is reasonably necessary to permit the Distributor to comply with the reporting requirements set forth in paragraph 9 hereof. For purposes thereof, each Investor Services Agreement shall provide that the ISO claiming Investor Services Fees under this Plan must represent in writing in connection with the reports and information to be provided to the Distributor: (i) that it has been engaged in the requisite activities enumerated in subparagraph (c)(i) of this Plan and the respective Investor Services Agreement, and (ii) that the positions reported as representing its holdings of Shares at each of the three month ends in any quarterly period hereunder are true, accurate and complete.
(e) Distribution expenses incurred in any one year in excess of 0.25% of each Funds average daily net assets may be reimbursed in subsequent years subject to the annual 0.25% limit and subject further to the approval of the Board of Trustees including a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust (as defined in the 1940 Act) and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of this Plan or in any agreement related to this Plan (the Independent Trustees).
5. Effective Date. This Plan shall become effective upon approval by a vote of both a majority of the Board of Trustees and a majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan.
6. Term . This Plan shall, unless terminated as hereinafter provided, remain in effect with respect to the Designated Fund for one year from its effective date and shall continue thereafter,
3
provided that its continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a vote of both a majority of the Trustees and a majority of Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan.
7. Amendment. This Plan may be amended at any time by the Board of Trustees, provided that (a) any amendment to increase materially the amount to be spent for the services provided for in paragraph 4 hereof shall be effective only upon approval by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) of the Designated Fund, and (b) any material amendment of this Plan shall be effective only upon approval by a vote of both a majority of the Board of Trustees and a majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such amendment.
8. Termination. This Plan may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) of the Designated Fund. In the event of termination or non-continuance of this Plan, the Trust may reimburse any expense which it incurred prior to such termination or non-continuance, provided that such reimbursement is specifically approved by both a majority of the Board of Trustees and a majority of the Independent Trustees.
9. Reports. While this Plan is in effect, the Distributor shall provide to the Trustees, and the Trustees shall review, at least quarterly, a written report of the amounts expended pursuant to the Plan and the purposes for which such expenditures were made.
10. Records. The Trust shall preserve copies of this Plan, each agreement related hereto and each report referred to in paragraph 9 hereof for a period of at least six years from the date of the Plan, agreement and report, the first two years in an easily accessible place.
11. Independent Trustees. While this Plan is in effect, the selection and nomination of Independent Trustees shall be committed to the discretion of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust (as defined in the 1940 Act).
12. Severability . If any provision of the Plan shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of the Plan shall not be affected thereby.
Plan adopted August 6, 2015
4
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLAN
The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund
1. The Trust. The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust (the Trust) is an open-end management investment company registered as such under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), and organized as a series trust (each such series is referred to herein as a Fund).
2. The Plan. The Trust desires to adopt a plan of distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act with respect to the shares of beneficial interest (Shares) of each Fund, and the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the Board of Trustees) has determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that adoption of this Distribution and Service Plan (the Plan) will benefit The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Fund (the Designated Fund) and its holders of Shares. Accordingly, the Designated Fund hereby adopts this Plan in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act on the following terms and conditions (capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein have the meanings assigned thereto in the Funds registration statement under the 1940 Act and under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, as such registration statement is amended by any amendments thereto at the time in effect).
3. The Distributor. The Trust has entered into a written Distribution Agreement with ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc. (the Distributor), pursuant to which the Distributor will act as the exclusive distributor with respect to the creation and distribution of Creation Unit size aggregations of Shares as described in the Funds registration statement (Creation Units) of each Fund.
