As filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on August 25, 2016
1933 Act File No. 333-30810
1940 Act File No. 811-09819
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
FORM N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 | x | |||
Post-Effective Amendment No. 226 | x |
and
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 | x | |||
Amendment No. 227 | x |
STATE STREET INSTITUTIONAL INVESTMENT TRUST
P.O. Box 5049, Boston, Massachusetts 02206
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
(617) 664-7037
(Registrants Telephone Number)
Joshua A. Weinberg, Esq.
Vice President and Managing Counsel
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.
One Lincoln Street
Boston, MA 02111
Copy to:
Timothy W. Diggins, Esq.
Ropes & Gray LLP
800 Boylston Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02199-3600
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box):
¨ | Immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b) |
¨ | On (date) pursuant to paragraph (b) |
¨ | 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) |
x | On August 26, 2016 pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485. |
¨ | 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) |
¨ | On (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485. |
If appropriate, check the following box:
¨ | This post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment. |
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price) | None |
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of the lower of the sale proceeds or the original offering price) | None |
Management Fee | 0.05% |
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees | 0.00% |
Other Expenses 1 | 0.12% |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses 2 | 0.17% |
1 | Other expenses are based on estimates for the current fiscal year. |
2 | The Fund's investment adviser, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the “Adviser” or “SSGA FM”), may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid a negative yield (the “Voluntary Reduction”), or a yield below a specified level, which may vary from time to time in the Adviser's sole discretion. The Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2012. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund. Any future reimbursement by the Fund of the Voluntary Reduction would increase the Fund's expenses and reduce the Fund's yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. |
1 year | 3 years | 5 years | 10 years | |||
$17 | $55 | $96 | $217 |
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund | 1-Year | 5-Years | 10-Years |
Inception
Date |
||||
Premier Class | 0.12% | 0.13% | 1.43% | 8/12/2004 |
Trust Class | |
To establish an account | $15,000,000 |
To add to an existing account | No minimum |
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price) | None |
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of the lower of the sale proceeds or the original offering price) | None |
Management Fee | 0.05% |
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees | 0.00% |
Other Expenses 1 | 0.15% |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses | 0.20% |
Less Fee Waivers and/or Expense Reimbursements 2 | (0.02)% |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waivers and/or Expense Reimbursements | 0.18% |
1 | Other expenses are based on estimates for the current fiscal year. |
2 | The Fund's investment adviser, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the “Adviser” or “SSGA FM”), is contractually obligated until April 30, 2018 to waive its management fee and/or to reimburse the Fund for expenses to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (exclusive of non-recurring account fees, extraordinary expenses, acquired fund fees and any class specific expenses such as Distribution, Shareholder Servicing, Administration, and Sub-Transfer Agency Fees, as measured on an annualized basis) exceed 0.07% of average daily net assets on an annual basis. This waiver and/or reimbursement may not be terminated prior to April 30, 2018 except with approval of the Fund's Board of Trustees. The Adviser may also voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid a negative yield (the “Voluntary Reduction”), or a yield below a specified level, which may vary from time to time in the Adviser's sole discretion. The Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2012. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund. Any future reimbursement by the Fund of the Voluntary Reduction would increase the Fund's expenses and reduce the Fund's yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. |
1 year | 3 years | 5 years | 10 years | |||
$18 | $62 | $111 | $253 |
State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund | 1-Year | 5-Years |
Since
Inception |
Inception
Date |
||||
Premier Class | 0.00% | 0.01% | 0.29% | 10/24/2007 |
Trust Class | |
To establish an account | $15,000,000 |
To add to an existing account | No minimum |
• | more than three years after the end of the fiscal year for the Fund in which the Adviser provided a Voluntary Reduction; |
• | in respect of any business day for which the net annualized one-day yield is less than 0.00%; |
• | to the extent that the amount of the reimbursement to the Adviser on any day exceeds fifty percent of the yield (net of all expenses, exclusive of the reimbursement) of a Fund on that day; |
• | to the extent that the amount of such reimbursement would cause the Fund's net yield to fall below the Fund's minimum net yield as determined by the Adviser in its sole discretion; or |
• | in respect of any fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements that are necessary to maintain a Fund's contractual total expense limit which is effective at the time of such fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. |
By Mail: |
An
initial investment in the Funds must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Institutional Account Application Form, sent to:
State Street Funds P.O. Box 8048 Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048 |
By Overnight: |
State
Street Funds
30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809 |
By Telephone/Fax: |
An initial investment in the Funds must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Institutional Account Application Form, faxed to (816) 218-0400. Call the Fund at (866) 392-0869 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. ET and 5:00 p.m. ET to: |
➣ confirm
receipt of the faxed Institutional Account Application Form (initial purchases only),
➣ request your new account number (initial purchases only), ➣ confirm the amount being wired and wiring bank, and ➣ receive a confirmation number for your purchase order (your trade is not effective until you have received a confirmation number from the Fund). |
For your initial investment, send the original, signed Institutional Account Application Form to the address above. |
Wire Instructions: |
Instruct
your bank to transfer money by Federal Funds wire to:
State Street Bank and Trust Company 1 Iron Street Boston, MA 02110 |
ABA#
011000028
DDA# 9904-631-0 State Street Institutional Investment Trust Fund Name Class Name Account Number Account Registration |
On Columbus Day and Veterans Day, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because the Federal Funds wiring does not occur on those days. Payment for Fund Shares must be in Federal Funds (or converted to Federal Funds by the Transfer Agent) by the close of the Federal Reserve. |
You will not be able to redeem shares from the account until the original Application has been received. The Funds and the Funds' agents are not responsible for transfer errors by the sending or receiving bank and will not be liable for any loss incurred due to a wire transfer not having been received. |
By Mail: |
Send
a signed letter to:
State Street Institutional Investment Trust Funds P.O. Box 8048 Boston, MA 02205-8048 |
The letter should include information necessary to process your request as described below. The Fund may require a medallion guarantee in certain circumstances. See “Medallion Guarantees” below. | |
By Overnight: |
State
Street Institutional Investment Trust Funds
30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809 |
By Telephone: | Please call (866) 392-0869 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET. |
The Funds will need the following information to process your redemption request: | |
➣ name(s)
of account owners;
➣ account number(s); ➣ the name of the Fund; ➣ your daytime telephone number; and ➣ the dollar amount or number of shares being redeemed. |
• | Your account address has changed within the last 10 business days. |
• | Redemption proceeds are being transferred to an account with a different registration. |
• | A wire is being sent to a financial institution other than the one that has been established on your Fund account. |
• | Other unusual situations as determined by the Transfer Agent. |
Net
Asset
Value Beginning of Period |
Net
Investment Income/(Loss) |
Gain
(Loss) on Investments |
Total
from
Investment Operations |
Distributions
from Net Investment Income |
Distributions
from Capital Gains |
Total
Distributions |
||||||||
Period Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
Premier Class | ||||||||||||||
2015 | $1.0000 | $0.0012 | $ 0.0000 (d) | $0.0012 | $(0.0012) | $ – | $(0.0012) | |||||||
2014 | $1.0000 | $0.0008 | $(0.0001) | $0.0007 | $(0.0007) | $ – | $(0.0007) | |||||||
2013 | $1.0000 | $0.0010 | $ 0.0000 (d) | $0.0010 | $(0.0010) | $(0.0000) (d) | $(0.0010) | |||||||
2012 | $1.0000 | $0.0020 | $ 0.0000 (d) | $0.0020 | $(0.0020) | $(0.0000) (d) | $(0.0020) | |||||||
2011 | $1.0000 | $0.0015 | $ 0.0000 (d) | $0.0015 | $(0.0015) | $ – | $(0.0015) |
(a) | The per share amounts and percentages include the Fund's proportionate share of income and expenses of the corresponding Portfolio. |
(b) | Total return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares at net asset value on the first day and a sale at net asset value on the last day of each period reported. Distributions are assumed, for the purpose of this calculation, to be reinvested at net asset value per share on the respective payment dates. Total return for periods of less than one year are not annualized. Results represent past performance and are not indicative of future results. |
(c) | This expense waiver is reflected in both the net operating expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Without these waivers, net investment income would have been lower. |
(d) | Amount is less than $0.00005 per share. |
(e) | Amount is less than 0.005%. |
Net Asset
Value End of Period |
Ratios to Average Net Assets/Supplemental Data |
Net
Assets
End of Year (000s omitted) |
||||||||||||
Period Ended December 31, |
Total
Return (b) |
Gross
Expenses |
Net
Expenses |
Net
Investment Income |
Expense
Waiver (c) |
|||||||||
Premier Class | ||||||||||||||
2015 | $1.0000 | 0.12% | 0.12% | 0.12% | 0.12% | – | $45,207,442 | |||||||
2014 | $1.0000 | 0.07% | 0.12% | 0.12% | 0.07% | – | $37,932,781 | |||||||
2013 | $1.0000 | 0.10% | 0.12% | 0.12% | 0.10% | – | $29,850,029 | |||||||
2012 | $1.0000 | 0.20% | 0.12% | 0.12% | 0.20% | – | $24,408,802 | |||||||
2011 | $1.0000 | 0.15% | 0.12% | 0.12% | 0.15% | – | $19,597,264 |
Net
Asset
Value Beginning of Year |
Net
Investment Income/(Loss) |
Gain
(Loss) on Investments |
Total
from
Investment Operations |
Distributions
from Net Investment Income |
Distributions
from Capital Gains |
Total
Distributions |
||||||||
Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
Premier Class | ||||||||||||||
2015 | $1.0000 | $ 0.0000 (d) | $0.0000 (d) | $0.0000 (d) | $(0.0000) (d) | $ – | $(0.0000) (d) | |||||||
2014 | $1.0000 | $ 0.0000 (d) | $0.0000 (d) | $0.0000 (d) | $ – | $ – | $ – | |||||||
2013 | $1.0000 | $(0.0001) | $0.0001 | $0.0000 (d) | $(0.0000) (d) | $(0.0000) (d) | $(0.0000) (d) | |||||||
2012 | $1.0000 | $ 0.0002 | $0.0000 (d) | $0.0002 | $(0.0002) | $ – | $(0.0002) | |||||||
2011 | $1.0000 | $ 0.0001 | $0.0000 (d) | $0.0001 | $(0.0001) | $ – | $(0.0001) |
(a) | The per share amounts and percentages include the Fund's proportionate share of income and expenses of the Portfolio. |
(b) | Total return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares at net asset value on the first day and a sale at net asset value on the last day of each period reported. Distributions are assumed, for the purpose of this calculation, to be reinvested at net asset value per share on the respective payment dates. Results represent past performance and are not indicative of future results. |
(c) | This expense waiver is reflected in both the net operating expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Without these waivers, net investment income would have been lower. |
(d) | Amount is less than $0.00005 per share. |
(e) | Amount is less than 0.005%. |
Net Asset
Value End of Year |
Ratios to Average Net Assets/Supplemental Data |
Net
Assets
End of Year (000s omitted) |
||||||||||||
Year Ended December 31, |
Total
Return (b) |
Gross
Expenses |
Net
Expenses |
Net
Investment Income |
Expense
Waiver (c) |
|||||||||
Premier Class | ||||||||||||||
2015 | $1.0000 | 0.00% (e) | 0.14% | 0.06% | 0.00% (e) | 0.08% | $1,684,652 | |||||||
2014 | $1.0000 | 0.00% (e) | 0.13% | 0.05% | 0.00% (e) | 0.08% | $2,690,959 | |||||||
2013 | $1.0000 | 0.00% (e) | 0.13% | 0.08% | 0.00% (e) | 0.05% | $2,679,596 | |||||||
2012 | $1.0000 | 0.02% | 0.14% | 0.11% | 0.02% | 0.03% | $2,203,141 | |||||||
2011 | $1.0000 | 0.01% | 0.14% | 0.06% | 0.01% | 0.08% | $1,220,159 |
Online: | www.ssga.com/cash | 24 hours a day, 7 days a week |
Phone: | (877) 521-4083 | Monday – Friday 8 am – 5 pm EST |
Regular mail | Registered, Express, Certified Mail |
State
Street Funds
P.O. Box 8317 Boston, MA 02266-8317 |
State
Street Funds
30 Dan Road Canton, MA 02021 |
ILRTRCLSTATPRO | The State Street Institutional Investment Trust's Investment Company Act File Number is 811-09819. |
Prospectus
Dated August 26, 2016
State Street Institutional
Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Class M (SSLXX)
The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
An investment in the Fund offered by this Prospectus is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.
The Fund may offer multiple classes of shares. This Prospectus covers only the Class M share class.
Effective October 12, 2016, State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund is a floating net asset value money market fund. The share price of this Fund will fluctuate beginning on that date.
None of State Street Corporation, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Global Advisors, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. or their affiliates (State Street Entities) guarantee the value of your investment at $1.00 per share. Investors should have no expectation of capital support to the Fund from State Street Entities.
1 | ||
1 | ||
Additional Information About Investment Objectives, Principal Strategies and Risks |
7 | |
Additional Information About Non-Principal Investment Strategies and Risks |
13 | |
14 | ||
15 | ||
16 | ||
21 | ||
22 | ||
24 |
Investment Objective
The investment objective of State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund (the ILR Fund or sometimes referred to in context as the Fund) is to seek to maximize current income, to the extent consistent with the preservation of capital and liquidity, by investing in U.S. dollar-denominated money market securities.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the ILR Fund (Fund Shares). The expenses shown in the table and the Example reflect the expenses of the Fund and the Funds proportionate share of the expenses of the State Street Money Market Portfolio (the Money Market Portfolio or sometimes referred to in context as the Portfolio).
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price) |
None | |||
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of the lower of the sale proceeds or the original offering price) |
None |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Management Fee |
0.05 | % | ||
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees |
0.00 | % | ||
Other Expenses |
0.05 | % | ||
|
|
|||
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (1) |
0.10 | % | ||
|
|
(1) |
The Funds investment adviser, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the Adviser or SSGA FM), may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid a negative yield (the Voluntary Reduction), or a yield below a specified level, which may vary from time to time in the Advisers sole discretion. The Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2012. As of December 31, 2015, the Adviser had not waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses under the Voluntary Reduction. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund. Any future reimbursement by the Fund of the Voluntary Reduction would increase the Funds expenses and reduce the Funds yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. |
Example:
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated, and then sell all of your Fund Shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year |
3 Years |
5 Years |
10 Years |
|||
$10 |
$32 | $56 | $128 |
Principal Investment Strategies
The ILR Fund follows a disciplined investment process in which SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (SSGA FM or the Adviser), the investment adviser to the Fund, bases its decisions on the relative attractiveness of different money market instruments. In the Advisers opinion, the attractiveness of an instrument may vary depending on the general level of interest rates, as well as imbalances of supply and demand in the market. The Fund invests in accordance with regulatory requirements applicable to money market funds, which require, among other things, the Fund to invest only in short-term, high quality debt obligations (generally, securities that have remaining maturities of 397 calendar days or less and either have been rated in one of the two highest short-term rating categories or are considered by the Fund to be of comparable quality), to maintain a maximum dollar-weighted average maturity of sixty (60) days or less, and to meet requirements as to portfolio diversification and liquidity.
The Fund currently seeks to maintain a stable net asset value (NAV) per share of $1.00 by valuing its portfolio securities using amortized cost. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will continue to be a money market fund and the NAV of the Funds shares
1
will float, fluctuating with changes in the values of the Funds portfolio securities. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will typically accept purchase and redemption orders multiple times per day, and calculate its NAV at each such time.
The Fund attempts to meet its investment objective by investing in a broad range of money market instruments. These may include among other things: U.S. government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds and other securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest, as applicable, by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposits and time deposits of U.S. and foreign banks (including ECDs, ETDs and YCDs (as defined below); commercial paper and other high quality obligations of U.S. or foreign companies; asset-backed securities, including asset-backed commercial paper; mortgage-related securities; and repurchase agreements. These instruments may bear fixed, variable or floating rates of interest or may be zero-coupon securities. The Fund also may invest in shares of other money market funds, including funds advised by the Adviser. Under normal market conditions, the Fund intends to invest more than 25% of its total assets in bank obligations. A substantial portion of the Fund may be invested in securities that are issued or traded pursuant to exemptions from registration under the federal securities laws.
European Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by a bank outside of the United States. European Time Deposits (ETDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks. Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. These instruments have different risks than those associated with the obligations of U.S. banks operating in the United States.
The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Money Market Portfolio, which has substantially similar investment policies to the Fund. When the Fund invests in this master-feeder structure, the Funds only investments are shares of the Portfolio, and it participates in the investment returns achieved by the Portfolio. Descriptions in this section of the investment activities of the Fund also generally describe the expected investment activities of the Portfolio.
Principal Risks
You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or any other government agency. Although the Fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, the paragraph above is replaced by the paragraph below:
You could lose money by investing in the Fund. Under new requirements for money market funds, beginning October 12, 2016, the Fund will no longer buy and sell its shares at a fixed NAV per share, but will instead buy and sell its shares using a floating NAV reflecting the current market-based values of its portfolio holdings. Because the share price of the Fund will fluctuate, when you sell your shares they may be worth more or less than what you originally paid for them. The Fund may impose a fee upon the sale of your shares or may temporarily suspend your ability to sell shares if the Funds liquidity falls below required minimums because of market conditions or other factors. An investment in the Fund is subject to investment risks, including possible loss of principal, is not a deposit in a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The Funds sponsor has no legal obligation to provide financial support to the Fund, and you should not expect that the sponsor will provide financial support to the Fund at any time.
General risks associated with the Funds and the Portfolios investment policies and investment strategies are discussed below.
Counterparty Risk: The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties with which the Fund enters into repurchase agreements and other transactions. If a counterparty fails to meet its contractual obligations, the Fund may be unable to terminate the transaction, and it may be delayed or prevented from realizing on any collateral in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding relating to the counterparty.
Debt Securities Risk: The values of debt securities may increase or decrease as a result of the following: market fluctuations, increases in interest rates, actual or perceived inability or unwillingness of issuers, guarantors or liquidity providers to make scheduled principal or interest payments or illiquidity in debt securities markets; the risk of low rates of return due to reinvestment of securities during periods of falling interest rates or repayment by issuers with higher coupon or interest rates; and/or the risk of low income due to falling interest rates. To the extent that interest rates rise, certain underlying obligations may be paid off substantially slower than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. A rising interest rate environment may cause the value of the Funds fixed income securities to decrease, an adverse impact on the liquidity of the Funds fixed
2
income securities, and increased volatility of the fixed income markets. If the principal on a debt obligation is prepaid before expected, the prepayments of principal may have to be reinvested in obligations paying interest at lower rates. During periods of falling interest rates, the income received by the Fund may decline. Changes in interest rates will likely have a greater effect on the values of debt securities of longer durations. Returns on investments in debt securities could trail the returns on other investment options, including investments in equity securities.
Financial Institutions Risk: Changes in the creditworthiness of financial institutions (such as banks and broker-dealers) may adversely affect the values of instruments of issuers in financial industries. Adverse developments in banking and other financial industries may cause the Fund to underperform relative to other funds that invest more broadly across different industries or have a smaller exposure to financial institutions. Changes in governmental regulation and oversight of financial institutions may have an adverse effect on the financial condition of a financial institution.
Income Risk: The Funds income may decline due to falling interest rates or other factors. Issuers of securities held by the Fund may call or redeem the securities during periods of falling interest rates, and the Fund would likely be required to reinvest in securities paying lower interest rates. If an obligation held by the Fund is prepaid, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayment in other obligations paying income at lower rates.
Large Shareholder Risk: To the extent a large proportion of the interests of the Portfolio are held by a small number of investors (or a single investor), including funds or accounts over which the Adviser has investment discretion, the Portfolio is subject to the risk that these investors will purchase or redeem Portfolio interests in large amounts rapidly or unexpectedly, including as a result of an asset allocation decision made by the Adviser. These transactions could adversely affect the ability of the Portfolio to conduct its investment program.
Liquidity Risk: Lack of a ready market or restrictions on resale may limit the ability of the Fund to sell a security at an advantageous time or price or at all. Illiquid securities may trade at a discount from comparable, more liquid investments and may be subject to wide fluctuations in market value. Illiquidity of the Funds holdings may limit the ability of the Fund to obtain cash to meet redemptions on a timely basis. In addition, the Fund, due to limitations on investments in any illiquid securities and/or the difficulty in purchasing and selling such investments, may be unable to achieve its desired level of exposure to a certain market or sector.
Low Short-Term Interest Rates: At the date of this Prospectus, short-term interest rates are at historically low levels, and so the Funds yield is very low. It is possible that the Fund will generate an insufficient amount of income to pay its expenses, and that it will not be able to pay a daily dividend and may have a negative yield (i.e., it may lose money on an operating basis). It is possible that the Fund will maintain a substantial portion of its assets in cash, on which it would earn little, if any, income.
Market Risk: The Funds investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, and general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities markets. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors including, but not limited to, economic growth or recession, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived creditworthiness of issuers, and general market liquidity. The Fund is subject to the risk that geopolitical events will disrupt securities markets and adversely affect global economies and markets.
Master/Feeder Structure Risk: The Fund pursues its objective by investing substantially all of its assets in another pooled investment vehicle (a master fund). The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the ability of the master fund to meet its investment objective. The Adviser serves as investment adviser to the master fund, leading to potential conflicts of interest. The Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the expenses incurred by the master fund. Substantial redemptions by other investors in a master fund may affect the master funds investment program adversely and limit the ability of the master fund to achieve its objective.
Money Market Fund Regulatory Risk: In July 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted regulatory changes that will affect the structure and operation of money market funds. The revised regulations impose new liquidity requirements on money market funds, permit (and in some cases require) money market funds to impose liquidity fees on redemptions, and permit money market funds to impose gates restricting redemptions from the funds. Institutional money market funds will be required to have a floating NAV. (U.S. government money market funds are exempt from a number of the new regulations.) There are a number of other changes under the revised regulations that relate to diversification, disclosure, reporting and stress testing requirements. These changes and other proposed amendments to the regulations governing money market funds could significantly affect the money market fund industry generally and the operation or performance of the Fund specifically and may have significant adverse effects on a money market funds investment return and on the liquidity of investments in money market funds.
3
Money Market Risk: An investment in a money market fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Although a money market fund generally seeks to preserve the value of its shares at $1.00 per share, there can be no assurance that it will do so, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund. A major or unexpected increase in interest rates or a decline in the credit quality of an issuer or entity providing credit support, an inactive trading market for money market instruments, or adverse market, economic, industry, political, regulatory, geopolitical, and other conditions could cause a money market funds share price to fall below $1.00. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will not maintain a constant net asset value per share. Beginning at that time, the value of the Funds shares will be calculated to four decimal places and will vary reflecting the value of the portfolio of investments held by the Fund. It is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.
Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk: Investments in mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to the risk of significant credit downgrades, illiquidity, and defaults to a greater extent than many other types of fixed-income investments. During periods of falling interest rates, mortgage- and asset-backed securities may be called or prepaid, which may result in the Fund having to reinvest proceeds in other investments at a lower interest rate. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of mortgage- and asset-backed securities may extend, which may lock in a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and interest rate sensitivity, and reduce the value of the security. Enforcing rights against the underlying assets or collateral may be difficult, and the underlying assets or collateral may be insufficient if the issuer defaults.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk: Non-U.S. securities (including depositary receipts) are subject to political, regulatory, and economic risks not present in domestic investments. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. entity than about a U.S. entity, and many non-U.S. entities are not subject to accounting, auditing, legal and financial report standards comparable to those in the United States. Further, such entities and/or their securities may be subject to risks associated with currency controls; expropriation; changes in tax policy; greater market volatility; differing securities market structures; higher transaction costs; and various administrative difficulties, such as delays in clearing and settling portfolio transactions or in receiving payment of dividends. Securities traded on foreign markets may be less liquid (harder to sell) than securities traded domestically. Foreign governments may impose restrictions on the repatriation of capital to the U.S. In addition, to the extent investments are made in a limited number of countries, events in those countries will have a more significant impact on the Fund. Investments in depositary receipts may be less liquid and more volatile than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.
Rapid Changes in Interest Rates Risk: Rapid changes in interest rates may cause significant requests to redeem Fund Shares, and possibly cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities at a loss to satisfy those requests.
Repurchase Agreement Risk: Repurchase agreements may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. If the Funds counterparty should default on its obligations and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the collateral, or if the value of the collateral is insufficient, the Fund may realize a loss.
U.S. Government Securities Risk: Certain U.S. Government securities are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States; others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agencys obligations; and still others are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency, instrumentality, or enterprise. Although U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) may be chartered or sponsored by Congress, they are not funded by Congressional appropriations, and their securities are not issued by the U.S. Treasury, are not supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, and involve increased credit risks.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities Risk: During periods of increasing interest rates, changes in the coupon rates of variable or floating rate securities may lag behind the changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in coupon rates. Alternatively, during periods of declining interest rates, the coupon rates on such securities will typically readjust downward resulting in a lower yield. In addition, investment in derivative variable rate securities, such as inverse floaters, whose rates vary inversely with market rates of interest, or range floaters or capped floaters, whose rates are subject to periodic or lifetime caps, or in securities that pay a rate of interest determined by applying a multiple to the variable rate involves special risks as compared to investment in a fixed-rate security and may involve leverage.
Zero Coupon Bond Risk: Zero-coupon bonds usually trade at a deep discount from their face or par values and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current distributions of interest.
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Performance
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the ILR Fund by illustrating the variability of the Funds returns for Class M Shares from year-to-year. The Funds past performance does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Additionally, the performance information prior to December 15, 2011, the inception date for Class M Shares, is that of the Premier Class shares (formerly, the Institutional Class shares) of the ILR Fund. The Premier Class shares inception date was August 12, 2004. Returns of Class M would have been similar to the returns shown for Premier Class because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities. Returns would differ only to the extent that Class M does not have the same expenses as Premier Class. Current performance information for the Fund is available toll free by calling (877) 521-4083 or by visiting our website at www.ssga.com/cash .
Annual Total Returns (years ended 12/31)
Highest Quarterly Return: 1.33% (Q4, 2006)
Lowest Quarterly Return: 0.02% (Q1, 2015)
Average Annual Total Returns (for periods ended 12/31/15)
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund |
1-Year | 5-Years | 10-Years |
Inception
Date |
||||||||||||
Class M |
0.14 | % | 0.14 | % | 1.44 | % | 12/15/2011 |
To obtain the Funds current yield, please call (877) 521-4083.
Investment Adviser
SSGA FM serves as the investment adviser to the Fund.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
Purchase Minimums
To establish an account |
$750,000,000 | |
To add to an existing account |
No minimum |
You may purchase or redeem Fund Shares on any day the Fund is open for business.
You may purchase or redeem Fund Shares by written request or wire transfer. Written requests should be sent to:
By Mail:
State Street Funds
P.O. Box 8048
Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048
By Overnight:
State Street Funds
30 Dan Road
Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809
By Telephone:
For wire transfer instructions, please call (866) 392-0869 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time. Redemptions by telephone are permitted only if you previously have been authorized for these transactions.
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By Intermediary:
If you wish to purchase or redeem Fund Shares through a broker, bank or other financial intermediary (Financial Intermediary), please contact that Financial Intermediary directly. Your Financial Intermediary may have different or additional requirements for opening an account and/or for the processing of purchase and redemption orders, or may be closed at times when the Fund is open.
Financial Intermediaries may contact the Boston Financial Data Services Group at (877) 332-6207 or email them at nsccresearch@bostonfinancial.com with questions.
Tax Information
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Funds distributions are generally taxed as ordinary income, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or individual retirement account. Any withdrawals made from such tax-advantaged arrangement may be taxable to you.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
If you purchase Fund Shares through a broker-dealer or other Financial Intermediary (such as a bank), the Adviser or its affiliates may pay the Financial Intermediary for certain activities related to the Fund, including educational training programs, conferences, the development of technology platforms and reporting systems, or other services related to the sale or promotion of the Fund. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your Financial Intermediarys website for more information.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES, PRINCIPAL STRATEGIES AND RISKS
Investment Objective
The investment objective of the Fund, as stated in the Fund Summary, may be changed without shareholder approval.
Principal Investment Strategies
The ILR Fund follows a disciplined investment process in which SSGA FM bases its decisions on the relative attractiveness of different money market instruments. In the Advisers opinion, the attractiveness of an instrument may vary depending on the general level of interest rates, as well as imbalances of supply and demand in the market. The Fund invests in accordance with regulatory requirements applicable to money market funds, which require, among other things, the Fund to invest only in short-term, high quality debt obligations (generally, securities that have remaining maturities of 397 calendar days or less and either have been rated in one of the two highest short-term rating categories or are considered by the Fund to be of comparable quality), to maintain a maximum dollar-weighted average maturity of sixty (60) days or less, and to meet requirements as to portfolio diversification and liquidity.
The Fund currently seeks to maintain a stable net asset value (NAV) per share of $1.00 by valuing its portfolio securities using amortized cost. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will continue to be a money market fund and the NAV of the Funds shares will float, fluctuating with changes in the values of the Funds portfolio securities. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will typically accept purchase and redemption orders multiple times per day, and calculate its NAV at each such time.
The Fund attempts to meet its investment objective by investing in a broad range of money market instruments. These may include among other things: U.S. government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds and other securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest, as applicable, by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposits and time deposits of U.S. and foreign banks (including ECDs, ETDs and YCDs (as defined below); commercial paper and other high quality obligations of U.S. or foreign companies; asset-backed securities, including asset-backed commercial paper; mortgage-related securities; and repurchase agreements. These instruments may bear fixed, variable or floating rates of interest or may be zero-coupon securities. The Fund also may invest in shares of other money market funds, including funds advised by the Adviser. Under normal market conditions, the Fund intends to invest more than 25% of its total assets in bank obligations. A substantial portion of the Fund may be invested in securities that are issued or traded pursuant to exemptions from registration under the federal securities laws.
European Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by a bank outside of the United States. European Time Deposits (ETDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks. Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. These instruments have different risks than those associated with the obligations of U.S. banks operating in the United States.
The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Money Market Portfolio, which has substantially similar investment policies to the Fund. When the Fund invests in this master-feeder structure, the Funds only investments are shares of the Portfolio, and it participates in the investment returns achieved by the Portfolio. Descriptions in this section of the investment activities of the Fund also generally describe the expected investment activities of the Portfolio.
Additional Information About Risks
Call/Prepayment Risk . Call/prepayment risk is the risk that an issuer will exercise its right to pay principal on an obligation held by the Fund earlier than expected or required. This may occur, for example, when there is a decline in interest rates, and an issuer of bonds or preferred stock redeems the bonds or stock in order to replace them with obligations on which it is required to pay a lower interest or dividend rate. It may also occur when there is an unanticipated increase in the rate at which mortgages or other receivables underlying mortgage- or asset-backed securities held by the Fund are prepaid. In any such case, the Fund may be forced to invest the prepaid amounts in lower-yielding investments, resulting in a decline in the Funds income.
Counterparty Risk . The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties with which the Fund enters into repurchase agreements and other transactions. If a counterparty fails to meet its contractual obligations, the Fund may be unable to terminate the transaction, and it may be delayed or prevented from realizing on any collateral in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding relating to the counterparty.
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Credit Risk . Credit risk is the risk that an issuer, guarantor or liquidity provider of a fixed-income security held by the Fund may be unable or unwilling, or may be perceived (whether by market participants, ratings agencies, pricing services or otherwise) as unable or unwilling, to make timely principal and/or interest payments, or to otherwise honor its obligations. It includes the risk that the security will be downgraded by a credit rating agency; generally, lower credit quality issuers present higher credit risks. An actual or perceived decline in creditworthiness of an issuer of a fixed-income security held by the Fund may result in a decrease in the value of the security. It is possible that the ability of an issuer to meet its obligations will decline substantially during the period when the Fund owns securities of the issuer or that the issuer will default on its obligations or that the obligations of the issuer will be limited or restructured. The credit rating assigned to any particular investment does not necessarily reflect the issuers current financial condition and does not reflect an assessment of an investments volatility or liquidity. Securities rated in the lowest category of investment grade are considered to have speculative characteristics. If a security held by the Fund loses its rating or its rating is downgraded, the Fund may nonetheless continue to hold the security in the discretion of the Adviser. In the case of asset-backed or mortgage-related securities, changes in the actual or perceived ability of the obligors on the underlying assets or mortgages to make payments of interest and/or principal may affect the values of those securities.
Debt Securities Risk . The values of debt securities may increase or decrease as a result of the following: market fluctuations, increases in interest rates, actual or perceived inability or unwillingness of issuers, guarantors or liquidity providers to make scheduled principal or interest payments or illiquidity in debt securities markets; the risk of low rates of return due to reinvestment of securities during periods of falling interest rates or repayment by issuers with higher coupon or interest rates; and/or the risk of low income due to falling interest rates. To the extent that interest rates rise, certain underlying obligations may be paid off substantially slower than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. A rising interest rate environment may cause the value of the Funds fixed income securities to decrease, an adverse impact on the liquidity of the Funds fixed income securities, and increased volatility of the fixed income markets. If the principal on a debt obligation is prepaid before expected, the prepayments of principal may have to be reinvested in obligations paying interest at lower rates. During periods of falling interest rates, the income received by the Fund may decline. Changes in interest rates will likely have a greater effect on the values of debt securities of longer durations. Returns on investments in debt securities could trail the returns on other investment options, including investments in equity securities.
Extension Risk. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of slower-than-expected principal payments. This may increase the period of time during which an investment earns a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and reduce the value of the security. Extension risk may be heightened during periods of adverse economic conditions generally, as payment rates decline due to higher unemployment levels and other factors.
Financial Institutions Risk . Some instruments are issued or guaranteed by financial institutions, such as banks and brokers, or are collateralized by securities issued or guaranteed by financial institutions. Changes in the creditworthiness of any of these institutions may adversely affect the values of instruments of issuers in financial industries. Financial institutions may be particularly sensitive to certain economic factors such as interest rate changes, adverse developments in the real estate market, fiscal and monetary policy and general economic cycles. Adverse developments in banking and other financial industries may cause the Fund to underperform relative to other funds that invest more broadly across different industries or have a smaller exposure to financial institutions. Changes in governmental regulation and oversight of financial institutions may have an adverse effect on the financial condition or the earnings or operations of a financial institution and on the types and amounts of businesses in which a financial institution may engage. An investor may be delayed or prevented from exercising certain remedies against a financial institution. The amount of the Funds assets that may be invested in any financial institution, or financial institutions generally, may be limited by applicable law.
Income Risk. The Funds income may decline due to falling interest rates or other factors. Issuers of securities held by the Fund may call or redeem the securities during periods of falling interest rates, and the Fund would likely be required to reinvest in securities paying lower interest rates. If an obligation held by the Fund is prepaid, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayment in other obligations paying income at lower rates. A reduction in the income earned by the Fund may limit the Funds ability to achieve its objective.
Interest Rate Risk . Interest rate risk is the risk that the securities held by the Fund will decline in value because of increases in market interest rates. Debt securities with longer durations tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates, usually making them more volatile than debt securities with shorter durations. For example, the value of a security with a duration of five years would be expected to decrease by 5% for every 1% increase in interest rates. Falling interest rates also create the potential for a decline in the Funds income and yield. Interest-only and principal-only securities are especially sensitive to interest rate changes, which can affect not only their prices but can also change the income flows and repayment assumptions about those investments. Variable and
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floating rate securities also generally increase or decrease in value in response to changes in interest rates, although generally to a lesser degree than fixed-rate securities. A substantial increase in interest rates may also have an adverse impact on the liquidity of a security, especially those with longer durations. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. Changes in governmental policy, including changes in central bank monetary policy, could cause interest rates to rise rapidly, or cause investors to expect a rapid rise in interest rates. This could lead to heightened levels of interest rate, volatility and liquidity risks for the fixed income markets generally and could have a substantial and immediate effect on the values of the Funds investments.
Large Shareholder Risk . To the extent a large proportion of the interests of the Portfolio are highly concentrated or held by a small number of investors (or a single investor), including funds or accounts over which the Adviser has investment discretion, the Portfolio is subject to the risk that these investors will purchase or redeem Portfolio interests in large amounts rapidly or unexpectedly, including as a result of an asset allocation decision made by the Adviser. These transactions could adversely affect the ability of the Portfolio to conduct its investment program. For example, they could require the Portfolio to sell portfolio securities or purchase portfolio securities unexpectedly and incur substantial transaction costs and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and/or gains to investors, or the Portfolio may be required to sell its more liquid portfolio investments to meet a large redemption, in which case the Portfolios remaining assets may be less liquid, more volatile, and more difficult to price. The Portfolio may hold a relatively large proportion of its assets in cash in anticipation of large redemptions, diluting its investment returns.
Liquidity Risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Fund may not be able to dispose of securities or close out derivatives transactions readily at a favorable time or prices (or at all) or at prices approximating those at which the Fund currently values them. For example, certain investments may be subject to restrictions on resale, may trade in the over-the-counter market or in limited volume, or may not have an active trading market. Illiquid securities may trade at a discount from comparable, more liquid investments and may be subject to wide fluctuations in market value. It may be difficult for the Fund to value illiquid securities accurately. The market for certain investments may become illiquid under adverse market or economic conditions independent of any specific adverse changes in the conditions of a particular issuer. Disposal of illiquid securities may entail registration expenses and other transaction costs that are higher than those for liquid securities. The Fund may seek to borrow money to meet its obligations (including among other things redemption obligations) if it is unable to dispose of illiquid investments, resulting in borrowing expenses and possible leveraging of the Fund. In some cases, due to unanticipated levels of illiquidity the Fund may choose to meet its redemption obligations wholly or in part by distributions of assets in-kind.
Low Short-Term Interest Rate Risk . At the date of this Prospectus, short-term interest rates are at historically low levels, and so the Funds yield is very low. It is possible that the Fund will generate an insufficient amount of income to pay its expenses, and that it will not be able to pay a daily dividend and may have a negative yield (i.e., it may lose money on an operating basis). It is possible that the Fund will maintain a substantial portion of its assets in cash, on which it would earn little, if any, income.
Market Disruption and Geopolitical Risk. The Fund is subject to the risk that geopolitical events will disrupt securities markets and adversely affect global economies and markets. War, terrorism, and related geopolitical events have led, and in the future may lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on U.S. and world economies and markets generally. Likewise, natural and environmental disasters and systemic market dislocations may be highly disruptive to economies and markets. Those events as well as other changes in foreign and domestic economic and political conditions also could adversely affect individual issuers or related groups of issuers, securities markets, interest rates, credit ratings, inflation, investor sentiment, and other factors affecting the value of the Funds investments. Given the increasing interdependence among global economies and markets, conditions in one country, market, or region might adversely affect markets, issuers, and/or foreign exchange rates in other countries, including the U.S. Any partial or complete dissolution of the European Monetary Union, or any increased uncertainty as to its status, could have significant adverse effects on currency and financial markets, and on the values of the Funds investments. Securities and financial markets may be susceptible to market manipulation or other fraudulent trade practices, which could disrupt the orderly functioning of these markets or adversely affect the values of investments traded in these markets, including investments held by the Fund. To the extent the Fund has focused its investments in the market or index of a particular region, adverse geopolitical and other events could have a disproportionate impact on the Fund.
Market Risk . Market prices of investments held by the Fund will go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably. The Funds investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities markets. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors including, but not limited to, economic growth or recession, changes in interest rates, changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness of issuers and general market liquidity. Even if general economic conditions do not change, the value of an investment in the Fund
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could decline if the particular industries, sectors or companies in which the Fund invests do not perform well or are adversely affected by events. Further, legal, political, regulatory and tax changes also may cause fluctuations in markets and securities prices.
Market Volatility; Government Intervention Risk. Market dislocations and other external events, such as the failures or near failures of significant financial institutions, dislocations in investment or currency markets, corporate or governmental defaults or credit downgrades, or poor collateral performance, may subject the Fund to significant risk of substantial volatility and loss. Governmental and regulatory authorities have taken, and may in the future take, actions to provide or arrange credit supports to financial institutions whose operations have been compromised by credit market dislocations and to restore liquidity and stability to financial systems in their jurisdictions; the implementation of such governmental interventions and their impact on both the markets generally and the Funds investment program in particular can be uncertain. In recent periods, governmental and non-governmental issuers have defaulted on, or have been forced to restructure, their debts, and many other issuers have faced difficulties obtaining credit. These market conditions may continue, worsen or spread, including, without limitation, in Europe or Asia. Defaults or restructurings by governments or others of their debts could have substantial adverse effects on economies, financial markets, and asset valuations around the world. In recent periods, financial regulators, including the U.S. Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank, have taken steps to maintain historically low interest rates, such as by purchasing bonds. Some governmental authorities have taken steps to devalue their currencies substantially or have taken other steps to counter actual or anticipated market or other developments. Steps by those regulators to implement, or to curtail or taper, such activities could have substantial negative effects on financial markets. The withdrawal of support, failure of efforts in response to a financial crisis, or investor perception that these efforts are not succeeding could negatively affect financial markets generally as well as the values and liquidity of certain securities.
Master/Feeder Structure Risk. The Fund pursues its objective by investing substantially all of its assets in another pooled investment vehicle (a master fund or Portfolio). The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the ability of the master fund to meet its investment objective. The ability of the Fund to meet its objective may be adversely affected by the purchase and redemption activities of other investors in the master fund. The ability of the Fund to meet redemption requests will depend on its ability to redeem its interest in the master fund. The Adviser or an affiliate serves as investment adviser to the master fund, leading to potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates will receive fees based on the amount of assets invested in the master fund. Investment by the Fund in the master fund may be beneficial in the management of the master fund, by helping to achieve economies of scale or enhancing cash flows. Due to this and other factors, the Adviser may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates in lieu of investments by the Fund directly in portfolio securities, or may have an incentive to invest in such master fund over a master fund sponsored or managed by others. Similarly, the Adviser may have an incentive to delay or decide against the sale of interests held by the Fund in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. It is possible that other clients of the Adviser or its affiliates will purchase or sell interests in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates at prices and at times more favorable than those at which the Fund does so. The Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the expenses incurred by the master fund.
Money Market Fund Regulatory Risk . In July 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted regulatory changes that will affect the structure and operation of money market funds. The revised regulations impose new liquidity requirements on money market funds, permit (and in some cases require) money market funds to impose liquidity fees on redemptions, and permit money market funds to impose gates restricting redemptions from the funds. Institutional money market funds will be required to have a floating NAV. (U.S. government money market funds are exempt from a number of the new regulations.) There are a number of other changes under the revised regulations that relate to diversification, disclosure, reporting and stress testing requirements. These changes and other proposed amendments to the regulations governing money market funds could significantly affect the money market fund industry generally.
Money Market Risk . An investment in a money market fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Although a money market fund generally seeks to preserve the value of its shares at $1.00 per share, there can be no assurance that it will do so, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund. A major or unexpected increase in interest rates or a decline in the credit quality of an issuer or entity providing credit support, an inactive trading market for money market instruments, or adverse market, economic, industry, political, regulatory, geopolitical, and other conditions could cause a money market funds share price to fall below $1.00. It is possible that a money market fund will issue and redeem shares at $1.00 per share at times when the fair value of the money market funds portfolio per share is more or less than $1.00. Recent changes in the regulation of money market funds may affect the operations and structures of such funds. A money market fund may be permitted or required to impose redemption fees or to impose limitations on redemptions during periods of high illiquidity in the markets for the investments held by it. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will not maintain a constant net asset value per share. Beginning at that time, the value of the Funds shares will be calculated to four decimal places and will vary reflecting the value of the portfolio of investments held by the Fund. It is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund. None of
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State Street Corporation, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Global Advisors (SSGA), SSGA FM or their affiliates (State Street Entities) guarantee the value of an investment in a money market fund at $1.00 per share. Investors should have no expectation of capital support to a money market fund from State Street Entities.
Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk. Investments in mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to the risk of significant credit downgrades, illiquidity, and defaults to a greater extent than many other types of fixed income investments. Mortgage-related securities represent a participation in, or are secured by, mortgage loans. Other asset-backed securities are typically structured like mortgage-related securities, but instead of mortgage loans or interests in mortgage loans, the underlying assets may include, for example, items such as motor vehicle installment sales or installment loan contracts, leases on various types of real and personal property, and receivables from credit card agreements. During periods of falling interest rates, mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities, which typically provide the issuer with the right to prepay the security prior to maturity, may be prepaid, which may result in the Fund having to reinvest the proceeds in other investments at lower interest rates. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may extend because of slower-than expected principal payments. This may lock in a below market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and interest rate sensitivity, and reduce the value of the security. As a result, mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may have less potential for capital appreciation during periods of declining interest rates than other debt securities of comparable maturities, although they may have a similar risk of decline in market values during periods of rising interest rates. Prepayment rates are difficult to predict and the potential impact of prepayments on the value of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security depends on the terms of the instrument and can result in significant volatility. The price of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security also depends on the credit quality and adequacy of the underlying assets or collateral. Defaults on the underlying assets, if any, may impair the value of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security. For some asset-backed securities in which the Fund invests, such as those backed by credit card receivables, the underlying cash flows may not be supported by a security interest in a related asset. Moreover, the values of mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may be substantially dependent on the servicing of the underlying asset pools, and are therefore subject to risks associated with the negligence or malfeasance by their servicers and to the credit risk of their servicers. In certain situations, the mishandling of related documentation may also affect the rights of securities holders in and to the underlying collateral. There may be legal and practical limitations on the enforceability of any security interest granted with respect to underlying assets, or the value of the underlying assets, if any, may be insufficient if the issuer defaults.
In a forward roll transaction, the Fund will sell a mortgage-related security to a bank or other permitted entity and simultaneously agree to purchase a similar security from the institution at a later date at an agreed upon price. The mortgage securities that are purchased will bear the same interest rate as those sold, but generally will be collateralized by different pools of mortgages with different prepayment histories than those sold. The values of such transactions will be affected by many of the same factors that affect the values of mortgage-related securities generally. In addition, forward roll transactions may have the effect of creating investment leverage in the Fund.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk . Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers (including depositary receipts) entail risks not typically associated with investing in securities of U.S. issuers. Similar risks may apply to securities traded on a U.S. securities exchange that are issued by entities with significant exposure to non-U.S. countries. In certain countries, legal remedies available to investors may be more limited than those available with regard to U.S. investments. Income and gains with respect to investments in certain countries may be subject to withholding and other taxes. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. entity than about a U.S. entity, and many non-U.S. entities are not subject to accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards, regulatory framework and practices comparable to those in the United States. The securities of some non-U.S. entities are less liquid and at times more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. entities, and could become subject to sanctions or embargoes that adversely affect the Funds investment. Non-U.S. transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions and custody costs may be higher than in the U.S. In addition, there may be a possibility of nationalization or expropriation of assets, imposition of currency exchange controls, confiscatory taxation, and diplomatic developments that could adversely affect the values of the Funds investments in certain non-U.S. countries. Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers also are subject to foreign political and economic risk not associated with U.S. investments, meaning that political events (civil unrest, national elections, changes in political conditions and foreign relations, imposition of exchange controls and repatriation restrictions), social and economic events (labor strikes, rising inflation) and natural disasters occurring in a country where the Fund invests could cause the Funds investments in that country to experience gains or losses.
Rapid Changes in Interest Rates . The values of most instruments held by the Fund are adversely affected by changes in interest rates generally, especially increases in interest rates. Rapid changes in interest rates may cause significant requests to redeem Fund Shares, and possibly cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities at a loss to satisfy those requests. Significant losses would negatively affect the Funds returns and could impair the Funds ability to maintain a stable share price of $1.00.
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Reinvestment Risk. Income from the Funds portfolio may decline when the Fund invests the proceeds from investment income, sales of portfolio securities or matured, traded or called debt obligations. For instance, during periods of declining interest rates, an issuer of debt obligations may exercise an option to redeem securities prior to maturity, forcing the Fund to reinvest the proceeds in lower-yielding securities. A decline in income received by the Fund from its investments is likely to have a negative effect on the yield and total return of the Fund Shares.
Repurchase Agreement Risk . A repurchase agreement is an agreement to buy a security from a seller at one price and a simultaneous agreement to sell it back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price, typically representing the purchase price plus interest. Repurchase agreements may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. The Funds investment return on such transactions will depend on the counterpartys willingness and ability to perform its obligations under a repurchase agreement. If the Funds counterparty should default on its obligations and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the collateral, or if the value of the collateral is insufficient, the Fund may realize a loss.
Risk of Investment in Other Pools . If the Fund invests in another pooled investment vehicle, it is exposed to the risk that the other pool will not perform as expected. The Fund is exposed indirectly to all of the risks applicable to an investment in such other pool. In addition, lack of liquidity in the underlying pool could result in its value being more volatile than the underlying portfolio of securities, and may limit the ability of the Fund to sell or redeem its interest in the pool at a time or at a price it might consider desirable. The investment policies and limitations of the other pool may not be the same as those of the Fund; as a result, the Fund may be subject to additional or different risks, or may achieve a reduced investment return, as a result of its investment in another pool. If a pool is an exchange-traded fund or other product traded on a securities exchange or otherwise actively traded, its shares may trade at a premium or discount to their NAV, an effect that might be more pronounced in less liquid markets. The Fund bears its proportionate share of the fees and expenses of any pool in which it invests. The Adviser or an affiliate may serve as investment adviser to a pool in which the Fund may invest, leading to potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates may receive fees based on the amount of assets invested in the pool. Investment by the Fund in the pool may be beneficial to the Adviser or an affiliate in the management of the pool, by helping to achieve economies of scale or enhancing cash flows. Due to this and other factors, the Adviser may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates in lieu of investments by the Fund directly in portfolio securities, or may have an incentive to invest in the pool over a pool sponsored or managed by others. Similarly, the Adviser may have an incentive to delay or decide against the sale of interests held by the Fund in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. It is possible that other clients of the Adviser or its affiliates will purchase or sell interests in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates at prices and at times more favorable than those at which the Fund does so.
Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper and Rule 144A Securities Risk . The Fund may invest in commercial paper issued in reliance on the private placement exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act). This commercial paper is commonly called Section 4(a)(2) paper. The Fund may also invest in securities that may be offered and sold only to qualified institutional buyers under Rule 144A of the 1933 Act (Rule 144A securities).
Section 4(a)(2) paper is sold to institutional investors who must agree to purchase the paper for investment and not with a view to public distribution. Any resale by the purchaser must be in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. Section 4(a)(2) paper normally is resold to other institutional investors like the Fund through or with the assistance of the issuer or investment dealers that make a market in Section 4(a)(2) paper. As a result it suffers from liquidity risk, the risk that the securities may be difficult to value because of the absence of an active market and the risk that it may be sold only after considerable expense and delay, if at all. Rule 144A securities generally must be sold only to other qualified institutional buyers.
Section 4(a)(2) paper and Rule 144A securities will not be considered illiquid for purposes of the Funds limitation on illiquid securities if the Adviser (pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board) determines that a liquid trading market exists for the securities in question. There can be no assurance that a liquid trading market will exist at any time for any particular Section 4(a)(2) paper or Rule 144A securities. The Statement of Additional Information (SAI) addresses the Funds limitation on illiquid securities.
Settlement Risk . Markets in different countries have different clearance and settlement procedures and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of transactions. Delays in settlement may increase credit risk to the Fund, limit the ability of the Fund to reinvest the proceeds of a sale of securities, hinder the ability of the Fund to lend its portfolio securities, and potentially subject the Fund to penalties for its failure to deliver to on-purchasers of securities whose delivery to the Fund was delayed. Delays in the settlement of securities purchased by the Fund may limit the ability of the Fund to sell those securities at times and prices it considers desirable, and may subject the Fund to losses and costs due to its own inability to settle with subsequent purchasers of the securities from it. The Fund may be required to borrow monies it had otherwise expected to receive in connection with the settlement of securities sold by it, in order to meet its obligations to others.
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Stable Share Price Risk . If the market value of one or more of the Funds investments changes substantially, the Fund may not be able to maintain a stable share price of $1.00. This risk typically is higher during periods of rapidly changing interest rates or when issuer credit quality generally is falling, and is made worse when the Fund experiences significant redemption requests. This risk applies for the Fund through October 11, 2016.
U.S. Government Securities Risk . U.S. Government securities, such as Treasury bills, notes and bonds and mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae), are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States; others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agencys obligations; and still others are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency, instrumentality, or enterprise. Although U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) may be chartered or sponsored by Congress, they are not funded by Congressional appropriations, and their securities are not issued by the U.S. Treasury nor supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. There is no assurance that the U.S. Government would provide financial support to its agencies and instrumentalities if not required to do so. In addition, certain governmental entities have been subject to regulatory scrutiny regarding their accounting policies and practices and other concerns that may result in legislation, changes in regulatory oversight and/or other consequences that could adversely affect the credit quality, availability, or investment character of securities issued by these entities. The value and liquidity of U.S. Government securities may be affected adversely by changes in the ratings of those securities. Securities issued by the U.S. Treasury historically have been considered to present minimal credit risk. The downgrade in the long-term U.S. credit rating by at least one major rating agency has introduced greater uncertainty about the ability of the U.S. to repay its obligations. A further credit rating downgrade or a U.S. credit default could decrease the value and increase the volatility of the Funds investments.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities . Variable or floating rate securities are debt securities with variable or floating interest rates payments. Variable or floating rate securities bear rates of interest that are adjusted periodically according to formulae intended generally to reflect market rates of interest and allow the Fund to participate (determined in accordance with the terms of the securities) in increases in interest rates through upward adjustments of the coupon rates on the securities. However, during periods of increasing interest rates, changes in the coupon rates may lag behind the changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in coupon rates. Alternatively, during periods of declining interest rates, the coupon rates on such securities will typically readjust downward resulting in a lower yield. The Fund may also invest in variable or floating rate equity securities, whose dividend payments vary based on changes in market rates of interest or other factors.
Zero-Coupon Bond Risk . Zero-coupon bonds are debt obligations that are generally issued at a discount and payable in full at maturity, and that do not provide for current payments of interest prior to maturity. Zero-coupon bonds usually trade at a deep discount from their face or par values and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current distributions of interest. When interest rates rise, the values of zero-coupon bonds fall more rapidly than securities paying interest on a current basis, because the Fund is unable to reinvest interest payments at the higher rates.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT NON-PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISKS
The investments described below reflect the Funds and the Portfolios current practices. In addition to the principal risks described above, other risks are described in some of the descriptions of the investments below:
Conflicts of Interest Risk. An investment in the Fund may be subject to a number of actual or potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates may provide services to the Fund, such as securities lending agency services, custodial, administrative, bookkeeping, and accounting services, transfer agency and shareholder servicing, securities brokerage services, and other services for which the Fund would compensate the Adviser and/or such affiliates. The Fund may invest in other pooled investment vehicles sponsored, managed, or otherwise affiliated with the Adviser. There is no assurance that the rates at which the Fund pays fees or expenses to the Adviser or its affiliates, or the terms on which it enters into transactions with the Adviser or its affiliates will be the most favorable available in the market generally or as favorable as the rates the Adviser makes available to other clients. Because of its financial interest, the Adviser may have an incentive to enter into transactions or arrangements on behalf of the Fund with itself or its affiliates in circumstances where it might not have done so in the absence of that interest.
The Adviser and its affiliates serve as investment adviser to other clients and may make investment decisions that may be different from those that will be made by the Adviser on behalf of the Fund. For example, the Adviser may provide asset allocation advice to some clients that may include a recommendation to invest in or redeem from particular issuers while not providing that same
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recommendation to all clients invested in the same or similar issuers. The Adviser may (subject to applicable law) be simultaneously seeking to purchase (or sell) investments for the Fund and to sell (or purchase) the same investment for accounts, funds, or structured products for which it serves as asset manager, or for other clients or affiliates. The Adviser and its affiliates may invest for clients in various securities that are senior, pari passu or junior to, or have interests different from or adverse to, the securities that are owned by the Fund. The Adviser or its affiliates, in connection with its other business activities, may acquire material non-public confidential information that may restrict the Adviser from purchasing securities or selling securities for itself or its clients (including the Fund) or otherwise using such information for the benefit of its clients or itself.
The foregoing does not purport to be a comprehensive list or complete explanation of all potential conflicts of interests which may affect the Fund. The Fund may encounter circumstances, or enter into transactions, in which conflicts of interest that are not listed or discussed above may arise.
Cybersecurity Risk . With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet and the dependence on computer systems to perform business and operational functions, funds (such as the Fund) 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, the Fund, the Portfolio, the Adviser, or a custodian, transfer agent, or other affiliated or third-party service provider may adversely affect the Fund or its shareholders. For instance, cyber-attacks or technical malfunctions may interfere with the processing of shareholder or other transactions, affect the Funds ability to calculate its NAV, cause the release of private shareholder information or confidential Fund information, 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 or technical malfunctions 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 Fund may also incur substantial costs for cybersecurity risk management in order to prevent cyber incidents in the future. The Fund and its 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 Fund relies on third-party service providers for many of its 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 cybersecurity risks or technical malfunctions also are present for issuers of securities in which the Fund invests, which could result in material adverse consequences for such issuers, and may cause the Funds investment in such securities to lose value.
The Funds portfolio holdings disclosure policy is described in the SAI.
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The Fund is a separate, diversified series of the State Street Institutional Investment Trust (the Trust), which is an open-end management investment company organized as a business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The Fund invests as part of a master/feeder structure. The Fund currently seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Portfolio, a separate mutual fund, that has substantially identical investment objective, investment policies, and risks as the Fund. All discussions about the Funds investment objective, policies and risks should be understood to refer also to the investment objectives, policies and risks of the Portfolio.
The Fund can withdraw its investment in the Portfolio if, at any time, the Funds Board of Trustees determines that it would be in the best interests of the Funds shareholders, or if the investment objectives of the Portfolio changed so that they were inconsistent with the objectives of the Fund. If the Fund withdraws its investment from the Portfolio, the Fund may invest all of its assets in another mutual fund that has the same investment objective as the Fund, the Adviser may directly manage the Funds assets, or the Board may take such other action it deems appropriate and in the best interests of shareholders of the Fund, which may include liquidation of the Fund.
Investment Adviser
SSGA FM serves as the investment adviser to the Fund and Portfolio and, subject to the supervision of the Board, is responsible for the investment management of the Fund. The Adviser provides an investment management program for the Fund and manages the investment of the Funds assets. The Adviser is a wholly-owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation and is registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The Adviser and certain other affiliates of State Street Corporation make up SSGA. SSGA is one of the worlds largest institutional money managers and the investment management arm of State Street Corporation. As of June 30, 2016, the Adviser managed approximately $398.23 billion in assets and SSGA managed approximately $2.30 trillion in assets. The Advisers principal business address is State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.
The Fund has entered into an investment advisory agreement with the Adviser pursuant to which the Adviser will manage the Funds assets directly, for compensation paid at an annual rate of 0.05% of the Funds average daily net assets, in the event that the Fund were to cease investing substantially all of its assets in its Portfolio or another investment company with essentially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund. The Adviser does not receive any management fees from the Fund under that agreement so long as the Fund continues to invest substantially all of its assets in the Portfolio or in another investment company with essentially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund. The Adviser places all orders for purchases and sales of the Portfolios investments. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the effective management fee paid, reflecting certain fee waivers and expense reimbursements of the Adviser, was 0.05% for the Portfolio.
In addition to any contractual expense limitation for the Fund which is described in the Fund Summary, the Adviser also may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses for the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid negative yield which may vary from time to time and from Fund to Fund in the Advisers sole discretion. Under an agreement with the Adviser relating to the Voluntary Reduction, the Fund and the Portfolio have agreed to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction beginning on October 1, 2012, subject to certain limitations. The Fund will not be obligated to reimburse the Adviser:
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more than three years after the end of the fiscal year for the Fund in which the Adviser provided a Voluntary Reduction; |
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in respect of any business day for which the net annualized one-day yield is less than 0.00%; |
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to the extent that the amount of the reimbursement to the Adviser on any day exceeds fifty percent of the yield (net of all expenses, exclusive of the reimbursement) of the Fund on that day; |
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to the extent that the amount of such reimbursement would cause the Funds net yield to fall below the Funds minimum net yield as determined by the Adviser in its sole discretion; or |
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in respect of any fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements that are necessary to maintain the Funds contractual total expense limit which is effective at the time of such fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. |
A reimbursement to the Adviser would increase fund expenses and negatively impact the Funds future yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. Reimbursement payments by the Fund to the Adviser in connection with the Voluntary Reduction are considered extraordinary
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expenses and are not subject to any contractual expense limitation agreement in effect for the Fund at the time of such payment. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund.
A discussion regarding the Boards consideration of the Funds Investment Advisory Agreement is provided in the Trusts Semi-Annual Report to Shareholders for the period ended June 30, 2015.
The Administrator, Sub-Administrator and Custodian.
The Adviser serves as administrator of the Fund. The amount of the fee paid to the Adviser for administrative services may vary by share class. The Fund currently pays the Adviser an administrative fee at the annual rate of 0.03% in respect of the class of shares in this Prospectus. State Street Bank and Trust Company (State Street), a subsidiary of State Street Corporation, serves as the sub-administrator for the Fund for a fee that is paid by the Adviser. State Street also serves as custodian of the Fund for a separate fee that is paid by the Fund. SSGA FM serves as administrator of the Portfolio and State Street serves as sub-administrator and custodian of the Portfolio.
The Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent.
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. is the transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent (the Transfer Agent).
The Distributor.
State Street Global Markets, LLC serves as the Funds distributor (SSGM or the Distributor) pursuant to the Distribution Agreement between SSGM and the Trust.
Additional Information.
The Trustees of the Trust oversee generally the operations of the Fund and the Trust. The Trust enters into contractual arrangements with various parties, including among others the Funds investment adviser, custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, who provide services to the Fund. Shareholders are not parties to any such contractual arrangements or intended beneficiaries of those contractual arrangements, and those contractual arrangements are not intended to create in any shareholder any right to enforce them directly against the service providers or to seek any remedy under them directly against the service providers.
This Prospectus provides information concerning the Trust and the Fund that you should consider in determining whether to purchase shares of the Fund. Neither this Prospectus, nor the related SAI, is intended, or should be read, to be or to give rise to an agreement or contract between the Trust or the Fund and any investor, or to give rise to any rights in any shareholder or other person other than any rights under federal or state law that may not be waived.
Determination of Net Asset Value.
Until October 11, 2016, the ILR Fund determines its NAV per share once each business day at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) except for days when the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) closes earlier than its regular closing time, in which event the Fund will determine its NAV at the earlier closing time (the time when the Fund determines its NAV per share is referred to herein as the Valuation Time). Until October 11, 2016, the Fund seeks to maintain a $1.00 per share NAV and, accordingly, uses the amortized cost valuation method, in compliance with the risk limiting conditions of Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act, to value its portfolio instruments. The amortized cost valuation method initially prices an instrument at its cost and thereafter assumes a constant amortization to maturity of any discount or premium, regardless of the impact of fluctuating interest rates on the market value of the instrument.
Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will determine its NAV per share three times each business day at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET except for days when the NYSEs regular closing is prior to 3 p.m. ET, in which event the Fund will determine its final NAV for the day at the earlier closing time. Also effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will calculate its NAV to four decimal places.
Effective October 12, 2016, the NAV of each class of the Funds shares is calculated by dividing the value of the assets of the Fund attributable to that class less the liabilities of the Fund attributable to that class by the number of shares in the class outstanding. The Fund values each security or other investment pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board of Trustees. Securities or other investments may be valued at fair value, as determined in good faith and pursuant to procedures approved by the Portfolios Board of Trustees, under certain limited circumstances. For example, fair value pricing may be used when market quotations are not readily available or reliable, such as when (i) trading for a security is restricted; or (ii) a significant event, as determined by the Adviser, that may affect the value of one or more securities or other investments held by the Fund occurs after the close of a related exchange but before the determination of the Funds NAV. Attempts to determine the fair value of securities or other investments introduce an element of subjectivity to the pricing of securities or other investments. As a result, the price of a security or other investment
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determined through fair valuation techniques may differ from the price quoted or published by other sources and may not accurately reflect the price a Fund would have received had it sold the investment. To the extent that the Fund invests in the shares of other registered open-end investment companies that are not traded on an exchange (mutual funds), such shares are valued at their published net asset values per share as reported by the funds. The prospectuses of these funds explain the circumstances under which the funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.
A business day is one on which the NYSE is open for regular trading. The Federal Reserve is closed on certain holidays on which the NYSE is open. These holidays are Columbus Day and Veterans Day. On these holidays, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because Federal Funds wiring does not occur on days when the Federal Reserve is closed. The Fund reserve the right to accept orders to purchase or redeem shares, or to continue to accept such orders following the close of the NYSE, on any day that is not a business day or any day on which the NYSE closes early, provided the Federal Reserve remains open. As noted in this Prospectus, the Fund may invest in securities listed on foreign exchanges, or otherwise traded in a foreign market, and those securities may trade on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares. Consequently, the NAV of the Funds shares may change on days when shareholders are not able to purchase or redeem the Funds shares. The Fund also may establish special hours on those days to determine the Funds NAV. In the event that the Fund invokes the right to accept orders to purchase or redeem shares on any day that is not a business day or adopt special hours of operation, the Fund will post advance notice of these events at www.ssga.com/cash.
If you hold shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary, your intermediary may offer additional services and account features that are not described in this Prospectus. Please contact your intermediary directly for an explanation of these services.
Investing in State Street Institutional Investment Trust Shares.
Mutual funds advised by SSGA FM (the State Street Funds) and their service providers have a legal obligation to collect from you certain personal information about you at the time you open an account in order to verify your identity and the source of your payment. If you do not provide this information, you may not be able to open an account with the State Street Funds. If the State Street Funds believe that they have uncovered unlawful activity, the State Street Funds and their service providers may close your account and take any action they deem reasonable or required by law. The State Street Funds reserve the right to reject any purchase order.
This section of the Prospectus explains the basics of doing business with the State Street Funds. Carefully read each topic. The policies set forth below regarding the purchase, redemption and exchange of State Street Fund shares are in addition to the Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares section contained in the Fund Summary portion of this Prospectus. The State Street Funds reserve the right to change the following policies, without notice to shareholders; except that any modification or termination of the exchange privileges set forth herein will be preceded by 60 days advance notice to shareholders. Please call or check online for current information. Requests for transactions in the State Street Funds will be processed when they are received in good order. Good order means that the request is in an accurate and complete form, and all applicable documents have been received in such accurate and complete form (including typically, a signed application and medallion-guaranteed documents), and, for a purchase request, the check or wired funds have cleared.
Purchasing Shares
Investors pay no sales load to invest in the shares of the Fund. The price for Fund Shares is the NAV per share. Purchase requests received by the Fund in good order (a purchase request is in good order if it meets the requirements implemented from time to time by the Transfer Agent or authorized agent of the Fund, and for new accounts includes submission of a completed and signed application and all documentation necessary to open an account) on a business day will, if payment is received by FedWire, be priced at the NAV next determined after the order is accepted by the Fund. Payments received by FedWire prior to the last Valuation time (effective October 12, 2016, generally, 3:00 p.m. ET, unless the Fund closes earlier), will earn dividend accrual for that purchase. All purchases that are made by check will begin earning dividends the following business day after the day the order is accepted. (If you purchase shares by check, your order will not be in good form until the Transfer Agent receives federal funds for the check.) All purchase orders are subject to acceptance by the Fund. The Fund intends to be as fully invested as is practicable; therefore, investments must be made in Federal Funds ( i.e ., monies credited to the account of the Funds custodian bank by a Federal Reserve Bank).
The minimum initial investment in Class M shares of the Fund is $750,000,000, although the Adviser may waive the minimum in its discretion. Holdings of related customer accounts may be aggregated for purposes of determining the minimum investment amount.
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Related customer accounts may include but are not limited to accounts held by the same investment or retirement plan, financial institution, broker, dealer or intermediary. The Fund and the Adviser reserve the right to increase or decrease the minimum amount required to open or maintain an account. There is no minimum subsequent investment, except in relation to maintaining certain minimum account balances (See Redeeming Shares below). The Fund requires prior notification of subsequent investments in excess of $50 million. The Fund reserves the right to cease accepting investments at any time or to reject any investment order.
Until October 11, 2016, the Fund may limit the amount of a purchase order received after 3:00 p.m. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will determine its NAV at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET. The 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. NAV calculation times are intended to facilitate same day settlement.
How to Purchase Shares
By Mail:
An initial investment in the Fund must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Institutional Account Application Form, sent to:
State Street Funds P.O. Box 8048 Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048 |
By Overnight:
State Street Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809 |
By Telephone/Fax:
An initial investment in the Fund must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Institutional Account Application Form, faxed to (816) 218-0400. Call the Fund at (866) 392-0869 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. ET and 5:00 p.m. ET to:
Ø confirm receipt of the faxed Institutional Account Application Form (initial purchases only), Ø request your new account number (initial purchases only), Ø confirm the amount being wired and wiring bank, and Ø receive a confirmation number for your purchase order (your trade is not effective until you have received a confirmation number from the Fund).
For your initial investment, send the original, signed Institutional Account Application Form to the address above. |
Wire Instructions:
Instruct your bank to transfer money by Federal Funds wire to:
State Street Bank and Trust Company 1 Iron Street Boston, MA 02110
ABA# 011000028 DDA# 9905-801-8 State Street Institutional Investment Trust State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund Class Name Account Number Account Registration
On Columbus Day and Veterans Day, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because the Federal Funds wiring does not occur on those days. Payment for Fund Shares must be in Federal Funds (or converted to Federal Funds by the Transfer Agent) by the close of the Federal Reserve.
You will not be able to redeem shares from the account until the original Application has been received. The Fund and the Funds agents are not responsible for transfer errors by the sending or receiving bank and will not be liable for any loss incurred due to a wire transfer not having been received. |
18
Redeeming Shares
An investor may redeem all or any portion of its investment. Redemption orders are processed at the NAV next determined after the Fund receives a redemption order in good form. If the Fund receives a redemption order in good form prior to its Valuation Time on a business day, shares are redeemed and the Fund typically sends payment for redeemed shares on that day, but no later than next business day (unless redemption proceed are sent by check or ACH). If a full redemption order is requested, no dividends will accrue with respect to shares on the day the redemption proceeds are sent. If a redemption order is placed after the last Valuation Time (effective October 12, 2016, generally, 3:00 p.m. ET, unless the Fund closes earlier) the redemption proceeds for the shares will be sent next business day (and dividends will accrue up to, but not including, the day that redemption proceeds are sent).
Certain special limitations affecting redemptions. The SEC has implemented a number of requirements, including liquidity fees and redemption gates, for money market funds based on the amount of fund assets in weekly liquid assets, which generally includes cash, direct obligations of the U.S. government, certain other U.S. government or agency securities, and securities that will mature or are subject to a demand feature that is exercisable and payable within five business days. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will pass through to its investors any liquidity fee or suspension of redemptions imposed by the Portfolio on the same terms and conditions as imposed by the Portfolio on the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, if the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 30% of its total assets and the Portfolios Board of Trustees determines it is in the best interests of the Portfolio, the Portfolio may immediately impose a liquidity fee of no more than 2% and/or temporarily suspend redemptions for up to 10 business days in any 90 day period. If the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of its total assets at the end of any business day, the Portfolio will impose a liquidity fee of 1% on all redemptions beginning on the next business day, unless the Portfolios Board determines that imposing such a fee would not be in the best interests of the Portfolio or determines that a lower or higher fee (not to exceed 2%) would be in the best interests of the Portfolio, which would remain in effect until weekly liquid assets return to 30% or the Portfolios Board determines that the fee is no longer in the best interests of the Portfolio. All liquidity fees payable by the Fund will be passed through to its investors, would be payable to the Portfolio and could offset any losses realized by the Portfolio when seeking to honor redemption requests. If liquidity fees are imposed or redemptions are suspended by the Portfolio, the Fund will notify shareholders on the Funds website. The Fund expects to treat such liquidity fees paid to the Portfolio as reducing proceeds paid to shareholders in redemption of Fund shares, and not constituting income to the Portfolio. There may be circumstances under which the Fund may impose its own liquidity fees and/or suspend redemptions based on the level of the Funds own weekly liquid assets, in which case the Fund will also provide notice to shareholders.
If the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of its assets on a business day, the Portfolio may cease honoring redemptions and liquidate in the discretion of the Portfolios Board. If the Fund is notified that its Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of the Portfolios assets and the Portfolio has suspended redemptions and intends to liquidate, the Fund may also do so in the discretion of the Funds Board. There may be circumstances under which the Fund may cease honoring redemptions and liquidate in the discretion of its Board based on the level of the Funds own weekly liquid assets. If the Fund ceases honoring redemptions and determines to liquidate, the Fund expects that it would notify shareholders on the Funds website. Distributions to shareholders of liquidation proceeds may occur in one or more disbursements.
The right of any investor to receive payment with respect to any redemption may be suspended or the payment of the redemption proceeds postponed during any period in which the NYSE is closed (other than weekends or holidays) or trading on the NYSE is restricted or, to the extent otherwise permitted by the 1940 Act, if an emergency exists as a result of which disposal by the Fund of securities owned by it is not reasonably practicable or it is not reasonably practicable for the Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets. In addition, the SEC may by order permit suspension of redemptions for the protection of shareholders of the Fund.
A request for a partial redemption by an investor whose account balance is below the minimum amount or a request for partial redemption by an investor that would bring the account below the minimum amount may be treated as a request for a complete redemption of the account. These minimums may be different for investments made through certain financial intermediaries as determined by their policies and may be waived in the Advisers discretion. The Fund reserves the right to modify minimum account requirements at any time with or without prior notice. The Fund also reserves the right to involuntarily redeem an investors account if the investors account balance falls below the applicable minimum amount due to transaction activity.
19
How to Redeem Shares
By Mail: |
Send a signed letter to: State Street Institutional Investment Trust Funds P.O. Box 8048 Boston, MA 02205-8048
The letter should include information necessary to process your request as described below. The Fund may require a medallion guarantee in certain circumstances. See Medallion Guarantees below. |
|
By Overnight: |
State Street Institutional Investment Trust Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809 |
|
By Telephone: | Please call (866) 392-0869 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET. | |
The Fund will need the following information to process your redemption request: Ø name(s) of account owners; Ø account number(s); Ø the name of the Fund; Ø your daytime telephone number; and Ø the dollar amount or number of shares being redeemed. |
On any day that the Fund calculates its NAVs earlier than normal, the Fund reserves the right to adjust the times noted above for purchasing and redeeming shares.
By Intermediary. If you wish to purchase or redeem Fund Shares through a broker, bank or other financial intermediary (Intermediary), please contact that Intermediary directly. Your Financial Intermediary may have different or additional requirements for opening an account and/or for the processing of purchase and redemption orders, or may be closed at times when the Fund is open. Intermediaries may contact the Boston Financial Data Services Group at (877) 332-6207 or email them at nsccresearch@bostonfinancial.com with questions.
Medallion Guarantees. Certain redemption requests must include a medallion guarantee for each registered account owner if any of the following apply:
Ø |
Your account address has changed within the last 10 business days. |
Ø |
Redemption proceeds are being transferred to an account with a different registration. |
Ø |
A wire is being sent to a financial institution other than the one that has been established on your Fund account. |
Ø |
Other unusual situations as determined by the Transfer Agent. |
Until October 11, 2016, all redemption requests regarding shares of the Fund placed after 4:00 p.m. ET may only be placed by telephone or pre-established other means such as a transmission and the Fund reserves the right to postpone payments for redemption requests received after 4:00 p.m. ET until the next business day.
Effective October 12, 2016, same day settlement of redemption proceeds will only be available for redemption requests accepted prior to the Funds last Valuation Time of the day (generally, 3:00 p.m. ET unless the Fund closes earlier).
The Fund reserves the right to waive medallion guarantee requirements, require a medallion guarantee under other circumstances or reject or delay redemption if the medallion guarantee is not in good form. Medallion guarantees may be provided by an eligible financial institution such as a commercial bank, a FINRA member firm such as a stock broker, a savings association or a national securities exchange. A notary public cannot provide a medallion guarantee. The Fund reserves the right to reject a medallion guarantee if it is not provided by a STAMP Medallion guarantor.
About Telephone Transactions. Telephone transactions are convenient but are not free from risk. Neither the Fund nor the Funds agents will be responsible for any losses resulting from unauthorized telephone transactions if reasonable security procedures are followed. In addition, you are responsible for: (i) verifying the accuracy of all data and information transmitted by telephone, (ii) verifying the accuracy of your account statements immediately upon receipt, and (iii) promptly notifying the Fund of any errors or
20
inaccuracies including, without limitation, any errors or inaccuracies relating to shareholder data or information transmitted by telephone. During periods of heavy market activity or other times, it may be difficult to reach the Fund by telephone. If you are unable to reach us by telephone, consider sending written instructions.
The Fund may terminate the receipt of redemption orders by telephone at any time, in which case you may redeem shares by other means.
