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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM N-CSR

 

 

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED

MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

Investment Company Act file number: 811-23100

 

 

BERNSTEIN FUND, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

 

1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10105

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

 

 

Joseph J. Mantineo

AllianceBernstein L.P.

1345 Avenue of the Americas

New York, New York 10105

(Name and address of agent for service)

 

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (800) 221-5672

Date of fiscal year end: September 30, 2019

Date of reporting period: September 30, 2019

 

 

 


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ITEM 1. REPORTS TO STOCKHOLDERS.


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BERNSTEIN FUND, INC.

 

 

Small Cap Core Portfolio

International Small Cap Portfolio

International Strategic Equities Portfolio

 

ANNUAL REPORT

SEPTEMBER 30, 2019

 

Beginning January 1, 2021, as permitted by new regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, each Fund’s annual and semi-annual shareholder reports will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website address to access the report.

If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from a Fund electronically at any time by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank) or, if you are a direct investor, by calling the Fund at 800.221.5672.

You may elect to receive all future reports in paper form free of charge. If you invest through a financial intermediary, you can contact your financial intermediary to request that you continue to receive paper copies of your shareholder reports; if you invest directly with a Fund, you can call the Fund at 800.221.5672. Your election to receive reports in paper form will apply to all funds held in your account with your financial intermediary or, if you invest directly, to all AB Mutual Funds you hold.


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Portfolio Manager Commentary

    1  
 

Disclosures and Risks

    6  
 

Historical Performance

    9  
 

Expense Example

    11  
 

Portfolio Summary

    12  
 

Schedule of Investments

    13  
 

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

    30  
 

Statement of Operations

    32  
 

Statement of Changes in Net Assets

    33  
 

Financial Highlights

    36  
 

Notes to Financial Statements

    45  
 

Other

    64  

Before investing in any portfolio of the Bernstein Fund, Inc., a prospective investor should consider carefully the portfolio’s investment objectives and policies, charges, expenses and risks. These and other matters of importance to prospective investors are contained in the portfolios’ prospectus, an additional copy of which may be obtained by visiting our website at www.Bernstein.com and clicking on “Investments”, then “Mutual Fund and Money Market Information—Prospectuses, SAIs and Shareholder Reports” or by calling your financial advisor or by calling Bernstein’s mutual fund shareholder help line at 212.756.4097. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.

For performance information current to the most recent month-end, please call (collect) 212.486.5800.

This shareholder report must be preceded or accompanied by the Bernstein Fund, Inc. prospectus for individuals who are not shareholders of the Fund.

You may obtain a description of the Fund’s proxy voting policies and procedures, and information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30, without charge. Simply visit www.AllianceBernstein.com, or go to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov, or call AllianceBernstein at 800.227.4618.

The Fund will file its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Commission for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Form N-PORT reports are available on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT may also be reviewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C.; information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 800.SEC.0330.

 

Investment Products Offered:    ·  Are Not FDIC Insured  ·  May Lose Value  ·  Are Not Bank Guaranteed


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Portfolio Manager Commentary (Unaudited)

 

To Our Shareholders—November 15, 2019

On the following pages, you will find the 2019 annual report for the Portfolios (collectively, the “Portfolios”, and individually, a “Portfolio”) of the Bernstein Fund, Inc. (the “Fund”). The annual report covers the six- and 12-month periods ended September 30, 2019, and includes financial statements as well as notes to the financial statements, information about the recent performance of the Portfolios and a listing of each Portfolio’s holdings as of the period end.

Global equity markets squeezed out positive returns during the 12 months ended September 30, 2019. Despite heightened uncertainty, this reflected a recovery from the extremely steep market sell-off at the end of 2018. The US market posted the strongest performance over the period, as both developed-international and emerging-markets stocks declined.

Global economic growth slowed as corporate confidence dimmed in conjunction with ongoing trade disputes and other geopolitical issues. We recently revised down our global GDP forecasts and now expect very modest, but still positive, growth in 2020. In response to a visible deterioration in the global economy, many central banks pivoted toward easy monetary policy, causing interest rates to fall—some into negative territory. Yields on the US 10-year Treasury moved lower over the period, benefiting US taxable and tax-exempt bonds, which delivered returns of 8%–10%, handily beating equity market returns.

The offset to slowing economic growth has been a strong consumer, especially in the US where unemployment remains at historic lows. Looking ahead, we expect uncertainties—when and how trade tension will resolve, if the consumer will stay strong, and whether monetary policy will be effective—will increase volatility in stock and bond markets. The range of potential outcomes for both stocks and bonds is greater than normal, and we consider these when positioning our portfolios.

If you have any questions about your investments in the Portfolios, please contact your Bernstein Advisor by calling 212.756.4097, or visit www.Bernstein.com. As always, we are firmly dedicated to your investment success. Thank you for your continued interest in the Portfolios.

Sincerely,

Kathleen M. Fisher

President

Bernstein Fund, Inc.

 

Small Cap Core Portfolio

Investment Objectives and Strategy

The Portfolio seeks to provide long-term growth of capital. The Portfolio invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its net assets (plus any borrowings for investment purposes) in equity securities of small-capitalization companies or other securities or instruments with similar economic characteristics, including derivatives related to equity securities. Equity securities are primarily common stocks, although, for purposes of the 80% policy, equity securities may also include preferred stocks, warrants, convertible securities, sponsored or unsponsored American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) and Global Depositary Receipts (“GDRs”) and equity real estate investment trusts (“REITs”). You will be notified at least 60 days prior to any change to the Portfolio’s 80% investment policy.

AllianceBernstein L.P. serves as the Portfolio’s investment manager (the “Adviser”). The Adviser invests the assets of the Portfolio primarily in a diversified portfolio of equity securities of small-capitalization companies located in the US. The Portfolio defines small-capitalization companies as those that, at the time of investment, fall within the capitalization range between the smallest company in the Russell 2000 Index (“Russell 2000”) and the largest company in the Russell 2000. The market capitalization of the companies included in the Portfolio’s definition of “small-capitalization” companies changes over time as the capitalization of the securities included in the Russell 2000 changes.

The Adviser utilizes both quantitative analysis and fundamental research to determine which securities will be held by the Portfolio and to manage risk. The Adviser applies quantitative analysis to all of the securities in the Portfolio’s research universe, which is composed primarily of securities in the Portfolio’s benchmark. Those securities that score highly on this quantitative analysis are then screened to eliminate those securities that the Adviser is recommending against purchasing based on its fundamental research, and a portfolio is constructed from the remaining highly ranked securities

 

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2019 Annual Report     1  


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Portfolio Manager Commentary (continued)

 

based on diversification and risk considerations. In its quantitative analysis, the Adviser considers a number of metrics that have historically provided some indication of favorable future returns, including metrics relating to valuation, quality, investor behavior and corporate behavior. In general, stocks are purchased when, in the view of the Adviser, they provide the highest expected returns, considering their contribution to the estimated risk of the Portfolio’s existing investments. Typically, growth in the size of a company’s market capitalization relative to other domestically traded companies does not cause the Adviser to dispose of the security. The Adviser expects to seek to manage the overall portfolio volatility of the Portfolio relative to the Russell 2000 by favoring securities that offer the best balance between return and targeted risk.

The Portfolio may also invest in exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) and other investment companies from time to time.

The Portfolio expects to utilize derivatives, such as options, futures contracts, forwards and swaps. For example, the Portfolio may use stock index futures contracts to equitize cash. Derivatives may provide a more efficient and economical exposure to market segments than direct investments, and may also be a more efficient way to alter the Portfolio’s exposure.

Investment Results

The table on page 9 shows the Portfolio’s performance compared to its benchmark, the Russell 2000 Index, for the six- and 12-month periods ended September 30, 2019. The table also includes the Portfolio’s peer group, as represented by the Lipper Small-Cap Core Funds Average (the “Lipper Average”). Funds in the Lipper Average have generally similar investment objectives to the Portfolio, although some of the funds may have different investment policies and sales and management fees and fund expenses.

Worries about a global slowdown, economic uncertainty from Brexit negotiations and escalation in the US-China trade conflict led to a sharp sell-off in US small-cap markets during the fourth quarter of 2018. Although markets partially recovered during the subsequent quarters, the Russell 2000 Index was down –8.89% for the 12-month period and the Portfolio trailed this performance, as well as the Lipper Average. The Portfolio outperformed its benchmark over the six-month period as the episodic market volatility regime persisted, but underperformed the Lipper Average.

The Portfolio maintains long-term exposure to attractive valuation, high profitability and positive-sentiment stocks, which tend to outperform over the long term. As the 12-month period progressed, the Portfolio’s exposure to value stocks was a significant detractor, as this style remained challenged. Exposure to factors related to market sentiment, despite contributing most of the year, detracted during the momentum sell-off in the third quarter of 2019. An overweight in the energy sector, as well as choices within specialty retail and commercial banks, detracted. An overweight in the information technology sector, in addition to stock selection in pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, contributed to performance.

The Portfolio utilized derivatives in the form of futures for investment purposes, which detracted from absolute performance for both periods.

International Small Cap Portfolio

Investment Objective and Strategy

The Portfolio seeks to provide long-term growth of capital. The Portfolio invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its net assets (plus any borrowings for investment purposes) in equity securities of small-capitalization companies or other securities or instruments with similar economic characteristics, including derivatives related to equity securities. Equity securities are primarily common stocks, although, for purposes of the 80% policy, equity securities may also include preferred stocks, warrants, convertible securities, sponsored or unsponsored ADRs and GDRs and equity REITs. You will be notified at least 60 days prior to any change to the Portfolio’s 80% investment policy.

AllianceBernstein L.P. serves as the Portfolio’s Adviser. The Adviser invests the assets of the Portfolio primarily in a diversified portfolio of equity securities of small-capitalization companies located outside of the United States. Under normal circumstances, at least 65% of the Portfolio’s net assets are invested in companies located outside of the United States. The Portfolio defines small-capitalization companies as those that, at the time of investment, have market capitalizations within the market capitalization range of the Portfolio’s benchmark, the Morgan Stanley Capital International (“MSCI”) All Country World Index (“ACWI”) ex-USA Small Cap. The market capitalization of the companies included in the Portfolio’s definition of “small-capitalization” companies changes over time as the capitalization of the securities included in the MSCI ACWI ex-USA Small Cap changes.

The Portfolio’s exposure to non-US companies may change over time based on the Adviser’s assessment of market

 

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2   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


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Portfolio Manager Commentary (continued)

 

conditions and the investment merit of non-US issuers. Under normal circumstances, the Adviser invests in companies located in at least three countries other than the United States and, at times, may have exposure to issuers in several different countries. In determining a company’s location for purposes of the Portfolio’s investment policies and restrictions, the Adviser may consider: (1) the place of domicile, (2) where the company has an established presence and conducts its business and (3) where the company conducts a significant part of its economic activities. The Portfolio may invest in both developed and emerging-market countries and, at times, may invest significantly in emerging markets.

The Adviser seeks to identify attractive investment opportunities primarily through its fundamental investment research or quantitative analysis. In applying its fundamental research, the Adviser generally seeks to identify companies that possess both attractive valuation and compelling company- and/or industry-level investment catalysts. In applying its quantitative analysis, the Adviser typically considers a number of metrics that historically have provided some indication of favorable future returns, including metrics related to valuation, quality, investor behavior and corporate behavior. Utilizing these resources, the Adviser expects to allocate the Portfolio’s assets among issuers, industries and geographic locations to attempt to create a diversified portfolio of investments.

The Portfolio may invest in established companies and also in new and less-seasoned issuers. The Portfolio may also invest in ETFs and other investment companies from time to time.

The Portfolio expects to utilize derivatives, such as options, futures contracts, forwards and swaps. For example, the Portfolio may invest in currency derivatives as discussed below and in futures contracts to gain exposure to certain markets. Derivatives may provide a more efficient and economical exposure to market segments than direct investments, and may also be a more efficient way to alter the Portfolio’s exposure.

Fluctuations in currency exchange rates can have a dramatic impact on the returns of foreign equity securities. The Adviser may employ currency hedging strategies, including the use of currency-related derivatives, to seek to reduce currency risk in the Portfolio, but it is not required to do so. The Adviser may also take long and short positions in currencies or related derivatives for investment purposes, independent of any security positions. The Adviser may use stock index futures contracts to gain access to certain markets.

Investment Results

The table on page 9 shows the Portfolio’s performance compared to its benchmark, the MSCI ACWI ex-US Small Cap (net), for the six- and 12-month periods ended September 30, 2019. The table also includes the Portfolio’s peer group, as represented by the Lipper International Small/Mid-Cap Growth Funds Average. Funds in the Lipper Average have generally similar investment objectives to the Portfolio, although some of the funds may have different investment policies and sales and management fees and fund expenses.

For both periods, the Portfolio underperformed the benchmark and the Lipper Average. For the 12-month period, the relative underperformance was driven by sector selection. Positive stock selection modestly offset these losses, and currency selection had no impact. The Portfolio’s modest underweight to real estate securities detracted, as the most defensive sectors in international small-cap stocks outperformed significantly.

For the six-month period, an underweight to, and stock selection within, the real estate sector continued to detract. The sector performed quite strongly as a result of declining global interest rates with central bank easing, and real estate securities can perform strongly in that environment. Worries about a slowing global economy also negatively impacted stock selection within materials. Positive stock selection within consumer staples, financials and industrials partially offset these losses.

The Portfolio utilized currency forwards for hedging purposes, which had no material impact on absolute performance for both periods.

International Strategic Equities Portfolio

Investment Objective and Strategy

The Portfolio seeks to provide long-term growth of capital. The Portfolio invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its net assets (plus any borrowings for investment purposes) in equity securities or other securities or instruments with similar economic characteristics, including derivatives related to equity securities. Equity securities are primarily common stocks, although, for purposes of the 80% policy, equity securities may also include preferred stocks, warrants, convertible securities, sponsored or unsponsored ADRs and GDRs and equity REITs. You will be notified at least 60 days prior to any change to the Portfolio’s 80% investment policy.