4. Payments. The Designated Fund will pay fees, in the amounts and on the terms set forth below, or as may hereafter be determined by the Board of Trustees, that collectively will not exceed, on an annualized basis, .25% of the Designated Funds average daily net assets for purposes permitted by Rule 12b-1. Such fees may include payments made on the following basis:
(a) a portion of the fees (the Distributors Fee), calculated daily and payable quarterly, equal to such Designated Funds allocable portion of the amount of $225,000 per annum payable to the Distributor for its distribution-related services to all Funds that have adopted the Distribution Agreement and the plan under Rule 12b-1, including, without limitation, for (A) acting as agent of the Designated Fund with respect to the sale of Shares in Creation Unit size aggregations as set forth in the Funds registration statement referred to above, (B) generating and transmitting confirmations of purchases of Creation Unit aggregations of Shares and delivering copies of the Funds Prospectus and/or Statement of Additional Information included in the registration statement in connection with purchases thereof and to prospective purchases; (C) clearing and filing all advertising, sales and marketing and promotional materials of the Trust with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (the FINRA); (D) maintaining access to telephonic, facsimile or direct computer communications links with The Depository Trust Company (DTC) and State Street Bank and Trust Company as the Funds custodian, administrator and transfer agent; and (E) such other services and obligations as are set forth in the Distribution Agreement;
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(b) a portion of the fees (the 12b-1 Administration Fee), calculated daily and payable quarterly, equal to the Designated Funds allocable portion of (i) .01% per annum of the average aggregate daily net assets, calculated on a daily basis (Aggregate Net Assets), of all Funds that have adopted the Distribution Agreement and the plan under Rule 12b-1, up to and including Aggregate Net Assets of $1.0 billion, plus (ii) .0075% per annum of Aggregate Net Assets of all such Funds in excess of $1.0 billion up to and including $2.5 billion, plus (iii) .005% per annum of Aggregate Net Assets of all such Funds in excess of $2.5 billion up to and including $5 billion, plus (iv) .0025% per annum of Aggregate Net Assets of all such Funds in excess of $5.0 billion, shall be paid to the Distributor, quarterly in arrears, for administering this 12b-1 Plan in accordance with the terms hereof, including preparing reports, keeping appropriate records, making payments and reimbursements to third parties as provided for hereby and verifying the appropriateness of such payments;
(c) the remainder of the fees, not to exceed, on an annualized basis, .25% of the average daily net assets of the Designated Fund, less any applicable Distributors Fee and 12b-1 Administration Fee, paid or payable by the Designated Fund to the Distributor, shall be used, subject to the provision of this Plan, to pay for any activities primarily intended to result in the sale of Shares of the Designated Fund in Creation Unit aggregations or secondary market trading or for the provision of investor and shareholder services to holders of Shares, including, but not limited to:
| (i) | payments to registered broker-dealers, banks and/or other persons (each, an Investor Services Organization or ISO) of investor and shareholder services fees (Investor Services Fees), to be computed daily and payable quarterly, in each case pursuant to a separate agreement with the Distributor, in substantially the forms approved by the Board of Trustees and attached as exhibits hereto (each an Investor Services Agreement), as compensation for broker-dealer, investor and shareholder support, account maintenance and educational and promotional services relating to the Shares (which may include compensation and sales incentives to the registered brokers or other sales personnel of an ISO under an Investor Services Agreement and facilitation through broker-dealers and other persons of communications with beneficial owners of Shares), which shall be provided by the respective ISO pursuant to such agreement with respect to all Funds subject thereto. Such compensation to any ISO shall be in an amount as set forth in the individual Investor Services Agreement, provided that , no ISO shall be entitled to receive Investor Services Fees of more than .10% of average daily net assets per annum of the Designated Fund attributable to the Shares subject to such Agreement; |
| (ii) |
reimbursing the Distributor, or another party or parties pursuant to arrangements with the Distributor, to the extent of any amounts remaining under this Plan after payment of the fees provided for pursuant to subparagraphs (a), (b) and (c)(i) hereof, not to exceed, on an annualized basis, .25% of the Designated Funds average daily net assets together with all other amounts to be paid hereunder, for promotional and marketing activities related to the sale of Shares of the Designated Fund in Creation Unit aggregations or in secondary market trading, including, but not limited to, payment for (A) the printing and distribution costs of |
6
| the Funds Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, except for such printing and distribution costs as are incurred by the Designated Fund directly in connection with Prospectuses and/or Statements of Additional Information required to be sent to existing shareholders; and (B) the production and distribution of advertisements and other promotional, sales and marketing materials relating to the sale of Shares of the Designated Fund (other than as provided above). |
(d) Distribution-related expenses incurred in any one year to the Distributor under paragraph (c)(ii) above in reimbursement of certain expenses of marketing or promotional activities of the Designated Fund shall not be used to pay for reimbursement of similar expenses with respect to any other Fund. The aggregate Distributors Fee and 12b-1 Administration Fees payable by all Funds shall be allocated among the Funds pro rata in accordance with the average daily net assets of each Fund, and reimbursement of expenses for such activities and services attributable to the Funds as a whole shall be allocated to each Fund according to the method adopted by the Board of Trustees. The Distributors allocation of fees and other expenditures hereunder shall be subject to the annual review of the Board of Trustees.