If you choose to purchase or redeem shares by sending instructions by regular mail, they will not be deemed received in good order until they are released by the post office and redelivered to the Transfer Agents physical location at 30 Dan Road in Canton, MA 02021. There will be a time lag, which may be one or more days, between regular mail receipt at the Boston post office box and redelivery to such physical location in Canton, and the Funds NAV may change over those days. You might consider using express rather than regular mail if you believe the time of receipt of your transaction request to be sensitive.
Excessive Trading. Because the Fund is a money market fund, the Funds Board of Trustees has not adopted policies and procedures with respect to frequent purchases and redemptions of Fund shares by Fund shareholders. Nonetheless, the Fund may take any reasonable action that they deem necessary or appropriate to prevent excessive trading in Fund shares without providing prior notification to the account holder. Such action may include rejecting any purchase, in whole or part, including, without limitation, by a person whose trading activity in Fund shares may be deemed harmful to the Fund. While the Fund attempts to discourage such excessive trading, there can be no guarantee that they will be able to identify investors who are engaging in excessive trading or limit their trading practices. Additionally, frequent trades of small amounts may not be detected. The Fund recognizes that they may not always be able to detect or prevent excessive trading or other activity that may disadvantage the Fund or its shareholders.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
Financial Intermediaries are firms that sell shares of mutual funds, including the Fund, for compensation and/or provide certain administrative and account maintenance services to mutual fund investors. Financial Intermediaries may include, among others, brokers, financial planners or advisers, banks, and insurance companies.
In some cases, a Financial Intermediary may hold its clients Fund Shares in nominee or street name. Shareholder services provided by a Financial Intermediary may (though they will not necessarily) include, among other things: processing and mailing trade confirmations, periodic statements, prospectuses, annual reports, semiannual reports, shareholder notices, and other SEC-required communications; capturing and processing tax data; issuing and mailing dividend checks to shareholders who have selected cash distributions; preparing record date shareholder lists for proxy solicitations; collecting and posting distributions to shareholder accounts; and establishing and maintaining systematic withdrawals and automated investment plans and shareholder account registrations.
The compensation paid by the Distributor or its affiliates to a Financial Intermediary is typically paid continually over time, during the period when the Financial Intermediarys clients hold investments in the Fund. The amount of continuing compensation paid by the Distributor or its affiliates to different Financial Intermediaries for distribution and/or shareholder services varies. The compensation is typically a percentage of the value of the Financial Intermediarys clients investments in the Fund or a per account fee. The variation in compensation may, but will not necessarily, reflect enhanced or additional services provided by the Financial Intermediary.
SSGM and its affiliates (including SSGA FM), at their own expense and out of their own assets, may also provide other compensation to Financial Intermediaries in connection with sales of the Funds shares or the servicing of shareholders or shareholder accounts. Such compensation may include, but is not limited to, financial assistance to Financial Intermediaries in connection with conferences, sales, or training programs for their employees; seminars for the public; advertising or sales campaigns; or other Financial Intermediary-sponsored special events. In some instances, this compensation may be made available only to certain Financial Intermediaries whose representatives have sold or are expected to sell significant amounts of shares. Dealers may not use sales of the Funds shares to qualify for this compensation to the extent prohibited by the laws or rules of any state or any self-regulatory agency, such as the FINRA. If payments to Financial Intermediaries by the distributor or adviser for a particular mutual fund complex exceed payments by other mutual fund complexes, your financial adviser and the Financial Intermediary employing him or her may have an incentive to recommend that fund complex over others. Please speak with your financial adviser to learn more about the total amounts paid to your financial adviser and his or her firm by the Distributor and its affiliates and by sponsors of other mutual funds he or she may recommend to you. You should also consult disclosures made by your Financial Intermediary at the time of purchase.
21
Third-Party Transactions . The State Street Funds have authorized certain Financial Intermediaries to accept purchase, redemption and exchange orders on the State Street Funds behalf. The Financial Intermediary is responsible for transmitting your purchase request and funds in good form and in a timely manner to the applicable State Street Fund(s). The State Street Funds will not be responsible for delays by the Financial Intermediary in transmitting your purchase request, including timely transfer of payment, to the Fund. Therefore, orders received for a State Street Fund by a Financial Intermediary that has been authorized to accept orders on the Funds behalf (or other Financial Intermediaries designated by the Financial Intermediary) prior to the time the Funds share price is determined will be deemed accepted by the Fund the same day and will be executed at that days closing share price.
If you are purchasing, selling, exchanging or holding State Street Fund shares through a program of services offered by a Financial Intermediary, you may be required by the Financial Intermediary to pay additional fees. You should contact the Financial Intermediary for information concerning what additional fees, if any, may be charged.
Delivery of Documents to Accounts Sharing an Address. To reduce expenses, we may mail only one copy of the Funds Prospectus and annual and semi-annual report to those addresses shared by two or more accounts. If you wish to receive individual copies of these documents, please call us at (877) 521-4083, or contact your financial institution. We will begin sending you individual copies thirty (30) days after receiving your request.
DIVIDENDS, DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The Fund intends to declare dividends on shares from net investment income daily and pay them as of the last business day of each month. Distributions from capital gains, if any, will be made annually in December. Income dividends and capital gains distributions will be paid in additional shares on the reinvestment date unless you have elected to receive them in cash. No interest will accrue on the amounts represented by uncashed distribution checks. If you have elected to receive distributions by check, and the postal or other delivery service is unable to deliver the checks because of an incorrect mailing address, or if a distribution check remains uncashed for six months, the uncashed distribution and all future distribution elections will be reinvested at the then-current NAV of the Fund.
The following discussion is a summary of some important U.S. federal tax considerations generally applicable to an investment in the Fund. Your investment in the Fund may have other tax implications. Please consult your tax advisor about federal, state, local, foreign or other tax laws applicable to you. Investors, including non-U.S. investors, may wish to consult the SAI tax section for additional disclosure.
The Fund invests substantially all of its investible assets in a Portfolio that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The nature and character of the Funds income, gains, losses and deductions generally will be determined at the Portfolio level, and the Fund will be allocated its share of the Portfolios income, gains, losses and deductions. As applicable, references in this discussion to income, gains and losses of the Fund will be to income, gains and losses recognized and deductions accruing at the Portfolio level and allocated to or otherwise taken into account by the Fund, and references to assets of the Fund will be to the Funds allocable share of the assets of the Portfolio.
The Fund has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company and intends each year to qualify and to be eligible to be treated as such. A regulated investment company generally is not subject to tax at the corporate level on income and gains that are timely distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify and be eligible for treatment as a regulated investment company, the Fund must, among other things, satisfy diversification, 90% gross income and distribution requirements. The Funds failure to qualify as a regulated investment company would result in corporate level taxation, and consequently, a reduction in income available for distribution to shareholders.
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, distributions of investment income are generally taxable to you as ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains generally are determined by how long the Portfolio owned the investments that generated them, rather than how long you have owned your Fund Shares. Any net short-term gains the Fund distributes will be taxable to you as ordinary income. The Fund generally does not expect to make distributions that are eligible for taxation as long-term capital gains. Distributions are taxable whether you receive them in cash or reinvest them in additional shares.
When the NAV of Fund Shares varies from $1.00 per share, shareholders will realize a gain or loss upon the sale, exchange or redemption of such Fund Shares. Any gains resulting from the redemption of Fund Shares will generally be taxable to you as either short-term or long-term capital gain, depending upon how long you have held such Fund Shares.
22
The IRS has issued final regulations and published guidance that permit a simplified method of accounting for gains and losses realized upon the disposition of money market fund shares. Shareholders should see the SAI for further information.
A 3.8% Medicare contribution tax is imposed on the net investment income of individuals, estates and trusts to the extent their income exceeds certain threshold amounts. Net investment income generally includes for this purpose dividends paid by the Fund, including any capital gain dividends, and net gains recognized on the redemption of shares of the Fund.
If you are not a U.S. person, dividends paid by the Fund that the Fund properly reports as capital gain dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, or interest-related dividends, each as further defined in the SAI, are not subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax, provided that certain other requirements are met. The Fund is permitted, but is not required, to report any part of its dividends as are eligible for such treatment. The Funds dividends other than those the Fund so reports as capital gain dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, or interest-related dividends generally will be subject to a U.S. withholding tax at the 30% rate (or lower applicable treaty rate). See the Funds SAI for further information.
23
The financial highlight tables are intended to help you understand the Funds Class M Shares financial performance for the past five fiscal years. Certain information reflects the performance results for a single Fund Share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by Ernst &Young LLP, the Trusts independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the Funds financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the annual report to shareholders, which is available upon request. The financial information included in these tables should be read in conjunction with the financial statements incorporated by reference in the SAI.
24
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State Street Institutional Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Financial Highlights
Selected data for a share of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each year is presented below (a) :
Period Ended December 31, |
Net Asset
Value Beginning of Period |
Net
Investment Income/(Loss) |
Gain
(Loss) on Investments |
Total from
Investment Operations |
Distributions
from Net Investment Income |
Distributions
from Capital Gains |
Total
Distributions |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Class M |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0014 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0014 | $ | (0.0014 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.0014 | ) | |||||||||||
2014 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0009 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0009 | $ | (0.0009 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.0009 | ) | |||||||||||
2013 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0012 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0012 | $ | (0.0012 | ) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0012 | ) | ||||||||||
2012 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0022 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0022 | $ | (0.0022 | ) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0022 | ) | ||||||||||
2011 (f) |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0001 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0001 | $ | (0.0001 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.0001 | ) |
(a) |
The per share amounts and percentages include the Funds proportionate share of income and expenses of the corresponding Portfolio. |
(b) |
Total return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares at net asset value on the first day and a sale at net asset value on the last day of each period reported. Distributions are assumed, for the purpose of this calculation, to be reinvested at net asset value per share on the respective payment dates. Total return for periods of less than one year are not annualized. Results represent past performance and are not indicative of future results. |
(c) |
This expense waiver is reflected in both the net operating expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Without these waivers, net investment income would have been lower. |
(d) |
Amount is less than $0.00005 per share. |
(e) |
Amount is less than 0.005%. |
(f) |
The Funds Class M Shares commenced operations on December 15, 2011. |
** | Annualized. |
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State Street Institutional Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Financial Highlights
Net Asset
Value End of Period |
Ratios to Average Net Assets/Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Period Ended December 31, |
Total
Return (b) |
Gross
Expenses |
Net
Expenses |
Net
Investment Income |
Expense
Waiver (c) |
Net Assets
End of Year (000s omitted) |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Class M |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.14 | % | 0.10 | % | 0.10 | % | 0.14 | % | | $ | 1,455,514 | |||||||||||||||
2014 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.09 | % | 0.10 | % | 0.10 | % | 0.09 | % | | $ | 1,626,315 | |||||||||||||||
2013 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.12 | % | 0.10 | % | 0.10 | % | 0.12 | % | | $ | 2,825,313 | |||||||||||||||
2012 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.22 | % | 0.10 | % | 0.10 | % | 0.22 | % | | $ | 1,897,611 | |||||||||||||||
2011 (f) |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.01 | % | 0.10 | %** | 0.10 | %** | 0.17 | %** | | $ | 2,012,117 |
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Contacting the State Street Funds
Online: |
www.ssga.com/cash | 24 hours a day, 7 days a week | ||
Phone: |
(877) 521-4083 | Monday Friday 8 am 5 pm EST |
Written requests should be sent to:
Regular mail |
Registered, Express, Certified Mail | |
State Street Funds P.O. Box 8317 Boston, MA 02266-8317 |
State Street Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, MA 02021 |
The Fund does not consider the U.S. Postal Service or other independent delivery services to be its agents. Therefore, deposits in the mail or with such services, or receipt at the Funds post office box, of purchase orders or redemption requests, do not constitute receipt by the Fund or Transfer Agent.
28
For more information about the Fund:
The Funds SAI includes additional information about the Fund and is incorporated by reference into this document. Additional information about the Funds investments is available, or will be available, in the Funds most recent annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. The Funds SAI is available, without charge, upon request. The Funds annual and semi-annual reports are available, or will be available, without charge, upon request. Shareholders in the Fund may make inquiries to the Fund to receive such information by calling (877) 521-4083 or the customer service center at the telephone number shown in the accompanying contract prospectus, if applicable.
Information about the Fund (including the SAI) can be reviewed and copied at the SECs Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-202-551-8090. Reports and other information about the Fund are available free of charge on the EDGAR Database on the SECs Internet site at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of this information also may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following E-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov, or by writing the SECs Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520.
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.
STATE STREET FINANCIAL CENTER
ONE LINCOLN STREET
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02111
SSITCLMSTATPRO |
The State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Investment Company Act File Number is 811-09819. |
Prospectus
Dated August 26, 2016
State Street Institutional
Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Institutional Class (SSHXX)
Administration Class (SSYXX)
Investment Class (SSVXX)
Investor Class (SSZXX)
Premier Class (SSIXX)
The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus.
Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
An investment in the Fund offered by this Prospectus is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.
The Fund may offer multiple classes of shares. This Prospectus covers only the Institutional Class, Administration Class, Investment Class, Investor Class and Premier Class Shares of the applicable Funds.
Effective October 12, 2016, State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund is a floating net asset value money market fund. The share price of this Fund will fluctuate beginning on that date.
None of State Street Corporation, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Global Advisors, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. or their affiliates (State Street Entities) guarantee the value of your investment at $1.00 per share. Investors should have no expectation of capital support to the Fund from State Street Entities.
1 | ||
1 | ||
Additional Information About Investment Objectives, Principal Strategies and Risks |
8 | |
Additional Information About Non-Principal Investment Strategies and Risks |
14 | |
15 | ||
16 | ||
17 | ||
23 | ||
24 | ||
25 | ||
26 |
Investment Objective
The investment objective of State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund (the ILR Fund or sometimes referred to in context as the Fund) is to seek to maximize current income, to the extent consistent with the preservation of capital and liquidity, by investing in U.S. dollar-denominated money market securities.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the ILR Fund (Fund Shares). The expenses shown in the table and the Example reflect the expenses of the Fund and the Funds proportionate share of the expenses of the State Street Money Market Portfolio (the Money Market Portfolio or sometimes referred to in context as the Portfolio).
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
Institutional | Administration | Investment | Investor | Premier | ||||||||||||||||
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price) |
None | None | None | None | None | |||||||||||||||
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of the lower of the sale proceeds or the original offering price) |
None | None | None | None | None |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Institu
tional |
Admini
stration |
Invest
ment |
Investor | Premier | ||||||||||||||||
Management Fee |
0.05 | % | 0.05 | % | 0.05 | % | 0.05 | % | 0.05 | % | ||||||||||
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees |
0.00 | % | 0.05 | % | 0.10 | % | 0.00 | % | 0.00 | % | ||||||||||
Other Expenses 1 |
0.10 | % | 0.27 | % | 0.32 | % | 0.15 | % | 0.07 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|||||||||||
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses 2 |
0.15 | % | 0.37 | % | 0.47 | % | 0.20 | % | 0.12 | % | ||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
Other expenses are based on estimates for the current fiscal year for the Institutional Class, Administration Class and Investor Class shares. |
2 |
The Funds investment adviser, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the Adviser or SSGA FM), may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid a negative yield (the Voluntary Reduction), or a yield below a specified level, which may vary from time to time in the Advisers sole discretion. The Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2012. As of December 31, 2015, for the Premier Class, Institutional Class, Administration Class and Investor Class, the Adviser had not waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses under the Voluntary Reduction. As of December 31, 2015, for the Investment Class, the Adviser had waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses in the aggregate amount of $5,892,527, since October 1, 2012, none of which is potentially recoverable under the Voluntary Reduction. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund. Any future reimbursement by the Fund of the Voluntary Reduction would increase the Funds expenses and reduce the Funds yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. |
Example:
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated, and then sell all of your Fund Shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 year | 3 years | 5 years | 10 years | |||||||||||||
Institutional Class |
$ | 15 | $ | 48 | $ | 85 | $ | 192 | ||||||||
Administration Class |
$ | 38 | $ | 119 | $ | 208 | $ | 468 | ||||||||
Investment Class |
$ | 48 | $ | 151 | $ | 263 | $ | 591 | ||||||||
Investor Class |
$ | 20 | $ | 64 | $ | 113 | $ | 255 | ||||||||
Premier Class |
$ | 12 | $ | 39 | $ | 68 | $ | 154 |
1
Principal Investment Strategies
The ILR Fund follows a disciplined investment process in which SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (SSGA FM or the Adviser), the investment adviser to the Fund, bases its decisions on the relative attractiveness of different money market instruments. In the Advisers opinion, the attractiveness of an instrument may vary depending on the general level of interest rates, as well as imbalances of supply and demand in the market. The Fund invests in accordance with regulatory requirements applicable to money market funds, which require, among other things, the Fund to invest only in short-term, high quality debt obligations (generally, securities that have remaining maturities of 397 calendar days or less and either have been rated in one of the two highest short-term rating categories or are considered by the Fund to be of comparable quality), to maintain a maximum dollar-weighted average maturity of sixty (60) days or less, and to meet requirements as to portfolio diversification and liquidity.
The Fund currently seeks to maintain a stable net asset value (NAV) per share of $1.00 by valuing its portfolio securities using amortized cost. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will continue to be a money market fund and the NAV of the Funds shares will float, fluctuating with changes in the values of the Funds portfolio securities. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will typically accept purchase and redemption orders multiple times per day, and calculate its NAV at each such time.
The Fund attempts to meet its investment objective by investing in a broad range of money market instruments. These may include among other things: U.S. government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds and other securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest, as applicable, by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposits and time deposits of U.S. and foreign banks (including ECDs, ETDs and YCDs (as defined below); commercial paper and other high quality obligations of U.S. or foreign companies; asset-backed securities, including asset-backed commercial paper; mortgage-related securities; and repurchase agreements. These instruments may bear fixed, variable or floating rates of interest or may be zero-coupon securities. The Fund also may invest in shares of other money market funds, including funds advised by the Adviser. Under normal market conditions, the Fund intends to invest more than 25% of its total assets in bank obligations. A substantial portion of the Fund may be invested in securities that are issued or traded pursuant to exemptions from registration under the federal securities laws.
European Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by a bank outside of the United States. European Time Deposits (ETDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks. Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. These instruments have different risks than those associated with the obligations of U.S. banks operating in the United States.
The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Money Market Portfolio, which has substantially similar investment policies to the Fund. When the Fund invests in this master-feeder structure, the Funds only investments are shares of the Portfolio, and it participates in the investment returns achieved by the Portfolio. Descriptions in this section of the investment activities of the Fund also generally describe the expected investment activities of the Portfolio.
Principal Risks
You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or any other government agency. Although the Fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, the paragraph above is replaced by the paragraph below:
You could lose money by investing in the Fund. Under new requirements for money market funds, beginning October 12, 2016, the Fund will no longer buy and sell its shares at a fixed NAV per share, but will instead buy and sell its shares using a floating NAV reflecting the current market-based values of its portfolio holdings. Because the share price of the Fund will fluctuate, when you sell your shares they may be worth more or less than what you originally paid for them. The Fund may impose a fee upon the sale of your shares or may temporarily suspend your ability to sell shares if the Funds liquidity falls below required minimums because of market conditions or other factors. An investment in the Fund is subject to investment risks, including possible loss of principal, is not a deposit in a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The Funds sponsor has no legal obligation to provide financial support to the Fund, and you should not expect that the sponsor will provide financial support to the Fund at any time.
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General risks associated with the Funds and the Portfolios investment policies and investment strategies are discussed below.
Counterparty Risk: The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties with which the Fund enters into repurchase agreements and other transactions. If a counterparty fails to meet its contractual obligations, the Fund may be unable to terminate the transaction, and it may be delayed or prevented from realizing on any collateral in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding relating to the counterparty.
Debt Securities Risk: The values of debt securities may increase or decrease as a result of the following: market fluctuations, increases in interest rates, actual or perceived inability or unwillingness of issuers, guarantors or liquidity providers to make scheduled principal or interest payments or illiquidity in debt securities markets; the risk of low rates of return due to reinvestment of securities during periods of falling interest rates or repayment by issuers with higher coupon or interest rates; and/or the risk of low income due to falling interest rates. To the extent that interest rates rise, certain underlying obligations may be paid off substantially slower than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. A rising interest rate environment may cause the value of the Funds fixed income securities to decrease, an adverse impact on the liquidity of the Funds fixed income securities, and increased volatility of the fixed income markets. If the principal on a debt obligation is prepaid before expected, the prepayments of principal may have to be reinvested in obligations paying interest at lower rates. During periods of falling interest rates, the income received by the Fund may decline. Changes in interest rates will likely have a greater effect on the values of debt securities of longer durations. Returns on investments in debt securities could trail the returns on other investment options, including investments in equity securities.
Financial Institutions Risk: Changes in the creditworthiness of financial institutions (such as banks and broker-dealers) may adversely affect the values of instruments of issuers in financial industries. Adverse developments in banking and other financial industries may cause the Fund to underperform relative to other funds that invest more broadly across different industries or have a smaller exposure to financial institutions. Changes in governmental regulation and oversight of financial institutions may have an adverse effect on the financial condition of a financial institution.
Income Risk: The Funds income may decline due to falling interest rates or other factors. Issuers of securities held by the Fund may call or redeem the securities during periods of falling interest rates, and the Fund would likely be required to reinvest in securities paying lower interest rates. If an obligation held by the Fund is prepaid, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayment in other obligations paying income at lower rates.
Large Shareholder Risk: To the extent a large proportion of the interests of the Portfolio are held by a small number of investors (or a single investor), including funds or accounts over which the Adviser has investment discretion, the Portfolio is subject to the risk that these investors will purchase or redeem Portfolio interests in large amounts rapidly or unexpectedly, including as a result of an asset allocation decision made by the Adviser. These transactions could adversely affect the ability of the Portfolio to conduct its investment program.
Liquidity Risk: Lack of a ready market or restrictions on resale may limit the ability of the Fund to sell a security at an advantageous time or price or at all. Illiquid securities may trade at a discount from comparable, more liquid investments and may be subject to wide fluctuations in market value. Illiquidity of the Funds holdings may limit the ability of the Fund to obtain cash to meet redemptions on a timely basis. In addition, the Fund, due to limitations on investments in any illiquid securities and/or the difficulty in purchasing and selling such investments, may be unable to achieve its desired level of exposure to a certain market or sector.
Low Short-Term Interest Rates: At the date of this Prospectus, short-term interest rates are at historically low levels, and so the Funds yield is very low. It is possible that the Fund will generate an insufficient amount of income to pay its expenses, and that it will not be able to pay a daily dividend and may have a negative yield (i.e., it may lose money on an operating basis). It is possible that the Fund will maintain a substantial portion of its assets in cash, on which it would earn little, if any, income.
Market Risk: The Funds investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, and general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities markets. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors including, but not limited to, economic growth or recession, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived creditworthiness of issuers, and general market liquidity. The Fund is subject to the risk that geopolitical events will disrupt securities markets and adversely affect global economies and markets.
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Master/Feeder Structure Risk: The Fund pursues its objective by investing substantially all of its assets in another pooled investment vehicle (a master fund). The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the ability of the master fund to meet its investment objective. The Adviser serves as investment adviser to the master fund, leading to potential conflicts of interest. The Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the expenses incurred by the master fund. Substantial redemptions by other investors in a master fund may affect the master funds investment program adversely and limit the ability of the master fund to achieve its objective.
Money Market Fund Regulatory Risk: In July 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted regulatory changes that will affect the structure and operation of money market funds. The revised regulations impose new liquidity requirements on money market funds, permit (and in some cases require) money market funds to impose liquidity fees on redemptions, and permit money market funds to impose gates restricting redemptions from the funds. Institutional money market funds will be required to have a floating NAV. (U.S. government money market funds are exempt from a number of the new regulations.) There are a number of other changes under the revised regulations that relate to diversification, disclosure, reporting and stress testing requirements. These changes and other proposed amendments to the regulations governing money market funds could significantly affect the money market fund industry generally and the operation or performance of the Fund specifically and may have significant adverse effects on a money market funds investment return and on the liquidity of investments in money market funds.
Money Market Risk: An investment in a money market fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Although a money market fund generally seeks to preserve the value of its shares at $1.00 per share, there can be no assurance that it will do so, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund. A major or unexpected increase in interest rates or a decline in the credit quality of an issuer or entity providing credit support, an inactive trading market for money market instruments, or adverse market, economic, industry, political, regulatory, geopolitical, and other conditions could cause a money market funds share price to fall below $1.00. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will not maintain a constant net asset value per share. Beginning at that time, the value of the Funds shares will be calculated to four decimal places and will vary reflecting the value of the portfolio of investments held by the Fund. It is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.
Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk: Investments in mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to the risk of significant credit downgrades, illiquidity, and defaults to a greater extent than many other types of fixed-income investments. During periods of falling interest rates, mortgage- and asset-backed securities may be called or prepaid, which may result in the Fund having to reinvest proceeds in other investments at a lower interest rate. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of mortgage- and asset-backed securities may extend, which may lock in a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and interest rate sensitivity, and reduce the value of the security. Enforcing rights against the underlying assets or collateral may be difficult, and the underlying assets or collateral may be insufficient if the issuer defaults.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk: Non-U.S. securities (including depositary receipts) are subject to political, regulatory, and economic risks not present in domestic investments. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. entity than about a U.S. entity, and many non-U.S. entities are not subject to accounting, auditing, legal and financial report standards comparable to those in the United States. Further, such entities and/or their securities may be subject to risks associated with currency controls; expropriation; changes in tax policy; greater market volatility; differing securities market structures; higher transaction costs; and various administrative difficulties, such as delays in clearing and settling portfolio transactions or in receiving payment of dividends. Securities traded on foreign markets may be less liquid (harder to sell) than securities traded domestically. Foreign governments may impose restrictions on the repatriation of capital to the U.S. In addition, to the extent investments are made in a limited number of countries, events in those countries will have a more significant impact on the Fund. Investments in depositary receipts may be less liquid and more volatile than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.
Rapid Changes in Interest Rates Risk: Rapid changes in interest rates may cause significant requests to redeem Fund Shares, and possibly cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities at a loss to satisfy those requests.
Repurchase Agreement Risk: Repurchase agreements may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. If the Funds counterparty should default on its obligations and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the collateral, or if the value of the collateral is insufficient, the Fund may realize a loss.
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U.S. Government Securities Risk: Certain U.S. Government securities are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States; others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agencys obligations; and still others are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency, instrumentality, or enterprise. Although U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) may be chartered or sponsored by Congress, they are not funded by Congressional appropriations, and their securities are not issued by the U.S. Treasury, are not supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, and involve increased credit risks.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities Risk: During periods of increasing interest rates, changes in the coupon rates of variable or floating rate securities may lag behind the changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in coupon rates. Alternatively, during periods of declining interest rates, the coupon rates on such securities will typically readjust downward resulting in a lower yield. In addition, investment in derivative variable rate securities, such as inverse floaters, whose rates vary inversely with market rates of interest, or range floaters or capped floaters, whose rates are subject to periodic or lifetime caps, or in securities that pay a rate of interest determined by applying a multiple to the variable rate involves special risks as compared to investment in a fixed-rate security and may involve leverage.
Zero Coupon Bond Risk: Zero-coupon bonds usually trade at a deep discount from their face or par values and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current distributions of interest.
Performance
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the ILR Fund by illustrating the variability of the Funds returns for Premier Class shares from year-to-year. The Funds past performance does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Performance history will be available for the Institutional Class, Investor Class and Administration Class shares of the Fund after they have been in operation for one calendar year. Returns of these share classes could have been similar to the returns shown for Premier Class shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities. Returns would differ only to the extent that the new share classes do not have the same expenses as Premier Class shares. Institutional Class, Investor Class and the Administration Class shares are generally expected to incur higher expenses, and so generally lower returns, than Premier Class shares. Current performance information for the Fund is available toll free by calling (877) 521-4083 or by visiting our website at www.ssga.com/cash.
Annual Total Returns (years ended 12/31)
Highest Quarterly Return: 1.33% (Q4, 2006)
Lowest Quarterly Return: 0.02% (Q1, 2015)
Average Annual Total Returns (for periods ended 12/31/15)
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund |
1-Year | 5-Years |
10-Years
or Since Inception |
Inception
Date |
||||||||||||
Premier Class |
0.12 | % | 0.13 | % | 1.43 | % | 8/12/2004 | |||||||||
Investment Class |
0.00 | % | 0.00 | % | 0.44 | % | 10/15/2007 |
To obtain the Funds current yield, please call (877) 521-4083.
Investment Adviser
SSGA FM serves as the investment adviser to the Fund.
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Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
Purchase Minimums
Institutional Class |
||
To establish an account |
$25,000,000 | |
To add to an existing account |
No minimum | |
Administration Class |
||
To establish an account |
$5,000,000 | |
To add to an existing account |
No minimum | |
Investment Class |
||
To establish an account |
$25,000,000 | |
To add to an existing account |
No minimum | |
Investor Class |
||
To establish an account |
$10,000,000 | |
To add to an existing account |
No minimum | |
Premier Class |
||
To establish an account |
$500,000,000 | |
To add to an existing account |
No minimum |
You may purchase or redeem Fund Shares on any day the Fund is open for business.
You may purchase or redeem Fund Shares by written request or wire transfer. Written requests should be sent to:
By Mail:
State Street Funds
P.O. Box 8048
Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048
By Overnight:
State Street Funds
30 Dan Road
Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809
By Telephone:
For wire transfer instructions, please call (866) 392-0869 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time. Redemptions by telephone are permitted only if you previously have been authorized for these transactions.
By Intermediary:
If you wish to purchase or redeem Fund Shares through a broker, bank or other financial intermediary (Financial Intermediary), please contact that Financial Intermediary directly. Your Financial Intermediary may have different or additional requirements for opening an account and/or for the processing of purchase and redemption orders, or may be closed at times when the Fund is open.
Financial Intermediaries may contact the Boston Financial Data Services Group at (877) 332-6207 or email them at nsccresearch@bostonfinancial.com with questions.
Tax Information
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Funds distributions are generally taxed as ordinary income, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or individual retirement account. Any withdrawals made from such tax-advantaged arrangement may be taxable to you.
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Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
If you purchase Fund Shares through a broker-dealer or other Financial Intermediary (such as a bank), the Adviser or its affiliates may pay the Financial Intermediary for certain activities related to the Fund, including educational training programs, conferences, the development of technology platforms and reporting systems, or other services related to the sale or promotion of the Fund. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your Financial Intermediarys website for more information.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES, PRINCIPAL STRATEGIES AND RISKS
Investment Objective
The investment objective of the Fund, as stated in the Fund Summary, may be changed without shareholder approval.
Principal Investment Strategies
The ILR Fund follows a disciplined investment process in which SSGA FM bases its decisions on the relative attractiveness of different money market instruments. In the Advisers opinion, the attractiveness of an instrument may vary depending on the general level of interest rates, as well as imbalances of supply and demand in the market. The Fund invests in accordance with regulatory requirements applicable to money market funds, which require, among other things, the Fund to invest only in short-term, high quality debt obligations (generally, securities that have remaining maturities of 397 calendar days or less and either have been rated in one of the two highest short-term rating categories or are considered by the Fund to be of comparable quality), to maintain a maximum dollar-weighted average maturity of sixty (60) days or less, and to meet requirements as to portfolio diversification and liquidity.
The Fund currently seeks to maintain a stable net asset value (NAV) per share of $1.00 by valuing its portfolio securities using amortized cost. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will continue to be a money market fund and the NAV of the Funds shares will float, fluctuating with changes in the values of the Funds portfolio securities. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will typically accept purchase and redemption orders multiple times per day, and calculate its NAV at each such time.
The Fund attempts to meet its investment objective by investing in a broad range of money market instruments. These may include among other things: U.S. government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds and other securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest, as applicable, by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposits and time deposits of U.S. and foreign banks (including ECDs, ETDs and YCDs (as defined below); commercial paper and other high quality obligations of U.S. or foreign companies; asset-backed securities, including asset-backed commercial paper; mortgage-related securities; and repurchase agreements. These instruments may bear fixed, variable or floating rates of interest or may be zero-coupon securities. The Fund also may invest in shares of other money market funds, including funds advised by the Adviser. Under normal market conditions, the Fund intends to invest more than 25% of its total assets in bank obligations. A substantial portion of the Fund may be invested in securities that are issued or traded pursuant to exemptions from registration under the federal securities laws.
European Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by a bank outside of the United States. European Time Deposits (ETDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks. Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. These instruments have different risks than those associated with the obligations of U.S. banks operating in the United States.
The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Money Market Portfolio, which has substantially similar investment policies to the Fund. When the Fund invests in this master-feeder structure, the Funds only investments are shares of the Portfolio, and it participates in the investment returns achieved by the Portfolio. Descriptions in this section of the investment activities of the Fund also generally describe the expected investment activities of the Portfolio.
Additional Information About Risks
Call/Prepayment Risk. Call/prepayment risk is the risk that an issuer will exercise its right to pay principal on an obligation held by the Fund earlier than expected or required. This may occur, for example, when there is a decline in interest rates, and an issuer of bonds or preferred stock redeems the bonds or stock in order to replace them with obligations on which it is required to pay a lower interest or dividend rate. It may also occur when there is an unanticipated increase in the rate at which mortgages or other receivables underlying mortgage- or asset-backed securities held by the Fund are prepaid. In any such case, the Fund may be forced to invest the prepaid amounts in lower-yielding investments, resulting in a decline in the Funds income.
Counterparty Risk. The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties with which the Fund enters into repurchase agreements and other transactions. If a counterparty fails to meet its contractual obligations, the Fund may be unable to terminate the transaction, and it may be delayed or prevented from realizing on any collateral in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding relating to the counterparty.
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Credit Risk. Credit risk is the risk that an issuer, guarantor or liquidity provider of a fixed-income security held by the Fund may be unable or unwilling, or may be perceived (whether by market participants, ratings agencies, pricing services or otherwise) as unable or unwilling, to make timely principal and/or interest payments, or to otherwise honor its obligations. It includes the risk that the security will be downgraded by a credit rating agency; generally, lower credit quality issuers present higher credit risks. An actual or perceived decline in creditworthiness of an issuer of a fixed-income security held by the Fund may result in a decrease in the value of the security. It is possible that the ability of an issuer to meet its obligations will decline substantially during the period when the Fund owns securities of the issuer or that the issuer will default on its obligations or that the obligations of the issuer will be limited or restructured.
The credit rating assigned to any particular investment does not necessarily reflect the issuers current financial condition and does not reflect an assessment of an investments volatility or liquidity. Securities rated in the lowest category of investment grade are considered to have speculative characteristics. If a security held by the Fund loses its rating or its rating is downgraded, the Fund may nonetheless continue to hold the security in the discretion of the Adviser. In the case of asset-backed or mortgage-related securities, changes in the actual or perceived ability of the obligors on the underlying assets or mortgages to make payments of interest and/or principal may affect the values of those securities.
Debt Securities Risk. The values of debt securities may increase or decrease as a result of the following: market fluctuations, increases in interest rates, actual or perceived inability or unwillingness of issuers, guarantors or liquidity providers to make scheduled principal or interest payments or illiquidity in debt securities markets; the risk of low rates of return due to reinvestment of securities during periods of falling interest rates or repayment by issuers with higher coupon or interest rates; and/or the risk of low income due to falling interest rates. To the extent that interest rates rise, certain underlying obligations may be paid off substantially slower than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. A rising interest rate environment may cause the value of the Funds fixed income securities to decrease, an adverse impact on the liquidity of the Funds fixed income securities, and increased volatility of the fixed income markets. If the principal on a debt obligation is prepaid before expected, the prepayments of principal may have to be reinvested in obligations paying interest at lower rates. During periods of falling interest rates, the income received by the Fund may decline. Changes in interest rates will likely have a greater effect on the values of debt securities of longer durations. Returns on investments in debt securities could trail the returns on other investment options, including investments in equity securities.
Extension Risk. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of slower-than-expected principal payments. This may increase the period of time during which an investment earns a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and reduce the value of the security. Extension risk may be heightened during periods of adverse economic conditions generally, as payment rates decline due to higher unemployment levels and other factors.
Financial Institutions Risk. Some instruments are issued or guaranteed by financial institutions, such as banks and brokers, or are collateralized by securities issued or guaranteed by financial institutions. Changes in the creditworthiness of any of these institutions may adversely affect the values of instruments of issuers in financial industries. Financial institutions may be particularly sensitive to certain economic factors such as interest rate changes, adverse developments in the real estate market, fiscal and monetary policy and general economic cycles. Adverse developments in banking and other financial industries may cause the Fund to underperform relative to other funds that invest more broadly across different industries or have a smaller exposure to financial institutions. Changes in governmental regulation and oversight of financial institutions may have an adverse effect on the financial condition or the earnings or operations of a financial institution and on the types and amounts of businesses in which a financial institution may engage. An investor may be delayed or prevented from exercising certain remedies against a financial institution. The amount of the Funds assets that may be invested in any financial institution, or financial institutions generally, may be limited by applicable law.
Income Risk. The Funds income may decline due to falling interest rates or other factors. Issuers of securities held by the Fund may call or redeem the securities during periods of falling interest rates, and the Fund would likely be required to reinvest in securities paying lower interest rates. If an obligation held by the Fund is prepaid, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayment in other obligations paying income at lower rates. A reduction in the income earned by the Fund may limit the Funds ability to achieve its objective.
Interest Rate Risk. Interest rate risk is the risk that the securities held by the Fund will decline in value because of increases in market interest rates. Debt securities with longer durations tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates, usually making them more volatile than debt securities with shorter durations. For example, the value of a security with a duration of five years would be expected to decrease by 5% for every 1% increase in interest rates. Falling interest rates also create the potential for a decline in the Funds income and yield. Interest-only and principal-only securities are especially sensitive to interest rate changes, which can affect
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not only their prices but can also change the income flows and repayment assumptions about those investments. Variable and floating rate securities also generally increase or decrease in value in response to changes in interest rates, although generally to a lesser degree than fixed-rate securities. A substantial increase in interest rates may also have an adverse impact on the liquidity of a security, especially those with longer durations. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. Changes in governmental policy, including changes in central bank monetary policy, could cause interest rates to rise rapidly, or cause investors to expect a rapid rise in interest rates. This could lead to heightened levels of interest rate, volatility and liquidity risks for the fixed income markets generally and could have a substantial and immediate effect on the values of the Funds investments.
Large Shareholder Risk. To the extent a large proportion of the interests of the Portfolio are highly concentrated or held by a small number of investors (or a single investor), including funds or accounts over which the Adviser has investment discretion, the Portfolio is subject to the risk that these investors will purchase or redeem Portfolio interests in large amounts rapidly or unexpectedly, including as a result of an asset allocation decision made by the Adviser. These transactions could adversely affect the ability of the Portfolio to conduct its investment program. For example, they could require the Portfolio to sell portfolio securities or purchase portfolio securities unexpectedly and incur substantial transaction costs and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and/or gains to investors, or the Portfolio may be required to sell its more liquid portfolio investments to meet a large redemption, in which case the Portfolios remaining assets may be less liquid, more volatile, and more difficult to price. The Portfolio may hold a relatively large proportion of its assets in cash in anticipation of large redemptions, diluting its investment returns.
Liquidity Risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Fund may not be able to dispose of securities or close out derivatives transactions readily at a favorable time or prices (or at all) or at prices approximating those at which the Fund currently values them. For example, certain investments may be subject to restrictions on resale, may trade in the over-the-counter market or in limited volume, or may not have an active trading market. Illiquid securities may trade at a discount from comparable, more liquid investments and may be subject to wide fluctuations in market value. It may be difficult for the Fund to value illiquid securities accurately. The market for certain investments may become illiquid under adverse market or economic conditions independent of any specific adverse changes in the conditions of a particular issuer. Disposal of illiquid securities may entail registration expenses and other transaction costs that are higher than those for liquid securities. The Fund may seek to borrow money to meet its obligations (including among other things redemption obligations) if it is unable to dispose of illiquid investments, resulting in borrowing expenses and possible leveraging of the Fund. In some cases, due to unanticipated levels of illiquidity the Fund may choose to meet its redemption obligations wholly or in part by distributions of assets in-kind.
Low Short-Term Interest Rate Risk. At the date of this Prospectus, short-term interest rates are at historically low levels, and so the Funds yield is very low. It is possible that the Fund will generate an insufficient amount of income to pay its expenses, and that it will not be able to pay a daily dividend and may have a negative yield (i.e., it may lose money on an operating basis). It is possible that the Fund will maintain a substantial portion of its assets in cash, on which it would earn little, if any, income.
Market Disruption and Geopolitical Risk. The Fund is subject to the risk that geopolitical events will disrupt securities markets and adversely affect global economies and markets. War, terrorism, and related geopolitical events have led, and in the future may lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on U.S. and world economies and markets generally. Likewise, natural and environmental disasters and systemic market dislocations may be highly disruptive to economies and markets. Those events as well as other changes in foreign and domestic economic and political conditions also could adversely affect individual issuers or related groups of issuers, securities markets, interest rates, credit ratings, inflation, investor sentiment, and other factors affecting the value of the Funds investments. Given the increasing interdependence among global economies and markets, conditions in one country, market, or region might adversely affect markets, issuers, and/or foreign exchange rates in other countries, including the U.S. Any partial or complete dissolution of the European Monetary Union, or any increased uncertainty as to its status, could have significant adverse effects on currency and financial markets, and on the values of the Funds investments. Securities and financial markets may be susceptible to market manipulation or other fraudulent trade practices, which could disrupt the orderly functioning of these markets or adversely affect the values of investments traded in these markets, including investments held by the Fund. To the extent the Fund has focused its investments in the market or index of a particular region, adverse geopolitical and other events could have a disproportionate impact on the Fund.
Market Risk. Market prices of investments held by the Fund will go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably. The Funds investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities markets. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors including, but not limited to, economic growth or recession, changes in interest rates, changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness of issuers and general market liquidity. Even if general economic conditions do not change, the value of an investment in the Fund
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could decline if the particular industries, sectors or companies in which the Fund invests do not perform well or are adversely affected by events. Further, legal, political, regulatory and tax changes also may cause fluctuations in markets and securities prices.
Market Volatility; Government Intervention Risk. Market dislocations and other external events, such as the failures or near failures of significant financial institutions, dislocations in investment or currency markets, corporate or governmental defaults or credit downgrades, or poor collateral performance, may subject the Fund to significant risk of substantial volatility and loss. Governmental and regulatory authorities have taken, and may in the future take, actions to provide or arrange credit supports to financial institutions whose operations have been compromised by credit market dislocations and to restore liquidity and stability to financial systems in their jurisdictions; the implementation of such governmental interventions and their impact on both the markets generally and the Funds investment program in particular can be uncertain. In recent periods, governmental and non-governmental issuers have defaulted on, or have been forced to restructure, their debts, and many other issuers have faced difficulties obtaining credit. These market conditions may continue, worsen or spread, including, without limitation, in Europe or Asia. Defaults or restructurings by governments or others of their debts could have substantial adverse effects on economies, financial markets, and asset valuations around the world. In recent periods, financial regulators, including the U.S. Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank, have taken steps to maintain historically low interest rates, such as by purchasing bonds. Some governmental authorities have taken steps to devalue their currencies substantially or have taken other steps to counter actual or anticipated market or other developments. Steps by those regulators to implement, or to curtail or taper, such activities could have substantial negative effects on financial markets. The withdrawal of support, failure of efforts in response to a financial crisis, or investor perception that these efforts are not succeeding could negatively affect financial markets generally as well as the values and liquidity of certain securities.
Master/Feeder Structure Risk. The Fund pursues its objective by investing substantially all of its assets in another pooled investment vehicle (a master fund or Portfolio). The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the ability of the master fund to meet its investment objective. The ability of the Fund to meet its objective may be adversely affected by the purchase and redemption activities of other investors in the master fund. The ability of the Fund to meet redemption requests will depend on its ability to redeem its interest in the master fund. The Adviser or an affiliate serves as investment adviser to the master fund, leading to potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates will receive fees based on the amount of assets invested in the master fund. Investment by the Fund in the master fund may be beneficial in the management of the master fund, by helping to achieve economies of scale or enhancing cash flows. Due to this and other factors, the Adviser may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates in lieu of investments by the Fund directly in portfolio securities, or may have an incentive to invest in such master fund over a master fund sponsored or managed by others. Similarly, the Adviser may have an incentive to delay or decide against the sale of interests held by the Fund in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. It is possible that other clients of the Adviser or its affiliates will purchase or sell interests in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates at prices and at times more favorable than those at which the Fund does so. The Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the expenses incurred by the master fund.
Money Market Fund Regulatory Risk . In July 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted regulatory changes that will affect the structure and operation of money market funds. The revised regulations impose new liquidity requirements on money market funds, permit (and in some cases require) money market funds to impose liquidity fees on redemptions, and permit money market funds to impose gates restricting redemptions from the funds. Institutional money market funds will be required to have a floating NAV. (U.S. government money market funds are exempt from a number of the new regulations.) There are a number of other changes under the revised regulations that relate to diversification, disclosure, reporting and stress testing requirements. These changes and other proposed amendments to the regulations governing money market funds could significantly affect the money market fund industry generally.
Money Market Risk . An investment in a money market fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Although a money market fund generally seeks to preserve the value of its shares at $1.00 per share, there can be no assurance that it will do so, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund. A major or unexpected increase in interest rates or a decline in the credit quality of an issuer or entity providing credit support, an inactive trading market for money market instruments, or adverse market, economic, industry, political, regulatory, geopolitical, and other conditions could cause a money market funds share price to fall below $1.00. It is possible that a money market fund will issue and redeem shares at $1.00 per share at times when the fair value of the money market funds portfolio per share is more or less than $1.00. Recent changes in the regulation of money market funds may affect the operations and structures of such funds. A money market fund may be permitted or required to impose redemption fees or to impose limitations on redemptions during periods of high illiquidity in the markets for the investments held by it. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will not maintain a constant net asset value per share. Beginning at that time, the value of the Funds shares will be calculated to four decimal places and will vary reflecting the value of the portfolio of investments held by the Fund. It is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund. None of
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State Street Corporation, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Global Advisors (SSGA), SSGA FM or their affiliates (State Street Entities) guarantee the value of an investment in a money market fund at $1.00 per share. Investors should have no expectation of capital support to a money market fund from State Street Entities.
Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk. Investments in mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to the risk of significant credit downgrades, illiquidity, and defaults to a greater extent than many other types of fixed income investments. Mortgage-related securities represent a participation in, or are secured by, mortgage loans. Other asset-backed securities are typically structured like mortgage-related securities, but instead of mortgage loans or interests in mortgage loans, the underlying assets may include, for example, items such as motor vehicle installment sales or installment loan contracts, leases on various types of real and personal property, and receivables from credit card agreements. During periods of falling interest rates, mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities, which typically provide the issuer with the right to prepay the security prior to maturity, may be prepaid, which may result in the Fund having to reinvest the proceeds in other investments at lower interest rates. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may extend because of slower-than expected principal payments. This may lock in a below market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and interest rate sensitivity, and reduce the value of the security. As a result, mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may have less potential for capital appreciation during periods of declining interest rates than other debt securities of comparable maturities, although they may have a similar risk of decline in market values during periods of rising interest rates. Prepayment rates are difficult to predict and the potential impact of prepayments on the value of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security depends on the terms of the instrument and can result in significant volatility. The price of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security also depends on the credit quality and adequacy of the underlying assets or collateral. Defaults on the underlying assets, if any, may impair the value of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security. For some asset-backed securities in which the Fund invests, such as those backed by credit card receivables, the underlying cash flows may not be supported by a security interest in a related asset. Moreover, the values of mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may be substantially dependent on the servicing of the underlying asset pools, and are therefore subject to risks associated with the negligence or malfeasance by their servicers and to the credit risk of their servicers. In certain situations, the mishandling of related documentation may also affect the rights of securities holders in and to the underlying collateral. There may be legal and practical limitations on the enforceability of any security interest granted with respect to underlying assets, or the value of the underlying assets, if any, may be insufficient if the issuer defaults.
In a forward roll transaction, the Fund will sell a mortgage-related security to a bank or other permitted entity and simultaneously agree to purchase a similar security from the institution at a later date at an agreed upon price. The mortgage securities that are purchased will bear the same interest rate as those sold, but generally will be collateralized by different pools of mortgages with different prepayment histories than those sold. The values of such transactions will be affected by many of the same factors that affect the values of mortgage-related securities generally. In addition, forward roll transactions may have the effect of creating investment leverage in the Fund.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk. Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers (including depositary receipts) entail risks not typically associated with investing in securities of U.S. issuers. Similar risks may apply to securities traded on a U.S. securities exchange that are issued by entities with significant exposure to non-U.S. countries. In certain countries, legal remedies available to investors may be more limited than those available with regard to U.S. investments. Income and gains with respect to investments in certain countries may be subject to withholding and other taxes. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. entity than about a U.S. entity, and many non-U.S. entities are not subject to accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards, regulatory framework and practices comparable to those in the United States. The securities of some non-U.S. entities are less liquid and at times more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. entities, and could become subject to sanctions or embargoes that adversely affect the Funds investment. Non-U.S. transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions and custody costs may be higher than in the U.S. In addition, there may be a possibility of nationalization or expropriation of assets, imposition of currency exchange controls, confiscatory taxation, and diplomatic developments that could adversely affect the values of the Funds investments in certain non-U.S. countries. Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers also are subject to foreign political and economic risk not associated with U.S. investments, meaning that political events (civil unrest, national elections, changes in political conditions and foreign relations, imposition of exchange controls and repatriation restrictions), social and economic events (labor strikes, rising inflation) and natural disasters occurring in a country where the Fund invests could cause the Funds investments in that country to experience gains or losses.
Rapid Changes in Interest Rates. The values of most instruments held by the Fund are adversely affected by changes in interest rates generally, especially increases in interest rates. Rapid changes in interest rates may cause significant requests to redeem Fund Shares, and possibly cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities at a loss to satisfy those requests. Significant losses would negatively affect the Funds returns and could impair the Funds ability to maintain a stable share price of $1.00.
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Reinvestment Risk. Income from the Funds portfolio may decline when the Fund invests the proceeds from investment income, sales of portfolio securities or matured, traded or called debt obligations. For instance, during periods of declining interest rates, an issuer of debt obligations may exercise an option to redeem securities prior to maturity, forcing the Fund to reinvest the proceeds in lower-yielding securities. A decline in income received by the Fund from its investments is likely to have a negative effect on the yield and total return of the Fund Shares.
Repurchase Agreement Risk. A repurchase agreement is an agreement to buy a security from a seller at one price and a simultaneous agreement to sell it back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price, typically representing the purchase price plus interest. Repurchase agreements may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. The Funds investment return on such transactions will depend on the counterpartys willingness and ability to perform its obligations under a repurchase agreement. If the Funds counterparty should default on its obligations and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the collateral, or if the value of the collateral is insufficient, the Fund may realize a loss.
Risk of Investment in Other Pools. If the Fund invests in another pooled investment vehicle, it is exposed to the risk that the other pool will not perform as expected. The Fund is exposed indirectly to all of the risks applicable to an investment in such other pool. In addition, lack of liquidity in the underlying pool could result in its value being more volatile than the underlying portfolio of securities, and may limit the ability of the Fund to sell or redeem its interest in the pool at a time or at a price it might consider desirable. The investment policies and limitations of the other pool may not be the same as those of the Fund; as a result, the Fund may be subject to additional or different risks, or may achieve a reduced investment return, as a result of its investment in another pool. If a pool is an exchange-traded fund or other product traded on a securities exchange or otherwise actively traded, its shares may trade at a premium or discount to their NAV, an effect that might be more pronounced in less liquid markets. The Fund bears its proportionate share of the fees and expenses of any pool in which it invests. The Adviser or an affiliate may serve as investment adviser to a pool in which the Fund may invest, leading to potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates may receive fees based on the amount of assets invested in the pool. Investment by the Fund in the pool may be beneficial to the Adviser or an affiliate in the management of the pool, by helping to achieve economies of scale or enhancing cash flows. Due to this and other factors, the Adviser may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates in lieu of investments by the Fund directly in portfolio securities, or may have an incentive to invest in the pool over a pool sponsored or managed by others. Similarly, the Adviser may have an incentive to delay or decide against the sale of interests held by the Fund in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. It is possible that other clients of the Adviser or its affiliates will purchase or sell interests in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates at prices and at times more favorable than those at which the Fund does so.
Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper and Rule 144A Securities Risk . The Fund may invest in commercial paper issued in reliance on the private placement exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act). This commercial paper is commonly called Section 4(a)(2) paper. The Fund may also invest in securities that may be offered and sold only to qualified institutional buyers under Rule 144A of the 1933 Act (Rule 144A securities).
Section 4(a)(2) paper is sold to institutional investors who must agree to purchase the paper for investment and not with a view to public distribution. Any resale by the purchaser must be in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. Section 4(a)(2) paper normally is resold to other institutional investors like the Fund through or with the assistance of the issuer or investment dealers that make a market in Section 4(a)(2) paper. As a result it suffers from liquidity risk, the risk that the securities may be difficult to value because of the absence of an active market and the risk that it may be sold only after considerable expense and delay, if at all. Rule 144A securities generally must be sold only to other qualified institutional buyers.
Section 4(a)(2) paper and Rule 144A securities will not be considered illiquid for purposes of the Funds limitation on illiquid securities if the Adviser (pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board) determines that a liquid trading market exists for the securities in question. There can be no assurance that a liquid trading market will exist at any time for any particular Section 4(a)(2) paper or Rule 144A securities. The Statement of Additional Information (SAI) addresses the Funds limitation on illiquid securities.
Settlement Risk . Markets in different countries have different clearance and settlement procedures and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of transactions. Delays in settlement may increase credit risk to the Fund, limit the ability of the Fund to reinvest the proceeds of a sale of securities, hinder the ability of the Fund to lend its portfolio securities, and potentially subject the Fund to penalties for its failure to deliver to on-purchasers of securities whose delivery to the Fund was delayed. Delays in the settlement of securities purchased by the Fund may limit the ability of the Fund to sell those securities at times and prices it considers desirable, and may subject the Fund to losses and costs due to its own inability to settle with subsequent purchasers of the securities from it. The Fund may be required to borrow monies it had otherwise expected to receive in connection with the settlement of securities sold by it, in order to meet its obligations to others.
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Stable Share Price Risk. If the market value of one or more of the Funds investments changes substantially, the Fund may not be able to maintain a stable share price of $1.00. This risk typically is higher during periods of rapidly changing interest rates or when issuer credit quality generally is falling, and is made worse when the Fund experiences significant redemption requests. This risk applies for the Fund through October 11, 2016.
U.S. Government Securities Risk. U.S. Government securities, such as Treasury bills, notes and bonds and mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae), are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States; others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agencys obligations; and still others are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency, instrumentality, or enterprise. Although U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) may be chartered or sponsored by Congress, they are not funded by Congressional appropriations, and their securities are not issued by the U.S. Treasury nor supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. There is no assurance that the U.S. Government would provide financial support to its agencies and instrumentalities if not required to do so. In addition, certain governmental entities have been subject to regulatory scrutiny regarding their accounting policies and practices and other concerns that may result in legislation, changes in regulatory oversight and/or other consequences that could adversely affect the credit quality, availability, or investment character of securities issued by these entities. The value and liquidity of U.S. Government securities may be affected adversely by changes in the ratings of those securities. Securities issued by the U.S. Treasury historically have been considered to present minimal credit risk. The downgrade in the long-term U.S. credit rating by at least one major rating agency has introduced greater uncertainty about the ability of the U.S. to repay its obligations. A further credit rating downgrade or a U.S. credit default could decrease the value and increase the volatility of the Funds investments.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities. Variable or floating rate securities are debt securities with variable or floating interest rates payments. Variable or floating rate securities bear rates of interest that are adjusted periodically according to formulae intended generally to reflect market rates of interest and allow the Fund to participate (determined in accordance with the terms of the securities) in increases in interest rates through upward adjustments of the coupon rates on the securities. However, during periods of increasing interest rates, changes in the coupon rates may lag behind the changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in coupon rates. Alternatively, during periods of declining interest rates, the coupon rates on such securities will typically readjust downward resulting in a lower yield. The Fund may also invest in variable or floating rate equity securities, whose dividend payments vary based on changes in market rates of interest or other factors.
Zero-Coupon Bond Risk. Zero-coupon bonds are debt obligations that are generally issued at a discount and payable in full at maturity, and that do not provide for current payments of interest prior to maturity. Zero-coupon bonds usually trade at a deep discount from their face or par values and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current distributions of interest. When interest rates rise, the values of zero-coupon bonds fall more rapidly than securities paying interest on a current basis, because the Fund is unable to reinvest interest payments at the higher rates.
A DDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT NON-PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISKS
The investments described below reflect the Funds and the Portfolios current practices. In addition to the principal risks described above, other risks are described in some of the descriptions of the investments below:
Conflicts of Interest Risk. An investment in the Fund may be subject to a number of actual or potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates may provide services to the Fund, such as securities lending agency services, custodial, administrative, bookkeeping, and accounting services, transfer agency and shareholder servicing, securities brokerage services, and other services for which the Fund would compensate the Adviser and/or such affiliates. The Fund may invest in other pooled investment vehicles sponsored, managed, or otherwise affiliated with the Adviser. There is no assurance that the rates at which the Fund pays fees or expenses to the Adviser or its affiliates, or the terms on which it enters into transactions with the Adviser or its affiliates will be the most favorable available in the market generally or as favorable as the rates the Adviser makes available to other clients. Because of its financial interest, the Adviser may have an incentive to enter into transactions or arrangements on behalf of the Fund with itself or its affiliates in circumstances where it might not have done so in the absence of that interest.
The Adviser and its affiliates serve as investment adviser to other clients and may make investment decisions that may be different from those that will be made by the Adviser on behalf of the Fund. For example, the Adviser may provide asset allocation advice to some clients that may include a recommendation to invest in or redeem from particular issuers while not providing that same
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recommendation to all clients invested in the same or similar issuers. The Adviser may (subject to applicable law) be simultaneously seeking to purchase (or sell) investments for the Fund and to sell (or purchase) the same investment for accounts, funds, or structured products for which it serves as asset manager, or for other clients or affiliates. The Adviser and its affiliates may invest for clients in various securities that are senior, pari passu or junior to, or have interests different from or adverse to, the securities that are owned by the Fund. The Adviser or its affiliates, in connection with its other business activities, may acquire material non-public confidential information that may restrict the Adviser from purchasing securities or selling securities for itself or its clients (including the Fund) or otherwise using such information for the benefit of its clients or itself.
The foregoing does not purport to be a comprehensive list or complete explanation of all potential conflicts of interests which may affect the Fund. The Fund may encounter circumstances, or enter into transactions, in which conflicts of interest that are not listed or discussed above may arise.
Cybersecurity Risk. With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet and the dependence on computer systems to perform business and operational functions, funds (such as the Fund) 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, the Fund, the Portfolio, the Adviser, or a custodian, transfer agent, or other affiliated or third-party service provider may adversely affect the Fund or its shareholders. For instance, cyber-attacks or technical malfunctions may interfere with the processing of shareholder or other transactions, affect the Funds ability to calculate its NAV, cause the release of private shareholder information or confidential Fund information, 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 or technical malfunctions 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 Fund may also incur substantial costs for cybersecurity risk management in order to prevent cyber incidents in the future. The Fund and its 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 Fund relies on third-party service providers for many of its 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 cybersecurity risks or technical malfunctions also are present for issuers of securities in which the Fund invests, which could result in material adverse consequences for such issuers, and may cause the Funds investment in such securities to lose value.
The Funds portfolio holdings disclosure policy is described in the SAI.
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The Fund is a separate, diversified series of the State Street Institutional Investment Trust (the Trust), which is an open-end management investment company organized as a business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The Fund invests as part of a master/feeder structure. The Fund currently seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Portfolio, a separate mutual fund, that has substantially identical investment objective, investment policies, and risks as the Fund. All discussions about the Funds investment objective, policies and risks should be understood to refer also to the investment objectives, policies and risks of the Portfolio.
The Fund can withdraw its investment in the Portfolio if, at any time, the Funds Board of Trustees determines that it would be in the best interests of the Funds shareholders, or if the investment objectives of the Portfolio changed so that they were inconsistent with the objectives of the Fund. If the Fund withdraws its investment from the Portfolio, the Fund may invest all of its assets in another mutual fund that has the same investment objective as the Fund, the Adviser may directly manage the Funds assets, or the Board may take such other action it deems appropriate and in the best interests of shareholders of the Fund, which may include liquidation of the Fund.
Investment Adviser
SSGA FM serves as the investment adviser to the Fund and Portfolio and, subject to the supervision of the Board, is responsible for the investment management of the Fund. The Adviser provides an investment management program for the Fund and manages the investment of the Funds assets. The Adviser is a wholly-owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation and is registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The Adviser and certain other affiliates of State Street Corporation make up SSGA. SSGA is one of the worlds largest institutional money managers and the investment management arm of State Street Corporation. As of June 30, 2016, the Adviser managed approximately $398.23 billion in assets and SSGA managed approximately $2.30 trillion in assets. The Advisers principal business address is State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.
The Fund has entered into an investment advisory agreement with the Adviser pursuant to which the Adviser will manage the Funds assets directly, for compensation paid at an annual rate of 0.05% of the Funds average daily net assets, in the event that the Fund were to cease investing substantially all of its assets in its Portfolio or another investment company with essentially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund. The Adviser does not receive any management fees from the Fund under that agreement so long as the Fund continues to invest substantially all of its assets in the Portfolio or in another investment company with essentially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund. The Adviser places all orders for purchases and sales of the Portfolios investments. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the effective management fee paid, reflecting certain fee waivers and expense reimbursements of the Adviser, was 0.05% for the Portfolio.
In addition to any contractual expense limitation for the Fund which is described in the Fund Summary, the Adviser also may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses for the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid negative yield which may vary from time to time and from Fund to Fund in the Advisers sole discretion. Under an agreement with the Adviser relating to the Voluntary Reduction, the Fund and the Portfolio have agreed to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction beginning on October 1, 2012, subject to certain limitations. The Fund will not be obligated to reimburse the Adviser:
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more than three years after the end of the fiscal year for the Fund in which the Adviser provided a Voluntary Reduction; |
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in respect of any business day for which the net annualized one-day yield is less than 0.00%; |
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to the extent that the amount of the reimbursement to the Adviser on any day exceeds fifty percent of the yield (net of all expenses, exclusive of the reimbursement) of the Fund on that day; |
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to the extent that the amount of such reimbursement would cause the Funds net yield to fall below the Funds minimum net yield as determined by the Adviser in its sole discretion; or |
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in respect of any fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements that are necessary to maintain the Funds contractual total expense limit which is effective at the time of such fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. |
A reimbursement to the Adviser would increase fund expenses and negatively impact the Funds future yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. Reimbursement payments by the Fund to the Adviser in connection with the Voluntary Reduction are considered extraordinary
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expenses and are not subject to any contractual expense limitation agreement in effect for the Fund at the time of such payment. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund.
A discussion regarding the Boards consideration of the Funds Investment Advisory Agreement is provided in the Trusts Semi-Annual Report to Shareholders for the period ended June 30, 2015.
The Administrator, Sub-Administrator and Custodian.
The Adviser serves as administrator of the Fund. The amount of the fee paid to the Adviser for administrative services may vary by share class. The Fund currently pays the Adviser an administrative fee at the annual rate of 0.05% in respect of the class of shares in this Prospectus. State Street Bank and Trust Company (State Street), a subsidiary of State Street Corporation, serves as the sub-administrator for the Fund for a fee that is paid by the Adviser. State Street also serves as custodian of the Fund for a separate fee that is paid by the Fund. SSGA FM serves as administrator of the Portfolio and State Street serves as sub-administrator and custodian of the Portfolio.
The Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent.
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. is the transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent (the Transfer Agent).
The Distributor.
State Street Global Markets, LLC serves as the Funds distributor (SSGM or the Distributor) pursuant to the Distribution Agreement between SSGM and the Trust.
Additional Information.
The Trustees of the Trust oversee generally the operations of the Fund and the Trust. The Trust enters into contractual arrangements with various parties, including among others the Funds investment adviser, custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, who provide services to the Fund. Shareholders are not parties to any such contractual arrangements or intended beneficiaries of those contractual arrangements, and those contractual arrangements are not intended to create in any shareholder any right to enforce them directly against the service providers or to seek any remedy under them directly against the service providers.
This Prospectus provides information concerning the Trust and the Fund that you should consider in determining whether to purchase shares of the Fund. Neither this Prospectus, nor the related SAI, is intended, or should be read, to be or to give rise to an agreement or contract between the Trust or the Fund and any investor, or to give rise to any rights in any shareholder or other person other than any rights under federal or state law that may not be waived.
Determination of Net Asset Value
Until October 11, 2016, the ILR Fund determines its NAV per share once each business day at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) except for days when the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) closes earlier than its regular closing time, in which event the Fund will determine its NAV at the earlier closing time (the time when the Fund determines its NAV per share is referred to herein as the Valuation Time). Until October 11, 2016, the Fund seeks to maintain a $1.00 per share NAV and, accordingly, uses the amortized cost valuation method, in compliance with the risk limiting conditions of Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act, to value its portfolio instruments. The amortized cost valuation method initially prices an instrument at its cost and thereafter assumes a constant amortization to maturity of any discount or premium, regardless of the impact of fluctuating interest rates on the market value of the instrument.
Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will determine its NAV per share three times each business day at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET except for days when the NYSEs regular closing is prior to 3 p.m. ET, in which event the Fund will determine its final NAV for the day at the earlier closing time. Also effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will calculate its NAV to four decimal places.
Effective October 12, 2016, the NAV of each class of the Funds shares is calculated by dividing the value of the assets of the Fund attributable to that class less the liabilities of the Fund attributable to that class by the number of shares in the class outstanding. The Fund values each security or other investment pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board of Trustees. Securities or other investments may be valued at fair value, as determined in good faith and pursuant to procedures approved by the Portfolios Board of Trustees, under certain limited circumstances. For example, fair value pricing may be used when market quotations are not readily available or reliable, such as when (i) trading for a security is restricted; or (ii) a significant event, as determined by the Adviser, that may affect the value of one or more securities or other investments held by the Fund occurs after the close of a related exchange but before the determination of the Funds NAV. Attempts to determine the fair value of securities or other investments introduce an element of subjectivity to the pricing of securities or other investments. As a result, the price of a security or other investment
17
determined through fair valuation techniques may differ from the price quoted or published by other sources and may not accurately reflect the price a Fund would have received had it sold the investment. To the extent that the Fund invests in the shares of other registered open-end investment companies that are not traded on an exchange (mutual funds), such shares are valued at their published net asset values per share as reported by the funds. The prospectuses of these funds explain the circumstances under which the funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.
A business day is one on which the NYSE is open for regular trading. The Federal Reserve is closed on certain holidays on which the NYSE is open. These holidays are Columbus Day and Veterans Day. On these holidays, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because Federal Funds wiring does not occur on days when the Federal Reserve is closed. The Fund reserve the right to accept orders to purchase or redeem shares, or to continue to accept such orders following the close of the NYSE, on any day that is not a business day or any day on which the NYSE closes early, provided the Federal Reserve remains open. As noted in this Prospectus, the Fund may invest in securities listed on foreign exchanges, or otherwise traded in a foreign market, and those securities may trade on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares. Consequently, the NAV of the Funds shares may change on days when shareholders are not able to purchase or redeem the Funds shares. The Fund also may establish special hours on those days to determine the Funds NAV. In the event that the Fund invokes the right to accept orders to purchase or redeem shares on any day that is not a business day or adopt special hours of operation, the Fund will post advance notice of these events at www.ssga.com/cash.
If you hold shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary, your intermediary may offer additional services and account features that are not described in this Prospectus. Please contact your intermediary directly for an explanation of these services.
Investing in State Street Institutional Investment Trust Shares
Mutual funds advised by SSGA FM (the State Street Funds) and their service providers have a legal obligation to collect from you certain personal information about you at the time you open an account in order to verify your identity and the source of your payment. If you do not provide this information, you may not be able to open an account with the State Street Funds. If the State Street Funds believe that they have uncovered unlawful activity, the State Street Funds and their service providers may close your account and take any action they deem reasonable or required by law. The State Street Funds reserve the right to reject any purchase order.
This section of the Prospectus explains the basics of doing business with the State Street Funds. Carefully read each topic. The policies set forth below regarding the purchase, redemption and exchange of State Street Fund shares are in addition to the Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares section contained in the Fund Summary portion of this Prospectus. The State Street Funds reserve the right to change the following policies, without notice to shareholders; except that any modification or termination of the exchange privileges set forth herein will be preceded by 60 days advance notice to shareholders. Please call or check online for current information. Requests for transactions in the State Street Funds will be processed when they are received in good order. Good order means that the request is in an accurate and complete form, and all applicable documents have been received in such accurate and complete form (including typically, a signed application and medallion-guaranteed documents), and, for a purchase request, the check or wired funds have cleared.
Purchasing Shares
The Fund offers five classes of shares through this Prospectus: Institutional Class, Administration Class, Investment Class, Investor Class and Premier Class available to you subject to the eligibility requirements set forth below. All classes of the Fund share the same investment objective and investments, but the different share classes have different expense structures and eligibility requirements. You should choose the class with the expense structure that best meets your needs for which you are eligible. Some factors to consider are the amount you plan to invest, the time period before you expect to sell your shares, and whether you might invest more money in the Fund in the future. Your investment professional can help you choose the share class that best suits your investment needs.
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The chart below summarizes the features of the different share classes. This chart is only a general summary, and you should read the description of the Funds expenses in the Fund Summary in this Prospectus.
The minimum purchase amount may be waived by for specific investors or types of investors, including, without limitation, retirement plans, employees of State Street Corporation and its affiliates and their family.
Investors pay no sales load to invest in the shares of the Fund. The price for Fund Shares is the NAV per share. Purchase requests received by the Fund in good order (a purchase request is in good order if it meets the requirements implemented from time to time by the Transfer Agent or authorized agent of the Fund, and for new accounts includes submission of a completed and signed application and all documentation necessary to open an account) on a business day will, if payment is received by FedWire, be priced at the NAV next determined after the order is accepted by the Fund. Payments received by FedWire prior to the last Valuation Times (effective October 12, 2016, generally, 3:00 p.m. ET, unless the Fund closes earlier), will earn dividend accrual for that purchase. All purchases that are made by check will begin earning dividends the following business day after the day the order is accepted. (If you purchase shares by check, your order will not be in good form until the Transfer Agent receives federal funds for the check.) All purchase orders are subject to acceptance by the Fund. The Fund intends to be as fully invested as is practicable; therefore, investments must be made in Federal Funds (i.e., monies credited to the account of the Funds custodian bank by a Federal Reserve Bank).
The minimum initial investment in Institutional Class, Administration, Investment, Investor and Premier shares of the Fund is $25 million, $5 million, $25 million, $10 million and $500 million, respectively, although the Adviser may waive the minimum in its discretion. Holdings of related customer accounts may be aggregated for purposes of determining the minimum investment amount. Related customer accounts may include but are not limited to accounts held by the same investment or retirement plan, financial institution, broker, dealer or intermediary. The Fund and the Adviser reserve the right to increase or decrease the minimum amount required to open or maintain an account. There is no minimum subsequent investment, except in relation to maintaining certain minimum account balances (See Redeeming Shares below). The Fund requires prior notification of subsequent investments in excess of $50 million. The Fund reserves the right to cease accepting investments at any time or to reject any investment order.
Until October 11, 2016, the Fund may limit the amount of a purchase order received after 3:00 p.m. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will determine its NAV at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET. The 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. NAV calculation times are intended to facilitate same day settlement.
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How to Purchase Shares
By Mail:
An initial investment in the Fund must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Institutional Account Application Form, sent to:
State Street Funds P.O. Box 8048 Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048 |
By Overnight:
State Street Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809 |
By Telephone/Fax:
An initial investment in the Fund must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Institutional Account Application Form, faxed to (816) 218-0400. Call the Fund at (866) 392-0869 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. ET and 5:00 p.m. ET to:
Ø confirm receipt of the faxed Institutional Account Application Form (initial purchases only), Ø request your new account number (initial purchases only), Ø confirm the amount being wired and wiring bank, and Ø receive a confirmation number for your purchase order (your trade is not effective until you have received a confirmation number from the Fund).
For your initial investment, send the original, signed Institutional Account Application Form to the address above. |
Wire Instructions:
Instruct your bank to transfer money by Federal Funds wire to:
State Street Bank and Trust Company 1 Iron Street Boston, MA 02110
ABA# 011000028 DDA# 9904-631-0 State Street Institutional Investment Trust Fund Name Class Name Account Number Account Registration
On Columbus Day and Veterans Day, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because the Federal Funds wiring does not occur on those days. Payment for Fund Shares must be in Federal Funds (or converted to Federal Funds by the Transfer Agent) by the close of the Federal Reserve.
You will not be able to redeem shares from the account until the original Application has been received. The Fund and the Funds agents are not responsible for transfer errors by the sending or receiving bank and will not be liable for any loss incurred due to a wire transfer not having been received. |
Automatic Investment Plan. An Automatic Investment Plan is available for all operational State Street Funds that offer the Administration Class shares. Once an initial investment has been accepted, you may elect to make automatic subsequent investments of $100 or more on a periodic basis (i.e., monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually) by authorizing the Fund to debit your bank checking or savings account. Once this option has been established, you may call the State Street Funds to make additional automatic purchases, to change the amount of the existing automatic purchase, or to discontinue the service. The Fund reserves the right to cancel your Automatic Investment Plan if any correspondence sent by the Fund to your address of record is returned by the postal service or other delivery service as undeliverable. Ask your financial adviser or financial intermediary for details.
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Redeeming Shares
An investor may redeem all or any portion of its investment. Redemption orders are processed at the NAV next determined after the Fund receives a redemption order in good form. If the Fund receives a redemption order in good form prior to its Valuation Time on a business day, shares are redeemed and the Fund typically sends payment for redeemed shares on that day, but no later than next business day (unless redemption proceed are sent by check or ACH). If a full redemption order is requested, no dividends will accrue with respect to shares on the day the redemption proceeds are sent. If a redemption order is placed after the last Valuation Time (effective October 12, 2016, generally, 3:00 p.m. ET, unless the Fund closes earlier) the redemption proceeds for the shares will be sent next business day (and dividends will accrue up to, but not including, the day that redemption proceeds are sent).
Certain special limitations affecting redemptions. The SEC has implemented a number of requirements, including liquidity fees and redemption gates, for money market funds based on the amount of fund assets in weekly liquid assets, which generally includes cash, direct obligations of the U.S. government, certain other U.S. government or agency securities, and securities that will mature or are subject to a demand feature that is exercisable and payable within five business days. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will pass through to its investors any liquidity fee or suspension of redemptions imposed by the Portfolio on the same terms and conditions as imposed by the Portfolio on the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, if the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 30% of its total assets and the Portfolios Board of Trustees determines it is in the best interests of the Portfolio, the Portfolio may immediately impose a liquidity fee of no more than 2% and/or temporarily suspend redemptions for up to 10 business days in any 90 day period. If the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of its total assets at the end of any business day, the Portfolio will impose a liquidity fee of 1% on all redemptions beginning on the next business day, unless the Portfolios Board determines that imposing such a fee would not be in the best interests of the Portfolio or determines that a lower or higher fee (not to exceed 2%) would be in the best interests of the Portfolio, which would remain in effect until weekly liquid assets return to 30% or the Portfolios Board determines that the fee is no longer in the best interests of the Portfolio. All liquidity fees payable by the Fund will be passed through to its investors, would be payable to the Portfolio and could offset any losses realized by the Portfolio when seeking to honor redemption requests. If liquidity fees are imposed or redemptions are suspended by the Portfolio, the Fund will notify shareholders on the Funds website. The Fund expects to treat such liquidity fees paid to the Portfolio as reducing proceeds paid to shareholders in redemption of Fund shares, and not constituting income to the Portfolio. There may be circumstances under which the Fund may impose its own liquidity fees and/or suspend redemptions based on the level of the Funds own weekly liquid assets, in which case the Fund will also provide notice to shareholders.
If the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of its assets on a business day, the Portfolio may cease honoring redemptions and liquidate in the discretion of the Portfolios Board. If the Fund is notified that its Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of the Portfolios assets and the Portfolio has suspended redemptions and intends to liquidate, the Fund may also do so in the discretion of the Funds Board. There may be circumstances under which the Fund may cease honoring redemptions and liquidate in the discretion of its Board based on the level of the Funds own weekly liquid assets. If the Fund ceases honoring redemptions and determines to liquidate, the Fund expects that it would notify shareholders on the Funds website. Distributions to shareholders of liquidation proceeds may occur in one or more disbursements.
The right of any investor to receive payment with respect to any redemption may be suspended or the payment of the redemption proceeds postponed during any period in which the NYSE is closed (other than weekends or holidays) or trading on the NYSE is restricted or, to the extent otherwise permitted by the 1940 Act, if an emergency exists as a result of which disposal by the Fund of securities owned by it is not reasonably practicable or it is not reasonably practicable for the Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets. In addition, the SEC may by order permit suspension of redemptions for the protection of shareholders of the Fund.