AllianceBernstein L.P. serves as the Portfolio’s Adviser. The Adviser invests the assets of the Portfolio primarily (under normal circumstances, at least 65% of net assets) in equity

 

(Portfolio Manager Commentary continued on next page)

 

   
2019 Annual Report     3  


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Portfolio Manager Commentary (continued)

 

securities of issuers in countries that make up the MSCI ACWI ex-US, which includes both developed and emerging-market countries. The Portfolio focuses on securities of large-cap and mid-cap companies. The Adviser expects to allocate fund assets among issuers in many foreign countries, but not necessarily in the same proportion that the countries are represented in the MSCI ACWI ex-US and may invest in issuers in countries outside of the MSCI ACWI ex-US. The Portfolio’s exposure among non-US countries may change over time based on the Adviser’s assessment of market conditions and the investment merit of particular non-US issuers. Under normal circumstances, the Adviser invests in companies located in at least three countries other than the United States and expects to have exposure to issuers in several different countries. In determining a company’s location for purposes of the Portfolio’s investment policies and restrictions, the Adviser may consider: (1) the place of domicile, (2) where the company has an established presence and conducts its business and (3) where the company conducts a significant part of its economic activities. The Portfolio may, at times, invest significantly in emerging markets.

The Adviser utilizes both fundamental and quantitative research to both determine which securities will be held by the Portfolio and to manage risk. Specifically, the Portfolio’s management team uses the universe of securities selected by the Adviser’s various fundamental investment teams focusing on international equity securities, and applies its quantitative analysis to these securities. In applying its quantitative analysis, the Adviser considers a number of metrics that have historically provided some indication of favorable future returns, including metrics relating to valuation, quality, investor behavior and corporate behavior. Utilizing these resources, the Adviser expects to allocate the Portfolio’s assets among issuers, industries and geographic locations to attempt to create a diversified portfolio of investments.

The Portfolio may also invest in ETFs and other investment companies from time to time.

The Portfolio expects to utilize derivatives, such as options, futures contracts, forwards and swaps. For example, the Portfolio may invest in currency derivatives as discussed below and in futures contracts to gain exposure to certain markets. Derivatives may provide a more efficient and economical exposure to market segments than direct investments, and may also be a more efficient way to alter the Portfolio’s exposure.

Fluctuations in currency exchange rates can have a dramatic impact on the returns of foreign equity securities. The Adviser may employ currency hedging strategies, including the use of currency-related derivatives, to seek to reduce currency risk in the Portfolio, but it is not required to do so. The Adviser may also take long and short positions in currencies or related derivatives for investment purposes, independent of any security positions. The Adviser may use stock index futures contracts to gain access to certain markets.

Investment Results

The table on page 9 shows the Portfolio’s performance compared to its benchmark, the MSCI ACWI ex-US (net), for the six- and 12-month periods ended September 30, 2019. The table also includes the Portfolio’s peer group, as represented by the Lipper International Multi-Cap Growth Funds Average. Funds in the Lipper Average have generally similar investment objectives to the Portfolio, although some of the funds may have different investment policies and sales and management fees and fund expenses.

The Portfolio underperformed the benchmark and the Lipper Average for both periods. International equity markets were very volatile over the 12-month period and delivered slightly negative returns overall; for the 12-month period ended September 30, 2019, the MSCI ACWI ex US (net) returned –1.23%, and over the six-month period it was slightly positive at 1.13%. Emerging markets performed similarly to developed markets overall during the period with both showing high levels of volatility.

For the 12-month period, both country selection and stock selection detracted, relative to the benchmark. Overweights to Israel, Japan and Brazil detracted the most, while overweights to the Netherlands and Denmark, and an underweight to Mexico, contributed. Stock selection in utilities, information technology and communication services added to performance, but was more than offset by selection in financials, energy and consumer staples. Country contributions from being overweight the US dollar and underweight the euro were offset by losses from a range of other currency exposures.

Over the six-month period, stock selection detracted from performance, particularly in financials and real estate, while consumer discretionary holdings contributed. In country selection, overweights to Israel and Hong Kong detracted, while overweights to the Netherlands and Italy were positive contributors. In currencies, contribution from an overweight to the US dollar was offset by detraction from currency exposures in South Korea, Japan and Norway.

 

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4   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


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Portfolio Manager Commentary (continued)

 

The Portfolio utilized derivatives in the form of currency forwards for hedging purposes, which detracted for the six-month period and had an immaterial impact on absolute performance for the 12-month period.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     5  


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Disclosures and Risks (Unaudited)

 

Benchmark Disclosures

None of the following indices or averages reflects fees and expenses associated with the active management of a mutual fund portfolio. The Russell 2000® Index measures the performance of the small-cap segment of the US equity universe. The MSCI ACWI ex-USA Small Cap (net) measures the performance of the small-cap market segment across 22 of 23 developed markets (excluding the US) and 24 emerging-market countries. The MSCI ACWI ex-US (net, free float-adjusted, market capitalization weighted) represents the equity market performance of developed and emerging markets, excluding the United States. MSCI makes no express or implied warranties or representations, and shall have no liability whatsoever with respect to any MSCI data contained herein. The MSCI data may not be further redistributed or used as a basis for other indices, any securities or financial products. This report is not approved, reviewed or produced by MSCI. Net returns include the reinvestment of dividends after deduction of non-US withholding tax. Investors cannot invest directly in an index, and their results are not indicative of the performance for any specific investment, including the Portfolios.

A Word About Risk

All Portfolios:

The share price of the Portfolios will fluctuate and you may lose money. There is no guarantee that the Portfolios will achieve their investment objectives.

Illiquid Investments Risk: Illiquid investments risk exists when particular investments are difficult to purchase or sell, possibly preventing the Portfolios from selling securities at an advantageous price. Illiquid securities may also be difficult to value. Derivatives and securities involving substantial market and credit risk may become illiquid.

Redemption Risk: The Portfolios may experience heavy redemptions that could cause the Portfolios to liquidate their assets at inopportune times or unfavorable prices or increase or accelerate taxable gains or transaction costs and may negatively affect the Portfolios’ net asset value, or performance, which could cause the value of your investment to decline. Redemption risk is heightened during periods of overall market turmoil.

Market Risk: The Portfolios are subject to market risk, which is the risk that stock prices in general or in particular countries or sectors may decline over short or extended periods. Stock prices may decline in response to adverse changes in the economy or the economic outlook; deterioration in investor sentiment; interest-rate, currency and commodity price fluctuations; adverse geopolitical, social or environmental developments; issuer- and sector-specific considerations; and other factors. In the past decade, financial markets in the United States, Europe and elsewhere have experienced increased volatility, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. These market conditions may recur from time to time and have an adverse impact on various securities markets. Certain governments and central banks have provided significant support to financial markets, including by buying stocks and through other market interventions. Recently, the Federal Reserve has reduced its market support activities and raised interest rates. Further governmental or central bank actions, including interest-rate increases or decreases, could negatively affect financial markets generally, increase market volatility and reduce the value and liquidity of securities in which the Portfolio invests.

Current political uncertainty surrounding the European Union (“EU”) and its membership may increase market volatility. The United Kingdom has voted to withdraw from the EU and the consequences for European and UK businesses could be severe. One or more other countries may withdraw from the EU and/or abandon the euro, the common currency of the EU. The financial instability of some countries in the EU, together with the risk of that financial instability impacting other more stable countries, may increase the risk of investing in companies in Europe and worldwide. The United States and its trading partners are periodically involved in disputes over trade, which may result in tariffs on various categories of goods imported from the other country. Trade disputes, particularly prolonged disputes, may adversely affect the economies of the United States and its trading partners, as well as the companies directly or indirectly affected by the dispute and financial markets generally, and thus may adversely affect the value of the Portfolios’ assets. In addition, policy and legislative changes in the United States and in other countries are affecting many aspects of financial regulation, and may in some instances contribute to decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the financial markets. The impact of these changes, and the practical implications for market participants, may not be fully known for some time.

Economies and financial markets throughout the world are becoming increasingly interconnected. Economic, financial or political events, trading and tariff arrangements, terrorism, natural disasters and other circumstances in one country or region could have profound impacts on global economies or markets. As a result, whether or not the Portfolios invest in

 

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6   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


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Disclosures and Risks (continued)

 

securities of issuers located in or with significant exposure to countries experiencing economic and financial difficulties, the value and liquidity of the Portfolios’ investments may be negatively affected.

Sector Risk: The Portfolios may have more risk because of concentrated investments in a particular market sector, such as the financials, consumer discretionary, information technology or industrials sector. Market or economic factors affecting that sector could have a major effect on the value of the Portfolios’ investments.

Capitalization Risk: Investments in small- and mid-capitalization companies may be more volatile than investments in large-capitalization companies. Investments in small- and mid-capitalization companies may have additional risks because these companies may have limited product lines, markets or financial resources.

Allocation Risk: The Portfolios may seek to focus on different investment disciplines or factors at different times as a means to achieve their investment objectives. In the event that the investment disciplines or factors to which the Portfolios have greater exposure perform worse than the investment disciplines or factors with less exposure, the Portfolios’ returns may be negatively affected.

Derivatives Risk: The Portfolios may use derivatives in currency hedging as well as for direct investments to gain access to certain markets, earn income, enhance return and broaden portfolio diversification, which entail greater risk than if used solely for hedging purposes. In addition to other risks such as the credit risk of the counterparty, derivatives involve the risk that changes in the value of the derivative may not correlate with relevant assets, rates or indices. Derivatives may be difficult to price or unwind, and small changes may produce disproportionate losses for the Portfolios. Certain derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the initial investment. Assets required to be set aside or posted to cover or secure derivatives positions may themselves go down in value, and these collateral and other requirements may limit investment flexibility. Some derivatives involve leverage, which can make the Portfolios more volatile and can compound other risks. The US government and certain foreign governments have adopted regulations governing derivatives markets, including mandatory clearing of certain derivatives and may impose additional regulations governing margin, reporting and registration requirements. The ultimate impact of the regulations remains unclear. Additional regulation may make derivatives more costly, limit their availability or utility, otherwise adversely affect their performance, or disrupt markets.

Management Risk: The Portfolios are subject to management risk because they are actively managed investment portfolios. The Adviser will apply its investment techniques and risk analyses in making investment decisions for the Portfolios, but these techniques, analyses and decisions may not work as intended or may not produce the desired results, and may, during certain periods, result in increased volatility for the Portfolios or cause the value of the Portfolios’ shares to go down. In some cases, derivatives and other investment techniques may be unavailable or the Adviser may determine not to use them, possibly even under market conditions where their use could benefit the Portfolios. In addition, the Adviser may change the Portfolios’ investment strategies or policies from time to time. Those changes may not lead to the results intended by the Adviser and could have an adverse effect on the Adviser and could have an adverse effect on the value or performance of the Portfolios.

REIT Risk: Investing in REITs involves certain unique risks in addition to those risks associated with investing in the real estate industry in general. Equity REITs may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by the REITs, while mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of any credit extended. REITs are dependent upon management skills, are not diversified, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers and self-liquidation. Investing in REITs also involves risks similar to those associated with investing in small-capitalization companies. REITs may have limited financial resources, may trade less frequently and in a limited volume and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements than larger company securities.

Investment in Other Investment Companies Risk: As with other investments, investments in other investment companies, including other registered funds advised by the Adviser and ETFs, are subject to market and selection risk. In addition, if the Portfolios acquire shares of investment companies, shareholders bear both their proportionate share of expenses in the Portfolios (including management and advisory fees) and, indirectly, the expenses of the investment companies.

 

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Disclosures and Risks (continued)

 

International Small Cap and International Strategic Equities Portfolios

Foreign (Non-US) Securities Risk: Investments in foreign securities entail significant risks in addition to those customarily associated with investing in US securities. These risks include risks related to adverse market, economic, political and regulatory factors and social instability, all of which could disrupt the financial markets in which the Portfolios invest and adversely affect the value of the Portfolios’ assets.

Country Concentration Risk: The Portfolios may not always be diversified among countries or regions and the effect on the share price of the Portfolios of specific risks such as political, regulatory and currency may be magnified due to concentration of the Portfolios’ investments in a particular country or region.

Emerging-Markets Securities Risk: The risks of investing in foreign (non-US) securities are heightened with respect to issuers in emerging-market countries because the markets are less developed and less liquid and there may be a greater amount of economic, political and social uncertainty, and these risks are even more pronounced in “frontier” markets, which are investable markets with lower total market capitalization and liquidity than the more developed emerging markets. In addition, the value of the Portfolios’ investments may decline because of factors such as unfavorable or unsuccessful government actions and reduction of government or central bank support.

Foreign Currency Risk: This is the risk that changes in foreign (non-US) currency exchange rates may negatively affect the value of the Portfolios’ investments or reduce the returns of the Portfolios. For example, the value of the Portfolios’ investments in foreign securities and foreign currency positions may decrease if the US dollar is strong (i.e., gaining value relative to other currencies) and other currencies are weak (i.e., losing value relative to the US dollar).

Actions by a Few Major Investors: In certain countries, volatility may be heightened by actions of a few major investors. For example, substantial increases or decreases in cash flows of mutual funds investing in these markets could significantly affect local stock prices and, therefore, share prices of the Portfolios.

Small Cap Core Portfolio

Portfolio Turnover Risk: The Portfolio’s investment strategies may result in high portfolio turnover. The Portfolio generally buys portfolio securities with the intention of holding them for investment. However, when market conditions or other circumstances warrant, securities may be purchased and sold without regard to the length of time held. This trading may increase the Portfolio’s rate of turnover and the incidence of short-term capital gain taxable as ordinary income. A higher rate of portfolio turnover may increase transaction costs, which must be borne by the Portfolio and its shareholders.

These risks are discussed in further detail in the Portfolios’ prospectus.