Any agreement between the Trust and the Distributor or the Distributor and any other party referred to above shall be approved by the Board of Trustees as a related agreement under this Plan. All agreements related to this Plan (including the Distribution Agreement and each Investor Services Agreement) shall be in writing and shall provide: (A) that such agreement may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees (as defined in subparagraph (e) below) or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Designated Fund, on not more than 60 days written notice to any other party to the agreement, and (B) that such agreement shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act). The Investor Services Agreement shall require the ISO to provide the Distributor with such information as is reasonably necessary to permit the Distributor to comply with the reporting requirements set forth in paragraph 9 hereof. For purposes thereof, each Investor Services Agreement shall provide that the ISO claiming Investor Services Fees under this Plan must represent in writing in connection with the reports and information to be provided to the Distributor: (i) that it has been engaged in the requisite activities enumerated in subparagraph (c)(i) of this Plan and the respective Investor Services Agreement, and (ii) that the positions reported as representing its holdings of Shares at each of the three month ends in any quarterly period hereunder are true, accurate and complete.
(e) Distribution expenses incurred in any one year in excess of 0.25% of each Funds average daily net assets may be reimbursed in subsequent years subject to the annual 0.25% limit and subject further to the approval of the Board of Trustees including a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust (as defined in the 1940 Act) and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of this Plan or in any agreement related to this Plan (the Independent Trustees).
5. Effective Date. This Plan shall become effective upon approval by a vote of both a majority of the Board of Trustees and a majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan.
6. Term . This Plan shall, unless terminated as hereinafter provided, remain in effect with respect to the Designated Fund for one year from its effective date and shall continue thereafter,
7
provided that its continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a vote of both a majority of the Trustees and a majority of Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan.
7. Amendment. This Plan may be amended at any time by the Board of Trustees, provided that (a) any amendment to increase materially the amount to be spent for the services provided for in paragraph 4 hereof shall be effective only upon approval by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) of the Designated Fund, and (b) any material amendment of this Plan shall be effective only upon approval by a vote of both a majority of the Board of Trustees and a majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such amendment.
8. Termination. This Plan may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) of the Designated Fund. In the event of termination or non-continuance of this Plan, the Trust may reimburse any expense which it incurred prior to such termination or non-continuance, provided that such reimbursement is specifically approved by both a majority of the Board of Trustees and a majority of the Independent Trustees.
9. Reports. While this Plan is in effect, the Distributor shall provide to the Trustees, and the Trustees shall review, at least quarterly, a written report of the amounts expended pursuant to the Plan and the purposes for which such expenditures were made.
10. Records. The Trust shall preserve copies of this Plan, each agreement related hereto and each report referred to in paragraph 9 hereof for a period of at least six years from the date of the Plan, agreement and report, the first two years in an easily accessible place.
11. Independent Trustees. While this Plan is in effect, the selection and nomination of Independent Trustees shall be committed to the discretion of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust (as defined in the 1940 Act).
12. Severability . If any provision of the Plan shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of the Plan shall not be affected thereby.
Plan adopted August 6, 2015
8
Exhibit (m)(iii)(2)
Amendment No. 1 to Marketing Agreement
This Amendment, dated as of October 5, 2015, to the Marketing Agreement (this Amendment), by and between The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust, a Massachusetts business trust (the Trust) and ALPS Fund Services, Inc., a Colorado corporation, having its principal place of business at 1290 Broadway, Suite 1100, Denver, Colorado 80203 (ALPS).
WHEREAS, the Trust and ALPS entered into a Marketing Agreement dated October 1, 2013 (the Agreement); and
WHEREAS, the Trust and ALPS wish to amend the provisions of the Agreement to reflect the addition of two new Funds offered under the Trust; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereby agree to amend the Agreement as follows:
1. The parties hereto agree to delete the introductory clause of the first sentence of Section 5 (ending at the colon) and (a) (just after the colon) in their entirety and replace them with the following:
Subject to the terms and conditions of the 12b-1 Plans, each Fund will pay to ALPS a fee for its services hereunder, calculated daily and payable monthly, equal to such Funds allocable portion of the aggregate fees payable by the Funds, as follows:
| (a) | 0.0325% per annum of the aggregate daily net assets of all Funds (Aggregate Net Assets) up to $9 Billion;. |
2. The parties hereto agree to delete the current Appendix A to the Agreement in its entirety and replace it with a new Appendix A attached hereto.