A request for a partial redemption by an investor whose account balance is below the minimum amount or a request for partial redemption by an investor that would bring the account below the minimum amount may be treated as a request for a complete redemption of the account. These minimums may be different for investments made through certain financial intermediaries as determined by their policies and may be waived in the Advisers discretion. The Fund reserves the right to modify minimum account requirements at any time with or without prior notice. The Fund also reserves the right to involuntarily redeem an investors account if the investors account balance falls below the applicable minimum amount due to transaction activity.
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How to Redeem Shares
By Mail: |
Send a signed letter to: State Street Institutional Investment Trust Funds P.O. Box 8048 Boston, MA 02205-8048
The letter should include information necessary to process your request as described below. The Fund may require a medallion guarantee in certain circumstances. See Medallion Guarantees below. |
|
By Overnight: |
State Street Institutional Investment Trust Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809 |
|
By Telephone: | Please call (866) 392-0869 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET. | |
The Fund will need the following information to process your redemption request: Ø name(s) of account owners; Ø account number(s); Ø the name of the Fund; Ø your daytime telephone number; and Ø the dollar amount or number of shares being redeemed. |
On any day that the Fund calculates its NAVs earlier than normal, the Fund reserves the right to adjust the times noted above for purchasing and redeeming shares.
By Intermediary. If you wish to purchase or redeem Fund Shares through a broker, bank or other financial intermediary (Intermediary), please contact that Intermediary directly. Your Financial Intermediary may have different or additional requirements for opening an account and/or for the processing of purchase and redemption orders, or may be closed at times when the Fund is open. Intermediaries may contact the Boston Financial Data Services Group at (877) 332-6207 or email them at nsccresearch@bostonfinancial.com with questions.
Automatic Withdrawal Plan. An Automatic Withdrawal Plan is available for all operational State Street Funds that offer the Administration Class shares, except for the State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund. If your account balance is over $10,000, you may request periodic (i.e., monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually) automatic cash withdrawals on any business day of $100 or more which can be mailed to you, or any person or entity, you designate or sent through Automated Clearing House (ACH) to your designated bank account. Proceeds from such withdrawals will be transmitted to your designated bank account two business days after the redemption of shares occurs. No interest will accrue on the amounts represented by the uncashed redemption check(s). Ask your financial adviser or financial intermediary for details.
Medallion Guarantees. Certain redemption requests must include a medallion guarantee for each registered account owner if any of the following apply:
Ø |
Your account address has changed within the last 10 business days. |
Ø |
Redemption proceeds are being transferred to an account with a different registration. |
Ø |
A wire is being sent to a financial institution other than the one that has been established on your Fund account. |
Ø |
Other unusual situations as determined by the Transfer Agent. |
Until October 11, 2016, all redemption requests regarding shares of the Fund placed after 4:00 p.m. ET may only be placed by telephone or pre-established other means such as a transmission and the Fund reserves the right to postpone payments for redemption requests received after 4:00 p.m. ET until the next business day.
Effective October 12, 2016, same day settlement of redemption proceeds will only be available for redemption requests accepted prior to the Funds last Valuation Time of the day (generally, 3:00 p.m. ET unless the Fund closes earlier).
The Fund reserves the right to waive medallion guarantee requirements, require a medallion guarantee under other circumstances or reject or delay redemption if the medallion guarantee is not in good form. Medallion guarantees may be provided by an eligible
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financial institution such as a commercial bank, a FINRA member firm such as a stock broker, a savings association or a national securities exchange. A notary public cannot provide a medallion guarantee. The Fund reserves the right to reject a medallion guarantee if it is not provided by a STAMP Medallion guarantor.
About Telephone Transactions. Telephone transactions are convenient but are not free from risk. Neither the Fund nor the Funds agents will be responsible for any losses resulting from unauthorized telephone transactions if reasonable security procedures are followed. In addition, you are responsible for: (i) verifying the accuracy of all data and information transmitted by telephone, (ii) verifying the accuracy of your account statements immediately upon receipt, and (iii) promptly notifying the Fund of any errors or inaccuracies including, without limitation, any errors or inaccuracies relating to shareholder data or information transmitted by telephone. During periods of heavy market activity or other times, it may be difficult to reach the Fund by telephone. If you are unable to reach us by telephone, consider sending written instructions.
The Fund may terminate the receipt of redemption orders by telephone at any time, in which case you may redeem shares by other means.
If you choose to purchase or redeem shares by sending instructions by regular mail, they will not be deemed received in good order until they are released by the post office and redelivered to the Transfer Agents physical location at 30 Dan Road in Canton, MA 02021. There will be a time lag, which may be one or more days, between regular mail receipt at the Boston post office box and redelivery to such physical location in Canton, and the Funds NAV may change over those days. You might consider using express rather than regular mail if you believe the time of receipt of your transaction request to be sensitive.
Exchanging Shares
An exchange occurs when you use the proceeds from the redemption of shares of a Fund in the State Street Institutional Investment Trust to simultaneously purchase shares of a different Fund in the State Street Institutional Investment Trust. Currently, exchanging shares is allowed from/to the ILR Fund, State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund, and State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund. Effective October 12, 2016, exchanges from/to the ILR Fund is not permitted. Exchanges may be made within the same class (i.e. Institutional Class shares for Institutional Class shares; Investor Class shares for Investor Class shares). The account holding the original shares must be registered in the same name as the account holding the new shares received in the exchange. You may make exchange requests by telephone, or by mail. See Purchasing Shares and Redeeming Shares. Exchanges are subject to the terms applicable to the purchases of the fund into which you are exchanging. Exchange privileges may not be available for mutual funds advised by SSGA FM (the State Street Funds) and may be suspended or rejected.
Excessive Trading. Because the Fund is a money market fund, the Funds Board of Trustees has not adopted policies and procedures with respect to frequent purchases and redemptions of Fund shares by Fund shareholders. Nonetheless, the Fund may take any reasonable action that they deem necessary or appropriate to prevent excessive trading in Fund shares without providing prior notification to the account holder. Such action may include rejecting any purchase, in whole or part, including, without limitation, by a person whose trading activity in Fund shares may be deemed harmful to the Fund. While the Fund attempts to discourage such excessive trading, there can be no guarantee that they will be able to identify investors who are engaging in excessive trading or limit their trading practices. Additionally, frequent trades of small amounts may not be detected. The Fund recognizes that they may not always be able to detect or prevent excessive trading or other activity that may disadvantage the Fund or its shareholders.
DISTRIBUTION ARRANGEMENTS AND RULE 12B-1 FEES
The Fund has adopted a distribution plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act under which the Fund may compensate the Distributor (or others) for services in connection with the distribution of the Funds shares and for services provided to Fund shareholders (the Plan). The Plan calls for payments at an annual rate (based on average daily net assets) of 0.05% and 0.10% of the Funds net assets attributable to its Administration Class shares and Investment Class shares, respectively. Because these fees are paid out of the assets of the Fund attributable to its shares on an ongoing basis, they will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more over time than paying other types of sales charges. Long-term shareholders of the Fund may pay more in Rule 12b-1 fees than the economic equivalent of the maximum front-end sales charge permitted by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (FINRA).
In addition to payments under the Plan, the Fund may reimburse the Distributor or its affiliates for payments it makes to financial intermediaries that provide certain administrative, recordkeeping, and account maintenance services, including services described below under Other Payments to Financial Intermediaries. The amount of the reimbursement and the manner in which it is calculated are reviewed by the Trustees periodically.
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Because the Fund pays distribution and other fees for the sale of their shares and for services provided to shareholders out of the Funds assets on an ongoing basis, over time those fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales loads. The Fund may pay distribution fees and other amounts described in this Prospectus at a time when shares of that Fund are unavailable for purchase.
OTHER PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
Financial Intermediaries are firms that sell shares of mutual funds, including the Fund, for compensation and/or provide certain administrative and account maintenance services to mutual fund investors. Financial Intermediaries may include, among others, brokers, financial planners or advisers, banks, and insurance companies.
In some cases, a Financial Intermediary may hold its clients Fund Shares in nominee or street name. Shareholder services provided by a Financial Intermediary may (though they will not necessarily) include, among other things: processing and mailing trade confirmations, periodic statements, prospectuses, annual reports, semiannual reports, shareholder notices, and other SEC-required communications; capturing and processing tax data; issuing and mailing dividend checks to shareholders who have selected cash distributions; preparing record date shareholder lists for proxy solicitations; collecting and posting distributions to shareholder accounts; and establishing and maintaining systematic withdrawals and automated investment plans and shareholder account registrations.
The compensation paid by the Distributor or its affiliates to a Financial Intermediary is typically paid continually over time, during the period when the Financial Intermediarys clients hold investments in the Fund. The amount of continuing compensation paid by the Distributor or its affiliates to different Financial Intermediaries for distribution and/or shareholder services varies. The compensation is typically a percentage of the value of the Financial Intermediarys clients investments in the Fund or a per account fee. The variation in compensation may, but will not necessarily, reflect enhanced or additional services provided by the Financial Intermediary.
SSGM and its affiliates (including SSGA FM), at their own expense and out of their own assets, may also provide other compensation to Financial Intermediaries in connection with sales of the Funds shares or the servicing of shareholders or shareholder accounts. Such compensation may include, but is not limited to, financial assistance to Financial Intermediaries in connection with conferences, sales, or training programs for their employees; seminars for the public; advertising or sales campaigns; or other Financial Intermediary-sponsored special events. In some instances, this compensation may be made available only to certain Financial Intermediaries whose representatives have sold or are expected to sell significant amounts of shares. Dealers may not use sales of the Funds shares to qualify for this compensation to the extent prohibited by the laws or rules of any state or any self-regulatory agency, such as the FINRA.
If payments to Financial Intermediaries by the distributor or adviser for a particular mutual fund complex exceed payments by other mutual fund complexes, your financial adviser and the Financial Intermediary employing him or her may have an incentive to recommend that fund complex over others. Please speak with your financial adviser to learn more about the total amounts paid to your financial adviser and his or her firm by the Distributor and its affiliates and by sponsors of other mutual funds he or she may recommend to you. You should also consult disclosures made by your Financial Intermediary at the time of purchase.
Third-Party Transactions. The State Street Funds have authorized certain Financial Intermediaries to accept purchase, redemption and exchange orders on the State Street Funds behalf. The Financial Intermediary is responsible for transmitting your purchase request and funds in good form and in a timely manner to the applicable State Street Fund(s). The State Street Funds will not be responsible for delays by the Financial Intermediary in transmitting your purchase request, including timely transfer of payment, to the Fund. Therefore, orders received for a State Street Fund by a Financial Intermediary that has been authorized to accept orders on the Funds behalf (or other Financial Intermediaries designated by the Financial Intermediary) prior to the time the Funds share price is determined will be deemed accepted by the Fund the same day and will be executed at that days closing share price.
If you are purchasing, selling, exchanging or holding State Street Fund shares through a program of services offered by a Financial Intermediary, you may be required by the Financial Intermediary to pay additional fees. You should contact the Financial Intermediary for information concerning what additional fees, if any, may be charged.
Delivery of Documents to Accounts Sharing an Address. To reduce expenses, we may mail only one copy of the Funds Prospectus and annual and semi-annual report to those addresses shared by two or more accounts. If you wish to receive individual copies of these documents, please call us at (877) 521-4083, or contact your financial institution. We will begin sending you individual copies thirty (30) days after receiving your request.
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DIVIDENDS, DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The Fund intends to declare dividends on shares from net investment income daily and pay them as of the last business day of each month. Distributions from capital gains, if any, will be made annually in December. Income dividends and capital gains distributions will be paid in additional shares on the reinvestment date unless you have elected to receive them in cash. No interest will accrue on the amounts represented by uncashed distribution checks. If you have elected to receive distributions by check, and the postal or other delivery service is unable to deliver the checks because of an incorrect mailing address, or if a distribution check remains uncashed for six months, the uncashed distribution and all future distribution elections will be reinvested at the then-current NAV of the Fund.
The following discussion is a summary of some important U.S. federal tax considerations generally applicable to an investment in the Fund. Your investment in the Fund may have other tax implications. Please consult your tax advisor about federal, state, local, foreign or other tax laws applicable to you. Investors, including non-U.S. investors, may wish to consult the SAI tax section for additional disclosure.
The Fund invests substantially all of its investible assets in a Portfolio that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The nature and character of the Funds income, gains, losses and deductions generally will be determined at the Portfolio level, and the Fund will be allocated its share of the Portfolios income, gains, losses and deductions. As applicable, references in this discussion to income, gains and losses of the Fund will be to income, gains and losses recognized and deductions accruing at the Portfolio level and allocated to or otherwise taken into account by the Fund, and references to assets of the Fund will be to the Funds allocable share of the assets of the Portfolio.
The Fund has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company and intends each year to qualify and to be eligible to be treated as such. A regulated investment company generally is not subject to tax at the corporate level on income and gains that are timely distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify and be eligible for treatment as a regulated investment company, the Fund must, among other things, satisfy diversification, 90% gross income and distribution requirements. The Funds failure to qualify as a regulated investment company would result in corporate level taxation, and consequently, a reduction in income available for distribution to shareholders.
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, distributions of investment income are generally taxable to you as ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains generally are determined by how long the Portfolio owned the investments that generated them, rather than how long you have owned your Fund Shares. Any net short-term gains the Fund distributes will be taxable to you as ordinary income. The Fund generally does not expect to make distributions that are eligible for taxation as long-term capital gains. Distributions are taxable whether you receive them in cash or reinvest them in additional shares.
When the NAV of Fund Shares varies from $1.00 per share, shareholders will realize a gain or loss upon the sale, exchange or redemption of such Fund Shares. Any gains resulting from the redemption of Fund Shares will generally be taxable to you as either short-term or long-term capital gain, depending upon how long you have held such Fund Shares.
The IRS has issued final regulations and published guidance that permit a simplified method of accounting for gains and losses realized upon the disposition of money market fund shares. Shareholders should see the SAI for further information.
A 3.8% Medicare contribution tax is imposed on the net investment income of individuals, estates and trusts to the extent their income exceeds certain threshold amounts. Net investment income generally includes for this purpose dividends paid by the Fund, including any capital gain dividends, and net gains recognized on the redemption of shares of the Fund.
If you are not a U.S. person, dividends paid by the Fund that the Fund properly reports as capital gain dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, or interest-related dividends, each as further defined in the SAI, are not subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax, provided that certain other requirements are met. The Fund is permitted, but is not required, to report any part of its dividends as are eligible for such treatment. The Funds dividends other than those the Fund so reports as capital gain dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, or interest-related dividends generally will be subject to a U.S. withholding tax at the 30% rate (or lower applicable treaty rate). See the Funds SAI for further information.
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The financial highlight tables are intended to help you understand the Funds financial performance for the past five fiscal years. Certain information reflects the performance results for a single Fund Share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, the Trusts independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the Funds financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the annual report to shareholders, which is available upon request. The financial information included in these tables should be read in conjunction with the financial statements incorporated by reference in the SAI.
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State Street Institutional Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Financial Highlights
Selected data for a share of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each year is presented below (a) :
Period Ended December 31, |
Net Asset
Value Beginning of Period |
Net
Investment Income/(Loss) |
Gain
(Loss) on Investments |
Total from
Investment Operations |
Distributions
from Net Investment Income |
Distributions
from Capital Gains |
Total
Distributions |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Premier Class |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0012 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0012 | $ | (0.0012 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.0012 | ) | |||||||||||
2014 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0008 | $ | (0.0001 | ) | $ | 0.0007 | $ | (0.0007 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.0007 | ) | |||||||||||
2013 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0010 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0010 | $ | (0.0010 | ) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0010 | ) | ||||||||||
2012 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0020 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0020 | $ | (0.0020 | ) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0020 | ) | ||||||||||
2011 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0015 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0015 | $ | (0.0015 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.0015 | ) | |||||||||||
Investment Class |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | | $ | | $ | | |||||||||||
2014 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | | $ | | $ | | |||||||||||
2013 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | ||||||||
2012 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | ||||||||
2011 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | | $ | | $ | |
(a) |
The per share amounts and percentages include the Funds proportionate share of income and expenses of the corresponding Portfolio. |
(b) |
Total return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares at net asset value on the first day and a sale at net asset value on the last day of each period reported. Distributions are assumed, for the purpose of this calculation, to be reinvested at net asset value per share on the respective payment dates. Total return for periods of less than one year are not annualized. Results represent past performance and are not indicative of future results. |
(c) |
This expense waiver is reflected in both the net operating expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Without these waivers, net investment income would have been lower. |
(d) |
Amount is less than $0.00005 per share. |
(e) |
Amount is less than 0.005%. |
28
State Street Institutional Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Financial Highlights
Net Asset
Value End of Period |
Ratios to Average Net Assets/Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Period Ended December 31, |
Total
Return (b) |
Gross
Expenses |
Net
Expenses |
Net
Investment Income |
Expense
Waiver (c) |
Net Assets
End of Year (000s omitted) |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Premier Class |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | | $ | 45,207,442 | |||||||||||||||
2014 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.07 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.07 | % | | $ | 37,932,781 | |||||||||||||||
2013 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.10 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.10 | % | | $ | 29,850,029 | |||||||||||||||
2012 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.20 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.20 | % | | $ | 24,408,802 | |||||||||||||||
2011 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.15 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.15 | % | | $ | 19,597,264 | |||||||||||||||
Investment Class |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.47 | % | 0.24 | % | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.23 | % | $ | 485,292 | ||||||||||||||
2014 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.47 | % | 0.19 | % | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.28 | % | $ | 726,910 | ||||||||||||||
2013 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.47 | % | 0.22 | % | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.25 | % | $ | 1,013,152 | ||||||||||||||
2012 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.47 | % | 0.32 | % | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.15 | % | $ | 961,168 | ||||||||||||||
2011 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.46 | % | 0.27 | % | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.19 | % | $ | 992,736 |
29
Contacting the State Street Funds
Online: |
www.ssga.com/cash | 24 hours a day, 7 days a week | ||
Phone: |
(877) 521-4083 | Monday Friday 8 am 5 pm EST |
Written requests should be sent to:
Regular mail |
Registered, Express, Certified Mail | |
State Street Funds P.O. Box 8317 Boston, MA 02266-8317 |
State Street Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, MA 02021 |
The Fund does not consider the U.S. Postal Service or other independent delivery services to be their agents. Therefore, deposits in the mail or with such services, or receipt at the Funds post office box, of purchase orders or redemption requests, do not constitute receipt by the Funds or Transfer Agent.
30
For more information about the Fund:
The Funds SAI includes additional information about the Fund and is incorporated by reference into this document. Additional information about the Funds investments is available, or will be available, in the Funds most recent annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. The Funds SAI is available, without charge, upon request. The Funds annual and semi-annual reports are available, or will be available, without charge, upon request. Shareholders in the Fund may make inquiries to the Fund to receive such information by calling (877) 521-4083 or the customer service center at the telephone number shown in the accompanying contract prospectus, if applicable. The Funds Prospectus and SAI are available, and the annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders are available, or will be available, free of charge, on the Funds website at www.ssga.com/cash.
Information about the Fund (including the SAI) can be reviewed and copied at the SECs Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-202-551-8090. Reports and other information about the operational Funds are available free of charge on the EDGAR Database on the SECs Internet site at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of this information also may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following E-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov, or by writing the SECs Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520.
SSGA Funds Management, Inc .
STATE STREET FINANCIAL CENTER
ONE LINCOLN STREET
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02111
SSITILRCBSTATPRO |
The State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Investment Company Act File Number is 811-09819. |
Prospectus
Dated August 26, 2016
State Street Institutional
Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Service Class (LRSXX)
The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus.
Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
An investment in the Fund offered by this Prospectus is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.
The Fund may offer multiple classes of shares. This Prospectus covers only the Service Class Shares of the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund is a floating net asset value money market fund. The share price of this Fund will fluctuate beginning on that date.
None of State Street Corporation, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Global Advisors, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. or their affiliates (State Street Entities) guarantee the value of your investment at $1.00 per share. Investors should have no expectation of capital support to the Fund from State Street Entities.
1 | ||
1 | ||
Additional Information About Investment Objectives, Principal Strategies and Risks |
7 | |
Additional Information About Non-Principal Investment Strategies and Risks |
13 | |
14 | ||
15 | ||
16 | ||
21 | ||
21 | ||
22 | ||
24 |
Investment Objective
The investment objective of State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund (the ILR Fund or sometimes referred to in context as the Fund) is to seek to maximize current income, to the extent consistent with the preservation of capital and liquidity, by investing in U.S. dollar-denominated money market securities.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the ILR Fund (Fund Shares). The expenses shown in the table and the Example reflect the expenses of the Fund and the Funds proportionate share of the expenses of the State Street Money Market Portfolio (the Money Market Portfolio or sometimes referred to in context as the Portfolio).
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price) |
None | |||
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of the lower of the sale proceeds or the original offering price) |
None |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Management Fee |
0.05 | % | ||
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees |
0.05 | % | ||
Other Expenses 1 |
0.07 | % | ||
|
|
|||
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses 2 |
0.17 | % | ||
|
|
1 |
Other expenses are based on estimates for the current fiscal year. |
2 |
The Funds investment adviser, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the Adviser or SSGA FM), may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid a negative yield (the Voluntary Reduction), or a yield below a specified level, which may vary from time to time in the Advisers sole discretion. The Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2012. As of December 31, 2015, the Adviser had not waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses under the Voluntary Reduction. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund. Any future reimbursement by the Fund of the Voluntary Reduction would increase the Funds expenses and reduce the Funds yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. |
Example:
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated, and then sell all of your Fund Shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 year |
3 years |
5 years |
10 years |
|||
$17 |
$55 | $96 | $217 |
Principal Investment Strategies
The ILR Fund follows a disciplined investment process in which SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (SSGA FM or the Adviser), the investment adviser to the Fund, bases its decisions on the relative attractiveness of different money market instruments. In the Advisers opinion, the attractiveness of an instrument may vary depending on the general level of interest rates, as well as imbalances of supply and demand in the market. The Fund invests in accordance with regulatory requirements applicable to money market funds, which require, among other things, the Fund to invest only in short-term, high quality debt obligations (generally, securities that have remaining maturities of 397 calendar days or less and either have been rated in one of the two highest short-term rating categories or are considered by the Fund to be of comparable quality), to maintain a maximum dollar-weighted average maturity of sixty (60) days or less, and to meet requirements as to portfolio diversification and liquidity. The Fund currently seeks to maintain a stable net asset value (NAV) per share of $1.00 by valuing its portfolio securities using amortized cost. Effective
1
October 12, 2016, the Fund will continue to be a money market fund and the NAV of the Funds shares will float, fluctuating with changes in the values of the Funds portfolio securities. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will typically accept purchase and redemption orders multiple times per day, and calculate its NAV at each such time.
The Fund attempts to meet its investment objective by investing in a broad range of money market instruments. These may include among other things: U.S. government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds and other securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest, as applicable, by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposits and time deposits of U.S. and foreign banks (including ECDs, ETDs and YCDs (as defined below); commercial paper and other high quality obligations of U.S. or foreign companies; asset-backed securities, including asset-backed commercial paper; mortgage-related securities; and repurchase agreements. These instruments may bear fixed, variable or floating rates of interest or may be zero-coupon securities. The Fund also may invest in shares of other money market funds, including funds advised by the Adviser. Under normal market conditions, the Fund intends to invest more than 25% of its total assets in bank obligations. A substantial portion of the Fund may be invested in securities that are issued or traded pursuant to exemptions from registration under the federal securities laws.
European Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by a bank outside of the United States. European Time Deposits (ETDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks. Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. These instruments have different risks than those associated with the obligations of U.S. banks operating in the United States.
The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Money Market Portfolio, which has substantially similar investment policies to the Fund. When the Fund invests in this master-feeder structure, the Funds only investments are shares of the Portfolio, and it participates in the investment returns achieved by the Portfolio. Descriptions in this section of the investment activities of the Fund also generally describe the expected investment activities of the Portfolio.
Principal Risks
You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or any other government agency . Although the Fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, the paragraph above is replaced by the paragraph below:
You could lose money by investing in the Fund. Under new requirements for money market funds, beginning October 12, 2016, the Fund will no longer buy and sell its shares at a fixed NAV per share, but will instead buy and sell its shares using a floating NAV reflecting the current market-based values of its portfolio holdings. Because the share price of the Fund will fluctuate, when you sell your shares they may be worth more or less than what you originally paid for them. The Fund may impose a fee upon the sale of your shares or may temporarily suspend your ability to sell shares if the Funds liquidity falls below required minimums because of market conditions or other factors. An investment in the Fund is subject to investment risks, including possible loss of principal, is not a deposit in a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The Funds sponsor has no legal obligation to provide financial support to the Fund, and you should not expect that the sponsor will provide financial support to the Fund at any time.
General risks associated with the Funds and the Portfolios investment policies and investment strategies are discussed below.
Counterparty Risk: The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties with which the Fund enters into repurchase agreements and other transactions. If a counterparty fails to meet its contractual obligations, the Fund may be unable to terminate the transaction, and it may be delayed or prevented from realizing on any collateral in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding relating to the counterparty.
Debt Securities Risk: The values of debt securities may increase or decrease as a result of the following: market fluctuations, increases in interest rates, actual or perceived inability or unwillingness of issuers, guarantors or liquidity providers to make scheduled principal or interest payments or illiquidity in debt securities markets; the risk of low rates of return due to reinvestment of securities during periods of falling interest rates or repayment by issuers with higher coupon or interest rates; and/or the risk of low income due to falling interest rates. To the extent that interest rates rise, certain underlying obligations may be paid off substantially slower than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. A rising interest rate environment may cause the value of the Funds fixed income securities to decrease, an adverse impact on the liquidity of the Funds fixed
2
income securities, and increased volatility of the fixed income markets. If the principal on a debt obligation is prepaid before expected, the prepayments of principal may have to be reinvested in obligations paying interest at lower rates. During periods of falling interest rates, the income received by the Fund may decline. Changes in interest rates will likely have a greater effect on the values of debt securities of longer durations. Returns on investments in debt securities could trail the returns on other investment options, including investments in equity securities.
Financial Institutions Risk: Changes in the creditworthiness of financial institutions (such as banks and broker-dealers) may adversely affect the values of instruments of issuers in financial industries. Adverse developments in banking and other financial industries may cause the Fund to underperform relative to other funds that invest more broadly across different industries or have a smaller exposure to financial institutions. Changes in governmental regulation and oversight of financial institutions may have an adverse effect on the financial condition of a financial institution.
Income Risk: The Funds income may decline due to falling interest rates or other factors. Issuers of securities held by the Fund may call or redeem the securities during periods of falling interest rates, and the Fund would likely be required to reinvest in securities paying lower interest rates. If an obligation held by the Fund is prepaid, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayment in other obligations paying income at lower rates.
Large Shareholder Risk: To the extent a large proportion of the interests of the Portfolio are held by a small number of investors (or a single investor), including funds or accounts over which the Adviser has investment discretion, the Portfolio is subject to the risk that these investors will purchase or redeem Portfolio interests in large amounts rapidly or unexpectedly, including as a result of an asset allocation decision made by the Adviser. These transactions could adversely affect the ability of the Portfolio to conduct its investment program.
Liquidity Risk: Lack of a ready market or restrictions on resale may limit the ability of the Fund to sell a security at an advantageous time or price or at all. Illiquid securities may trade at a discount from comparable, more liquid investments and may be subject to wide fluctuations in market value. Illiquidity of the Funds holdings may limit the ability of the Fund to obtain cash to meet redemptions on a timely basis. In addition, the Fund, due to limitations on investments in any illiquid securities and/or the difficulty in purchasing and selling such investments, may be unable to achieve its desired level of exposure to a certain market or sector.
Low Short-Term Interest Rates: At the date of this Prospectus, short-term interest rates are at historically low levels, and so the Funds yield is very low. It is possible that the Fund will generate an insufficient amount of income to pay its expenses, and that it will not be able to pay a daily dividend and may have a negative yield (i.e., it may lose money on an operating basis). It is possible that the Fund will maintain a substantial portion of its assets in cash, on which it would earn little, if any, income.
Market Risk: The Funds investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, and general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities markets. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors including, but not limited to, economic growth or recession, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived creditworthiness of issuers, and general market liquidity. The Fund is subject to the risk that geopolitical events will disrupt securities markets and adversely affect global economies and markets.
Master/Feeder Structure Risk: The Fund pursues its objective by investing substantially all of its assets in another pooled investment vehicle (a master fund). The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the ability of the master fund to meet its investment objective. The Adviser serves as investment adviser to the master fund, leading to potential conflicts of interest. The Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the expenses incurred by the master fund. Substantial redemptions by other investors in a master fund may affect the master funds investment program adversely and limit the ability of the master fund to achieve its objective.
Money Market Fund Regulatory Risk: In July 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted regulatory changes that will affect the structure and operation of money market funds. The revised regulations impose new liquidity requirements on money market funds, permit (and in some cases require) money market funds to impose liquidity fees on redemptions, and permit money market funds to impose gates restricting redemptions from the funds. Institutional money market funds will be required to have a floating NAV. (U.S. government money market funds are exempt from a number of the new regulations.) There are a number of other changes under the revised regulations that relate to diversification, disclosure, reporting and stress testing requirements. These changes and other proposed amendments to the regulations governing money market funds could significantly affect the money market fund industry generally and the operation or performance of the Fund specifically and may have significant adverse effects on a money market funds investment return and on the liquidity of investments in money market funds.
3
Money Market Risk: An investment in a money market fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Although a money market fund generally seeks to preserve the value of its shares at $1.00 per share, there can be no assurance that it will do so, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund. A major or unexpected increase in interest rates or a decline in the credit quality of an issuer or entity providing credit support, an inactive trading market for money market instruments, or adverse market, economic, industry, political, regulatory, geopolitical, and other conditions could cause a money market funds share price to fall below $1.00. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will not maintain a constant net asset value per share. Beginning at that time, the value of the Funds shares will be calculated to four decimal places and will vary reflecting the value of the portfolio of investments held by the Fund. It is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.
Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk: Investments in mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to the risk of significant credit downgrades, illiquidity, and defaults to a greater extent than many other types of fixed-income investments. During periods of falling interest rates, mortgage- and asset-backed securities may be called or prepaid, which may result in the Fund having to reinvest proceeds in other investments at a lower interest rate. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of mortgage- and asset-backed securities may extend, which may lock in a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and interest rate sensitivity, and reduce the value of the security. Enforcing rights against the underlying assets or collateral may be difficult, and the underlying assets or collateral may be insufficient if the issuer defaults.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk: Non-U.S. securities (including depositary receipts) are subject to political, regulatory, and economic risks not present in domestic investments. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. entity than about a U.S. entity, and many non-U.S. entities are not subject to accounting, auditing, legal and financial report standards comparable to those in the United States. Further, such entities and/or their securities may be subject to risks associated with currency controls; expropriation; changes in tax policy; greater market volatility; differing securities market structures; higher transaction costs; and various administrative difficulties, such as delays in clearing and settling portfolio transactions or in receiving payment of dividends. Securities traded on foreign markets may be less liquid (harder to sell) than securities traded domestically. Foreign governments may impose restrictions on the repatriation of capital to the U.S. In addition, to the extent investments are made in a limited number of countries, events in those countries will have a more significant impact on the Fund. Investments in depositary receipts may be less liquid and more volatile than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.
Rapid Changes in Interest Rates Risk: Rapid changes in interest rates may cause significant requests to redeem Fund Shares, and possibly cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities at a loss to satisfy those requests.
Repurchase Agreement Risk: Repurchase agreements may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. If the Funds counterparty should default on its obligations and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the collateral, or if the value of the collateral is insufficient, the Fund may realize a loss.
U.S. Government Securities Risk: Certain U.S. Government securities are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States; others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agencys obligations; and still others are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency, instrumentality, or enterprise. Although U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) may be chartered or sponsored by Congress, they are not funded by Congressional appropriations, and their securities are not issued by the U.S. Treasury, are not supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, and involve increased credit risks.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities Risk: During periods of increasing interest rates, changes in the coupon rates of variable or floating rate securities may lag behind the changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in coupon rates. Alternatively, during periods of declining interest rates, the coupon rates on such securities will typically readjust downward resulting in a lower yield. In addition, investment in derivative variable rate securities, such as inverse floaters, whose rates vary inversely with market rates of interest, or range floaters or capped floaters, whose rates are subject to periodic or lifetime caps, or in securities that pay a rate of interest determined by applying a multiple to the variable rate involves special risks as compared to investment in a fixed-rate security and may involve leverage.
Zero Coupon Bond Risk: Zero-coupon bonds usually trade at a deep discount from their face or par values and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current distributions of interest.
4
Performance
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the ILR Fund by illustrating the variability of the Funds returns for Premier Class shares from year-to-year. The Funds past performance does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Performance history will be available for the Service Class shares of the Fund after they have been in operation for one calendar year. Returns of Service Class shares would have been similar to the returns shown for Premier Class shares because the shares are invested in the same portfolio of securities. Returns would differ only to the extent that Service Class shares do not have the same expenses as Premier Class shares. Service Class shares are generally expected to incur higher expenses, and so generally lower returns, than Premier Class shares. Current performance information for the Fund is available toll free by calling (877) 521-4083 or by visiting our website at www.ssga.com/cash.
Annual Total Returns (years ended 12/31)
Highest Quarterly Return: 1.33% (Q4, 2006)
Lowest Quarterly Return: 0.02% (Q1, 2015)
Average Annual Total Returns (for periods ended 12/31/15)
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund |
1-Year | 5-Years | 10-Years |
Inception
Date |
||||||||||||
Premier Class |
0.12 | % | 0.13 | % | 1.43 | % | 8/12/2004 |
To obtain the Funds current yield, please call (877) 521-4083.
Investment Adviser
SSGA FM serves as the investment adviser to the Fund.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
Purchase Minimums
Service Class |
||
To establish an account |
$10,000,000 | |
To add to an existing account |
No minimum |
You may purchase or redeem Fund Shares on any day the Fund is open for business.
You may purchase or redeem Fund Shares by written request or wire transfer. Written requests should be sent to:
By Mail:
State Street Funds
P.O. Box 8048
Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048
By Overnight:
State Street Funds
30 Dan Road
Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809
By Telephone:
For wire transfer instructions, please call (866) 392-0869 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time. Redemptions by telephone are permitted only if you previously have been authorized for these transactions.
5
By Intermediary:
If you wish to purchase or redeem Fund Shares through a broker, bank or other financial intermediary (Financial Intermediary), please contact that Financial Intermediary directly. Your Financial Intermediary may have different or additional requirements for opening an account and/or for the processing of purchase and redemption orders, or may be closed at times when the Fund is open.
Financial Intermediaries may contact the Boston Financial Data Services Group at (877) 332-6207 or email them at nsccresearch@bostonfinancial.com with questions.
Tax Information
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Funds distributions are generally taxed as ordinary income, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or individual retirement account. Any withdrawals made from such tax-advantaged arrangement may be taxable to you.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
If you purchase Fund Shares through a broker-dealer or other Financial Intermediary (such as a bank), the Adviser or its affiliates may pay the Financial Intermediary for certain activities related to the Fund, including educational training programs, conferences, the development of technology platforms and reporting systems, or other services related to the sale or promotion of the Fund. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your Financial Intermediarys website for more information.
6
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES, PRINCIPAL STRATEGIES AND RISKS
Investment Objective
The investment objective of the ILR Fund as stated in the Fund Summary, may be changed without shareholder approval.
Principal Investment Strategies
The ILR Fund follows a disciplined investment process in which SSGA FM bases its decisions on the relative attractiveness of different money market instruments. In the Advisers opinion, the attractiveness of an instrument may vary depending on the general level of interest rates, as well as imbalances of supply and demand in the market. The Fund invests in accordance with regulatory requirements applicable to money market funds, which require, among other things, the Fund to invest only in short-term, high quality debt obligations (generally, securities that have remaining maturities of 397 calendar days or less and either have been rated in one of the two highest short-term rating categories or are considered by the Fund to be of comparable quality), to maintain a maximum dollar-weighted average maturity of sixty (60) days or less, and to meet requirements as to portfolio diversification and liquidity.
The Fund currently seeks to maintain a stable net asset value (NAV) per share of $1.00 by valuing its portfolio securities using amortized cost. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will continue to be a money market fund and the NAV of the Funds shares will float, fluctuating with changes in the values of the Funds portfolio securities. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will typically accept purchase and redemption orders multiple times per day, and calculate its NAV at each such time.
The Fund attempts to meet its investment objective by investing in a broad range of money market instruments. These may include among other things: U.S. government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds and other securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest, as applicable, by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposits and time deposits of U.S. and foreign banks (including ECDs, ETDs and YCDs (as defined below); commercial paper and other high quality obligations of U.S. or foreign companies; asset-backed securities, including asset-backed commercial paper; mortgage-related securities; and repurchase agreements. These instruments may bear fixed, variable or floating rates of interest or may be zero-coupon securities. The Fund also may invest in shares of other money market funds, including funds advised by the Adviser. Under normal market conditions, the Fund intends to invest more than 25% of its total assets in bank obligations. A substantial portion of the Fund may be invested in securities that are issued or traded pursuant to exemptions from registration under the federal securities laws.
European Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by a bank outside of the United States. European Time Deposits (ETDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks. Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. These instruments have different risks than those associated with the obligations of U.S. banks operating in the United States.
The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Money Market Portfolio, which has substantially similar investment policies to the Fund. When the Fund invests in this master-feeder structure, the Funds only investments are shares of the Portfolio, and it participates in the investment returns achieved by the Portfolio. Descriptions in this section of the investment activities of the Fund also generally describe the expected investment activities of the Portfolio.
Additional Information About Risks
Call/Prepayment Risk. Call/prepayment risk is the risk that an issuer will exercise its right to pay principal on an obligation held by the Fund earlier than expected or required. This may occur, for example, when there is a decline in interest rates, and an issuer of bonds or preferred stock redeems the bonds or stock in order to replace them with obligations on which it is required to pay a lower interest or dividend rate. It may also occur when there is an unanticipated increase in the rate at which mortgages or other receivables underlying mortgage- or asset-backed securities held by the Fund are prepaid. In any such case, the Fund may be forced to invest the prepaid amounts in lower-yielding investments, resulting in a decline in the Funds income.
Counterparty Risk. The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties with which the Fund enters into repurchase agreements and other transactions. If a counterparty fails to meet its contractual obligations, the Fund may be unable to terminate the transaction, and it may be delayed or prevented from realizing on any collateral in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding relating to the counterparty.
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Credit Risk. Credit risk is the risk that an issuer, guarantor or liquidity provider of a fixed-income security held by the Fund may be unable or unwilling, or may be perceived (whether by market participants, ratings agencies, pricing services or otherwise) as unable or unwilling, to make timely principal and/or interest payments, or to otherwise honor its obligations. It includes the risk that the security will be downgraded by a credit rating agency; generally, lower credit quality issuers present higher credit risks. An actual or perceived decline in creditworthiness of an issuer of a fixed-income security held by the Fund may result in a decrease in the value of the security. It is possible that the ability of an issuer to meet its obligations will decline substantially during the period when the Fund owns securities of the issuer or that the issuer will default on its obligations or that the obligations of the issuer will be limited or restructured.
The credit rating assigned to any particular investment does not necessarily reflect the issuers current financial condition and does not reflect an assessment of an investments volatility or liquidity. Securities rated in the lowest category of investment grade are considered to have speculative characteristics. If a security held by the Fund loses its rating or its rating is downgraded, the Fund may nonetheless continue to hold the security in the discretion of the Adviser. In the case of asset-backed or mortgage-related securities, changes in the actual or perceived ability of the obligors on the underlying assets or mortgages to make payments of interest and/or principal may affect the values of those securities.
Debt Securities Risk. The values of debt securities may increase or decrease as a result of the following: market fluctuations, increases in interest rates, actual or perceived inability or unwillingness of issuers, guarantors or liquidity providers to make scheduled principal or interest payments or illiquidity in debt securities markets; the risk of low rates of return due to reinvestment of securities during periods of falling interest rates or repayment by issuers with higher coupon or interest rates; and/or the risk of low income due to falling interest rates. To the extent that interest rates rise, certain underlying obligations may be paid off substantially slower than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. A rising interest rate environment may cause the value of the Funds fixed income securities to decrease, an adverse impact on the liquidity of the Funds fixed income securities, and increased volatility of the fixed income markets. If the principal on a debt obligation is prepaid before expected, the prepayments of principal may have to be reinvested in obligations paying interest at lower rates. During periods of falling interest rates, the income received by the Fund may decline. Changes in interest rates will likely have a greater effect on the values of debt securities of longer durations. Returns on investments in debt securities could trail the returns on other investment options, including investments in equity securities.
Extension Risk. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of slower-than-expected principal payments. This may increase the period of time during which an investment earns a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and reduce the value of the security. Extension risk may be heightened during periods of adverse economic conditions generally, as payment rates decline due to higher unemployment levels and other factors.
Financial Institutions Risk. Some instruments are issued or guaranteed by financial institutions, such as banks and brokers, or are collateralized by securities issued or guaranteed by financial institutions. Changes in the creditworthiness of any of these institutions may adversely affect the values of instruments of issuers in financial industries. Financial institutions may be particularly sensitive to certain economic factors such as interest rate changes, adverse developments in the real estate market, fiscal and monetary policy and general economic cycles. Adverse developments in banking and other financial industries may cause the Fund to underperform relative to other funds that invest more broadly across different industries or have a smaller exposure to financial institutions. Changes in governmental regulation and oversight of financial institutions may have an adverse effect on the financial condition or the earnings or operations of a financial institution and on the types and amounts of businesses in which a financial institution may engage. An investor may be delayed or prevented from exercising certain remedies against a financial institution. The amount of the Funds assets that may be invested in any financial institution, or financial institutions generally, may be limited by applicable law.
Income Risk. The Funds income may decline due to falling interest rates or other factors. Issuers of securities held by the Fund may call or redeem the securities during periods of falling interest rates, and the Fund would likely be required to reinvest in securities paying lower interest rates. If an obligation held by the Fund is prepaid, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayment in other obligations paying income at lower rates. A reduction in the income earned by the Fund may limit the Funds ability to achieve its objective.
Interest Rate Risk . Interest rate risk is the risk that the securities held by the Fund will decline in value because of increases in market interest rates. Debt securities with longer durations tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates, usually making them more volatile than debt securities with shorter durations. For example, the value of a security with a duration of five years would be expected to decrease by 5% for every 1% increase in interest rates. Falling interest rates also create the potential for a decline in the Funds income and yield. Interest-only and principal-only securities are especially sensitive to interest rate changes, which can affect
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not only their prices but can also change the income flows and repayment assumptions about those investments. Variable and floating rate securities also generally increase or decrease in value in response to changes in interest rates, although generally to a lesser degree than fixed-rate securities. A substantial increase in interest rates may also have an adverse impact on the liquidity of a security, especially those with longer durations. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. Changes in governmental policy, including changes in central bank monetary policy, could cause interest rates to rise rapidly, or cause investors to expect a rapid rise in interest rates. This could lead to heightened levels of interest rate, volatility and liquidity risks for the fixed income markets generally and could have a substantial and immediate effect on the values of the Funds investments.
Large Shareholder Risk. To the extent a large proportion of the interests of the Portfolio are highly concentrated or held by a small number of investors (or a single investor), including funds or accounts over which the Adviser has investment discretion, the Portfolio is subject to the risk that these investors will purchase or redeem Portfolio interests in large amounts rapidly or unexpectedly, including as a result of an asset allocation decision made by the Adviser. These transactions could adversely affect the ability of the Portfolio to conduct its investment program. For example, they could require the Portfolio to sell portfolio securities or purchase portfolio securities unexpectedly and incur substantial transaction costs and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and/or gains to investors, or the Portfolio may be required to sell its more liquid portfolio investments to meet a large redemption, in which case the Portfolios remaining assets may be less liquid, more volatile, and more difficult to price. The Portfolio may hold a relatively large proportion of its assets in cash in anticipation of large redemptions, diluting its investment returns.
Liquidity Risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Fund may not be able to dispose of securities or close out derivatives transactions readily at a favorable time or prices (or at all) or at prices approximating those at which the Fund currently values them. For example, certain investments may be subject to restrictions on resale, may trade in the over-the-counter market or in limited volume, or may not have an active trading market. Illiquid securities may trade at a discount from comparable, more liquid investments and may be subject to wide fluctuations in market value. It may be difficult for the Fund to value illiquid securities accurately. The market for certain investments may become illiquid under adverse market or economic conditions independent of any specific adverse changes in the conditions of a particular issuer. Disposal of illiquid securities may entail registration expenses and other transaction costs that are higher than those for liquid securities. The Fund may seek to borrow money to meet its obligations (including among other things redemption obligations) if it is unable to dispose of illiquid investments, resulting in borrowing expenses and possible leveraging of the Fund. In some cases, due to unanticipated levels of illiquidity the Fund may choose to meet its redemption obligations wholly or in part by distributions of assets in-kind.
Low Short-Term Interest Rate Risk . At the date of this Prospectus, short-term interest rates are at historically low levels, and so the Funds yield is very low. It is possible that the Fund will generate an insufficient amount of income to pay its expenses, and that it will not be able to pay a daily dividend and may have a negative yield (i.e., it may lose money on an operating basis). It is possible that the Fund will maintain a substantial portion of its assets in cash, on which it would earn little, if any, income.
Market Disruption and Geopolitical Risk. The Fund is subject to the risk that geopolitical events will disrupt securities markets and adversely affect global economies and markets. War, terrorism, and related geopolitical events have led, and in the future may lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on U.S. and world economies and markets generally. Likewise, natural and environmental disasters and systemic market dislocations may be highly disruptive to economies and markets. Those events as well as other changes in foreign and domestic economic and political conditions also could adversely affect individual issuers or related groups of issuers, securities markets, interest rates, credit ratings, inflation, investor sentiment, and other factors affecting the value of the Funds investments. Given the increasing interdependence among global economies and markets, conditions in one country, market, or region might adversely affect markets, issuers, and/or foreign exchange rates in other countries, including the U.S. Any partial or complete dissolution of the European Monetary Union, or any increased uncertainty as to its status, could have significant adverse effects on currency and financial markets, and on the values of the Funds investments. Securities and financial markets may be susceptible to market manipulation or other fraudulent trade practices, which could disrupt the orderly functioning of these markets or adversely affect the values of investments traded in these markets, including investments held by the Fund. To the extent the Fund has focused its investments in the market or index of a particular region, adverse geopolitical and other events could have a disproportionate impact on the Fund.
Market Risk . Market prices of investments held by the Fund will go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably. The Funds investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities markets. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors including, but not limited to, economic growth or recession, changes in interest rates, changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness
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of issuers and general market liquidity. Even if general economic conditions do not change, the value of an investment in the Fund could decline if the particular industries, sectors or companies in which the Fund invests do not perform well or are adversely affected by events. Further, legal, political, regulatory and tax changes also may cause fluctuations in markets and securities prices.
Market Volatility; Government Intervention Risk. Market dislocations and other external events, such as the failures or near failures of significant financial institutions, dislocations in investment or currency markets, corporate or governmental defaults or credit downgrades, or poor collateral performance, may subject the Fund to significant risk of substantial volatility and loss. Governmental and regulatory authorities have taken, and may in the future take, actions to provide or arrange credit supports to financial institutions whose operations have been compromised by credit market dislocations and to restore liquidity and stability to financial systems in their jurisdictions; the implementation of such governmental interventions and their impact on both the markets generally and the Funds investment program in particular can be uncertain. In recent periods, governmental and non-governmental issuers have defaulted on, or have been forced to restructure, their debts, and many other issuers have faced difficulties obtaining credit. These market conditions may continue, worsen or spread, including, without limitation, in Europe or Asia. Defaults or restructurings by governments or others of their debts could have substantial adverse effects on economies, financial markets, and asset valuations around the world. In recent periods, financial regulators, including the U.S. Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank, have taken steps to maintain historically low interest rates, such as by purchasing bonds. Some governmental authorities have taken steps to devalue their currencies substantially or have taken other steps to counter actual or anticipated market or other developments. Steps by those regulators to implement, or to curtail or taper, such activities could have substantial negative effects on financial markets. The withdrawal of support, failure of efforts in response to a financial crisis, or investor perception that these efforts are not succeeding could negatively affect financial markets generally as well as the values and liquidity of certain securities.
Master/Feeder Structure Risk. The Fund pursues its objective by investing substantially all of its assets in another pooled investment vehicle (a master fund or Portfolio). The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the ability of the master fund to meet its investment objective. The ability of the Fund to meet its objective may be adversely affected by the purchase and redemption activities of other investors in the master fund. The ability of the Fund to meet redemption requests will depend on its ability to redeem its interest in the master fund. The Adviser or an affiliate serves as investment adviser to the master fund, leading to potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates will receive fees based on the amount of assets invested in the master fund. Investment by the Fund in the master fund may be beneficial in the management of the master fund, by helping to achieve economies of scale or enhancing cash flows. Due to this and other factors, the Adviser may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates in lieu of investments by the Fund directly in portfolio securities, or may have an incentive to invest in such master fund over a master fund sponsored or managed by others. Similarly, the Adviser may have an incentive to delay or decide against the sale of interests held by the Fund in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. It is possible that other clients of the Adviser or its affiliates will purchase or sell interests in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates at prices and at times more favorable than those at which the Fund does so. The Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the expenses incurred by the master fund.
Money Market Fund Regulatory Risk. In July 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted regulatory changes that will affect the structure and operation of money market funds. The revised regulations impose new liquidity requirements on money market funds, permit (and in some cases require) money market funds to impose liquidity fees on redemptions, and permit money market funds to impose gates restricting redemptions from the funds. Institutional money market funds will be required to have a floating NAV. (U.S. government money market funds are exempt from a number of the new regulations.) There are a number of other changes under the revised regulations that relate to diversification, disclosure, reporting and stress testing requirements. These changes and other proposed amendments to the regulations governing money market funds could significantly affect the money market fund industry generally.
Money Market Risk . An investment in a money market fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Although a money market fund generally seeks to preserve the value of its shares at $1.00 per share, there can be no assurance that it will do so, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund. A major or unexpected increase in interest rates or a decline in the credit quality of an issuer or entity providing credit support, an inactive trading market for money market instruments, or adverse market, economic, industry, political, regulatory, geopolitical, and other conditions could cause a money market funds share price to fall below $1.00. It is possible that a money market fund will issue and redeem shares at $1.00 per share at times when the fair value of the money market funds portfolio per share is more or less than $1.00. Recent changes in the regulation of money market funds may affect the operations and structures of such funds. A money market fund may be permitted or required to impose redemption fees or to impose limitations on redemptions during periods of high illiquidity in the markets for the investments held by it. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will not maintain a constant net asset value per share. Beginning at that time, the value of the Funds shares will be calculated to four decimal places and will vary reflecting the value of the portfolio of investments held by the Fund. It is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund. None of
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State Street Corporation, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Global Advisors (SSGA), SSGA FM or their affiliates (State Street Entities) guarantee the value of an investment in a money market fund at $1.00 per share. Investors should have no expectation of capital support to a money market fund from State Street Entities.
Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk. Investments in mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to the risk of significant credit downgrades, illiquidity, and defaults to a greater extent than many other types of fixed income investments. Mortgage-related securities represent a participation in, or are secured by, mortgage loans. Other asset-backed securities are typically structured like mortgage-related securities, but instead of mortgage loans or interests in mortgage loans, the underlying assets may include, for example, items such as motor vehicle installment sales or installment loan contracts, leases on various types of real and personal property, and receivables from credit card agreements. During periods of falling interest rates, mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities, which typically provide the issuer with the right to prepay the security prior to maturity, may be prepaid, which may result in the Fund having to reinvest the proceeds in other investments at lower interest rates. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may extend because of slower-than expected principal payments. This may lock in a below market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and interest rate sensitivity, and reduce the value of the security. As a result, mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may have less potential for capital appreciation during periods of declining interest rates than other debt securities of comparable maturities, although they may have a similar risk of decline in market values during periods of rising interest rates. Prepayment rates are difficult to predict and the potential impact of prepayments on the value of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security depends on the terms of the instrument and can result in significant volatility. The price of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security also depends on the credit quality and adequacy of the underlying assets or collateral. Defaults on the underlying assets, if any, may impair the value of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security. For some asset-backed securities in which the Fund invests, such as those backed by credit card receivables, the underlying cash flows may not be supported by a security interest in a related asset. Moreover, the values of mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may be substantially dependent on the servicing of the underlying asset pools, and are therefore subject to risks associated with the negligence or malfeasance by their servicers and to the credit risk of their servicers. In certain situations, the mishandling of related documentation may also affect the rights of securities holders in and to the underlying collateral. There may be legal and practical limitations on the enforceability of any security interest granted with respect to underlying assets, or the value of the underlying assets, if any, may be insufficient if the issuer defaults.
In a forward roll transaction, the Fund will sell a mortgage-related security to a bank or other permitted entity and simultaneously agree to purchase a similar security from the institution at a later date at an agreed upon price. The mortgage securities that are purchased will bear the same interest rate as those sold, but generally will be collateralized by different pools of mortgages with different prepayment histories than those sold. The values of such transactions will be affected by many of the same factors that affect the values of mortgage-related securities generally. In addition, forward roll transactions may have the effect of creating investment leverage in the Fund.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk. Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers (including depositary receipts) entail risks not typically associated with investing in securities of U.S. issuers. Similar risks may apply to securities traded on a U.S. securities exchange that are issued by entities with significant exposure to non-U.S. countries. In certain countries, legal remedies available to investors may be more limited than those available with regard to U.S. investments. Income and gains with respect to investments in certain countries may be subject to withholding and other taxes. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. entity than about a U.S. entity, and many non-U.S. entities are not subject to accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards, regulatory framework and practices comparable to those in the United States. The securities of some non-U.S. entities are less liquid and at times more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. entities, and could become subject to sanctions or embargoes that adversely affect the Funds investment. Non-U.S. transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions and custody costs may be higher than in the U.S. In addition, there may be a possibility of nationalization or expropriation of assets, imposition of currency exchange controls, confiscatory taxation, and diplomatic developments that could adversely affect the values of the Funds investments in certain non-U.S. countries. Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers also are subject to foreign political and economic risk not associated with U.S. investments, meaning that political events (civil unrest, national elections, changes in political conditions and foreign relations, imposition of exchange controls and repatriation restrictions), social and economic events (labor strikes, rising inflation) and natural disasters occurring in a country where the Fund invests could cause the Funds investments in that country to experience gains or losses.
Rapid Changes in Interest Rates . The values of most instruments held by the Fund are adversely affected by changes in interest rates generally, especially increases in interest rates. Rapid changes in interest rates may cause significant requests to redeem Fund Shares, and possibly cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities at a loss to satisfy those requests. Significant losses would negatively affect the Funds returns and could impair the Funds ability to maintain a stable share price of $1.00.
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Reinvestment Risk. Income from the Funds portfolio may decline when the Fund invests the proceeds from investment income, sales of portfolio securities or matured, traded or called debt obligations. For instance, during periods of declining interest rates, an issuer of debt obligations may exercise an option to redeem securities prior to maturity, forcing the Fund to reinvest the proceeds in lower-yielding securities. A decline in income received by the Fund from its investments is likely to have a negative effect on the yield and total return of the Fund Shares.
Repurchase Agreement Risk . A repurchase agreement is an agreement to buy a security from a seller at one price and a simultaneous agreement to sell it back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price, typically representing the purchase price plus interest. Repurchase agreements may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. The Funds investment return on such transactions will depend on the counterpartys willingness and ability to perform its obligations under a repurchase agreement. If the Funds counterparty should default on its obligations and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the collateral, or if the value of the collateral is insufficient, the Fund may realize a loss.
Risk of Investment in Other Pools . If the Fund invests in another pooled investment vehicle, it is exposed to the risk that the other pool will not perform as expected. The Fund is exposed indirectly to all of the risks applicable to an investment in such other pool. In addition, lack of liquidity in the underlying pool could result in its value being more volatile than the underlying portfolio of securities, and may limit the ability of the Fund to sell or redeem its interest in the pool at a time or at a price it might consider desirable. The investment policies and limitations of the other pool may not be the same as those of the Fund; as a result, the Fund may be subject to additional or different risks, or may achieve a reduced investment return, as a result of its investment in another pool. If a pool is an exchange-traded fund or other product traded on a securities exchange or otherwise actively traded, its shares may trade at a premium or discount to their NAV, an effect that might be more pronounced in less liquid markets. The Fund bears its proportionate share of the fees and expenses of any pool in which it invests. The Adviser or an affiliate may serve as investment adviser to a pool in which the Fund may invest, leading to potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates may receive fees based on the amount of assets invested in the pool. Investment by the Fund in the pool may be beneficial to the Adviser or an affiliate in the management of the pool, by helping to achieve economies of scale or enhancing cash flows. Due to this and other factors, the Adviser may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates in lieu of investments by the Fund directly in portfolio securities, or may have an incentive to invest in the pool over a pool sponsored or managed by others. Similarly, the Adviser may have an incentive to delay or decide against the sale of interests held by the Fund in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. It is possible that other clients of the Adviser or its affiliates will purchase or sell interests in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates at prices and at times more favorable than those at which the Fund does so.
Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper and Rule 144A Securities Risk . The Fund may invest in commercial paper issued in reliance on the private placement exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act). This commercial paper is commonly called Section 4(a)(2) paper. The Fund may also invest in securities that may be offered and sold only to qualified institutional buyers under Rule 144A of the 1933 Act (Rule 144A securities).
Section 4(a)(2) paper is sold to institutional investors who must agree to purchase the paper for investment and not with a view to public distribution. Any resale by the purchaser must be in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. Section 4(a)(2) paper normally is resold to other institutional investors like the Fund through or with the assistance of the issuer or investment dealers that make a market in Section 4(a)(2) paper. As a result it suffers from liquidity risk, the risk that the securities may be difficult to value because of the absence of an active market and the risk that it may be sold only after considerable expense and delay, if at all. Rule 144A securities generally must be sold only to other qualified institutional buyers.
Section 4(a)(2) paper and Rule 144A securities will not be considered illiquid for purposes of the Funds limitation on illiquid securities if the Adviser (pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board) determines that a liquid trading market exists for the securities in question. There can be no assurance that a liquid trading market will exist at any time for any particular Section 4(a)(2) paper or Rule 144A securities. The Statement of Additional Information (SAI) addresses the Funds limitation on illiquid securities.
Settlement Risk . Markets in different countries have different clearance and settlement procedures and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of transactions. Delays in settlement may increase credit risk to the Fund, limit the ability of the Fund to reinvest the proceeds of a sale of securities, hinder the ability of the Fund to lend its portfolio securities, and potentially subject the Fund to penalties for its failure to deliver to on-purchasers of securities whose delivery to the Fund was delayed. Delays in the settlement of securities purchased by the Fund may limit the ability of the Fund to sell those securities at times and prices it considers desirable, and may subject the Fund to losses and costs due to its own inability to settle with subsequent purchasers of the securities from it. The Fund may be required to borrow monies it had otherwise expected to receive in connection with the settlement of securities sold by it, in order to meet its obligations to others.
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Stable Share Price Risk. If the market value of one or more of the Funds investments changes substantially, the Fund may not be able to maintain a stable share price of $1.00. This risk typically is higher during periods of rapidly changing interest rates or when issuer credit quality generally is falling, and is made worse when the Fund experiences significant redemption requests. This risk applies for the Fund through October 11, 2016.
U.S. Government Securities Risk . U.S. Government securities, such as Treasury bills, notes and bonds and mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae), are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States; others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agencys obligations; and still others are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency, instrumentality, or enterprise. Although U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) may be chartered or sponsored by Congress, they are not funded by Congressional appropriations, and their securities are not issued by the U.S. Treasury nor supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. There is no assurance that the U.S. Government would provide financial support to its agencies and instrumentalities if not required to do so. In addition, certain governmental entities have been subject to regulatory scrutiny regarding their accounting policies and practices and other concerns that may result in legislation, changes in regulatory oversight and/or other consequences that could adversely affect the credit quality, availability, or investment character of securities issued by these entities. The value and liquidity of U.S. Government securities may be affected adversely by changes in the ratings of those securities. Securities issued by the U.S. Treasury historically have been considered to present minimal credit risk. The downgrade in the long-term U.S. credit rating by at least one major rating agency has introduced greater uncertainty about the ability of the U.S. to repay its obligations. A further credit rating downgrade or a U.S. credit default could decrease the value and increase the volatility of the Funds investments.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities . Variable or floating rate securities are debt securities with variable or floating interest rates payments. Variable or floating rate securities bear rates of interest that are adjusted periodically according to formulae intended generally to reflect market rates of interest and allow the Fund to participate (determined in accordance with the terms of the securities) in increases in interest rates through upward adjustments of the coupon rates on the securities. However, during periods of increasing interest rates, changes in the coupon rates may lag behind the changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in coupon rates. Alternatively, during periods of declining interest rates, the coupon rates on such securities will typically readjust downward resulting in a lower yield. The Fund may also invest in variable or floating rate equity securities, whose dividend payments vary based on changes in market rates of interest or other factors.
Zero-Coupon Bond Risk . Zero-coupon bonds are debt obligations that are generally issued at a discount and payable in full at maturity, and that do not provide for current payments of interest prior to maturity. Zero-coupon bonds usually trade at a deep discount from their face or par values and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current distributions of interest. When interest rates rise, the values of zero-coupon bonds fall more rapidly than securities paying interest on a current basis, because the Fund is unable to reinvest interest payments at the higher rates.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT NON-PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISKS
The investments described below reflect the Funds and the Portfolios current practices. In addition to the principal risks described above, other risks are described in some of the descriptions of the investments below:
Conflicts of Interest Risk. An investment in the Fund may be subject to a number of actual or potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates may provide services to the Fund, such as securities lending agency services, custodial, administrative, bookkeeping, and accounting services, transfer agency and shareholder servicing, securities brokerage services, and other services for which the Fund would compensate the Adviser and/or such affiliates. The Fund may invest in other pooled investment vehicles sponsored, managed, or otherwise affiliated with the Adviser. There is no assurance that the rates at which the Fund pays fees or expenses to the Adviser or its affiliates, or the terms on which it enters into transactions with the Adviser or its affiliates will be the most favorable available in the market generally or as favorable as the rates the Adviser makes available to other clients. Because of its financial interest, the Adviser may have an incentive to enter into transactions or arrangements on behalf of the Fund with itself or its affiliates in circumstances where it might not have done so in the absence of that interest.
The Adviser and its affiliates serve as investment adviser to other clients and may make investment decisions that may be different from those that will be made by the Adviser on behalf of the Fund. For example, the Adviser may provide asset allocation advice to some clients that may include a recommendation to invest in or redeem from particular issuers while not providing that same
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recommendation to all clients invested in the same or similar issuers. The Adviser may (subject to applicable law) be simultaneously seeking to purchase (or sell) investments for the Fund and to sell (or purchase) the same investment for accounts, funds, or structured products for which it serves as asset manager, or for other clients or affiliates. The Adviser and its affiliates may invest for clients in various securities that are senior, pari passu or junior to, or have interests different from or adverse to, the securities that are owned by the Fund. The Adviser or its affiliates, in connection with its other business activities, may acquire material non-public confidential information that may restrict the Adviser from purchasing securities or selling securities for itself or its clients (including the Fund) or otherwise using such information for the benefit of its clients or itself.
The foregoing does not purport to be a comprehensive list or complete explanation of all potential conflicts of interests which may affect the Fund. The Fund may encounter circumstances, or enter into transactions, in which conflicts of interest that are not listed or discussed above may arise.
Cybersecurity Risk . With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet and the dependence on computer systems to perform business and operational functions, funds (such as the Fund) 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, the Fund, the Portfolio, the Adviser, or a custodian, transfer agent, or other affiliated or third-party service provider may adversely affect the Fund or its shareholders. For instance, cyber-attacks or technical malfunctions may interfere with the processing of shareholder or other transactions, affect the Funds ability to calculate its NAV, cause the release of private shareholder information or confidential Fund information, 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 or technical malfunctions 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 Fund may also incur substantial costs for cybersecurity risk management in order to prevent cyber incidents in the future. The Fund and its 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 Fund relies on third-party service providers for many of its 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 cybersecurity risks or technical malfunctions also are present for issuers of securities in which the Fund invests, which could result in material adverse consequences for such issuers, and may cause the Funds investment in such securities to lose value.
The Funds portfolio holdings disclosure policy is described in the SAI.
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The Fund is a separate, diversified series of the State Street Institutional Investment Trust (the Trust), which is an open-end management investment company organized as a business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The Fund invests as part of a master/feeder structure. The Fund currently seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Portfolio, a separate mutual fund, that has substantially identical investment objective, investment policies, and risks as the Fund. All discussions about the Funds investment objective, policies and risks should be understood to refer also to the investment objectives, policies and risks of the Portfolio.
The Fund can withdraw its investment in the Portfolio if, at any time, the Funds Board of Trustees determines that it would be in the best interests of the Funds shareholders, or if the investment objectives of the Portfolio changed so that they were inconsistent with the objectives of the Fund. If the Fund withdraws its investment from the Portfolio, the Fund may invest all of its assets in another mutual fund that has the same investment objective as the Fund, the Adviser may directly manage the Funds assets, or the Board may take such other action it deems appropriate and in the best interests of shareholders of the Fund, which may include liquidation of the Fund.
Investment Adviser
SSGA FM serves as the investment adviser to the Fund and Portfolio and, subject to the supervision of the Board, is responsible for the investment management of the Fund. The Adviser provides an investment management program for the Fund and manages the investment of the Funds assets. The Adviser is a wholly-owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation and is registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The Adviser and certain other affiliates of State Street Corporation make up SSGA. SSGA is one of the worlds largest institutional money managers and the investment management arm of State Street Corporation. As of June 30, 2016, the Adviser managed approximately $398.23 billion in assets and SSGA managed approximately $2.30 trillion in assets. The Advisers principal business address is State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.
The Fund has entered into an investment advisory agreement with the Adviser pursuant to which the Adviser will manage the Funds assets directly, for compensation paid at an annual rate of 0.05% of the Funds average daily net assets, in the event that the Fund were to cease investing substantially all of its assets in its Portfolio or another investment company with essentially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund. The Adviser does not receive any management fees from the Fund under that agreement so long as the Fund continues to invest substantially all of its assets in the Portfolio or in another investment company with essentially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund. The Adviser places all orders for purchases and sales of the Portfolios investments. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the effective management fee paid, reflecting certain fee waivers and expense reimbursements of the Adviser, was 0.05% for the Portfolio.
In addition to any contractual expense limitation for the Fund which is described in the Fund Summary, the Adviser also may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses for the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid negative yield which may vary from time to time and from Fund to Fund in the Advisers sole discretion. Under an agreement with the Adviser relating to the Voluntary Reduction, the Fund and the Portfolio have agreed to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction beginning on October 1, 2012, subject to certain limitations. The Fund will not be obligated to reimburse the Adviser:
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more than three years after the end of the fiscal year for the Fund in which the Adviser provided a Voluntary Reduction; |
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in respect of any business day for which the net annualized one-day yield is less than 0.00%; |
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to the extent that the amount of the reimbursement to the Adviser on any day exceeds fifty percent of the yield (net of all expenses, exclusive of the reimbursement) of the Fund on that day; |
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to the extent that the amount of such reimbursement would cause the Funds net yield to fall below the Funds minimum net yield as determined by the Adviser in its sole discretion; or |
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in respect of any fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements that are necessary to maintain the Funds contractual total expense limit which is effective at the time of such fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. |
A reimbursement to the Adviser would increase fund expenses and negatively impact the Funds future yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. Reimbursement payments by the Fund to the Adviser in connection with the Voluntary Reduction are considered extraordinary
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expenses and are not subject to any contractual expense limitation agreement in effect for the Fund at the time of such payment. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund.
A discussion regarding the Boards consideration of the Funds Investment Advisory Agreement is provided in the Trusts Semi-Annual Report to Shareholders for the period ended June 30, 2015.
The Administrator, Sub-Administrator and Custodian.
The Adviser serves as administrator of the Fund. The amount of the fee paid to the Adviser for administrative services may vary by share class. The Fund currently pays the Adviser an administrative fee at the annual rate of 0.05% in respect of the class of shares in this Prospectus. State Street Bank and Trust Company (State Street), a subsidiary of State Street Corporation, serves as the sub-administrator for the Fund for a fee that is paid by the Adviser. State Street also serves as custodian of the Fund for a separate fee that is paid by the Fund. SSGA FM serves as administrator of the Portfolio and State Street serves as sub-administrator and custodian of the Portfolio.
The Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent.
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. is the transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent (the Transfer Agent).
The Distributor.
State Street Global Markets, LLC serves as the Funds distributor (SSGM or the Distributor) pursuant to the Distribution Agreement between SSGM and the Trust.
Additional Information.
The Trustees of the Trust oversee generally the operations of the Fund and the Trust. The Trust enters into contractual arrangements with various parties, including among others the Funds investment adviser, custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, who provide services to the Fund. Shareholders are not parties to any such contractual arrangements or intended beneficiaries of those contractual arrangements, and those contractual arrangements are not intended to create in any shareholder any right to enforce them directly against the service providers or to seek any remedy under them directly against the service providers.
This Prospectus provides information concerning the Trust and the Fund that you should consider in determining whether to purchase shares of the Fund. Neither this Prospectus, nor the related SAI, is intended, or should be read, to be or to give rise to an agreement or contract between the Trust or the Fund and any investor, or to give rise to any rights in any shareholder or other person other than any rights under federal or state law that may not be waived.
Determination of Net Asset Value
Until October 11, 2016, the ILR Fund determines its NAV per share once each business day at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) except for days when the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) closes earlier than its regular closing time, in which event the Fund will determine its NAV at the earlier closing time (the time when the Fund determines its NAV per share is referred to herein as the Valuation Time). Until October 11, 2016, the Fund seeks to maintain a $1.00 per share NAV and, accordingly, uses the amortized cost valuation method, in compliance with the risk limiting conditions of Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act, to value its portfolio instruments. The amortized cost valuation method initially prices an instrument at its cost and thereafter assumes a constant amortization to maturity of any discount or premium, regardless of the impact of fluctuating interest rates on the market value of the instrument.
Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will determine its NAV per share three times each business day at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET except for days when the NYSEs regular closing is prior to 3 p.m. ET, in which event the Fund will determine its final NAV for the day at the earlier closing time. Also effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will calculate its NAV to four decimal places.
Effective October 12, 2016, the NAV of each class of the Funds shares is calculated by dividing the value of the assets of the Fund attributable to that class less the liabilities of the Fund attributable to that class by the number of shares in the class outstanding. The Fund values each security or other investment pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board of Trustees. Securities or other investments may be valued at fair value, as determined in good faith and pursuant to procedures approved by the Portfolios Board of Trustees, under certain limited circumstances. For example, fair value pricing may be used when market quotations are not readily available or reliable, such as when (i) trading for a security is restricted; or (ii) a significant event, as determined by the Adviser, that may affect the value of one or more securities or other investments held by the Fund occurs after the close of a related exchange but before the determination of the Funds NAV. Attempts to determine the fair value of securities or other investments introduce an element of subjectivity to the pricing of securities or other investments. As a result, the price of a security or other investment
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determined through fair valuation techniques may differ from the price quoted or published by other sources and may not accurately reflect the price a Fund would have received had it sold the investment. To the extent that the Fund invests in the shares of other registered open-end investment companies that are not traded on an exchange (mutual funds), such shares are valued at their published net asset values per share as reported by the funds. The prospectuses of these funds explain the circumstances under which the funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.
A business day is one on which the NYSE is open for regular trading. The Federal Reserve is closed on certain holidays on which the NYSE is open. These holidays are Columbus Day and Veterans Day. On these holidays, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because Federal Funds wiring does not occur on days when the Federal Reserve is closed. The Fund reserve the right to accept orders to purchase or redeem shares, or to continue to accept such orders following the close of the NYSE, on any day that is not a business day or any day on which the NYSE closes early, provided the Federal Reserve remains open. As noted in this Prospectus, the Fund may invest in securities listed on foreign exchanges, or otherwise traded in a foreign market, and those securities may trade on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares. Consequently, the NAV of the Funds shares may change on days when shareholders are not able to purchase or redeem the Funds shares. The Fund also may establish special hours on those days to determine the Funds NAV. In the event that the Fund invokes the right to accept orders to purchase or redeem shares on any day that is not a business day or adopt special hours of operation, the Fund will post advance notice of these events at www.ssga.com/cash.
If you hold shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary, your intermediary may offer additional services and account features that are not described in this Prospectus. Please contact your intermediary directly for an explanation of these services.
Investing in State Street Institutional Investment Trust Shares
Mutual funds advised by SSGA FM (the State Street Funds) and their service providers have a legal obligation to collect from you certain personal information about you at the time you open an account in order to verify your identity and the source of your payment. If you do not provide this information, you may not be able to open an account with the State Street Funds. If the State Street Funds believe that they have uncovered unlawful activity, the State Street Funds and their service providers may close your account and take any action they deem reasonable or required by law. The State Street Funds reserve the right to reject any purchase order.
This section of the Prospectus explains the basics of doing business with the State Street Funds. Carefully read each topic. The policies set forth below regarding the purchase, redemption and exchange of State Street Fund shares are in addition to the Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares section contained in the Fund Summary portion of this Prospectus. The State Street Funds reserve the right to change the following policies, without notice to shareholders; except that any modification or termination of the exchange privileges set forth herein will be preceded by 60 days advance notice to shareholders. Please call or check online for current information. Requests for transactions in the State Street Funds will be processed when they are received in good order. Good order means that the request is in an accurate and complete form, and all applicable documents have been received in such accurate and complete form (including typically, a signed application and medallion-guaranteed documents), and, for a purchase request, the check or wired funds have cleared.
Purchasing Shares
Investors pay no sales load to invest in the shares of the Fund. The price for Fund Shares is the NAV per share. Purchase requests received by the Fund in good order (a purchase request is in good order if it meets the requirements implemented from time to time by the Transfer Agent or authorized agent of the Fund, and for new accounts includes submission of a completed and signed application and all documentation necessary to open an account) on a business day will, if payment is received by FedWire, be priced at the NAV next determined after the order is accepted by the Fund. Payments received by FedWire prior to the last Valuation time (effective October 12, 2016, generally, 3:00 p.m. ET, unless the Fund closes earlier), will earn dividend accrual for that purchase. All purchases that are made by check will begin earning dividends the following business day after the day the order is accepted. (If you purchase shares by check, your order will not be in good form until the Transfer Agent receives federal funds for the check.) All purchase orders are subject to acceptance by the Fund. The Fund intends to be as fully invested as is practicable; therefore, investments must be made in Federal Funds ( i.e ., monies credited to the account of the Funds custodian bank by a Federal Reserve Bank).
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The minimum initial investment in Service Class Shares of the Fund is $10 million, although the Adviser may waive the minimum in its discretion. Holdings of related customer accounts may be aggregated for purposes of determining the minimum investment amount. Related customer accounts may include, but are not limited to, accounts held by the same investment or retirement plan, financial institution, broker, dealer or intermediary. The Fund and the Adviser reserve the right to increase or decrease the minimum amount required to open or maintain an account. There is no minimum subsequent investment, except in relation to maintaining certain minimum account balances (See Redeeming Shares below). The Fund requires prior notification of subsequent investments in excess of $50 million. The Fund reserves the right to cease accepting investments at any time or to reject any investment order.
Until October 11, 2016, the Fund may limit the amount of a purchase order received after 3:00 p.m. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will determine its NAV at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET. The 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. NAV calculation times are intended to facilitate same day settlement.
How to Purchase Shares
By Mail:
An initial investment in the Fund must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Institutional Account Application Form, sent to:
State Street Funds P.O. Box 8048 Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048 |
By Overnight:
State Street Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809 |
By Telephone/Fax:
An initial investment in the Fund must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Institutional Account Application Form, faxed to (816) 218-0400. Call the Fund at (866) 392-0869 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. ET and 5:00 p.m. ET to:
Ø confirm receipt of the faxed Institutional Account Application Form (initial purchases only), Ø request your new account number (initial purchases only), Ø confirm the amount being wired and wiring bank, and Ø receive a confirmation number for your purchase order (your trade is not effective until you have received a confirmation number from the Fund).
For your initial investment, send the original, signed Institutional Account Application Form to the address above. |
Wire Instructions:
Instruct your bank to transfer money by Federal Funds wire to:
State Street Bank and Trust Company 1 Iron Street Boston, MA 02110
ABA# 011000028 DDA# 9905-801-8 Fund Name Class Name Account Number Account Registration
On Columbus Day and Veterans Day, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because the Federal Funds wiring does not occur on those days. Payment for Fund Shares must be in Federal Funds (or converted to Federal Funds by the Transfer Agent) by the close of the Federal Reserve.