An Important Note About Historical Performance

The performance shown on the following pages represents past performance and does not guarantee future results. Performance information is as of the dates shown. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance information shown. You may obtain performance information current to the most recent month-end by calling 212.756.4097. The investment return and principal value of an investment in the Portfolios will fluctuate, so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the Portfolios carefully before investing. For copies of our prospectus or summary prospectus, which contain this and other information, visit www.Bernstein.com, click on “Investments”, then “Mutual Fund and Money Market Information—Prospectuses, SAIs and Shareholder Reports”, or call Bernstein’s mutual fund shareholder help line at 212.756.4097 or contact your Bernstein Advisor. Please read the prospectus and/or summary prospectus carefully before investing.

 

   
8   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

Historical Performance (Unaudited)

 

Bernstein Fund Portfolios vs. Their Benchmarks and Lipper Averages

 

     TOTAL RETURNS     AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL  RETURNS        
THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30, 2019    PAST SIX
MONTHS
    PAST 12
MONTHS
    SINCE
INCEPTION
    INCEPTION DATE  

Small Cap Core Portfolio1

                             12/29/2015  

SCB Class Shares

     0.19     -10.15     5.79        

Advisor Class Shares

     0.28     -9.90     6.05        

Class Z Shares

     0.37     -9.80     6.08        

Russell 2000 Index

     -0.36     -8.89     9.02        

Lipper Small-Cap Core Funds Average

     1.15     -7.36     7.84        
                                  

International Small Cap Portfolio2

                             12/21/2015  

SCB Class Shares

     -0.95     -8.03     5.26        

Advisor Class Shares

     -0.76     -7.70     5.50        

Class Z Shares

     -0.76     -7.70     5.50        

MSCI ACWI ex-USA Small Cap (net)

     0.01     -5.63     6.30        

Lipper International Small/Mid-Cap Growth Funds Average

     1.24     -6.09     6.12        
                                  

International Strategic Equities Portfolio3

                             12/21/2015  

SCB Class Shares

     0.35     -4.22     6.00        

Advisor Class Shares

     0.52     -4.01     6.24        

Class Z Shares

     0.52     -4.02     6.26        

MSCI ACWI ex-US (net)

     1.13     -1.23     7.04        

Lipper International Multi-Cap Growth Funds Average

     2.58     -1.05     6.40  

 

 

1   The current prospectus table shows the total annual operating expense ratios for the Portfolio as 1.14%, 0.89% and 0.86% for SCB Class, Advisor Class and Class Z shares, respectively. The Financial Highlights section of this report sets forth expense ratio data for the current reporting period; the expense ratios shown above may differ from the expense ratios in the Financial Highlights section since they are based on different time periods.

 

2   The current prospectus table shows the total annual operating expense ratios for the Portfolio as 1.36%, 1.11% and 1.11% for SCB Class, Advisor Class and Class Z shares, respectively. The Financial Highlights section of this report sets forth expense ratio data for the current reporting period; the expense ratios shown above may differ from the expense ratios in the Financial Highlights section since they are based on different time periods.

 

3   The current prospectus table shows the total annual operating expense ratios for the Portfolio as 1.01%, 0.76% and 0.77% for SCB Class, Advisor Class and Class Z shares, respectively. The Financial Highlights section of this report sets forth expense ratio data for the current reporting period; the expense ratios shown above may differ from the expense ratios in the Financial Highlights section since they are based on different time periods.

See Disclosures, Risks and Note about Historical Performance on pages 6–8.

(Historical Performance continued on next page)

 

   
2019 Annual Report     9  


Table of Contents

Historical Performance (continued from previous page)

 

Small Cap Core—SCB Class Shares        

Growth of a $10,000 Investment in the Portfolio

   

LOGO

   

 

International Small Cap—SCB Class Shares        

Growth of a $10,000 Investment in the Portfolio

   

LOGO

   

 

International Strategic Equities—SCB Class Shares        

Growth of a $10,000 Investment in the Portfolio

   

LOGO

   

 

     Past performance is no guarantee of future results and an investment in the Portfolios could lose value. Each chart illustrates the total value of an assumed $10,000 investment as compared to the performance of each Portfolio’s respective benchmark and Lipper Average for the period since inception through September 30, 2019.

 

1   Inception date: 12/29/2015.

 

2   Inception date: 12/21/2015.

See Disclosures, Risks and Note about Historical Performance on pages 6–8.

 

   
10   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

Expense Example—September 30, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of a Portfolio, you incur various ongoing costs, including management fees and other Portfolio expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Portfolio and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period as indicated below.

Actual Expenses—The first line of the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes—The second line of the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on a Portfolio’s actual expense ratio and an assumed annual rate of return of 5% before expenses, which is not the Portfolio’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Portfolio and other funds by comparing this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads), or contingent deferred sales charges on redemptions. Therefore, the second line of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

      BEGINNING
ACCOUNT VALUE
APRIL 1, 2019
     ENDING
ACCOUNT VALUE
SEPTEMBER  30, 2019
     EXPENSES
PAID DURING
PERIOD*
     ANNUALIZED
EXPENSE
RATIO*
 

Small Cap Core Portfolio

           

SCB Class

        

Actual

   $ 1,000      $ 1,001.90      $ 5.72        1.14

Hypothetical**

   $ 1,000      $ 1,019.35      $ 5.77        1.14

Advisor Class

        

Actual

   $ 1,000      $ 1,002.80      $ 4.47        0.89

Hypothetical**

   $ 1,000      $ 1,020.61      $ 4.51        0.89

Class Z

        

Actual

   $ 1,000      $ 1,003.70      $ 4.37        0.87

Hypothetical**

   $ 1,000      $ 1,020.71      $ 4.41        0.87

International Small Cap Portfolio

           

SCB Class

        

Actual

   $ 1,000      $ 990.50      $ 6.74        1.35

Hypothetical**

   $ 1,000      $ 1,018.30      $ 6.83        1.35

Advisor Class

        

Actual

   $ 1,000      $ 992.40      $ 5.49        1.10

Hypothetical**

   $ 1,000      $ 1,019.55      $ 5.57        1.10

Class Z

        

Actual

   $ 1,000      $ 992.40      $ 5.49        1.10

Hypothetical**

   $ 1,000      $ 1,019.55      $ 5.57        1.10

International Strategic Equities Portfolio

           

SCB Class

        

Actual

   $ 1,000      $ 1,003.50      $ 5.02        1.00

Hypothetical**

   $ 1,000      $ 1,020.05      $ 5.06        1.00

Advisor Class

        

Actual

   $ 1,000      $ 1,005.20      $ 3.77        0.75

Hypothetical**

   $ 1,000      $ 1,021.31      $ 3.80        0.75

Class Z

        

Actual

   $ 1,000      $ 1,005.20      $ 3.82        0.76

Hypothetical**

   $ 1,000      $ 1,021.26      $ 3.85        0.76

 

 

 

 

*   Expenses are equal to the classes’ annualized expense ratios, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 183/365 (to reflect the one-half year period).

 

**   Assumes 5% annual return before expenses.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     11  


Table of Contents

Portfolio Summary—September 30, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

Small Cap Core Portfolio       
Sector Breakdown1

 

  

Financials

       17.6   

Health Care

       15.6     

Industrials

       15.5     

Information Technology

       15.3     

Consumer Discretionary

       11.6     

Real Estate

       7.5     

Energy

       4.0     

Utilities

       3.9     

Materials

       3.9     

Consumer Staples

       2.9     

Communication Services

       2.2     
       
International Small Cap Portfolio
Sector Breakdown1

 

   Country Breakdown1

Industrials

       18.8    LOGO

Consumer Discretionary

       12.9  

Information Technology

       11.9  

Financials

       11.0  

Consumer Staples

       9.8  

Real Estate

       8.8  

Communication Services

       6.9  

Materials

       6.7  

Health Care

       6.0  

Energy

       3.7  

Utilities

      

 

3.5

 

 

 

       
International Strategic Equities Portfolio
Sector Breakdown1

 

   Country Breakdown1

Financials

       17.3    LOGO

Consumer Discretionary

       12.8  

Consumer Staples

       12.5  

Information Technology

       12.5  

Industrials

       11.1  

Health Care

       8.4  

Utilities

       6.3  

Energy

       6.2  

Materials

       6.1  

Communication Services

       4.5  

Real Estate

      

 

2.3

 

 

 

 

1   All data are as of September 30, 2019. The Portfolio’s country and sector breakdowns are expressed as a percentage of each Portfolio’s long-term investments and may vary over time. Each Portfolio may also invest in other financial instruments, including derivative instruments, which provide investment exposure to a variety of asset classes (see “Schedule of Investments” section of the Small Cap Core, International Small Cap and International Strategic Equities Portfolios).

 

2   “Other” represents 9.9% in MSCI EM Index countries, 13.4% in MSCI EAFE Index countries and 0.7% in other emerging-market countries.

 

3   “Other” represents 6.8% in MSCI EM Index countries and 12.0% in MSCI EAFE Index countries.

 

     Please note: The sector classifications presented herein are based on the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) which was developed by Morgan Stanley Capital International and Standard & Poor’s. The components are divided into sector, industry group, and industry sub-indices as classified by the GICS for each of the market capitalization indices in the broad market. These sector classifications are broadly defined. The “Schedule of Investments” section of the report reflects more specific industry information and is consistent with the investment restrictions discussed in the Portfolio’s prospectus.

 

   
12   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments

 

Bernstein Fund, Inc.

Schedule of Investments

Small Cap Core Portfolio

September 30, 2019

 

Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  
COMMON STOCKS–99.7%

 

Financials–17.6%

 

Banks–9.6%

 

1st Source Corp.

    33,890     $ 1,549,790  

Bancorp, Inc. (The)(a)

    293,520       2,905,848  

Bank of NT Butterfield & Son Ltd. (The)

    94,530       2,801,869  

Cadence BanCorp

    145,672       2,555,087  

Cathay General Bancorp

    128,440       4,461,363  

Community Trust Bancorp, Inc.

    49,860       2,123,039  

Eagle Bancorp, Inc.

    61,950       2,764,209  

East West Bancorp, Inc.

    40,920       1,812,347  

Enterprise Financial Services Corp.

    28,660       1,167,895  

First BanCorp/Puerto Rico

    245,520       2,450,290  

First Citizens BancShares, Inc./NC–Class A

    5,410       2,551,085  

First Financial Corp./IN

    49,810       2,165,241  

Great Southern Bancorp, Inc.

    47,180       2,686,901  

Great Western Bancorp, Inc.

    113,250       3,737,250  

Hancock Whitney Corp.

    106,620       4,083,013  

Hanmi Financial Corp.

    124,431       2,336,814  

Hilltop Holdings, Inc.

    196,243       4,688,245  

Home BancShares, Inc./AR

    157,150       2,953,634  

IBERIABANK Corp.

    53,414       4,034,894  

Independent Bank Group, Inc.

    32,185       1,693,253  

International Bancshares Corp.

    98,720       3,812,566  

Northeast Bank(a)

    101,251       2,244,735  

Preferred Bank/Los Angeles CA

    63,600       3,331,368  

Republic Bancorp, Inc./KY–Class A

    58,420       2,538,349  

S&T Bancorp, Inc.

    50,160       1,832,345  

Sterling Bancorp/DE

    203,239       4,076,974  

Synovus Financial Corp.

    81,298       2,907,216  

TCF Financial Corp.(a)

    74,080       2,820,226  

Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc.(a)

    42,490       2,322,078  

Umpqua Holdings Corp.

    159,300       2,622,078  

Western Alliance Bancorp

    73,140       3,370,291  

Wintrust Financial Corp.

    39,190       2,532,850  
   

 

 

 
      89,933,143  
   

 

 

 
Capital Markets–1.2%

 

Blucora, Inc.(a)

    90,125       1,950,305  

Cowen, Inc.–Class A(a)

    132,150       2,033,789  

Evercore, Inc.–Class A

    24,710       1,979,271  

Houlihan Lokey, Inc.

    67,490       3,043,799  

Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc.–Class A

    110,800       1,903,544  
   

 

 

 
      10,910,708  
   

 

 

 
Consumer Finance–0.8%

 

Navient Corp.

    142,970       1,830,016  

Nelnet, Inc.–Class A

    49,070       3,120,852  

OneMain Holdings, Inc.

    74,580       2,735,594  
   

 

 

 
      7,686,462  
   

 

 

 
Insurance–3.4%

 

 

Ambac Financial Group, Inc.(a)

    49,420     966,161  

American Equity Investment Life Holding Co.

    121,884       2,949,593  

Argo Group International Holdings Ltd.

    18,510       1,300,142  

Assured Guaranty Ltd.

    84,160       3,741,754  

CNO Financial Group, Inc.

    134,430       2,128,027  

Employers Holdings, Inc.

    81,306       3,543,315  

First American Financial Corp.

    50,879       3,002,370  

Genworth Financial, Inc.–Class A(a)

    582,245       2,561,878  

Health Insurance Innovations, Inc.–Class A(a)

    83,650       2,085,395  

Heritage Insurance Holdings, Inc.

    73,200       1,094,340  

National Western Life Group, Inc.–Class A

    8,070       2,165,746  

Primerica, Inc.

    24,270       3,087,872  

Universal Insurance Holdings, Inc.

    96,260       2,886,837  
   

 

 

 
      31,513,430  
   

 

 

 
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)–0.2%

 

AG Mortgage Investment Trust, Inc.

    85,300       1,292,295  

Ellington Financial, Inc.

    26,440       477,771  
   

 

 

 
      1,770,066  
   

 

 

 
Thrifts & Mortgage Finance–2.4%

 

Axos Financial, Inc.(a)

    93,094       2,574,049  

BankUnited, Inc.

    81,570       2,742,383  

Essent Group Ltd.

    95,087       4,532,797  

Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corp.–Class C

    13,740       1,122,008  

MGIC Investment Corp.

    279,368       3,514,450  

NMI Holdings, Inc.–Class A(a)

    69,006       1,812,098  

Radian Group, Inc.

    143,260       3,272,058  

Walker & Dunlop, Inc.