3. Except as specifically set forth herein, all other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect. Any items not herein defined shall have the meaning ascribed to them in the Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Amendment as of the day and year first above written.
| SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST | ALPS FUND SERVICES, INC. | |||||||
| By: |
/s/ Jesse Hallee |
By: |
/s/ Bradley J. Swenson |
|||||
| Name: | Jesse Hallee | Name: | Bradley J. Swenson | |||||
| Title: | Secretary | Title: | Senior Vice President, CCO | |||||
Appendix A
FUND
The Consumer Discretionary Select SPDR Fund (XLY)
The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP)
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE)
The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF)
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR (XLFS)
The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV)
The Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI)
The Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB)
The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR (XLRE)
The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK)
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU)
As of October 5, 2015
Exhibit (m)(iv)(2)
Amendment No. 1 to Distribution and Service Fee Agreement
This Amendment, dated as of October 5, 2015, to the Distribution and Service Fee Agreement (this Amendment), by and between The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust, a Massachusetts business trust (the Trust) and ALPS Portfolio Solutions Distributor, Inc., a Colorado corporation, having its principal place of business at 1290 Broadway, Suite 1100, Denver, Colorado 80203 (the Distributor).
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Distributor entered into a Distribution and Service Fee Agreement dated October 1, 2013 (the Agreement); and
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Distributor wish to amend the provisions of the Agreement to reflect the addition of two new Funds offered under the Trust; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereby agree to amend the Agreement as follows:
1. The parties hereto agree to delete the current Appendix A to the Agreement in its entirety and replace it with a new Appendix A attached hereto.
2. Except as specifically set forth herein, all other provisions of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect. Any items not herein defined shall have the meaning ascribed to them in the Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Amendment as of the day and year first above written.
| SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST | ALPS PORTFOLIO SOLUTIONS DISTRIBUTOR, INC. | |||||||
| By: |
/s/ Jesse Hallee |
By: |
/s/ Bradley J. Swenson |
|||||
| Name: | Jesse Hallee | Name: | Bradley J. Swenson | |||||
| Title: | Secretary | Title: | Senior Vice President, CCO | |||||
Appendix A
FUND
The Consumer Discretionary Select SPDR Fund (XLY)
The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP)
The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE)
The Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLF)
The Financial Services Select Sector SPDR (XLFS)
The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLV)
The Industrial Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLI)
The Materials Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLB)
The Real Estate Select Sector SPDR (XLRE)
The Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLK)
The Utilities Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLU)
As of October 5, 2015
Exhibit (q)(ii)
THE SELECT SECTOR SPDR ® TRUST
POWER OF ATTORNEY
The undersigned Trustee of The Select Sector SPDR ® Trust (the Trust) hereby constitutes and appoints Joshua Weinberg, Esq., Jesse Hallee, Esq. and Patricia A. Morisette, Esq., each of them with full powers of substitution, as his or her true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent to execute in his or her name and on his or her behalf in any and all capacities the Registration Statements on Form N-1A, and any and all amendments thereto, and all other documents, filed by the Trust or its affiliates with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and (as applicable) the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any and all instruments which such attorneys and agents, or any of them, deem necessary or advisable to enable the Trust or its affiliates to comply with such Acts, the rules, regulations and requirements of the SEC, the securities, Blue Sky and/or corporate/trust laws of any state or other jurisdiction, including all documents necessary to ensure the Trust has insurance and fidelity bond coverage, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith, with the SEC and such other jurisdictions, and the undersigned hereby ratifies and confirms as his or her own act and deed any and all acts that such attorneys and agents, or any of them, shall do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. Any one of such attorneys and agents has, and may exercise, all of the powers hereby conferred. The undersigned hereby revokes any Powers of Attorney previously granted with respect to the Trust concerning the filings and actions described herein.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have hereunto set their hands as of the 1 st day of October 2015.
| SIGNATURE | TITLE | |
|
/s/ Ashley T. Rabun |
Trustee | |
| Ashley T. Rabun | ||