You will not be able to redeem shares from the account until the original Application has been received. The Fund and the Funds agents are not responsible for transfer errors by the sending or receiving bank and will not be liable for any loss incurred due to a wire transfer not having been received. |
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Redeeming Shares
An investor may redeem all or any portion of its investment. Redemption orders are processed at the NAV next determined after the Fund receives a redemption order in good form. If the Fund receives a redemption order in good form prior to its Valuation Time on a business day, shares are redeemed and the Fund typically sends payment for redeemed shares on that day, but no later than next business day (unless redemption proceed are sent by check or ACH). If a full redemption order is requested, no dividends will accrue with respect to shares on the day the redemption proceeds are sent. If a redemption order is placed after the last Valuation Time (effective October 12, 2016, generally, 3:00 p.m. ET, unless the Fund closes earlier) the redemption proceeds for the shares will be sent next business day (and dividends will accrue up to, but not including, the day that redemption proceeds are sent).
Certain special limitations affecting redemptions. The SEC has implemented a number of requirements, including liquidity fees and redemption gates, for money market funds based on the amount of fund assets in weekly liquid assets, which generally includes cash, direct obligations of the U.S. government, certain other U.S. government or agency securities, and securities that will mature or are subject to a demand feature that is exercisable and payable within five business days. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will pass through to its investors any liquidity fee or suspension of redemptions imposed by the Portfolio on the same terms and conditions as imposed by the Portfolio on the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, if the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 30% of its total assets and the Portfolios Board of Trustees determines it is in the best interests of the Portfolio, the Portfolio may immediately impose a liquidity fee of no more than 2% and/or temporarily suspend redemptions for up to 10 business days in any 90 day period. If the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of its total assets at the end of any business day, the Portfolio will impose a liquidity fee of 1% on all redemptions beginning on the next business day, unless the Portfolios Board determines that imposing such a fee would not be in the best interests of the Portfolio or determines that a lower or higher fee (not to exceed 2%) would be in the best interests of the Portfolio, which would remain in effect until weekly liquid assets return to 30% or the Portfolios Board determines that the fee is no longer in the best interests of the Portfolio. All liquidity fees payable by the Fund will be passed through to its investors, would be payable to the Portfolio and could offset any losses realized by the Portfolio when seeking to honor redemption requests. If liquidity fees are imposed or redemptions are suspended by the Portfolio, the Fund will notify shareholders on the Funds website. The Fund expects to treat such liquidity fees paid to the Portfolio as reducing proceeds paid to shareholders in redemption of Fund shares and not constituting income to the Portfolio. There may be circumstances under which the Fund may impose its own liquidity fees and/or suspend redemptions based on the level of the Funds own weekly liquid assets, in which case the Fund will also provide notice to shareholders.
If the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of its assets on a business day, the Portfolio may cease honoring redemptions and liquidate in the discretion of the Portfolios Board. If the Fund is notified that its Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of the Portfolios assets and the Portfolio has suspended redemptions and intends to liquidate, the Fund may also do so in the discretion of the Funds Board. There may be circumstances under which the Fund may cease honoring redemptions and liquidate in the discretion of its Board based on the level of the Funds own weekly liquid assets. If the Fund ceases honoring redemptions and determines to liquidate, the Fund expects that it would notify shareholders on the Funds website. Distributions to shareholders of liquidation proceeds may occur in one or more disbursements.
The right of any investor to receive payment with respect to any redemption may be suspended or the payment of the redemption proceeds postponed during any period in which the NYSE is closed (other than weekends or holidays) or trading on the NYSE is restricted or, to the extent otherwise permitted by the 1940 Act, if an emergency exists as a result of which disposal by the Fund of securities owned by it is not reasonably practicable or it is not reasonably practicable for the Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets. In addition, the SEC may by order permit suspension of redemptions for the protection of shareholders of the Fund.
A request for a partial redemption by an investor whose account balance is below the minimum amount or a request for partial redemption by an investor that would bring the account below the minimum amount may be treated as a request for a complete redemption of the account. These minimums may be different for investments made through certain financial intermediaries as determined by their policies and may be waived in the Advisers discretion. The Fund reserves the right to modify minimum account requirements at any time with or without prior notice. The Fund also reserves the right to involuntarily redeem an investors account if the investors account balance falls below the applicable minimum amount due to transaction activity.
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How to Redeem Shares
By Mail: |
Send a signed letter to: State Street Institutional Investment Trust Funds P.O. Box 8048 Boston, MA 02205-8048
The letter should include information necessary to process your request as described below. The Fund may require a medallion guarantee in certain circumstances. See Medallion Guarantees below. |
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By Overnight: |
State Street Institutional Investment Trust Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809 |
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By Telephone: | Please call (866) 392-0869 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET. | |
The Fund will need the following information to process your redemption request: Ø name(s) of account owners; Ø account number(s); Ø the name of the Fund; Ø your daytime telephone number; and Ø the dollar amount or number of shares being redeemed. |
On any day that the Fund calculates its NAVs earlier than normal, the Fund reserves the right to adjust the times noted above for purchasing and redeeming shares.
By Intermediary. If you wish to purchase or redeem Fund Shares through a broker, bank or other financial intermediary (Intermediary), please contact that Intermediary directly. Your Financial Intermediary may have different or additional requirements for opening an account and/or for the processing of purchase and redemption orders, or may be closed at times when the Fund is open. Intermediaries may contact the Boston Financial Data Services Group at (877) 332-6207 or email them at nsccresearch@bostonfinancial.com with questions.
Medallion Guarantees. Certain redemption requests must include a medallion guarantee for each registered account owner if any of the following apply:
Ø |
Your account address has changed within the last 10 business days. |
Ø |
Redemption proceeds are being transferred to an account with a different registration. |
Ø |
A wire is being sent to a financial institution other than the one that has been established on your Fund account. |
Ø |
Other unusual situations as determined by the Transfer Agent. |
Until October 11, 2016, all redemption requests regarding shares of the Fund placed after 4:00 p.m. ET may only be placed by telephone or pre-established other means such as a transmission and the Fund reserves the right to postpone payments for redemption requests received after 4:00 p.m. ET until the next business day.
Effective October 12, 2016, same day settlement of redemption proceeds will only be available for redemption requests accepted prior to the Funds last Valuation Time of the day (generally, 3:00 p.m. ET unless the Fund closes earlier).
The Fund reserves the right to waive medallion guarantee requirements, require a medallion guarantee under other circumstances or reject or delay redemption if the medallion guarantee is not in good form. Medallion guarantees may be provided by an eligible financial institution such as a commercial bank, a FINRA member firm such as a stock broker, a savings association or a national securities exchange. A notary public cannot provide a medallion guarantee. The Fund reserves the right to reject a medallion guarantee if it is not provided by a STAMP Medallion guarantor.
About Telephone Transactions . Telephone transactions are convenient but are not free from risk. Neither the Fund nor the Funds agents will be responsible for any losses resulting from unauthorized telephone transactions if reasonable security procedures are followed. In addition, you are responsible for: (i) verifying the accuracy of all data and information transmitted by telephone, (ii) verifying the accuracy of your account statements immediately upon receipt, and (iii) promptly notifying the Fund of any errors or
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inaccuracies including, without limitation, any errors or inaccuracies relating to shareholder data or information transmitted by telephone. During periods of heavy market activity or other times, it may be difficult to reach the Fund by telephone. If you are unable to reach us by telephone, consider sending written instructions.
The Fund may terminate the receipt of redemption orders by telephone at any time, in which case you may redeem shares by other means.
If you choose to purchase or redeem shares by sending instructions by regular mail, they will not be deemed received in good order until they are released by the post office and redelivered to the Transfer Agents physical location at 30 Dan Road in Canton, MA 02021. There will be a time lag, which may be one or more days, between regular mail receipt at the Boston post office box and redelivery to such physical location in Canton, and the Funds NAV may change over those days. You might consider using express rather than regular mail if you believe the time of receipt of your transaction request to be sensitive.
Excessive Trading. Because the Fund is a money market fund, the Funds Board of Trustees has not adopted policies and procedures with respect to frequent purchases and redemptions of Fund shares by Fund shareholders. Nonetheless, the Fund may take any reasonable action that they deem necessary or appropriate to prevent excessive trading in Fund shares without providing prior notification to the account holder. Such action may include rejecting any purchase, in whole or part, including, without limitation, by a person whose trading activity in Fund shares may be deemed harmful to the Fund. While the Fund attempts to discourage such excessive trading, there can be no guarantee that they will be able to identify investors who are engaging in excessive trading or limit their trading practices. Additionally, frequent trades of small amounts may not be detected. The Fund recognizes that they may not always be able to detect or prevent excessive trading or other activity that may disadvantage the Fund or its shareholders.
Exchanging Shares
An exchange occurs when you use the proceeds from the redemption of shares of a Fund in the State Street Institutional Investment Trust to simultaneously purchase shares of a different Fund in the State Street Institutional Investment Trust. Currently, exchanging shares is allowed from/to the ILR Fund, State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund, and State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund. Effective October 12, 2016, exchanges from/to the ILR Fund is not permitted. Exchanges may be made within the same class ( i.e . Service Class shares for Service Class shares). The account holding the original shares must be registered in the same name as the account holding the new shares received in the exchange. You may make exchange requests by telephone, or by mail. See Purchasing Shares and Redeeming Shares. Exchanges are subject to the terms applicable to the purchases of the fund into which you are exchanging. Exchange privileges may not be available for mutual funds advised by SSGA FM (the State Street Funds) and may be suspended or rejected.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING PAYMENTS
The Service Class shares generally are sold to clients of financial intermediaries (Service Organizations), including affiliates of the Adviser, which have entered into shareholder servicing agreements with the Fund or Distributor. Service Organizations agree to perform certain shareholder servicing, administrative and accounting services for their clients and customers who are beneficial owners of shares of the Fund. The Fund will make payments to Service Organization provided at an annual rate of up to 0.05% of the Funds average daily net assets attributable to the Service Organization.
OTHER PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
Financial Intermediaries are firms that sell shares of mutual funds, including the Fund, for compensation and/or provide certain administrative and account maintenance services to mutual fund investors. Financial Intermediaries may include, among others, brokers, financial planners or advisers, banks, and insurance companies.
In some cases, a Financial Intermediary may hold its clients Fund Shares in nominee or street name. Shareholder services provided by a Financial Intermediary may (though they will not necessarily) include, among other things: processing and mailing trade confirmations, periodic statements, prospectuses, annual reports, semiannual reports, shareholder notices, and other SEC-required communications; capturing and processing tax data; issuing and mailing dividend checks to shareholders who have selected cash distributions; preparing record date shareholder lists for proxy solicitations; collecting and posting distributions to shareholder accounts; and establishing and maintaining systematic withdrawals and automated investment plans and shareholder account registrations.
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The compensation paid by the Distributor or its affiliates to a Financial Intermediary is typically paid continually over time, during the period when the Financial Intermediarys clients hold investments in the Fund. The amount of continuing compensation paid by the Distributor or its affiliates to different Financial Intermediaries for distribution and/or shareholder services varies. The compensation is typically a percentage of the value of the Financial Intermediarys clients investments in the Fund or a per account fee. The variation in compensation may, but will not necessarily, reflect enhanced or additional services provided by the Financial Intermediary.
SSGM and its affiliates (including SSGA FM), at their own expense and out of their own assets, may also provide other compensation to Financial Intermediaries in connection with sales of the Funds shares or the servicing of shareholders or shareholder accounts. Such compensation may include, but is not limited to, financial assistance to Financial Intermediaries in connection with conferences, sales, or training programs for their employees; seminars for the public; advertising or sales campaigns; or other Financial Intermediary-sponsored special events. In some instances, this compensation may be made available only to certain Financial Intermediaries whose representatives have sold or are expected to sell significant amounts of shares. Dealers may not use sales of the Funds shares to qualify for this compensation to the extent prohibited by the laws or rules of any state or any self-regulatory agency, such as the FINRA.
If payments to Financial Intermediaries by the distributor or adviser for a particular mutual fund complex exceed payments by other mutual fund complexes, your financial adviser and the Financial Intermediary employing him or her may have an incentive to recommend that fund complex over others. Please speak with your financial adviser to learn more about the total amounts paid to your financial adviser and his or her firm by the Distributor and its affiliates and by sponsors of other mutual funds he or she may recommend to you. You should also consult disclosures made by your Financial Intermediary at the time of purchase.
Third-Party Transactions. The State Street Funds have authorized certain Financial Intermediaries to accept purchase, redemption and exchange orders on the State Street Funds behalf. The Financial Intermediary is responsible for transmitting your purchase request and funds in good form and in a timely manner to the applicable State Street Fund(s). The State Street Funds will not be responsible for delays by the Financial Intermediary in transmitting your purchase request, including timely transfer of payment, to the Fund. Therefore, orders received for a State Street Fund by a Financial Intermediary that has been authorized to accept orders on the Funds behalf (or other Financial Intermediaries designated by the Financial Intermediary) prior to the time the Funds share price is determined will be deemed accepted by the Fund the same day and will be executed at that days closing share price.
If you are purchasing, selling, exchanging or holding State Street Fund shares through a program of services offered by a Financial Intermediary, you may be required by the Financial Intermediary to pay additional fees. You should contact the Financial Intermediary for information concerning what additional fees, if any, may be charged.
Delivery of Documents to Accounts Sharing an Address. To reduce expenses, we may mail only one copy of the Funds Prospectus and annual and semi-annual report to those addresses shared by two or more accounts. If you wish to receive individual copies of these documents, please call us at (877) 521-4083, or contact your financial institution. We will begin sending you individual copies thirty (30) days after receiving your request.
DIVIDENDS, DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The Fund intends to declare dividends on shares from net investment income daily and pay them as of the last business day of each month. Distributions from capital gains, if any, will be made annually in December. Income dividends and capital gains distributions will be paid in additional shares on the reinvestment date unless you have elected to receive them in cash. No interest will accrue on the amounts represented by uncashed distribution checks. If you have elected to receive distributions by check, and the postal or other delivery service is unable to deliver the checks because of an incorrect mailing address, or if a distribution check remains uncashed for six months, the uncashed distribution and all future distribution elections will be reinvested at the then-current NAV of the Fund.
The following discussion is a summary of some important U.S. federal tax considerations generally applicable to an investment in the Fund. Your investment in the Fund may have other tax implications. Please consult your tax advisor about federal, state, local, foreign or other tax laws applicable to you. Investors, including non-U.S. investors, may wish to consult the SAI tax section for additional disclosure.
The Fund invests substantially all of its investible assets in a Portfolio that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The nature and character of the Funds income, gains, losses and deductions generally will be determined at the Portfolio level, and the Fund will be allocated its share of the Portfolios income, gains, losses and deductions. As applicable, references in this
22
discussion to income, gains and losses of the Fund will be to income, gains and losses recognized and deductions accruing at the Portfolio level and allocated to or otherwise taken into account by the Fund, and references to assets of the Fund will be to the Funds allocable share of the assets of the Portfolio.
The Fund has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company and intends each year to qualify and to be eligible to be treated as such. A regulated investment company generally is not subject to tax at the corporate level on income and gains that are timely distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify and be eligible for treatment as a regulated investment company, the Fund must, among other things, satisfy diversification, 90% gross income and distribution requirements. The Funds failure to qualify as a regulated investment company would result in corporate level taxation, and consequently, a reduction in income available for distribution to shareholders.
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, distributions of investment income are generally taxable to you as ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains generally are determined by how long the Portfolio owned the investments that generated them, rather than how long you have owned your Fund Shares. Any net short-term gains the Fund distributes will be taxable to you as ordinary income. The Fund generally does not expect to make distributions that are eligible for taxation as long-term capital gains. Distributions are taxable whether you receive them in cash or reinvest them in additional shares.
When the NAV of Fund Shares varies from $1.00 per share, shareholders will realize a gain or loss upon the sale, exchange or redemption of such Fund Shares. Any gains resulting from the redemption of Fund Shares will generally be taxable to you as either short-term or long-term capital gain, depending upon how long you have held such Fund Shares.
The IRS has issued final regulations and published guidance that permit a simplified method of accounting for gains and losses realized upon the disposition of money market fund shares. Shareholders should see the SAI for further information.
A 3.8% Medicare contribution tax is imposed on the net investment income of individuals, estates and trusts to the extent their income exceeds certain threshold amounts. Net investment income generally includes for this purpose dividends paid by the Fund, including any capital gain dividends, and net gains recognized on the redemption of shares of the Fund.
If you are not a U.S. person, dividends paid by the Fund that the Fund properly reports as capital gain dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, or interest-related dividends, each as further defined in the SAI, are not subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax, provided that certain other requirements are met. The Fund is permitted, but is not required, to report any part of its dividends as are eligible for such treatment. The Funds dividends other than those the Fund so reports as capital gain dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, or interest-related dividends generally will be subject to a U.S. withholding tax at the 30% rate (or lower applicable treaty rate). See the Funds SAI for further information.
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The Service Class shares of the Fund had not commenced operations prior to the date of this Prospectus and therefore do not have financial information.
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For more information about the Fund:
The Funds SAI includes additional information about the Fund and is incorporated by reference into this document. Additional information about the Funds investments is available, or will be available, in the Funds most recent annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. The Funds SAI is available, without charge, upon request. The Funds annual and semi-annual reports are available, or will be available, without charge, upon request. Shareholders in the Fund may make inquiries to the Fund to receive such information by calling (877) 521-4083 or the customer service center at the telephone number shown in the accompanying contract prospectus, if applicable.
Information about the Fund (including the SAI) can be reviewed and copied at the SECs Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-202-551-8090. Reports and other information about the Fund are available free of charge on the EDGAR Database on the SECs Internet site at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of this information also may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following E-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov, or by writing the SECs Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520.
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.
STATE STREET FINANCIAL CENTER
ONE LINCOLN STREET
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02111
ILRSERVTATPRO |
The State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Investment Company Act File Number is 811-09819. |
Prospectus
Dated August 26, 2016
State Street Institutional
Investment Trust
Neuberger Berman Money Fund
A Private Label of the Premier Class Shares of the
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund (SSIXX)
Advised by SSGA Funds Management, Inc.,
a subsidiary of State Street Corporation
The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus.
Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
An investment in the Fund offered by this Prospectus is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.
The Fund may offer multiple classes of shares. This Prospectus covers only the Premier Class shares.
Effective October 12, 2016, State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund is a floating net asset value money market fund. The share price of this Fund will fluctuate beginning on that date.
None of State Street Corporation, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Global Advisors, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. or their affiliates (State Street Entities) guarantee the value of your investment at $1.00 per share. Investors should have no expectation of capital support to the Fund from State Street Entities.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 | ||
1 | ||
Additional Information About Investment Objectives, Principal Strategies and Risks |
7 | |
Additional Information About Non-Principal Investment Strategies and Risks |
13 | |
14 | ||
15 | ||
16 | ||
21 | ||
22 | ||
24 |
Investment Objective
The investment objective of State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund (the ILR Fund or sometimes referred to in context as the Fund) is to seek to maximize current income, to the extent consistent with the preservation of capital and liquidity, by investing in U.S. dollar-denominated money market securities.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the ILR Fund (Fund Shares). The expenses shown in the table and the Example reflect the expenses of the Fund and the Funds proportionate share of the expenses of the State Street Money Market Portfolio (the Money Market Portfolio or sometimes referred to in context as the Portfolio).
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price) |
None | |||
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of the lower of the sale proceeds or the original offering price) |
None |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Management Fee |
0.05 | % | ||
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees |
0.00 | % | ||
Other Expenses |
0.07 | % | ||
|
|
|||
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses 1 |
0.12 | % | ||
|
|
1 |
The Funds investment adviser, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the Adviser or SSGA FM), may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid a negative yield (the Voluntary Reduction), or a yield below a specified level, which may vary from time to time in the Advisers sole discretion. The Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2012. As of December 31, 2015, the Adviser had not waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses under the Voluntary Reduction. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund. Any future reimbursement by the Fund of the Voluntary Reduction would increase the Funds expenses and reduce the Funds yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. |
Example:
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated, and then sell all of your Fund Shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 year | 3 years | 5 years | 10 years | |||||||||||
$ | 12 | $ | 39 | $ | 68 | $ | 154 |
Principal Investment Strategies
The ILR Fund follows a disciplined investment process in which SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (SSGA FM or the Adviser), the investment adviser to the Fund, bases its decisions on the relative attractiveness of different money market instruments. In the Advisers opinion, the attractiveness of an instrument may vary depending on the general level of interest rates, as well as imbalances of supply and demand in the market. The Fund invests in accordance with regulatory requirements applicable to money market funds, which require, among other things, the Fund to invest only in short-term, high quality debt obligations (generally, securities that have remaining maturities of 397 calendar days or less and either have been rated in one of the two highest short-term rating categories or are considered by the Fund to be of comparable quality), to maintain a maximum dollar-weighted average maturity of sixty (60) days or less, and to meet requirements as to portfolio diversification and liquidity.
The Fund currently seeks to maintain a stable net asset value (NAV) per share of $1.00 by valuing its portfolio securities using amortized cost. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will continue to be a money market fund and the NAV of the Funds shares will float, fluctuating with changes in the values of the Funds portfolio securities. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will typically accept purchase and redemption orders multiple times per day, and calculate its NAV at each such time.
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The Fund attempts to meet its investment objective by investing in a broad range of money market instruments. These may include among other things: U.S. government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds and other securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest, as applicable, by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposits and time deposits of U.S. and foreign banks (including ECDs, ETDs and YCDs (as defined below); commercial paper and other high quality obligations of U.S. or foreign companies; asset-backed securities, including asset-backed commercial paper; mortgage-related securities; and repurchase agreements. These instruments may bear fixed, variable or floating rates of interest or may be zero-coupon securities. The Fund also may invest in shares of other money market funds, including funds advised by the Adviser. Under normal market conditions, the Fund intends to invest more than 25% of its total assets in bank obligations. A substantial portion of the Fund may be invested in securities that are issued or traded pursuant to exemptions from registration under the federal securities laws.
European Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by a bank outside of the United States. European Time Deposits (ETDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks. Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. These instruments have different risks than those associated with the obligations of U.S. banks operating in the United States.
The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Money Market Portfolio, which has substantially similar investment policies to the Fund. When the Fund invests in this master-feeder structure, the Funds only investments are shares of the Portfolio, and it participates in the investment returns achieved by the Portfolio. Descriptions in this section of the investment activities of the Fund also generally describe the expected investment activities of the Portfolio.
Principal Risks
You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or any other government agency . Although the Fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, the paragraph above is replaced by the paragraph below:
You could lose money by investing in the Fund. Under new requirements for money market funds, beginning October 12, 2016, the Fund will no longer buy and sell its shares at a fixed NAV per share, but will instead buy and sell its shares using a floating NAV reflecting the current market-based values of its portfolio holdings. Because the share price of the Fund will fluctuate, when you sell your shares they may be worth more or less than what you originally paid for them. The Fund may impose a fee upon the sale of your shares or may temporarily suspend your ability to sell shares if the Funds liquidity falls below required minimums because of market conditions or other factors. An investment in the Fund is subject to investment risks, including possible loss of principal, is not a deposit in a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The Funds sponsor has no legal obligation to provide financial support to the Fund, and you should not expect that the sponsor will provide financial support to the Fund at any time.
General risks associated with the Funds and the Portfolios investment policies and investment strategies are discussed below.
Counterparty Risk: The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties with which the Fund enters into repurchase agreements and other transactions. If a counterparty fails to meet its contractual obligations, the Fund may be unable to terminate the transaction, and it may be delayed or prevented from realizing on any collateral in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding relating to the counterparty.
Debt Securities Risk: The values of debt securities may increase or decrease as a result of the following: market fluctuations, increases in interest rates, actual or perceived inability or unwillingness of issuers, guarantors or liquidity providers to make scheduled principal or interest payments or illiquidity in debt securities markets; the risk of low rates of return due to reinvestment of securities during periods of falling interest rates or repayment by issuers with higher coupon or interest rates; and/or the risk of low income due to falling interest rates. To the extent that interest rates rise, certain underlying obligations may be paid off substantially slower than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. A rising interest rate environment may cause the value of the Funds fixed income securities to decrease, an adverse impact on the liquidity of the Funds fixed
2
income securities, and increased volatility of the fixed income markets. If the principal on a debt obligation is prepaid before expected, the prepayments of principal may have to be reinvested in obligations paying interest at lower rates. During periods of falling interest rates, the income received by the Fund may decline. Changes in interest rates will likely have a greater effect on the values of debt securities of longer durations. Returns on investments in debt securities could trail the returns on other investment options, including investments in equity securities.
Financial Institutions Risk: Changes in the creditworthiness of financial institutions (such as banks and broker-dealers) may adversely affect the values of instruments of issuers in financial industries. Adverse developments in banking and other financial industries may cause the Fund to underperform relative to other funds that invest more broadly across different industries or have a smaller exposure to financial institutions. Changes in governmental regulation and oversight of financial institutions may have an adverse effect on the financial condition of a financial institution.
Income Risk: The Funds income may decline due to falling interest rates or other factors. Issuers of securities held by the Fund may call or redeem the securities during periods of falling interest rates, and the Fund would likely be required to reinvest in securities paying lower interest rates. If an obligation held by the Fund is prepaid, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayment in other obligations paying income at lower rates.
Large Shareholder Risk: To the extent a large proportion of the interests of the Portfolio are held by a small number of investors (or a single investor), including funds or accounts over which the Adviser has investment discretion, the Portfolio is subject to the risk that these investors will purchase or redeem Portfolio interests in large amounts rapidly or unexpectedly, including as a result of an asset allocation decision made by the Adviser. These transactions could adversely affect the ability of the Portfolio to conduct its investment program.
Liquidity Risk: Lack of a ready market or restrictions on resale may limit the ability of the Fund to sell a security at an advantageous time or price or at all. Illiquid securities may trade at a discount from comparable, more liquid investments and may be subject to wide fluctuations in market value. Illiquidity of the Funds holdings may limit the ability of the Fund to obtain cash to meet redemptions on a timely basis. In addition, the Fund, due to limitations on investments in any illiquid securities and/or the difficulty in purchasing and selling such investments, may be unable to achieve its desired level of exposure to a certain market or sector.
Low Short-Term Interest Rates: At the date of this Prospectus, short-term interest rates are at historically low levels, and so the Funds yield is very low. It is possible that the Fund will generate an insufficient amount of income to pay its expenses, and that it will not be able to pay a daily dividend and may have a negative yield (i.e., it may lose money on an operating basis). It is possible that the Fund will maintain a substantial portion of its assets in cash, on which it would earn little, if any, income.
Market Risk: The Funds investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, and general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities markets. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors including, but not limited to, economic growth or recession, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived creditworthiness of issuers, and general market liquidity. The Fund is subject to the risk that geopolitical events will disrupt securities markets and adversely affect global economies and markets.
Master/Feeder Structure Risk : The Fund pursues its objective by investing substantially all of its assets in another pooled investment vehicle (a master fund). The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the ability of the master fund to meet its investment objective. The Adviser serves as investment adviser to the master fund, leading to potential conflicts of interest. The Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the expenses incurred by the master fund. Substantial redemptions by other investors in a master fund may affect the master funds investment program adversely and limit the ability of the master fund to achieve its objective.
Money Market Fund Regulatory Risk: In July 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted regulatory changes that will affect the structure and operation of money market funds. The revised regulations impose new liquidity requirements on money market funds, permit (and in some cases require) money market funds to impose liquidity fees on redemptions, and permit money market funds to impose gates restricting redemptions from the funds. Institutional money market funds will be required to have a floating NAV. (U.S. government money market funds are exempt from a number of the new regulations.) There are a number of other changes under the revised regulations that relate to diversification, disclosure, reporting and stress testing requirements. These changes and other proposed amendments to the regulations governing money market funds could significantly affect the money market fund industry generally and the operation or performance of the Fund specifically and may have significant adverse effects on a money market funds investment return and on the liquidity of investments in money market funds.
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Money Market Risk: An investment in a money market fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Although a money market fund generally seeks to preserve the value of its shares at $1.00 per share, there can be no assurance that it will do so, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund. A major or unexpected increase in interest rates or a decline in the credit quality of an issuer or entity providing credit support, an inactive trading market for money market instruments, or adverse market, economic, industry, political, regulatory, geopolitical, and other conditions could cause a money market funds share price to fall below $1.00. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will not maintain a constant net asset value per share. Beginning at that time, the value of the Funds shares will be calculated to four decimal places and will vary reflecting the value of the portfolio of investments held by the Fund. It is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.
Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk: Investments in mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to the risk of significant credit downgrades, illiquidity, and defaults to a greater extent than many other types of fixed-income investments. During periods of falling interest rates, mortgage- and asset-backed securities may be called or prepaid, which may result in the Fund having to reinvest proceeds in other investments at a lower interest rate. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of mortgage- and asset-backed securities may extend, which may lock in a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and interest rate sensitivity, and reduce the value of the security. Enforcing rights against the underlying assets or collateral may be difficult, and the underlying assets or collateral may be insufficient if the issuer defaults.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk: Non-U.S. securities (including depositary receipts) are subject to political, regulatory, and economic risks not present in domestic investments. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. entity than about a U.S. entity, and many non-U.S. entities are not subject to accounting, auditing, legal and financial report standards comparable to those in the United States. Further, such entities and/or their securities may be subject to risks associated with currency controls; expropriation; changes in tax policy; greater market volatility; differing securities market structures; higher transaction costs; and various administrative difficulties, such as delays in clearing and settling portfolio transactions or in receiving payment of dividends. Securities traded on foreign markets may be less liquid (harder to sell) than securities traded domestically. Foreign governments may impose restrictions on the repatriation of capital to the U.S. In addition, to the extent investments are made in a limited number of countries, events in those countries will have a more significant impact on the Fund. Investments in depositary receipts may be less liquid and more volatile than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.
Rapid Changes in Interest Rates Risk: Rapid changes in interest rates may cause significant requests to redeem Fund Shares, and possibly cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities at a loss to satisfy those requests.
Repurchase Agreement Risk: Repurchase agreements may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. If the Funds counterparty should default on its obligations and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the collateral, or if the value of the collateral is insufficient, the Fund may realize a loss.
U.S. Government Securities Risk: Certain U.S. Government securities are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States; others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agencys obligations; and still others are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency, instrumentality, or enterprise. Although U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) may be chartered or sponsored by Congress, they are not funded by Congressional appropriations, and their securities are not issued by the U.S. Treasury, are not supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, and involve increased credit risks.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities Risk: During periods of increasing interest rates, changes in the coupon rates of variable or floating rate securities may lag behind the changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in coupon rates. Alternatively, during periods of declining interest rates, the coupon rates on such securities will typically readjust downward resulting in a lower yield. In addition, investment in derivative variable rate securities, such as inverse floaters, whose rates vary inversely with market rates of interest, or range floaters or capped floaters, whose rates are subject to periodic or lifetime caps, or in securities that pay a rate of interest determined by applying a multiple to the variable rate involves special risks as compared to investment in a fixed-rate security and may involve leverage.
Zero Coupon Bond Risk: Zero-coupon bonds usually trade at a deep discount from their face or par values and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current distributions of interest.
4
Performance
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the ILR Fund by illustrating the variability of the Funds returns for Premier Class shares from year-to-year. The Funds past performance does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Current performance information for the Fund is available toll free by calling (877) 521-4083 or by visiting our website at www.ssga.com/cash.
Annual Total Returns (years ended 12/31)
Highest Quarterly Return: 1.33% (Q4, 2006)
Lowest Quarterly Return: 0.02% (Q1, 2015)
Average Annual Total Returns (for periods ended 12/31/15)
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund |
1-Year | 5-Years | 10-Years |
Inception
Date |
||||||||||||
Premier Class |
0.12 | % | 0.13 | % | 1.43 | % | 8/12/2004 |
To obtain the Funds current yield, please call (877) 521-4083.
Investment Adviser
SSGA FM serves as the investment adviser to the Fund.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
Purchase Minimums
To establish an account |
$500,000,000 | |
To add to an existing account |
No minimum |
You may purchase or redeem Fund Shares on any day the Fund is open for business.
You may purchase or redeem Fund Shares by written request or wire transfer. Written requests should be sent to:
By Mail:
Send a signed letter to:
Neuberger Berman Funds
c/o State Street Institutional Trust Funds
P.O. Box 8048
Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048
By Overnight:
Send a signed letter to:
Neuberger Berman Funds
c/o State Street Institutional Trust Funds
30 Dan Road
Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809
By Telephone:
For wire transfer instructions, please call (800) 877-9700 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Eastern time. Redemptions by telephone are permitted only if you previously have been authorized for these transactions.
5
If you wish to purchase or redeem Fund Shares through a broker, bank or other financial intermediary (Financial Intermediary), please contact that Financial Intermediary directly. Your Financial Intermediary may have different or additional requirements for opening an account and/or for the processing of purchase and redemption orders, or may be closed at times when the Fund is open.
Tax Information
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Funds distributions are generally taxed as ordinary income, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or individual retirement account. Any withdrawals made from such tax-advantaged arrangement may be taxable to you.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
If you purchase Fund Shares through a broker-dealer or other Financial Intermediary (such as a bank), the Adviser or its affiliates may pay the Financial Intermediary for certain activities related to the Fund, including educational training programs, conferences, the development of technology platforms and reporting systems, or other services related to the sale or promotion of the Fund. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your Financial Intermediarys website for more information.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES, PRINCIPAL STRATEGIES AND RISKS
Investment Objective
The investment objective of the ILR Fund, as stated in the Fund Summary, may be changed without shareholder approval.
Principal Investment Strategies
The ILR Fund follows a disciplined investment process in which SSGA FM bases its decisions on the relative attractiveness of different money market instruments. In the Advisers opinion, the attractiveness of an instrument may vary depending on the general level of interest rates, as well as imbalances of supply and demand in the market. The Fund invests in accordance with regulatory requirements applicable to money market funds, which require, among other things, the Fund to invest only in short-term, high quality debt obligations (generally, securities that have remaining maturities of 397 calendar days or less and either have been rated in one of the two highest short-term rating categories or are considered by the Fund to be of comparable quality), to maintain a maximum dollar-weighted average maturity of sixty (60) days or less, and to meet requirements as to portfolio diversification and liquidity.
The Fund currently seeks to maintain a stable net asset value (NAV) per share of $1.00 by valuing its portfolio securities using amortized cost. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will continue to be a money market fund and the NAV of the Funds shares will float, fluctuating with changes in the values of the Funds portfolio securities. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will typically accept purchase and redemption orders multiple times per day, and calculate its NAV at each such time.
The Fund attempts to meet its investment objective by investing in a broad range of money market instruments. These may include among other things: U.S. government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds and other securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest, as applicable, by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposits and time deposits of U.S. and foreign banks (including ECDs, ETDs and YCDs (as defined below); commercial paper and other high quality obligations of U.S. or foreign companies; asset-backed securities, including asset-backed commercial paper; mortgage-related securities; and repurchase agreements. These instruments may bear fixed, variable or floating rates of interest or may be zero-coupon securities. The Fund also may invest in shares of other money market funds, including funds advised by the Adviser. Under normal market conditions, the Fund intends to invest more than 25% of its total assets in bank obligations. A substantial portion of the Fund may be invested in securities that are issued or traded pursuant to exemptions from registration under the federal securities laws.
European Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by a bank outside of the United States. European Time Deposits (ETDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks. Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. These instruments have different risks than those associated with the obligations of U.S. banks operating in the United States.
The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Money Market Portfolio, which has substantially similar investment policies to the Fund. When the Fund invests in this master-feeder structure, the Funds only investments are shares of the Portfolio, and it participates in the investment returns achieved by the Portfolio. Descriptions in this section of the investment activities of the Fund also generally describe the expected investment activities of the Portfolio.
Additional Information About Risks
Call/Prepayment Risk . Call/prepayment risk is the risk that an issuer will exercise its right to pay principal on an obligation held by the Fund earlier than expected or required. This may occur, for example, when there is a decline in interest rates, and an issuer of bonds or preferred stock redeems the bonds or stock in order to replace them with obligations on which it is required to pay a lower interest or dividend rate. It may also occur when there is an unanticipated increase in the rate at which mortgages or other receivables underlying mortgage- or asset-backed securities held by the Fund are prepaid. In any such case, the Fund may be forced to invest the prepaid amounts in lower-yielding investments, resulting in a decline in the Funds income.
Counterparty Risk . The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties with which the Fund enters into repurchase agreements and other transactions. If a counterparty fails to meet its contractual obligations, the Fund may be unable to terminate the transaction, and it may be delayed or prevented from realizing on any collateral in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding relating to the counterparty.
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Credit Risk . Credit risk is the risk that an issuer, guarantor or liquidity provider of a fixed-income security held by the Fund may be unable or unwilling, or may be perceived (whether by market participants, ratings agencies, pricing services or otherwise) as unable or unwilling, to make timely principal and/or interest payments, or to otherwise honor its obligations. It includes the risk that the security will be downgraded by a credit rating agency; generally, lower credit quality issuers present higher credit risks. An actual or perceived decline in creditworthiness of an issuer of a fixed-income security held by the Fund may result in a decrease in the value of the security. It is possible that the ability of an issuer to meet its obligations will decline substantially during the period when the Fund owns securities of the issuer or that the issuer will default on its obligations or that the obligations of the issuer will be limited or restructured.
The credit rating assigned to any particular investment does not necessarily reflect the issuers current financial condition and does not reflect an assessment of an investments volatility or liquidity. Securities rated in the lowest category of investment grade are considered to have speculative characteristics. If a security held by the Fund loses its rating or its rating is downgraded, the Fund may nonetheless continue to hold the security in the discretion of the Adviser. In the case of asset-backed or mortgage-related securities, changes in the actual or perceived ability of the obligors on the underlying assets or mortgages to make payments of interest and/or principal may affect the values of those securities.
Debt Securities Risk . The values of debt securities may increase or decrease as a result of the following: market fluctuations, increases in interest rates, actual or perceived inability or unwillingness of issuers, guarantors or liquidity providers to make scheduled principal or interest payments or illiquidity in debt securities markets; the risk of low rates of return due to reinvestment of securities during periods of falling interest rates or repayment by issuers with higher coupon or interest rates; and/or the risk of low income due to falling interest rates. To the extent that interest rates rise, certain underlying obligations may be paid off substantially slower than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. A rising interest rate environment may cause the value of the Funds fixed income securities to decrease, an adverse impact on the liquidity of the Funds fixed income securities, and increased volatility of the fixed income markets. If the principal on a debt obligation is prepaid before expected, the prepayments of principal may have to be reinvested in obligations paying interest at lower rates. During periods of falling interest rates, the income received by the Fund may decline. Changes in interest rates will likely have a greater effect on the values of debt securities of longer durations. Returns on investments in debt securities could trail the returns on other investment options, including investments in equity securities.
Extension Risk. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of slower-than-expected principal payments. This may increase the period of time during which an investment earns a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and reduce the value of the security. Extension risk may be heightened during periods of adverse economic conditions generally, as payment rates decline due to higher unemployment levels and other factors.
Financial Institutions Risk . Some instruments are issued or guaranteed by financial institutions, such as banks and brokers, or are collateralized by securities issued or guaranteed by financial institutions. Changes in the creditworthiness of any of these institutions may adversely affect the values of instruments of issuers in financial industries. Financial institutions may be particularly sensitive to certain economic factors such as interest rate changes, adverse developments in the real estate market, fiscal and monetary policy and general economic cycles. Adverse developments in banking and other financial industries may cause the Fund to underperform relative to other funds that invest more broadly across different industries or have a smaller exposure to financial institutions. Changes in governmental regulation and oversight of financial institutions may have an adverse effect on the financial condition or the earnings or operations of a financial institution and on the types and amounts of businesses in which a financial institution may engage. An investor may be delayed or prevented from exercising certain remedies against a financial institution. The amount of the Funds assets that may be invested in any financial institution, or financial institutions generally, may be limited by applicable law.
Income Risk. The Funds income may decline due to falling interest rates or other factors. Issuers of securities held by the Fund may call or redeem the securities during periods of falling interest rates, and the Fund would likely be required to reinvest in securities paying lower interest rates. If an obligation held by the Fund is prepaid, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayment in other obligations paying income at lower rates. A reduction in the income earned by the Fund may limit the Funds ability to achieve its objective.
Interest Rate Risk . Interest rate risk is the risk that the securities held by the Fund will decline in value because of increases in market interest rates. Debt securities with longer durations tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates, usually making them more volatile than debt securities with shorter durations. For example, the value of a security with a duration of five years would be expected to decrease by 5% for every 1% increase in interest rates. Falling interest rates also create the potential for a decline in the Funds income and yield. Interest-only and principal-only securities are especially sensitive to interest rate changes, which can affect
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not only their prices but can also change the income flows and repayment assumptions about those investments. Variable and floating rate securities also generally increase or decrease in value in response to changes in interest rates, although generally to a lesser degree than fixed-rate securities. A substantial increase in interest rates may also have an adverse impact on the liquidity of a security, especially those with longer durations. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. Changes in governmental policy, including changes in central bank monetary policy, could cause interest rates to rise rapidly, or cause investors to expect a rapid rise in interest rates. This could lead to heightened levels of interest rate, volatility and liquidity risks for the fixed income markets generally and could have a substantial and immediate effect on the values of the Funds investments.
Large Shareholder Risk . To the extent a large proportion of the interests of the Portfolio are highly concentrated or held by a small number of investors (or a single investor), including funds or accounts over which the Adviser has investment discretion, the Portfolio is subject to the risk that these investors will purchase or redeem Portfolio interests in large amounts rapidly or unexpectedly, including as a result of an asset allocation decision made by the Adviser. These transactions could adversely affect the ability of the Portfolio to conduct its investment program. For example, they could require the Portfolio to sell portfolio securities or purchase portfolio securities unexpectedly and incur substantial transaction costs and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and/or gains to investors, or the Portfolio may be required to sell its more liquid portfolio investments to meet a large redemption, in which case the Portfolios remaining assets may be less liquid, more volatile, and more difficult to price. The Portfolio may hold a relatively large proportion of its assets in cash in anticipation of large redemptions, diluting its investment returns.
Liquidity Risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Fund may not be able to dispose of securities or close out derivatives transactions readily at a favorable time or prices (or at all) or at prices approximating those at which the Fund currently values them. For example, certain investments may be subject to restrictions on resale, may trade in the over-the-counter market or in limited volume, or may not have an active trading market. Illiquid securities may trade at a discount from comparable, more liquid investments and may be subject to wide fluctuations in market value. It may be difficult for the Fund to value illiquid securities accurately. The market for certain investments may become illiquid under adverse market or economic conditions independent of any specific adverse changes in the conditions of a particular issuer. Disposal of illiquid securities may entail registration expenses and other transaction costs that are higher than those for liquid securities. The Fund may seek to borrow money to meet its obligations (including among other things redemption obligations) if it is unable to dispose of illiquid investments, resulting in borrowing expenses and possible leveraging of the Fund. In some cases, due to unanticipated levels of illiquidity the Fund may choose to meet its redemption obligations wholly or in part by distributions of assets in-kind.
Low Short-Term Interest Rate Risk . At the date of this Prospectus, short-term interest rates are at historically low levels, and so the Funds yield is very low. It is possible that the Fund will generate an insufficient amount of income to pay its expenses, and that it will not be able to pay a daily dividend and may have a negative yield (i.e., it may lose money on an operating basis). It is possible that the Fund will maintain a substantial portion of its assets in cash, on which it would earn little, if any, income.
Market Disruption and Geopolitical Risk. The Fund is subject to the risk that geopolitical events will disrupt securities markets and adversely affect global economies and markets. War, terrorism, and related geopolitical events have led, and in the future may lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on U.S. and world economies and markets generally. Likewise, natural and environmental disasters and systemic market dislocations may be highly disruptive to economies and markets. Those events as well as other changes in foreign and domestic economic and political conditions also could adversely affect individual issuers or related groups of issuers, securities markets, interest rates, credit ratings, inflation, investor sentiment, and other factors affecting the value of the Funds investments. Given the increasing interdependence among global economies and markets, conditions in one country, market, or region might adversely affect markets, issuers, and/or foreign exchange rates in other countries, including the U.S. Any partial or complete dissolution of the European Monetary Union, or any increased uncertainty as to its status, could have significant adverse effects on currency and financial markets, and on the values of the Funds investments. Securities and financial markets may be susceptible to market manipulation or other fraudulent trade practices, which could disrupt the orderly functioning of these markets or adversely affect the values of investments traded in these markets, including investments held by the Fund. To the extent the Fund has focused its investments in the market or index of a particular region, adverse geopolitical and other events could have a disproportionate impact on the Fund.
Market Risk . Market prices of investments held by the Fund will go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably. The Funds investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities markets. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors including, but not limited to, economic growth or recession, changes in interest rates, changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness of issuers and general market liquidity. Even if general economic conditions do not change, the value of an investment in the Fund
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could decline if the particular industries, sectors or companies in which the Fund invests do not perform well or are adversely affected by events. Further, legal, political, regulatory and tax changes also may cause fluctuations in markets and securities prices.
Market Volatility; Government Intervention Risk. Market dislocations and other external events, such as the failures or near failures of significant financial institutions, dislocations in investment or currency markets, corporate or governmental defaults or credit downgrades, or poor collateral performance, may subject the Fund to significant risk of substantial volatility and loss. Governmental and regulatory authorities have taken, and may in the future take, actions to provide or arrange credit supports to financial institutions whose operations have been compromised by credit market dislocations and to restore liquidity and stability to financial systems in their jurisdictions; the implementation of such governmental interventions and their impact on both the markets generally and the Funds investment program in particular can be uncertain. In recent periods, governmental and non-governmental issuers have defaulted on, or have been forced to restructure, their debts, and many other issuers have faced difficulties obtaining credit. These market conditions may continue, worsen or spread, including, without limitation, in Europe or Asia. Defaults or restructurings by governments or others of their debts could have substantial adverse effects on economies, financial markets, and asset valuations around the world. In recent periods, financial regulators, including the U.S. Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank, have taken steps to maintain historically low interest rates, such as by purchasing bonds. Some governmental authorities have taken steps to devalue their currencies substantially or have taken other steps to counter actual or anticipated market or other developments. Steps by those regulators to implement, or to curtail or taper, such activities could have substantial negative effects on financial markets. The withdrawal of support, failure of efforts in response to a financial crisis, or investor perception that these efforts are not succeeding could negatively affect financial markets generally as well as the values and liquidity of certain securities.
Master/Feeder Structure Risk. The Fund pursues its objective by investing substantially all of its assets in another pooled investment vehicle (a master fund or Portfolio). The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the ability of the master fund to meet its investment objective. The ability of the Fund to meet its objective may be adversely affected by the purchase and redemption activities of other investors in the master fund. The ability of the Fund to meet redemption requests will depend on its ability to redeem its interest in the master fund. The Adviser or an affiliate serves as investment adviser to the master fund, leading to potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates will receive fees based on the amount of assets invested in the master fund. Investment by the Fund in the master fund may be beneficial in the management of the master fund, by helping to achieve economies of scale or enhancing cash flows. Due to this and other factors, the Adviser may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates in lieu of investments by the Fund directly in portfolio securities, or may have an incentive to invest in such master fund over a master fund sponsored or managed by others. Similarly, the Adviser may have an incentive to delay or decide against the sale of interests held by the Fund in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. It is possible that other clients of the Adviser or its affiliates will purchase or sell interests in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates at prices and at times more favorable than those at which the Fund does so. The Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the expenses incurred by the master fund.
Money Market Fund Regulatory Risk . In July 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted regulatory changes that will affect the structure and operation of money market funds. The revised regulations impose new liquidity requirements on money market funds, permit (and in some cases require) money market funds to impose liquidity fees on redemptions, and permit money market funds to impose gates restricting redemptions from the funds. Institutional money market funds will be required to have a floating NAV. (U.S. government money market funds are exempt from a number of the new regulations.) There are a number of other changes under the revised regulations that relate to diversification, disclosure, reporting and stress testing requirements. These changes and other proposed amendments to the regulations governing money market funds could significantly affect the money market fund industry generally.
Money Market Risk . An investment in a money market fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Although a money market fund generally seeks to preserve the value of its shares at $1.00 per share, there can be no assurance that it will do so, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund. A major or unexpected increase in interest rates or a decline in the credit quality of an issuer or entity providing credit support, an inactive trading market for money market instruments, or adverse market, economic, industry, political, regulatory, geopolitical, and other conditions could cause a money market funds share price to fall below $1.00. It is possible that a money market fund will issue and redeem shares at $1.00 per share at times when the fair value of the money market funds portfolio per share is more or less than $1.00. Recent changes in the regulation of money market funds may affect the operations and structures of such funds. A money market fund may be permitted or required to impose redemption fees or to impose limitations on redemptions during periods of high illiquidity in the markets for the investments held by it. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will not maintain a constant net asset value per share. Beginning at that time, the value of the Funds shares will be calculated to four decimal places and will vary reflecting the value of the portfolio of investments held by the Fund. It is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund. None of
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State Street Corporation, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Global Advisors (SSGA), SSGA FM or their affiliates (State Street Entities) guarantee the value of an investment in a money market fund at $1.00 per share. Investors should have no expectation of capital support to a money market fund from State Street Entities.
Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk. Investments in mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to the risk of significant credit downgrades, illiquidity, and defaults to a greater extent than many other types of fixed income investments. Mortgage-related securities represent a participation in, or are secured by, mortgage loans. Other asset-backed securities are typically structured like mortgage-related securities, but instead of mortgage loans or interests in mortgage loans, the underlying assets may include, for example, items such as motor vehicle installment sales or installment loan contracts, leases on various types of real and personal property, and receivables from credit card agreements. During periods of falling interest rates, mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities, which typically provide the issuer with the right to prepay the security prior to maturity, may be prepaid, which may result in the Fund having to reinvest the proceeds in other investments at lower interest rates. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may extend because of slower-than expected principal payments. This may lock in a below market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and interest rate sensitivity, and reduce the value of the security. As a result, mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may have less potential for capital appreciation during periods of declining interest rates than other debt securities of comparable maturities, although they may have a similar risk of decline in market values during periods of rising interest rates. Prepayment rates are difficult to predict and the potential impact of prepayments on the value of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security depends on the terms of the instrument and can result in significant volatility. The price of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security also depends on the credit quality and adequacy of the underlying assets or collateral. Defaults on the underlying assets, if any, may impair the value of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security. For some asset-backed securities in which the Fund invests, such as those backed by credit card receivables, the underlying cash flows may not be supported by a security interest in a related asset. Moreover, the values of mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may be substantially dependent on the servicing of the underlying asset pools, and are therefore subject to risks associated with the negligence or malfeasance by their servicers and to the credit risk of their servicers. In certain situations, the mishandling of related documentation may also affect the rights of securities holders in and to the underlying collateral. There may be legal and practical limitations on the enforceability of any security interest granted with respect to underlying assets, or the value of the underlying assets, if any, may be insufficient if the issuer defaults.
In a forward roll transaction, the Fund will sell a mortgage-related security to a bank or other permitted entity and simultaneously agree to purchase a similar security from the institution at a later date at an agreed upon price. The mortgage securities that are purchased will bear the same interest rate as those sold, but generally will be collateralized by different pools of mortgages with different prepayment histories than those sold. The values of such transactions will be affected by many of the same factors that affect the values of mortgage-related securities generally. In addition, forward roll transactions may have the effect of creating investment leverage in the Fund.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk . Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers (including depositary receipts) entail risks not typically associated with investing in securities of U.S. issuers. Similar risks may apply to securities traded on a U.S. securities exchange that are issued by entities with significant exposure to non-U.S. countries. In certain countries, legal remedies available to investors may be more limited than those available with regard to U.S. investments. Income and gains with respect to investments in certain countries may be subject to withholding and other taxes. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. entity than about a U.S. entity, and many non-U.S. entities are not subject to accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards, regulatory framework and practices comparable to those in the United States. The securities of some non-U.S. entities are less liquid and at times more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. entities, and could become subject to sanctions or embargoes that adversely affect the Funds investment. Non-U.S. transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions and custody costs may be higher than in the U.S. In addition, there may be a possibility of nationalization or expropriation of assets, imposition of currency exchange controls, confiscatory taxation, and diplomatic developments that could adversely affect the values of the Funds investments in certain non-U.S. countries. Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers also are subject to foreign political and economic risk not associated with U.S. investments, meaning that political events (civil unrest, national elections, changes in political conditions and foreign relations, imposition of exchange controls and repatriation restrictions), social and economic events (labor strikes, rising inflation) and natural disasters occurring in a country where the Fund invests could cause the Funds investments in that country to experience gains or losses.
Rapid Changes in Interest Rates . The values of most instruments held by the Fund are adversely affected by changes in interest rates generally, especially increases in interest rates. Rapid changes in interest rates may cause significant requests to redeem Fund Shares, and possibly cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities at a loss to satisfy those requests. Significant losses would negatively affect the Funds returns and could impair the Funds ability to maintain a stable share price of $1.00.
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Reinvestment Risk. Income from the Funds portfolio may decline when the Fund invests the proceeds from investment income, sales of portfolio securities or matured, traded or called debt obligations. For instance, during periods of declining interest rates, an issuer of debt obligations may exercise an option to redeem securities prior to maturity, forcing the Fund to reinvest the proceeds in lower-yielding securities. A decline in income received by the Fund from its investments is likely to have a negative effect on the yield and total return of the Fund Shares.
Repurchase Agreement Risk . A repurchase agreement is an agreement to buy a security from a seller at one price and a simultaneous agreement to sell it back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price, typically representing the purchase price plus interest. Repurchase agreements may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. The Funds investment return on such transactions will depend on the counterpartys willingness and ability to perform its obligations under a repurchase agreement. If the Funds counterparty should default on its obligations and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the collateral, or if the value of the collateral is insufficient, the Fund may realize a loss.
Risk of Investment in Other Pools . If the Fund invests in another pooled investment vehicle, it is exposed to the risk that the other pool will not perform as expected. The Fund is exposed indirectly to all of the risks applicable to an investment in such other pool. In addition, lack of liquidity in the underlying pool could result in its value being more volatile than the underlying portfolio of securities, and may limit the ability of the Fund to sell or redeem its interest in the pool at a time or at a price it might consider desirable. The investment policies and limitations of the other pool may not be the same as those of the Fund; as a result, the Fund may be subject to additional or different risks, or may achieve a reduced investment return, as a result of its investment in another pool. If a pool is an exchange-traded fund or other product traded on a securities exchange or otherwise actively traded, its shares may trade at a premium or discount to their NAV, an effect that might be more pronounced in less liquid markets. The Fund bears its proportionate share of the fees and expenses of any pool in which it invests. The Adviser or an affiliate may serve as investment adviser to a pool in which the Fund may invest, leading to potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates may receive fees based on the amount of assets invested in the pool. Investment by the Fund in the pool may be beneficial to the Adviser or an affiliate in the management of the pool, by helping to achieve economies of scale or enhancing cash flows. Due to this and other factors, the Adviser may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates in lieu of investments by the Fund directly in portfolio securities, or may have an incentive to invest in the pool over a pool sponsored or managed by others. Similarly, the Adviser may have an incentive to delay or decide against the sale of interests held by the Fund in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. It is possible that other clients of the Adviser or its affiliates will purchase or sell interests in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates at prices and at times more favorable than those at which the Fund does so.
Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper and Rule 144A Securities Risk . The Fund may invest in commercial paper issued in reliance on the private placement exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act). This commercial paper is commonly called Section 4(a)(2) paper. The Fund may also invest in securities that may be offered and sold only to qualified institutional buyers under Rule 144A of the 1933 Act (Rule 144A securities).
Section 4(a)(2) paper is sold to institutional investors who must agree to purchase the paper for investment and not with a view to public distribution. Any resale by the purchaser must be in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. Section 4(a)(2) paper normally is resold to other institutional investors like the Fund through or with the assistance of the issuer or investment dealers that make a market in Section 4(a)(2) paper. As a result it suffers from liquidity risk, the risk that the securities may be difficult to value because of the absence of an active market and the risk that it may be sold only after considerable expense and delay, if at all. Rule 144A securities generally must be sold only to other qualified institutional buyers.
Section 4(a)(2) paper and Rule 144A securities will not be considered illiquid for purposes of the Funds limitation on illiquid securities if the Adviser (pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board) determines that a liquid trading market exists for the securities in question. There can be no assurance that a liquid trading market will exist at any time for any particular Section 4(a)(2) paper or Rule 144A securities. The Statement of Additional Information (SAI) addresses the Funds limitation on illiquid securities.
Settlement Risk . Markets in different countries have different clearance and settlement procedures and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of transactions. Delays in settlement may increase credit risk to the Fund, limit the ability of the Fund to reinvest the proceeds of a sale of securities, hinder the ability of the Fund to lend its portfolio securities, and potentially subject the Fund to penalties for its failure to deliver to on-purchasers of securities whose delivery to the Fund was delayed. Delays in the settlement of securities purchased by the Fund may limit the ability of the Fund to sell those securities at times and prices it considers desirable, and may subject the Fund to losses and costs due to its own inability to settle with subsequent purchasers of the securities from it. The Fund may be required to borrow monies it had otherwise expected to receive in connection with the settlement of securities sold by it, in order to meet its obligations to others.
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Stable Share Price Risk. If the market value of one or more of the Funds investments changes substantially, the Fund may not be able to maintain a stable share price of $1.00. This risk typically is higher during periods of rapidly changing interest rates or when issuer credit quality generally is falling, and is made worse when the Fund experiences significant redemption requests. This risk applies for the Fund through October 11, 2016.
U.S. Government Securities Risk . U.S. Government securities, such as Treasury bills, notes and bonds and mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae), are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States; others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agencys obligations; and still others are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency, instrumentality, or enterprise. Although U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) may be chartered or sponsored by Congress, they are not funded by Congressional appropriations, and their securities are not issued by the U.S. Treasury nor supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. There is no assurance that the U.S. Government would provide financial support to its agencies and instrumentalities if not required to do so. In addition, certain governmental entities have been subject to regulatory scrutiny regarding their accounting policies and practices and other concerns that may result in legislation, changes in regulatory oversight and/or other consequences that could adversely affect the credit quality, availability, or investment character of securities issued by these entities. The value and liquidity of U.S. Government securities may be affected adversely by changes in the ratings of those securities. Securities issued by the U.S. Treasury historically have been considered to present minimal credit risk. The downgrade in the long-term U.S. credit rating by at least one major rating agency has introduced greater uncertainty about the ability of the U.S. to repay its obligations. A further credit rating downgrade or a U.S. credit default could decrease the value and increase the volatility of the Funds investments.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities . Variable or floating rate securities are debt securities with variable or floating interest rates payments. Variable or floating rate securities bear rates of interest that are adjusted periodically according to formulae intended generally to reflect market rates of interest and allow the Fund to participate (determined in accordance with the terms of the securities) in increases in interest rates through upward adjustments of the coupon rates on the securities. However, during periods of increasing interest rates, changes in the coupon rates may lag behind the changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in coupon rates. Alternatively, during periods of declining interest rates, the coupon rates on such securities will typically readjust downward resulting in a lower yield. The Fund may also invest in variable or floating rate equity securities, whose dividend payments vary based on changes in market rates of interest or other factors.
Zero-Coupon Bond Risk . Zero-coupon bonds are debt obligations that are generally issued at a discount and payable in full at maturity, and that do not provide for current payments of interest prior to maturity. Zero-coupon bonds usually trade at a deep discount from their face or par values and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current distributions of interest. When interest rates rise, the values of zero-coupon bonds fall more rapidly than securities paying interest on a current basis, because the Fund is unable to reinvest interest payments at the higher rates.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT NON-PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISKS
The investments described below reflect the Funds and the Portfolios current practices. In addition to the principal risks described above, other risks are described in some of the descriptions of the investments below:
Conflicts of Interest Risk. An investment in the Fund may be subject to a number of actual or potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates may provide services to the Fund, such as securities lending agency services, custodial, administrative, bookkeeping, and accounting services, transfer agency and shareholder servicing, securities brokerage services, and other services for which the Fund would compensate the Adviser and/or such affiliates. The Fund may invest in other pooled investment vehicles sponsored, managed, or otherwise affiliated with the Adviser. There is no assurance that the rates at which the Fund pays fees or expenses to the Adviser or its affiliates, or the terms on which it enters into transactions with the Adviser or its affiliates will be the most favorable available in the market generally or as favorable as the rates the Adviser makes available to other clients. Because of its financial interest, the Adviser may have an incentive to enter into transactions or arrangements on behalf of the Fund with itself or its affiliates in circumstances where it might not have done so in the absence of that interest.
The Adviser and its affiliates serve as investment adviser to other clients and may make investment decisions that may be different from those that will be made by the Adviser on behalf of the Fund. For example, the Adviser may provide asset allocation advice to some clients that may include a recommendation to invest in or redeem from particular issuers while not providing that same
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recommendation to all clients invested in the same or similar issuers. The Adviser may (subject to applicable law) be simultaneously seeking to purchase (or sell) investments for the Fund and to sell (or purchase) the same investment for accounts, funds, or structured products for which it serves as asset manager, or for other clients or affiliates. The Adviser and its affiliates may invest for clients in various securities that are senior, pari passu or junior to, or have interests different from or adverse to, the securities that are owned by the Fund. The Adviser or its affiliates, in connection with its other business activities, may acquire material non-public confidential information that may restrict the Adviser from purchasing securities or selling securities for itself or its clients (including the Fund) or otherwise using such information for the benefit of its clients or itself.
The foregoing does not purport to be a comprehensive list or complete explanation of all potential conflicts of interests which may affect the Fund. The Fund may encounter circumstances, or enter into transactions, in which conflicts of interest that are not listed or discussed above may arise.
Cybersecurity Risk . With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet and the dependence on computer systems to perform business and operational functions, funds (such as the Fund) 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, the Fund, the Portfolio, the Adviser, or a custodian, transfer agent, or other affiliated or third-party service provider may adversely affect the Fund or its shareholders. For instance, cyber-attacks or technical malfunctions may interfere with the processing of shareholder or other transactions, affect the Funds ability to calculate its NAV, cause the release of private shareholder information or confidential Fund information, 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 or technical malfunctions 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 Fund may also incur substantial costs for cybersecurity risk management in order to prevent cyber incidents in the future. The Fund and its 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 Fund relies on third-party service providers for many of its 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 cybersecurity risks or technical malfunctions also are present for issuers of securities in which the Fund invests, which could result in material adverse consequences for such issuers, and may cause the Funds investment in such securities to lose value.
The Funds portfolio holdings disclosure policy is described in the SAI.
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The Fund is a separate, diversified series of the State Street Institutional Investment Trust (the Trust), which is an open-end management investment company organized as a business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The Fund invests as part of a master/feeder structure. The Fund currently seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Portfolio, a separate mutual fund, that has substantially identical investment objective, investment policies, and risks as the Fund. All discussions about the Funds investment objective, policies and risks should be understood to refer also to the investment objectives, policies and risks of the Portfolio.
The Fund can withdraw its investment in the Portfolio if, at any time, the Funds Board of Trustees determines that it would be in the best interests of the Funds shareholders, or if the investment objectives of the Portfolio changed so that they were inconsistent with the objectives of the Fund. If the Fund withdraws its investment from the Portfolio, the Fund may invest all of its assets in another mutual fund that has the same investment objective as the Fund, the Adviser may directly manage the Funds assets, or the Board may take such other action it deems appropriate and in the best interests of shareholders of the Fund, which may include liquidation of the Fund.
Investment Adviser
SSGA FM serves as the investment adviser to the Fund and Portfolio and, subject to the supervision of the Board, is responsible for the investment management of the Fund. The Adviser provides an investment management program for the Fund and manages the investment of the Funds assets. The Adviser is a wholly-owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation and is registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The Adviser and certain other affiliates of State Street Corporation make up SSGA. SSGA is one of the worlds largest institutional money managers and the investment management arm of State Street Corporation. As of June 30, 2016, the Adviser managed approximately $398.23 billion in assets and SSGA managed approximately $2.30 trillion in assets. The Advisers principal business address is State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.
The Fund has entered into an investment advisory agreement with the Adviser pursuant to which the Adviser will manage the Funds assets directly, for compensation paid at an annual rate of 0.05% of the Funds average daily net assets, in the event that the Fund were to cease investing substantially all of its assets in its Portfolio or another investment company with essentially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund. The Adviser does not receive any management fees from the Fund under that agreement so long as the Fund continues to invest substantially all of its assets in the Portfolio or in another investment company with essentially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund. The Adviser places all orders for purchases and sales of the Portfolios investments. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the effective management fee paid, reflecting certain fee waivers and expense reimbursements of the Adviser, was 0.05% for the Portfolio.
In addition to any contractual expense limitation for the Fund which is described in the Fund Summary, the Adviser also may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses for the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid negative yield which may vary from time to time and from Fund to Fund in the Advisers sole discretion. Under an agreement with the Adviser relating to the Voluntary Reduction, the Fund and the Portfolio have agreed to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction beginning on October 1, 2012, subject to certain limitations. The Fund will not be obligated to reimburse the Adviser:
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more than three years after the end of the fiscal year for the Fund in which the Adviser provided a Voluntary Reduction; |
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in respect of any business day for which the net annualized one-day yield is less than 0.00%; |
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to the extent that the amount of the reimbursement to the Adviser on any day exceeds fifty percent of the yield (net of all expenses, exclusive of the reimbursement) of the Fund on that day; |
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to the extent that the amount of such reimbursement would cause the Funds net yield to fall below the Funds minimum net yield as determined by the Adviser in its sole discretion; or |
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in respect of any fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements that are necessary to maintain the Funds contractual total expense limit which is effective at the time of such fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. |
A reimbursement to the Adviser would increase fund expenses and negatively impact the Funds future yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. Reimbursement payments by the Fund to the Adviser in connection with the Voluntary Reduction are considered extraordinary expenses and are not subject to any contractual expense limitation agreement in effect for the Fund at the time of such payment. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund.
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A discussion regarding the Boards consideration of the Funds Investment Advisory Agreement is provided in the Trusts Semi-Annual Report to Shareholders for the period ended June 30, 2015.
The Administrator, Sub-Administrator and Custodian.
The Adviser serves as administrator of the Fund. The amount of the fee paid to the Adviser for administrative services may vary by share class. The Fund currently pays the Adviser an administrative fee at the annual rate of 0.05% in respect of the class of shares in this Prospectus. State Street Bank and Trust Company (State Street), a subsidiary of State Street Corporation, serves as the sub-administrator for the Fund for a fee that is paid by the Adviser. State Street also serves as custodian of the Fund for a separate fee that is paid by the Fund. SSGA FM serves as administrator of the Portfolio and State Street serves as sub-administrator and custodian of the Portfolio.
The Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent.
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. is the transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent (the Transfer Agent).
The Distributor.
State Street Global Markets, LLC serves as the Funds distributor (SSGM or the Distributor) pursuant to the Distribution Agreement between SSGM and the Trust.
The Servicing Agent.
Neuberger Berman Management LLC (Neuberger Berman) serves as the servicing agent for shareholders of mutual funds distributed and advised by Neuberger Berman (a Neuberger Berman Fund) that are also shareholders of a Fund.
Additional Information.
The Trustees of the Trust oversee generally the operations of the Fund and the Trust. The Trust enters into contractual arrangements with various parties, including among others the Funds investment adviser, custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, who provide services to the Fund. Shareholders are not parties to any such contractual arrangements or intended beneficiaries of those contractual arrangements, and those contractual arrangements are not intended to create in any shareholder any right to enforce them directly against the service providers or to seek any remedy under them directly against the service providers.
This Prospectus provides information concerning the Trust and the Fund that you should consider in determining whether to purchase shares of the Fund. Neither this Prospectus, nor the related SAI, is intended, or should be read, to be or to give rise to an agreement or contract between the Trust or the Fund and any investor, or to give rise to any rights in any shareholder or other person other than any rights under federal or state law that may not be waived.
Note : This prospectus is intended to relate principally to purchases of shares through Neuberger Berman. Information appearing below assumes that shares are purchased and redeemed through Neuberger Berman and is based on information previously provided by Neuberger Berman to the Fund.
Determination of Net Asset Value
Until October 11, 2016, the ILR Fund determines its NAV per share once each business day at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) except for days when the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) closes earlier than its regular closing time, in which event the Fund will determine its NAV at the earlier closing time (the time when the Fund determines its NAV per share is referred to herein as the Valuation Time). Until October 11, 2016, the Fund seeks to maintain a $1.00 per share NAV and, accordingly, uses the amortized cost valuation method, in compliance with the risk limiting conditions of Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act, to value its portfolio instruments. The amortized cost valuation method initially prices an instrument at its cost and thereafter assumes a constant amortization to maturity of any discount or premium, regardless of the impact of fluctuating interest rates on the market value of the instrument.
Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will determine its NAV per share three times each business day at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET except for days when the NYSEs regular closing is prior to 3 p.m. ET, in which event the Fund will determine its final NAV for the day at the earlier closing time. Also effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will calculate its NAV to four decimal places.
Effective October 12, 2016, the NAV of each class of the Funds shares is calculated by dividing the value of the assets of the Fund attributable to that class less the liabilities of the Fund attributable to that class by the number of shares in the class outstanding. The Fund values each security or other investment pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board of Trustees. Securities or other
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investments may be valued at fair value, as determined in good faith and pursuant to procedures approved by the Portfolios Board of Trustees, under certain limited circumstances. For example, fair value pricing may be used when market quotations are not readily available or reliable, such as when (i) trading for a security is restricted; or (ii) a significant event, as determined by the Adviser, that may affect the value of one or more securities or other investments held by the Fund occurs after the close of a related exchange but before the determination of the Funds NAV. Attempts to determine the fair value of securities or other investments introduce an element of subjectivity to the pricing of securities or other investments. As a result, the price of a security or other investment determined through fair valuation techniques may differ from the price quoted or published by other sources and may not accurately reflect the price a Fund would have received had it sold the investment. To the extent that the Fund invests in the shares of other registered open-end investment companies that are not traded on an exchange (mutual funds), such shares are valued at their published net asset values per share as reported by the funds. The prospectuses of these funds explain the circumstances under which the funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.
A business day is one on which the NYSE is open for regular trading. The Federal Reserve is closed on certain holidays on which the NYSE is open. These holidays are Columbus Day and Veterans Day. On these holidays, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because Federal Funds wiring does not occur on days when the Federal Reserve is closed. The Fund reserve the right to accept orders to purchase or redeem shares, or to continue to accept such orders following the close of the NYSE, on any day that is not a business day or any day on which the NYSE closes early, provided the Federal Reserve remains open. As noted in this Prospectus, the Fund may invest in securities listed on foreign exchanges, or otherwise traded in a foreign market, and those securities may trade on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares. Consequently, the NAV of the Funds shares may change on days when shareholders are not able to purchase or redeem the Funds shares. The Fund also may establish special hours on those days to determine the Funds NAV. In the event that the Fund invokes the right to accept orders to purchase or redeem shares on any day that is not a business day or adopt special hours of operation, the Fund will post advance notice of these events at www.ssga.com/cash.
If you hold shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary, your intermediary may offer additional services and account features that are not described in this Prospectus. Please contact your intermediary directly for an explanation of these services.
Investing in State Street Institutional Investment Trust Shares
Mutual funds advised by SSGA FM (the State Street Funds) and their service providers have a legal obligation to collect from you certain personal information about you at the time you open an account in order to verify your identity and the source of your payment. If you do not provide this information, you may not be able to open an account with the State Street Funds. If the State Street Funds believe that they have uncovered unlawful activity, the State Street Funds and their service providers may close your account and take any action they deem reasonable or required by law. The State Street Funds reserve the right to reject any purchase order.
Requests for transactions in the State Street Funds will be processed when they are received in good order. Good order means that the request is in an accurate and complete form, and all applicable documents have been received in such accurate and complete form (including typically, a signed application and medallion-guaranteed documents), and, for a purchase request, the check or wired funds have cleared.
Purchasing Shares
Investors pay no sales load to invest in the shares of the Fund. The price for Fund Shares is the NAV per share. Purchase requests received by the Fund in good order (a purchase request is in good order if it meets the requirements implemented from time to time by the Transfer Agent or authorized agent of the Fund, and for new accounts includes submission of a completed and signed application and all documentation necessary to open an account) on a business day will, if payment is received by FedWire, be priced at the NAV next determined after the order is accepted by the Fund. Payments received by FedWire prior to the last Valuation time (effective October 12, 2016, generally, 3:00 p.m. ET, unless the Fund closes earlier), will earn dividend accrual for that purchase. All purchases that are made by check will begin earning dividends the following business day after the day the order is accepted. (If you purchase shares by check, your order will not be in good form until the Transfer Agent receives federal funds for the check.) All purchase orders are subject to acceptance by the Fund. The Fund intends to be as fully invested as is practicable; therefore, investments must be made in Federal Funds (i.e., monies credited to the account of the Funds custodian bank by a Federal Reserve Bank).
Neuberger Berman is responsible for transmitting your purchase request and funds in good form and in a timely manner to the applicable Fund(s). The Fund will not be responsible for delays by Neuberger Berman in transmitting your purchase request, including timely transfer of payment, to the Fund.
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The minimum initial investment in Premier Class Shares of the Funds is $500 million, although the Adviser may waive the minimum in its discretion. Holdings of related customer accounts may be aggregated for purposes of determining the minimum investment amount. Related customer accounts may include, but are not limited to, accounts held by the same investment or retirement plan, financial institution, broker, dealer or intermediary. The Funds and the Adviser reserve the right to increase or decrease the minimum amount required to open or maintain an account. There is no minimum subsequent investment, except in relation to maintaining certain minimum account balances (See Redeeming Shares below). The Funds require prior notification of subsequent investments in excess of $50,000,000.
The Fund reserves the right to cease accepting investments at any time or to reject any investment order.
Until October 11, 2016, the Fund may limit the amount of a purchase order received after 3:00 p.m. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will determine its NAV at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET. The 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. NAV calculation times are intended to facilitate same day settlement.
How to Purchase Shares
By Mail:
An initial investment in the Funds must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Institutional Account Application Form, sent to:
Neuberger Berman Funds c/o State Street Institutional Trust Funds P.O. Box 8048 Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048 |
By Overnight:
Neuberger Berman Funds c/o State Street Institutional Trust Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809 |
By Telephone/Fax:
An initial investment in the Funds must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Institutional Account Application Form, faxed to (816) 218-0400. Call the Fund at (866) 392-0869 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. ET and 5:00 p.m. ET to: Ø confirm receipt of the faxed Institutional Account Application Form (initial purchases only), Ø request your new account number (initial purchases only), Ø confirm the amount being wired and wiring bank, and Ø receive a confirmation number for your purchase order (your trade is not effective until you have received a confirmation number from the Fund).
For your initial investment, send the original, signed Institutional Account Application Form to the address above. |
Wire Instructions:
Instruct your bank to transfer money by Federal Funds wire to:
State Street Bank and Trust Company 1 Iron Street Boston, MA 02110
ABA# 011-000028 DDA#9905-801-8 State Street Institutional Investment Trust Fund Class Account Number Account Registration
On Columbus Day and Veterans Day, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because the Federal Funds wiring does not occur on those days. Payment for Fund shares must be in Federal Funds (or converted to Federal Funds by the Transfer Agent) by the close of the Federal Reserve.
You will not be able to redeem shares from the account until the original Application has been received. The Funds and the Funds agents are not responsible for transfer errors by the sending or receiving bank and will not be liable for any loss incurred due to a wire transfer not having been received. |
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In accordance with certain federal regulations, Neuberger Berman is required to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each entity that applies to open an account. For this reason, when you open (or change ownership of) an account, Neuberger Berman will request certain information, including your name, residential/business address, date of birth (for individuals) and taxpayer identification number or other government identification number and other information that will allow us to identify you which will be used to verify your identity. Neuberger Berman may also request to review other identification documents such as driver license, passport or documents showing the existence of the business entity. If you do not provide sufficient information to verify your identity, Neuberger Berman will not open an account for you. As required by law, Neuberger Berman may employ various procedures, such as comparing your information to fraud databases or requesting additional information and documentation from you, to ensure that the information supplied by you is correct. Neuberger Berman reserves the right to reject any purchase for any reason, including failure to provide the Trust with information necessary to confirm your identity as required by law.
Redeeming Shares
An investor may redeem all or any portion of its investment. Redemption orders are processed at the NAV next determined after the Fund receives a redemption order in good form. If the Fund receives a redemption order in good form prior to its Valuation Time on a business day, shares are redeemed and the Fund typically sends payment for redeemed shares on that day, but no later than next business day (unless redemption proceed are sent by check or ACH). If a full redemption order is requested, no dividends will accrue with respect to shares on the day the redemption proceeds are sent. If a redemption order is placed after the last Valuation Time (effective October 12, 2016, generally, 3:00 p.m. ET, unless the Fund closes earlier) the redemption proceeds for the shares will be sent next business day (and dividends will accrue up to, but not including, the day that redemption proceeds are sent).