    54,760       3,062,727  
   

 

 

 
      22,632,570  
   

 

 

 
      164,446,379  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Health Care–15.5%

 

Biotechnology–5.8%

 

ACADIA Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

    50,790       1,827,932  

Aimmune Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    86,282       1,806,745  

Allakos, Inc.(a)

    26,240       2,063,251  

Allogene Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    59,971       1,634,510  

Arena Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

    44,916       2,055,805  

Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

    90,770       2,557,899  

Ascendis Pharma A/S (Sponsored ADR)(a)

    9,050       871,696  

BeiGene Ltd. (Sponsored ADR)(a)

    7,970       976,006  

Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Co., Ltd.(a)

    45,280       1,889,082  

Blueprint Medicines Corp.(a)

    33,500       2,461,245  

CytomX Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    87,837       648,237  

Deciphera Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

    40,080       1,360,315  

Eagle Pharmaceuticals, Inc./DE(a)

    19,840       1,122,349  

Emergent BioSolutions, Inc.(a)

    43,859       2,292,948  

Enanta Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

    22,260       1,337,381  

Esperion Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    30,494       1,117,910  

Genomic Health, Inc.(a)

    28,641       1,942,433  

Gossamer Bio, Inc.(a)

    63,142       1,060,154  

Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    127,176       1,972,500  

Invitae Corp.(a)

    77,914       1,501,403  

Iovance Biotherapeutics, Inc.(a)

    100,140       1,822,548  

 

   
2019 Annual Report     13  


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments (continued)

 

     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  

Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

    17,760     $ 1,767,830  

Madrigal Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

    17,243       1,486,691  

Medicines Co. (The)(a)

    34,040       1,702,000  

Mirati Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    21,223       1,653,484  

Myriad Genetics, Inc.(a)

    56,070       1,605,284  

Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc.(a)

    13,516       1,217,927  

NextCure, Inc.(a)

    48,582       1,498,755  

NuCana PLC (ADR)(a)

    89,983       651,477  

Repligen Corp.(a)

    33,401       2,561,523  

Rubius Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    73,699       578,537  

Turning Point Therapeutics, Inc.–Class I(a)

    32,600       1,225,760  

Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical, Inc.(a)

    41,593       1,779,348  

Y-mAbs Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    66,659       1,737,134  
   

 

 

 
      53,788,099  
   

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies–4.1%

 

AngioDynamics, Inc.(a)

    36,070       664,409  

Atrion Corp.

    2,051       1,598,078  

CONMED Corp.

    16,580       1,594,167  

Globus Medical, Inc.–Class A(a)

    56,530       2,889,814  

Haemonetics Corp.(a)

    33,300       4,200,462  

Insulet Corp.(a)

    17,438       2,876,049  

Integer Holdings Corp.(a)

    38,250       2,890,170  

iRhythm Technologies, Inc.(a)

    17,474       1,294,998  

Lantheus Holdings, Inc.(a)

    97,877       2,453,287  

LivaNova PLC(a)

    20,750       1,531,142  

Masimo Corp.(a)

    19,560       2,910,332  

Merit Medical Systems, Inc.(a)

    36,550       1,113,313  

Mesa Laboratories, Inc.

    11,330       2,693,934  

Novocure Ltd.(a)

    24,620       1,841,084  

Orthofix Medical, Inc.(a)

    56,850       3,014,187  

Penumbra, Inc.(a)

    10,940       1,471,321  

Silk Road Medical, Inc.(a)

    76,930       2,502,533  

Tactile Systems Technology, Inc.(a)

    28,935       1,224,529  
   

 

 

 
      38,763,809  
   

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services–2.8%

 

Amedisys, Inc.(a)

    36,320       4,758,283  

AMN Healthcare Services, Inc.(a)

    75,970       4,372,833  

BioTelemetry, Inc.(a)

    57,650       2,348,085  

Chemed Corp.

    6,260       2,613,988  

Encompass Health Corp.

    38,307       2,424,067  

HealthEquity, Inc.(a)

    40,750       2,328,659  

LHC Group, Inc.(a)

    18,060       2,050,894  

Molina Healthcare, Inc.(a)

    12,540       1,375,889  

Patterson Cos., Inc.

    84,250       1,501,335  

RadNet, Inc.(a)

    132,140       1,897,530  
   

 

 

 
      25,671,563  
   

 

 

 
Health Care Technology–0.7%

 

HealthStream, Inc.(a)

    53,000       1,372,170  

HMS Holdings Corp.(a)

    90,299       3,112,155  

Teladoc Health, Inc.(a)

    36,200       2,451,464  
   

 

 

 
      6,935,789  
   

 

 

 
Life Sciences Tools & Services–0.7%

 

ICON PLC(a)

    11,750       1,731,245  

Medpace Holdings, Inc.(a)

    36,395       3,058,636  

PRA Health Sciences, Inc.(a)

    18,070     1,793,086  
   

 

 

 
      6,582,967  
   

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals–1.4%

 

Amphastar Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

    57,390       1,138,044  

Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    43,777       886,046  

Catalent, Inc.(a)

    23,310       1,110,955  

Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc.(a)

    95,610       1,097,603  

Corcept Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    93,870       1,326,852  

GW Pharmaceuticals PLC (Sponsored ADR)(a)

    6,808       783,124  

Horizon Therapeutics PLC(a)

    60,090       1,636,251  

Innoviva, Inc.(a)

    111,510       1,175,315  

MyoKardia, Inc.(a)

    27,060       1,411,179  

Revance Therapeutics, Inc.(a)

    101,056       1,313,728  

Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)

    57,920       1,591,642  
   

 

 

 
      13,470,739  
   

 

 

 
      145,212,966  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Industrials–15.5%

 

Aerospace & Defense–0.6%

 

Curtiss-Wright Corp.

    21,840       2,825,441  

National Presto Industries, Inc.

    16,028       1,427,934  

Vectrus, Inc.(a)

    24,461       994,340  
   

 

 

 
      5,247,715  
   

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics–1.4%

 

Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc.(a)

    104,194       2,628,815  

Echo Global Logistics, Inc.(a)

    118,165       2,676,437  

Forward Air Corp.

    50,318       3,206,263  

Hub Group, Inc.–Class A(a)

    62,065       2,886,022  

Radiant Logistics, Inc.(a)

    369,710       1,911,401  
   

 

 

 
      13,308,938  
   

 

 

 
Airlines–0.1%

 

SkyWest, Inc.

    18,980       1,089,452  
   

 

 

 
Building Products–1.8%

 

Builders FirstSource, Inc.(a)

    195,748       4,027,515  

Continental Building Products, Inc.(a)

    105,580       2,881,278  

Masonite International Corp.(a)

    63,700       3,694,600  

Patrick Industries, Inc.(a)

    68,742       2,947,657  

Trex Co., Inc.(a)

    41,380       3,762,683  
   

 

 

 
      17,313,733  
   

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies–1.9%

 

Brady Corp.–Class A

    24,190       1,283,279  

Casella Waste Systems, Inc.–Class A(a)

    54,490       2,339,801  

Deluxe Corp.

    75,550       3,714,038  

Kimball International, Inc.–Class B

    109,494       2,113,234  

SP Plus Corp.(a)

    60,546       2,240,202  

Steelcase, Inc.–Class A

    97,740       1,798,416  

Tetra Tech, Inc.

    45,720       3,966,667  
   

 

 

 
      17,455,637  
   

 

 

 
Construction & Engineering–1.7%

 

Comfort Systems USA, Inc.

    59,954       2,651,766  

EMCOR Group, Inc.

    47,900       4,125,148  

 

   
14   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  

MasTec, Inc.(a)

    61,470     $ 3,991,247  

Quanta Services, Inc.

    73,360       2,773,008  

Tutor Perini Corp.(a)

    140,440       2,012,505  
   

 

 

 
      15,553,674  
   

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment–1.1%

 

Atkore International Group, Inc.(a)

    119,270       3,619,845  

EnerSys

    41,813       2,757,149  

Generac Holdings, Inc.(a)

    51,130       4,005,524  
   

 

 

 
      10,382,518  
   

 

 

 
Machinery–2.3%

 

Alamo Group, Inc.

    15,820       1,862,330  

Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc.

    82,482       3,880,778  

Barnes Group, Inc.

    66,100       3,406,794  

Harsco Corp.(a)

    131,030       2,484,329  

Kadant, Inc.

    27,630       2,425,638  

Meritor, Inc.(a)

    237,893       4,401,021  

Wabash National Corp.

    231,491       3,358,934  
   

 

 

 
      21,819,824  
   

 

 

 
Professional Services–2.6%

 

ASGN, Inc.(a)

    48,860       3,071,340  

Barrett Business Services, Inc.

    36,590       3,249,924  

FTI Consulting, Inc.(a)

    37,050       3,926,929  

Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc.

    75,390       2,058,147  

ICF International, Inc.

    27,770       2,345,732  

Insperity, Inc.

    32,171       3,172,704  

Kforce, Inc.

    76,210       2,883,405  

Navigant Consulting, Inc.

    59,546       1,664,311  

TrueBlue, Inc.(a)

    95,960       2,024,756  
   

 

 

 
      24,397,248  
   

 

 

 
Road & Rail–0.6%

 

ArcBest Corp.

    97,542       2,970,154  

Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings, Inc.

    26,740       970,662  

Saia, Inc.(a)

    13,950       1,307,115  
   

 

 

 
      5,247,931  
   

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors–1.4%

 

Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc.

    48,780       2,770,704  

BMC Stock Holdings, Inc.(a)

    147,671       3,866,027  

GMS, Inc.(a)

    134,289       3,856,780  

Rush Enterprises, Inc.–Class A

    27,860       1,074,839  

Titan Machinery, Inc.(a)

    108,403       1,554,499  
   

 

 

 
      13,122,849  
   

 

 

 
          144,939,519  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Information Technology–15.3%

 

Communications Equipment–1.0%

 

Ciena Corp.(a)

    63,513       2,491,615  

Extreme Networks, Inc.(a)

    284,776       2,071,745  

InterDigital, Inc.

    43,531       2,284,072  

Viavi Solutions, Inc.(a)

    178,020       2,493,170  
   

 

 

 
      9,340,602  
   

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components–3.7%

 

Avnet, Inc.

    61,435     2,732,936  

Belden, Inc.

    34,282       1,828,602  

ePlus, Inc.(a)

    11,180       850,686  

Fabrinet(a)

    54,670       2,859,241  

Insight Enterprises, Inc.(a)

    40,090       2,232,612  

Jabil, Inc.

    61,410       2,196,636  

Knowles Corp.(a)

    120,620       2,453,411  

Novanta, Inc.(a)

    25,404       2,076,015  

OSI Systems, Inc.(a)

    23,920       2,429,315  

PC Connection, Inc.

    72,825       2,832,893  

Sanmina Corp.(a)

    85,440       2,743,478  

SYNNEX Corp.

    25,760       2,908,304  

Tech Data Corp.(a)

    33,820       3,525,397  

TTM Technologies, Inc.(a)

    252,770       3,082,530  
   

 

 

 
      34,752,056  
   

 

 

 
IT Services–4.1%

 

Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp.

    24,830       1,763,427  

CACI International, Inc.–Class A(a)

    12,160       2,812,122  

Everi Holdings, Inc.(a)

    148,888       1,259,592  

EVERTEC, Inc.

    92,036       2,873,364  

Genpact Ltd.

    41,160       1,594,950  

International Money Express, Inc.(a)

    183,650       2,523,351  

KBR, Inc.

    143,340       3,517,563  

ManTech International Corp./VA–Class A

    35,635       2,544,695  

MAXIMUS, Inc.

    57,495       4,442,064  

NIC, Inc.

    107,741       2,224,852  

Paysign, Inc.(a)

    88,670       895,567  

Perficient, Inc.(a)

    71,860       2,772,359  

Perspecta, Inc.

    132,292       3,455,467  

TTEC Holdings, Inc.

    53,730       2,572,592  

Unisys Corp.(a)

    163,797       1,217,012  

WNS Holdings Ltd. (ADR)(a)

    31,430       1,846,512  
   

 

 

 
      38,315,489  
   

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment–3.1%

 

Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.(a)

    50,529       2,900,870  

Cirrus Logic, Inc.(a)

    78,474       4,204,637  

Cree, Inc.(a)

    24,058       1,178,842  

Kulicke & Soffa Industries, Inc.

    131,543       3,088,630  

Lattice Semiconductor Corp.(a)

    160,770       2,939,680  

MKS Instruments, Inc.

    21,982       2,028,499  

Monolithic Power Systems, Inc.

    12,340       1,920,474  

Nanometrics, Inc.(a)

    76,450       2,493,799  

Silicon Laboratories, Inc.(a)

    23,527       2,619,731  

Teradyne, Inc.

    56,830       3,291,025  

Xperi Corp.

    108,778       2,249,529  
   

 

 

 
      28,915,716  
   

 

 

 
Software–3.2%

 

Aspen Technology, Inc.(a)

    20,500       2,523,140  

Blackbaud, Inc.

    20,750       1,874,555  

CommVault Systems, Inc.(a)

    66,830       2,987,969  

Cornerstone OnDemand, Inc.(a)

    46,751       2,562,890  

Fair Isaac Corp.(a)

    8,340       2,531,357  

j2 Global, Inc.

    54,468       4,946,784  

 

   
2019 Annual Report     15  


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments (continued)

 

     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  

Manhattan Associates, Inc.(a)

    24,716     $ 1,993,840  

Nuance Communications, Inc.(a)

    177,280       2,891,437  

Pegasystems, Inc.

    25,250       1,718,262  

Progress Software Corp.

    73,220       2,786,753  

Rapid7, Inc.(a)

    34,587       1,569,904  

SPS Commerce, Inc.(a)

    37,680       1,773,598  
   

 

 

 
      30,160,489  
   

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals–0.2%

 

NCR Corp.(a)

    45,390       1,432,508  
   

 

 

 
          142,916,860  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Consumer Discretionary–11.6%

 

Auto Components–0.2%

 

Stoneridge, Inc.(a)

    48,850       1,512,884  
   

 

 

 
Automobiles–0.3%

 

Thor Industries, Inc.

    22,582       1,279,044  

Winnebago Industries, Inc.

    45,470       1,743,775  
   

 

 

 
      3,022,819  
   

 

 

 
Distributors–0.3%

 

Core-Mark Holding Co., Inc.

    81,668       2,622,768  
   

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services–1.7%

 

Adtalem Global Education, Inc.(a)

    79,060       3,011,395  

Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Inc.(a)

    12,958       1,976,095  

Hillenbrand, Inc.

    136,280       4,208,327  

K12, Inc.(a)

    72,110       1,903,704  

Strategic Education, Inc.

    12,347       1,677,710  

WW International, Inc.(a)

    80,780       3,055,100  
   

 

 

 
      15,832,331  
   

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure–2.6%

 

Bloomin’ Brands, Inc.

    149,770       2,835,146  

Brinker International, Inc.

    67,210       2,867,851  

Churchill Downs, Inc.

    16,260       2,007,378  

Denny’s Corp.(a)

    100,130       2,279,459  

Papa John’s International, Inc.

    72,906       3,816,629  

Penn National Gaming, Inc.(a)

    90,009       1,676,418  

Planet Fitness, Inc.(a)

    35,193       2,036,619  

Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc.

    109,000       2,225,235  

Texas Roadhouse, Inc.–Class A

    40,405       2,122,071  

Wingstop, Inc.

    33,750       2,945,700  
   

 

 

 
      24,812,506  
   

 

 

 
Household Durables–1.8%

 

Helen of Troy Ltd.(a)

    17,200       2,711,752  

Lovesac Co. (The)(a)

    91,540       1,709,052  

Meritage Homes Corp.(a)

    55,760       3,922,716  

Skyline Champion Corp.(a)

    96,560       2,905,490  

Taylor Morrison Home Corp.–Class A(a)

    97,200       2,521,368  

TopBuild Corp.(a)

    32,470       3,131,082  
   

 

 

 
      16,901,460  
   

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail–0.3%

 

Etsy, Inc.(a)

    44,780       2,530,070  
   

 

 

 
Leisure Products–0.7%

 

 

Callaway Golf Co.

    138,820     2,694,496  

MasterCraft Boat Holdings, Inc.(a)

    101,165       1,509,888  

Sturm Ruger & Co., Inc.

    13,900       580,464  

YETI Holdings, Inc.(a)

    64,064       1,793,792  
   

 

 

 
      6,578,640  
   

 

 

 
Specialty Retail–2.5%

 

Aaron’s, Inc.

    58,004       3,727,337  

Children’s Place, Inc. (The)

    18,448       1,420,312  

Citi Trends, Inc.

    63,440       1,160,952  

Five Below, Inc.(a)

    12,554       1,583,059  

Genesco, Inc.(a)

    55,844       2,234,877  

Lithia Motors, Inc.–Class A

    25,100       3,322,738  

Signet Jewelers Ltd.

    168,090       2,817,188  

Sleep Number Corp.(a)

    96,233       3,976,348  

Williams-Sonoma, Inc.

    16,710       1,135,946  

Zumiez, Inc.(a)

    50,209       1,590,370  
   

 

 

 
      22,969,127  
   

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods–1.2%

 

Crocs, Inc.(a)

    85,154       2,363,875  

Deckers Outdoor Corp.(a)

    19,740       2,908,886  

Fossil Group, Inc.(a)

    106,840       1,336,568  

Skechers U.S.A., Inc.–Class A(a)

    93,622       3,496,782  

Vera Bradley, Inc.(a)

    131,550       1,328,655  
   

 

 

 
      11,434,766  
   

 

 

 
      108,217,371  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Real Estate–7.4%

 

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)–6.7%

 

Agree Realty Corp.

    14,697       1,075,086  

Alexander & Baldwin, Inc.

    60,840       1,491,188  

American Assets Trust, Inc.

    81,600       3,813,984  

American Campus Communities, Inc.

    40,840       1,963,587  

Americold Realty Trust

    68,943       2,555,717  

Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc.

    138,538       2,506,152  

CareTrust REIT, Inc.

    92,740       2,179,854  

CorEnergy Infrastructure Trust, Inc.

    63,460       2,996,581  

Cousins Properties, Inc.

    65,278       2,453,800  

CubeSmart

    55,990       1,954,051  

First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc.

    77,170       3,052,845  

Getty Realty Corp.

    47,570       1,525,094  

Innovative Industrial Properties, Inc.

    30,918       2,855,896  

National Storage Affiliates Trust

    72,530       2,420,326  

NexPoint Residential Trust, Inc.

    33,500       1,566,460  

Park Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

    120,313       3,004,216  

Preferred Apartment Communities, Inc.–Class A

    137,393       1,985,329  

RLJ Lodging Trust

    248,148       4,216,035  

Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc.

    47,700       3,902,337  

Sabra Health Care REIT, Inc.

    142,560       3,273,178  

STAG Industrial, Inc.

    111,190       3,277,881  

Summit Hotel Properties, Inc.

    141,660       1,643,256  

Sun Communities, Inc.

    14,130       2,097,598  

 

   
16   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  

Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc.

    136,420     $ 1,874,411  

Xenia Hotels & Resorts, Inc.

    154,800       3,269,376  
   

 

 

 
      62,954,238  
   

 

 

 
Real Estate Management & Development–0.7%

 

Marcus & Millichap, Inc.(a)

    71,181       2,526,214  

RE/MAX Holdings, Inc.–Class A

    80,780       2,597,885  

RMR Group, Inc. (The)–Class A

    38,380       1,745,522  
   

 

 

 
      6,869,621  
   

 

 

 
      69,823,859  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Energy–4.0%

 

Energy Equipment & Services–1.2%

 

Apergy Corp.(a)

    84,040       2,273,282  

Cactus, Inc.–Class A(a)

    81,190       2,349,638  

DMC Global, Inc.

    51,850       2,280,363  

Matrix Service Co.(a)

    125,900       2,157,926  

Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc.

    238,696       2,040,851  
   

 

 

 
      11,102,060  
   

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels–2.8%

 

Arch Coal, Inc.

    29,600       2,196,320  

CONSOL Energy, Inc.(a)

    107,530       1,680,694  

CVR Energy, Inc.

    63,610       2,800,748  

Delek US Holdings, Inc.

    81,310       2,951,553  

HollyFrontier Corp.

    28,470       1,527,131  

Par Pacific Holdings, Inc.(a)

    89,807       2,052,988  

Peabody Energy Corp.

    176,452       2,597,373  

QEP Resources, Inc.

    205,410       760,017  

Renewable Energy Group, Inc.(a)

    161,162       2,418,236  

REX American Resources Corp.(a)

    25,250       1,927,332  

SM Energy Co.

    234,030       2,267,751  

Texas Pacific Land Trust

    2,508       1,629,122  

W&T Offshore, Inc.(a)

    302,640       1,322,537  
   

 

 

 
      26,131,802  
   

 

 

 
      37,233,862  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Utilities–3.9%

 

Electric Utilities–1.6%

 

ALLETE, Inc.

    45,180       3,949,184  

Otter Tail Corp.

    58,980       3,170,175  

PNM Resources, Inc.

    17,072       889,109  

Portland General Electric Co.

    86,070       4,851,766  

Spark Energy, Inc.

    169,802       1,791,411  
   

 

 

 
      14,651,645  
   

 

 

 
Gas Utilities–0.6%

 

Chesapeake Utilities Corp.

    19,770       1,884,477  

New Jersey Resources Corp.

    43,100       1,948,982  

ONE Gas, Inc.

    22,030       2,117,303  
   

 

 

 
      5,950,762  
   

 

 

 
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers–0.7%

 

Atlantic Power Corp.(a)

    655,341       1,533,498  

Ormat Technologies, Inc.

    45,920     3,411,397  

Vistra Energy Corp.

    69,494       1,857,574  
   

 

 

 
      6,802,469  
   

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities–0.5%

 

Avista Corp.

    64,971       3,147,195  

NorthWestern Corp.

    22,770       1,708,889  
   

 

 

 
      4,856,084  
   

 

 

 
Water Utilities–0.5%

 

AquaVenture Holdings Ltd.(a)

    101,253       1,967,346  

Consolidated Water Co., Ltd.

    143,494       2,366,216  
   

 

 

 
      4,333,562  
   

 

 

 
          36,594,522  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Materials–3.9%

 

Chemicals–1.6%

 

Huntsman Corp.

    121,268       2,820,694  

Ingevity Corp.(a)

    33,833       2,870,392  

Kronos Worldwide, Inc.

    81,810       1,011,990  

Orion Engineered Carbons SA

    172,420       2,881,138  

Stepan Co.

    10,920       1,059,895  

Trinseo SA

    100,670       4,323,776  
   

 

 

 
      14,967,885  
   

 

 

 
Construction Materials–0.4%

 

Summit Materials, Inc.–Class A(a)

    148,029       3,286,244  
   

 

 

 
Containers & Packaging–0.4%

 

Graphic Packaging Holding Co.

    135,590       1,999,953  

Sealed Air Corp.

    37,545       1,558,493  
   

 

 

 
      3,558,446  
   

 

 

 
Metals & Mining–0.8%

 

Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc.

    295,510       2,133,582  

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc.–Class A

    99,487       2,055,401  

Warrior Met Coal, Inc.

    166,580       3,251,642  
   

 

 

 
      7,440,625  
   

 

 

 
Paper & Forest Products–0.7%

 

Boise Cascade Co.

    56,779       1,850,428  

Louisiana-Pacific Corp.

    145,126       3,567,197  

Verso Corp.(a)

    122,430       1,515,683  
   

 

 

 
      6,933,308  
   

 

 

 
      36,186,508  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Consumer Staples–2.8%

 

Beverages–0.4%

 

Boston Beer Co., Inc. (The)–Class A(a)

    9,930       3,615,314  
   

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing–0.5%

 

SpartanNash Co.

    87,317       1,032,960  

US Foods Holding Corp.(a)

    49,860       2,049,246  

Village Super Market, Inc.–Class A

    80,630       2,132,664  
   

 

 

 
      5,214,870  
   

 

 

 

 

   
2019 Annual Report     17  


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments (continued)

 

     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  
Food Products–1.4%

 

 

Calavo Growers, Inc.

    33,035     $ 3,144,271  

Fresh Del Monte Produce, Inc.

    75,168       2,563,980  

Hain Celestial Group, Inc. (The)(a)

    135,170       2,902,776  

John B Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.

    23,440       2,264,304  

Nomad Foods Ltd.(a)

    108,850       2,231,425  
   

 

 

 
      13,106,756  
   

 

 

 
Household Products–0.2%

 

Central Garden & Pet Co.–Class A(a)

    75,531       2,094,097  
   

 

 

 
Personal Products–0.2%

 

Medifast, Inc.

    18,318       1,898,294  
   

 

 

 
Tobacco–0.1%

 

Turning Point Brands, Inc.

    29,060       670,124  
   

 

 

 
      26,599,455  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Communication Services–2.2%

 

Diversified Telecommunication Services–0.3%

 

Vonage Holdings Corp.(a)

    235,380       2,659,794  
   

 

 

 
Entertainment–0.2%

 

 

MSG Networks, Inc.(a)

    85,430     1,385,675  
   

 

 

 
Media–1.3%

 

Entravision Communications Corp.–Class A

    439,490       1,397,578  

Gray Television, Inc.(a)

    139,930       2,283,658  

Nexstar Media Group, Inc.–Class A

    23,610       2,415,539  

Sinclair Broadcast Group, Inc.–Class A

    54,284       2,320,098  

TEGNA, Inc.

    267,940       4,161,108  
   

 

 

 
      12,577,981  
   

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services–0.4%

 

Shenandoah Telecommunications Co.

    64,263       2,041,635  

Telephone & Data Systems, Inc.

    74,247       1,915,573  
   

 

 

 
      3,957,208  
   

 

 

 
      20,580,658  
   

 

 

 
Total Investments—99.7%
(cost $875,870,973)
      932,751,959  

Other assets less liabilities—0.3%

      2,833,773  
   

 

 

 
   
Net Assets—100.0%     $ 935,585,732  
   

 

 

 

 

 
FUTURES (see Note 3)

 

Description    Number of
Contracts
     Expiration
Month
   Current
Notional
     Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)
 
Purchased Contracts

 

Russell 2000 E Mini Futures

     238      December 2019    $   18,147,500      $   (670,416)  

 

 

(a)   Non-income producing security.

 

Glossary:

ADR—American Depositary Receipt

REIT—Real Estate Investment Trust

See notes to financial statements.

 

   
18   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments

 

Bernstein Fund, Inc.

Schedule of Investments

International Small Cap Portfolio

September 30, 2019

 

Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  
COMMON STOCKS–97.8%

 

Industrials–18.4%

 

Aerospace & Defense–1.7%

 

Bombardier, Inc.–Class B(a)

    3,359,079     $ 4,538,439  

Embraer SA

    1,817,000       7,832,217  

Saab AB–Class B

    314,951       9,035,641  
   

 

 

 
      21,406,297  
   

 

 

 
Air Freight & Logistics–0.2%

 

Oesterreichische Post AG

    83,587       2,933,480  
   

 

 

 
Airlines–1.1%

 

Air New Zealand Ltd.

    4,622,044       8,107,501  

Controladora Vuela Cia de Aviacion SAB de CV–Class A(a)

    2,800,270       2,806,797  

Wizz Air Holdings PLC(a)(b)

    76,398       3,395,188  
   

 

 

 
      14,309,486  
   

 

 

 
Building Products–0.2%

 

GWA Group Ltd.

    1,080,770       2,474,096  
   

 

 

 
Commercial Services & Supplies–3.3%

 

Befesa SA(b)

    166,039       5,932,276  

Biffa PLC(b)

    2,334,460       6,788,340  

Cewe Stiftung & Co. KGAA

    29,660       2,491,451  

Kokuyo Co., Ltd.

    539,446       7,563,394  

Rentokil Initial PLC

    2,258,807       12,986,861  

RPS Group PLC

    1,111,640       2,009,054  

SPIE SA

    152,380       3,049,153  
   

 

 

 
        40,820,529  
   

 

 

 
Construction & Engineering–1.5%

 

Aecon Group, Inc.

    174,400       2,401,069  

Burkhalter Holding AG

    36,034       2,599,990  

Daiho Corp.