Certain special limitations affecting redemptions. The SEC has implemented a number of requirements, including liquidity fees and redemption gates, for money market funds based on the amount of fund assets in weekly liquid assets, which generally includes cash, direct obligations of the U.S. government, certain other U.S. government or agency securities, and securities that will mature or are subject to a demand feature that is exercisable and payable within five business days. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will pass through to its investors any liquidity fee or suspension of redemptions imposed by the Portfolio on the same terms and conditions as imposed by the Portfolio on the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, if the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 30% of its total assets and the Portfolios Board of Trustees determines it is in the best interests of the Portfolio, the Portfolio may immediately impose a liquidity fee of no more than 2% and/or temporarily suspend redemptions for up to 10 business days in any 90 day period. If the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of its total assets at the end of any business day, the Portfolio will impose a liquidity fee of 1% on all redemptions beginning on the next business day, unless the Portfolios Board determines that imposing such a fee would not be in the best interests of the Portfolio or determines that a lower or higher fee (not to exceed 2%) would be in the best interests of the Portfolio, which would remain in effect until weekly liquid assets return to 30% or the Portfolios Board determines that the fee is no longer in the best interests of the Portfolio. All liquidity fees payable by the Fund will be passed through to its investors, would be payable to the Portfolio and could offset any losses realized by the Portfolio when seeking to honor redemption requests. If liquidity fees are imposed or redemptions are suspended by the Portfolio, the Fund will notify shareholders on the Funds website. The Fund expects to treat such liquidity fees paid to the Portfolio as reducing proceeds paid to shareholders in redemption of Fund shares, and not constituting income to the Portfolio. There may be circumstances under which the Fund may impose its own liquidity fees and/or suspend redemptions based on the level of the Funds own weekly liquid assets, in which case the Fund will also provide notice to shareholders.
If the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of its assets on a business day, the Portfolio may cease honoring redemptions and liquidate in the discretion of the Portfolios Board. If the Fund is notified that its Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of the Portfolios assets and the Portfolio has suspended redemptions and intends to liquidate, the Fund may also do so in the discretion of the Funds Board. There may be circumstances under which the Fund may cease honoring redemptions and liquidate in the discretion of its Board based on the level of the Funds own weekly liquid assets. If the Fund ceases honoring redemptions and determines to liquidate, the Fund expects that it would notify shareholders on the Funds website. Distributions to shareholders of liquidation proceeds may occur in one or more disbursements.
The right of any investor to receive payment with respect to any redemption may be suspended or the payment of the redemption proceeds postponed during any period in which the NYSE is closed (other than weekends or holidays) or trading on the NYSE is restricted or, to the extent otherwise permitted by the 1940 Act, if an emergency exists as a result of which disposal by the Fund of securities owned by it is not reasonably practicable or it is not reasonably practicable for the Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets. In addition, the SEC may by order permit suspension of redemptions for the protection of shareholders of the Fund.
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When selling shares in an account that you do not intend to close, remember to leave at least $2,000 worth of shares in the account. Otherwise, Neuberger Berman has the right to request that you bring the balance back up to the minimum level. If you have not done so within 60 days, Neuberger Berman may close your account and redeem the proceeds. Neuberger Berman is responsible for transmitting your redemption request in good form and in a timely manner to the applicable Fund(s). The Fund will not be responsible for delays by Neuberger Berman in transmitting your redemption request to the Fund.
How to Redeem Shares
By Mail: |
Send a signed letter to: Neuberger Berman Funds c/o State Street Institutional Trust Funds P.O. Box 8048 Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048
The letter should include information necessary to process your request as described below. The Fund may require a medallion guarantee in certain circumstances. See Medallion Guarantees below. |
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By Overnight: |
Neuberger Berman Funds c/o State Street Institutional Trust Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809 |
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By Telephone: | Please call (866) 392-0869 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. ET. | |
You must provide the following information to process your redemption request: Ø name(s) of account owners; Ø account number(s); Ø the name of the Fund; Ø your daytime telephone number; and Ø the dollar amount or number of shares being redeemed. |
On any day that the Fund calculates NAV earlier than normal, the Fund reserves the right to adjust the times noted above for purchasing and redeeming shares.
Medallion Guarantees. You may need a Medallion signature guarantee when you sell shares of the Fund. A Medallion signature guarantee is a guarantee that your signature is authentic. Most banks, brokers and other financial institutions can provide you with one. Some may charge a fee; others may not, particularly if you are a customer of theirs.
Medallion signature guarantees are required for a variety of transactions including requests for changes to your account or to the instructions for distribution of proceeds. Neuberger Berman reserves the right to require a Medallion signature guarantee on any transaction at our discretion.
A notarized signature from a notary public is not a Medallion signature guarantee.
Until October 11, 2016, all redemption requests regarding shares of the Fund placed after 4:00 p.m. ET may only be placed by telephone or pre-established other means such as a transmission and the Fund reserves the right to postpone payments for redemption requests received after 4:00 p.m. ET until the next business day.
Effective October 12, 2016, same day settlement of redemption proceeds will only be available for redemption requests accepted prior to the Funds last Valuation Time of the day (generally, 3:00 p.m. ET unless the Fund closes earlier).
The Fund reserves the right to waive medallion guarantee requirements, require a medallion guarantee under other circumstances or reject or delay redemption if the medallion guarantee is not in good form. Medallion guarantees may be provided by an eligible financial institution such as a commercial bank, a FINRA member firm such as a stock broker, a savings association or a national securities exchange. A notary public cannot provide a medallion guarantee. The Fund reserves the right to reject a medallion guarantee if it is not provided by a STAMP Medallion guarantor.
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About Telephone Transactions. Telephone transactions are convenient but are not free from risk. Neither the Funds nor the Funds agents will be responsible for any losses resulting from unauthorized telephone transactions if reasonable security procedures are followed. In addition, you are responsible for: (i) verifying the accuracy of all data and information transmitted by telephone, (ii) verifying the accuracy of your account statements immediately upon receipt, and (iii) promptly notifying the Funds of any errors or inaccuracies including, without limitation, any errors or inaccuracies relating to shareholder data or information transmitted by telephone. During periods of heavy market activity or other times, it may be difficult to reach the Funds by telephone. If you are unable to reach us by telephone, consider sending written instructions.
The Funds may terminate the receipt of redemption orders by telephone at any time, in which case you may redeem shares by other means.
If you choose to purchase or redeem shares by sending instructions by regular mail, they will not be deemed received in good order until they are released by the post office and redelivered to the Transfer Agents physical location at 30 Dan Road in Canton, MA 02021. There will be a time lag, which may be one or more days, between regular mail receipt at the Boston post office box and redelivery to such physical location in Canton, and a Funds NAV may change over those days. You might consider using express rather than regular mail if you believe the time of receipt of your transaction request to be sensitive.
Other Policies. Under certain circumstances, Neuberger Berman reserves the right to:
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reject any exchange or purchase order; |
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suspend or reject any future purchase order from any investor who does not provide payment to settle a purchase order; |
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change, suspend or revoke the exchange privilege; and |
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suspend the telephone order privilege. |
Excessive Trading
Because the Fund is a money market fund, the Funds Board of Trustees has not adopted policies and procedures with respect to frequent purchases and redemptions of Fund shares by Fund shareholders. Nonetheless, the Fund may take any reasonable action that they deem necessary or appropriate to prevent excessive trading in Fund shares without providing prior notification to the account holder. Such action may include rejecting any purchase, in whole or part, including, without limitation, by a person whose trading activity in Fund shares may be deemed harmful to the Fund. While the Fund attempts to discourage such excessive trading, there can be no guarantee that they will be able to identify investors who are engaging in excessive trading or limit their trading practices. Additionally, frequent trades of small amounts may not be detected. The Fund recognizes that they may not always be able to detect or prevent excessive trading or other activity that may disadvantage the Fund or its shareholders.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
Financial Intermediaries are firms that sell shares of mutual funds, including the Fund, for compensation and/or provide certain administrative and account maintenance services to mutual fund investors. Financial Intermediaries may include, among others, brokers, financial planners or advisers, banks, and insurance companies.
In some cases, a Financial Intermediary may hold its clients Fund Shares in nominee or street name. Shareholder services provided by a Financial Intermediary may (though they will not necessarily) include, among other things: processing and mailing trade confirmations, periodic statements, prospectuses, annual reports, semiannual reports, shareholder notices, and other SEC-required communications; capturing and processing tax data; issuing and mailing dividend checks to shareholders who have selected cash distributions; preparing record date shareholder lists for proxy solicitations; collecting and posting distributions to shareholder accounts; and establishing and maintaining systematic withdrawals and automated investment plans and shareholder account registrations.
The compensation paid by the Distributor or its affiliates to a Financial Intermediary is typically paid continually over time, during the period when the Financial Intermediarys clients hold investments in the Fund. The amount of continuing compensation paid by the Distributor or its affiliates to different Financial Intermediaries for distribution and/or shareholder services varies. The compensation is typically a percentage of the value of the Financial Intermediarys clients investments in the Fund or a per account fee. The variation in compensation may, but will not necessarily, reflect enhanced or additional services provided by the Financial Intermediary.
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SSGM and its affiliates (including SSGA FM), at their own expense and out of their own assets, may also provide other compensation to Financial Intermediaries in connection with sales of the Funds shares or the servicing of shareholders or shareholder accounts. Such compensation may include, but is not limited to, financial assistance to Financial Intermediaries in connection with conferences, sales, or training programs for their employees; seminars for the public; advertising or sales campaigns; or other Financial Intermediary-sponsored special events. In some instances, this compensation may be made available only to certain Financial Intermediaries whose representatives have sold or are expected to sell significant amounts of shares. Dealers may not use sales of the Funds shares to qualify for this compensation to the extent prohibited by the laws or rules of any state or any self-regulatory agency, such as the FINRA.
If payments to Financial Intermediaries by the distributor or adviser for a particular mutual fund complex exceed payments by other mutual fund complexes, your financial adviser and the Financial Intermediary employing him or her may have an incentive to recommend that fund complex over others. Please speak with your financial adviser to learn more about the total amounts paid to your financial adviser and his or her firm by the Distributor and its affiliates and by sponsors of other mutual funds he or she may recommend to you. You should also consult disclosures made by your Financial Intermediary at the time of purchase.
DIVIDENDS, DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The Fund intends to declare dividends on shares from net investment income daily and pay them as of the last business day of each month. Distributions from capital gains, if any, will be made annually in December. Income dividends and capital gains distributions will be paid in additional shares on the reinvestment date unless you have elected to receive them in cash. No interest will accrue on the amounts represented by uncashed distribution checks. If you have elected to receive distributions by check, and the postal or other delivery service is unable to deliver the checks because of an incorrect mailing address, or if a distribution check remains uncashed for six months, the uncashed distribution and all future distribution elections will be reinvested at the then-current NAV of the Fund.
The following discussion is a summary of some important U.S. federal tax considerations generally applicable to an investment in the Fund. Your investment in the Fund may have other tax implications. Please consult your tax advisor about federal, state, local, foreign or other tax laws applicable to you. Investors, including non-U.S. investors, may wish to consult the SAI tax section for additional disclosure.
The Fund invests substantially all of its investible assets in a Portfolio that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The nature and character of the Funds income, gains, losses and deductions generally will be determined at the Portfolio level, and the Fund will be allocated its share of the Portfolios income, gains, losses and deductions. As applicable, references in this discussion to income, gains and losses of the Fund will be to income, gains and losses recognized and deductions accruing at the Portfolio level and allocated to or otherwise taken into account by the Fund, and references to assets of the Fund will be to the Funds allocable share of the assets of the Portfolio.
The Fund has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company and intends each year to qualify and to be eligible to be treated as such. A regulated investment company generally is not subject to tax at the corporate level on income and gains that are timely distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify and be eligible for treatment as a regulated investment company, the Fund must, among other things, satisfy diversification, 90% gross income and distribution requirements. The Funds failure to qualify as a regulated investment company would result in corporate level taxation, and consequently, a reduction in income available for distribution to shareholders.
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, distributions of investment income are generally taxable to you as ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains generally are determined by how long the Portfolio owned the investments that generated them, rather than how long you have owned your Fund Shares. Any net short-term gains the Fund distributes will be taxable to you as ordinary income. The Fund generally does not expect to make distributions that are eligible for taxation as long-term capital gains. Distributions are taxable whether you receive them in cash or reinvest them in additional shares.
When the NAV of Fund Shares varies from $1.00 per share, shareholders will realize a gain or loss upon the sale, exchange or redemption of such Fund Shares. Any gains resulting from the redemption of Fund Shares will generally be taxable to you as either short-term or long-term capital gain, depending upon how long you have held such Fund Shares.
The IRS has issued final regulations and published guidance that permit a simplified method of accounting for gains and losses realized upon the disposition of money market fund shares. Shareholders should see the SAI for further information.
22
A 3.8% Medicare contribution tax is imposed on the net investment income of individuals, estates and trusts to the extent their income exceeds certain threshold amounts. Net investment income generally includes for this purpose dividends paid by the Fund, including any capital gain dividends, and net gains recognized on the redemption of shares of the Fund.
If you are not a U.S. person, dividends paid by the Fund that the Fund properly reports as capital gain dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, or interest-related dividends, each as further defined in the SAI, are not subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax, provided that certain other requirements are met. The Fund is permitted, but is not required, to report any part of its dividends as are eligible for such treatment. The Funds dividends other than those the Fund so reports as capital gain dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, or interest-related dividends generally will be subject to a U.S. withholding tax at the 30% rate (or lower applicable treaty rate). See the Funds SAI for further information.
23
The financial highlight tables are intended to help you understand the Funds Premier Class Shares financial performance for the past five fiscal years. Certain information reflects the performance results for a single Fund Share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, the Trusts independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the Funds financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the annual report to shareholders, which is available upon request. The financial information included in these tables should be read in conjunction with the financial statements incorporated by reference in the SAI.
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State Street Institutional Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Financial Highlights
Selected data for a share of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each year is presented below (a) :
Period Ended December 31, |
Net Asset
Value Beginning of Period |
Net
Investment Income/(Loss) |
Gain
(Loss) on Investments |
Total from
Investment Operations |
Distributions
from Net Investment Income |
Distributions
from Capital Gains |
Total
Distributions |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Premier Class |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0012 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0012 | $ | (0.0012 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.0012 | ) | |||||||||||
2014 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0008 | $ | (0.0001 | ) | $ | 0.0007 | $ | (0.0007 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.0007 | ) | |||||||||||
2013 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0010 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0010 | $ | (0.0010 | ) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0010 | ) | ||||||||||
2012 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0020 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0020 | $ | (0.0020 | ) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0020 | ) | ||||||||||
2011 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0015 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0015 | $ | (0.0015 | ) | $ | | $ | (0.0015 | ) |
(a) |
The per share amounts and percentages include the Funds proportionate share of income and expenses of the corresponding Portfolio. |
(b) |
Total return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares at net asset value on the first day and a sale at net asset value on the last day of each period reported. Distributions are assumed, for the purpose of this calculation, to be reinvested at net asset value per share on the respective payment dates. Total return for periods of less than one year are not annualized. Results represent past performance and are not indicative of future results. |
(c) |
This expense waiver is reflected in both the net operating expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Without these waivers, net investment income would have been lower. |
(d) |
Amount is less than $0.00005 per share. |
(e) |
Amount is less than 0.005%. |
26
State Street Institutional Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Financial Highlights
Net
Asset
Value End of Period |
Ratios to Average Net Assets/Supplemental Data |
Net Assets
End of Year (000s omitted) |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Period Ended December 31, |
Total
Return (b) |
Gross
Expenses |
Net
Expenses |
Net
Investment Income |
Expense
Waiver (c) |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
Premier Class |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | | $ | 45,207,442 | |||||||||||||||
2014 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.07 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.07 | % | | $ | 37,932,781 | |||||||||||||||
2013 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.10 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.10 | % | | $ | 29,850,029 | |||||||||||||||
2012 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.20 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.20 | % | | $ | 24,408,802 | |||||||||||||||
2011 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.15 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.12 | % | 0.15 | % | | $ | 19,597,264 |
27
For more information about the Fund:
The Funds SAI includes additional information about the Fund and is incorporated by reference into this document. Additional information about the Funds investments is available, or will be available, in the Funds most recent annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. The Funds SAI is available, without charge, upon request. The Funds annual and semi-annual reports are available, or will be available, without charge, upon request. Shareholders in the Fund may make inquiries to the Fund to receive such information by calling (877) 521-4083 or the customer service center at the telephone number shown in the accompanying contract prospectus, if applicable.
Information about the Fund (including the SAI) can be reviewed and copied at the SECs Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-202-551-8090. Reports and other information about the Fund are available free of charge on the EDGAR Database on the SECs Internet site at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of this information also may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following E-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov, or by writing the SECs Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520.
SSGA Funds Management, Inc.
STATE STREET FINANCIAL CENTER
ONE LINCOLN STREET
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02111
The State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Investment Company Act File Number is 811-09819.
Prospectus
Dated August 26, 2016
State Street Institutional
Investment Trust
Neuberger Berman Money Fund
A Private Label of the Investment Class Shares of the
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund (SSVXX)
Advised by SSGA Funds Management, Inc.,
a subsidiary of State Street Corporation
The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus.
Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
An investment in the Fund offered by this Prospectus is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.
The Fund may offer multiple classes of shares. This Prospectus covers only the Investment Class shares.
Effective October 12, 2016, State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund is a floating net asset value money market fund. The share price of this Fund will fluctuate beginning on that date.
None of State Street Corporation, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Global Advisors, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. or their affiliates (State Street Entities) guarantee the value of your investment at $1.00 per share. Investors should have no expectation of capital support to the Fund from State Street Entities.
1 | ||
1 | ||
Additional Information About Investment Objectives, Principal Strategies and Risks |
7 | |
Additional Information About Non-Principal Investment Strategies and Risks |
13 | |
14 | ||
15 | ||
16 | ||
21 | ||
22 | ||
22 | ||
24 |
Investment Objective
The investment objective of State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund (the ILR Fund or sometimes referred to in context as the Fund) is to seek to maximize current income, to the extent consistent with the preservation of capital and liquidity, by investing in U.S. dollar-denominated money market securities.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
The table below describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the ILR Fund (Fund Shares). The expenses shown in the table and the Example reflect the expenses of the Fund and the Funds proportionate share of the expenses of the State Street Money Market Portfolio (the Money Market Portfolio or sometimes referred to in context as the Portfolio).
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price) |
None | |||
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of the lower of the sale proceeds or the original offering price) |
None |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Management Fee |
0.05 | % | ||
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees |
0.10 | % | ||
Other Expenses |
0.32 | % | ||
|
|
|||
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses 1 |
0.47 | % | ||
|
|
1 |
The Funds investment adviser, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the Adviser or SSGA FM), may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses of the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid a negative yield (the Voluntary Reduction), or a yield below a specified level, which may vary from time to time in the Advisers sole discretion. The Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2012. As of December 31, 2015, the Adviser had waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses in the aggregate amount of $5,892,527 since October 1, 2012, none of which is potentially recoverable under the Voluntary Reduction. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund. Any future reimbursement by the Fund of the Voluntary Reduction would increase the Funds expenses and reduce the Funds yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. |
Example:
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated, and then sell all of your Fund Shares at the end of those periods. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 year |
3 years |
5 years |
10 years |
|||
$48 | $151 | $263 | $591 |
Principal Investment Strategies
The ILR Fund follows a disciplined investment process in which SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (SSGA FM or the Adviser), the investment adviser to the Fund, bases its decisions on the relative attractiveness of different money market instruments. In the Advisers opinion, the attractiveness of an instrument may vary depending on the general level of interest rates, as well as imbalances of supply and demand in the market. The Fund invests in accordance with regulatory requirements applicable to money market funds, which require, among other things, the Fund to invest only in short-term, high quality debt obligations (generally, securities that have remaining maturities of 397 calendar days or less and either have been rated in one of the two highest short-term rating categories or are considered by the Fund to be of comparable quality), to maintain a maximum dollar-weighted average maturity of sixty (60) days or less, and to meet requirements as to portfolio diversification and liquidity.
The Fund currently seeks to maintain a stable net asset value (NAV) per share of $1.00 by valuing its portfolio securities using amortized cost. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will continue to be a money market fund and the NAV of the Funds shares
1
will float, fluctuating with changes in the values of the Funds portfolio securities. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will typically accept purchase and redemption orders multiple times per day, and calculate its NAV at each such time.
The Fund attempts to meet its investment objective by investing in a broad range of money market instruments. These may include among other things: U.S. government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds and other securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest, as applicable, by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposits and time deposits of U.S. and foreign banks (including ECDs, ETDs and YCDs (as defined below); commercial paper and other high quality obligations of U.S. or foreign companies; asset-backed securities, including asset-backed commercial paper; mortgage-related securities; and repurchase agreements. These instruments may bear fixed, variable or floating rates of interest or may be zero-coupon securities. The Fund also may invest in shares of other money market funds, including funds advised by the Adviser. Under normal market conditions, the Fund intends to invest more than 25% of its total assets in bank obligations. A substantial portion of the Fund may be invested in securities that are issued or traded pursuant to exemptions from registration under the federal securities laws.
European Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by a bank outside of the United States. European Time Deposits (ETDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks. Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. These instruments have different risks than those associated with the obligations of U.S. banks operating in the United States.
The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Money Market Portfolio, which has substantially similar investment policies to the Fund. When the Fund invests in this master-feeder structure, the Funds only investments are shares of the Portfolio, and it participates in the investment returns achieved by the Portfolio. Descriptions in this section of the investment activities of the Fund also generally describe the expected investment activities of the Portfolio.
Principal Risks
You could lose money by investing in the Fund. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) or any other government agency. Although the Fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, the paragraph above is replaced by the paragraph below:
You could lose money by investing in the Fund. Under new requirements for money market funds, beginning October 12, 2016, the Fund will no longer buy and sell its shares at a fixed NAV per share, but will instead buy and sell its shares using a floating NAV reflecting the current market-based values of its portfolio holdings. Because the share price of the Fund will fluctuate, when you sell your shares they may be worth more or less than what you originally paid for them. The Fund may impose a fee upon the sale of your shares or may temporarily suspend your ability to sell shares if the Funds liquidity falls below required minimums because of market conditions or other factors. An investment in the Fund is subject to investment risks, including possible loss of principal, is not a deposit in a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The Funds sponsor has no legal obligation to provide financial support to the Fund, and you should not expect that the sponsor will provide financial support to the Fund at any time.
General risks associated with the Funds and the Portfolios investment policies and investment strategies are discussed below.
Counterparty Risk: The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties with which the Fund enters into repurchase agreements and other transactions. If a counterparty fails to meet its contractual obligations, the Fund may be unable to terminate the transaction, and it may be delayed or prevented from realizing on any collateral in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding relating to the counterparty.
Debt Securities Risk: The values of debt securities may increase or decrease as a result of the following: market fluctuations, increases in interest rates, actual or perceived inability or unwillingness of issuers, guarantors or liquidity providers to make scheduled principal or interest payments or illiquidity in debt securities markets; the risk of low rates of return due to reinvestment of securities during periods of falling interest rates or repayment by issuers with higher coupon or interest rates; and/or the risk of low income due to falling interest rates. To the extent that interest rates rise, certain underlying obligations may be paid off substantially slower than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply. The U.S. is
2
experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. A rising interest rate environment may cause the value of the Funds fixed income securities to decrease, an adverse impact on the liquidity of the Funds fixed income securities, and increased volatility of the fixed income markets. If the principal on a debt obligation is prepaid before expected, the prepayments of principal may have to be reinvested in obligations paying interest at lower rates. During periods of falling interest rates, the income received by the Fund may decline. Changes in interest rates will likely have a greater effect on the values of debt securities of longer durations. Returns on investments in debt securities could trail the returns on other investment options, including investments in equity securities.
Financial Institutions Risk: Changes in the creditworthiness of financial institutions (such as banks and broker-dealers) may adversely affect the values of instruments of issuers in financial industries. Adverse developments in banking and other financial industries may cause the Fund to underperform relative to other funds that invest more broadly across different industries or have a smaller exposure to financial institutions. Changes in governmental regulation and oversight of financial institutions may have an adverse effect on the financial condition of a financial institution.
Income Risk: The Funds income may decline due to falling interest rates or other factors. Issuers of securities held by the Fund may call or redeem the securities during periods of falling interest rates, and the Fund would likely be required to reinvest in securities paying lower interest rates. If an obligation held by the Fund is prepaid, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayment in other obligations paying income at lower rates.
Large Shareholder Risk: To the extent a large proportion of the interests of the Portfolio are held by a small number of investors (or a single investor), including funds or accounts over which the Adviser has investment discretion, the Portfolio is subject to the risk that these investors will purchase or redeem Portfolio interests in large amounts rapidly or unexpectedly, including as a result of an asset allocation decision made by the Adviser. These transactions could adversely affect the ability of the Portfolio to conduct its investment program.
Liquidity Risk: Lack of a ready market or restrictions on resale may limit the ability of the Fund to sell a security at an advantageous time or price or at all. Illiquid securities may trade at a discount from comparable, more liquid investments and may be subject to wide fluctuations in market value. Illiquidity of the Funds holdings may limit the ability of the Fund to obtain cash to meet redemptions on a timely basis. In addition, the Fund, due to limitations on investments in any illiquid securities and/or the difficulty in purchasing and selling such investments, may be unable to achieve its desired level of exposure to a certain market or sector.
Low Short-Term Interest Rates: At the date of this Prospectus, short-term interest rates are at historically low levels, and so the Funds yield is very low. It is possible that the Fund will generate an insufficient amount of income to pay its expenses, and that it will not be able to pay a daily dividend and may have a negative yield (i.e., it may lose money on an operating basis). It is possible that the Fund will maintain a substantial portion of its assets in cash, on which it would earn little, if any, income.
Market Risk: The Funds investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, and general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities markets. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors including, but not limited to, economic growth or recession, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived creditworthiness of issuers, and general market liquidity. The Fund is subject to the risk that geopolitical events will disrupt securities markets and adversely affect global economies and markets.
Master/Feeder Structure Risk: The Fund pursues its objective by investing substantially all of its assets in another pooled investment vehicle (a master fund). The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the ability of the master fund to meet its investment objective. The Adviser serves as investment adviser to the master fund, leading to potential conflicts of interest. The Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the expenses incurred by the master fund. Substantial redemptions by other investors in a master fund may affect the master funds investment program adversely and limit the ability of the master fund to achieve its objective.
Money Market Fund Regulatory Risk: In July 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted regulatory changes that will affect the structure and operation of money market funds. The revised regulations impose new liquidity requirements on money market funds, permit (and in some cases require) money market funds to impose liquidity fees on redemptions, and permit money market funds to impose gates restricting redemptions from the funds. Institutional money market funds will be required to have a floating NAV. (U.S. government money market funds are exempt from a number of the new regulations.) There are a number of other changes under the revised regulations that relate to diversification,
3
disclosure, reporting and stress testing requirements. These changes and other proposed amendments to the regulations governing money market funds could significantly affect the money market fund industry generally and the operation or performance of the Fund specifically and may have significant adverse effects on a money market funds investment return and on the liquidity of investments in money market funds.
Money Market Risk: An investment in a money market fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Although a money market fund generally seeks to preserve the value of its shares at $1.00 per share, there can be no assurance that it will do so, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund. A major or unexpected increase in interest rates or a decline in the credit quality of an issuer or entity providing credit support, an inactive trading market for money market instruments, or adverse market, economic, industry, political, regulatory, geopolitical, and other conditions could cause a money market funds share price to fall below $1.00. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will not maintain a constant net asset value per share. Beginning at that time, the value of the Funds shares will be calculated to four decimal places and will vary reflecting the value of the portfolio of investments held by the Fund. It is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.
Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk: Investments in mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to the risk of significant credit downgrades, illiquidity, and defaults to a greater extent than many other types of fixed-income investments. During periods of falling interest rates, mortgage- and asset-backed securities may be called or prepaid, which may result in the Fund having to reinvest proceeds in other investments at a lower interest rate. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of mortgage- and asset-backed securities may extend, which may lock in a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and interest rate sensitivity, and reduce the value of the security. Enforcing rights against the underlying assets or collateral may be difficult, and the underlying assets or collateral may be insufficient if the issuer defaults.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk: Non-U.S. securities (including depositary receipts) are subject to political, regulatory, and economic risks not present in domestic investments. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. entity than about a U.S. entity, and many non-U.S. entities are not subject to accounting, auditing, legal and financial report standards comparable to those in the United States. Further, such entities and/or their securities may be subject to risks associated with currency controls; expropriation; changes in tax policy; greater market volatility; differing securities market structures; higher transaction costs; and various administrative difficulties, such as delays in clearing and settling portfolio transactions or in receiving payment of dividends. Securities traded on foreign markets may be less liquid (harder to sell) than securities traded domestically. Foreign governments may impose restrictions on the repatriation of capital to the U.S. In addition, to the extent investments are made in a limited number of countries, events in those countries will have a more significant impact on the Fund. Investments in depositary receipts may be less liquid and more volatile than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.
Rapid Changes in Interest Rates Risk: Rapid changes in interest rates may cause significant requests to redeem Fund Shares, and possibly cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities at a loss to satisfy those requests.
Repurchase Agreement Risk: Repurchase agreements may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. If the Funds counterparty should default on its obligations and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the collateral, or if the value of the collateral is insufficient, the Fund may realize a loss.
U.S. Government Securities Risk: Certain U.S. Government securities are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States; others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agencys obligations; and still others are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency, instrumentality, or enterprise. Although U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) may be chartered or sponsored by Congress, they are not funded by Congressional appropriations, and their securities are not issued by the U.S. Treasury, are not supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, and involve increased credit risks.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities Risk: During periods of increasing interest rates, changes in the coupon rates of variable or floating rate securities may lag behind the changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in coupon rates. Alternatively, during periods of declining interest rates, the coupon rates on such securities will typically readjust downward resulting in a lower yield. In addition, investment in derivative variable rate securities, such as inverse floaters, whose rates vary inversely with market rates of interest, or range floaters or capped floaters, whose rates are subject to periodic or lifetime caps, or in securities that pay a rate of interest determined by applying a multiple to the variable rate involves special risks as compared to investment in a fixed-rate security and may involve leverage.
4
Zero Coupon Bond Risk: Zero-coupon bonds usually trade at a deep discount from their face or par values and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current distributions of interest.
Performance
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the risks of investing in the ILR Fund by illustrating the variability of the Funds returns from year-to-year. The Funds past performance does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. Additionally, the performance information prior to October 15, 2007 (inception date of the Funds Investment Class) is that of the Fund when it was a single class (original share class), and matches the performance of the Premier Class (formerly, the Institutional Class shares). The Funds original share class had lower expenses and typically higher returns than the Investment Class. The primary difference in expenses is the lower distribution (12b-1) fee and absence of shareholder servicing plan and associated fees. Current performance information for the Fund is available toll free by calling (877) 521-4083 or by visiting our website at www.ssga.com/cash.
Annual Total Returns (years ended 12/31)
Highest Quarterly Return: 1.33% (Q4, 2006)
Lowest Quarterly Return: 0.00% (Q4, 2015)
Average Annual Total Returns (for periods ended 12/31/15)
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund |
1-Year | 5-Years |
Since
Inception |
Inception
Date |
||||||||||||
Investment Class |
0.00 | % | 0.00 | % | 0.44 | % | 10/15/2007 |
To obtain the Funds current yield, please call (877) 521-4083.
Investment Adviser
SSGA FM serves as the investment adviser to the Fund.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
Purchase Minimums
To establish an account |
$2,000.00 | |
To add to an existing account |
$100.00 |
You may purchase or redeem Fund Shares on any day the Fund is open for business.
You may purchase or redeem Fund Shares by written request or wire transfer. Written requests should be sent to:
By Mail:
Send a signed letter to:
Neuberger Berman Funds
c/o State Street Institutional Trust Funds
P.O. Box 8048
Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8048
By Overnight:
Send a signed letter to:
Neuberger Berman Funds
c/o State Street Institutional Trust Funds
30 Dan Road
Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809
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By Telephone:
For wire transfer instructions, please call (800) 877-9700 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Eastern time. Redemptions by telephone are permitted only if you previously have been authorized for these transactions.
If you wish to purchase or redeem Fund Shares through a broker, bank or other financial intermediary (Financial Intermediary), please contact that Financial Intermediary directly. Your Financial Intermediary may have different or additional requirements for opening an account and/or for the processing of purchase and redemption orders, or may be closed at times when the Fund is open.
Tax Information
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Funds distributions are generally taxed as ordinary income, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged arrangement, such as a 401(k) plan or individual retirement account. Any withdrawals made from such tax-advantaged arrangement may be taxable to you.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
If you purchase Fund Shares through a broker-dealer or other Financial Intermediary (such as a bank), the Adviser or its affiliates may pay the Financial Intermediary for certain activities related to the Fund, including educational training programs, conferences, the development of technology platforms and reporting systems, or other services related to the sale or promotion of the Fund. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your Financial Intermediarys website for more information.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES, PRINCIPAL STRATEGIES AND RISKS
Investment Objective
The investment objective of the ILR Fund, as stated in the Fund Summary, may be changed without shareholder approval.
Principal Investment Strategies
The ILR Fund follows a disciplined investment process in which SSGA FM bases its decisions on the relative attractiveness of different money market instruments. In the Advisers opinion, the attractiveness of an instrument may vary depending on the general level of interest rates, as well as imbalances of supply and demand in the market. The Fund invests in accordance with regulatory requirements applicable to money market funds, which require, among other things, the Fund to invest only in short-term, high quality debt obligations (generally, securities that have remaining maturities of 397 calendar days or less and either have been rated in one of the two highest short-term rating categories or are considered by the Fund to be of comparable quality), to maintain a maximum dollar-weighted average maturity of sixty (60) days or less, and to meet requirements as to portfolio diversification and liquidity.
The Fund currently seeks to maintain a stable net asset value (NAV) per share of $1.00 by valuing its portfolio securities using amortized cost. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will continue to be a money market fund and the NAV of the Funds shares will float, fluctuating with changes in the values of the Funds portfolio securities. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will typically accept purchase and redemption orders multiple times per day, and calculate its NAV at each such time.
The Fund attempts to meet its investment objective by investing in a broad range of money market instruments. These may include among other things: U.S. government securities, including U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds and other securities issued or guaranteed as to principal and/or interest, as applicable, by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities; certificates of deposits and time deposits of U.S. and foreign banks (including ECDs, ETDs and YCDs (as defined below); commercial paper and other high quality obligations of U.S. or foreign companies; asset-backed securities, including asset-backed commercial paper; mortgage-related securities; and repurchase agreements. These instruments may bear fixed, variable or floating rates of interest or may be zero-coupon securities. The Fund also may invest in shares of other money market funds, including funds advised by the Adviser. Under normal market conditions, the Fund intends to invest more than 25% of its total assets in bank obligations. A substantial portion of the Fund may be invested in securities that are issued or traded pursuant to exemptions from registration under the federal securities laws.
European Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by a bank outside of the United States. European Time Deposits (ETDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in foreign branches of U.S. banks and foreign banks. Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs) are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. These instruments have different risks than those associated with the obligations of U.S. banks operating in the United States.
The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Money Market Portfolio, which has substantially similar investment policies to the Fund. When the Fund invests in this master-feeder structure, the Funds only investments are shares of the Portfolio, and it participates in the investment returns achieved by the Portfolio. Descriptions in this section of the investment activities of the Fund also generally describe the expected investment activities of the Portfolio.
Additional Information About Risks
Call/Prepayment Risk. Call/prepayment risk is the risk that an issuer will exercise its right to pay principal on an obligation held by the Fund earlier than expected or required. This may occur, for example, when there is a decline in interest rates, and an issuer of bonds or preferred stock redeems the bonds or stock in order to replace them with obligations on which it is required to pay a lower interest or dividend rate. It may also occur when there is an unanticipated increase in the rate at which mortgages or other receivables underlying mortgage- or asset-backed securities held by the Fund are prepaid. In any such case, the Fund may be forced to invest the prepaid amounts in lower-yielding investments, resulting in a decline in the Funds income.
Counterparty Risk. The Fund will be subject to credit risk with respect to the counterparties with which the Fund enters into repurchase agreements and other transactions. If a counterparty fails to meet its contractual obligations, the Fund may be unable to terminate the transaction, and it may be delayed or prevented from realizing on any collateral in the event of a bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding relating to the counterparty.
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Credit Risk. Credit risk is the risk that an issuer, guarantor or liquidity provider of a fixed-income security held by the Fund may be unable or unwilling, or may be perceived (whether by market participants, ratings agencies, pricing services or otherwise) as unable or unwilling, to make timely principal and/or interest payments, or to otherwise honor its obligations. It includes the risk that the security will be downgraded by a credit rating agency; generally, lower credit quality issuers present higher credit risks. An actual or perceived decline in creditworthiness of an issuer of a fixed-income security held by the Fund may result in a decrease in the value of the security. It is possible that the ability of an issuer to meet its obligations will decline substantially during the period when the Fund owns securities of the issuer or that the issuer will default on its obligations or that the obligations of the issuer will be limited or restructured. The credit rating assigned to any particular investment does not necessarily reflect the issuers current financial condition and does not reflect an assessment of an investments volatility or liquidity. Securities rated in the lowest category of investment grade are considered to have speculative characteristics. If a security held by the Fund loses its rating or its rating is downgraded, the Fund may nonetheless continue to hold the security in the discretion of the Adviser. In the case of asset-backed or mortgage-related securities, changes in the actual or perceived ability of the obligors on the underlying assets or mortgages to make payments of interest and/or principal may affect the values of those securities.
Debt Securities Risk. The values of debt securities may increase or decrease as a result of the following: market fluctuations, increases in interest rates, actual or perceived inability or unwillingness of issuers, guarantors or liquidity providers to make scheduled principal or interest payments or illiquidity in debt securities markets; the risk of low rates of return due to reinvestment of securities during periods of falling interest rates or repayment by issuers with higher coupon or interest rates; and/or the risk of low income due to falling interest rates. To the extent that interest rates rise, certain underlying obligations may be paid off substantially slower than originally anticipated and the value of those securities may fall sharply. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. A rising interest rate environment may cause the value of the Funds fixed income securities to decrease, an adverse impact on the liquidity of the Funds fixed income securities, and increased volatility of the fixed income markets. If the principal on a debt obligation is prepaid before expected, the prepayments of principal may have to be reinvested in obligations paying interest at lower rates. During periods of falling interest rates, the income received by the Fund may decline. Changes in interest rates will likely have a greater effect on the values of debt securities of longer durations. Returns on investments in debt securities could trail the returns on other investment options, including investments in equity securities.
Extension Risk. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of slower-than-expected principal payments. This may increase the period of time during which an investment earns a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and reduce the value of the security. Extension risk may be heightened during periods of adverse economic conditions generally, as payment rates decline due to higher unemployment levels and other factors.
Financial Institutions Risk. Some instruments are issued or guaranteed by financial institutions, such as banks and brokers, or are collateralized by securities issued or guaranteed by financial institutions. Changes in the creditworthiness of any of these institutions may adversely affect the values of instruments of issuers in financial industries. Financial institutions may be particularly sensitive to certain economic factors such as interest rate changes, adverse developments in the real estate market, fiscal and monetary policy and general economic cycles. Adverse developments in banking and other financial industries may cause the Fund to underperform relative to other funds that invest more broadly across different industries or have a smaller exposure to financial institutions. Changes in governmental regulation and oversight of financial institutions may have an adverse effect on the financial condition or the earnings or operations of a financial institution and on the types and amounts of businesses in which a financial institution may engage. An investor may be delayed or prevented from exercising certain remedies against a financial institution. The amount of the Funds assets that may be invested in any financial institution, or financial institutions generally, may be limited by applicable law.
Income Risk. The Funds income may decline due to falling interest rates or other factors. Issuers of securities held by the Fund may call or redeem the securities during periods of falling interest rates, and the Fund would likely be required to reinvest in securities paying lower interest rates. If an obligation held by the Fund is prepaid, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayment in other obligations paying income at lower rates. A reduction in the income earned by the Fund may limit the Funds ability to achieve its objective.
Interest Rate Risk. Interest rate risk is the risk that the securities held by the Fund will decline in value because of increases in market interest rates. Debt securities with longer durations tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates, usually making them more volatile than debt securities with shorter durations. For example, the value of a security with a duration of five years would be expected to decrease by 5% for every 1% increase in interest rates. Falling interest rates also create the potential for a decline in the Funds income and yield. Interest-only and principal-only securities are especially sensitive to interest rate changes, which can affect not only their prices but can also change the income flows and repayment assumptions about those investments. Variable and floating rate securities also generally increase or decrease in value in response to changes in interest rates, although generally to a
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lesser degree than fixed-rate securities. A substantial increase in interest rates may also have an adverse impact on the liquidity of a security, especially those with longer durations. The U.S. is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. However, economic recovery and the tapering of the Federal Reserve Boards quantitative easing program increase the likelihood that interest rates will rise in the future. Changes in governmental policy, including changes in central bank monetary policy, could cause interest rates to rise rapidly, or cause investors to expect a rapid rise in interest rates. This could lead to heightened levels of interest rate, volatility and liquidity risks for the fixed income markets generally and could have a substantial and immediate effect on the values of the Funds investments.
Large Shareholder Risk. To the extent a large proportion of the interests of the Portfolio are highly concentrated or held by a small number of investors (or a single investor), including funds or accounts over which the Adviser has investment discretion, the Portfolio is subject to the risk that these investors will purchase or redeem Portfolio interests in large amounts rapidly or unexpectedly, including as a result of an asset allocation decision made by the Adviser. These transactions could adversely affect the ability of the Portfolio to conduct its investment program. For example, they could require the Portfolio to sell portfolio securities or purchase portfolio securities unexpectedly and incur substantial transaction costs and/or accelerate the realization of taxable income and/or gains to investors, or the Portfolio may be required to sell its more liquid portfolio investments to meet a large redemption, in which case the Portfolios remaining assets may be less liquid, more volatile, and more difficult to price. The Portfolio may hold a relatively large proportion of its assets in cash in anticipation of large redemptions, diluting its investment returns.
Liquidity Risk. Liquidity risk is the risk that the Fund may not be able to dispose of securities or close out derivatives transactions readily at a favorable time or prices (or at all) or at prices approximating those at which the Fund currently values them. For example, certain investments may be subject to restrictions on resale, may trade in the over-the-counter market or in limited volume, or may not have an active trading market. Illiquid securities may trade at a discount from comparable, more liquid investments and may be subject to wide fluctuations in market value. It may be difficult for the Fund to value illiquid securities accurately. The market for certain investments may become illiquid under adverse market or economic conditions independent of any specific adverse changes in the conditions of a particular issuer. Disposal of illiquid securities may entail registration expenses and other transaction costs that are higher than those for liquid securities. The Fund may seek to borrow money to meet its obligations (including among other things redemption obligations) if it is unable to dispose of illiquid investments, resulting in borrowing expenses and possible leveraging of the Fund. In some cases, due to unanticipated levels of illiquidity the Fund may choose to meet its redemption obligations wholly or in part by distributions of assets in-kind.
Low Short-Term Interest Rate Risk. At the date of this Prospectus, short-term interest rates are at historically low levels, and so the Funds yield is very low. It is possible that the Fund will generate an insufficient amount of income to pay its expenses, and that it will not be able to pay a daily dividend and may have a negative yield (i.e., it may lose money on an operating basis). It is possible that the Fund will maintain a substantial portion of its assets in cash, on which it would earn little, if any, income.
Market Disruption and Geopolitical Risk. The Fund is subject to the risk that geopolitical events will disrupt securities markets and adversely affect global economies and markets. War, terrorism, and related geopolitical events have led, and in the future may lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on U.S. and world economies and markets generally. Likewise, natural and environmental disasters and systemic market dislocations may be highly disruptive to economies and markets. Those events as well as other changes in foreign and domestic economic and political conditions also could adversely affect individual issuers or related groups of issuers, securities markets, interest rates, credit ratings, inflation, investor sentiment, and other factors affecting the value of the Funds investments. Given the increasing interdependence among global economies and markets, conditions in one country, market, or region might adversely affect markets, issuers, and/or foreign exchange rates in other countries, including the U.S. Any partial or complete dissolution of the European Monetary Union, or any increased uncertainty as to its status, could have significant adverse effects on currency and financial markets, and on the values of the Funds investments. Securities and financial markets may be susceptible to market manipulation or other fraudulent trade practices, which could disrupt the orderly functioning of these markets or adversely affect the values of investments traded in these markets, including investments held by the Fund. To the extent the Fund has focused its investments in the market or index of a particular region, adverse geopolitical and other events could have a disproportionate impact on the Fund.
Market Risk. Market prices of investments held by the Fund will go up or down, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably. The Funds investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities markets. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors including, but not limited to, economic growth or recession, changes in interest rates, changes in actual or perceived creditworthiness of issuers and general market liquidity. Even if general economic conditions do not change, the value of an investment in the Fund could decline if the particular industries, sectors or companies in which the Fund invests do not perform well or are adversely affected by events. Further, legal, political, regulatory and tax changes also may cause fluctuations in markets and securities prices.
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Market Volatility; Government Intervention Risk. Market dislocations and other external events, such as the failures or near failures of significant financial institutions, dislocations in investment or currency markets, corporate or governmental defaults or credit downgrades, or poor collateral performance, may subject the Fund to significant risk of substantial volatility and loss. Governmental and regulatory authorities have taken, and may in the future take, actions to provide or arrange credit supports to financial institutions whose operations have been compromised by credit market dislocations and to restore liquidity and stability to financial systems in their jurisdictions; the implementation of such governmental interventions and their impact on both the markets generally and the Funds investment program in particular can be uncertain. In recent periods, governmental and non-governmental issuers have defaulted on, or have been forced to restructure, their debts, and many other issuers have faced difficulties obtaining credit. These market conditions may continue, worsen or spread, including, without limitation, in Europe or Asia. Defaults or restructurings by governments or others of their debts could have substantial adverse effects on economies, financial markets, and asset valuations around the world. In recent periods, financial regulators, including the U.S. Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank, have taken steps to maintain historically low interest rates, such as by purchasing bonds. Some governmental authorities have taken steps to devalue their currencies substantially or have taken other steps to counter actual or anticipated market or other developments. Steps by those regulators to implement, or to curtail or taper, such activities could have substantial negative effects on financial markets. The withdrawal of support, failure of efforts in response to a financial crisis, or investor perception that these efforts are not succeeding could negatively affect financial markets generally as well as the values and liquidity of certain securities.
Master/Feeder Structure Risk. The Fund pursues its objective by investing substantially all of its assets in another pooled investment vehicle (a master fund or Portfolio). The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the ability of the master fund to meet its investment objective. The ability of the Fund to meet its objective may be adversely affected by the purchase and redemption activities of other investors in the master fund. The ability of the Fund to meet redemption requests will depend on its ability to redeem its interest in the master fund. The Adviser or an affiliate serves as investment adviser to the master fund, leading to potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates will receive fees based on the amount of assets invested in the master fund. Investment by the Fund in the master fund may be beneficial in the management of the master fund, by helping to achieve economies of scale or enhancing cash flows. Due to this and other factors, the Adviser may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates in lieu of investments by the Fund directly in portfolio securities, or may have an incentive to invest in such master fund over a master fund sponsored or managed by others. Similarly, the Adviser may have an incentive to delay or decide against the sale of interests held by the Fund in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. It is possible that other clients of the Adviser or its affiliates will purchase or sell interests in a master fund sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates at prices and at times more favorable than those at which the Fund does so. The Fund will bear its pro rata portion of the expenses incurred by the master fund.
Money Market Fund Regulatory Risk. In July 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) adopted regulatory changes that will affect the structure and operation of money market funds. The revised regulations impose new liquidity requirements on money market funds, permit (and in some cases require) money market funds to impose liquidity fees on redemptions, and permit money market funds to impose gates restricting redemptions from the funds. Institutional money market funds will be required to have a floating NAV. (U.S. government money market funds are exempt from a number of the new regulations.) There are a number of other changes under the revised regulations that relate to diversification, disclosure, reporting and stress testing requirements. These changes and other proposed amendments to the regulations governing money market funds could significantly affect the money market fund industry generally.
Money Market Risk. An investment in a money market fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Although a money market fund generally seeks to preserve the value of its shares at $1.00 per share, there can be no assurance that it will do so, and it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund. A major or unexpected increase in interest rates or a decline in the credit quality of an issuer or entity providing credit support, an inactive trading market for money market instruments, or adverse market, economic, industry, political, regulatory, geopolitical, and other conditions could cause a money market funds share price to fall below $1.00. It is possible that a money market fund will issue and redeem shares at $1.00 per share at times when the fair value of the money market funds portfolio per share is more or less than $1.00. Recent changes in the regulation of money market funds may affect the operations and structures of such funds. A money market fund may be permitted or required to impose redemption fees or to impose limitations on redemptions during periods of high illiquidity in the markets for the investments held by it. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will not maintain a constant net asset value per share. Beginning at that time, the value of the Funds shares will be calculated to four decimal places and will vary reflecting the value of the portfolio of investments held by the Fund. It is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund. None of State Street Corporation, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Global Advisors (SSGA), SSGA FM or their affiliates (State Street Entities) guarantee the value of an investment in a money market fund at $1.00 per share. Investors should have no expectation of capital support to a money market fund from State Street Entities.
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Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk. Investments in mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are subject to the risk of significant credit downgrades, illiquidity, and defaults to a greater extent than many other types of fixed income investments. Mortgage-related securities represent a participation in, or are secured by, mortgage loans. Other asset-backed securities are typically structured like mortgage-related securities, but instead of mortgage loans or interests in mortgage loans, the underlying assets may include, for example, items such as motor vehicle installment sales or installment loan contracts, leases on various types of real and personal property, and receivables from credit card agreements. During periods of falling interest rates, mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities, which typically provide the issuer with the right to prepay the security prior to maturity, may be prepaid, which may result in the Fund having to reinvest the proceeds in other investments at lower interest rates. During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may extend because of slower-than expected principal payments. This may lock in a below market interest rate, increase the securitys duration and interest rate sensitivity, and reduce the value of the security. As a result, mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may have less potential for capital appreciation during periods of declining interest rates than other debt securities of comparable maturities, although they may have a similar risk of decline in market values during periods of rising interest rates. Prepayment rates are difficult to predict and the potential impact of prepayments on the value of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security depends on the terms of the instrument and can result in significant volatility. The price of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security also depends on the credit quality and adequacy of the underlying assets or collateral. Defaults on the underlying assets, if any, may impair the value of a mortgage-related or other asset-backed security. For some asset-backed securities in which the Fund invests, such as those backed by credit card receivables, the underlying cash flows may not be supported by a security interest in a related asset. Moreover, the values of mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities may be substantially dependent on the servicing of the underlying asset pools, and are therefore subject to risks associated with the negligence or malfeasance by their servicers and to the credit risk of their servicers. In certain situations, the mishandling of related documentation may also affect the rights of securities holders in and to the underlying collateral. There may be legal and practical limitations on the enforceability of any security interest granted with respect to underlying assets, or the value of the underlying assets, if any, may be insufficient if the issuer defaults.
In a forward roll transaction, the Fund will sell a mortgage-related security to a bank or other permitted entity and simultaneously agree to purchase a similar security from the institution at a later date at an agreed upon price. The mortgage securities that are purchased will bear the same interest rate as those sold, but generally will be collateralized by different pools of mortgages with different prepayment histories than those sold. The values of such transactions will be affected by many of the same factors that affect the values of mortgage-related securities generally. In addition, forward roll transactions may have the effect of creating investment leverage in the Fund.
Non-U.S. Securities Risk. Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers (including depositary receipts) entail risks not typically associated with investing in securities of U.S. issuers. Similar risks may apply to securities traded on a U.S. securities exchange that are issued by entities with significant exposure to non-U.S. countries. In certain countries, legal remedies available to investors may be more limited than those available with regard to U.S. investments. Income and gains with respect to investments in certain countries may be subject to withholding and other taxes. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. entity than about a U.S. entity, and many non-U.S. entities are not subject to accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards, regulatory framework and practices comparable to those in the United States. The securities of some non-U.S. entities are less liquid and at times more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. entities, and could become subject to sanctions or embargoes that adversely affect the Funds investment. Non-U.S. transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions and custody costs may be higher than in the U.S. In addition, there may be a possibility of nationalization or expropriation of assets, imposition of currency exchange controls, confiscatory taxation, and diplomatic developments that could adversely affect the values of the Funds investments in certain non-U.S. countries. Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers also are subject to foreign political and economic risk not associated with U.S. investments, meaning that political events (civil unrest, national elections, changes in political conditions and foreign relations, imposition of exchange controls and repatriation restrictions), social and economic events (labor strikes, rising inflation) and natural disasters occurring in a country where the Fund invests could cause the Funds investments in that country to experience gains or losses.
Rapid Changes in Interest Rates. The values of most instruments held by the Fund are adversely affected by changes in interest rates generally, especially increases in interest rates. Rapid changes in interest rates may cause significant requests to redeem Fund Shares, and possibly cause the Fund to sell portfolio securities at a loss to satisfy those requests. Significant losses would negatively affect the Funds returns and could impair the Funds ability to maintain a stable share price of $1.00.
Reinvestment Risk. Income from the Funds portfolio may decline when the Fund invests the proceeds from investment income, sales of portfolio securities or matured, traded or called debt obligations. For instance, during periods of declining interest rates, an issuer
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of debt obligations may exercise an option to redeem securities prior to maturity, forcing the Fund to reinvest the proceeds in lower-yielding securities. A decline in income received by the Fund from its investments is likely to have a negative effect on the yield and total return of the Fund Shares.
Repurchase Agreement Risk. A repurchase agreement is an agreement to buy a security from a seller at one price and a simultaneous agreement to sell it back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price, typically representing the purchase price plus interest. Repurchase agreements may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. The Funds investment return on such transactions will depend on the counterpartys willingness and ability to perform its obligations under a repurchase agreement. If the Funds counterparty should default on its obligations and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the collateral, or if the value of the collateral is insufficient, the Fund may realize a loss.
Risk of Investment in Other Pools. If the Fund invests in another pooled investment vehicle, it is exposed to the risk that the other pool will not perform as expected. The Fund is exposed indirectly to all of the risks applicable to an investment in such other pool. In addition, lack of liquidity in the underlying pool could result in its value being more volatile than the underlying portfolio of securities, and may limit the ability of the Fund to sell or redeem its interest in the pool at a time or at a price it might consider desirable. The investment policies and limitations of the other pool may not be the same as those of the Fund; as a result, the Fund may be subject to additional or different risks, or may achieve a reduced investment return, as a result of its investment in another pool. If a pool is an exchange-traded fund or other product traded on a securities exchange or otherwise actively traded, its shares may trade at a premium or discount to their NAV, an effect that might be more pronounced in less liquid markets. The Fund bears its proportionate share of the fees and expenses of any pool in which it invests. The Adviser or an affiliate may serve as investment adviser to a pool in which the Fund may invest, leading to potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates may receive fees based on the amount of assets invested in the pool. Investment by the Fund in the pool may be beneficial to the Adviser or an affiliate in the management of the pool, by helping to achieve economies of scale or enhancing cash flows. Due to this and other factors, the Adviser may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates in lieu of investments by the Fund directly in portfolio securities, or may have an incentive to invest in the pool over a pool sponsored or managed by others. Similarly, the Adviser may have an incentive to delay or decide against the sale of interests held by the Fund in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates. It is possible that other clients of the Adviser or its affiliates will purchase or sell interests in a pool sponsored or managed by the Adviser or its affiliates at prices and at times more favorable than those at which the Fund does so.
Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper and Rule 144A Securities Risk. The Fund may invest in commercial paper issued in reliance on the private placement exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act). This commercial paper is commonly called Section 4(a)(2) paper. The Fund may also invest in securities that may be offered and sold only to qualified institutional buyers under Rule 144A of the 1933 Act (Rule 144A securities).
Section 4(a)(2) paper is sold to institutional investors who must agree to purchase the paper for investment and not with a view to public distribution. Any resale by the purchaser must be in a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. Section 4(a)(2) paper normally is resold to other institutional investors like the Fund through or with the assistance of the issuer or investment dealers that make a market in Section 4(a)(2) paper. As a result it suffers from liquidity risk, the risk that the securities may be difficult to value because of the absence of an active market and the risk that it may be sold only after considerable expense and delay, if at all. Rule 144A securities generally must be sold only to other qualified institutional buyers.
Section 4(a)(2) paper and Rule 144A securities will not be considered illiquid for purposes of the Funds limitation on illiquid securities if the Adviser (pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board) determines that a liquid trading market exists for the securities in question. There can be no assurance that a liquid trading market will exist at any time for any particular Section 4(a)(2) paper or Rule 144A securities. The Statement of Additional Information (SAI) addresses the Funds limitation on illiquid securities.
Settlement Risk. Markets in different countries have different clearance and settlement procedures and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of transactions. Delays in settlement may increase credit risk to the Fund, limit the ability of the Fund to reinvest the proceeds of a sale of securities, hinder the ability of the Fund to lend its portfolio securities, and potentially subject the Fund to penalties for its failure to deliver to on-purchasers of securities whose delivery to the Fund was delayed. Delays in the settlement of securities purchased by the Fund may limit the ability of the Fund to sell those securities at times and prices it considers desirable, and may subject the Fund to losses and costs due to its own inability to settle with subsequent purchasers of the securities from it. The Fund may be required to borrow monies it had otherwise expected to receive in connection with the settlement of securities sold by it, in order to meet its obligations to others.
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Stable Share Price Risk. If the market value of one or more of the Funds investments changes substantially, the Fund may not be able to maintain a stable share price of $1.00. This risk typically is higher during periods of rapidly changing interest rates or when issuer credit quality generally is falling, and is made worse when the Fund experiences significant redemption requests. This risk applies for the Fund through October 11, 2016.
U.S. Government Securities Risk. U.S. Government securities, such as Treasury bills, notes and bonds and mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae), are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States; others are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agencys obligations; and still others are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency, instrumentality, or enterprise. Although U.S. Government-sponsored enterprises such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) and the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) may be chartered or sponsored by Congress, they are not funded by Congressional appropriations, and their securities are not issued by the U.S. Treasury nor supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. There is no assurance that the U.S. Government would provide financial support to its agencies and instrumentalities if not required to do so. In addition, certain governmental entities have been subject to regulatory scrutiny regarding their accounting policies and practices and other concerns that may result in legislation, changes in regulatory oversight and/or other consequences that could adversely affect the credit quality, availability, or investment character of securities issued by these entities. The value and liquidity of U.S. Government securities may be affected adversely by changes in the ratings of those securities. Securities issued by the U.S. Treasury historically have been considered to present minimal credit risk. The downgrade in the long-term U.S. credit rating by at least one major rating agency has introduced greater uncertainty about the ability of the U.S. to repay its obligations. A further credit rating downgrade or a U.S. credit default could decrease the value and increase the volatility of the Funds investments.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities. Variable or floating rate securities are debt securities with variable or floating interest rates payments. Variable or floating rate securities bear rates of interest that are adjusted periodically according to formulae intended generally to reflect market rates of interest and allow the Fund to participate (determined in accordance with the terms of the securities) in increases in interest rates through upward adjustments of the coupon rates on the securities. However, during periods of increasing interest rates, changes in the coupon rates may lag behind the changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in coupon rates. Alternatively, during periods of declining interest rates, the coupon rates on such securities will typically readjust downward resulting in a lower yield. The Fund may also invest in variable or floating rate equity securities, whose dividend payments vary based on changes in market rates of interest or other factors.
Zero-Coupon Bond Risk. Zero-coupon bonds are debt obligations that are generally issued at a discount and payable in full at maturity, and that do not provide for current payments of interest prior to maturity. Zero-coupon bonds usually trade at a deep discount from their face or par values and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current distributions of interest. When interest rates rise, the values of zero-coupon bonds fall more rapidly than securities paying interest on a current basis, because the Fund is unable to reinvest interest payments at the higher rates.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT NON-PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISKS
The investments described below reflect the Funds and the Portfolios current practices. In addition to the principal risks described above, other risks are described in some of the descriptions of the investments below:
Conflicts of Interest Risk. An investment in the Fund may be subject to a number of actual or potential conflicts of interest. For example, the Adviser or its affiliates may provide services to the Fund, such as securities lending agency services, custodial, administrative, bookkeeping, and accounting services, transfer agency and shareholder servicing, securities brokerage services, and other services for which the Fund would compensate the Adviser and/or such affiliates. The Fund may invest in other pooled investment vehicles sponsored, managed, or otherwise affiliated with the Adviser. There is no assurance that the rates at which the Fund pays fees or expenses to the Adviser or its affiliates, or the terms on which it enters into transactions with the Adviser or its affiliates will be the most favorable available in the market generally or as favorable as the rates the Adviser makes available to other clients. Because of its financial interest, the Adviser may have an incentive to enter into transactions or arrangements on behalf of the Fund with itself or its affiliates in circumstances where it might not have done so in the absence of that interest.
The Adviser and its affiliates serve as investment adviser to other clients and may make investment decisions that may be different from those that will be made by the Adviser on behalf of the Fund. For example, the Adviser may provide asset allocation advice to some clients that may include a recommendation to invest in or redeem from particular issuers while not providing that same recommendation to all clients invested in the same or similar issuers. The Adviser may (subject to applicable law) be simultaneously
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seeking to purchase (or sell) investments for the Fund and to sell (or purchase) the same investment for accounts, funds, or structured products for which it serves as asset manager, or for other clients or affiliates. The Adviser and its affiliates may invest for clients in various securities that are senior, pari passu or junior to, or have interests different from or adverse to, the securities that are owned by the Fund. The Adviser or its affiliates, in connection with its other business activities, may acquire material non-public confidential information that may restrict the Adviser from purchasing securities or selling securities for itself or its clients (including the Fund) or otherwise using such information for the benefit of its clients or itself.
The foregoing does not purport to be a comprehensive list or complete explanation of all potential conflicts of interests which may affect the Fund. The Fund may encounter circumstances, or enter into transactions, in which conflicts of interest that are not listed or discussed above may arise.
Cybersecurity Risk. With the increased use of technologies such as the Internet and the dependence on computer systems to perform business and operational functions, funds (such as the Fund) 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, the Fund, the Portfolio, the Adviser, or a custodian, transfer agent, or other affiliated or third-party service provider may adversely affect the Fund or its shareholders. For instance, cyber-attacks or technical malfunctions may interfere with the processing of shareholder or other transactions, affect the Funds ability to calculate its NAV, cause the release of private shareholder information or confidential Fund information, 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 or technical malfunctions 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 Fund may also incur substantial costs for cybersecurity risk management in order to prevent cyber incidents in the future. The Fund and its 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 Fund relies on third-party service providers for many of its 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 cybersecurity risks or technical malfunctions also are present for issuers of securities in which the Fund invests, which could result in material adverse consequences for such issuers, and may cause the Funds investment in such securities to lose value.
The Funds portfolio holdings disclosure policy is described in the SAI.
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The Fund is a separate, diversified series of the State Street Institutional Investment Trust (the Trust), which is an open-end management investment company organized as a business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The Fund invests as part of a master/feeder structure. The Fund currently seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in the Portfolio, a separate mutual fund, that has substantially identical investment objective, investment policies, and risks as the Fund. All discussions about the Funds investment objective, policies and risks should be understood to refer also to the investment objectives, policies and risks of the Portfolio.
The Fund can withdraw its investment in the Portfolio if, at any time, the Funds Board of Trustees determines that it would be in the best interests of the Funds shareholders, or if the investment objectives of the Portfolio changed so that they were inconsistent with the objectives of the Fund. If the Fund withdraws its investment from the Portfolio, the Fund may invest all of its assets in another mutual fund that has the same investment objective as the Fund, the Adviser may directly manage the Funds assets, or the Board may take such other action it deems appropriate and in the best interests of shareholders of the Fund, which may include liquidation of the Fund.
Investment Adviser
SSGA FM serves as the investment adviser to the Fund and Portfolio and, subject to the supervision of the Board, is responsible for the investment management of the Fund. The Adviser provides an investment management program for the Fund and manages the investment of the Funds assets. The Adviser is a wholly-owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation and is registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The Adviser and certain other affiliates of State Street Corporation make up SSGA. SSGA is one of the worlds largest institutional money managers and the investment management arm of State Street Corporation. As of June 30, 2016, the Adviser managed approximately $398.23 billion in assets and SSGA managed approximately $2.30 trillion in assets. The Advisers principal business address is State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.
The Fund has entered into an investment advisory agreement with the Adviser pursuant to which the Adviser will manage the Funds assets directly, for compensation paid at an annual rate of 0.05% of the Funds average daily net assets, in the event that the Fund were to cease investing substantially all of its assets in its Portfolio or another investment company with essentially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund. The Adviser does not receive any management fees from the Fund under that agreement so long as the Fund continues to invest substantially all of its assets in the Portfolio or in another investment company with essentially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund. The Adviser places all orders for purchases and sales of the Portfolios investments. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the effective management fee paid, reflecting certain fee waivers and expense reimbursements of the Adviser, was 0.05% for the Portfolio.
In addition to any contractual expense limitation for the Fund which is described in the Fund Summary, the Adviser also may voluntarily reduce all or a portion of its fees and/or reimburse expenses for the Fund to the extent necessary to avoid negative yield which may vary from time to time and from Fund to Fund in the Advisers sole discretion. Under an agreement with the Adviser relating to the Voluntary Reduction, the Fund and the Portfolio have agreed to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction beginning on October 1, 2012, subject to certain limitations. The Fund will not be obligated to reimburse the Adviser:
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more than three years after the end of the fiscal year for the Fund in which the Adviser provided a Voluntary Reduction; |
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in respect of any business day for which the net annualized one-day yield is less than 0.00%; |
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to the extent that the amount of the reimbursement to the Adviser on any day exceeds fifty percent of the yield (net of all expenses, exclusive of the reimbursement) of the Fund on that day; |
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to the extent that the amount of such reimbursement would cause the Funds net yield to fall below the Funds minimum net yield as determined by the Adviser in its sole discretion; or |
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in respect of any fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements that are necessary to maintain the Funds contractual total expense limit which is effective at the time of such fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements. |
A reimbursement to the Adviser would increase fund expenses and negatively impact the Funds future yield. There is no guarantee that the Voluntary Reduction will be in effect at any given time or that the Fund will be able to avoid a negative yield. Reimbursement payments by the Fund to the Adviser in connection with the Voluntary Reduction are considered extraordinary
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expenses and are not subject to any contractual expense limitation agreement in effect for the Fund at the time of such payment. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund.
A discussion regarding the Boards consideration of the Funds Investment Advisory Agreement is provided in the Trusts Semi-Annual Report to Shareholders for the period ended June 30, 2015.
The Administrator, Sub-Administrator and Custodian
The Adviser serves as administrator of the Fund. The amount of the fee paid to the Adviser for administrative services may vary by share class. The Fund currently pays the Adviser an administrative fee at the annual rate of 0.05% in respect of the class of shares in this Prospectus. State Street Bank and Trust Company (State Street), a subsidiary of State Street Corporation, serves as the sub-administrator for the Fund for a fee that is paid by the Adviser. State Street also serves as custodian of the Fund for a separate fee that is paid by the Fund. SSGA FM serves as administrator of the Portfolio and State Street serves as sub-administrator and custodian of the Portfolio.
The Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. is the transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent (the Transfer Agent).
The Distributor
State Street Global Markets, LLC serves as the Funds distributor (SSGM or the Distributor) pursuant to the Distribution Agreement between SSGM and the Trust.
The Servicing Agent
Neuberger Berman Management LLC (Neuberger Berman) serves as the servicing agent for shareholders of mutual funds distributed and advised by Neuberger Berman (a Neuberger Berman Fund) that are also shareholders of a Fund.
Additional Information
The Trustees of the Trust oversee generally the operations of the Fund and the Trust. The Trust enters into contractual arrangements with various parties, including among others the Funds investment adviser, custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, who provide services to the Fund. Shareholders are not parties to any such contractual arrangements or intended beneficiaries of those contractual arrangements, and those contractual arrangements are not intended to create in any shareholder any right to enforce them directly against the service providers or to seek any remedy under them directly against the service providers.
This Prospectus provides information concerning the Trust and the Fund that you should consider in determining whether to purchase shares of the Fund. Neither this Prospectus, nor the related SAI, is intended, or should be read, to be or to give rise to an agreement or contract between the Trust or the Fund and any investor, or to give rise to any rights in any shareholder or other person other than any rights under federal or state law that may not be waived.
Note : This prospectus is intended to relate principally to purchases of shares through Neuberger Berman. Information appearing below assumes that shares are purchased and redeemed through Neuberger Berman and is based on information previously provided by Neuberger Berman to the Fund.
Determination of Net Asset Value
Until October 11, 2016, the ILR Fund determines its NAV per share once each business day at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) except for days when the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) closes earlier than its regular closing time, in which event the Fund will determine its NAV at the earlier closing time (the time when the Fund determines its NAV per share is referred to herein as the Valuation Time). Until October 11, 2016, the Fund seeks to maintain a $1.00 per share NAV and, accordingly, uses the amortized cost valuation method, in compliance with the risk limiting conditions of Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act, to value its portfolio instruments. The amortized cost valuation method initially prices an instrument at its cost and thereafter assumes a constant amortization to maturity of any discount or premium, regardless of the impact of fluctuating interest rates on the market value of the instrument.
Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will determine its NAV per share three times each business day at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET except for days when the NYSEs regular closing is prior to 3 p.m. ET, in which event the Fund will determine its final NAV for the day at the earlier closing time. Also effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will calculate its NAV to four decimal places.
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Effective October 12, 2016, the NAV of each class of the Funds shares is calculated by dividing the value of the assets of the Fund attributable to that class less the liabilities of the Fund attributable to that class by the number of shares in the class outstanding. The Fund values each security or other investment pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board of Trustees. Securities or other investments may be valued at fair value, as determined in good faith and pursuant to procedures approved by the Portfolios Board of Trustees, under certain limited circumstances. For example, fair value pricing may be used when market quotations are not readily available or reliable, such as when (i) trading for a security is restricted; or (ii) a significant event, as determined by the Adviser, that may affect the value of one or more securities or other investments held by the Fund occurs after the close of a related exchange but before the determination of the Funds NAV. Attempts to determine the fair value of securities or other investments introduce an element of subjectivity to the pricing of securities or other investments. As a result, the price of a security or other investment determined through fair valuation techniques may differ from the price quoted or published by other sources and may not accurately reflect the price a Fund would have received had it sold the investment. To the extent that the Fund invests in the shares of other registered open-end investment companies that are not traded on an exchange (mutual funds), such shares are valued at their published net asset values per share as reported by the funds. The prospectuses of these funds explain the circumstances under which the funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.
A business day is one on which the NYSE is open for regular trading. The Federal Reserve is closed on certain holidays on which the NYSE is open. These holidays are Columbus Day and Veterans Day. On these holidays, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because Federal Funds wiring does not occur on days when the Federal Reserve is closed. The Fund reserve the right to accept orders to purchase or redeem shares, or to continue to accept such orders following the close of the NYSE, on any day that is not a business day or any day on which the NYSE closes early, provided the Federal Reserve remains open. As noted in this Prospectus, the Fund may invest in securities listed on foreign exchanges, or otherwise traded in a foreign market, and those securities may trade on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares. Consequently, the NAV of the Funds shares may change on days when shareholders are not able to purchase or redeem the Funds shares. The Fund also may establish special hours on those days to determine the Funds NAV. In the event that the Fund invokes the right to accept orders to purchase or redeem shares on any day that is not a business day or adopt special hours of operation, the Fund will post advance notice of these events at www.ssga.com/cash.
If you hold shares of the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary, your intermediary may offer additional services and account features that are not described in this Prospectus. Please contact your intermediary directly for an explanation of these services.
Investing in State Street Institutional Investment Trust Shares
Mutual funds advised by SSGA FM (the State Street Funds) and their service providers have a legal obligation to collect from you certain personal information about you at the time you open an account in order to verify your identity and the source of your payment. If you do not provide this information, you may not be able to open an account with the State Street Funds. If the State Street Funds believe that they have uncovered unlawful activity, the State Street Funds and their service providers may close your account and take any action they deem reasonable or required by law. The State Street Funds reserve the right to reject any purchase order.
Requests for transactions in the State Street Funds will be processed when they are received in good order. Good order means that the request is in an accurate and complete form, and all applicable documents have been received in such accurate and complete form (including typically, a signed application and medallion-guaranteed documents), and, for a purchase request, the check or wired funds have cleared.
Purchasing Shares
Investors pay no sales load to invest in the shares of the Fund. The price for Fund Shares is the NAV per share. Purchase requests received by the Fund in good order (a purchase request is in good order if it meets the requirements implemented from time to time by the Transfer Agent or authorized agent of the Fund, and for new accounts includes submission of a completed and signed application and all documentation necessary to open an account) on a business day will, if payment is received by FedWire, be priced at the NAV next determined after the order is accepted by the Fund. Payments received by FedWire prior to the last Valuation time (effective October 12, 2016, generally, 3:00 p.m. ET, unless the Fund closes earlier), will earn dividend accrual for that purchase. All purchases that are made by check will begin earning dividends the following business day after the day the order is accepted. (If you purchase shares by check, your order will not be in good form until the Transfer Agent receives federal funds for the check.) All purchase orders are subject to acceptance by the Fund. The Fund intends to be as fully invested as is practicable; therefore, investments must be made in Federal Funds ( i.e ., monies credited to the account of the Funds custodian bank by a Federal Reserve Bank).
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Neuberger Berman is responsible for transmitting your purchase request and funds in good form and in a timely manner to the applicable Fund(s). The Fund will not be responsible for delays by Neuberger Berman in transmitting your purchase request, including timely transfer of payment, to the Fund.
The Fund reserves the right to cease accepting investments at any time or to reject any investment order.
Until October 11, 2016, the Fund may limit the amount of a purchase order received after 3:00 p.m. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will determine its NAV at 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET. The 8:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. NAV calculation times are intended to facilitate same day settlement.
How to Purchase Shares
By Mail:
An initial investment in the Fund must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Neuberger Berman Fund Application Form, sent to:
Neuberger Berman Funds c/o State Street Institutional Trust Funds 30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809
Your first investment must be at least $2,000. Additional investments can be as little as $100. All checks must be made out to Neuberger Berman Funds. Neuberger Berman will not accept checks made out to you or other parties and signed over to it. Neuberger Berman cannot accept cash, money orders, starter checks, cashiers checks, travelers checks or other cash equivalents. You will be responsible for any losses or fees resulting from a bad check. If necessary, Neuberger Berman may effect sales of Fund shares belonging to you in order to cover these losses. |
By Telephone:
An initial investment in the Fund must be preceded or accompanied by a completed, signed Neuberger Berman Fund Application Form. Neuberger Berman does not accept phone orders for a first investment. To add shares to an existing account using FUNDfone», call (800) 335-9366.
Additional shares will be purchased when your order is accepted by the Fund. Additional investments must be for at least $100.
For your initial investment, send the original, signed Neuberger Berman Account Application Form to the address above. |
Wire Instructions:
Before wiring any money, call (800) 877-9700 for an order confirmation. Please have your financial institution send your wire to Neuberger Bermans account at State Street Bank and Trust Company and include your name, the Fund name, your account number and other information as requested.
State Street Bank/Boston ABA# 011-000028 Attn: NB Deposit Account DDA#9904-199-8
On Columbus Day and Veterans Day, you will not be able to purchase shares by wiring Federal Funds because the Federal Funds wiring does not occur on those days. Payment for Fund Shares must be in Federal Funds (or converted to Federal Funds by the Transfer Agent) by the close of the Federal Reserve. |
By Internet:
You may place an order with Neuberger Berman to purchase shares for your account by placing an order online at www.nb.com.
You will not be able to redeem shares from the account until the original Application has been received. The Fund and the Funds agents are not responsible for transfer errors by the sending or receiving bank and will not be liable for any loss incurred due to a wire transfer not having been received. |
In accordance with certain federal regulations, Neuberger Berman is required to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each entity that applies to open an account. For this reason, when you open (or change ownership of) an account, Neuberger Berman will request certain information, including your name, residential/business address, date of birth (for individuals) and taxpayer
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identification number or other government identification number and other information that will allow us to identify you which will be used to verify your identity. Neuberger Berman may also request to review other identification documents such as driver license, passport or documents showing the existence of the business entity. If you do not provide sufficient information to verify your identity, Neuberger Berman will not open an account for you. As required by law, Neuberger Berman may employ various procedures, such as comparing your information to fraud databases or requesting additional information and documentation from you, to ensure that the information supplied by you is correct. Neuberger Berman reserves the right to reject any purchase for any reason, including failure to provide the Trust with information necessary to confirm your identity as required by law.
Redeeming Shares
An investor may redeem all or any portion of its investment. Redemption orders are processed at the NAV next determined after the Fund receives a redemption order in good form. If the Fund receives a redemption order in good form prior to its Valuation Time on a business day, shares are redeemed and the Fund typically sends payment for redeemed shares on that day, but no later than next business day (unless redemption proceed are sent by check or ACH). If a full redemption order is requested, no dividends will accrue with respect to shares on the day the redemption proceeds are sent. If a redemption order is placed after the last Valuation Time (effective October 12, 2016, generally, 3:00 p.m. ET, unless the Fund closes earlier) the redemption proceeds for the shares will be sent next business day (and dividends will accrue up to, but not including, the day that redemption proceeds are sent).