    78,500       2,080,814  

Koninklijke Volkerwessels NV

    143,860       2,546,436  

Maire Tecnimont SpA

    619,440       1,557,712  

Mirait Holdings Corp.

    112,700       1,704,333  

Morgan Sindall Group PLC

    195,440       2,926,892  

Tokyu Construction Co., Ltd.

    132,000       1,014,184  

Yurtec Corp.

    309,100       1,884,068  
   

 

 

 
      18,715,498  
   

 

 

 
Electrical Equipment–0.7%

 

TKH Group NV

    163,987       8,171,471  
   

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates–1.4%

 

Mytilineos SA

    685,222       7,156,242  

Rheinmetall AG

    84,091       10,636,904  
   

 

 

 
      17,793,146  
   

 

 

 
Machinery–2.1%

 

Deutz AG

    1,003,833       5,819,812  

FLSmidth & Co. A/S

    147,906       6,434,122  

Glory Ltd.

    208,348     5,855,943  

IMA Industria Macchine Automatiche SpA

    33,973       2,377,378  

Kardex AG

    19,730       2,724,256  

Rational AG

    4,221       3,026,857  
   

 

 

 
      26,238,368  
   

 

 

 
Professional Services–3.8%

 

Amadeus Fire AG

    20,240       2,238,736  

Intertrust NV(b)

    450,617       8,815,190  

IPH Ltd.

    515,650       3,033,305  

L&T Technology Services Ltd.(b)

    184,102       3,935,776  

Meitec Corp.

    166,500       8,181,709  

NICE Information Service Co., Ltd.

    219,190       2,409,821  

TeamLease Services Ltd.(a)

    69,770       3,004,497  

Teleperformance

    39,471       8,552,453  

UT Group Co., Ltd.

    348,400       7,506,596  
   

 

 

 
      47,678,083  
   

 

 

 
Road & Rail–0.3%

 

Nobina AB(b)

    468,060       2,925,176  

Sankyu, Inc.

    26,500       1,374,937  
   

 

 

 
      4,300,113  
   

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors–1.6%

 

BOC Aviation Ltd.(b)

    837,300       7,727,475  

Daiichi Jitsugyo Co., Ltd.

    46,200       1,331,695  

Inaba Denki Sangyo Co., Ltd.

    63,800       2,801,544  

SIG PLC

    1,757,470       2,717,913  

Sojitz Corp.

    1,019,200       3,170,604  

Yuasa Trading Co., Ltd.

    82,600       2,364,492  
   

 

 

 
      20,113,723  
   

 

 

 
Transportation Infrastructure–0.5%

 

Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd

    2,930,900       6,054,618  
   

 

 

 
      231,008,908  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Consumer Discretionary–12.6%

 

Auto Components–2.7%

 

Aisan Industry Co., Ltd.

    162,400       1,386,094  

Cie Plastic Omnium SA

    142,850       3,922,031  

Faurecia SE

    159,334       7,553,393  

GUD Holdings Ltd.

    413,530       2,809,935  

Kasai Kogyo Co., Ltd.

    224,100       1,608,240  

NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.

    411,194       7,889,483  

Tianneng Power International Ltd.

    2,326,000       1,638,710  

Toyo Tire Corp.

    515,694       6,552,182  
   

 

 

 
      33,360,068  
   

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services–0.8%

 

YDUQS Part

    1,188,600       10,321,349  
   

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure–3.5%

 

Bloomberry Resorts Corp.

    48,303,694       10,115,724  

Collins Foods Ltd.

    458,780       3,101,777  

Greggs PLC

    105,290       2,706,889  

GVC Holdings PLC

    952,949       8,704,610  

Kindred Group PLC (SDR)

    465,200       2,715,181  

Recipe Unlimited Corp.

    72,890       1,440,909  

 

   
2019 Annual Report     19  


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments (continued)

 

     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  

Round One Corp.

    144,100     $ 2,160,945  

Sushiro Global Holdings Ltd.

    201,420       13,559,655  
   

 

 

 
      44,505,690  
   

 

 

 
Household Durables–0.4%

 

Dorel Industries, Inc.–Class B

    203,490       1,396,176  

Haseko Corp.

    289,500       3,385,762  
   

 

 

 
      4,781,938  
   

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail–0.2%

 

Moneysupermarket.com Group PLC

    654,618       3,044,318  
   

 

 

 
Leisure Products–1.6%

 

BRP, Inc.

    213,388       8,302,941  

Games Workshop Group PLC

    49,890       2,889,872  

Spin Master Corp.(a)(b)

    293,033       8,953,448  
   

 

 

 
      20,146,261  
   

 

 

 
Specialty Retail–1.4%

 

CECONOMY AG(a)

    170,970       924,652  

Clas Ohlson AB–Class B

    296,750       2,847,206  

EDION Corp.

    261,900       2,531,555  

Geo Holdings Corp.

    170,200       2,025,913  

Giordano International Ltd.

    7,766,000       2,258,555  

Kohnan Shoji Co., Ltd.

    39,200       867,855  

Senao International Co., Ltd.

    906,000       893,537  

Super Retail Group Ltd.

    432,730       2,897,699  

T-Gaia Corp.

    111,500       2,258,248  
   

 

 

 
      17,505,220  
   

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods–2.0%

 

Bosideng International Holdings Ltd.

    21,688,000       9,235,974  

China Lilang Ltd.

    2,173,000       1,729,353  

Handsome Co., Ltd.

    86,230       2,103,356  

HUGO BOSS AG

    147,617       7,903,230  

JNBY Design Ltd.(b)

    1,374,500       1,977,235  

LF Corp.

    101,620       1,716,597  
   

 

 

 
      24,665,745  
   

 

 

 
      158,330,589  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Information Technology–11.7%

 

Communications Equipment–0.2%

 

VTech Holdings Ltd.

    258,800       2,258,668  
   

 

 

 
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components–2.3%

 

AT&S Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik AG

    288,944       4,962,992  

Egis Technology, Inc.

    237,000       2,019,898  

Electrocomponents PLC

    425,960       3,367,539  

Inficon Holding AG

    4,440       2,878,865  

Kaga Electronics Co., Ltd.

    56,100       1,010,118  

LEM Holding SA

    2,020       2,409,284  

Ryoyo Electro Corp.

    158,700       2,722,269  

Spectris PLC

    274,385       8,236,433  

Test Research, Inc.

    657,000       1,045,911  
   

 

 

 
      28,653,309  
   

 

 

 
IT Services–5.1%

 

 

Altran Technologies SA

    797,472     12,520,407  

CANCOM SE

    51,120       2,754,113  

Computacenter PLC

    125,860       1,996,872  

Equiniti Group PLC(b)

    2,761,545       7,362,229  

Firstsource Solutions Ltd.

    7,003,432       4,655,266  

Indra Sistemas SA(a)

    74,930       648,756  

NEC Networks & System Integration Corp.

    515,200       14,030,648  

NET One Systems Co., Ltd.

    73,300       1,988,527  

Nihon Unisys Ltd.

    378,439       12,232,252  

Softcat PLC

    240,140       2,958,746  

Tieto Oyj

    111,010       2,843,392  
   

 

 

 
      63,991,208  
   

 

 

 
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment–3.4%

 

ASPEED Technology, Inc.

    69,000       1,752,211  

BE Semiconductor Industries NV

    49,244       1,540,416  

Dialog Semiconductor PLC(a)

    69,410       3,287,318  

Hua Hong Semiconductor Ltd.(b)

    3,105,000       6,183,120  

Machvision, Inc.

    196,000       2,037,830  

Melexis NV

    35,140       2,437,184  

Novatek Microelectronics Corp.

    1,413,000       8,108,845  

SCREEN Holdings Co., Ltd.

    178,100       10,607,843  

Siltronic AG

    83,607       6,351,585  

Sino-American Silicon Products, Inc.

    353,000       932,661  
   

 

 

 
      43,239,013  
   

 

 

 
Software–0.4%

 

Enghouse Systems Ltd.

    106,100       2,923,086  

SimCorp A/S

    21,310       1,871,625  
   

 

 

 
      4,794,711  
   

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals–0.3%

 

Aten International Co., Ltd.

    868,000       2,403,591  

Gigabyte Technology Co., Ltd.

    630,000       1,007,573  

Roland DG Corp.

    40,200       745,777  
   

 

 

 
      4,156,941  
   

 

 

 
          147,093,850  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Financials–10.8%

 

Banks–4.6%

 

Bank Pembangunan Daerah Jawa Timur Tbk PT

    58,915,000       2,636,662  

Hokuhoku Financial Group, Inc.

    159,500       1,550,619  

Israel Discount Bank Ltd.–Class A

    2,811,447       12,356,842  

Kiatnakin Bank PCL

    1,197,700       2,584,541  

Miyazaki Bank Ltd. (The)

    96,500       2,173,374  

NIBC Holding NV(b)

    302,470       2,366,095  

Norwegian Finans Holding ASA(a)

    1,313,573       11,084,925  

Shikoku Bank Ltd. (The)

    154,200       1,406,479  

Spar Nord Bank A/S

    317,550       2,860,289  

SpareBank 1 Nord Norge

    363,790       2,716,313  

SpareBank 1 SMN

    260,180       2,818,305  

SpareBank 1 SR-Bank ASA

    658,431       7,169,112  

Tisco Financial Group PCL

    846,400       2,836,554  

 

   
20   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  

TOMONY Holdings, Inc.

    314,300     $ 1,023,931  

Towa Bank Ltd. (The)

    280,800       2,066,008  
   

 

 

 
      57,650,049  
   

 

 

 
Capital Markets–2.8%

 

Alaris Royalty Corp.

    167,660       2,491,773  

Ashmore Group PLC

    462,670       2,878,539  

Bolsa Mexicana de Valores SAB de CV

    1,423,350       2,686,723  

Euronext NV(b)

    42,592       3,487,473  

Intermediate Capital Group PLC

    474,636       8,487,230  

Kyokuto Securities Co., Ltd.

    90,300       722,543  

Man Group PLC/Jersey

    1,469,790       3,155,520  

TP ICAP PLC

    2,131,302       8,922,367  

Warsaw Stock Exchange

    277,360       2,776,617  
   

 

 

 
      35,608,785  
   

 

 

 
Consumer Finance–0.9%

 

Jaccs Co., Ltd.

    131,700       2,791,888  

Muthoot Finance Ltd.

    702,678       6,755,783  

Sun Hung Kai & Co., Ltd.

    4,673,000       2,022,070  
   

 

 

 
      11,569,741  
   

 

 

 
Insurance–1.5%

 

ASR Nederland NV

    240,323       8,867,814  

Beazley PLC

    849,796       6,494,590  

Panin Financial Tbk PT(a)

    109,390,000       2,388,144  

Unipol Gruppo SpA

    287,980       1,533,419  
   

 

 

 
      19,283,967  
   

 

 

 
Thrifts & Mortgage Finance–1.0%

 

Charter Court Financial Services Group PLC(b)

    749,290       2,786,900  

Deutsche Pfandbriefbank AG(b)

    232,220       2,831,188  

Genworth MI Canada, Inc.

    87,391       3,469,650  

OneSavings Bank PLC

    618,720       2,810,199  
   

 

 

 
      11,897,937  
   

 

 

 
          136,010,479  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Consumer Staples–9.5%

 

Beverages–1.5%

 

Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Bhd

    471,700       2,958,328  

Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan Holdings, Inc.

    332,600       7,478,881  

Royal Unibrew A/S

    107,520       8,858,572  
   

 

 

 
      19,295,781  
   

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing–0.5%

 

Arcs Co., Ltd.

    117,500       2,470,613  

Axfood AB

    139,420       2,960,082  

cocokara fine, Inc.

    26,700       1,442,447  
   

 

 

 
      6,873,142  
   

 

 

 
Food Products–6.7%

 

Astral Foods Ltd.

    240,250       2,331,908  

Austevoll Seafood ASA

    720,670       6,843,817  

Calbee, Inc.

    289,600       9,033,523  

Feed One Co., Ltd.

    1,471,100       2,211,423  

Greencore Group PLC

    3,637,595       10,084,074  

Maeil Dairies Co., Ltd.

    37,310       2,872,759  

Morinaga Milk Industry Co., Ltd.

    208,924     7,985,911  

Nichirei Corp.

    416,039       9,505,843  

Orion Corp./Republic of Korea

    98,658       8,106,036  

Scandi Standard AB

    422,020       2,953,782  

Showa Sangyo Co., Ltd.

    95,700       2,717,213  

Uni-President China Holdings Ltd.

    9,082,000       9,798,625  

Yihai International Holding Ltd.(a)

    1,561,000       9,278,637  
   

 

 

 
      83,723,551  
   

 

 

 
Personal Products–0.8%

 

TCI Co., Ltd.

    1,011,024       10,169,764  
   

 

 

 
      120,062,238  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Real Estate–8.6%

 

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)–3.9%

 

AEON REIT Investment Corp.

    1,302       1,792,997  

Allied Properties Real Estate Investment Trust

    167,605       6,777,069  

Dream Global Real Estate Investment Trust

    161,970       2,031,884  

Frasers Logistics & Industrial Trust(b)

    2,036,400       1,826,998  

Green REIT PLC

    876,430       1,820,755  

H&R Real Estate Investment Trust

    468,580       8,180,741  

Heiwa Real Estate REIT, Inc.

    1,527       1,965,882  

Immobiliare Grande Distribuzione SIIQ SpA

    275,830       1,689,602  

Inmobiliaria Colonial Socimi SA

    566,384       6,833,430  

Invincible Investment Corp.

    3,133       1,934,789  

Kenedix Residential Next Investment Corp.

    953       1,879,118  

Killam Apartment Real Estate Investment Trust

    700,698       10,593,638  

Mapletree North Asia Commercial Trust(b)

    1,844,100       1,762,269  
   

 

 

 
      49,089,172  
   

 

 

 
Real Estate Management & Development–4.7%

 

ADO Properties SA(b)

    197,625       8,142,174  

Altus Group Ltd./Canada

    39,790       1,199,842  

BR Properties SA(a)

    681,300       1,933,243  

CA Immobilien Anlagen AG

    362,353       12,855,517  

China Overseas Property Holdings Ltd.