Certain special limitations affecting redemptions. The SEC has implemented a number of requirements, including liquidity fees and redemption gates, for money market funds based on the amount of fund assets in weekly liquid assets, which generally includes cash, direct obligations of the U.S. government, certain other U.S. government or agency securities, and securities that will mature or are subject to a demand feature that is exercisable and payable within five business days. Effective October 12, 2016, the Fund will pass through to its investors any liquidity fee or suspension of redemptions imposed by the Portfolio on the same terms and conditions as imposed by the Portfolio on the Fund.
Effective October 12, 2016, if the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 30% of its total assets and the Portfolios Board of Trustees determines it is in the best interests of the Portfolio, the Portfolio may immediately impose a liquidity fee of no more than 2% and/or temporarily suspend redemptions for up to 10 business days in any 90 day period. If the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of its total assets at the end of any business day, the Portfolio will impose a liquidity fee of 1% on all redemptions beginning on the next business day, unless the Portfolios Board determines that imposing such a fee would not be in the best interests of the Portfolio or determines that a lower or higher fee (not to exceed 2%) would be in the best interests of the Portfolio, which would remain in effect until weekly liquid assets return to 30% or the Portfolios Board determines that the fee is no longer in the best interests of the Portfolio. All liquidity fees payable by the Fund will be passed through to its investors, would be payable to the Portfolio and could offset any losses realized by the Portfolio when seeking to honor redemption requests. If liquidity fees are imposed or redemptions are suspended by the Portfolio, the Fund will notify shareholders on the Funds website. The Fund expects to treat such liquidity fees paid to the Portfolio as reducing proceeds paid to shareholders in redemption of Fund shares, and not constituting income to the Portfolio. There may be circumstances under which the Fund may impose its own liquidity fees and/or suspend redemptions based on the level of the Funds own weekly liquid assets, in which case the Fund will also provide notice to shareholders.
If the Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of its assets on a business day, the Portfolio may cease honoring redemptions and liquidate in the discretion of the Portfolios Board. If the Fund is notified that its Portfolios weekly liquid assets fall below 10% of the Portfolios assets and the Portfolio has suspended redemptions and intends to liquidate, the Fund may also do so in the discretion of the Funds Board. There may be circumstances under which the Fund may cease honoring redemptions and liquidate in the discretion of its Board based on the level of the Funds own weekly liquid assets. If the Fund ceases honoring redemptions and determines to liquidate, the Fund expects that it would notify shareholders on the Funds website. Distributions to shareholders of liquidation proceeds may occur in one or more disbursements.
The right of any investor to receive payment with respect to any redemption may be suspended or the payment of the redemption proceeds postponed during any period in which the NYSE is closed (other than weekends or holidays) or trading on the NYSE is restricted or, to the extent otherwise permitted by the 1940 Act, if an emergency exists as a result of which disposal by the Fund of securities owned by it is not reasonably practicable or it is not reasonably practicable for the Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets. In addition, the SEC may by order permit suspension of redemptions for the protection of shareholders of the Fund.
When selling shares in an account that you do not intend to close, remember to leave at least $2,000 worth of shares in the account. Otherwise, Neuberger Berman has the right to request that you bring the balance back up to the minimum level. If you have not done so within 60 days, Neuberger Berman may close your account and redeem the proceeds. Neuberger Berman is responsible for
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transmitting your redemption request in good form and in a timely manner to the applicable Fund(s). The Fund will not be responsible for delays by Neuberger Berman in transmitting your redemption request to the Fund.
How to Redeem Shares
By Mail: |
Send a signed letter to: Neuberger Berman Funds c/o State Street Bank & Trust Co. 30 Dan Road Canton, Massachusetts 02021-2809
The letter should include information necessary to process your request as described below. The Fund may require a medallion guarantee in certain circumstances. See Medallion Guarantees below. |
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By Telephone: | Please call Neuberger Berman at (800) 877-9700 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. ET. | |
You must provide the following information: Ø name(s) of account owners; Ø account number(s); Ø the name of the Fund; Ø the dollar amount, percentage or number of shares being redeemed; and Ø any other instructions. To place an order using FUNDfone», call (800) 335-9366. |
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By Internet: | You may instruct Neuberger Berman to redeem shares by placing an order online at www.nb.com. |
On any day that the Fund calculates its NAVs earlier than normal, the Fund reserves the right to adjust the times noted above for purchasing and redeeming shares.
Medallion Guarantees. You may need a Medallion signature guarantee when you sell shares of the Fund. A Medallion signature guarantee is a guarantee that your signature is authentic. Most banks, brokers and other financial institutions can provide you with one. Some may charge a fee; others may not, particularly if you are a customer of theirs.
Medallion signature guarantees are required for a variety of transactions including requests for changes to your account or to the instructions for distribution of proceeds. Neuberger Berman reserves the right to require a Medallion signature guarantee on any transaction at our discretion.
A notarized signature from a notary public is not a Medallion signature guarantee.
Until October 11, 2016, all redemption requests regarding shares of the Fund placed after 4:00 p.m. ET may only be placed by telephone or pre-established other means such as a transmission and the Fund reserves the right to postpone payments for redemption requests received after 4:00 p.m. ET until the next business day.
Effective October 12, 2016, same day settlement of redemption proceeds will only be available for redemption requests accepted prior to the Funds last Valuation Time of the day (generally, 3:00 p.m. ET unless the Fund closes earlier).
The Fund reserves the right to waive medallion guarantee requirements, require a medallion guarantee under other circumstances or reject or delay redemption if the medallion guarantee is not in good form. Medallion guarantees may be provided by an eligible financial institution such as a commercial bank, a FINRA member firm such as a stock broker, a savings association or a national securities exchange. A notary public cannot provide a medallion guarantee. The Fund reserves the right to reject a medallion guarantee if it is not provided by a STAMP Medallion guarantor.
Exchanging Shares . You can move an investment from the Fund to a comparable class of another Neuberger Berman Fund in the Fund family through an exchange of shares, or by electing to use your cash distributions from the Fund to purchase shares of the other Fund. There are three things to remember when making an exchange:
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both accounts must have the same registration; |
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you will need to observe the minimum account balance requirements for the fund accounts involved; and |
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because an exchange is treated as a sale for tax purposes, consider any tax consequences before placing your order. |
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Privileges and Services. You have access to a range of Neuberger Berman services to make investing easier:
Systematic Withdrawals. This plan lets you arrange withdrawals of at least $100 from the Fund on a periodic schedule. You can also set up payments to distribute the full value of an account over a given time.
Electronic Bank Transfers. When you sell Fund shares, you can have the money sent to your bank account electronically rather than mailed to you as a check. Please note that your bank must be a member of the Automated Clearing House, or ACH, system.
Internet Access. At www.nb.com, you can initiate transactions, check your account and access a wealth of information.
FUNDfone ® . Get up-to-date performance and account information through our 24-hour automated service by calling (800) 335-9366. If you already have a Neuberger Berman fund account, you can place orders to buy, sell or exchange fund shares.
Checkwriting. If you would like to write checks against your Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund account please call (800) 877-9700. Withdrawals must be for at least $250.
About Mail Transactions. If you choose to purchase, exchange or redeem shares by sending instructions by regular mail, they will not be deemed received in good order until they are released by the post office and redelivered to the Transfer Agents physical location at 30 Dan Road in Canton, MA 02021. There will be a time lag, which may be one or more days, between regular mail receipt at the Boston post office box and redelivery to such physical location in Canton, and the Funds NAV may change over those days. You might consider using express rather than regular mail if you believe the time of receipt of your transaction request to be sensitive.
Other Policies. Under certain circumstances, Neuberger Berman reserves the right to:
|
reject any exchange or purchase order; |
|
suspend or reject any future purchase order from any investor who does not provide payment to settle a purchase order; |
|
change, suspend or revoke the exchange privilege; and |
|
suspend the telephone order privilege. |
Excessive Trading . Because the Fund is a money market fund, the Funds Board of Trustees has not adopted policies and procedures with respect to frequent purchases and redemptions of Fund shares by Fund shareholders. Nonetheless, the Fund may take any reasonable action that they deem necessary or appropriate to prevent excessive trading in Fund shares without providing prior notification to the account holder. Such action may include rejecting any purchase, in whole or part, including, without limitation, by a person whose trading activity in Fund shares may be deemed harmful to the Fund. While the Fund attempts to discourage such excessive trading, there can be no guarantee that they will be able to identify investors who are engaging in excessive trading or limit their trading practices. Additionally, frequent trades of small amounts may not be detected. The Fund recognizes that they may not always be able to detect or prevent excessive trading or other activity that may disadvantage the Fund or its shareholders.
DISTRIBUTION ARRANGEMENTS AND RULE 12B-1 FEES
The Fund have adopted a distribution plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act under which the Fund may compensate the Distributor (or others) for services in connection with the distribution of the Funds Investment Shares and for services provided to Fund shareholders (the Plan). The Plan calls for payments at an annual rate (based on average daily net assets) of 0.10% of the Funds net assets attributable to its Investment Shares. Because these fees are paid out of the assets of the Fund attributable to its Investment Shares on an ongoing basis, they will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more over time than paying other types of sales charges. Long-term shareholders of the Fund may pay more in Rule 12b-1 fees than the economic equivalent of the maximum front-end sales charge permitted by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (FINRA).
The Funds Investment Class shares generally are sold to clients of financial intermediaries (Service Organizations), including affiliates of the Adviser, which have entered into shareholder servicing agreements with the Fund or Distributor. Service Organizations agree to perform certain shareholder servicing, administrative and accounting services for their clients and customers who are beneficial owners of shares of the Fund. The Fund will make payments to Service Organizations for services provided at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Funds net assets attributable to its Investment Class shares. The Fund expects to reimburse the Distributor for any such payments made by the Distributor to Service Organizations.
21
Because the Fund pays distribution and other fees for the sale of their shares and for services provided to shareholders out of the Funds assets on an ongoing basis, over time those fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales loads.
The Fund may pay distribution fees and other amounts described in this Prospectus at a time when shares of that Fund are unavailable for purchase.
OTHER PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
Financial Intermediaries are firms that sell shares of mutual funds, including the Fund, for compensation and/or provide certain administrative and account maintenance services to mutual fund investors. Financial Intermediaries may include, among others, brokers, financial planners or advisers, banks, and insurance companies.
In some cases, a Financial Intermediary may hold its clients Fund Shares in nominee or street name. Shareholder services provided by a Financial Intermediary may (though they will not necessarily) include, among other things: processing and mailing trade confirmations, periodic statements, prospectuses, annual reports, semiannual reports, shareholder notices, and other SEC-required communications; capturing and processing tax data; issuing and mailing dividend checks to shareholders who have selected cash distributions; preparing record date shareholder lists for proxy solicitations; collecting and posting distributions to shareholder accounts; and establishing and maintaining systematic withdrawals and automated investment plans and shareholder account registrations.
The compensation paid by the Distributor or its affiliates to a Financial Intermediary is typically paid continually over time, during the period when the Financial Intermediarys clients hold investments in the Fund. The amount of continuing compensation paid by the Distributor or its affiliates to different Financial Intermediaries for distribution and/or shareholder services varies. The compensation is typically a percentage of the value of the Financial Intermediarys clients investments in the Fund or a per account fee. The variation in compensation may, but will not necessarily, reflect enhanced or additional services provided by the Financial Intermediary.
SSGM and its affiliates (including SSGA FM), at their own expense and out of their own assets, may also provide other compensation to Financial Intermediaries in connection with sales of the Funds shares or the servicing of shareholders or shareholder accounts. Such compensation may include, but is not limited to, financial assistance to Financial Intermediaries in connection with conferences, sales, or training programs for their employees; seminars for the public; advertising or sales campaigns; or other Financial Intermediary-sponsored special events. In some instances, this compensation may be made available only to certain Financial Intermediaries whose representatives have sold or are expected to sell significant amounts of shares. Dealers may not use sales of the Funds shares to qualify for this compensation to the extent prohibited by the laws or rules of any state or any self-regulatory agency, such as the FINRA.
If payments to Financial Intermediaries by the distributor or adviser for a particular mutual fund complex exceed payments by other mutual fund complexes, your financial adviser and the Financial Intermediary employing him or her may have an incentive to recommend that fund complex over others. Please speak with your financial adviser to learn more about the total amounts paid to your financial adviser and his or her firm by the Distributor and its affiliates and by sponsors of other mutual funds he or she may recommend to you. You should also consult disclosures made by your Financial Intermediary at the time of purchase.
DIVIDENDS, DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAX CONSIDERATIONS
The Fund intends to declare dividends on shares from net investment income daily and pay them as of the last business day of each month. Distributions from capital gains, if any, will be made annually in December. Income dividends and capital gains distributions will be paid in additional shares on the reinvestment date unless you have elected to receive them in cash. No interest will accrue on the amounts represented by uncashed distribution checks. If you have elected to receive distributions by check, and the postal or other delivery service is unable to deliver the checks because of an incorrect mailing address, or if a distribution check remains uncashed for six months, the uncashed distribution and all future distribution elections will be reinvested at the then-current NAV of the Fund.
The following discussion is a summary of some important U.S. federal tax considerations generally applicable to an investment in the Fund. Your investment in the Fund may have other tax implications. Please consult your tax advisor about federal, state, local, foreign or other tax laws applicable to you. Investors, including non-U.S. investors, may wish to consult the SAI tax section for additional disclosure.
22
The Fund invests substantially all of its investible assets in a Portfolio that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The nature and character of the Funds income, gains, losses and deductions generally will be determined at the Portfolio level, and the Fund will be allocated its share of the Portfolios income, gains, losses and deductions. As applicable, references in this discussion to income, gains and losses of the Fund will be to income, gains and losses recognized and deductions accruing at the Portfolio level and allocated to or otherwise taken into account by the Fund, and references to assets of the Fund will be to the Funds allocable share of the assets of the Portfolio.
The Fund has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company and intends each year to qualify and to be eligible to be treated as such. A regulated investment company generally is not subject to tax at the corporate level on income and gains that are timely distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify and be eligible for treatment as a regulated investment company, the Fund must, among other things, satisfy diversification, 90% gross income and distribution requirements. The Funds failure to qualify as a regulated investment company would result in corporate level taxation, and consequently, a reduction in income available for distribution to shareholders.
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, distributions of investment income are generally taxable to you as ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains generally are determined by how long the Portfolio owned the investments that generated them, rather than how long you have owned your Fund Shares. Any net short-term gains the Fund distributes will be taxable to you as ordinary income. The Fund generally does not expect to make distributions that are eligible for taxation as long-term capital gains. Distributions are taxable whether you receive them in cash or reinvest them in additional shares.
When the NAV of Fund Shares varies from $1.00 per share, shareholders will realize a gain or loss upon the sale, exchange or redemption of such Fund Shares. Any gains resulting from the redemption of Fund Shares will generally be taxable to you as either short-term or long-term capital gain, depending upon how long you have held such Fund Shares.
The IRS has issued final regulations and published guidance that permit a simplified method of accounting for gains and losses realized upon the disposition of money market fund shares. Shareholders should see the SAI for further information.
A 3.8% Medicare contribution tax is imposed on the net investment income of individuals, estates and trusts to the extent their income exceeds certain threshold amounts. Net investment income generally includes for this purpose dividends paid by the Fund, including any capital gain dividends, and net gains recognized on the redemption of shares of the Fund.
If you are not a U.S. person, dividends paid by the Fund that the Fund properly reports as capital gain dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, or interest-related dividends, each as further defined in the SAI, are not subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax, provided that certain other requirements are met. The Fund is permitted, but is not required, to report any part of its dividends as are eligible for such treatment. The Funds dividends other than those the Fund so reports as capital gain dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, or interest-related dividends generally will be subject to a U.S. withholding tax at the 30% rate (or lower applicable treaty rate). See the Funds SAI for further information.
23
The financial highlight tables are intended to help you understand the Funds Investment Class Shares financial performance for the past five fiscal years. Certain information reflects the performance results for a single Fund Share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, the Trusts independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the Funds financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the annual report to shareholders, which is available upon request. The financial information included in these tables should be read in conjunction with the financial statements incorporated by reference in the SAI.
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State Street Institutional Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Financial Highlights
Selected data for a share of beneficial interest outstanding throughout each year is presented below (a) :
Period Ended December 31, |
Net Asset
Value Beginning of Period |
Net
Investment Income/(Loss) |
Gain
(Loss) on Investments |
Total from
Investment Operations |
Distributions
from Net Investment Income |
Distributions
from Capital Gains |
Total
Distributions |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Investment Class |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | | $ | | $ | | |||||||||||
2014 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | | $ | | $ | | |||||||||||
2013 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | ||||||||
2012 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | $ | (0.0000 | ) (d) | ||||||||
2011 |
$ | 1.0000 | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | 0.0000 | (d) | $ | | $ | | $ | |
(a) |
The per share amounts and percentages include the Funds proportionate share of income and expenses of the corresponding Portfolio. |
(b) |
Total return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares at net asset value on the first day and a sale at net asset value on the last day of each period reported. Distributions are assumed, for the purpose of this calculation, to be reinvested at net asset value per share on the respective payment dates. Total return for periods of less than one year are not annualized. Results represent past performance and are not indicative of future results. |
(c) |
This expense waiver is reflected in both the net operating expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Without these waivers, net investment income would have been lower. |
(d) |
Amount is less than $0.00005 per share. |
(e) |
Amount is less than 0.005%. |
26
State Street Institutional Investment Trust
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund
Financial Highlights
Net Asset
Value End of Period |
Ratios to Average Net Assets/Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Period Ended December 31, |
Total
Return (b) |
Gross
Expenses |
Net
Expenses |
Net
Investment Income |
Expense
Waiver (c) |
Net Assets
End of Year (000s omitted) |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Investment Class |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
2015 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.47 | % | 0.24 | % | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.23 | % | $ | 485,292 | ||||||||||||||
2014 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.47 | % | 0.19 | % | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.28 | % | $ | 726,910 | ||||||||||||||
2013 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.47 | % | 0.22 | % | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.25 | % | $ | 1,013,152 | ||||||||||||||
2012 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.47 | % | 0.32 | % | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.15 | % | $ | 961,168 | ||||||||||||||
2011 |
$ | 1.0000 | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.46 | % | 0.27 | % | 0.00 | % (e) | 0.19 | % | $ | 992,736 |
27
For more information about the Fund:
The Funds SAI includes additional information about the Fund and is incorporated by reference into this document. Additional information about the Funds investments is available, or will be available, in the Funds most recent annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. The Funds SAI is available, without charge, upon request. The Funds annual and semi-annual reports are available, or will be available, without charge, upon request. Shareholders in the Fund may make inquiries to the Fund to receive such information by calling (877) 521-4083 or the customer service center at the telephone number shown in the accompanying contract prospectus, if applicable.
Information about the Fund (including the SAI) can be reviewed and copied at the SECs Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-202-551-8090. Reports and other information about the Fund are available free of charge on the EDGAR Database on the SECs Internet site at http://www.sec.gov. Copies of this information also may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following E-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov, or by writing the SECs Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520.
SSGA Funds Management, Inc .
STATE STREET FINANCIAL CENTER
ONE LINCOLN STREET
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02111
The State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Investment Company Act File Number is 811-09819. |
STATE STREET INSTITUTIONAL INVESTMENT TRUST
(the Trust)
P.O. Box 5049
Boston, Massachusetts 02206
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
August 26, 2016
STATE STREET INSTITUTIONAL LIQUID RESERVES FUND
Premier Class (SSIXX)
Investment Class (SSVXX)
Service Class (LRSXX)
M Class Shares (SSLXX)
Institutional Class (SSHXX)
Investor Class (SSZXX)
Administration Class (SSYXX)
Trust Class (TILXX)
STATE STREET INSTITUTIONAL TREASURY PLUS MONEY MARKET FUND
Trust Class (TPLXX)
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) relates only to the prospectuses of State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund and the Trust Class prospectus of State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund dated August 26, 2016, as amended from time to time thereafter. Although this SAI contains information related to other series and shares of the Trust, those other series and shares are offered pursuant to separate prospectuses and SAIs; this SAI may not be used in connection with the offering of any series and shares of the Trust other than shares of the State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund and Trust Class shares of State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund.
The SAI is not a prospectus and should be read in conjunction with the Prospectuses. A copy of each Prospectus can be obtained free of charge by calling (877) 521-4083 or by written request to the Trust at the address listed above.
The Trusts audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, including the independent registered public accounting firm reports thereon, are included in the Trusts annual report and are incorporated into this SAI by reference. Copies of the Trusts annual reports and semiannual reports are available, without charge, upon request, by calling (877) 521-4083 or by written request to the Trust at the address above.
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3 | ||||
15 | ||||
24 | ||||
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38 | ||||
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50 | ||||
50 | ||||
A-1 | ||||
B-1 | ||||
Appendix C - Advisers Proxy Voting Procedures and Guidelines |
C-1 |
The Trust was organized as a business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts on February 16, 2000.
The Trust is an open-end management investment company. The Trust includes the following diversified series:
| State Street Equity 500 Index Fund; |
| State Street Aggregate Bond Index Fund; |
| State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund (the ILR Fund); |
| State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund (the U.S. Government Fund); |
| State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund (the Treasury Fund); |
| State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund (the Treasury Plus Fund); |
| State Street Strategic Real Return Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement 2015 Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement 2020 Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement 2025 Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement 2030 Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement 2035 Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement 2040 Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement 2045 Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement 2050 Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement 2055 Fund; |
| State Street Target Retirement 2060 Fund; |
| State Street Small Cap Emerging Markets Equity Fund; |
| State Street Clarion Global Real Estate Income Fund; |
| State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Fund; |
| State Street Equity 500 Index II Portfolio; |
| State Street Strategic Real Return Portfolio; |
| State Street Aggregate Bond Index Portfolio; |
| State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Portfolio; |
| State Street Emerging Markets Equity Index Fund; |
| State Street Hedged International Developed Equity Index Fund; |
| State Street International Developed Equity Index Fund; |
| State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Fund; |
| State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Portfolio; |
| State Street 60 Day Money Market Fund (the 60 Day Fund); |
| State Street 60 Day Money Market Portfolio (the 60 Day Portfolio); |
| State Street Cash Reserves Fund (the Cash Reserves Fund); |
1
| State Street Cash Reserves Portfolio (the Cash Reserves Portfolio); |
| State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Fund (the Liquid Assets Fund); |
| State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Portfolio (the Liquid Assets Portfolio); |
| State Street Current Yield Fund (the Current Yield Fund); |
| State Street Current Yield Portfolio (the Current Yield Portfolio); |
| State Street Conservative Income Fund (Conservative Income Fund); |
| State Street Conservative Income Portfolio (Conservative Income Portfolio); |
| State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Fund (the Ultra Short Bond Fund); |
| State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Portfolio (the Ultra Short Bond Portfolio); |
| State Street Disciplined Global Equity Fund; |
| State Street Disciplined U.S. Equity Fund; and |
| State Street Disciplined International Equity Fund. |
The Trust includes the following non-diversified series:
| State Street Clarion Global Infrastructure & MLP Fund |
The ILR Fund, 60 Day Fund, Treasury Fund, Treasury Plus Fund, Cash Reserves Fund, Liquid Assets Fund and U.S. Government Fund are referred to in this SAI as the Money Funds, Money Market Funds, or the Funds. The Treasury Fund and Treasury Plus Fund are also sometimes separately referred to in this SAI as the Treasury Funds. Each Fund may be referred to in context as the Fund as appropriate.
Each Fund listed below as a feeder fund (each a Feeder Fund and collectively the Feeder Funds) seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing substantially all of its investable assets in a corresponding master portfolio in the Trust or, as indicated below, the State Street Master Funds (each a Portfolio and collectively the Portfolios) that has substantially similar investment strategies to those of the Feeder Fund. The table below shows the respective Portfolio in which each Feeder Fund invests. All Portfolios together are referred to in this SAI as the Portfolios and each Portfolio may be referred to in context as the Portfolio as appropriate.
Feeder Fund |
Master Portfolio |
|
ILR Fund | State Street Money Market Portfolio (Money Market Portfolio)* | |
U.S. Government Fund | State Street U.S. Government Money Market Portfolio (U.S. Government Portfolio)* | |
Treasury Fund | State Street Treasury Money Market Portfolio (Treasury Portfolio)* | |
Treasury Plus Fund 60 Day Fund |
State Street Treasury Plus Money Market Portfolio (Treasury Plus Portfolio)* 60 Day Portfolio |
|
Cash Reserves Fund | Cash Reserves Portfolio | |
Liquid Assets Fund | Liquid Assets Portfolio | |
Current Yield Fund | Current Yield Portfolio | |
Conservative Income Fund | Conservative Income Portfolio | |
Ultra Short Bond Fund | Ultra Short Bond Portfolio |
* | This Portfolio is in the State Street Master Funds |
The Money Market Portfolio, 60 Day Portfolio, Cash Reserves Portfolio, Liquid Assets Portfolio, Treasury Portfolio, Treasury Plus Portfolio and U.S. Government Portfolio are referred to in this SAI as the Money Portfolios, or Money Market Portfolios. The Treasury Portfolio and Treasury Plus Portfolio are also sometimes separately referred to in this SAI as the Treasury Portfolios.
Trust Class shares of the ILR Fund are issued only to shareholders of SSGA Prime Money Market Fund and SSGA Money Market Fund, each series of SSGA Funds. Trust Class shares of the Treasury Plus Fund are issued only to shareholders of SSGA U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund, a series of SSGA Funds.
2
DESCRIPTION OF THE FUNDS AND THEIR INVESTMENTS AND RISKS
Each Funds Prospectus contains information about the investment objective and policies of that Fund. This SAI should only be read in conjunction with the Prospectus of the Fund or Funds in which you intend to invest.
In addition to the principal investment strategies and the principal risks of the Funds and Portfolios described in each Funds Prospectus, a Fund or Portfolio may employ other investment practices and may be subject to additional risks, which are described below. In reviewing these practices of the Feeder Funds, you should assume that the practices of the corresponding Portfolio are the same in all material respects.
ADDITIONAL INVESTMENTS AND RISKS
To the extent consistent with its investment objective and restrictions, each Fund or Portfolio may invest in the following instruments and use the following techniques, and is subject to the following additional risks.
Auction Rate Securities.
Auction rate municipal securities permit the holder to sell the securities in an auction at par value at specified intervals. The dividend or interest is typically reset by Dutch auction in which bids are made by broker-dealers and other institutions for a certain amount of securities at a specified minimum yield. The rate set by the auction is the lowest interest or dividend rate that covers all securities offered for sale. While this process is designed to permit auction rate securities to be traded at par value, there is the risk that an auction will fail due to insufficient demand for the securities. A Portfolio will take the time remaining until the next scheduled auction date into account for purposes of determining the securities duration.
Cash Reserves
The Funds may hold portions of its assets in short-term debt instruments with remaining maturities of 397 days or less pending investment or to meet anticipated redemptions and day-to-day operating expenses. Short-term debt instruments consist of: (i) short-term obligations of the U.S. Government, its agencies, instrumentalities, authorities or political subdivisions; (ii) other short-term debt securities rated at the time of purchase Aa or higher by Moodys Investors Service, Inc. (Moodys) or AA or higher by Standard & Poors Rating Group (S&P) or, if unrated, of comparable quality in the opinion of SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (the Adviser or SSGA FM); (iii) commercial paper; (iv) bank obligations, including negotiable certificates of deposit, time deposits and bankers acceptances; and (v) repurchase agreements.
Cleared Derivatives Transactions
Under recently adopted rules and regulations, transactions in some types of swaps are required to be centrally cleared. In a cleared derivatives transaction, a Portfolios counterparty to the transaction is a central derivatives clearing organization, or clearing house, rather than a bank or broker. Because the Portfolios are not members of a clearing house, and only members of a clearing house can participate directly in the clearing house, the Portfolios hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members. In cleared derivatives transactions, a Portfolio will make payments (including margin payments) to and receive payments from a clearing house through its accounts at clearing members. Clearing members guarantee performance of their clients obligations to the clearing house. Centrally cleared derivative arrangements may be less favorable to a Portfolio than bilateral (non-cleared) arrangements. For example, a Portfolio may be required to provide greater amounts of margin for cleared derivatives transactions than for bilateral derivatives transactions. Also, in contrast to bilateral derivatives transactions, in some cases following a period of notice to a Portfolio, a clearing member generally can require termination of existing cleared derivatives transactions at any time or an increase in margin requirements above the margin that the clearing member required at the beginning of a transaction. Clearing houses also have broad rights to increase margin requirements for existing transactions or to terminate transactions at any time. Each Portfolio is subject to risk if it enters into a derivatives transaction that is required to be cleared (or which the Adviser expects to be cleared), and no clearing member is willing or able to clear the transaction on the Portfolios behalf. In that case, the transaction might have to be terminated, and the Portfolio could lose some or all of the benefit of the transaction, including loss of an increase in the value of the transaction and loss of hedging protection. In addition, the documentation governing the relationship between the Portfolios and clearing members is drafted by the clearing members and generally is less favorable to the Portfolios than typical bilateral derivatives documentation.
These clearing rules and other new rules and regulations could, among other things, restrict a Portfolios ability to engage in, or increase the cost to the Portfolio of, derivatives transactions, for example, by making some types of derivatives no longer available to the Portfolio, increasing margin or capital requirements, or otherwise limiting liquidity or increasing transaction costs. These regulations are new and evolving, so their potential impact on the Portfolios and the financial system are not yet known.
3
Custodial Risk
There are risks involved in dealing with the custodians or brokers who hold a Portfolios investments or settle a Portfolios trades. It is possible that, in the event of the insolvency or bankruptcy of a custodian or broker, a Portfolio would be delayed or prevented from recovering its assets from the custodian or broker, or its estate, and may have only a general unsecured claim against the custodian or broker for those assets. In recent insolvencies of brokers or other financial institutions, the ability of certain customers to recover their assets from the insolvents estate has been delayed, limited, or prevented, often unpredictably, and there is no assurance that any assets held by a Portfolio with a custodian or broker will be readily recoverable by the Portfolio. In addition, there may be limited recourse against non-U.S. sub-custodians in those situations in which a Portfolio invests in markets where custodial and/or settlement systems and regulations are not fully developed, including emerging markets, and the assets of the Portfolio have been entrusted to such sub-custodians. SSGA FM or an affiliate may serve as the custodian of the Portfolios.
Eurodollar Certificates of Deposit (ECDs), Eurodollar Time Deposits (ETDs) and Yankee Certificates of Deposit (YCDs)
The Portfolios, except for the Treasury Portfolios, may invest in ECDs, ETDs and YCDs. ECDs and ETDs are U.S. dollar denominated certificates of deposit issued by foreign branches of domestic banks and foreign banks. YCDs are U.S. dollar denominated certificates of deposit issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks.
Different risks than those associated with the obligations of domestic banks may exist for ECDs, ETDs and YCDs because the banks issuing these instruments, or their domestic or foreign branches, are not necessarily subject to the same regulatory requirements that apply to domestic banks, such as loan limitations, examinations, and reserve, accounting, auditing, recordkeeping and public reporting requirements. Obligations of foreign issuers also involve risks such as future unfavorable political and economic developments, withholding tax, seizures of foreign deposits, currency controls, interest limitations, and other governmental restrictions that might affect repayment of principal or payment of interest, or the ability to honor a credit commitment.
Forward Commitments
The Portfolios may enter into contracts to purchase securities for a fixed price at a future date beyond customary settlement time (forward commitments), consistent with the Portfolios ability to manage its investment portfolio, meet redemption requests, and for each applicable Portfolio, maintain a stable NAV. Forward commitments may be considered securities in themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines prior to the settlement date, which risk is in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Portfolios other assets. Where such purchases are made through dealers, the Portfolio relies on the dealer to consummate the sale. The dealers failure to do so may result in the loss to the Portfolio of an advantageous yield or price.
Although a Portfolio will generally enter into forward commitments with the intention of acquiring securities for its portfolio or for delivery pursuant to options contracts it has entered into, a Portfolio may dispose of a commitment prior to settlement if the Adviser deems it appropriate to do so. A Portfolio may realize short-term profits or losses upon the sale of forward commitments. When effecting such transactions, cash or other liquid assets (such as liquid high quality debt obligations) held by the Portfolio of a dollar amount sufficient to make payment for the portfolio securities to be purchased will be segregated on the Portfolios records at the trade date and maintained until the transaction is settled. Such segregated assets will be marked to market on a daily basis, and if the market value of such assets declines, additional cash or assets will be segregated so that the market value of the segregated assets will equal the amount of such the Portfolios obligations. Forward commitments involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines prior to the settlement date, or if the other party fails to complete the transaction.
Government Mortgage-Related Securities
GNMA is the principal federal government guarantor of mortgage-related securities. GNMA is a wholly owned U.S. Government corporation within the Department of Housing and Urban Development. It guarantees, with the full faith and credit of the United States, full and timely payment of all monthly principal and interest on its mortgage-related securities. GNMA pass-through securities are considered to have a relatively low risk of default in that (1) the underlying mortgage loan portfolio is comprised entirely of government-backed loans and (2) the timely payment of both principal and interest on the securities is guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government, regardless of whether they have been collected. GNMA pass-through securities are, however, subject to the same interest rate risk as comparable privately issued mortgage-related securities. Therefore, the effective maturity and market value of a Portfolios GNMA securities can be expected to fluctuate in response to changes in interest rate levels.
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Residential mortgage loans are also pooled by FHLMC, a corporate instrumentality of the U.S. Government. The mortgage loans in FHLMCs portfolio are not government backed; FHLMC, not the U.S. Government, guarantees the timely payment of interest and ultimate collection of principal on FHLMC securities. FHLMC also issues guaranteed mortgage certificates, on which it guarantees semiannual interest payments and a specified minimum annual payment of principal.
FNMA is a government-sponsored corporation owned entirely by private stockholders. It is subject to general regulation by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. FNMA purchases residential mortgages from a list of approved seller/servicers, which include savings and loan associations, savings banks, commercial banks, credit unions and mortgage bankers. Pass-through securities issued by FNMA are guaranteed as to timely payment of principal and interest only by FNMA, not the U.S. Government.
Illiquid Securities
Each Portfolio, except for the Treasury Portfolio, may invest in illiquid securities. The absence of a regular trading market for illiquid securities imposes additional risks on investments in these securities. Illiquid securities may be difficult to value and may often be disposed of only after considerable expense and delay.
Each Money Market Portfolio (and Money Market Fund) is managed in accordance with Rule 2a-7 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act). As a result, each Money Market Portfolio (and Money Market Fund) has adopted the following liquidity policies (except as noted):
1. | The Portfolio/Fund may not purchase an illiquid security if, immediately after purchase, the Portfolio/Fund would have invested more than 5% of its total assets in illiquid securities (securities that cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business within seven days at approximately the market value ascribed to them by the Portfolio/Fund); |
2. | The Portfolio/Fund may not purchase a security other than a security offering daily liquidity if, immediately after purchase, the Portfolio/Fund would have invested less than 10% of its total assets in securities offering daily liquidity (includes securities that mature or are subject to demand within one business day, cash, direct U.S. Government obligations or amounts receivable and due unconditionally within one business day on pending sales of portfolio securities.); and |
3. | The Portfolio/Fund may not purchase a security other than a security offering weekly liquidity if, immediately after purchase, the Portfolio/Fund would have invested less than 30% of its total assets in securities offering weekly liquidity (includes securities that mature or are subject to demand within five business days, cash, direct U.S. Government obligations, Government agency discount notes with remaining maturities of 60 days or less or amounts receivable and due unconditionally within five business days on pending sales of portfolio securities.). |
Each of Current Yield Portfolio, Conservative Income Portfolio and Ultra Short Bond Portfolio (and each of their corresponding Funds) will invest no more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities or securities that are not readily marketable, including repurchase agreements and time deposits of more than seven days duration.
Industrial Development and Private Activity Bonds
Industrial development bonds are issued to finance a wide variety of capital projects including: electric, gas, water and sewer systems; ports and airport facilities; colleges and universities; and hospitals. The principal security for these bonds is generally the net revenues derived from a particular facility, group of facilities, or in some cases, the proceeds of a special excise tax or other specific revenue sources. Although the principal security behind these bonds may vary, many provide additional security in the form of a debt service reserve fund whose money may be used to make principal and interest payments on the issuers obligations. Some authorities provide further security in the form of a states ability without obligation to make up deficiencies in the debt service reserve fund.
Private activity bonds are considered municipal securities if the interest paid thereon is exempt from federal income tax and they are issued by or on behalf of public authorities to raise money to finance various privately operated facilities for business and manufacturing, housing, sports, and pollution control. These bonds are also used to finance public facilities such as airports, mass transit systems, ports and parking. The payment of the principal and interest on such bonds is dependent solely on the ability of the facilitys user to meet its financial obligations and the value of any real or personal property pledged as security for such payment. Interest income on these bonds may be an item of tax preference subject to federal alternative minimum tax for individuals and corporations.
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Insured Municipal Securities
Insured municipal securities are those for which scheduled payments of interest and principal are guaranteed by a private (non-governmental) insurance company. The insurance entitles a fund to receive only the face or par value of the securities held by the fund, but the ability to be paid is limited to the claims paying ability of the insurer. The insurance does not guarantee the market value of the municipal securities or the net asset value of a Portfolios shares. Insurers are selected based upon the diversification of their portfolios and the strength of the management team which contributes to the claims paying ability of the entity. However, the Adviser selects securities based upon the underlying credit, with bond insurance viewed as an enhancement only. The Advisers objective is to have an enhancement that provides additional liquidity to insulate against volatility in changing markets.
Interest Rate Environment Risk
In the wake of the financial crisis that began in 2007, the Federal Reserve System attempted to stabilize the U.S. economy and support the U.S. economic recovery by keeping the federal funds rate at or near zero percent. In addition, the Federal Reserve has purchased large quantities of securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities on the open market (the quantitative easing program). As a result, the United States is experiencing historically low interest rate levels. A low interest rate environment may have an adverse impact on a Portfolios ability to provide a positive yield to its shareholders and pay expenses out of Portfolio assets because of the low yields from a Portfolios portfolio investments. However, continued economic recovery and the cessation of the quantitative easing program increase the risk that interest rates will rise in the near future and that the Portfolios will face a heightened level of interest rate risk. Federal Reserve policy changes may expose fixed-income and related markets to heightened volatility and may reduce liquidity for certain Portfolio investments, which could cause the value of a Portfolios investments and a Portfolios share price to decline or create difficulties for the Portfolio in disposing of investments. A Portfolio that invests in derivatives tied to fixed-income markets may be more substantially exposed to these risks than a Portfolio that does not invest in derivatives. The Portfolio could also be forced to liquidate its investments at disadvantageous times or prices, thereby adversely affecting the Portfolio. To the extent a Portfolio experiences high redemptions because of these policy changes, the Portfolio may experience increased portfolio turnover, which will increase the costs that the Portfolio incurs and lower the Portfolios performance.
Investment-Grade Bonds
The Portfolios, except for the Treasury Portfolios and the U.S. Government Portfolio, may invest in corporate notes and bonds that are rated investment-grade by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) (and, in the case of the Money Market Portfolio, rated in one of the two short-term highest rating categories by at least two NRSROs or by one NRSRO if only one NRSRO has rated the security) or, if unrated, are of comparable quality to the rated securities described above, as determined by the Adviser, in accordance with procedures established by the Board of Trustees. Investment-grade securities include securities rated Baa or higher by Moodys or BBB- or higher by S&P (and securities of comparable quality); securities rated Baa or BBB may have speculative characteristics.
Mortgage-Related Securities
The Portfolios, except for the Treasury Portfolios, may invest in mortgage-related securities. Mortgage-related securities represent an interest in a pool of, or are secured by, mortgage loans. Mortgage-related securities may be issued or guaranteed by (i) US Government agencies or instrumentalities such as the Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA) (also known as Ginnie Mae), the Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA) (also known as Fannie Mae) and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC) (also known as Freddie Mac) or (ii) other issuers, including private companies.
Many mortgage-related securities provide regular payments which consist of interest and, in most cases, principal. In contrast, other forms of debt securities normally provide for periodic payment of interest in fixed amounts with principal payments at maturity or specified call dates. In effect, payments on many mortgage-related securities are a pass-through of the payments made by the individual borrowers on their mortgage loans, net of any fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of such securities.
Besides the scheduled repayment of principal, repayments of principal may result from the voluntary prepayment, refinancing or foreclosure of the underlying mortgage loans. If property owners make unscheduled prepayments of their mortgage loans, these prepayments will typically result in early payment of the applicable mortgage-related securities. The occurrence of mortgage prepayments is affected by a variety of factors including the level of interest rates, general economic conditions, the location and age of the mortgage, and other social and demographic conditions. During periods of falling interest rates, the rate of mortgage prepayments tends to increase, thereby tending to decrease the life of mortgage-related securities. During periods of rising interest rates, the rate of mortgage prepayments usually decreases, thereby tending to increase the life of mortgage-related securities.
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Because of the possibility of prepayments (and due to scheduled repayments of principal), mortgage-related securities are less effective than other types of securities as a means of locking in attractive long-term interest rates. Prepayments would have to be reinvested at lower rates. As a result, these securities may have less potential for capital appreciation during periods of declining interest rates than other securities of comparable maturities, although they may have a similar risk of decline in market value during periods of rising interest rates. Prepayments may also significantly shorten the effective maturities of these securities, especially during periods of declining interest rates. Conversely, during periods of rising interest rates, a reduction in prepayments may increase the effective maturities of these securities, subjecting them to a greater risk of decline in market value in response to rising interest rates than traditional debt securities, and, therefore, potentially increasing the volatility of the Portfolios.
Collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) may be issued by a U.S. Government agency or instrumentality or by a private issuer. CMOs are typically structured with classes or series that have different maturities and are generally retired in sequence. Each class of obligations receives periodic interest payments according to its terms. However, monthly principal payments and any prepayments from the collateral pool are generally paid first to the holders of the most senior class. Thereafter, payments of principal are generally allocated to the next most senior class of obligations until that class of obligations has been fully repaid. Any or all classes of obligations of a CMO may be paid off sooner than expected because of an increase in the payoff speed of the pool. Changes in
prepayment rates may have significant effects on the values and the volatility of the various classes and series of a CMO. Payment of interest or principal on some classes or series of a CMO may be subject to contingencies or some classes or series may bear some or all of the risk of default on the underlying mortgages. Stripped mortgage-related securities are usually structured with two classes that receive different portions of the interest and principal distributions on a pool of mortgage loans. The yield to maturity on an interest only or IO class of stripped mortgage-related securities is extremely sensitive not only to changes in prevailing interest rates but also to the rate of principal payments (including prepayments) on the underlying assets. A rapid rate of principal prepayments may have a measurable adverse effect on a Funds yield to maturity to the extent it invests in IOs. If the assets underlying the IO experience greater than anticipated prepayments of principal, the Fund may fail to recoup fully, or at all, its initial investment in these securities. Conversely, principal only securities or POs tend to increase in value if prepayments are greater than anticipated and decline if prepayments are slower than anticipated. The secondary market for stripped mortgage-related securities may be more volatile and less liquid than that for other mortgage-related securities, potentially limiting a Portfolios ability to buy or sell those securities at any particular time.
Municipal and Municipal-Related Securities
The Portfolios, except for the Money Market Portfolio, the Treasury Portfolios and the U.S. Government Portfolio, may invest in municipal and municipal-related securities. Municipal securities may bear fixed, floating or variable rates of interest or may be zero coupon securities. Municipal securities are generally of two types: general obligations and revenue obligations. General obligations are backed by the full faith and credit of the issuer. These securities include tax anticipation notes, bond anticipation notes, general obligation bonds and commercial paper. Revenue obligations are backed by the revenues generated from a specific project or facility and include industrial development bonds and private activity bonds. Tax anticipation notes are issued to finance working capital needs of municipalities and are generally issued in anticipation of future tax revenues. Bond anticipation notes are issued in expectation of the issuer obtaining longer-term financing.
Municipal obligations are affected by economic, business or political developments. These securities may be subject to provisions of litigation, bankruptcy and other laws affecting the rights and remedies of creditors, or may become subject to future laws extending the time for payment of principal and/or interest, or limiting the rights of municipalities to levy taxes. The Portfolio may be more adversely impacted by changes in tax rates and policies than other funds. Because interest income from municipal securities is normally not subject to regular federal income taxation, the attractiveness of municipal securities in relation to other investment alternatives is affected by changes in federal income tax rates applicable to, or the continuing federal income tax-exempt status of, such interest income. Any proposed or actual changes in such rates or exempt status, therefore, can significantly affect the demand for and supply, liquidity and marketability of municipal securities. This could in turn affect a Portfolios ability to acquire and dispose of municipal securities at desirable yield and price levels. Concentration of a Portfolios investments in these municipal obligations will subject the Portfolio, to a greater extent than if such investment was not so concentrated, to the risks of adverse economic, business or political developments affecting the particular state, industry or other area of concentration. Issuers, including governmental issuers, of municipal securities may be unable to pay their obligations as they become due. Recent declines in tax revenues, and increases in liabilities, such as pension and health care liabilities, may increase the actual or perceived risk of default on such securities.
Municipal Leases
The Portfolios, except for the Money Market Portfolio, the Treasury Portfolios and the U.S. Government Portfolio, may purchase participation interests in municipal obligations, including municipal lease/purchase agreements. Municipal leases are an undivided
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interest in a portion of an obligation in the form of a lease or installment purchase issued by a state or local government to acquire equipment or facilities. These instruments may have fixed, floating or variable rates of interest, with remaining maturities of 13 months or less. Certain participation interests may permit a Portfolio to demand payment on not more than seven days notice, for all or any part of the funds interest, plus accrued interest.
Municipal leases frequently have special risks not normally associated with general obligation or revenue bonds. Some leases or contracts include non-appropriation clauses, which provide that the governmental issuer has no obligation to make future payments under the lease or contract unless money is appropriated for such purpose by the appropriate legislative body on a yearly or other periodic basis. To reduce these risks, the Portfolios will only purchase municipal leases subject to a non-appropriation clause when the payment of principal and accrued interest is backed by a letter of credit or guarantee of a bank.
Whether a municipal lease agreement will be considered illiquid for the purpose of a Portfolios restriction on investments in illiquid securities will be determined in accordance with procedures established by the Board of Trustees.
Other Asset-Backed Securities
The Portfolios, except for the Treasury Portfolios and the U.S. Government Portfolio, may invest in asset-backed securities that are not mortgage-related. Asset-backed securities other than mortgage-related securities represent undivided fractional interests in pools of instruments, such as consumer loans, and are typically similar in structure to mortgage-related pass-through securities. Payments of
principal and interest are passed through to holders of the securities and are typically supported by some form of credit enhancement, such as a letter of credit, surety bond, limited guarantee by another entity, or by priority to certain of the borrowers other securities. The degree of credit-enhancement, if any, varies, applying only until exhausted and generally covering only a fraction of the securitys par value.
The value of such asset-backed securities is affected by changes in the markets perception of the asset backing the security, changes in the creditworthiness of the servicing agent for the instrument pool, the originator of the instruments, or the financial institution providing any credit enhancement and the expenditure of any portion of any credit enhancement. The risks of investing in asset-backed securities are ultimately dependent upon payment of the underlying instruments by the obligors, and a Fund would generally have no recourse against the obligee of the instruments in the event of default by an obligor. The underlying instruments are subject to prepayments which shorten the duration of asset-backed securities and may lower their return, in generally the same manner as described above for prepayments of pools of mortgage loans underlying mortgage-related securities.
Pre-Refunded Municipal Securities
The interest and principal payments on pre-refunded municipal securities are typically paid from the cash flow generated from an escrow fund consisting of U.S. Government securities. These payments have been pre-refunded using the escrow fund.
Purchase of Other Investment Company Shares
Each Portfolio, except for the Treasury Portfolios, may, to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act and exemptive rules and orders thereunder, invest in shares of other investment companies, which include funds managed by SSGA FM, which invest exclusively in money market instruments or in investment companies with investment policies and objectives which are substantially similar to the Portfolios. These investments may be made temporarily, for example, to invest uncommitted cash balances or, in limited circumstances, to assist in meeting shareholder redemptions.
Repurchase Agreements
Each Portfolio, except for the Treasury Portfolio, may enter into repurchase agreements with banks and other financial institutions, such as broker-dealers. Under a repurchase agreement, the Portfolio purchases securities from a financial institution that agrees to repurchase the securities at the Portfolios original purchase price plus interest within a specified time (normally one business day). The Portfolio will limit repurchase transactions to those member banks of the Federal Reserve System, broker-dealers and other financial institutions whose creditworthiness the Adviser considers satisfactory. Should the counterparty to a transaction fail financially, the Portfolio may encounter delay and incur costs before being able to sell the securities, or may be prevented from realizing on the securities. Further, the amount realized upon the sale of the securities may be less than that necessary to fully compensate the Portfolio.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements
The Portfolios, except for the Treasury Portfolios, may enter into reverse repurchase agreements under the circumstances described in Investment Restrictions. Under a reverse repurchase agreement, a Portfolio sells portfolio securities to a financial institution in
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return for cash in an amount equal to a percentage of the portfolio securities market value and agrees to repurchase the securities at a future date at a prescribed repurchase price equal to the amount of cash originally received plus interest on such amount. A Portfolio retains the right to receive interest and principal payments with respect to the securities while it is in the possession of the securities. Reverse repurchase agreements may create investment leverage and involve the risk that the market value of securities sold by a Portfolio may decline below the price at which it is obligated to repurchase the securities. Reverse repurchase agreements also involve a risk of default by the counterparty, which may adversely affect a Portfolios ability to reacquire the underlying securities.
Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper/Rule 144A Securities
Each Portfolio, except for the Treasury Portfolios, may also invest in commercial paper issued in reliance on the private placement exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (1933 Act) (Section 4(a)(2) paper) or in securities that that can be offered and sold only to qualified institutional buyers under Rule 144A of the 1933 Act (Rule 144A securities). The U.S. Government Portfolio may invest in Rule 144A securities, but not Section 4(a)(2) paper.
Section 4(a)(2) paper is restricted as to disposition under the federal securities laws and generally is sold to institutional investors that agree that they are purchasing the paper for investment and not with a view to public distribution. Any resale by the purchaser must be a transaction exempt from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. Section 4(a)(2) paper normally is resold to other institutional investors like the Portfolios through or with the assistance of the issuer or investment dealers that make a market in Section 4(a)(2) paper. Rule 144A securities generally must be sold only to other institutional investors.
Section 4(a)(2) paper and Rule 144A securities will not be considered illiquid for purposes of each Funds and Portfolios percentage limitations on illiquid securities when the Adviser (pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the Board of Trustees or the Board)) determines that a liquid trading market exists for the securities in question. There can be no assurance that a liquid trading market will exist at any time for any particular Section 4(a)(2) paper or Rule 144A securities.
Tax Exempt Commercial Paper
The Portfolios, except for the Money Market Portfolio, the Treasury Portfolios and the U.S. Government Portfolio, may invest in tax exempt commercial paper. Tax exempt commercial paper is a short-term obligation with a stated maturity of 365 days or less. It is typically issued to finance seasonal working capital needs or as short-term financing in anticipation of longer term financing. Each instrument may be backed only by the credit of the issuer or may be backed by some form of credit enhancement, typically in the form of a guarantee by a commercial bank. Commercial paper backed by guarantees of foreign banks may involve additional risk due to the difficulty of obtaining and enforcing judgments against such banks and the generally less restrictive regulations to which such banks are subject. The Portfolios will only invest in commercial paper rated at the time of purchase not less than Prime-1 by Moodys, A-1 by S&P or F-1 by Fitch Ratings. See Appendix A for more information on the ratings of debt instruments.
Tender Option Bonds
A tender option is a municipal obligation (generally held pursuant to a custodial arrangement) having a relatively long maturity and bearing interest at a fixed rate substantially higher than prevailing short-term tax exempt rates, that has been coupled with the agreement of a third party, such as a bank, broker-dealer or other financial institution, pursuant to which such institution grants the security holders the option, at periodic intervals, to tender their securities to the institution and receive the face value thereof. As consideration for providing the option, the financial institution receives periodic fees equal to the difference between the municipal obligations fixed coupon rate and the rate, as determined by a remarketing or similar agent at or near the commencement of such period, that would cause the securities, coupled with the tender option, to trade at par on the date of such determination. Thus, after payment of this fee, the security holder effectively holds a demand obligation that bears interest at the prevailing short-term tax exempt rate. Subject to applicable regulatory requirements, a Portfolio may buy tender option bonds if the agreement gives the Portfolio the right to tender the bond to its sponsor no less frequently than once every 397 days. The Adviser will consider on an ongoing basis the creditworthiness of the issuer of the underlying obligation, any custodian and the third party provider of the tender option. In certain instances and for certain tender option bonds, the option may be terminable in the event of a default in payment of principal or interest on the underlying municipal obligation and for other reasons.
Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities
The Portfolios, except for the Treasury Portfolios, may invest in Inflation-Protection Securities (IPSs), a type of inflation-indexed Treasury security. IPSs typically provide for semiannual payments of interest and a payment of principal at maturity. In general, each payment will be adjusted to take into account any inflation or deflation that occurs between the issue date of the security and the payment date based on the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U).
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Each semiannual payment of interest will be determined by multiplying a single fixed rate of interest by the inflation-adjusted principal amount of the security for the date of the interest payment. Thus, although the interest rate will be fixed, the amount of each interest payment will vary with changes in the principal of the security as adjusted for inflation and deflation.
IPSs also provide for an additional payment (a minimum guarantee payment) at maturity if the securitys inflation-adjusted principal amount for the maturity date is less than the securitys principal amount at issuance. The amount of the additional payment will equal the excess of the securitys principal amount at issuance over the securitys inflation-adjusted principal amount for the maturity date.
U.S. Government Securities
Each Portfolio may purchase U.S. Government securities. With respect to U.S. Government securities, the Treasury Portfolio will invest exclusively in direct obligations of the U.S. Treasury, such as U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds maturing within 397 days, and other mutual funds, subject to regulatory limitations, that invest exclusively in such obligations. The Treasury Plus Portfolio will invest only in direct obligations of the U.S. Treasury (U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds) and repurchase agreements collateralized by these obligations. The types of U.S. Government obligations in which each other Portfolio may at times invest include: (1) U.S. Treasury obligations and (2) obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. Government agencies and instrumentalities which are supported by any of the following: (a) the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury, (b) the right of the issuer to borrow an amount limited to a specific line of credit from the U.S. Treasury, (c) discretionary authority of the U.S. Government agency or instrumentality, or (d) the credit of the instrumentality (examples of agencies and instrumentalities are: Federal Land Banks, Federal Housing Administration, Federal Farm Credit Bank, Farmers Home Administration, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Central Bank for Cooperatives, Federal Intermediate Credit Banks, Federal Home Loan Banks, General Services Administration, Maritime Administration, Tennessee Development Bank, Asian-American Development Bank, International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae or FNMA). No assurance can be given that in the future the U.S. Government will provide financial support to U.S. Government securities it is not obligated to support.
The Portfolios may purchase U.S. Government obligations on a forward commitment basis.
Variable Amount Master Demand Notes
The Portfolios, except for the Treasury Portfolios, may invest in variable amount master demand notes which are unsecured obligations that are redeemable upon demand and are typically unrated. These instruments are issued pursuant to written agreements between their issuers and holders. The agreements permit the holders to increase (subject to an agreed maximum) and the holders and issuers to decrease the principal amount of the notes, and specify that the rate of interest payable on the principal fluctuates according to an agreed formula. Generally, changes in interest rates will have a smaller effect on the market value of these securities than on the market value of comparable fixed income obligations. Thus, investing in these securities generally allows less opportunity for capital appreciation and depreciation than investing in comparable fixed income securities. There may be no active secondary market with respect to a particular variable rate instrument.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities
The Portfolios, except for the Treasury Portfolios, may invest in variable and floating rate securities. Variable rate securities are instruments issued or guaranteed by entities such as (1) U.S. Government, or an agency or instrumentality thereof, (2) corporations, (3) financial institutions, (4) insurance companies or (5) trusts that have a rate of interest subject to adjustment at regular intervals. A variable rate security provides for the automatic establishment of a new interest rate on set dates. Interest rates on these securities are ordinarily tied to, and are a percentage of, a widely recognized interest rate, such as the yield on 90-day U.S. Treasury bills or the prime rate of a specified bank. These rates may change as often as twice daily. Generally, changes in interest rates will have a smaller effect on the market value of variable and floating rate securities than on the market value of comparable fixed income obligations. Thus, investing in variable and floating rate securities generally allows less opportunity for capital appreciation and depreciation than investing in comparable fixed income securities. Variable rate obligations will be deemed to have a maturity equal to the period remaining until the next readjustment of the interest rate.
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When-Issued Securities
Each Portfolio may purchase securities on a when-issued basis. Delivery of and payment for these securities may take place as long as a month or more after the date of the purchase commitment. The value of these securities is subject to market fluctuation during this period, and no income accrues to the Portfolio until settlement takes place. When entering into a when-issued transaction, the Portfolio will rely on the other party to consummate the transaction; if the other party fails to do so, the Portfolio may be disadvantaged. The Portfolios will not invest more than 25% of their respective net assets in when-issued securities.
Securities purchased on a when-issued basis and held by a Portfolio are subject to changes in market value based upon actual or perceived changes in the level of interest rates. Generally, the value of such securities will fluctuate inversely to changes in interest rates i.e., they will appreciate in value when interest rates decline and decrease in value when interest rates rise. Therefore, if in order to achieve higher interest income a Portfolio remains substantially fully invested at the same time that it has purchased securities on a when-issued basis, there will be a greater possibility of fluctuation in the Portfolios NAV.
Zero Coupon Securities
The Portfolios, except for the Treasury Portfolios, may invest in zero coupon securities. Zero coupon securities are notes, bonds and debentures that: (1) do not pay current interest and are issued at a substantial discount from par value; (2) have been stripped of their unmatured interest coupons and receipts; or (3) pay no interest until a stated date one or more years into the future. These securities also include certificates representing interests in such stripped coupons and receipts. Generally, changes in interest rates will have a greater impact on the market value of a zero coupon security than on the market value of the comparable securities that pay interest
periodically during the life of the instrument. The Portfolios will not receive cash payments on a current basis from the issuer in respect of accrued original issue discount (OID), but investors will be required to accrue OID for U.S. federal income tax purposes. To generate sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions to maintain its qualification for treatment as a regulated investment company (RIC) under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code), a Fund may be required to redeem a portion of its interest in a Portfolio and a Portfolio that is taxed as a RIC may be required to sell investments, including at a time when it may not be advantageous to do so.
The Portfolios, except for the Treasury Portfolios, may invest no more than 25% of their respective total assets in stripped securities that have been stripped by their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment brokerage firm. A number of securities firms and banks have stripped the interest coupons and resold them in custodian receipt programs with different names such as Treasury Income Growth Receipts (TIGRS) and Certificates of Accrual on Treasuries (CATS). Privately-issued stripped securities such as TIGRS and CATS are not themselves guaranteed by the U.S. Government, but the future payment of principal or interest on U.S. Treasury obligations which they represent is so guaranteed.
Asset Segregation and Coverage
A Portfolio may be required to earmark or otherwise segregate liquid assets in respect of its obligations under derivatives transactions that involve contractual obligations to pay in the future, or a Portfolio may engage in other measures to cover its obligations with respect to such transactions. The amounts that are earmarked or otherwise segregated may be based on the notional value of the derivative or on the daily mark-to-market obligation under the derivatives contract and may be reduced by amounts on deposit with the applicable broker or counterparty to the derivatives transaction. In certain circumstances, a Portfolio may enter into an offsetting position rather than earmarking or segregating liquid assets. A Portfolio may modify its asset segregation and coverage policies from time to time. Although earmarking or segregating may in certain cases have the effect of limiting a Portfolios ability to engage in derivatives transactions, the extent of any such limitation will depend on a variety of factors, including the method by which the Fund determines the nature and amount of assets to be earmarked or segregated.
Fundamental Investment Restrictions
The Portfolios in which the Funds invest each have substantially the same investment restrictions as their corresponding Funds. In reviewing the description of a Funds investment restrictions below, you should assume that the investment restrictions of the corresponding Portfolio are the same in all material respects as those of the Fund.
The Trust has adopted the following restrictions applicable to the Funds, which may not be changed without the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of a Fund, which is defined in the 1940 Act to mean the affirmative vote of the lesser of (1) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund and (2) 67% or more of the shares present at a meeting if more than 50% of the outstanding shares are present at the meeting in person or by proxy.
1. | A Fund may borrow money and issue senior securities to the extent consistent with applicable law from time to time. |
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2. | A Fund may make loans, including to affiliated investment companies, to the extent consistent with applicable law from time to time. |
3. | A Fund may purchase or sell commodities to the extent consistent with applicable law from time to time. |
4. | A Fund may purchase, sell or hold real estate to the extent consistent with applicable law from time to time. |
5. | A Fund may underwrite securities to the extent consistent with applicable law from time to time. |
For the Money Market Funds:
6. | A Fund may not purchase any security if, as a result, 25% or more of the Funds total assets (taken at current value) would be invested in a particular industry (for purposes of this restriction, investment companies are not considered to constitute a particular industry or group of industries), except as is consistent with applicable law from time to time and as follows: each Fund is permitted to invest without limit in government securities (as defined in the 1940 Act), tax-exempt securities issued by a U.S. territory or possession, a state or local government, or a political subdivision of any of the foregoing and bankers acceptances, certificates of deposit and similar instruments issued by: (i) U.S. banks, (ii) U.S. branches of foreign banks (in circumstances in which the Adviser determines that the U.S. branches of foreign banks are subject to the same regulation as U.S. banks), (iii) foreign branches of U.S. banks (in circumstances in which the Adviser determines that the Fund will have recourse to the U.S. bank for the obligations of the foreign branch), and (iv) foreign branches of foreign banks (to the extent that the Adviser determines that the foreign branches of foreign banks are subject to the same or substantially similar regulations as U.S. banks). |
With respect to investment policy on concentration (#6 above), a Money Market Fund may concentrate in bankers acceptances, certificates of deposit and similar instruments when, in the opinion of the Adviser, the yield, marketability and availability of investments meeting the Funds quality standards in the banking industry justify any additional risks associated with the concentration of the Funds assets in such industry.
For Current Yield Fund, Conservative Income Fund and Ultra Short Bond Fund:
7. | A Fund may not purchase any security if, as a result, 25% or more of the Funds total assets (taken at current value) would be invested in a particular industry (for purposes of this restriction, investment companies are not considered to constitute a particular industry or group of industries), except as is consistent with applicable law from time to time and as follows: the Fund is permitted to invest without limit in government securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) and tax-exempt securities issued by a U.S. territory or possession, a state or local government, or a political subdivision of any of the foregoing. |
For purposes of the above investment limitation number 6, in the case of a tax-exempt bond issued by a non-governmental user, where the tax-exempt bond is backed only by the assets and revenues of the non-governmental user, then such non-governmental user would be deemed to be the sole issuer. For each Fund, all percentage limitations (except the limitation to borrowings) on investments will apply at the time of the making of an investment and shall not be considered violated unless an excess or deficiency occurs or exists immediately after and as a result of such investment. Except for the investment restrictions expressly identified as fundamental, or to the extent designated as such in the Prospectus with respect to a Fund, the other investment policies described in this SAI or in the Prospectus are not fundamental and may be changed by approval of the Trustees without shareholder approval.
12
Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings
Introduction
The policies set forth below to be followed by State Street Bank and Trust Company (State Street) and SSGA FM ( collectively, the Service Providers) for the disclosure of information about the portfolio holdings of the SSGA Funds, State Street Master Funds, and State Street Institutional Investment Trust (each, a Trust). These disclosure policies are intended to ensure compliance by the Service Providers and the Trust with applicable regulations of the federal securities laws, including the 1940 Act and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. The Board of Trustees of the Trust must approve all material amendments to the policy.
General Policy
It is the policy of the Service Providers to protect the confidentiality of client holdings and prevent the selective disclosure of non-public information concerning the Trust.
Exception
No information concerning the portfolio holdings of the Trust may be disclosed to any party (including shareholders) except as provided below.
Publicly Available Information. Any party may disclose portfolio holdings information after the holdings are publicly available.
Disclosure of the complete holdings of each Fund is required to be made quarterly within 60 days of the end of the Funds fiscal quarter in the Annual Report and Semi-Annual Report to Fund shareholders and in the quarterly holdings report on Form N-Q (filed after the first and third fiscal quarters). These reports are available, free of charge, on the EDGAR database on the SECs website at www.sec.gov . Each Fund will also make complete portfolio holdings available generally no later than 60 calendar days after the end of such Funds fiscal quarter or subsequent to periodic portfolio holdings disclosure in the Funds filings with the SEC or on the Funds website.
For Money Market Funds: Each Fund generally will post on its website (or, in the case of a Portfolio, on the corresponding Feeder Funds website) a full list of its portfolio holdings each Friday reflecting the portfolio holdings of the fund on the immediately preceding Wednesday. Each Fund will also post a full list of its portfolio holdings on its website (or, in the case of a Portfolio, on the corresponding Funds website) no later than the fifth business day of each month, reflecting its portfolio holdings as of the last business day of the previous month. Such monthly posting shall contain such information as required by Rule 2a-7(c)(12) under the 1940 Act and remain posted on the website for not less than six months.
Information about each Funds 10 largest holdings generally is posted on the Funds website at SSGAFUNDS.com within 30 days following the end of each month.
Press Interviews Brokers and Other Discussions
Portfolio managers and other senior officers or spokespersons of the Service Providers or the Trust may disclose or confirm the ownership of any individual portfolio holding position to reporters, brokers, shareholders, consultants or other interested persons only if such information has been previously publicly disclosed in accordance with these disclosure policies. For example, a portfolio manager discussing the Trust may indicate that he owns XYZ Company for the Trust only if the Trusts ownership of such company has previously been publicly disclosed.
Trading Desk Reports
State Street Global Advisors trading desk may periodically distribute lists of investments held by its clients (including the Trust) for general analytical research purposes. In no case may such lists identify individual clients or individual client position sizes. Furthermore, in the case of equity securities, such lists shall not show aggregate client position sizes.
Miscellaneous
Confidentiality Agreement . No non-public disclosure of the Trusts portfolio holdings will be made to any party unless such party has signed a written Confidentiality Agreement. For purposes of the disclosure policies, any Confidentiality Agreement must be in a form and substance acceptable to, and approved by, the Trusts officers.
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Evaluation Service Providers. There are numerous mutual fund evaluation services (Morningstar and Lipper) and due diligence departments of broker-dealers and wirehouses that regularly analyze the portfolio holdings of mutual funds in order to monitor and report on various attributes. These services and departments then distribute the results of their analysis to the public, paid subscribers and/or in-house brokers. In order to facilitate the review of the Trust by these services and departments, the Trust may distribute (or authorize the Service Providers and the Trusts custodian or fund accountants to distribute) month-end portfolio holdings to such services and departments only if such entity has executed a confidentiality agreement.
Additional Restrictions . Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Trusts Board of Trustees, State Street and SSGA FM may, on a case-by-case basis, impose additional restrictions on the dissemination of portfolio information beyond those found in these disclosure policies.
Waivers of Restrictions. These disclosure policies may not be waived, or exceptions made, without the consent of the Trusts officers. All waivers and exceptions involving the Trust will be disclosed to the Board of Trustees of the Trust no later than its next regularly scheduled quarterly meeting.
Disclosures Required by Law . Nothing contained herein is intended to prevent the disclosure of portfolio holdings information as may be required by applicable law. For example, SSGA FM, State Street, the Trust or any of its affiliates or service providers may file any report required by applicable law (such as Schedules 13D, 13G and 13F or Form N-MFP), respond to requests from regulators and comply with valid subpoenas.
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MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST AND STATE STREET MASTER FUNDS
The Trustees are responsible for generally overseeing the business of the Trust and State Street Master Funds (collectively, the Trusts). The Trustees listed below are also Trustees of the SSGA Funds and the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Trust (the Navigator Trust) and their respective series. Except for Messrs. Holland and Taber, the Trustees listed below are also Trustees of Elfun Diversified Fund, Elfun Government Money Market Fund, Elfun Tax-Exempt Income Fund, Elfun Income Fund, Elfun International Equity Fund and Elfun Trusts (collectively, the Elfun Funds). The following table provides information with respect to each Trustee, including those Trustees who are not considered to be interested as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the Independent Trustees), and each officer of the Trust.
NAME, ADDRESS, AND YEAR OF BIRTH |
POSITION(S)
|
TERM OF
|
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION DURING PAST FIVE YEARS AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE |
NUMBER OF FUNDS IN FUND COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY TRUSTEE |
OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD BY TRUSTEE DURING PAST FIVE YEARS |
|||||
INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES |
||||||||||
Michael F. Holland c/o SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1944 |
Trustee and Co-Chairman of the Board |
Term: Indefinite
Elected:
|
Chairman, Holland & Company L.L.C. (investment adviser) (1995- present). |
75 | Director, the Holland Series Fund, Inc.; Director, The China Fund, Inc.; Director, The Taiwan Fund, Inc.; Director, Reaves Utility Income Fund, Inc.; and Director, Blackstone/GSO Loan Funds. | |||||
Patrick J. Riley c/o SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1948 |
Trustee and Co-Chairman of the Board |
Term: Indefinite Elected:1/14 |
2002 to May 2010, Associate Justice of the Superior Court, Commonwealth of Massachusetts; 1985 to 2002, Partner, Riley, Burke & Donahue, L.L.P. (law firm); 1998 to Present, Independent Director, State Street Global Advisers Ireland, Ltd. (investment company); 1998 to Present, Independent Director, SSGA Liquidity plc (formerly, SSGA Cash Management Fund plc); January 2009 to Present, Independent Director, SSGA Fixed Income plc; and January 2009 to Present, Independent Director, SSGA Qualified Funds PLC. | 81 | Board Director and Chairman, SPDR Europe 1PLC Board (2011-Present); Board Director and Chairman, SPDR Europe II, PLC (2013- Present). | |||||
William L. Boyan c/o SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1937 |
Trustee and
Co-Chairman
Valuation Committee |
Term: Indefinite
Elected:
|
President and Chief Operations Officer, John Hancock Financial Services (1959 1999). Mr. Boyan retired in 1999. Chairman Emeritus, Childrens Hospital, Boston, MA (1984 2011); Former Trustee of Old Mutual South Africa Master Trust (investments) (1995 2008); Former Chairman, Boston Plan For Excellence, Boston Public Schools (1995 2010); Member of Advisory Board of Florida Atlantic University Lifelong Learning Society. | 81 | Former Trustee of Old Mutual South Africa Master Trust. |
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NAME, ADDRESS, AND YEAR OF BIRTH |
POSITION(S)
|
TERM OF
|
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION DURING PAST FIVE YEARS AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE |
NUMBER OF FUNDS IN FUND COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY TRUSTEE |
OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD BY TRUSTEE DURING PAST FIVE YEARS |
|||||
William L. Marshall c/o SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1942 |
Trustee and Co-Chairman of the Audit Committee |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 1/14 |
April 2011 to Present, Chairman (until April 2011, Chief Executive Officer and President), Wm. L. Marshall Associates, Inc., Wm. L. Marshall Companies, Inc. and the Marshall Financial Group, Inc. (a registered investment adviser and provider of financial and related consulting services); Certified Financial Planner; Member, Financial Planners Association; 2015 to present, Board member, The Doylestown Health Foundation Board. | 81 | Director, Marshall Financial Group, Inc. | |||||
Richard D. Shirk c/o SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1945 |
Trustee and
Co-Chairman of the Qualified Legal and Compliance Committee |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 1/14 |
March 2001 to April 2002, Chairman (1996 to March 2001, President and Chief Executive Officer), Cerulean Companies, Inc. (holding company) (Retired); 1992 to March 2001, President and Chief Executive Officer, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia (health insurer, managed healthcare); 1998 to December 2008, Chairman, Board Member and December 2008 to Present, Investment Committee Member, Healthcare Georgia Foundation (private foundation); September 2002 to 2012, Lead Director and Board Member, Amerigroup Corp. (managed health care); 1999 to 2013, Board Member and (since 2001) Investment Committee Member, Woodruff Arts Center; and 2003 to 2009, Trustee, Gettysburg College. | 81 | Board member, AeroCare Holdings (privately held healthcare services company) (February 2003-Present); Board member, Regenesis Biomedical (health care services) (April 2012-present), Chairman, (January 2014 present). | |||||
Rina K. Spence c/o SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1948 |
Trustee and
Co-Chairman of the Qualified Legal and Compliance Committee and Co-Chairman of the |
Term:
Indefinite Elected: 7/99 |
President of SpenceCare International LLC (international healthcare consulting) (1999 present); Chief Executive Officer, IEmily.com (health internet company) (2000 2001); Chief Executive Officer | 81 |
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NAME, ADDRESS, AND YEAR OF BIRTH |
POSITION(S)
|
TERM OF
|
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION DURING PAST FIVE YEARS AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE |
NUMBER OF FUNDS IN FUND COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY TRUSTEE |
OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD BY TRUSTEE DURING PAST FIVE YEARS |
|||||
Governance
Committee |
of Consensus Pharmaceutical, Inc. (1998 1999); Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Spence Center for Womens Health (1994 1998); President and CEO, Emerson Hospital (1984 1994); Trustee, Eastern Enterprise (utilities) (1988 2000); Director, Berkshire Life Insurance Company of America (1993 2009); Honorary Consul for Monaco in Boston (2015 present) | |||||||||
Bruce D. Taber c/o SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1943 |
Trustee and
Co-Chairman of the Valuation Committee and Co- Chairman of the Governance Committee |
Term:
Indefinite Elected: 1/14 |
1999 to Present, Partner, Zenergy LLC (a technology company providing Computer Modeling and System Analysis to the General Electric Power Generation Division); Until December 2008, Independent Director, SSGA Cash Management Fund plc; Until December 2008, Independent Director, State Street Global Advisers Ireland, Ltd. (investment companies); and Until August 1994, President, Alonzo B. Reed, Inc., (a Boston architect-engineering firm). | 75 | ||||||
Douglas T. Williams c/o SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1940 |
Trustee and
Co-Chairman of the Audit Committee |
Term:
Indefinite Elected: 7/99 |
President, Oakmont Homeowners Association; President, Mariner Sands Chapel; Executive Vice President and member of Executive Committee, Chase Manhattan Bank (1987 - 1999); President, Boston Stock Exchange Depository Trust Company, 1981-1982; Treasurer, Nantucket Educational Trust, (2002-2007). | 81 | ||||||
Michael A. Jessee c/o SSGA funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1946 |
Trustee |
Term: Indefinite Elected 7/16 |
Retired; formerly, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston (1989 2009). | 81 |
17
NAME, ADDRESS, AND YEAR OF BIRTH |
POSITION(S)
|
TERM OF
|
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION DURING PAST FIVE YEARS AND RELEVANT EXPERIENCE |
NUMBER OF FUNDS IN FUND COMPLEX OVERSEEN BY TRUSTEE |
OTHER DIRECTORSHIPS HELD BY TRUSTEE DURING PAST FIVE YEARS |
|||||
INTERESTED TRUSTEE (1) |
||||||||||
James E. Ross SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111-2900 YOB: 1965 |
Trustee |
Term:
Indefinite Elected Trustee: 2/07 |
Executive Vice President; State Street Global Advisors (2006 present); Chairman and Director, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (2012 present); Principal, State Street Global Advisors (2006 present); President, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (2005 2012). | 312 | Trustee, SPDR Series Trust; Trustee, SPDR Index Shares Funds; Trustee, Select Sector SPDR Trust; Trustee, SSGA Active ETF Trust; and Trustee, SSGA Master Trust. |
(1) | Mr. Ross is an interested Trustee because of his employment by SSGA Funds Management, Inc., an affiliate of the Trust. |
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The following lists the principal officers for Trust, as well as their mailing addresses and ages, positions with the Trust and length of time served, and present and principal occupations:
NAME, ADDRESS, AND YEAR OF BIRTH |
POSITION(S)
|
TERM OF
|
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION DURING PAST FIVE YEARS |
|||
OFFICERS: |
||||||
Ellen M. Needham SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111-2900 YOB: 1967 |
President |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 10/12 |
President and Director, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (2001 present)*; Senior Managing Director, State Street Global Advisors (1992-present).* | |||
Ann M. Carpenter SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111-2900 YOB: 1966 |
Vice President and
Deputy Treasurer |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 10/12 Term: Indefinite Elected: 2/16 |
Chief Operating Officer, SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (2005- present)*; Managing Director, State Street Global Advisors (2005 present).* | |||
Chad C. Hallett SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1969 |
Deputy Treasurer |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 2/16 |
Vice President, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (November 2014 present); Vice President, State Street Bank and Trust Company (2001 November 2014).* | |||
Bruce S. Rosenberg SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1961 |
Treasurer |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 2/16 |
Managing Director, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (July 2015 present); Director, Credit Suisse (April 2008 July 2015). | |||
Sujata Upreti SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1974 |
Assistant Treasurer |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 2/16 |
Vice President, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (May 2015 present); Assistant Director, Cambridge Associates, LLC (July 2014 January 2015); Vice President, Bank of New York Mellon (July 2012 August 2013); Manager, PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP (September 2003 July 2012). | |||
Daniel Foley SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1972 |
Assistant Treasurer |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 2/16 |
Vice President, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (April 2007 present).* |
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NAME, ADDRESS, AND YEAR OF BIRTH |
POSITION(S)
|
TERM OF
|
PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION DURING PAST FIVE YEARS |
|||
Brian Harris SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1973 |
Chief Compliance Officer |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 11/13 |
Managing Director, State Street Global Advisors and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (2013 Present)*; Senior Vice President and Global Head of Investment Compliance, BofA Global Capital Management (September 2010 to May 2013); Director of Compliance, AARP Financial Inc. (July 2008 to August 2010). | |||
Joshua A. Weinberg SSGA Funds Management, Inc. State Street Financial Center One Lincoln Street Boston, MA 02111-2900 YOB: 1978 |
Chief Legal Officer |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 2/15 |
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). | |||
Kristin Schantz State Street Bank and Trust Company 100 Summer Street, 7 th Floor Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1979 |
Secretary |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 5/16 |
Vice President and Senior Counsel, State Street Bank and Trust Company (2013 present); Vice President, Citi Fund Services Ohio, Inc. (2008 2013). | |||
Khimmara Greer State Street Bank and Trust Company 100 Summer Street, 7 th Floor Boston, MA 02111 YOB: 1983 |
Assistant Secretary |
Term: Indefinite Elected: 5/16 |
Vice President and Counsel, State Street Bank and Trust Company (2015- present); Regulatory Advisor, JPMorgan (2014 2015); Claims Case Manager, Liberty Mutual Insurance (2012 2014); Contract Attorney, Various Law Firms (2011 2012). |
* | Served in various capacities and/or with various affiliated entities during noted time period. |
The By-Laws of the Trust provide that the Trust shall indemnify each person who is or was a Trustee of the Trust against all expenses, judgments, fines, settlements and other amounts actually and reasonably incurred in connection with any proceedings if the person in good faith and reasonably believes that his or her conduct was in the Trusts best interest. The Trust, at its expense, provides liability insurance for the benefit of its Trustees and officers.
Summary of Trustees Qualifications
Following is a summary of the experience, attributes and skills which qualify each Trustee to serve on the Boards of Trustees of the Trust and the State Street Master Funds.
Michael F. Holland: Mr. Holland is an experienced business executive with over 45 years of experience in the financial services industry including 20 years as a portfolio manager of another registered mutual fund; his experience includes service as a trustee, director or officer of various investment companies. He has served on the Board of Trustees and related Committees of State Street Institutional Investment Trust and State Street Master Funds for 16 years (since the Trusts inception) and possesses significant experience regarding the operations and history of those Trusts. He also serves as a Trustee of the Navigator Trust.
William L. Boyan: Mr. Boyan is an experienced business executive with over 43 years of experience in the insurance industry; his experience includes prior service as a trustee, director or officer of various investment companies and charities and an executive position with a major insurance company. He has served on the Board of Trustees and related Committees of the State Street Institutional Investment Trust and the State Street Master Funds for 16 years (since the Trusts inception) and possesses significant experience regarding the operations and history of those Trusts. He also serves as a Trustee of the Navigator Trust and the Elfun Funds.
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Rina K. Spence: Ms. Spence is an experienced business executive with over 35 years of experience in the health care industry; her experience includes service as a trustee, director or officer of various investment companies, charities and utility companies and chief executive positions for various health care companies. She has served on the Board of Trustees and related Committees of the State Street Institutional Investment Trust and the State Street Master Funds for 16 years (since the Trusts inception) and possesses significant experience regarding the operations and history of those Trusts. She also serves as a Trustee of the Navigator Trust and the Elfun Funds.
Douglas T. Williams: Mr. Williams is an experienced business executive with over 42 years of experience in the banking industry; his experience includes service as a trustee or director of various investment companies and charities and senior executive positions of major bank organizations. He has served on the Board of Trustees and related Committees of the State Street Institutional Investment Trust and the State Street Master Funds for 16 years (since the Trusts inception) and possesses significant experience regarding the operations and history of those Trusts. He also serves as a Trustee of the Navigator Trust and the Elfun Funds.
James E. Ross: Mr. Ross is an experienced business executive with over 26 years of experience in the financial services industry; his experience includes service as a trustee, director or officer of various investment companies. He has served on the Board of Trustees of the State Street Institutional Investment Trust and the State Street Master Funds for 8 years and as President of the trusts for 9 years and possesses significant experience regarding the Trusts operations and history. He also serves as a Trustee of the Navigator Trust and the Elfun Funds. Mr. Ross is also a senior executive officer of State Street Global Advisors. Mr. Ross is also on the Board of Governors of the Investment Company Institute.
William L. Marshall: Mr. Marshall is an experienced business executive with over 46 years of experience in the financial services industry; his experience includes service as an advisor trustee or officer of various investment companies and charities. He has served on the Board of Trustees and related Committees of SSGA Funds for 27 years and possesses significant experience regarding the operations and history of the Trust. He also serves as a Trustee of the Navigator Trust and the Elfun Funds.
Patrick J. Riley: Mr. Riley is an experienced business executive with over 40 years of experience in the legal and financial services industries; his experience includes service as a trustee or director of various investment companies and Associate Justice of the Superior Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. He has served on the Board of Trustees and related Committees of SSGA Funds for 27 years and possesses significant experience regarding the operations and history of the Trust. He also serves as a Trustee of the Navigator Trust and the Elfun Funds.
Richard D. Shirk: Mr. Shirk is an experienced business executive with over 47 years of experience in the health care and insurance industries and with investment matters; his experience includes service as a trustee, director or officer of various health care companies and nonprofit organizations. He has served on the Board of Trustees and related Committees of SSGA Funds for 27 years and possesses significant experience regarding the operations and history of the Trust. He also serves as a Trustee of the Navigator Trust and the Elfun Funds.
Bruce D. Taber: Mr. Taber is an experienced business executive with over 42 years of experience in the power generation, technology and engineering industries; his experience includes service as a trustee or director of various investment companies. He has served on the Board of Trustees and related Committees of SSGA Funds for 24 years and possesses significant experience regarding the operations and history of the Trust. He also serves as a Trustee of the Navigator Trust.
Michael A. Jessee: Mr. Jessee is an experienced business executive with approximately 39 years of experience in the banking industry. He previously served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston as well as various senior executive positions of major banks. Mr. Jessee has served on the Navigator Trusts Board of Trustees and related Committees for 20 years and possesses significant experience regarding the Trusts operations and history. He also serves as a Trustee of the Elfun Funds.
References to the experience, attributes and skills of Trustees above are pursuant to requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC), do not constitute holding out of the Board or any Trustee as having any special expertise or experience, and shall not impose any greater responsibility or liability on any such person or on the Board by reason thereof.
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Standing Committees
The Board of Trustees has established various committees to facilitate the timely and efficient consideration of various matters of importance to Independent Trustees, the Trust, and the Trusts shareholders and to facilitate compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Currently, the Board has created an Audit Committee, Governance Committee, Valuation Committee and Qualified Legal and Compliance Committee.
The Audit Committee is composed of all of the Independent Trustees. The Audit Committee meets twice a year, or more often as required, in conjunction with meetings of the Board of Trustees. The Audit Committee oversees and monitors the Trusts internal accounting and control structure, its auditing function and its financial reporting process. The Audit Committee is responsible for selecting and retaining the independent accountants for the Trust. The Audit Committee is responsible for approving the audit plans, fees and other material arrangements in respect of the engagement of the independent accountants, including non-audit services performed. The Audit Committee reviews the qualifications of the independent accountants key personnel involved in the foregoing activities and monitors the independent accountants independence. During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, the Audit Committee held four meetings.
The Governance Committee is composed of all the Independent Trustees. The primary functions of the Governance Committee, including the Nominating Committee (a sub-committee of the Governance Committee), is to review and evaluate the composition and performance of the Board; make nominations for membership on the Board and committees; review the responsibilities of each committee; and review governance procedures, and compensation of Independent Trustees. The Nominating Committee will consider nominees to the Board recommended by shareholders. Recommendations should be submitted in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Nominating Committee Charter and should be submitted in writing to the Trust, to the attention of the Trusts Secretary, at the address of the principal executive offices of the Trust. Shareholder recommendations must be delivered to, or mailed and received at, the principal executive offices of the Trust not less than sixty (60) calendar days nor more than ninety (90) calendar days prior to the date of the Board or shareholder meeting at which the nominee candidate would be considered for election. The Governance Committee performs an annual Board self-evaluation. During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, the Governance Committee held two meetings.
The Valuation Committee is composed of all the Independent Trustees. The Valuation Committees primary purpose is to review the actions and recommendations of the Advisers Oversight Committee. The Trust has established procedures and guidelines for valuing portfolio securities and making fair value determinations from time to time. The Valuation Committee is responsible for overseeing the Funds valuation determinations, with the assistance of the Oversight Committee, State Street and SSGA FM. During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, the Valuation Committee held four meetings.
The Qualified Legal and Compliance Committee (the QLCC) is composed of all the Independent Trustees. The primary functions of the QLCC are to receive quarterly reports from the Trusts chief compliance officer (the Chief Compliance Officer); to oversee generally the Trusts responses to regulatory inquiries; and to investigate matters referred to it by the Chief Legal Officer and make recommendations to the Board regarding the implementation of an appropriate response to evidence of a material violation of the securities laws or breach of fiduciary duty or similar violation by the Trust, its officers or the Trustees. During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015, the Qualified Legal and Compliance Committee held four meetings.
Leadership Structure and Risk Management Oversight
The Board has chosen to select different individuals as Co-Chairpersons of the Board of the Trust and as President of the Trust. Currently, Mr. Holland and Mr. Riley, both Independent Trustees, serve as Co-Chairpersons of the Board, Mr. Marshall and Mr. Williams serve as Co-Chairpersons of the Audit Committee, Mr. Shirk and Ms. Spence serve as Co-Chairpersons of the QLCC, Mr. Boyan and Mr. Taber serve as Co-Chairpersons of the Valuation Committee and Mr. Taber and Ms. Spence serve as Co-Chairpersons of the Governance Committee.
Mr. Ross, who is also an employee of the Adviser, serves as a Trustee of the Trust and Ellen Needham, who is also an employee of the Adviser, serves as President of the Trust. The Board believes that this leadership structure is appropriate, since Mr. Ross and Ms. Needham provide the Board with insight regarding the Trusts day-to-day management, while Mr. Holland and Mr. Riley provide an independent perspective on the Trusts overall operation and Mr. Marshall and Mr. Williams provide a specialized perspective on audit matters.
The Board has delegated management of the Trust to service providers who are responsible for the day-to-day management of risks applicable to the Trust. The Board oversees risk management for the Trust in several ways. The Board receives regular reports from both the Chief Compliance Officer and administrator for the Trust, detailing the results of the Trusts compliance with its Board-adopted policies and procedures, the investment policies and limitations of the Portfolios, and applicable provisions of the federal
22
securities laws and the Code. As needed, the Adviser discusses management issues regarding the Trust with the Board, soliciting the Boards input on many aspects of management, including potential risks to the Funds. The Boards Audit Committee also receives reports on various aspects of risk that might affect the Trust and offers advice to management, as appropriate. The Trustees also meet in executive session with the independent counsel to the Independent Trustees, the independent registered public accounting firm, counsel to the Trust, the Chief Compliance Officer and representatives of management, as needed. Through these regular reports and interactions, the Board oversees the risk management parameters for the Trust, which are effected on a day-to-day basis by service providers to the Trust.
Trustee Ownership of Securities of the Trust, Adviser and Distributor
As of December 31, 2015 none of the Independent Trustees or their immediate family members had any ownership of securities of the Adviser or State Street Global Markets, LLC (SSGM), the Trusts distributor, or any person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Adviser or SSGM.
The following table sets forth information describing the dollar range of the Trusts equity securities beneficially owned by each Trustee as of December 31, 2015.
Name of Independent Trustee |
Dollar Range Of Equity Securities In The Funds |
Aggregate Dollar Range
Of Equity Securities In All Registered Investment Companies Overseen By Trustees In Family of Investment Companies |
||
William L. Boyan |
None | None | ||
Michael F. Holland |
None | None | ||
William L. Marshall |
None | Over $100,000 | ||
Patrick J. Riley |
None | Over $100,000 | ||
Richard D. Shirk |
None | Over $100,000 | ||
Rina K. Spence |
None | None | ||
Bruce D. Taber |
None | Over $100,000 | ||
Douglas T. Williams |
None | None | ||
Michael Jessee 1 |
None | None | ||
Name of Interested Trustee |
||||
James E. Ross |
None | Over $100,000 |
1. | Mr. Jessee was appointed to the Board effective as of July 28, 2016. |
Trustee Compensation
As of July 1, 2016, except as noted below, each Independent Trustee receives for his or her services to the State Street Master Funds, the State Street Institutional Investment Trust, the SSGA Funds, the Elfun Funds and the Navigator Trust, a $170,000 annual base retainer in addition to $22,500 for each in-person meeting, $6,000 for each special in-person meeting and $2,500 for each telephonic meeting from the Trusts. The Trust pays a fixed allocation of $18,000 per Fund. The Co-Chairmen receive an additional $50,000 annual retainer. The annual base retainer payable to Mr. Holland and to Mr. Taber is $164,000, and the annual Co-Chairmen retainer payable to Mr. Holland is $49,000 in light of the fact that neither Mr. Holland nor Mr. Taber serves as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Elfun Funds. The Independent Trustees are reimbursed for travel and other out-of pocket expenses in connection with meeting attendance. As of the date of this SAI, the Trustees were not paid pension or retirement benefits as part of the Trusts expenses.
The Trusts officers are compensated by the Adviser and its affiliates.
23
The following table sets forth the total remuneration of Trustees and officers of the Trust for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015:
AGGREGATE
COMPENSATION FROM THE TRUST |
PENSION OR
RETIREMENT BENEFITS ACCRUED AS PART OF TRUST EXPENSES |
ESTIMATED
ANNUAL BENEFITS UPON RETIREMENT |
TOTAL
COMPENSATION FROM TRUST & FUND COMPLEX PAID TO TRUSTEES |
|||||||||||||
NAME OF INDEPENDENT TRUSTEE |
||||||||||||||||
William L. Boyan, Trustee |
$ | 175,788 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 222,000 | ||||||||
Michael F. Holland, Trustee |
$ | 211,387 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 266,000 | ||||||||
William L. Marshall, Trustee |
$ | 169,297 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 222,000 | ||||||||
Patrick J. Riley, Trustee |
$ | 202,548 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 266,000 | ||||||||
Richard D. Shirk, Trustee |
$ | 169,297 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 222,000 | ||||||||
Rina K. Spence, Trustee |
$ | 175,788 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 222,000 | ||||||||
Bruce D. Taber, Trustee |
$ | 169,297 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 222,000 | ||||||||
Douglas T. Williams, Trustee |
$ | 175,788 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 222,000 | ||||||||
Michael A. Jessee, Trustee 1 |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||
NAME OF INTERESTED TRUSTEE |
||||||||||||||||
James E. Ross, Trustee |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||
Gregory A. Ehret 2 |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||
Scott F. Powers 3 |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 |
1 | Mr. Jessee was appointed to the Board effective as of July 28, 2016. |
2 | Mr. Ehret served as a Trustee from August 2015 until December 2015. |
3 | Mr. Powers served as a Trustee until May 2015. |
Codes of Ethics
The Trust, the Adviser and State Street Global Markets, LLC (the SSGM or the Distributor) have each adopted a code of ethics (together, the Codes of Ethics) as required by applicable law, which is 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). The Codes of Ethics permit personnel, subject to the Codes of Ethics and their provisions, to invest in securities for their personal investment accounts, subject to certain limitations, including securities that may be purchased or held by the Trust, Adviser, State Street or SSGM.
The Trust has adopted proxy voting procedures pursuant to which the Trust delegates the responsibility for voting proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the Portfolios to the Adviser as part of the Advisers general management of the Portfolios, subject to the Boards continuing oversight. A copy of the Trusts proxy voting procedures is located in Appendix B and a copy of the Advisers proxy voting procedures is located in Appendix C.
Shareholders may receive information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ending June 30 (i) by calling (877) 521-4083 or (ii) on the SECs website at www.sec.gov .
CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES
As of August 1, 2016, the Trustees and officers of the Trust owned in the aggregate less than 1% of the shares of each class (if applicable) of each Fund.
Persons or organizations owning 25% or more of the outstanding shares of a Fund may be presumed to control (as that term is defined in the 1940 Act) a Fund. As a result, these persons or organizations could have the ability to approve or reject those matters submitted to the shareholders of such Fund for their approval. As of August 1, 2016, to the knowledge of the Trust, the following persons held of record or beneficially through one or more accounts 25% or more of the outstanding shares of the ILR Fund and the Treasury Plus Fund.
24
Name and Address |
Percentage | |||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund Premier Class |
||||
State Street Bank and Trust FBO Cash Sweep Clients |
||||
State Street Cash Sweep Support |
||||
Attn: Cash Sweep Sup- Rick Letham |
||||
1200 Crown Colony Drive CC13 |
||||
Quincy, MA 02169-0938 |
68.88 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund Class M |
||||
State Street Bank and Trust FBO Cash Sweep Clients State Street Cash Sweep Support Attn: Cash Sweep Sup- Rick Letham 1200 Crown Colony Drive CC13 Quincy, MA 02169-0938 |
100.00 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund Investment Class |
||||
Saturn & Co C/O State Street Bank & Trust |
||||
Attn: FCG 124 |
||||
200 Clarendon Street |
||||
Boston, MA 02116-5021 |
62.23 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund Premier Class |
||||
State Street Bank & Trust FBO |
||||
Cash Sweep Clients |
||||
Attn: Cash Sweep Support Rick Letham |
||||
1200 Crown Colony Drive CC13 |
||||
Quincy, MA 02169-0938 |
84.65 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund Investment Class |
||||
Saturn & Co C/O State Street Bank & Trust |
||||
Attn: FCG 124 |
||||
200 Clarendon Street |
||||
Boston, MA 02116-5021 |
65.24 | % |
As of April 1, 2016, to the knowledge of the Trust, the following persons held of record or beneficially through one or more accounts 25% or more of the outstanding shares of the U.S. Government Money Market Fund and Treasury Fund.
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund Investment Class |
||||
Saturn & Co C/O State Street Bank & Trust |
||||
Attn: FCG 124 |
||||
200 Clarendon Street |
||||
Boston, MA 02116-5021 |
80.01 | % | ||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund Premier Class |
||||
State Street Bank and Trust |
||||
FBO Cash Sweep Clients |
||||
Attn: Cash Sweep Support- Rick Letham |
||||
1200 Crown Colony Drive CC13 |
||||
Quincy, MA 02169-0938 |
65.58 | % |
25
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund Class G |
||||
State Street Bank and Trust |
||||
FBO Cash Sweep Clients |
||||
Attn: Cash Sweep Support- Rick Letham |
||||
1200 Crown Colony Drive CC13 |
||||
Quincy, MA 02169-0938 |
100.00 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund Premier Class |
||||
State Street Bank and Trust FBO |
||||
Cash Sweep Clients |
||||
Attn: Cash Sweep Support- Rick Letham |
||||
1200 Crown Colony Drive CC13 |
||||
Quincy, MA 02169-0938 |
82.98 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund Investment Class |
||||
Saturn & Co C/O State Street Bank & Trust |
||||
Attn: FCG 124 |
||||
200 Clarendon Street |
||||
Boston, MA 02116-5021 |
91.30 | % |
As of August 1, 2016, to the knowledge of the Trust, the following persons held of record or beneficially through one or more accounts 5% or more of the outstanding shares of each class of the ILR Fund listed below. Trust Class shares of each of the ILR Fund and Treasury Plus Fund is a new class and has no ownership information to disclose as of the date of this SAI.
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund - Premier Class |
||||
Chicago Mercantile Exchange, Inc. |
||||
CFTC 1.26 Futures Customer Segregated Omnibus Account |
||||
Attn Mike Kobida |
||||
20 S. Wacker Dr. |
||||
Chicago, IL 60606-7431 |
5.68 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund - Premier Class |
||||
Cash Sweep Clients |
||||
Attn: Cash Sweep Support- Rick Letham |
||||
1200 Crown Colony Drive CC13 |
||||
Quincy, MA 02169-0938 |
68.88 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund - Investment Class |
||||
Saturn & Co. |
||||
c/o State Street Bank & Trust Company |
||||
Attn FCG 124 |
||||
200 Clarendon Street |
||||
Boston, MA 02116 |
62.23 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund - Investment Class |
||||
Neuberger Berman Management LLC FBO |
||||
Neuberger Berman Funds Shareholders |
||||
Attn Owen F. McEntee Jr. |
||||
605 Third Avenue Mail Drop 2-7 |
||||
New York, NY 10158 |
21.21 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund - Investment Class |
||||
Highland Capital Management Fund |
||||
Advisers LP FBO Highlands Class A Shareholders |
||||
Attn Travis Rachal |
||||
200 Crescent Ct. Ste 700 |
||||
Dallas, TX 75201-2116 |
11.07 | % |
26
As of April 1, 2016, to the knowledge of the Trust, the following persons held of record or beneficially through one or more accounts 5% or more of the outstanding shares of each class of the U.S. Government Fund, Treasury Fund and Treasury Plus Fund listed below.
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund Investment Class |
||||
TyphoonBass & Co. |
||||
1200 Crown Colony Dr |
||||
Quincy, MA 02169-0938 |
9.02 | % | ||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund Investment Class |
||||
State Street Bank & Trust FBO Cash Sweep Clients |
||||
Attn: Cash Sweep Support Rick Letham |
||||
1200 Crown Colony Drive CC13 |
||||
Quincy, MA 02169-0938 |
7.07 | % | ||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund - Premier Class |
||||
California Public Employees Retirement System |
||||
(Securities Finance Trust Co as Agent) |
||||
Attn Phil Picariello |
||||
175 Federal Street, Floor 11 |
||||
Boston, MA 02110-2221 |
6.99 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund Investment Class |
||||
TyphoonBass & Co. |
||||
1200 Crown Colony Dr |
||||
Quincy, MA 02169-0938 |
7.48 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund-Premier Class |
||||
JP Morgan Clearing Corp. |
||||
Attn: Denise Dilorenzo |
||||
3 Chase Metrotech Center |
||||
Brooklyn, NY 11245-0001 |
13.03 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund Investment Class |
||||
DST as Agent for Van Eck |
||||
Universal Account |
||||
FBO Van Eck Money Fund |
||||
Attn: Bruce J. Smith |
||||
666 3rd Avenue 8th floor |
||||
New York, NY 10017-4033 |
19.91 | % | ||
State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund-Investment Class |
||||
Neuberger Berman Management LLC FBO |
||||
Neuberger Berman Funds Shareholders |
||||
Attn Owen F. McEntee Jr. |
||||
605 Third Avenue Mail Drop 2-7 |
||||
New York, NY 10158 |
18.42 | % |
As of April 1, 2016, to the knowledge of the Trust, no persons held of record or beneficially through one or more accounts 25% or more of the outstanding shares of any class of the 60 Day Fund, 60 Day Portfolio, Cash Reserves Fund, Cash Reserves Portfolio, Liquid Assets Fund, Liquid Assets Portfolio, Current Yield Fund, Current Yield Portfolio, Conservative Income Fund, Conservative Income Portfolio, Ultra Short Bond Fund and Ultra Short Bond Portfolio or 5% or more of the outstanding shares of any class of any such Fund.
27
Investment Advisory Agreement
The Adviser is responsible for the investment management of the Funds pursuant to the Amended and Restated Investment Advisory Agreement dated November 17, 2015 as amended from time to time (the Advisory Agreement), by and between the Adviser and the Trust. The Adviser and State Street are wholly-owned subsidiaries of State Street Corporation, a publicly held bank holding company.
The Advisory Agreement will continue from year to year provided that a majority of the Trustees and a majority of the Independent Trustees or a majority of the shareholders of the Trust approve its continuance. The Advisory Agreement may be terminated by the Adviser or the Trust without penalty upon sixty days notice and will terminate automatically upon its assignment. The Adviser and its affiliates may have deposit, loan and other commercial banking relationships with the issuers of obligations that may be purchased on behalf of the Funds, including outstanding loans to such issuers that could be repaid in whole or in part with the proceeds of securities so purchased. Such affiliates deal, trade and invest for their own accounts in such obligations and are among the leading dealers of various types of such obligations. The Adviser has informed the Funds that, in making its investment decisions, it will not obtain or use material non-public information in its possession or in the possession of any of its affiliates. In making investment recommendations for a Fund, the Adviser will not inquire or take into consideration whether an issuer of securities proposed for purchase or sale by the Fund is a customer of the Adviser, its parent or its subsidiaries or affiliates and, in dealing with its customers, the Adviser, its parent, subsidiaries and affiliates will not inquire or take into consideration whether securities of such customers were held by any Fund managed by the Adviser or any such affiliate.
In certain instances there may be securities that are suitable for a Fund as well as for one or more of the Advisers other clients. Investment decisions for the Trust and for the Advisers other clients are made with a view to achieving their respective investment objectives. It may develop that a particular security is bought or sold for only one client even though it might be held by, or bought or sold for, other clients. Likewise, a particular security may be bought for one or more clients when one or more clients are selling that same security. Some simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several clients receive investment advice from the same investment adviser, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objectives of more than one client. When two or more clients are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, the securities are allocated among clients in a manner believed to be equitable to each. The Trust recognizes that in some cases this system could have a detrimental effect on the price or volume of the security as far as a Fund is concerned. However, it is believed that the ability of each Fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions for the Funds.
ILR Fund, U.S. Government Fund, Treasury Fund and Treasury Plus Fund : Each Fund currently invests all of its assets in a related Portfolio that has the same investment objectives and substantially the same investment policies as the relevant Fund. As long as a Fund remains completely invested in its related Portfolio (or any other investment company), the Adviser is not entitled to receive any investment advisory fee with respect to the Fund. A Fund may withdraw its investment from the related Portfolio at any time. The Trust has retained the Adviser as investment adviser to manage a Funds assets in the event that the Fund withdraws its investment from its related Portfolio.
The Adviser is also the investment adviser to each of the related Portfolios pursuant to an investment advisory agreement (the Portfolio Advisory Agreement) between the Adviser and State Street Master Funds, on behalf of the Portfolios. The Adviser receives an investment advisory fee with respect to each related Portfolio. The Portfolio Advisory Agreement is the same in all material respects as the Advisory Agreement between the Trust on behalf of the Funds and the Adviser. Each Fund that invests in a related Portfolio bears a proportionate part of the management fees paid by the Portfolio (based on the percentage of the Portfolios assets attributable to the Fund).
For the services provided under the Advisory Agreement and the Portfolio Advisory Agreement, each Fund pays the Adviser a fee at an annual rate set forth below of the Funds average daily net assets.
Fund |
Fee Rate | |||
ILR Fund |
0.05 | % | ||
U.S. Government Fund |
0.05 | % | ||
Treasury Fund |
0.05 | % | ||
Treasury Plus Fund |
0.05 | % |
28
60 Day Fund, Cash Reserves Fund, Conservative Income Fund, Current Yield Fund, Institutional Liquid Assets Fund and Ultra Short Bond Fund: Each Fund expects to invest substantially all of its assets in a related Portfolio, which has the same investment objectives and substantially similar investment policies as the relevant Fund. The Portfolios pay no investment advisory fees to SSGA FM. For the services provided under the Advisory Agreement, each Fund pays the Adviser a fee at an annual rate set forth below of the Funds average daily net assets.
Fund |
Fee Rate | |||
60 Day Fund |
0.08 | % | ||
Cash Reserves Fund |
0.10 | % | ||
Conservative Income Fund |
0.10 | % | ||
Current Yield Fund |
0.08 | % | ||
Institutional Liquid Assets Fund |
0.05 | % | ||
Ultra Short Bond Fund |
0.25 | % |
The advisory fees paid by the 60 Day Fund, the Cash Reserves Fund, the Liquid Assets Fund, the Current Yield Fund, the Conservative Income Fund, and Ultra Short Bond Fund to SSGA FM for the last three fiscal years have been omitted because the Funds had not commenced investment operations as of December 31, 2015.
The Adviser may reimburse expenses or waive fees to avoid negative yield (the Voluntary Reduction), or a yield below a specified level. Any such waiver or reimbursement would be voluntary and may be revised or cancelled at any time without notice. The ILR Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2013. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund, without limitation. For the year ended December 31, 2015, SSGA FM voluntarily waived fees of $0 on the ILR Fund.
The Adviser may reimburse expenses or waive fees to avoid negative yield (the Voluntary Reduction) or a yield below a specified level. Any such waiver or reimbursement would be voluntary and may be revised or cancelled at any time without notice. The U.S. Government Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2013. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund, without limitation. For the year ended December 31, 2015, SSGA FM voluntarily waived fees of $5,410,389 on the U.S. Government Fund.
The Adviser may reimburse expenses or waive fees of the Premier Class and Investment Class of the Treasury Fund to avoid negative yield (the Voluntary Reduction), or a yield below a specified level. Any such waiver or reimbursement would be voluntary and may be revised or cancelled at any time without notice. The Treasury Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2013. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund, without limitation. For the year ended December 31, 2015, SSGA FM voluntarily waived fees of $8,650,278 on the Treasury Fund.
The Adviser may reimburse expenses or waive fees to avoid negative yield (the Voluntary Reduction), or a yield below a specified level. Any such waiver or reimbursement would be voluntary and may be revised or cancelled at any time without notice. The Treasury Plus Fund has agreed, subject to certain limitations, to reimburse the Adviser for the full dollar amount of any Voluntary Reduction incurred after October 1, 2013. The Adviser may, in its sole discretion, irrevocably waive receipt of any or all reimbursement amounts due from the Fund, without limitation. For the year ended December 31, 2015, SSGA FM voluntarily waived fees of $1,116,105 on the Treasury Plus Fund.
Administrator
SSGA FM serves as the administrator for the Funds pursuant to an Amended and Restated Administration Agreement dated June 1, 2015. Under the Amended and Restated Administration Agreement, SSGA FM is obligated to continuously provide business management services to the Trust and each Fund and will generally, subject to the general oversight of the Trustees and except as otherwise provided in the Amended and Restated Administration Agreement, manage all of the business and affairs of the Trust. The nature and amount of services provided by SSGA FM under the Amended and Restated Administration Agreement may vary as
29
between classes of shares of a Fund, and a Fund may pay fees to SSGA FM under that Agreement at different rates in respect of its different share classes. Except as noted below, as consideration for SSGA FMs services as administrator to each Fund, SSGA FM receives an annual fee of 0.05% of the average daily net assets of such Fund, accrued daily at the rate of 1/365th and payable monthly on the first business day of each month.
The administration fees paid to SSGA FM for the last three fiscal years are set forth in the table below.
Fund |
Fiscal year
December 31,
|
Fiscal year ended
December 31,
|
Fiscal year ended
December 31,
|
|||||||||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund |
$ | 15,988,382 | $ | 19,299,485 | $ | 19,976,334 | ||||||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund |
$ | 4,003,329 | $ | 4,976,203 | $ | 6,042,905 | ||||||
State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund |
$ | 6,095,038 | $ | 5,276,688 | $ | 5,272,626 | ||||||
State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund |
$ | 1,046,161 | $ | 1,308,537 | $ | 890,340 |
The administration fees paid by the 60 Day Fund, the Cash Reserves Fund, the Liquid Assets Fund, the Current Yield Fund, the Conservative Income Fund, and Ultra Short Bond Fund to SSGA FM for the last three fiscal years have been omitted because the Funds had not commenced investment operations as of December 31, 2015.
Sub-Administrator, Custodian and Transfer Agent
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 the Funds. State Street is a wholly owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation, a publicly held bank holding company, and is affiliated with the Adviser. State Streets mailing address is State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111-2900.
State Street serves as custodian and fund accountant for the Funds pursuant to a Custody Agreement and holds the Funds assets.
Sub-Administration, Custody and Fund Accounting Fees (Effective June 1, 2015):
Fee for Custody and Fund Accounting |
$12,000 per Feeder Fund per year for the first two feeders $9,600 per Feeder Fund per year for each additional feeder fund |
|
Fee for Sub-administration |
$25,000 per Feeder Fund per year |
The sub-administration and custodian fees paid to State Street for the last three fiscal years are set forth in the table below.
Fund |
Fiscal year
December 31,
|
Fiscal year ended
December 31,
|
Fiscal year ended
December 31,
|
|||||||||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund |
$ | 42,239 | $ | 42,038 | $ | 43,111 | ||||||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund |
$ | 42,069 | $ | 41,964 | $ | 42,946 | ||||||
State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund |
$ | 42,069 | $ | 41,967 | $ | 43,092 | ||||||
State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund |
$ | 42,108 | $ | 41,963 | $ | 42,935 |
The sub-administration and custodian fees paid by the 60 Day Fund, the Cash Reserves Fund, the Liquid Assets Fund, the Current Yield Fund, the Conservative Income Fund, and Ultra Short Bond Fund to SSGA FM for the last three fiscal years have been omitted because the Funds had not commenced investment operations as of December 31, 2015.
Prior to June 1, 2015, as consideration for State Streets services as sub-administrator, custodian and accounting agent for each Fund except the 60 Day Fund, Cash Reserves Fund, Liquid Assets Fund, Current Yield Fund, Conservative Income Fund and Ultra Short
30
Bond Fund, State Street received annual fees, accrued daily at the rate of 1/365th and payable monthly on the first business day of each month, pursuant to the following schedule:
Annual Fee Schedule
$25,000 for Sub-Administration Services (payable by SSGA FM with respect to each Fund)
$12,600 for Custody and Accounting Services (payable by each Fund)
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) serves as the Transfer and Dividend Paying Agent for the Funds. BFDS is a joint venture of State Street Corporation and DST Systems, Inc. BFDS is paid for the following annual account services and activities including but limited to: establishment and maintenance of each shareholders account; closing an account; acceptance and processing of trade orders; preparation; and transmission of payments for dividends and distributions declared by each Fund; customer service support including receipt of correspondence and responding to shareholder and financial intermediary inquiries; investigation services; IRA custodial services; tax related support; sales charge and 12b-1 payment processing; and charges related to compliance and regulatory services.
Portfolio fees are allocated to each Fund based on the average net asset value of each Fund and are billable on a monthly basis at the rate of 1/12 of the annual fee. BFDS is reimbursed by each Fund for supplying certain out-of-pocket expenses including but not limited to: Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Delegations, omnibus transparency (market timing) services; confirmation statements and periodic investor statements, fulfillment, banking fees, postage, forms, audio response, telephone, records retention, customized programming/enhancements, reports, transcripts, and expenses incurred at the specific direction of the Fund. BFDSs principal business address is 2000 Crown Colony Drive; Quincy, MA 02169.
The transfer agency fees paid to BFDS for the last three fiscal years are set forth in the table below.
Fund |
Fiscal year ended
December 31, 2013 |
Fiscal year ended
December 31, 2014 |
Fiscal year ended
December 31, 2015 |
|||||||||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund |
$ | 72,521 | $ | 201,489 | $ | 59,546 | ||||||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund |
$ | 26,921 | $ | 53,579 | $ | 70,868 | ||||||
State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund |
$ | 22,478 | $ | 28,600 | $ | 47,663 | ||||||
State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund |
$ | 72,521 | $ | 201,489 | $ | 52,166 |
31
The transfer agency fees paid by the 60 Day Fund, the Cash Reserves Fund, the Liquid Assets Fund, the Current Yield Fund, the Conservative Income Fund, and Ultra Short Bond Fund to SSGA FM for the last three fiscal years have been omitted because the Funds had not commenced investment operations as of December 31, 2015.
Distributor
SSGM serves as the distributor of the Funds pursuant to the Distribution Agreement by and between the Distributor and the Trust. Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, the Funds pay the Distributor fees under the Rule 12b-1 Plan in effect for the Funds. For a description of the fees paid to the Distributor under the Rule 12b-1 Plan, see Shareholder Servicing and Distribution Plans, below. SSGM is a wholly owned subsidiary of State Street Corporation. SSGMs mailing address is State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111-2900.
Shareholder Servicing and Distribution Plans
To compensate SSGM for the services it provides and for the expenses it bears in connection with the distribution of shares of the Funds, each Fund may make payments (Rule 12b-1 Fees) from the assets attributable to certain classes of its shares to SSGM under a distribution plan adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the Distribution Plan). The Distribution Plan is a compensation plan that provides for payments at annual rates (based on average daily net assets) set out below. Because Rule 12b-1 Fees are paid on an ongoing basis, they will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales loads. It is expected that SSGM will pay substantially all of the amounts it receives under the Plan to intermediaries involved in the sale of shares of the Funds, including affiliates of the Adviser. The principal business address of SSGM is One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111.
The Distribution Plan will continue in effect with respect to a class of shares of a Fund only if such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a vote of both a majority of the Board of Trustees and a majority of the Independent Trustees who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Distribution Plan or in any agreements related thereto (the Qualified Distribution Plan Trustees). The Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount of a Funds permitted expenses thereunder without the approval of a majority of the outstanding shares of the affected share class and may not be materially amended in any case without a vote of the majority of both the Trustees and the Qualified Distribution Plan Trustees. As of December 31, 2015 none of the Independent Trustees had a direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Rule 12b-1 Plan. The Rule 12b-1 Plan calls for payments at an annual rate (based on each Funds average net assets) as follows:
Premier Class* |
0.00 | % | ||
Service Class** |
0.00 | % | ||
Investment Class |
0.10 | % | ||
Institutional Class |
0.00 | % | ||
Investor Class |
0.00 | % | ||
Administration Class |
0.05 | % | ||
Class M |
0.00 | % | ||
Class G |
0.00 | % | ||
Trust Class |
0.00 | % |
* | All Funds except for Ultra Short Bond Fund |
** | ILR Fund, U.S. Government Fund, Treasury Fund and Treasury Plus Fund only. |
| ILR Fund only. |
| U.S. Government Fund only. |
| ILR Fund and Treasury Plus Fund only. |
The total Rule 12b-1 fees paid to SSGM and other intermediaries for the last fiscal year are reflected in the chart below.
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Fund |
SSGM
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2015 |
Other
Intermediaries Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2015 |
||||||
ILR Fund: |
||||||||
Investment Class |
$ | 0 | $ | 480,258 | ||||
Administration Class |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||
U.S. Government Fund: |
||||||||
Investment Class |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||
Administration Class |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||
Treasury Fund: |
||||||||
Investment Class |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||
Administration Class |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||
Treasury Plus Fund: |
||||||||
Investment Class |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||
Administration Class |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 |
Pursuant to a Shareholder Servicing Plan, the Trust may pay a shareholder servicing fee for the provision of personal services to and the maintenance of shareholder accounts of investors in the Investment Class, Service Class, Administration Class, Institutional Class and Investor Class shares of the Funds. Shareholder servicing fees paid for the last fiscal year included amounts paid to State Street Bank and Trust Company, Wealth Management Services (WMS), an affiliate of the Adviser. WMS is among the financial intermediaries which may receive fees from the Rule 12b-1 Plan.
The Shareholder Servicing Plan calls for payments by the Trust at an annual rate (based on average net assets) as follows:
Service Class* |
Investment Class | Institutional Class |
Administration
Class |
Investor
Class |
Premier | |||||||||||||||||
0.05 | % | 0.25 | % | 0.03 | % | 0.20 | % | 0.08 | % | None |
* | ILR Fund, U.S. Government Fund, Treasury Fund and Treasury Plus Fund only. |
No payments under the Shareholder Servicing Plan will be made for Trust Class shares, Premier Class shares, Class M shares or Class G shares.
Payments to Financial Intermediaries
Financial intermediaries are firms that, for compensation, sell shares of mutual funds, including the Funds, and/or provide certain administrative and account maintenance services to mutual fund shareholders. Financial intermediaries may include, among others, brokers, financial planners or advisors, banks, and insurance companies. In some cases, a financial intermediary may hold its clients Fund shares in nominee or street name. Shareholder services provided by a financial intermediary may (though they will not necessarily) include, among other things: processing and mailing trade confirmations, periodic statements, prospectuses, annual reports, semi-annual reports, shareholder notices, and other SEC-required communications; capturing and processing tax data; issuing and mailing dividend checks to shareholders who have selected cash distributions; preparing record date shareholder lists for proxy solicitations; collecting and posting distributions to shareholder accounts; and establishing and maintaining systematic withdrawals and automated investment plans and shareholder account registrations.
Some portion of SSGMs payments to financial intermediaries will be made out of amounts received by SSGM under the Funds Distribution Plans. In addition, the Funds may reimburse SSGM for payments SSGM makes to financial intermediaries that provide recordkeeping, shareholder servicing, sub-transfer agency, administrative and/or account maintenance services (collectively, servicing). The amount of the reimbursement for servicing compensation and the manner in which it is calculated are reviewed by the Trustees periodically.
The compensation paid by SSGM to a financial intermediary may be paid continually over time, during the period when the intermediarys clients hold investments in the Funds. The compensation to financial intermediaries may include networking fees and account-based fees. The amount of continuing compensation paid by SSGM to different financial intermediaries varies. In the case of most financial intermediaries, compensation for servicing in excess of any amount covered by payments under a Distribution Plan is
33
generally paid at an annual rate of 0.10% 0.20% of the aggregate average daily net asset value of Fund shares held by that financial intermediarys customers, although in some cases the compensation may be paid at higher annual rates (which may, but will not necessarily, reflect enhanced or additional services provided by the financial intermediary).
SSGM and its affiliates (including SSGA FM), at their own expense and out of their own assets, may also provide compensation to financial intermediaries in connection with sales of the Funds shares or servicing of shareholders or shareholder accounts by financial intermediaries. Such compensation may include, but is not limited to, ongoing payments, financial assistance to financial intermediaries in connection with conferences, sales, or training programs for their employees, seminars for the public, advertising or sales campaigns, or other financial intermediary-sponsored special events. In some instances, this compensation may be made available only to certain financial intermediaries whose representatives have sold or are expected to sell significant amounts of shares. Financial intermediaries may not use sales of the Funds shares to qualify for this compensation to the extent prohibited by the laws or rules of any state or any self-regulatory agency, such as the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (FINRA). The level of payments made to a financial intermediary in any given year will vary and, in the case of most financial intermediaries, will not exceed 0.05% of the value of assets attributable to the financial intermediary invested in shares of funds in the SSGA FM-fund complex. In certain cases, the payments described in the preceding sentence are subject to minimum payment levels.
If payments to financial intermediaries by the distributor or adviser for a particular mutual fund complex exceed payments by other mutual fund complexes, your financial advisor and the financial intermediary employing him or her may have an incentive to recommend that fund complex over others. Please speak with your financial advisor to learn more about the total amounts paid to your financial advisor and his or her firm by SSGM and its affiliates, and by sponsors of other mutual funds he or she may recommend to you. You should also consult disclosures made by your financial intermediary at the time of purchase. Because the Funds pay distribution, service and other fees for the sale of their shares and for services provided to shareholders out of the Funds assets on an ongoing basis, over time those fees will increase the cost of an investment in a Fund.
A Fund may pay distribution fees, service fees and other amounts described above at a time when shares of the Fund are not being actively promoted to new investors generally, or when shares of that Fund are unavailable for purchase.
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 the Funds have been informed by SSGM that the following expenditures were made using the amounts each Fund paid under its Distribution Plan:
Fund |
Advertising | Printing |
Compensation to
Dealers |
Compensation to
Sales Personnel |
Interest,
Carrying or Other Financing Charges |
Other* | ||||||||||||||||||
State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 |
* | Includes such items as compensation for travel, conferences and seminars for staff, subscriptions, office charges and professional fees. Rule 12b-1 fees paid by the State Street 60 Day Money Market Fund, State Street Cash Reserves Fund, State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Fund, State Street Current Yield Fund, State Street Conservative Income Fund, and State Street Ultra Short Bond Fund have been omitted because the Funds had not commenced investment operations as of December 31, 2015. |
Set forth below is a list of financial intermediaries, including but not limited to, those to which SSGM (and its affiliates) expects, as of August 3, 2016, to pay compensation in the manner described in this Payments to Financial Intermediaries section.
| Bank of New York Mellon |
| Benefits Trust Company |
| BMO Capital Markets Corp |
| Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. |
| Chicago Mercantile Exchange Inc. |
| Common Fund Securities Inc. |
| FIS (formerly Sungard Institutional Brokerage, Inc.) |
| Goldman Sachs & Co |
| Highland Capital Management Fund Advisors L.P. |
| Institutional Cash Distributors LLC |
| Investor Services, a division of State Street Bank and Trust |
34
| JP Morgan Clearing Corp |
| Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC |
| My Treasury Limited |
| Neuberger Berman Management Company LLC |
| John Hancock Trust Co. |
| SG Americas Securities, LLC |
| State Street Bank and Trust Company - Wealth Manager Services |
| Thales Capital Partners LLC |
| The Bancorp Bank |
| Union Bank, N.A. |
| US Bank, N.A. |
| Van Eck Securities Corporation |
Counsel and Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Ropes & Gray LLP serves as counsel to the Trust. The principal business address of Ropes & Gray LLP is 800 Boylston Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02199. Joseph P. Barri LLC, located at 259 Robbins Street, Milton, Massachusetts 02186, serves as independent counsel to the Independent Trustees.
Ernst & Young LLP serves as the independent registered public accounting firm for the Trust and provides (i) audit services and (ii) tax services. In connection with the audit of the 2015 financial statements, the Trust entered into an engagement agreement with Ernst & Young LLP that sets forth the terms of Ernst & Young LLPs audit engagement. The principal business address of Ernst & Young LLP is 200 Clarendon Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116.
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The following persons serve as the portfolio managers of the Current Yield Fund, the Conservative Income Fund and the Ultra Short Bond Fund as of the date of this SAI. The following table lists the number and types of accounts managed by each individual and assets under management in those accounts as of December 31, 2015:
Portfolio Manager |
Fund |
Registered
Investment Company Accounts* |
Assets
Managed ($ billions) |
Other
Pooled Investment Vehicle Accounts* |
Assets
Managed ($billions) |
Other
Accounts* |
Assets
Managed ($ billions) |
Total
Assets Managed ($ billions) |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Jeff St. Peters |
Current Yield Fund, Conservative Income Fund, Ultra Short Bond Fund | 19 | 127.04 | 25 | 98.42 | 104 | 117.71 | 343.17 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Todd Bean |
Current Yield Fund, Conservative Income Fund, Ultra Short Bond Fund | 19 | 127.04 | 25 | 98.42 | 104 | 117.71 | 343.17 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Sean Lussier |
Current Yield Fund, Conservative Income Fund, Ultra Short Bond Fund | 19 | 127.04 | 25 | 98.42 | 104 | 117.71 | 343.17 |
As indicated in the tables above, portfolio managers at the Adviser may manage numerous accounts for multiple clients. These accounts may include registered investment companies (which include exchange-traded funds), 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. The portfolio managers do not beneficially own any shares of any Fund as of December 31, 2015.
When a portfolio manager has responsibility for managing more than one account, potential conflicts of interest may arise. Those conflicts may arise out of: (a) the portfolio managers execution of different investment strategies for various accounts; or (b) the allocation of resources or investment opportunities.
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 manager may also manage accounts whose objectives and policies differ from that of the respective Fund. 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 manager is 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. This conflict may be heightened if an account is subject to a performance-based fee. Another potential
conflict may arise when the portfolio manager has an investment in one or more accounts that participates 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 within the Adviser are normally responsible for all accounts within a certain investment discipline and do not, absent special
36
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 be fair and equitable.
The compensation of SSGA FMs investment professionals is based on a number of factors, including external benchmarking data and market trends, State Street Corporation performance, SSGA performance, and individual performance. Each year State Street Corporations Global Human Resources department participates in compensation surveys in order to provide SSGA with critical, market-based compensation information that helps support individual pay decisions. Additionally, subject to State Street Corporation and SSGA business results, State Street Corporation allocates an incentive pool to SSGA to reward its employees. Because the size of the incentive pool is based on the firms overall profitability and performance against risk-related goals, each staff member is motivated to contribute both as an individual and as a team member.
The incentive pool is allocated to the various functions within SSGA. The discretionary determination of the allocation amounts to business units is influenced by market-based compensation data, as well as the overall performance of the group. Individual compensation decisions are made by the employees manager, in conjunction with the senior management of the employees business unit. These decisions are based on the performance of the employee and, as mentioned above, on the performance of the firm and business unit.
BROKERAGE ALLOCATION AND OTHER PRACTICES
Each Fund invests all of its investable assets in a corresponding Portfolio and therefore does not directly incur transactional costs for purchases and sales of portfolio investments. The Funds purchase and redeem shares of the corresponding Portfolio each day depending on the number of shares of such Fund purchased or redeemed by investors on that day. Shares of the Portfolios are available for purchase by the Funds at their NAV without any sales charges, transaction fees, or brokerage commissions being charged.
All portfolio transactions are placed on behalf of the Portfolios by the Adviser. Purchases and sales of securities on a securities exchange are effected through brokers who charge a commission for their services. Ordinarily commissions are not charged on over the counter orders (including, for example, debt securities and money market investments) because a Portfolio pays a spread which is included in the cost of the security, and is the difference between the dealers cost and the cost to a Portfolio. When a Portfolio executes an over the counter order with an electronic communications network, an alternative trading system or a non-market maker, a commission is charged because there is no spread on the trade. Securities may be purchased from underwriters at prices that include underwriting fees. The Portfolios normally do not pay a stated brokerage commission on transactions.
Each Portfolios investment advisory agreement authorizes the Adviser to place, in the name of the Portfolio, orders for the execution of the securities transactions in which the Portfolio is authorized to invest, provided the Adviser, and as applicable, the sub-adviser seeks the best overall terms for the transaction. In selecting brokers or dealers (including affiliates of the Adviser, and as applicable, the sub-adviser), the Adviser, and as applicable, the sub-adviser chooses the broker-dealer deemed most capable of providing the services necessary to obtain the most favorable execution (the most favorable cost or net proceeds reasonably obtainable under the circumstances). The full range of brokerage services applicable to a particular transaction 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, brokerage and research services, underwriting, and provision of information on a particular security or market in which the transaction is to occur. The specific criteria will vary depending on 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, and as applicable, the sub-adviser does not currently use any Portfolios assets for soft-dollar arrangements. The Adviser, and as applicable, the sub-adviser does not presently participate in any soft dollar arrangements. It may aggregate trades with clients of State Street Global Advisors whose commission dollars are used to generate soft dollar credits for State Street Global Advisors. Although the Advisers clients commissions are not used for soft dollars, the Adviser and State Street Global Advisors clients may benefit from the soft dollar products/services received by State Street Global Advisors.
The Adviser assumes general supervision over placing orders on behalf of the Trust for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities.
37
DECLARATION OF TRUST, CAPITAL STOCK AND OTHER INFORMATION
Capitalization
Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees are authorized to issue an unlimited number of shares of each Fund. Upon liquidation or dissolution of a Fund, investors are entitled to share pro rata in the Funds net assets available for distribution to its investors. Investments in a Fund have no preference, preemptive, conversion or similar rights, except as determined by the Trustees or as set forth in the Bylaws, and are fully paid and non-assessable, except as set forth below.
Declarations of Trust
The Declarations of Trust of the Trust and the Master Trust each provide that a Trust may redeem shares of a Fund at the redemption price that would apply if the share redemption were initiated by a shareholder. It is the policy of each Trust that, except upon such conditions as may from time to time be set forth in the then current prospectus of a Fund or to facilitate a Trusts or a Funds compliance with applicable law or regulation, a Trust would not initiate a redemption of shares unless it were to determine that failing to do so may have a substantial adverse consequence for a Fund or the Trust.
Each Trusts Declaration of Trust provides that a Trustee who is not an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) of a Trust will be deemed independent and disinterested with respect to any demand made in connection with a derivative action or proceeding. It is the policy of each Trust that it will not assert that provision to preclude a shareholder from claiming that a Trustee is not independent or disinterested with respect to any demand made in connection with a derivative action or proceeding; provided, however, that the foregoing policy will not prevent the Trusts from asserting applicable law (including Section 2B of Chapter 182 of the Massachusetts General Laws) to preclude a shareholder from claiming that a Trustee is not independent or disinterested with respect to any demand made in connection with a derivative action or proceeding.
A Trust will not deviate from the foregoing policies in a manner that adversely affects the rights of shareholders of a Fund without the approval of a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) of such Fund.
Voting
Each shareholder is entitled to a vote in proportion to the number of Fund shares it owns. Shares do not have cumulative voting rights in the election of Trustees, and shareholders holding more than 50% of the aggregate outstanding shares in the Trust may elect all of the Trustees if they choose to do so. The Trust is not required and has no current intention to hold annual meetings of shareholders but the Trust will hold special meetings of shareholders when in the judgment of the Trustees it is necessary or desirable to submit matters for a shareholder vote.
Massachusetts Business Trust
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders in a Massachusetts business trust could, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable for the obligations of the trust. However, the Declaration of Trust disclaims shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Trust and provides for indemnification out of the property of the applicable series of the Trust for any loss to which the shareholder may become subject by reason of being or having been a shareholder of that series and for reimbursement of the shareholder for all expense arising from such liability. Thus the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability should be limited to circumstances in which the series would be unable to meet its obligations.
Pricing of shares of the Funds does not occur on New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) holidays. The NYSE is open for trading every weekday except for: (a) the following holidays: New Years Day, Martin Luther King, Jr.s Birthday, Washingtons Birthday (the third Monday in February), Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas; and (b) the preceding Friday or the subsequent Monday when one of the calendar-determined holidays falls on a Saturday or Sunday, respectively. Purchases and withdrawals will be effected at the time of determination of NAV next following the receipt of any purchase or withdrawal order which is determined to be in good order. The Funds securities will be valued pursuant to guidelines established by the Board of Trustees.
38
U.S. Government Fund, Treasury Fund, Treasury Plus Fund and Cash Reserves Fund
Each Fund seeks to maintain a constant price per share of $1.00 for purposes of sales and redemptions of shares by using the amortized cost valuation method to value its portfolio instruments in accordance with Rule 2a-7 under the 1940 Act. There can be no assurance that the $1.00 NAV per share will be maintained. The amortized cost method involves valuing an instrument at its cost and thereafter assuming a constant amortization to maturity of any discount or premium, even though the portfolio security may increase or decrease in market value, generally in response to changes in interest rates. While this method provides certainty in valuation, it may result in periods during which value, as determined by amortized cost, is higher or lower than the price each Fund would receive if it sold the instrument.
For example, in periods of declining interest rates, the daily yield on each of the Funds shares computed by dividing the annualized daily income on the Funds portfolio by the NAV based upon the amortized cost valuation technique may tend to be higher than a similar computation made by using a method of valuation based upon market prices and estimates thereof. In periods of rising interest rates, the daily yield on each Funds shares computed the same way may tend to be lower than a similar computation made by using a method of calculation based upon market prices and estimates.
The Trustees have established procedures reasonably designed to stabilize each Funds price per share at $1.00. These procedures include: (1) the determination of the deviation from $1.00, if any, of each Funds NAV using market values; (2) periodic review by the Trustees of the amount of and the methods used to calculate the deviation; and (3) maintenance of records of such determination. The Trustees will promptly consider what action, if any, should be taken if such deviation exceeds 1/2 of one percent.
60 Day Fund and Liquid Assets Fund
Each Funds NAV per share will float. Each Fund determines its NAV per share four times each business day at 9:00am, 12:00pm, 3:00pm and 5:00pm Eastern Time (ET) except for days when the NYSE closes earlier than its regular closing time, in which event each Fund will determine its NAVs at the earlier closing time (each time when a Fund determines its NAV per share is referred to herein as a Valuation Time). Pricing does not occur on NYSE holidays. Each Fund calculates its NAV to four decimal places.
ILR Fund
Effective October 12, 2016 the ILR Funds NAV per share will float. The ILR Fund will determine its NAV per share three times each business day at 9:00am, 12:00pm and 3:00pm Eastern Time (ET) except for days when the NYSEs regular closing is prior to 3 p.m. ET, in which event the ILR Fund will determine its final NAV for the day at the earlier closing time (each time when the ILR Fund determines its NAV per share is referred to herein as a Valuation Time). Pricing does not occur on NYSE holidays. The ILR Fund will calculate its NAV to four decimal places.
Current Yield Fund, Conservative Income Fund, Ultra Short Bond Fund
Each Fund determines its NAV per share once each business day as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE. Pricing does not occur on NYSE holidays. The NAV per share of a Fund is based on the market value of the investments held in the Fund. The NAV of each class of each Funds shares is calculated by dividing the value of the assets of the Fund attributable to that class less the liabilities of the Fund attributable to that class by the number of shares in the class outstanding. Each Fund values each security or other investment pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board of Trustees. Securities or other investments may be valued at fair value, as determined in good faith and pursuant to procedures approved by the Portfolios Board of Trustees, under certain limited circumstances. For example, fair value pricing may be used when market quotations are not readily available or reliable, such as when (i) trading for a security is restricted; or (ii) a significant event, as determined by the Adviser, that may affect the value of one or more securities or other investments held by the Fund occurs after the close of a related exchange but before the determination of the Funds NAV. Attempts to determine the fair value of securities or other investments introduce an element of subjectivity to the pricing of securities or other investments. As a result, the price of a security or other investment determined through fair valuation techniques may differ from the price quoted or published by other sources and may not accurately reflect the price a Fund would have received had it sold the investment. To the extent that a Fund invests in the shares of other registered open-end investment companies that are not traded on an exchange (mutual funds), such shares are valued at their published net asset values per share as reported by the funds. The prospectuses of these funds explain the circumstances under which the funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.
39
The following discussion of U.S. federal income tax consequences of an investment in the Funds is based on the Code, U.S. Treasury regulations, and other applicable authority, as of the date of this SAI. These authorities are subject to change by legislative or administrative action, possibly with retroactive effect. The following discussion is only a summary of some of the important U.S. federal income tax considerations generally applicable to investments in the Funds. There may be other tax considerations applicable to particular shareholders. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisors regarding their particular situation and the possible application of foreign, state and local tax laws.
Special tax rules apply to investments through defined contribution plans and other tax-qualified plans or tax-advantaged arrangements. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers to determine the suitability of shares of a Fund as an investment through such plans and arrangements and the precise effect of an investment on their particular tax situations.
The Funds invest substantially all of their assets in the corresponding Portfolio (which may be a series of State Street Master Funds).
In the discussion below, Portfolio refers to the corresponding Portfolio in which the relevant Fund(s) invest their assets.
Qualification as a Regulated Investment Company
Each Fund has elected or intends to elect to be treated as a regulated investment company (RIC) under Subchapter M of the Code and intends each year to qualify and be eligible to be treated as such. In order to qualify for the special tax treatment accorded RICs and their shareholders, each Fund must, among other things, (a) derive at least 90% of its gross income for each taxable year from (i) dividends, interest, payments with respect to certain securities loans, gains from the sale of securities or foreign currencies, or other income (including but not limited to gains from options, futures or forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies and (ii) net income derived from interests in qualified publicly traded partnerships (as defined below); (b) diversify its holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of the Funds taxable year, (i) at least 50% of the value of the Funds total assets consists of cash and cash items, U.S. Government securities, securities of other RICs, and other securities limited in respect of any one issuer to a value not greater than 5% of the value of the Funds total assets and no more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (ii) no more than 25% of its assets are invested, including through corporations in which the Fund owns a 20% or more voting stock interest, (x) in the securities (other than those of the U.S. Government or other RICs) of any one issuer or of two or more issuers which the Fund controls and which are engaged in the same, similar or related trades and businesses, or (y) in the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships (as defined below); and (c) distribute with respect to each taxable year at least 90% of the sum of its investment company taxable income (as that term is defined in the Code without regard to the deduction for dividends paid generally taxable ordinary income and the excess, if any, of net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses) and net tax-exempt income, for such year.
In general, for purposes of the 90% gross income requirement described in (a) above, income derived from a partnership will be treated as qualifying income only to the extent such income is attributable to items of income of the partnership which would be qualifying income if realized directly by the RIC.
However, 100% of the net income derived from an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership (a partnership (x) the interests in which are traded on an established securities market or readily tradable on a secondary market or the substantial equivalent thereof, and (y) that derives less than 90% of its income from the qualifying income described in section (a)(i) of the preceding paragraph), will be treated as qualifying income. In general, such entities will be treated as partnerships for federal income tax purposes, because they meet the passive income requirement under Code section 7704(c)(2). Further, although in general the passive loss rules of the Code do not apply to RICs, such rules do apply to a RIC with respect to items attributable to an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership.
For purposes of the diversification test in (b) above, the term outstanding voting securities of such issuer will include the equity securities of a qualified publicly traded partnership. Also, for purposes of the diversification test in (b) above, the identification of the
issuer (or, in some cases, issuers) of a particular Portfolio investment can depend on the terms and conditions of that investment. In some cases, identification of the issuer (or issuers) is uncertain under current law, and an adverse determination or future guidance by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) with respect to issuer identification for a particular type of investment may adversely affect a Funds ability to meet the diversification test in (b) above.
If a Fund qualifies as a RIC that is accorded special tax treatment, the Fund will not be subject to federal income tax on income or gains distributed in a timely manner to its shareholders in the form of dividends (including Capital Gain Dividends, as defined below). If a Fund were to fail to meet the income, diversification or distribution test described above, the Fund could in some cases cure such
40
failure, including by paying a Fund-level tax, paying interest or disposing of certain assets. If such Fund were ineligible to or otherwise did not cure such failure for any year, or if such Fund were otherwise to fail to qualify as a RIC accorded special tax treatment in any taxable year, the Fund would be subject to tax at the Fund level on its taxable income at corporate rates, and all distributions from earnings and profits, including any distributions of net tax-exempt income and net capital gains (each as defined below), would be taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. Some portions of such distributions may be eligible for the dividends-received deduction in the case of corporate shareholders and may be eligible to be treated as qualified dividend income in the case of shareholders taxed as individuals, provided, in both cases, the shareholder meets certain holding period and other requirements in respect of a Funds shares (as described below). In addition, a Fund could be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial taxes and interest and make substantial distributions before re-qualifying as a RIC that is accorded special tax treatment.
Each Fund intends to distribute at least annually to its shareholders all or substantially all of its investment company taxable income (computed without regard to the dividends-paid deduction) and its net tax-exempt income (if any), and may distribute its net capital gain (that is, the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss, in each case determined with reference to any loss carryforwards). Any taxable income retained by a Fund will be subject to tax at the Fund level at regular corporate rates. If a Fund retains any net capital gain, it will be subject to tax at regular corporate rates on the amount retained, but is permitted to designate the retained amount as undistributed capital gain in a timely notice to its shareholders who (a) will be required to include in income for federal income tax purposes, as long-term capital gain, their shares of such undistributed amount, and (b) will be entitled to credit their proportionate shares of the tax paid by the Fund on such undistributed amount against their federal income tax liabilities, if any, and to claim refunds on a properly-filed U.S. tax return to the extent the credit exceeds such liabilities. If a Fund makes this designation, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the tax basis of shares owned by a shareholder of the Fund will be increased by an amount equal under current law to the difference between the amount of undistributed capital gains included in the shareholders gross income under clause (a) of the preceding sentence and the tax deemed paid by the shareholder under clause (b) of the preceding sentence. The Funds are not required to, and there can be no assurance a Fund will, make this designation if it retains all or a portion of its net capital gain in a taxable year.
In determining its net capital gain, including in connection with determining the amount available to support a Capital Gain Dividend (as defined below), its taxable income, and its earnings and profits, a RIC generally may elect to treat part or all of any post-October capital loss (defined as any net capital loss attributable to the portion, if any, of the taxable year after October 31, or, if there is no such loss, the net long-term capital loss or net short-term capital loss attributable to any such portion of the taxable year) or late-year ordinary loss (generally, the sum of its (i) net ordinary loss, if any, from the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of property, attributable to the portion, if any, of the taxable year after October 31, and (ii) other net ordinary loss, if any, attributable to the portion, if any, of the taxable year after December 31) as if incurred in the succeeding taxable year.
If a Fund were to fail to distribute in a calendar year at least an amount equal, in general, to the sum of 98% of its ordinary income for such year and 98.2% of its capital gain net income for the one-year period ending October 31 of such year (or a later date if the Fund is eligible to elect and so elects), plus any such amounts retained from the prior year, the Fund would be subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax on the undistributed amounts. For purposes of the required excise tax distribution, a RICs ordinary gains and losses from the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of property that would otherwise be taken into account after October 31 of a calendar year (or a later date, if the RIC makes the election referred to above) generally are treated as arising on January 1 of the following calendar year. Also, for these purposes, a Fund will be treated as having distributed any amount on which it is subject to corporate income tax for the taxable year ending within the calendar year. Each Fund intends generally to make distributions sufficient to avoid imposition of the excise tax, although there can be no assurance that it will be able to do so. Distributions declared by a Fund during October, November and December to shareholders of record on a date in any such month and paid by the Fund during the following January will be treated for federal tax purposes as paid by the Fund and received by shareholders on December 31 of the year in which declared.
Capital losses in excess of capital gains (net capital losses) are not permitted to be deducted against a Funds net investment income. Instead, potentially subject to certain limitations, the Fund may carry net capital losses from any taxable year forward to subsequent taxable years to offset capital gains, if any, realized during such subsequent taxable years. Distributions from capital gains are generally made after applying any available capital loss carryforwards. Capital loss carryforwards are reduced to the extent they offset current-year net realized capital gains, whether the Fund retains or distributes such gains. If a Fund incurs or has incurred net capital losses in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 (post-2010 losses), those losses will be carried forward to one or more subsequent taxable years without expiration to offset capital gains realized during such subsequent taxable years; any such carryforward losses will retain their character as short-term or long-term. If a Fund incurred net capital losses in a taxable year beginning on or before December 22, 2010 (pre-2011 losses), the Fund is permitted to carry such losses forward for eight taxable years; in the year to which they are carried forward, such losses are treated as short-term capital losses that first offset any short-term capital gains, and then offset any long-term capital gains. A Fund must use any post-2010 losses, which will not expire, before it uses
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any pre-2011 losses. This increases the likelihood that pre-2011 losses will expire unused at the conclusion of the eight-year carryforward period. A Funds ability to use net capital losses to offset gains may be limited as a result of certain (a) acquisitive reorganizations and (b) shifts in the ownership of the Fund by a shareholder owning or treated as owning 5% or more of the stock of the Fund. See a Funds most recent annual shareholder report for the Funds available capital loss carryovers as of the end of its most recently ended fiscal year.
Taxation of Distributions Received by Shareholders
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, distributions of investment income are generally taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains are determined by how long a Portfolio has owned (or is deemed to have owned) the investments that generated them, rather than how long a Fund has held its interest in the Portfolio or a shareholder has owned his or her Fund shares. In general, a Fund will recognize long-term capital gain or loss on the disposition of assets a Portfolio has owned (or is deemed to have owned) for more than one year, and short-term capital gain or loss on the disposition of investments a Portfolio has owned (or is deemed to have owned) for one year or less. Distributions of net-capital gain (that is, the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss) that are properly reported by a Fund as capital gain dividends (Capital Gain Dividends) generally will be taxable to a shareholder receiving such distributions as long-term capital gains includible in net capital gain and taxed to individuals at reduced rates relative to ordinary income. Distributions from capital gains are generally made after applying any available capital loss carryovers. The Funds do not expect to distribute Capital Gain Dividends. Distributions of net short-term capital gain (as reduced by any net long-term capital loss for the taxable year) will be taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. Distributions of investment income properly reported by a Fund and, in the case of a Fund investing in a Portfolio treated as a RIC, the Portfolio, as derived from qualified dividend income will be taxed in the hands of individuals at the rates applicable to net capital gain, provided holding period and other requirements are met at the shareholder, the Portfolio and, in the case of a Fund investing in a Portfolio treated as a RIC, the Fund level. The Funds do not expect Fund distributions to be derived from qualified dividend income.
The Code generally imposes a 3.8% Medicare contribution tax on the net investment income of certain individuals, trusts and estates to the extent their income exceeds certain threshold amounts. For these purposes, net investment income generally includes, among other things, (i) distributions paid by the Fund of net investment income and capital gains, and (ii) any net gain from the sale, redemption, exchange other taxable disposition of Fund shares. Shareholders are advised to consult their tax advisors regarding the possible implications of this additional tax on their investment in a Fund.
Shareholders of a Fund will be subject to federal income taxes as described herein on distributions made by the Fund whether received in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the Fund.
If a Fund makes a distribution to a shareholder in excess of the Funds current and accumulated earnings and profits in any taxable year, the excess distribution will be treated as a return of capital to the extent of such shareholders tax basis in its shares, and thereafter as capital gain. A return of capital is not taxable, but it reduces a shareholders tax basis in its shares, thus reducing any loss or increasing any gain on a subsequent taxable disposition by the shareholder of its shares.
Distributions with respect to a Funds shares are generally subject to U.S. federal income tax as described herein to the extent they do not exceed the Funds realized income and gains, even though such distributions may economically represent a return of a particular shareholders investment. Such distributions are likely to occur in respect of shares purchased at a time when a Funds net asset value reflects either unrealized gains, or realized but undistributed income or gains, that were therefore included in the price the shareholder paid. Such distributions may reduce the fair market value of the Funds shares below the shareholders cost basis in those shares. As described above, a Fund is required to distribute realized income and gains regardless of whether the Funds net asset value also reflects unrealized losses.
In order for some portion of the dividends received by a Fund shareholder to be qualified dividend income, the corresponding Portfolio must meet holding period and other requirements with respect to the dividend-paying stocks held by the Portfolio, the shareholder must meet holding period and other requirements with respect to the Funds shares, and in the case of a Fund investing in a Portfolio treated as a RIC, the Fund must meet holding period and other requirements with respect to its shares in the Portfolio. In general, a dividend will not be treated as qualified dividend income (at any of the Portfolio, Fund or shareholder level, as applicable) (a) if the dividend is received with respect to any share of stock held for fewer than 61 days during the 121-day period beginning on the date which is 60 days before the date on which such share becomes ex-dividend with respect to such dividend (or, in the case of
certain preferred stock, 91 days during the 181-day period beginning 90 days before such date), (b) to the extent that the recipient is under an obligation (whether pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property, (c) if the recipient elects to have the dividend income treated as investment income for purposes of the limitation on deductibility of investment interest, or (d) if the dividend is received from a foreign corporation that is (i) not eligible for
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the benefits of a comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States (with the exception of dividends paid on stock of such a foreign corporation readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States) or (ii) treated as a passive foreign investment company.
In general, distributions of investment income properly reported by a Fund as derived from qualified dividend income will be treated as qualified dividend income in the hands of a shareholder taxed as an individual, provided the shareholder meets the holding period and other requirements described above with respect to the Funds shares. If the aggregate qualified dividends (a) allocated to a Fund by a Portfolio that is treated as a partnership or (b) received by a Fund from a Portfolio that is treated as a RIC, during any taxable year are 95% or more of the Funds gross income (excluding net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss), then 100% of the Funds dividends (other than dividends properly reported as Capital Gain Dividends) will be eligible to be treated as qualified dividend income.
In general, dividends of net investment income received by corporate shareholders of a Fund will qualify for the 70% dividends-received deduction generally available to corporations to the extent of the amount of eligible (a) dividends from domestic corporations received by a Portfolio (a) that is treated as a partnership and allocated to the Fund, or (b) that is treated as a RIC and in turn paid by the Portfolio to the Fund for the taxable year. A dividend so allocated or paid to a Fund will not be treated as a dividend eligible for the dividends-received deduction (at any of the Portfolio, Fund or shareholder level, as applicable) (a) if it has been received with respect to any share of stock that the Portfolio has held for less than 46 days (91 days in the case of certain preferred stock) during the 91-day period beginning on the date which is 45 days before the date on which such share becomes ex-dividend with respect to such dividend (during the 181-day period beginning 90 days before such date in the case of certain preferred stock) or (b) to the extent that the Portfolio is under an obligation (pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property. Moreover, a Fund that invests in a corresponding Portfolio that is treated as a RIC must meet similar requirements with respect to its shares of the corresponding Portfolio. Finally, the dividends received deduction may otherwise be disallowed or reduced (x) if the corporate shareholder fails to satisfy the foregoing requirements with respect to its shares of the Fund or (y) by application of various provisions of the Code (for instance, the dividends-received deduction is reduced in the case of a dividend received on debt-financed portfolio stock (generally, stock acquired with borrowed funds)). The Funds do not expect Fund distributions to be eligible for the dividends-received deduction.
Any distribution of income that is attributable to (a) income received by a Portfolio in lieu of dividends with respect to Portfolio securities on loan pursuant to a securities lending transaction or (b) dividend income received by a Portfolio on securities it temporarily purchased from a counterparty pursuant to a repurchase agreement that is treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a loan by the Fund, will not constitute qualified dividend income to individual shareholders and will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders.
If a Fund holds, directly or indirectly, one or more tax credit bonds on one or more applicable dates during a taxable year, the Fund may elect to permit its shareholders to claim a tax credit on their income tax returns equal to each shareholders proportionate share of tax credits from the bond otherwise allowed to the Fund. In such a case, shareholders must include in gross income (as interest) their proportionate share of the income attributable to the tax credits. A shareholders ability to claim a tax credit associated with one or more tax credit bonds may be subject to certain limitations imposed by the Code, and the amount of the tax credits may not exceed the amount reported by the Fund in a written notice to shareholders. Even if a Fund is eligible to pass through tax credits to shareholders, the Fund may choose not to do so.
Tax Considerations Applicable to Funds Investing in Portfolios Treated as Partnerships
Certain Funds invest substantially all of their investable assets in a corresponding Portfolio that is treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In such cases the nature and character of each such Funds income, gains, losses and deductions will generally be determined at the Portfolio level and each such Fund will be allocated its share of Portfolio income and gains. As applicable, references to income, gains, losses and deductions of a Fund will be to income, gains and losses recognized and deductions accruing at the Portfolio level and allocated to or otherwise taken into account by the Fund, and references to assets of a Fund will be to the Funds allocable share of the assets of the corresponding Portfolio.
Such a Fund may be required to redeem a portion of its interest in a Portfolio in order to obtain sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions to maintain its qualification for treatment as a RIC. The Portfolio in turn may be required to sell investments in order to meet such redemption requests, including at a time when it may not be advantageous to do so.
In addition, in certain circumstances, the wash sale rules under Section 1091 of the Code may apply to the Funds sales of the corresponding Portfolio interests that have generated losses. A wash sale occurs if equity interests of an issuer are sold by a Fund at a
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loss and the Fund acquires additional interests of that same issuer 30 days before or after the date of the sale. The wash-sale rules could defer losses in a Funds hands on corresponding interests in a Portfolio (to the extent such sales are wash sales) for extended (and, in certain cases, potentially indefinite) periods of time.
Tax Considerations Applicable to Funds Investing in Portfolios Treated as RICs
The following considerations are relevant to shareholders of Funds that invest substantially all of their assets in a corresponding Portfolio that intends to elect to be treated and to qualify and be eligible to be treated each year as a RIC.
Substantially all of such a Funds income will result from distributions or deemed distributions from the corresponding Portfolio. Additionally, whether a Fund will meet the asset diversification test described above will depend on whether the corresponding Portfolio meets such test. If a Portfolio were to fail to meet the income, diversification or distribution test and were ineligible to or otherwise were not to cure such failure, the corresponding Fund would as a result itself fail to meet the asset diversification test and may be ineligible or unable to or may otherwise not cure such failure.
Because each Fund invests substantially all of their assets in shares of the corresponding Portfolio, its distributable income and gains will normally consist substantially of distributions from the corresponding Portfolio. To the extent that a Portfolio realizes net losses on its investments for a given taxable year, the corresponding Fund will not be able to benefit from those losses until, and only to the extent that (i) the Portfolio realizes gains that it can reduce by those losses, or (ii) the Fund recognizes its share of those losses when it disposes of shares of the Portfolio in a transaction qualifying for sale or exchange treatment. Moreover, even when a Fund does make such a disposition, any loss will be recognized as a capital loss, a portion of which may be a long-term capital loss. The Funds will not be able to offset any capital losses from its dispositions of shares of the corresponding Portfolio against its ordinary income (including distributions of any net short-term capital gains realized by a Portfolio), and the Funds long-term capital losses first offset its long-term capital gains, increasing the likelihood that the Funds short-term capital gains are distributed to shareholders as ordinary income.
As described above, the wash-sale rules could defer losses in a Funds hands on corresponding Portfolio shares (to the extent such sales are wash sales) for extended (and, in certain cases, potentially indefinite) periods of time.