    5,215,000       2,575,231  

Dongwon Development Co., Ltd.

    693,495       2,552,517  

Greenland Hong Kong Holdings Ltd.

    4,755,000       1,626,277  

Hung Sheng Construction Ltd.(a)

    972,600       623,648  

Nexity SA

    63,040       3,000,853  

Origin Property PCL–Class F

    9,383,200       2,392,969  

Road King Infrastructure Ltd.

    1,302,000       2,199,383  

TLG Immobilien AG

    333,569       9,071,162  

UOL Group Ltd.

    1,494,200       8,114,174  

Watkin Jones PLC

    1,082,430       2,994,528  
   

 

 

 
      59,281,518  
   

 

 

 
          108,370,690  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Communication Services–6.8%

 

Diversified Telecommunication Services–1.9%

 

Cogeco Communications, Inc.

    124,706       10,050,089  

Masmovil Ibercom SA(a)

    380,131       7,717,506  

Megacable Holdings SAB de CV

    1,478,990       5,957,480  
   

 

 

 
      23,725,075  
   

 

 

 

 

   
2019 Annual Report     21  


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments (continued)

 

     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  
Entertainment–3.2%

 

 

Akatsuki, Inc.

    175,700     $ 10,891,225  

Capcom Co., Ltd.

    32,700       870,330  

Entertainment One Ltd.

    2,225,574       15,477,172  

Soft-World International Corp.

    505,000       1,337,399  

Toei Animation Co., Ltd.

    244,758       11,132,587  
   

 

 

 
      39,708,713  
   

 

 

 
Interactive Media & Services–0.3%

 

Addcn Technology Co., Ltd.

    119,000       947,045  

Mixi, Inc.

    124,700       2,632,630  
   

 

 

 
      3,579,675  
   

 

 

 
Media–1.2%

 

APG SGA SA

    9,414       2,545,768  

Corus Entertainment, Inc.–Class B

    719,520       2,872,975  

IPSOS

    106,011       3,019,861  

Mediaset Espana Comunicacion SA

    456,290       2,941,171  

oOh!media Ltd.

    2,104,792       4,067,953  
   

 

 

 
      15,447,728  
   

 

 

 
Wireless Telecommunication Services–0.2%

 

Orange Belgium SA

    117,160       2,418,379  
   

 

 

 
          84,879,570  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Materials–6.5%

 

Chemicals–1.4%

 

AECI Ltd.

    424,710       2,690,998  

China General Plastics Corp.

    1,429,612       915,293  

Dongyue Group Ltd.

    2,004,000       937,886  

Ercros SA

    344,170       771,458  

Nantex Industry Co., Ltd.

    2,464,597       2,487,592  

Tosoh Corp.

    537,200       7,156,491  

Ube Industries Ltd.

    132,000       2,681,605  
   

 

 

 
      17,641,323  
   

 

 

 
Construction Materials–0.2%

 

CSR Ltd.

    974,960       2,812,503  
   

 

 

 
Metals & Mining–4.4%

 

APERAM SA

    237,784       5,779,433  

BlueScope Steel Ltd.

    891,803       7,243,562  

Granges AB

    274,662       2,802,947  

Labrador Iron Ore Royalty Corp.

    118,420       2,201,520  

Largo Resources Ltd.(a)

    1,824,240       2,024,103  

Lundin Mining Corp.

    1,218,043       5,727,749  

Mitsui Mining & Smelting Co., Ltd.

    125,900       3,005,556  

Nippon Light Metal Holdings Co., Ltd.

    525,700       949,041  

Northern Star Resources Ltd.

    1,096,887       8,152,065  

OZ Minerals Ltd.

    1,294,358       8,407,394  

Sims Metal Management Ltd.

    374,702       2,633,299  

Stelco Holdings, Inc.

    243,240       1,700,119  

Yamato Kogyo Co., Ltd.

    214,383       5,344,517  
   

 

 

 
      55,971,305  
   

 

 

 
Paper & Forest Products–0.5%

 

 

Nippon Paper Industries Co., Ltd.

    81,000     1,323,580  

Norbord, Inc.

    119,910       2,874,545  

Western Forest Products, Inc.

    1,798,960       1,629,431  
   

 

 

 
      5,827,556  
   

 

 

 
      82,252,687  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Health Care–5.9%

 

Biotechnology–0.7%

 

BioGaia AB–Class B

    64,930       2,851,470  

Hugel, Inc.(a)

    18,584       5,981,558  
   

 

 

 
      8,833,028  
   

 

 

 
Health Care Equipment & Supplies–2.4%

 

Ansell Ltd.

    531,954       9,847,207  

Arjo AB–Class B

    700,620       2,654,386  

Getinge AB–Class B

    874,879       12,229,095  

St. Shine Optical Co., Ltd.

    351,000       5,005,452  
   

 

 

 
      29,736,140  
   

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services–1.1%

 

Galenica AG(a)(b)

    59,720       3,430,071  

Humana AB

    475,850       2,683,888  

Medical Facilities Corp.

    283,450       1,718,008  

Qualicorp Consultoria e Corretora de Seguros SA

    486,100       3,638,482  

Vital KSK Holdings, Inc.

    277,500       2,695,587  
   

 

 

 
      14,166,036  
   

 

 

 
Health Care Technology–0.1%

 

Ascom Holding AG

    138,381       1,431,635  
   

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals–1.6%

 

Almirall SA

    340,708       5,960,357  

Boiron SA

    61,480       2,177,830  

Chong Kun Dang Pharmaceutical Corp.

    14,406       1,003,662  

Daewon Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

    13,947       177,698  

Faes Farma SA

    565,876       2,889,460  

Huons Co., Ltd.

    31,580       1,117,435  

Samjin Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

    59,239       1,245,927  

Tsumura & Co.

    192,578       5,174,434  
   

 

 

 
      19,746,803  
   

 

 

 
          73,913,642  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Energy–3.6%

 

Energy Equipment & Services–0.2%

 

Kvaerner ASA

    1,923,140       2,460,735  
   

 

 

 
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels–3.4%

 

Aker BP ASA

    242,693       6,466,712  

Beach Energy Ltd.

    5,972,183       10,194,009  

Itochu Enex Co., Ltd.

    310,500       2,367,390  

Motor Oil Hellas Corinth Refineries SA

    485,124       11,321,259  

Parex Resources, Inc.(a)

    180,330       2,763,105  

Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp.

    2,869,100       1,787,998  

 

   
22   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  

Premier Oil PLC(a)

    5,006,183     $ 4,785,391  

Saras SpA

    1,368,060       2,339,778  

Whitehaven Coal Ltd.

    254,600       535,457  
   

 

 

 
      42,561,099  
   

 

 

 
      45,021,834  
   

 

 

 
   
   
Utilities–3.4%

 

       
Electric Utilities–1.5%

 

Contact Energy Ltd.

    1,614,255       8,633,543  

Genesis Energy Ltd.

    4,780,205       10,239,065  
   

 

 

 
      18,872,608  
   

 

 

 
Gas Utilities–0.2%

 

Shizuoka Gas Co., Ltd.

    322,400       2,749,915  
   

 

 

 
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers–1.0%

 

Capital Power Corp.

    429,429       9,944,433  

First Gen Corp.

    5,327,700       2,529,101  
   

 

 

 
      12,473,534  
   

 

 

 
Multi-Utilities–0.7%

 

 

Hera SpA

    808,310       3,317,049  

Iren SpA

    1,064,190     3,103,931  

Telecom Plus PLC

    169,010       2,552,179  
   

 

 

 
      8,973,159  
   

 

 

 
      43,069,216  
   

 

 

 
Total Common Stocks
(cost $1,190,304,589)
      1,230,013,703  
   

 

 

 
   
   
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS–2.4%

 

       
Investment Companies–2.4%

 

AB Fixed Income Shares, Inc.–Government Money Market Portfolio–Class AB, 1.89%(c)(d)(e)
(cost $29,939,901)

    29,939,901       29,939,901  
   

 

 

 
Total Investments—100.2%
(cost $1,220,244,490)

 

    1,259,953,604  

Other assets less liabilities—(0.2)%

      (2,629,995
   

 

 

 
   
Net Assets—100.0%     $ 1,257,323,609  
   

 

 

 

 

       
FORWARD CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS (see Note 3)

 

                          
Counterparty    Contracts to
Deliver
(000)
     In Exchange
For
(000)
     Settlement
Date
     Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)
 

Bank of America, NA

   USD      3,550        INR        252,647        10/24/19      $ 15,665  

Bank of America, NA

   NZD      28,486        USD        18,313        12/16/19        445,029  

Bank of America, NA

   USD      1,742        AUD        2,535        12/16/19        (27,322

Barclays Bank PLC

   CNY      137,390        USD        19,980        10/17/19        638,258  

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      5,586        CNY        38,466        10/17/19        (170,817

Barclays Bank PLC

   INR      253,025        USD        3,533        10/24/19        (38,023

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      3,529        CLP        2,508,873        11/14/19        (85,531

Barclays Bank PLC

   CAD      14,107        USD        10,700        12/16/19        38,483  

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      19,712        CHF        19,326        12/16/19        (220,156

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      8,935        GBP        7,131        12/16/19        (140,505

Citibank, NA

   USD      19,508        INR        1,353,922        10/24/19        (401,172

Citibank, NA

   USD      2,361        RUB        152,291        11/14/19        (24,917

Citibank, NA

   PHP      270,933        USD        5,200        12/06/19        (16,486

Citibank, NA

   NOK      128,432        USD        14,353        12/16/19        219,204  

Citibank, NA

   USD      17,874        GBP        14,394        12/16/19        (121,880

Citibank, NA

   USD      7,287        SEK        70,361        12/16/19        (102,994

Natwest Markets PLC

   USD      3,031        KRW        3,661,824        10/30/19        24,843  

Natwest Markets PLC

   USD      3,049        EUR        2,742        12/16/19        (43,137

Natwest Markets PLC

   USD      28,714        JPY        3,061,181        12/16/19        (253,250

Natwest Markets PLC

   USD      2,177        TRY        13,002        12/16/19        70,084  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   USD      5,804        KRW        7,001,506        10/30/19        39,307  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   USD      6,790        TWD        211,076        11/27/19        38,254  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   EUR      9,706        USD        10,770        12/16/19          129,828  

 

   
2019 Annual Report     23  


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments (continued)

 

Counterparty    Contracts to
Deliver
(000)
     In Exchange
For
(000)
     Settlement
Date
     Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)
 

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   GBP      3,552        USD        4,383        12/16/19      $ 2,414  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   NOK      68,011        USD        7,501        12/16/19        16,292  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   USD      4,849        THB        148,320        12/16/19        7,329  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   USD      11,018        ZAR        164,072        12/17/19        (290,288

UBS AG

   EUR      40,994        USD        45,598        12/16/19        659,053  
                 

 

 

 
   $ 407,565  
                 

 

 

 

 

 

(a)   Non-income producing security.
(b)   Security is exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. These securities are considered restricted, but liquid and may be resold in transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At September 30, 2019, the aggregate market value of these securities amounted to $90,628,621 or 7.2% of net assets.
(c)   Affiliated investments.
(d)   The rate shown represents the 7-day yield as of period end.
(e)   To obtain a copy of the fund’s shareholder report, please go to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov, or call AB at (800) 227-4618.

Currency Abbreviations:

AUD—Australian Dollar

CAD—Canadian Dollar

CHF—Swiss Franc

CLP—Chilean Peso

CNY—Chinese Yuan Renminbi

EUR—Euro

GBP—Great British Pound

INR—Indian Rupee

JPY—Japanese Yen

KRW—South Korean Won

NOK—Norwegian Krone

NZD—New Zealand Dollar

PHP—Philippine Peso

RUB—Russian Ruble

SEK—Swedish Krona

THB—Thailand Baht

TRY—Turkish Lira

TWD—New Taiwan Dollar

USD—United States Dollar

ZAR—South African Rand

Glossary:

REIT—Real Estate Investment Trust

SDR—Swedish Depositary Receipt

See notes to financial statements.

 

   
24   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments

 

Bernstein Fund, Inc.

Schedule of Investments

International Strategic Equities Portfolio

September 30, 2019

 

Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  
COMMON STOCKS–98.9%

 

Financials–17.1%

 

Banks–7.8%

 

Bank Hapoalim BM(a)

    2,848,240     $ 22,442,221  

China CITIC Bank Corp., Ltd.–Class H

    76,369,000       40,717,119  

DBS Group Holdings Ltd.

    2,292,800       41,479,293  

Erste Group Bank AG(a)

    842,460       27,842,951  

Hana Financial Group, Inc.

    1,489,730       43,853,115  

Jyske Bank A/S(a)

    824,600       26,627,644  

KB Financial Group, Inc.

    532,470       19,004,639  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.

    6,440,100       32,798,525  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.

    946,100       32,509,998  

Turkiye Garanti Bankasi AS(a)

    20,118,430       36,325,266  
   

 

 

 
      323,600,771  
   

 

 

 
Capital Markets–1.8%

 

B3 SA–Brasil Bolsa Balcao

    1,785,200       18,745,900  

Partners Group Holding AG

    44,240       33,974,378  

Singapore Exchange Ltd.

    3,649,000       22,386,738  
   

 

 

 
      75,107,016  
   

 

 

 
Diversified Financial Services–2.1%

 

Fubon Financial Holding Co., Ltd.

    25,233,000       36,227,430  

ORIX Corp.

    3,435,600       51,393,105  
   

 

 

 
      87,620,535  
   

 

 

 
Insurance–4.9%

 

AIA Group Ltd.

    3,851,400       36,322,712  

Allianz SE

    86,450       20,123,132  

ASR Nederland NV

    1,334,640       49,247,632  

NN Group NV

    1,173,390       41,583,269  

Swiss Re AG

    542,630       56,620,052  
   

 

 

 
      203,896,797  
   

 

 

 
Thrifts & Mortgage Finance–0.5%

 

Housing Development Finance Corp., Ltd.