In addition, in certain circumstances, the wash sale rules under Section 1091 of the Code may apply to the Funds sales of the corresponding Portfolio shares that have generated losses. A wash sale occurs if shares of an issuer are sold by a Fund at a loss and the Fund acquires additional shares of that same issuer 30 days before or after the date of the sale. The wash-sale rules could defer losses in a Funds hands on corresponding Portfolio shares (to the extent such sales are wash sales) for extended (and, in certain cases, potentially indefinite) periods of time.
If a Portfolio receives dividends from a mutual fund, an ETF or another company that qualifies as a RIC (each an investment company) and the investment company reports such dividends as qualified dividend income, then the Portfolio is permitted, in turn, to report a portion of its distributions as qualified dividend income, provided the Portfolio meets the holding period and other requirements with respect to shares of the investment company.
If a Portfolio receives dividends from an investment company and the investment company reports such dividends as eligible for the dividends-received deduction, then the Portfolio is permitted, in turn, to report a portion of its distributions as eligible for the dividends-received deduction, provided the Portfolio meets the holding period and other requirements with respect to shares of the investment company.
The foregoing rules may cause the tax treatments of a Funds gains, losses and distributions to differ at times from the tax treatment that would apply if the Fund invested directly in the types of securities held by the corresponding Portfolio. As a result, investors may receive taxable distributions earlier and recognize higher amounts of capital gain or ordinary income than they otherwise would.
As applicable, references to the U.S. federal income tax treatment of the Funds, including to the assets owned and the income earned by the Funds, will be to or will include such treatment of the corresponding Portfolio, and, as applicable, the assets owned and the income earned by the corresponding Portfolio.
Tax Implications of Certain Portfolio Investments
Special Rules for Debt Obligations . Some debt obligations with a fixed maturity date of more than one year from the date of issuance (and zero-coupon debt obligations with a fixed maturity date of more than one year from the date of issuance) will be treated as debt obligations that are issued originally at a discount. Generally, original issue discount (OID) is treated as interest income and is
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included in the Portfolios income and required to be distributed by the Portfolio over the term of the debt security, even though payment of that amount is not received until a later time, upon partial or full repayment or disposition of the debt security. In addition, payment-in-kind securities will give rise to income which is required to be distributed and is taxable even though the Portfolio holding the security receives no interest payment in cash on the security during the year.
Some debt obligations with a fixed maturity date of more than one year from the date of issuance that are acquired by a Portfolio in the secondary market may be treated as having market discount. Very generally, market discount is the excess of the stated
redemption price of a debt obligation (or in the case of an obligation issued with OID, its revised issue price) over the purchase price of such obligation. Generally, any gain recognized on the disposition of, and any partial payment of principal on, a debt security having market discount is treated as ordinary income to the extent the gain, or principal payment, does not exceed the accrued market discount on such debt security. Alternatively, a Portfolio may elect to accrue market discount currently, in which case the Portfolio will be required to include the accrued market discount in the Portfolios income (as ordinary income) and thus distribute it over the term of the debt security, even though payment of that amount is not received until a later time, upon partial or full repayment or disposition of the debt security. The rate at which the market discount accrues, and thus is included in a Portfolios income, will depend upon which of the permitted accrual methods the Portfolio elects.
If the Portfolio holds the foregoing kinds of obligations, or other debt obligations subject to special rules under the Code, it may be required to pay out as an income distribution each year an amount which is greater than the total amount of cash interest the Portfolio actually received. Such distributions may be made from the cash assets of the Portfolio or, if necessary, by disposition of portfolio securities including at a time when it may not be advantageous to do so. These dispositions may cause the Portfolio to realize higher amounts of short-term capital gains (generally taxed to shareholders at ordinary income tax rates) and, in the event the Portfolio realizes net capital gains from such transactions, its shareholders may receive a larger Capital Gain Dividend than they would have if the Portfolio had not held such obligations.
Securities Purchased at a Premium . Very generally, where a Portfolio purchases a bond at a price that exceeds the redemption price at maturity that is, at a premium the premium is amortizable over the remaining term of the bond. In the case of a taxable bond, if a Portfolio makes an election applicable to all such bonds it purchases, which election is irrevocable without consent of the IRS, the Portfolio reduces the current taxable income from the bond by the amortized premium and reduces its tax basis in the bond by the amount of such offset; upon the disposition or maturity of such bonds acquired on or after January 4, 2013, the Portfolio is permitted to deduct any remaining premium allocable to a prior period.
A portion of the OID accrued on certain high yield discount obligations may not be deductible to the issuer and will instead be treated as a dividend paid by the issuer for purposes of the dividends received deduction. In such cases, if the issuer of the high yield discount obligations is a domestic corporation, dividend payments by a Portfolio may be eligible for the dividends received deduction to the extent attributable to the deemed dividend portion of such OID.
At-risk or Defaulted Securities . Investments in debt obligations that are at risk of or in default present special tax issues for a Portfolio. Tax rules are not entirely clear about issues such as when a Portfolio may cease to accrue interest, OID or market discount; whether, when or to what extent a Portfolio should recognize market discount on a debt obligation; when and to what extent a Portfolio may take deductions for bad debts or worthless securities; and how a Portfolio should allocate payments received on obligations in default between principal and income. These and other related issues will be addressed by a Portfolio when, as and if it invests in such securities, in order to seek to ensure that it distributes sufficient income to preserve its status as a RIC and does not become subject to U.S. federal income or excise tax.
Certain Investments in Mortgage Pooling Vehicles . A Portfolio may invest directly or indirectly in residual interests in real estate mortgage investment conduits (REMICs) (including by investing in residual interests in collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) with respect to which an election to be treated as a REMIC is in effect) or equity interests in taxable mortgage pools (TMPs). Under a notice issued by the IRS in October 2006 and Treasury regulations that have yet to be issued but may apply retroactively, a portion of a Portfolios income (including income allocated to the Portfolio from certain pass-through entities) that is attributable to a residual interest in a REMIC or an equity interest in a TMP (referred to in the Code as an excess inclusion) will be subject to U.S. federal income tax in all events. This notice also provides, and the regulations are expected to provide, that excess inclusion income of a RIC, such as a Portfolio, will be allocated to shareholders of the RIC in proportion to the dividends received by such shareholders, with the same consequences as if the shareholders held the related interest directly. As a result, a RIC investing in such securities may not be a suitable investment for charitable remainder trusts, as noted below.
In general, excess inclusion income allocated to shareholders (i) cannot be offset by net operating losses (subject to a limited exception for certain thrift institutions), (ii) will constitute unrelated business taxable income (UBTI) to entities (including a
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qualified pension plan, an individual retirement account, a 401(k) plan, a Keogh plan or other tax-exempt entity) subject to tax on UBTI, thereby potentially requiring such an entity that is allocated excess inclusion income, and that otherwise might not be required to file a tax return, to file a tax return and pay tax on such income, and (iii) in the case of a foreign shareholder will not qualify for any reduction in U.S. federal withholding tax. A shareholder will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on such inclusions notwithstanding any exemption from such income tax otherwise available under the Code.
Foreign Currency Transactions . Any transaction by a Portfolio in foreign currencies, foreign currency-denominated debt obligations or certain foreign currency options, futures contracts or forward contracts (or similar instruments) may give rise to ordinary income or
loss to the extent such income or loss results from fluctuations in the value of the foreign currency concerned. Any such net gains could require a larger dividend toward the end of the calendar year. Any such net losses will generally reduce and potentially require the recharacterization of prior ordinary income distributions. Such ordinary income treatment may accelerate Portfolio distributions to shareholders and increase the distributions taxed to shareholders as ordinary income. Any net ordinary losses so created cannot be carried forward by the Portfolio to offset income or gains earned in subsequent taxable years.
Because it is not always possible to identify a foreign corporation as a PFIC, a Portfolio may incur the tax and interest charges described above in some instances.
Options and Futures . In general, option premiums received by a Portfolio are not immediately included in the income of the Portfolio. Instead, the premiums are recognized when the option contract expires, the option is exercised by the holder, or the Portfolio transfers or otherwise terminates the option (e.g., through a closing transaction). If a call option written by a Portfolio is exercised and the Portfolio sells or delivers the underlying stock, the Portfolio generally will recognize capital gain or loss equal to (a) sum of the strike price and the option premium received by the Portfolio minus (b) the Portfolios basis in the stock. Such gain or loss generally will be short-term or long-term depending upon the holding period of the underlying stock. If securities are purchased by a Portfolio pursuant to the exercise of a put option written by it, the Portfolio generally will subtract the premium received for purposes of computing its cost basis in the securities purchased. Gain or loss arising in respect of a termination of a Portfolios obligation under an option other than through the exercise of the option will be short-term gain or loss depending on whether the premium income received by the Portfolio is greater or less than the amount paid by the Portfolio (if any) in terminating the transaction. Thus, for example, if an option written by a Portfolio expires unexercised, the Portfolio generally will recognize short-term gain equal to the premium received.
A Portfolios options activities may include transactions constituting straddles for U.S. federal income tax purposes, that is, that trigger the U.S. federal income tax straddle rules contained primarily in Section 1092 of the Code. Such straddles include, for example, positions in a particular security, or an index of securities, and one or more options that offset the former position, including options that are covered by a Portfolios long position in the subject security. Very generally, where applicable, Section 1092 requires (i) that losses be deferred on positions deemed to be offsetting positions with respect to substantially similar or related property, to the extent of unrealized gain in the latter, and (ii) that the holding period of such a straddle position that has not already been held for the long-term holding period be terminated and begin anew once the position is no longer part of a straddle. Options on single stocks that are not deep in the money may constitute qualified covered calls, which generally are not subject to the straddle rules; the holding period on stock underlying qualified covered calls that are in the money although not deep in the money will be suspended during the period that such calls are outstanding. Thus, the straddle rules and the rules governing qualified covered calls could cause gains that would otherwise constitute long-term capital gains to be treated as short-term capital gains, and distributions that would otherwise constitute qualified dividend income or qualify for the dividends-received deduction to fail to satisfy the holding period requirements and therefore to be taxed as ordinary income or fail to qualify for the 70% dividends-received deduction, as the case may be.
The tax treatment of certain positions entered into by a Fund, including regulated futures contracts, certain foreign currency positions and certain listed non-equity options, will be governed by section 1256 of the Code (section 1256 contracts). Gains or losses on section 1256 contracts generally are considered 60% long-term and 40% short-term capital gains or losses (60/40), although certain foreign currency gains and losses from such contracts may be treated as ordinary in character. Also, section 1256 contracts held by a Portfolio at the end of each taxable year (and, for purposes of the 4% excise tax, on certain other dates as prescribed under the Code) are marked to market with the result that unrealized gains or losses are treated as though they were realized and the resulting gain or loss is treated as ordinary or 60/40 gain or loss, as applicable.
Derivatives, Hedging, and Related Transactions . In addition to the special rules described above in respect of futures and options transactions, a Portfolios transactions in other derivative instruments (e.g., forward contracts and swap agreements), as well as any of its hedging, short sale, securities loan or similar transactions, may be subject to one or more special tax rules (e.g., notional principal contract, straddle, constructive sale, wash sale and short sale rules). These rules may affect whether gains and losses recognized by a Portfolio are treated as ordinary or capital, accelerate the recognition of income or gains to the Portfolio, defer losses to the Portfolio, and cause adjustments in the holding periods of the Portfolios securities, thereby affecting whether capital gains and losses are treated as short-term or long-term. These rules could therefore affect the amount, timing and/or character of distributions to shareholders.
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Because these and other tax rules applicable to these types of transactions are in some cases uncertain under current law, an adverse determination or future guidance by the IRS with respect to these rules (which determination or guidance could be retroactive) may affect whether a Portfolio has made sufficient distributions, and otherwise satisfied the relevant requirements, to maintain its qualification as a RIC and avoid a Portfolio-level tax.
Book-Tax Differences . Certain of a Portfolios investments in derivative instruments and foreign currency-denominated instruments, and any of the Portfolios transactions in foreign currencies and hedging activities, are likely to produce a difference between its book income and the sum of its taxable income and net tax-exempt income (if any). If such a difference arises, and a Portfolios book
income is less than the sum of its taxable income and net tax-exempt income, a Portfolio that intends to be treated as a RIC could be required to make distributions exceeding book income to qualify as a RIC that is accorded special tax treatment and to avoid an entity-level tax. In the alternative, if a Portfolios book income exceeds the sum of its taxable income (including realized capital gains) and net tax-exempt income, the distribution (if any) of such excess generally will be treated as (i) a dividend to the extent of the Portfolios remaining earnings and profits (including earnings and profits arising from tax-exempt income), (ii) thereafter, as a return of capital to the extent of the recipients basis in its shares, and (iii) thereafter as gain from the sale or exchange of a capital asset.
Foreign Taxation
Income received by a Fund from sources within foreign countries may be subject to withholding and other foreign taxes. Tax conventions between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes. It is not feasible to determine the effective rate of foreign tax in advance since the amount of a Funds assets to be invested in various countries (if any) will vary.
Backup Withholding
A Fund generally is required to withhold and remit to the U.S. Treasury a percentage of the taxable distributions and redemption proceeds paid to any individual shareholder who fails to properly furnish the Fund with a correct taxpayer identification number (TIN), who has under- reported dividend or interest income, or who fails to certify to the Fund that he or she is not subject to such withholding. The backup withholding rate is 28%.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld may be credited against the shareholders U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the appropriate information is furnished to the IRS.
Tax-Exempt Shareholders
Income of a RIC that would be unrelated business taxable income (UBTI) if earned directly by a tax-exempt entity will not generally constitute UBTI when distributed to a tax-exempt shareholder of the RIC. Notwithstanding this blocking effect, a tax-exempt shareholder could realize UBTI by virtue of its investment in a Fund if shares in the Fund constitute debt-financed property in the hands of the tax-exempt shareholder within the meaning of Code Section 514(b).
A tax-exempt shareholder may also recognize UBTI if a Fund recognizes excess inclusion income derived from direct or indirect investments in residual interests in REMICS or equity interests in TMPs if the amount of such income recognized by the Fund exceeds the Funds investment company taxable income (after taking into account deductions for dividends paid by the Fund).
In addition, special tax consequences apply to charitable remainder trusts (CRTs) that invest in RICs that invest directly or indirectly in residual interests in REMICs or equity interests in TMPs. Under legislation enacted in December 2006, a CRT (as defined in section 664 of the Code) that realizes any UBTI for a taxable year must pay an excise tax annually of an amount equal to such UBTI. Under IRS guidance issued in October 2006, a CRT will not recognize UBTI as a result of investing in a RIC that recognizes excess inclusion income. Rather, if at any time during any taxable year a CRT (or one of certain other tax-exempt shareholders, such as the United States, a state or political subdivision, or an agency or instrumentality thereof, and certain energy cooperatives) is a record holder of a share in a RIC that recognizes excess inclusion income, then the RIC will be subject to a tax on that portion of its excess inclusion income for the taxable year that is allocable to such shareholders at the highest federal corporate income tax rate. The extent to which this IRS guidance remains applicable in light of the December 2006 legislation is unclear. To the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, each Fund may elect to specially allocate any such tax to the applicable CRT, or other shareholder, and thus reduce such shareholders distributions for the year by the amount of the tax that relates to such shareholders interest in each Fund. CRTs are urged to consult their tax advisors concerning the consequences of investing in each Fund.
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Redemptions and Exchanges
Redemptions and exchanges of each Funds shares are taxable events and, accordingly, shareholders may realize gain or loss on these transactions. In general, any gain or loss realized upon a taxable disposition of shares will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than 12 months. Otherwise, the gain or loss on the taxable disposition of Fund shares will be treated as short-term capital gain or loss. However, any loss realized upon a taxable disposition of Fund shares held by a shareholder for six months or less will be treated as long-term, rather than short-term, to the extent of any Capital Gain Dividends received (or deemed received) by the shareholder with respect to the shares. Further, subject to the discussion below regarding money market funds, all or a portion of any loss realized upon a taxable disposition of Fund shares will generally be disallowed under the Codes wash-sale rule if other substantially identical shares are purchased, including by means of dividend reinvestment, within 30 days before or after the disposition. In such a case, the basis of the newly purchased shares will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.
The IRS has issued final regulations and published guidance that permit a simplified method of accounting for gains and losses realized upon the disposition of shares of a regulated investment company that is a money market fund. Very generally, rather than realizing gain or loss upon each redemption of a share, a shareholder of a money market fund using such method of accounting will recognize gain or loss with respect to such a Funds shares for a given computation period (the shareholders taxable year or shorter period selected by the shareholder) equal to the value of all the Fund shares held by the shareholder on the last day of the computation period, less the value of all Fund shares held by the shareholder on the last day of the preceding computation period, less the shareholders net investment in the Fund (generally, purchases minus redemptions) made during the computation period. The IRS has also published guidance providing that the wash-sale of the Codedisallowing losses on taxable dispositions of Fund shares where other substantially identical shares are purchased, including by means of dividend reinvestment, within 30 days before or after the dispositionwill not apply to redemptions of shares in a so-called floating NAV money market fund, such as the 60 Day Fund, the Liquid Assets Fund and, as of October 12, 2016, the ILR Fund. The proposed regulations and IRS guidance remain subject to change. Shareholders of a Fund are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding their investment in the Fund.
Upon the redemption or exchange of shares of a Fund, the Fund or, in the case of shares purchased through a financial intermediary, the financial intermediary may be required to provide you and the IRS with cost basis and certain other related tax information about the Fund shares you redeemed or exchanged. See the Funds prospectuses for more information.
Tax Shelter Reporting
Under Treasury regulations, if a shareholder recognizes a loss of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate shareholder, the shareholder must file with the IRS a disclosure statement on IRS 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 RICs. The fact that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of whether the taxpayers treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual circumstances.
Non-U.S. Investors
Non-U.S. shareholders in the Fund should consult their tax advisors concerning the tax consequences of ownership of shares in the Fund. Distributions by the Fund to shareholders that are not U.S. persons within the meaning of the Code ( foreign shareholders) properly reported by the Fund as (1) Capital Gain Dividends, (2) short-term capital gain dividends, and (3) interest-related dividends, each as defined and subject to certain conditions described below, generally are not subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax.
In general, the Code defines (1) short-term capital gain dividends as distributions of net short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term capital losses and (2) interest-related dividends as distributions from U.S.-source interest income of types similar to those not subject to U.S. federal income tax if earned directly by an individual foreign shareholder, in each case to the extent such distributions are properly reported as such by the Fund in a written notice to shareholders.
The exceptions to withholding for Capital Gain Dividends and short-term capital gain dividends do not apply to (A) distributions to an individual foreign shareholder who is present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the year of the distribution and (B) distributions attributable to gain that is treated as effectively connected with the conduct by the foreign shareholder of a trade or business within the United States under special rules regarding the disposition of U.S. real property interests as described below. If the Fund invests in a RIC that pays such distributions to the Fund, such distributions retain their character as not subject to withholding if properly reported when paid by the Fund to foreign shareholders. The exception to withholding for interest-
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related dividends does not apply to distributions to a foreign shareholder (i) that has not provided a satisfactory statement that the beneficial owner is not a U.S. person, (ii) to the extent that the dividend is attributable to certain interest on an obligation if the foreign shareholder is the issuer or is a 10% shareholder of the issuer, (iii) that is within certain foreign countries that have inadequate information exchange with the United States, or (iv) to the extent the dividend is attributable to interest paid by a person that is a related person of the foreign shareholder and the foreign shareholder is a controlled foreign corporation). A RIC is permitted to report such parts of its dividends as are eligible to be treated as interest-related or short-term capital gain dividends, but is not required to do so. In the case of shares held through an intermediary, the intermediary may withhold even if the Fund reports all or a portion of a payment as an interest-related or short-term capital gain dividend to shareholders.
Foreign shareholders should contact their intermediaries regarding the application of withholding rules to their accounts.
Distributions by a Fund to foreign shareholders other than Capital Gain Dividends, short-term capital gain dividends and interest related dividends (e.g., dividends attributable to dividend and foreign source interest income or to short-term capital gains or U.S. source interest income to which the exception from withholding described above does not apply) are generally subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax at a rate of 30% (or lower applicable treaty rate).
A foreign shareholder is not, in general, subject to U.S. federal income tax on gains (and is not allowed a deduction for losses) realized on the sale of shares of a Fund unless (a) such gain is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business carried on by such holder within the United States, (b) in the case of an individual holder, the holder is present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the year of the sale and certain other conditions are met, or (c) the special rules relating to gain attributable to the sale or exchange of U.S. real property interests (USRPIs) apply to the foreign shareholders sale of shares of the Fund (as described below).
Foreign shareholders with respect to whom income from a Fund is effectively connected with a trade or business conducted by the foreign person within the United States will in general be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the income derived from the Fund at the graduated rates applicable to U.S. citizens, residents or domestic corporations, whether such income is received in cash or reinvested in shares of the Fund and, in the case of a foreign corporation, may also be subject to a branch profits tax. If a foreign shareholder is eligible for the benefits of a tax treaty, any effectively connected income or gain will generally be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net basis only if it is also attributable to a permanent establishment maintained by the shareholder in the United States. More generally, foreign shareholders who are residents in a country with an income tax treaty with the United States may obtain different tax results than those described herein, and are urged to consult their tax advisors.
Special rules would apply if a Fund were a qualified investment entity (QIE) because it is either a U.S. real property holding corporation (USRPHC) or would be a USRPHC but for the operation of certain exceptions to the definition thereof. Very generally, a USRPHC is a domestic corporation that holds USRPIs the fair market value of which equals or exceeds 50% of the sum of the fair market values of the corporations USRPIs, interests in real property located outside the United States, and other trade or business assets. USRPIs are generally defined as any interest in U.S. real property and any interest (other than solely as a creditor) in a USRPHC or, very generally, an entity that has been a USRPHC in the last five years. A Fund that holds, directly or indirectly, significant interests in REITs may be a USRPHC. Interests in domestically controlled QIEs, including REITs and RICs that are QIEs, not-greater-than-10% interests in publicly traded classes of stock in REITs and not-greater-than-5% interests in publicly traded classes of stock in RICs generally are not USRPIs, but these exceptions do not apply for purposes of determining whether a Fund is a QIE. If an interest in a Fund were a USRPI, the Fund would be required to withhold U.S. tax on the proceeds of a share redemption by a greater-than-5% foreign shareholder, in which case such foreign shareholder generally would also be required to file U.S. tax returns and pay any additional taxes due in connection with the redemption.
If a Fund were a QIE under a special look-through rule, any distributions by the Fund to a foreign shareholder attributable directly or indirectly to (i) distributions received by the Fund from a lower-tier REIT that the Fund is required to treat as USRPI gain in its hands and (ii) gains realized on the disposition of USRPIs by the Fund, would retain their character as gains realized from USRPIs in the hands of the Funds foreign shareholders and would be subject to U.S. tax withholding. In addition, such distributions could result in the foreign shareholder being required to file a U.S. tax return and pay tax on the distributions at regular U.S. federal income tax rates. The consequences to a foreign shareholder, including the rate of such withholding and character of such distributions (e.g., as ordinary income or USRPI gain), would vary depending upon the extent of the foreign shareholders current and past ownership of the Fund. Each Fund generally does not expect that it will be a QIE.
Foreign shareholders should consult their tax advisers and, if holding shares through intermediaries, their intermediaries, concerning the application of these rules to their investment in a Fund.
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In order for a foreign shareholder to qualify for any exemptions from withholding described above or from lower withholding tax rates under income tax treaties, or to establish an exemption from back back-up withholding, the foreign shareholder must comply with special certification and filing requirements relating to its non-U.S. status (including, in general, furnishing an IRS Form W-8BEN, W-8 BEN-E, or substitute form). Non-U.S. investors in the Funds should consult their tax advisers in this regard.
Special rules (including withholding and reporting requirements) apply to foreign partnerships and those holding Fund shares through foreign partnerships. Additional considerations may apply to foreign trusts and estates. Investors holding Fund shares through foreign entities should consult their tax advisers about their particular situation.
A foreign shareholder may be subject to state and local tax and to the U.S. federal estate tax in addition to the U.S. federal income tax on income referred to above.
Shareholder Reporting Obligations With Respect To Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts
Shareholders that are U.S. persons and own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of a Fund by vote or value could be required to report annually their financial interest in the Funds foreign financial accounts, if any, on FinCEN Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR). Shareholders should consult a tax advisor, and persons investing in a Fund through an intermediary should contact their intermediary, regarding the applicability to them of this reporting requirement.
Other Reporting and Withholding Requirements
Sections 1471-1474 of the Code and the U.S. Treasury and IRS guidance issued thereunder (collectively, FATCA) generally require a Fund to obtain information sufficient to identify the status of each of its shareholders under FATCA or under an applicable intergovernmental agreement (an IGA) between the United States and a foreign government. If a shareholder fails to provide the requested information or otherwise fails to comply with FATCA or an IGA, the Fund may be required to withhold under FATCA at a rate of 30% with respect to that shareholder on ordinary dividends it pays and 30% of the gross proceeds of share redemptions or exchanges and certain Capital Gain Dividends it pays on or after January 1, 2017 (which date, under recent Treasury guidance, is expected to be delayed until on or after January 1, 2019). If a payment by a Fund is subject to FATCA withholding, the Fund is required to withhold even if such payment would otherwise be exempt from withholding under the rules applicable to foreign shareholders described above (e.g., Capital Gain Dividends, short-term capital gain dividends and interest-related dividends).
Each prospective investor is urged to consult its tax adviser regarding the applicability of FATCA and any other reporting requirements with respect to the prospective investors own situation, including investments through an intermediary.
General Considerations
The U.S. federal income tax discussion set forth above is for general information only. Prospective investors should consult their tax advisers regarding the specific U.S. federal income tax consequences of purchasing, holding, and disposing of shares of the Fund, as well as the effects of state, local, foreign, and other tax law and any proposed tax law changes.
State Street Global Markets, LLC serves as the Funds Distributor (the Distributor) pursuant to the Distribution Agreement by and between the Distributor and the Trust. Pursuant to the Distribution Agreement, the Funds pay the Distributor fees under the Rule 12b-1 Plan in effect for the Funds. For a description of the fees paid to the Distributor under the Rule 12b-1 Plan, see Shareholder Servicing and Distribution Plans, above. The Distributor is not obligated to sell any specific number of shares and will sell shares of a Fund on a continuous basis only against orders to purchase shares. The principal business address of the Distributor is One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111.
The audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 for the Funds in operation at that date are included in the Annual Report of the Trust (the Annual Report), which was filed with the SEC on March 11, 2015 as part of the Trusts filing on Form N-CSR (SEC Accession No. 0001193125-13-098256) and are incorporated into this SAI by reference. The Annual Report is available, without charge, upon request, by calling (877) 521-4083.
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RATINGS OF DEBT INSTRUMENTS
MOODYS INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. (MOODYS) LONG TERM DEBT RATINGS. The following is a description of Moodys debt instrument ratings.
Aaa Bonds that are rated Aaa are judged to be of the highest quality, with minimal credit risk.
Aa Bonds that are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.
A Bonds that are rated A are considered upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.
Baa Baa rated bonds are considered medium-grade obligations, and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics and are subject to moderate credit risk.
Ba Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements and are subject to substantial credit risk.
B and Lower Bonds which are rated B are considered speculative and are subject to high credit risk. Bonds which are rated
Caa are of poor standing and are subject to very high credit risk. Bonds which are rated Ca represent obligations which are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect of recovery of principal and interest. Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.
Moodys applies numerical modifiers 1, 2 and 3 to each generic rating classification from Aa through Caa. The modifier 1 indicates that the security ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a midrange ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of that generic rating category.
P-1 Moodys short-term ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers (or supporting institutions) to honor short-term financial obligations. Such obligations generally have an original maturity not exceeding thirteen months. The designation Prime-1 or P-1 indicates a superior ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
P-2 Issuers (or supporting institutions) have a strong ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
P-3 Issuers (or supporting institutions) have an acceptable ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
STANDARD & POORS RATING GROUP (S&P). S&Ps ratings are based, in varying degrees, on the following considerations: (i) the likelihood of default capacity and willingness of the obligor as to the timely payment of interest and repayment of principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation; (ii) the nature of and provisions of the obligation; and (iii) the protection afforded by, and relative position of, the obligation in the event of bankruptcy, reorganization, or other arrangement under the laws of bankruptcy and other laws affecting creditors rights.
AAA Bonds rated AAA are highest grade debt obligations. This rating indicates an extremely strong capacity to pay principal and interest.
AA Bonds rated AA also qualify as high-quality obligations. Their capacity to pay principal and interest is very strong, and in the majority of instances they differ from AAA issues only by a small degree.
A Bonds rated A have a strong capacity to pay principal and interest, although they are more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than bonds in higher-rated categories.
BBB Bonds rated BBB exhibit adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and principal.
BB and Lower Bonds rated BB, B, CCC, CC, and C are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics with respect to the issuers capacity to pay interest and principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While such bonds may have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions.
The ratings AA to C may be modified by the addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
A-1- Standard & Poors short-term issue credit ratings are current assessments of the likelihood of timely payments of debt having original maturity of no more than 365 days. The A-1 designation indicates that the capacity for payment is extremely strong.
A-1
A-2- The capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is strong. However, a short-term debt with this rating is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debts in higher rating categories.
Plus (+) or minus (-): The ratings from AA to CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
FITCH RATINGS. (FITCH).
Fitch Ratings cover a global spectrum of corporate, sovereign (including supranational and sub-national), financial, bank, insurance, municipal and other public finance entities and the securities or other obligations they issue.
AAA Highest credit quality. AAA ratings denote the lowest expectation of default risk. They are assigned only in cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.
AA Very high credit quality. AA ratings denote expectations of very low default risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.
A High credit quality. A ratings denote expectations of low default risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.
BBB Good credit quality. BBB ratings indicate that expectations of default risk are currently low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.
BB Speculative BB ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to default risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time; however, business or financial flexibility exists which supports the servicing of financial commitments.
Fitch Ratings appends the modifiers + or - to denote relative status within the major rating categories.
A short-term rating has a time horizon of up to 13 months for most obligations, or up to 36 months for US public finance securities, and thus places greater emphasis on the liquidity necessary to meet financial commitments in a timely manner.
F1. Highest short-term credit quality. Indicates the strongest intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; may have an added + to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.
F2. Good short-term credit quality. A Good intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments.
F3. Fair short-term credit quality. The intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate.
B. Speculative short-term credit quality. Minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus vulnerability to near-term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.
C. High short-term default risk. Default is a real possibility.
D. Default. Indicates a broad-based default event for an entity, or the default of a specific short-term obligation.
E. Restricted Default. Indicates an entity has defaulted on one or more of its financial commitments, although it continues to meet
other financial obligations.
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APPENDIX B
SSGA FUNDS
STATE STREET MASTER FUNDS
STATE STREET INSTITUTIONAL INVESTMENT TRUST
PROXY VOTING POLICY AND PROCEDURES
As of May 20, 2016
The Boards of Trustees of the SSGA Funds, State Street Master Funds, State Street Institutional Investment Trust (each a Trust, and each series thereof, a Fund) 1 have adopted the following policy and procedures with respect to voting proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the Trusts investment portfolios.
1. | Proxy Voting Policy |
The policy of the Trust is to delegate the responsibility for voting proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the Trust to SSGA Funds Management, Inc., the Trusts investment adviser (the Adviser), subject to the Trustees continuing oversight.
2. | Fiduciary Duty |
The right to vote proxies with respect to a portfolio security held by the Trust is an asset of the Trust. The Adviser acts as a fiduciary of the Trust and must vote proxies in a manner consistent with the best interest of the Trust and its shareholders.
3. | Proxy Voting Procedures |
A. At least annually, the Adviser shall present to the Boards of Trustees its policies, procedures and other guidelines for voting proxies (Policy) and the policy of any Subadviser (as defined below) to which proxy voting authority has been delegated (see Section 9 below). In addition, the Adviser shall notify the Trustees of material changes to its Policy or the policy of any Sub-adviser promptly and not later than the next regular meeting of the Board of Trustees after such amendment is implemented.
B. At least annually, the Adviser shall present to the Boards of Trustees its policy for managing conflicts of interests that may arise through the Advisers proxy voting activities. In addition, the Adviser shall report any Policy overrides involving portfolio securities held by a Fund to the Trustees at the next regular meeting of the Board of Trustees after such override(s) occur.
C. At least annually, the Adviser shall inform the Trustees that a record is available with respect to each proxy voted with respect to portfolio securities of the Trust during the year. Also see Section 5 below.
4. | Revocation of Authority to Vote |
The delegation by the Trustees of the authority to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities of the Trust may be revoked by the Trustees, in whole or in part, at any time.
1 | Unless otherwise noted, the singular term Trust used throughout this document means each of SSGA Funds, State Street Master Funds and State Street Institutional Investment Trust. |
5. | Annual Filing of Proxy Voting Record |
The Adviser shall provide the required data for each proxy voted with respect to portfolio securities of the Trust to the Trust or its designated service provider in a timely manner and in a format acceptable to be filed in the Trusts annual proxy voting report on Form N-PX for the twelve-month period ended June 30. Form N-PX is required to be filed not later than August 31 of each year.
6. | Retention and Oversight of Proxy Advisory Firms |
A. In considering whether to retain or continue retaining a particular proxy advisory firm, the Adviser will ascertain whether the proxy advisory firm has the capacity and competency to adequately analyze proxy issues, act as proxy voting agent as requested, and implement the Policy. In this regard, the Adviser will consider, at least annually, among other things, the adequacy and quality of the proxy advisory firms staffing and personnel and the robustness of its policies and procedures regarding its ability to identify and address any conflicts of interest. The Adviser shall, at least annually, report to Boards of Trustees regarding the results of this review.
B. The Adviser will request quarterly and annual reporting from any proxy advisory firm retained by the Adviser, and hold ad hoc meetings with such proxy advisory firm, in order to determine whether there has been any business changes that might impact the proxy advisory firms capacity or competency to provide proxy voting advice or services or changes to the proxy advisory firms conflicts policies or procedures. The Adviser will also take reasonable steps to investigate any material factual error, notified to the Adviser by the proxy advisory firm or identified by the Adviser, made by the proxy advisory firm in providing proxy voting services.
7. | Periodic Sampling |
The Adviser will periodically sample proxy votes to review whether they complied with the Policy. The Adviser shall, at least annually, report to the Boards of Trustees regarding the frequency and results of the sampling performed.
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8. | Disclosures |
A. | The Trust shall include in its registration statement: |
1. A description of this policy and of the policies and procedures used by the Adviser to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities; and
2. A statement disclosing that information regarding how the Trust voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge, upon request, by calling the Trusts toll-free telephone number; or through a specified Internet address; or both; and on the Securities and Exchange Commissions (the SEC) website.
B. | The Trust shall include in its annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders: |
1. A statement disclosing that a description of the policies and procedures used by or on behalf of the Trust to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities of the Funds is available without charge, upon request, by calling the Trusts toll-free telephone number; through a specified Internet address, if applicable; and on the SECs website; and
2. A statement disclosing that information regarding how the Trust voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge, upon request, by calling the Trusts toll-free telephone number; or through a specified Internet address; or both; and on the SECs website.
9. | Sub-Advisers |
For certain Funds, the Adviser may retain investment management firms (Sub-advisers) to provide day-to-day investment management services to the Funds pursuant to sub-advisory agreements. It is the policy of the Trust that the Adviser may delegate proxy voting authority with respect to a Fund to a Sub-adviser. Pursuant to such delegation, a Sub-adviser is authorized to vote proxies on behalf of the applicable Fund or Funds for which it serves as sub-adviser, in accordance with the Sub-advisers proxy voting policies and procedures.
10. | Review of Policy |
The Trustees shall review this policy to determine its continued sufficiency as necessary from time to time.
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APPENDIX C ADVISERS PROXY VOTING PROCEDURES AND GUIDELINES
March 2016
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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FM Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles
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.
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 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
SSGA Funds Management, Inc | 2 |
FM Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles
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.
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.
Proxy Voting Procedure
Oversight
The SSGA 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 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.
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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.
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 dilutive to its shareholders.
Mergers or reorganizing the structure of a company often involve proposals relating to reincorporation, restructurings, 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
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FM Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles
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.
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.
Fixed Income Stewardship
The two elements of SSGA FMs fixed income stewardship program are:
Proxy Voting:
While matters that come up for a vote at bondholder meetings vary by jurisdiction, examples of common proxy voting resolutions at bondholder meetings include:
| Approving amendments to debt covenants and/or terms of issuance; |
| Authorizing procedural matters such as filing of required documents/other formalities; |
| Approving debt restructuring plans; |
| Abstaining from challenging the bankruptcy trustees; |
| Authorizing repurchase of issued debt security; |
| Approving the placement of unissued debt securities under the control of directors; and, |
| Approve spin-off/absorption proposals. |
Given the nature of the items that come up for vote at bondholder meetings, SSGA FM takes a case-by-case approach to voting bondholder resolutions. Where necessary, SSGA FM will engage with issuers on voting matters prior to arriving at voting decisions. All voting decisions will be made in the best interest of our clients.
Issuer Engagement:
SSGA FM recognizes that debt holders have limited leverage with companies on a day-to-day basis. However, we believe that given the size of our holdings in corporate debt, SSGA FM can meaningfully influence ESG practices of companies through issuer engagement. Our guidelines for engagement with fixed income issuers broadly follow the engagement guidelines for our equity holdings as described above.
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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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FM Global Proxy Voting and Engagement Principles
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For Public Use
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 Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano) is a branch of State Street Global Advisors Limited, a company registered in the UK, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA ), with a capital of GBP 71650000.00, and whose registered office is at 20 Churchill Place, London E14 5HJ. State Street Global Advisors Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano), is registered in Italy with company number 06353340968 - R.E.A. 1887090 and VAT number 06353340968 and whose office is at Via dei Bossi, 4 - 20121 Milano, Italy Telephone: 39 02 32066 100 Facsimile: 39 02 32066
155. 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. 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.
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.
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March 2016
Managing Conflicts of Interest Arising From SSGAS Proxy Voting and Engagement Activity
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 Arising From SSGAS Proxy Voting and Engagement Activity
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, serves as a director on the board of a listed company) 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.
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Managing Conflicts of Interest Arising From SSGAS Proxy Voting and Engagement Activity
ssga.com
For Public Use
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 Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano) is a branch of State Street Global Advisors Limited, a company registered in the UK, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA ), with a capital of GBP 71650000.00, and whose registered office is at 20 Churchill Place, London E14 5HJ. State Street Global Advisors Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano), is registered in Italy with company number 06353340968 - R.E.A. 1887090 and VAT number 06353340968 and whose office is at Via dei Bossi, 4 - 20121 Milano, Italy Telephone: 39 02 32066 100 Facsimile: 39 02 32066
155. 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 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.
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© 2016 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved. INST-6331 0316 Exp. Date: 03/31/2017 |
March 2016
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.
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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. |
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
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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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 not been responsive to a shareholder proposal which received a majority shareholder support at the last annual or special meeting; consideration maybe given if 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 bylaws that negatively impact SSGA FMs shareholder rights (such as fee-shifting, forum selection and exclusion service bylaws) 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 by-laws 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
In general, SSGA FM believes that proxy access is a fundamental right and an accountability mechanism for all long-term shareholders. SSGA FM will consider proposals relating to Proxy Access on a case-by-case basis. SSGA FM will support shareholder proposals that set parameters to empower long-term shareholders while providing management the flexibility to design a process that is appropriate for the companys circumstances.
SSGA FM will review the terms of all other proposals and will support those proposals that have been introduced in the spirit of enhancing shareholder rights.
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 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.
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
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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.
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, 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. |
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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 by-laws to add or delete a provision that is deemed to have an anti-takeover 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.
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 by-laws 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 by-laws 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 by-laws 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.
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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.
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 five to eight 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.
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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 by-laws 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 by-laws 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 a voting item; |
| Proposals giving the board exclusive authority to amend the by-laws; 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. |
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
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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. |
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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 Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano) is a branch of State Street Global Advisors Limited, a company registered in the UK, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA ), with a capital of GBP 71650000.00, and whose registered office is at 20 Churchill Place, London E14 5HJ. State Street Global Advisors Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano), is registered in Italy with company number 06353340968 - R.E.A. 1887090 and VAT number 06353340968 and whose office is at Via dei Bossi, 4 - 20121 Milano, Italy Telephone: 39 02 32066 100 Facsimile: 39 02 32066 155. 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.
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March 2016
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.
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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 into 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 FM expects boards of ASX-300 listed companies to be comprised of at least a majority of independent directors. At all other listed companies, SSGA FM expects boards to be comprised of at least one-third independent directors.
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; |
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| 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 Australian 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 and 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.
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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 to 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.
Pre-emption rights are a fundamental right for shareholders to protect their investment in a company. Where companies seeks to issue new shares without 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 repurchase requests that allow share repurchases 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, 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. |
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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
Anti-Takeover Measures
SSGA FM opposes anti-takeover 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 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 Incentive 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
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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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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ssga.com
For Public Use
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 Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano) is a branch of State Street Global Advisors Limited, a company registered in the UK, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA ), with a capital of GBP 71650000.00, and whose registered office is at 20 Churchill Place, London E14 5HJ. State Street Global Advisors Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano), is registered in Italy with company number 06353340968 - R.E.A. 1887090 and VAT number 06353340968 and whose office is at Via dei Bossi, 4 - 20121 Milano, Italy Telephone: 39 02 32066 100 Facsimile: 39 02 32066
155. 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 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.
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© 2016 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved. INST-6456 0316 Exp. Date: 03/31/2017 |
March 2016
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.
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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. |
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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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 favor of the annual election of directors, we recognize that director terms vary considerably in different European markets. SSGA FM may vote against article/by-law 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 and 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, with 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 to 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.
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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.
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 favors 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 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 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.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Mergers or reorganizing the structure of a company often involve proposals relating to reincorporation, restructurings, liquidations, and other major changes to the corporation. Proposals that are in the best interests of the shareholders,
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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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 anti-takeover 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 anti-takeover 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 Incentive 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.
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.
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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
ssga.com
For Public Use
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 Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano) is a branch of State Street Global Advisors Limited, a company registered in the UK, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA ), with a capital of GBP 71650000.00, and whose registered office is at 20 Churchill Place, London E14 5HJ. State Street Global Advisors Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano), is registered in Italy with company number 06353340968 - R.E.A. 1887090 and VAT number 06353340968 and whose office is at Via dei Bossi, 4 - 20121 Milano, Italy Telephone: 39 02 32066 100 Facsimile: 39 02 32066
155. 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 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.
State Street Global Advisors |
© 2016 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved. INST-6457 0316 Exp. Date: 03/31/2017 |
March 2016
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.
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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
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. 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 FM expects companies to meet minimum overall board independence standards as defined in a corporate governance code or market practice. Therefore, in several countries, SSGA FM will vote against select non-independent directors if overall board independence levels do not meet market standards.
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. |
In some countries, market practice calls for the establishment of a board level audit committee. In such cases, SSGA FM believes companies should have an audit committee that is responsible for monitoring the integrity of the financial statements of the company, appointing external auditors, monitoring their qualifications and independence as well as their effectiveness and resource levels. Based on our desire to enhance the quality of financial and accounting oversight provided by independent directors, SSGA FM expects that listed companies have an audit committee that is constituted of a majority of independent directors.
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
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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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-appointment 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-shareholdings 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 and a definitive number of shares to be repurchased.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Mergers or reorganizing the structure of a company often involve proposals relating to reincorporation, restructurings,
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. |
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.
Remuneration
SSGA FM considers it to be the boards responsibility to set appropriate levels 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.
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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 investigations, charges of fraud or other indication of significant concerns.
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March 2016
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.
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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 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.
Japanese companies have the option of having a traditional board of directors with statutory auditors, a board with a committee structure, or a hybrid board with board level audit committee. SSGA FM will generally support companies that seek shareholder approval to adopt a committee or hybrid board 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 and 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 two outside directors, 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 independent directors. |
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For companies with a committee structure or a hybrid board 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.
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 percent or more of net income. SSGA FM may vote against the dividend payouts if the dividend payout ratio has been consistently below 30 percent 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 Japanese 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.
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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, 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.
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 percent, (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 percent, (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.
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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.
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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For Public Use
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 Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano) is a branch of State Street Global Advisors Limited, a company registered in the UK, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA ), with a capital of GBP 71650000.00, and whose registered office is at 20 Churchill Place, London E14 5HJ. State Street Global Advisors Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano), is registered in Italy with company number 06353340968 - R.E.A. 1887090 and VAT number 06353340968 and whose office is at Via dei Bossi, 4 - 20121 Milano, Italy Telephone: 39 02 32066 100 Facsimile: 39 02 32066
155. 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 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.
State Street Global Advisors |
© 2016 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved. INST-6454 0316 Exp. Date: 03/31/2017 |
March 2016
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.
FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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. |
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.
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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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 and 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, with 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 to 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.
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 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.
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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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, 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 anti-takeover 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 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 Incentive 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.
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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
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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FM Proxy Voting and Engagement Guidelines
ssga.com
For Public Use
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 Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano) is a branch of State Street Global Advisors Limited, a company registered in the UK, authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA ), with a capital of GBP 71650000.00, and whose registered office is at 20 Churchill Place, London E14 5HJ. State Street Global Advisors Limited, Milan Branch (Sede Secondaria di Milano), is registered in Italy with company number 06353340968 - R.E.A. 1887090 and VAT number 06353340968 and whose office is at Via dei Bossi, 4 - 20121 Milano, Italy Telephone: 39 02 32066 100 Facsimile: 39 02 32066
155. 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 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.
State Street Global Advisors |
© 2016 State Street Corporation. All Rights Reserved. INST-6453 0316 Exp. Date: 03/31/2017 |
PART C. Other Information
Item 28. Exhibits
(a)(1) |
Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust dated April 14, 2014 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 47 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement
on
From N-1A filed with the Commission on April 25, 2014. |
|
(b)(1) |
Amended and Restated By-Laws of State Street Institutional Investment Trust are incorporated herein by reference to the Post-Effective Amendment No. 137 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on August 28, 2015. | |
(c) |
Not applicable. | |
(d)(1) |
Investment Advisory Agreement dated November 17, 2015 between SSGA Funds Management, Inc. and the Trust is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 216 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2016. | |
(2) |
Amended and Restated Schedule B dated February 16, 2016 to the Investment Advisory Agreement dated November 17, 2015 between SSGA Funds Management, Inc. and the Trust is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 216 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2016. | |
(3) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement dated October 9, 2014 between CBRE Clarion Securities LLC and the Trust with respect to the State Street Clarion Global Real Estate Income Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 103 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on
Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 30, 2015. |
|
(4) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement dated January 20, 2015 between CBRE Clarion Securities LLC and the Trust with respect to the State Street Clarion Global Infrastructure & MLP Fund is incorporated herein by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on
Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 30, 2015. |
|
(5) |
Form of Investment Advisory Agreement dated April 16, 2015 between SSGA Funds Management, Inc. and Skipjack Strategic Real Return Cayman Fund Ltd. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 30, 2015. | |
(6) |
Fee Waiver letter dated April 29, 2016 between SSGA Funds Management, Inc. and the Trust with respect to State Street Strategic Real Return Fund, State Street Disciplined Global Equity Fund, State Street Small Cap Emerging Markets Equity Fund, State Street Equity 500 Index II Portfolio, State Street Aggregate Bond Index Portfolio, State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Portfolio, State Street Clarion Global Real Estate Income Fund, State Street Clarion Global Infrastructure & MLP Fund, State Street Strategic Real Return Portfolio, State Street Disciplined U.S. Equity Fund, State Street Disciplined International Equity Fund, State Street Target Retirement Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2015 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2020 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2025 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2030 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2035 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2040 Fund, State Street Target |
Retirement 2045 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2050 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2055 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2060 Fund, State Street Global ex-U.S. Index Fund, State Street Equity 500 Index Fund, State Street International Developed Equity Index Fund, State Street Hedged International Developed Equity Index Fund, State Street Aggregate Bond Index Fund, State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund, State Street U.S. Government Money Market Fund, State Street Treasury Plus Money Market Fund, State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Portfolio, State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Fund, State Street Emerging Markets Equity Index Fund, State Street International Developed Equity Index Fund, State Street 60 Day Money Market Fund, State Street Cash Reserves Fund, State Street Conservative Income Fund, State Street Current Yield Fund, State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Fund, State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Fund and State Street Hedged International Developed Equity Index Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 222 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on June 24, 2016. | ||
(e)(1) |
Distribution Agreement dated August 1, 2009 between State Street Global Markets, LLC, and the Trust is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 31 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on February 25, 2010. | |
(2) |
Amended Distribution Agreement dated August 1, 2009 between State Street Global Markets, LLC, and the Trust is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 36 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on December 12, 2011. | |
(3) |
Notice to the Distribution Agreement related to the State Street Institutional Investment Trust, the State Street Target Retirement 2015 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2020 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2025 Fund, State
Street Target Retirement 2030 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2035 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2040 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2045 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2050 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2055 Fund,
State Street Target Retirement 2060 Fund, State Street Target Retirement Fund, State Street Strategic Real Return Fund, State Street Strategic Real Return Portfolio, State Street Aggregate Bond Index Portfolio, State Street Global Equity ex-U.S.
Index Portfolio, State Street Equity 500 Index II Portfolio, State Street Global Macro Absolute Return Fund, State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Fund, State Street Opportunistic Emerging Markets Fund, State Street Clarion Global Real Estate
Income Fund, State Street Small Cap Emerging Markets Equity Fund and State Street Clarion Global Infrastructure & MLP Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to the State Street Institutional Investment
Trusts Registration Statement on
Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 30, 2015. |
|
(4) |
Notice to the Distribution Agreement related to the State Street Global Value Spotlight Fund, State Street International Value Spotlight Fund, State Street European Value Spotlight Fund, State Street Asia Pacific Value Spotlight Fund and State Street U.S. Value Spotlight Fund will be filed by subsequent amendment. | |
(5) |
Notice to the Distribution Agreement related to the State Street Hedged International Developed Equity Index Fund and State Street International Developed Equity Index Fund is incorporated herein by reference to the Post-Effective Amendment No. 137 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on August 28, 2015. | |
(6) |
Notice to the Distribution Agreement related to the State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Fund, State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Portfolio, State Street Emerging |
Markets Equity Index Fund, State Street 60 Day Money Market Fund, State Street 60 Day Money Market Portfolio, State Street Cash Reserves Fund, State Street Cash Reserves Portfolio, State Street Conservative Income Fund, State Street Conservative Income Portfolio, State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Fund, State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Portfolio, State Street Current Yield Fund, State Street Current Yield Portfolio, State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Fund and State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 175 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on November 20, 2015. | ||
(7) |
Notice to the Distribution Agreement related to the State Street Disciplined U.S. Equity Fund and State Street Disciplined International Equity Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 222 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on June 24, 2016. | |
(8) |
Notice to the Distribution Agreement related to the State Street Disciplined Global Equity Fund will be filed by subsequent amendment. | |
(f) |
Not applicable. | |
(g)(1) |
Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 9 + to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 30, 2002. | |
(2) |
Notice dated February 14, 2002 to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 with respect to the State Street Institutional Money Market Fund and the State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 30, 2008. | |
(3) |
Notice dated February 12, 2004 to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street Institutional Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 30, 2008. | |
(4) |
Notice dated July 22, 2008 to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund and
the State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 29 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on
Form N-1A filed with the Commission on July 24, 2008. |
|
(5) |
Notice to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street Target Retirement 2015 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2020 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2025 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2030 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2035 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2040 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2045 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2050 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2055 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2060 Fund, State Street Target Retirement Fund, State Street Strategic Real Return Portfolio, State Street Aggregate Bond Index Portfolio, State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Portfolio, State Street |
Equity 500 Index Portfolio, State Street Opportunistic Emerging Markets Fund, State Street Clarion Global Real Estate Income Fund, State Street Small Cap Emerging Markets Equity Fund and State Street Clarion Global Infrastructure & MLP Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 216 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2016. | ||
(6) |
Notice to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to State Street Strategic Real Return Fund, and State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Fund will be filed by subsequent amendment. | |
(7) |
Notice to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street Global Value Spotlight Fund, State Street International Value Spotlight Fund, State Street European Value Spotlight Fund, State Street Asia Pacific Value Spotlight Fund and State Street U.S. Value Spotlight Fund will be filed by subsequent amendment. | |
(8) |
Notice to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street International Developed Equity Index Fund is Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 111 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on May 26, 2015. | |
(9) |
Notice to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street Hedged International Developed Equity Index Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 104 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on May 6, 2015. | |
(10) |
Notice to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Fund, State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Portfolio and State Street Emerging Markets Equity Index Fund is incorporated herein by reference to the Post-Effective Amendment No. 151 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on September 30, 2015. | |
(11) |
Notice to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street 60 Day Money Market Fund , State Street 60 Day Money Market Portfolio, State Street Cash Reserves Fund, State Street Cash Reserves Portfolio, State Street Conservative Income Fund, State Street Conservative Income Portfolio, State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Fund, State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Portfolio, State Street Current Yield Fund, State Street Current Yield Portfolio, State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Fund and State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Portfolio will be filed by subsequent amendment. | |
(12) |
Notice to Amended and Restated Custodian Agreement dated February 14, 2001 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street Disciplined Global Equity Fund, State Street Disciplined U.S. Equity Fund and State Street Disciplined International Equity Fund will be filed by subsequent amendment. | |
(h)(1)(a) |
Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated February 28, 2000 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 9 + to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 30, 2002. |
(1)(b) |
Anti-Money Laundering Services Amendment dated October 31, 2006 to Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated February 28, 2000 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 29 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on July 24, 2008. | |
(1)(c) |
Services Amendment dated April 5, 2004 to Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated February 28, 2000 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 30, 2008. | |
(1)(d) |
Notice dated February 14, 2002 to Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated February 28, 2000 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street Institutional Money Market Fund and the State
Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 30 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on
Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2009. |
|
(1)(e) |
Notice dated February 12, 2004 to Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated February 28, 2000 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street Institutional Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 30 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2009. | |
(1)(f) |
Notice to Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated June 1, 2015 between Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. and the Trust with respect to the State Street Global Value Spotlight Fund, State Street International Value Spotlight Fund, State Street European Value Spotlight Fund, State Street Asia Pacific Value Spotlight Fund and State Street U.S. Value Spotlight Fund will be filed by subsequent amendment. | |
(1)(g) |
Notice to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated February 28, 2000 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to the State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to the Post-Effective Amendment No. 151 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on September 30, 2015. | |
(1)(h) |
Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated June 1, 2015 between Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. and the Trust is incorporated herein by reference to the Post-Effective Amendment No. 151 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on September 30, 2015. | |
(1)(i) |
Amended Schedule A to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated June 1, 2015 between Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. and the Trust with respect to the State Street Disciplined Global Equity Fund, State Street Disciplined U.S. Equity Fund and State Street Disciplined International Equity Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 222 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on June 24, 2016. | |
(1)(j) |
Notice to the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated February 28, 2000 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and the Trust with respect to State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Portfolio, State Street Aggregate Bond Index Portfolio, State Street |
Equity 500 Index II Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 216 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2016. | ||
(2)(a) |
Administration Agreement dated June 1, 2015 between SSGA Funds Management, Inc., SSGA Funds, State Street Institutional Investment Trust and State Street Master Funds is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 216 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2016. | |
(2)(b) |
Amended Schedule A dated February 16, 2016 to the Administration Agreement dated June 1, 2015 between SSGA Funds Management, Inc. and the Trust with respect to the State Street Global Value Spotlight Fund, State Street International Value Spotlight Fund, State Street European Value Spotlight Fund, State Street Asia Pacific Value Spotlight Fund, State Street Disciplined International Equity Fund and State Street Disciplined U.S. Equity Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 216 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2016. | |
(2)(c) |
Notice to Administration Agreement dated June 1, 2015 between SSGA Funds Management, Inc., SSGA Funds, State Street Institutional Investment Trust and State Street Master Funds with respect to the State Street U.S. Value Spotlight Fund will be filed by subsequent Amendment. | |
(2)(d) |
Sub-Administration Agreement dated June 1, 2015 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 175 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on November 20, 2015. | |
(2)(e) |
Notice to Sub-Administration Agreement dated June 1, 2015 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. with respect to the State Street Global Value Spotlight Fund, State Street International Value Spotlight Fund, State Street European Value Spotlight Fund, State Street Asia Pacific Value Spotlight Fund and State Street U.S. Value Spotlight Fund will be filed by subsequent amendment. | |
(2)(f) |
Notice to Sub-Administration Agreement dated June 1, 2015 between State Street Bank and Trust Company and SSGA Funds Management, Inc. with respect the State Street Disciplined Global Equity Fund, State Street Disciplined U.S. Equity Fund and State Street Disciplined International Equity Fund will be filed by subsequent amendment. | |
(3) |
Form of Master-Feeder Participation Agreement between State Street Master Funds and the Trust with respect to the State Street Equity 500 Index Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 17 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 28, 2006. | |
(4) |
Form of Master-Feeder Participation Agreement between State Street Master Funds and the Trust with respect to the State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 17 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 28, 2006. | |
(5) |
Master-Feeder Participation Agreement between State Street Master Funds and the Trust with respect to the State Street Institutional Tax Free Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 29 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on July 24, 2008. |
(6) | Master-Feeder Participation Agreement between State Street Master Funds and the Trust with respect to the State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 29 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on July 24, 2008. | |
(7) |
Master-Feeder Participation Agreement between State Street Master Funds and the Trust with respect to the State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 29 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on July 24, 2008. | |
(8) |
Master-Feeder Participation Agreement between State Street Master Funds and Henderson Global Funds dated April 20, 2009 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 30 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2009. | |
(9) |
Information Security Program Agreement dated November 19, 2010 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 33 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement
on
Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2011. |
|
(10) |
Plan of Liquidation and Termination relating to the State Street Tax Free Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 175 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on November 20, 2015. | |
(11) |
Master-Feeder Participation Agreement between State Street Master Funds and the Trust with respect to the State Street Hedged International Developed Equity Index Fund and State Street International Developed Equity Index Fund will be filed by subsequent amendment. | |
(i)(1) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP is incorporated herein by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission in September 2000. | |
(2) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 10 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on November 13, 2002. | |
(3) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the Class R Shares of the State Street Equity 500 Index Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 15 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on June 3, 2005. | |
(4) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to State Street Institutional Investment Trust and the State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 59 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on July 11, 2014. |
(5) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to State Street Target Retirement 2015 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2020 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2025 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2030 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2035 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2040 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2045 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2050 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2055 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2060 Fund, State Street Target Retirement Fund, State Street Strategic Real Return Fund, State Street Strategic Real Return Portfolio, State Street Aggregate Bond Index Portfolio, State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Portfolio and State Street Equity 500 Index II Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 59 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on July 11, 2014. | |
(6) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Clarion Global Infrastructure & MLP Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on January 9, 2015. | |
(7) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the Institutional Class, Investor Class and Administration Class shares of the State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund, State Street Institutional Tax Free Money Market
Fund, State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund and State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment
No. 54 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on
Form N-1A filed with the Commission on June 24, 2014. |
|
(8) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Clarion Global Real Estate Income Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on October 8, 2014. | |
(9) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Opportunistic Emerging Markets Fund and State Street Small Cap Emerging Markets Equity Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 77 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on November 5, 2014. | |
(10) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to Class G shares of the State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 66 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on September 9, 2014. | |
(11) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Hedged International Developed Equity Index Fund and State Street International Developed Equity Index Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 104 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on
Form N-1A filed with the Commission on May 6, 2015. |
|
(12) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Fund and State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 133 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on August 7, 2015. |
(13) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Emerging Markets Equity Index Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 137 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on August 28, 2015. | |
(14) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street 60 Day Money Market Fund and State Street 60 Day Money Market Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 151 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on September 30, 2015. | |
(15) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Cash Reserves Fund and State Street Cash Reserves Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 152 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on September 30, 2015. | |
(16) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Conservative Income Fund and State Street Conservative Income Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 153 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on September 30, 2015. | |
(17) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Fund and State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 154 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on September 30, 2015. | |
(18) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Current Yield Fund and State Street Current Yield Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 155 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on September 30, 2015. | |
(19) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Fund and State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 156 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on September 30, 2015. | |
(20) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Disciplined Global Equity Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 196 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on February 18, 2016. | |
(21) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Disciplined U.S. Equity Fund and State Street Disciplined International Equity Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 197 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on February 18, 2016. | |
(22) |
Legal Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP with respect to the State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund and State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund is filed herewith. | |
(j) |
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP is filed herewith. |
(k) |
Not applicable. | |
(l) |
Not applicable. | |
(m)(1) |
Amended and Restated Rule 12b-1 Plan is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 111 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on May 26, 2015. | |
(2) |
Amended Shareholder Servicing Plan for Service Class effective May 14, 2009 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 31 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on February 25, 2010. | |
(3) |
Amended Shareholder Servicing Plan for Investment Class effective May 14, 2009 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 31 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on February 25, 2010. | |
(n)(1) |
Amended and Restated Plan Pursuant to Rule 18f-3 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 111 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on May 26, 2015. | |
(o)(1) |
Power of Attorney as it relates to the Registrant is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 196 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on February 18, 2016. | |
(2) |
Power of Attorney as it relates to the State Street Disciplined Global Equity Portfolio, a series of SSGA Active Trust, is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 200 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on February 26, 2016. | |
(3) |
Power of Attorney as it relates to the Registrant is filed herewith. | |
(p)(1) |
Joint Code of Ethics governing the Registrant is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 216 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on April 29, 2016. | |
(2) |
Code of Ethics of CBRE Clarion Securities LLC is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on January 9, 2015. | |
(q)(1) |
Financial Statements for the fiscal years ending December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2013 for CBRE Clarion Global Listed Infrastructure Fund, LP are incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on January 9, 2015. | |
(2) |
Portfolio of Investments dated October 31, 2014 for the CBRE Clarion Global Listed Infrastructure Fund, LP is incorporated herein by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 85 to the State Street Institutional Investment Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed with the Commission on January 9, 2015. |
+ | Post-Effective Amendment No. 8 was filed with the Commission on January 30, 2002. The next Post-Effective Amendment, filed on April 30, 2002, should have been sequentially numbered Post-Effective Amendment No. 9. Due to a scriveners error, it was numbered Post-Effective Amendment No. 10. Such Post-Effective Amendment has been referred to in this Part C as Post-Effective Amendment No. 9. |
Item 29. Persons Controlled By or Under Common Control with the Fund
See the Statement of Additional Information regarding the Trusts control relationships.
Item 30. Indemnification
Under the terms of Registrants Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, Article VIII, Registrant is required, subject to certain exceptions and limitations, to indemnify each of its Trustees and officers, including persons who serve at the Registrants request as directors, officers or trustees of another organization in which the Registrant has any interest as a shareholder, creditor or otherwise who may be indemnified by Registrant under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Item 31. Business and Other Connections of the Investment Adviser
SSGA Funds Management, Inc. serves as the investment adviser for each series of the Trust. CBRE Clarion Securities LLC serves as investment sub-adviser for State Street Clarion Global Real Estate Income Fund and State Street Clarion Global Infrastructure & MLP Fund.
See Management in the applicable Prospectus and Management of the Trust in the applicable Statement of Additional Information for information regarding the business of SSGA Funds Management Inc. and CBRE Clarion Securities LLC. Information as to the directors and officers of the Adviser and CBRE Clarion Securities LLC is included in its Form ADV filed with the SEC and is incorporated herein by reference thereto.
Item 32. Principal Underwriter
(a) State Street Global Markets, LLC, State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, serves as the Trusts principal underwriter and also serves as the principal underwriter for the following investment companies: SPDR Series Trust, SPDR Index Shares Funds, State Street Master Funds, and SSGA Funds.
(b) To the best of Registrants knowledge, the directors and executive officers of State Street Global Markets, LLC, are as follows:
Nicholas Bonn |
Chief Executive Officer and Director |
|
Christopher P. Jensen |
FINOP and Chief Financial Officer and Director |
|
Howard Fairweather |
Director |
|
Stephan Gavell |
Director |
|
Mark Snyder |
Executive Vice President and Director |
|
R. Bryan Woodard |
Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Counsel and Secretary |
|
James Ross |
Executive Vice President and Director |
|
Martine Bond |
Executive Vice President and Director |
* | The principal business address for each of the above directors and executive officers is 1 Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111. |
Item 33. Location of Accounts and Records
The accounts and records of the Trust are located, in whole or in part, at the office of the Trust and the following locations:
State Street Institutional Investment Trust (Trust)
100 Summer Street, 7 th Floor
Boston, MA 02111
SSGA Funds Management, Inc. (Adviser)
State Street Financial Center
One Lincoln Street
Boston, MA 02111
SSGA Funds Management, Inc. serves as the Administrator for all Funds and Portfolios.
State Street Bank and Trust Company serves as the Sub-Administrator for all Funds and Portfolios.
State Street Bank and Trust Company serves as the Custodian, Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent) for all Funds, except not the Transfer Agent/Dividend Disbursing Agent for the State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund, State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund, the State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund, State Street Institutional Investment Trust, State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Fund, and State Street Target Retirement 2015 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2020 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2025 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2030 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2035 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2040 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2045 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2050 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2055 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2060 Fund, State Street Target Retirement Fund, State Street Strategic Real Return Fund, State Street Small Cap Emerging Markets Equity Fund, State Street Clarion Global Infrastructure & MLP Fund, State Street Clarion Global Real Estate Income Fund, State Street Global Value Spotlight Fund, State Street International Value Spotlight Fund, State Street European Value Spotlight Fund, State Street Asia Pacific Value Spotlight Fund, State Street U.S. Value Spotlight Fund, State Street Hedged International Developed Equity Index Fund, State Street International Developed Equity Index Fund, State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Fund, State Street Emerging Markets Equity Index Fund, State Street 60 Day Money Market Fund, State Street Cash Reserves Fund, State Street Conservative Income Fund, State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Fund, State Street Current Yield Fund, State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Fund, State Street Disciplined Global Equity Fund State Street Disciplined U.S. Equity Fund and State Street Disciplined International Equity Fund
State Street Bank and Trust Company
100 Summer Street, 7 th Floor
Boston, MA 02111
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc.
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. serves as the Transfer Agent/Dividend Disbursing Agent for the State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund, State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund, State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund, State Street Institutional Investment Trust, State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Fund, and State Street Target Retirement 2015 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2020 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2025 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2030 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2035 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2040 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2045 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2050 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2055 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2060 Fund, State Street Target Retirement Fund, State Street Strategic Real Return Fund, State Street Small Cap Emerging
Markets Equity Fund, State Street Clarion Global Infrastructure & MLP Fund, State Street Clarion Global Real Estate Income Fund, State Street Global Value Spotlight Fund, State Street International Value Spotlight Fund, State Street European Value Spotlight Fund, State Street Asia Pacific Value Spotlight Fund, State Street U.S. Value Spotlight Fund, State Street Hedged International Developed Equity Index Fund, State Street International Developed Equity Index Fund, State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Fund, State Street Emerging Markets Equity Index Fund, State Street 60 Day Money Market Fund, State Street Cash Reserves Fund, State Street Conservative Income Fund, State Street Institutional Liquid Assets Fund, State Street Current Yield Fund, State Street Ultra Short Term Bond Fund, State Street Disciplined Global Equity Fund, State Street Disciplined U.S. Equity Fund and State Street Disciplined International Equity Fund
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc.
2000 Crown Colony Drive
Quincy, Massachusetts 02169
Item 34. Management Services
Not applicable.
Item 35. Undertakings
Not applicable.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, (the 1933 Act), and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Registrant, State Street Institutional Investment Trust (the Trust), certifies that it meets all requirements for the effectiveness of this Registration Statement pursuant to Rule 485(b)(1)(iii) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment to the Trusts Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Boston and Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the 25 th day of August, 2016.
STATE STREET INSTITUTIONAL INVESTMENT TRUST | ||
By: |
/s/ Ellen M. Needham |
|
Ellen M. Needham President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the 1933 Act, as amended, this Registration Statement for the Trust has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities indicated on the 25 th day of August, 2016:
Signature |
Signature |
|||||
/s/ William L. Boyan* William L. Boyan, Trustee |
/s/ James E. Ross* James E. Ross, Trustee |
|||||
/s/ Michael F. Holland* Michael F. Holland, Trustee |
/s/ Richard D. Shirk* Richard D. Shirk, Trustee |
|||||
/s/ William L. Marshall* William L. Marshall, Trustee |
/s/ Rina K. Spence* Rina K. Spence, Trustee |
|||||
/s/ Patrick J. Riley* Patrick J. Riley, Trustee |
/s/ Bruce D. Taber* Bruce D. Taber, Trustee |
|||||
/s/ Michael A. Jessee* Michael A. Jessee, Trustee |
/s/ Douglas T. Williams* Douglas T. Williams, Trustee |
|||||
/s/ Bruce S. Rosenberg Bruce S. Rosenberg, Treasurer and Principal Financial Officer |
||||||
/s/ Ellen M. Needham Ellen M. Needham, President and Principal Executive Officer |
||||||
/s/ Kristin Schantz *By: Kristin Schantz Attorney-in-Fact Pursuant to Powers of Attorney |
SIGNATURES
This Registration Statement contains certain disclosures regarding the State Street Money Market Portfolio and State Street Treasury Plus Money Market Portfolio (the Portfolios), series of State Street Master Funds (the Trust). The Trust has, subject to the next following sentence, duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 226 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A of State Street Institutional Investment Trust (the Registrant) to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Boston and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on August 25, 2016. The Trust is executing this Registration Statement only in respect of the disclosures contained herein specifically describing the Trust and the Portfolios, and hereby disclaims any responsibility or liability as to any other disclosures in this Registration Statement.
STATE STREET MASTER FUNDS | ||
By: |
/s/ Ellen M. Needham |
|
Ellen M. Needham | ||
President, State Street Master Funds |
This Registration Statement on Form N-1A of the Registrant has been signed below by the following persons, solely in the capacities indicated and subject to the next following sentence, on August 25, 2016. Each of the following persons is signing this Post-Effective Amendment No. 226 to this Registration Statement only in respect of the disclosures contained herein specifically describing the Trust and the Portfolios, and hereby disclaims any responsibility or liability as to any other disclosures in this Registration Statement.
Signature |
Signature |
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/s/ William L. Boyan* William L. Boyan, Trustee |
/s/ James E. Ross* James E. Ross, Trustee |
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/s/ Michael F. Holland* |
/s/ Richard D. Shirk* |
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Michael F. Holland, Trustee | Richard D. Shirk, Trustee | |||||
/s/ William L. Marshall* William L. Marshall, Trustee |
/s/ Rina K. Spence* Rina K. Spence, Trustee |
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/s/ Patrick J. Riley* Patrick J. Riley, Trustee |
/s/ Bruce D. Taber* Bruce D. Taber, Trustee |
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/s/ Michael A. Jessee* Michael A. Jessee, Trustee |
/s/ Douglas T. Williams* Douglas T. Williams, Trustee |
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/s/ Bruce S. Rosenberg Bruce S. Rosenberg, Treasurer and Principal Financial Officer |
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/s/ Ellen M. Needham Ellen M. Needham, President and Principal Executive Officer |
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/s/ Kristin Schantz *By: Kristin Schantz Attorney-in-Fact Pursuant to Powers of Attorney |
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit No. |
Description |
|
28(i)(22) | Legal Opinion of Ropes and Gray LLP | |
28(j) | Consent of Ernst & Young LLP | |
28(o)(3) | Power of Attorney |
Exhibit 28(i)(22)
|
ROPES & GRAY LLP PRUDENTIAL TOWER 800 BOYLSTON STREET BOSTON, MA 02199-3600 |
August 25, 2016
State Street Institutional Investment Trust
P.O. Box 5049
Boston, Massachusetts 02206
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We are furnishing this opinion in connection with the proposed offer and sale by State Street Institutional Investment Trust, a Massachusetts business trust (the Trust), of Trust Class shares of beneficial interest (Shares) of State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund and State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund (each, a Fund), each a series of the Trust, pursuant to an amendment to the Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A (No. 333-30810) (the Registration Statement) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
We have examined the Trusts Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust dated April 14, 2014 (the Declaration of Trust) on file in the office of the Secretary of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. We have further examined the Trusts By-Laws and such other documents as we deem necessary for purposes of this opinion. In our examination, we have assumed the genuineness of all signatures, the legal capacity of all natural persons, the authenticity of all documents submitted to us as originals, the conformity to original documents of all documents submitted to us as certified or photostatic copies, and the authenticity of the originals of such latter documents.
For purposes of this opinion, we have assumed that all Shares will be offered and sold on the terms, and that the Trust will receive for the sale of such Shares the consideration, set forth in the Registration Statement as in effect at the time of such sale, and that such consideration will be in each case at least equal to the applicable net asset value per Share. In addition, we have assumed that any and all conditions established by resolution of the Trustees to the authorization or issuance of the Shares will have been satisfied in full prior to, and in respect of, such issuance.
We assume that appropriate action has been taken to register or qualify the sale of the Shares under any applicable state and federal laws regulating offerings and sales of securities.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion that the Trust is authorized to issue an unlimited number of Trust Class Shares of each Fund and that, when such Shares are issued and sold and the authorized consideration therefor is received by the Trust, such Shares will be validly issued, fully paid, and nonassessable by the Trust. We express no opinion as to the effect of laws, rules, and regulations of any state or jurisdiction other than The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The Trust is an entity of the type commonly known as a Massachusetts business trust. Under Massachusetts law, shareholders could, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust. However, the Declaration of Trust provides that shareholders shall not be subject to any personal liability for the acts or obligations of the Trust, and also requires that every note, bond, contract, instrument, certificate or undertaking made or issued on behalf of the Trust by the trustees or any trustee, by any officer or officers or otherwise shall give notice to the effect that the obligations of such instrument are not binding on shareholders. The Declaration of Trust provides that in case any shareholder or former shareholder shall be held to be personally liable solely by reason of his or her being or having been a shareholder of the Trust or of a particular series and not because of his or her acts or omissions or for some other reason, the shareholder or former shareholder (or his or her heirs, executors, administrators or other legal representatives or, in the case of a corporation or other entity, its corporate or other general successor) shall be entitled out of the assets of the series of which he or she is a shareholder or former shareholder to be held harmless from and indemnified against all loss and expense arising from such liability. Thus, the risk of a shareholder of a series of the Trust incurring financial loss on account of such shareholder liability should be limited to circumstances in which the series itself would be unable to meet its obligations.
We consent to the filing of this opinion with and as an exhibit to the Registration Statement.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Ropes & Gray LLP
Ropes & Gray LLP
State Street: Limited Access
Exhibit 28(j)
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the references to our firm under the caption Financial Highlights in each Prospectus of State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund, State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund and Neuberger Berman Money Fund, and Counsel and Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm in the Statement of Additional Information in Post-Effective Amendment No. 226 to the Registration Statement (Form N-1A, No. 333-30810) of State Street Institutional Investment Trust and to the incorporation by reference of our reports dated February 26, 2016, with respect to the financial statements of State Street Aggregate Bond Index Fund, State Street Aggregate Bond Index Portfolio, State Street Clarion Global Infrastructure & MLP Fund, State Street Clarion Global Real Estate Income Fund, State Street Emerging Markets Equity Index Fund, State Street Equity 500 Index Fund, State Street Equity 500 Index II Portfolio, State Street Global Equity ex-U.S. Index Fund, State Street Global ex-U.S. Index Portfolio, State Street Hedged International Developed Equity Index Fund, State Street Institutional Liquid Reserves Fund, State Street Institutional Treasury Money Market Fund, State Street Institutional Treasury Plus Money Market Fund, State Street Institutional U.S. Government Money Market Fund, State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Fund, State Street Small/Mid Cap Equity Index Portfolio, State Street Target Retirement Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2015 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2020 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2025 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2030 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2035 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2040 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2045 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2050 Fund, State Street Target Retirement 2055 Fund and State Street Target Retirement 2060 Fund, included in the respective Annual Reports for the year or periods ended December 31, 2015.
/s/ Ernst & Young LLP
Boston, Massachusetts
August 25, 2016
Exhibit 28(o)(3)
SSGA FUNDS
STATE STREET MASTER FUNDS
STATE STREET INSTITUTIONAL INVESTMENT TRUST
POWER OF ATTORNEY
The undersigned Trustee of SSGA Funds, State Street Master Funds and State Street Institutional Investment Trust (the Trusts) hereby constitutes and appoints Chad Hallett, Ann Carpenter, Bruce Rosenberg, Joshua Weinberg, Esq., Andrew DeLorme, Esq., David James, Esq., Kristin Schantz, Esq., Jesse Hallee, Esq., and Khimmara Greer, Esq., and each of them with full powers of substitution, as his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent to execute in his name and on his 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 any of the Trusts or their 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 Trusts or their affiliates to comply with such Acts, the rules, regulations and requirements of the SEC, the securities, Blue Sky law and/or corporate/trust laws of any state or other jurisdiction, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, and the regulatory authorities of any foreign jurisdiction, including all documents necessary to ensure the Trusts have 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 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 Trusts concerning the filings and actions described herein.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has hereunto set his hand as of the 8 th day of August 2016.
SIGNATURE | TITLE | |
/s/ Michael A. Jessee |
Trustee | |
Michael A. Jessee |