    796,470       22,231,270  
   

 

 

 
      712,456,389  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Consumer Discretionary–12.7%

 

Automobiles–1.6%

 

Peugeot SA

    2,616,850       65,313,270  
   

 

 

 
Diversified Consumer Services–2.7%

 

New Oriental Education & Technology Group, Inc. (Sponsored ADR)(a)

    453,130       50,188,679  

YDUQS Part

    6,968,400       60,510,926  
   

 

 

 
      110,699,605  
   

 

 

 
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure–1.6%

 

Compass Group PLC

    1,418,390       36,498,997  

OPAP SA

    2,753,690     28,327,044  
   

 

 

 
      64,826,041  
   

 

 

 
Household Durables–1.1%

 

 

Auto Trader Group PLC

    7,570,940       47,452,083  
   

 

 

 
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail–1.8%

 

Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. (Sponsored ADR)(a)

    455,310       76,141,491  
   

 

 

 
Multiline Retail–1.0%

 

Wesfarmers Ltd.

    1,614,110       43,367,621  
   

 

 

 
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods–2.9%

 

adidas AG

    229,970       71,599,851  

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE

    72,990       28,959,485  

Moncler SpA

    519,860       18,529,563  
   

 

 

 
      119,088,899  
   

 

 

 
      526,889,010  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Consumer Staples–12.4%

 

Beverages–1.2%

 

Pernod Ricard SA

    273,990       48,764,979  
   

 

 

 
Food & Staples Retailing–1.7%

 

Coles Group Ltd.

    3,070,430       31,921,748  

Tesco PLC

    13,352,040       39,474,893  
   

 

 

 
      71,396,641  
   

 

 

 
Food Products–6.9%

 

Calbee, Inc.

    696,600       21,729,118  

Nestle SA

    1,357,250       147,199,808  

Orkla ASA

    6,594,410       60,004,586  

Salmar ASA

    669,000       29,370,728  

WH Group Ltd.(b)

    32,117,500       28,763,084  
   

 

 

 
      287,067,324  
   

 

 

 
Household Products–0.8%

 

Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC

    410,050       32,016,448  
   

 

 

 
Personal Products–1.3%

 

TCI Co., Ltd.

    1,538,503       15,475,609  

Unilever PLC

    683,720       41,092,901  
   

 

 

 
      56,568,510  
   

 

 

 
Tobacco–0.5%

 

British American Tobacco PLC

    540,670       19,967,063  
   

 

 

 
      515,780,965  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Information Technology–12.4%

 

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components–0.5%

 

Keyence Corp.

    34,900       21,723,698  
   

 

 

 
IT Services–2.7%

 

Amadeus IT Group SA–Class A

    246,570       17,667,133  

Capgemini SE

    617,360       72,694,862  

Otsuka Corp.

    519,500       20,791,174  
   

 

 

 
      111,153,169  
   

 

 

 

 

   
2019 Annual Report     25  


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments (continued)

 

     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment–3.7%

 

 

ASML Holding NV

    322,690     $ 80,031,463  

Nanya Technology Corp.

    13,112,000       34,056,921  

SK Hynix, Inc.

    599,410       41,167,645  
   

 

 

 
      155,256,029  
   

 

 

 
Software–4.4%

 

 

Check Point Software Technologies Ltd.(a)

    453,280       49,634,160  

Constellation Software, Inc./Canada

    67,900       67,812,873  

Nice Ltd.(a)

    203,640       29,350,365  

Oracle Corp. Japan–Japan

    407,300       35,506,842  
   

 

 

 
      182,304,240  
   

 

 

 
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals–1.1%

 

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

    1,051,880       43,068,204  
   

 

 

 
      513,505,340  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Industrials–11.0%

 

Aerospace & Defense–1.4%

 

Leonardo SpA

    4,987,360       58,626,482  
   

 

 

 
Airlines–2.5%

 

Japan Airlines Co., Ltd.

    1,882,400       55,906,164  

Qantas Airways Ltd.

    11,600,592       49,298,767  
   

 

 

 
          105,204,931  
   

 

 

 
Industrial Conglomerates–0.5%

 

NWS Holdings Ltd.

    13,186,000       20,423,372  
   

 

 

 
Machinery–1.9%

 

IHI Corp.

    1,131,800       24,793,000  

Sany Heavy Industry Co., Ltd.

    26,588,824       53,265,147  
   

 

 

 
      78,058,147  
   

 

 

 
Professional Services–1.9%

 

Recruit Holdings Co., Ltd.

    687,800       21,014,693  

RELX PLC

    1,501,920       35,710,984  

Wolters Kluwer NV

    283,560       20,689,959  
   

 

 

 
      77,415,636  
   

 

 

 
Road & Rail–1.0%

 

Aurizon Holdings Ltd.

    10,902,670       43,461,827  
   

 

 

 
Trading Companies & Distributors–1.8%

 

AerCap Holdings NV(a)

    943,020       51,630,345  

BOC Aviation Ltd.(b)

    2,441,600       22,533,623  
   

 

 

 
      74,163,968  
   

 

 

 
      457,354,363  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Health Care–8.3%

 

Health Care Equipment & Supplies–1.3%

 

Cochlear Ltd.

    254,470       35,810,164  

Koninklijke Philips NV

    429,710       19,856,501  
   

 

 

 
      55,666,665  
   

 

 

 
Health Care Providers & Services–0.6%

 

Sonic Healthcare Ltd.

    1,289,992       24,459,580  
   

 

 

 
Pharmaceuticals–6.4%

 

 

Astellas Pharma, Inc.

    3,946,000       56,444,209  

Novo Nordisk A/S–Class B

    1,618,700     83,648,189  

Roche Holding AG

    435,590       126,828,322  
   

 

 

 
      266,920,720  
   

 

 

 
      347,046,965  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Utilities–6.2%

 

Electric Utilities–5.7%

 

Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras SA

    3,028,000       29,260,087  

Cia de Transmissao de Energia Eletrica Paulista (Preference Shares)

    6,179,400       36,734,782  

Contact Energy Ltd.

    3,936,870       21,055,618  

EDP–Energias de Portugal SA

    13,452,000       52,204,929  

Enel SpA

    13,218,050       98,729,522  
   

 

 

 
      237,984,938  
   

 

 

 
Independent Power and Renewable Electricity Producers–0.5%

 

China Yangtze Power Co., Ltd.–Class A

    7,969,887       20,371,315  
   

 

 

 
          258,356,253  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Energy–6.1%

 

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels–6.1%

 

LUKOIL PJSC (Sponsored ADR) (London)

    659,420       54,469,567  

Petroleo Brasileiro SA (Preference Shares)

    4,616,200       30,608,385  

Repsol SA

    4,708,824       73,438,753  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC–Class B

    1,881,100       55,596,714  

Tatneft PJSC (Sponsored ADR) (London)(c)

    608,390       38,596,373  
   

 

 

 
      252,709,792  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Materials–6.0%

 

Chemicals–2.2%

 

Covestro AG(b)

    679,400       33,618,113  

Tosoh Corp.

    4,463,200       59,458,022  
   

 

 

 
      93,076,135  
   

 

 

 
Construction Materials–1.0%

 

Huaxin Cement Co., Ltd.

    9,502,352       25,130,003  

Taiwan Cement Corp.

    12,449,000       15,906,137  
   

 

 

 
      41,036,140  
   

 

 

 
Metals & Mining–2.8%

 

Evolution Mining Ltd.

    10,306,090       31,443,713  

Glencore PLC(a)

    9,622,560       28,998,038  

Newcrest Mining Ltd.

    815,050       18,807,813  

POSCO

    82,290       15,598,716  

Rio Tinto Ltd.

    341,980       21,419,897  
   

 

 

 
      116,268,177  
   

 

 

 
      250,380,452  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Communication Services–4.4%

 

Diversified Telecommunication Services–2.9%

 

China Unicom Hong Kong Ltd.

    44,232,000       46,827,312  

Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp.

    1,540,300       73,693,612  
   

 

 

 
      120,520,924  
   

 

 

 

 

   
26   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
     
Company   Shares     U.S. $ Value  
Interactive Media & Services–1.5%

 

 

Kakaku.com, Inc.

    898,700     $ 22,200,998  

Tencent Holdings Ltd.

    955,100       39,949,817  
   

 

 

 
      62,150,815  
   

 

 

 
      182,671,739  
   

 

 

 
   
 
Real Estate–2.3%

 

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)–2.3%

 

H&R Real Estate Investment Trust

    2,956,486       51,616,048  

Merlin Properties Socimi SA

    1,576,230       22,006,263  

Nippon Building Fund, Inc.

    2,861       21,981,486  
   

 

 

 
      95,603,797  
   

 

 

 
Total Common Stocks
(cost $3,932,633,595)
      4,112,755,065  
   

 

 

 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS–0.5%

 

       
Investment Companies–0.5%

 

AB Fixed Income Shares, Inc.–
Government Money Market Portfolio–Class AB, 1.89%(d)(e)(f)
(cost $19,509,616)

    19,509,616     19,509,616  
   

 

 

 
Total Investments—99.4%
(cost $3,952,143,211)

 

    4,132,264,681  

Other assets less liabilities—0.6%

 

    23,761,405  
   

 

 

 
   
Net Assets—100.0%

 

  $ 4,156,026,086  
   

 

 

 
       
FORWARD CURRENCY EXCHANGE CONTRACTS (see Note 3)

 

                          
Counterparty    Contracts to
Deliver
(000)
     In Exchange
For
(000)
     Settlement
Date
     Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)
 

Bank of America, NA

   AUD      204,178        USD        140,173        10/16/19      $ 2,293,425  

Bank of America, NA

   ILS      304,853        USD        86,444        10/16/19        (1,313,287

Bank of America, NA

   JPY      2,099,714        USD        19,468        10/16/19        31,243  

Bank of America, NA

   USD      23,265        AUD        33,893        10/16/19        (377,781

Bank of America, NA

   USD      7,505        EUR        6,830        10/16/19        (52,871

Bank of America, NA

   USD      10,406        CNY        74,348        10/17/19        61,221  

Bank of America, NA

   USD      9,603        CNY        67,948        10/17/19        (37,461

Bank of America, NA

   KRW      33,375,673        USD        27,604        10/30/19        (252,366

Barclays Bank PLC

   CHF      19,838        USD        20,067        10/16/19        166,184  

Barclays Bank PLC

   EUR      8,301        USD        9,191        10/16/19        134,059  

Barclays Bank PLC

   JPY      902,272        USD        8,355        10/16/19        2,440  

Barclays Bank PLC

   SGD      63,720        USD        46,202        10/16/19        93,207  

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      4,987        AUD        7,248        10/16/19        (92,186

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      22,442        EUR        20,266        10/16/19        (329,920

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      6,591        GBP        5,381        10/16/19        28,763  

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      25,453        MXN        501,425        10/16/19        (103,265

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      33,050        THB        1,012,363        10/16/19        57,035  

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      7,981        CLP        5,673,784        11/14/19        (193,428

Barclays Bank PLC

   USD      22,057        IDR        317,241,975        11/21/19        188,022  

Citibank, NA

   BRL      352,288        USD        84,608        10/02/19        (179,596

Citibank, NA

   USD      84,602        BRL        352,288        10/02/19        185,525  

Citibank, NA

   AUD      9,663        USD        6,592        10/16/19        66,653  

Citibank, NA

   CHF      80,144        USD        80,985        10/16/19        586,800  

Citibank, NA

   CNY      65,367        USD        9,225        10/16/19        21,635  

Citibank, NA

   JPY      5,534,224        USD        51,258        10/16/19        28,310  

Citibank, NA

   NZD      23,769        USD        15,295        10/16/19        405,843  

Citibank, NA

   PLN      46,926        USD        11,948        10/16/19        243,983  

Citibank, NA

   USD      80,716        GBP        65,330        10/16/19        (343,514

Citibank, NA

   USD      5,743        JPY        609,703        10/16/19        (99,411

 

   
2019 Annual Report     27  


Table of Contents

Schedule of Investments (continued)

 

Counterparty    Contracts to
Deliver
(000)
     In Exchange
For
(000)
     Settlement
Date
     Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)
 

Citibank, NA

   USD      37,095        NOK        332,141        10/16/19      $ (576,690

Citibank, NA

   USD      11,961        PLN        46,926        10/16/19        (257,389

Citibank, NA

   USD      66,365        SEK        645,313        10/16/19        (751,387

Citibank, NA

   USD      17,547        ZAR        257,805        10/16/19        (555,254

Citibank, NA

   CNY      268,923        USD        38,286        10/17/19        426,487  

Citibank, NA

   USD      62,286        INR        4,322,939        10/24/19        (1,280,903

Citibank, NA

   RUB      1,950,618        USD        30,236        11/14/19        319,150  

Citibank, NA

   TWD      269,896        USD        8,759        11/27/19        27,445  

Credit Suisse International

   BRL      310,665        USD        74,600        10/02/19        (169,670

Credit Suisse International

   USD      74,348        BRL        310,665        10/02/19        421,403  

Credit Suisse International

   TRY      104,432        USD        18,174        10/16/19        (222,336

Credit Suisse International

   BRL      310,665        USD        74,205        11/04/19        (392,890

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

   CHF      524        USD        530        10/16/19        4,400  

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

   TRY      53,200        USD        9,108        10/16/19        (263,489

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

   USD      38,171        ZAR        564,106        10/16/19        (992,012

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

   CNY      96,747        USD        14,066        10/17/19        445,970  

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

   TWD      179,490        USD        5,815        11/27/19        8,627  

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

   USD      37,341        TWD        1,161,193        11/27/19        224,468  

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

   USD      23,347        MYR        98,115        2/13/20        2,479  

Societe Generale

   EUR      181,981        USD        201,622        10/16/19        3,061,653  

Societe Generale

   HKD      112,517        USD        14,374        10/16/19        14,810  

Societe Generale

   NOK      687,673        USD        76,661        10/16/19        1,053,442  

Societe Generale

   THB      687,748        USD        22,514        10/16/19        22,184  

Societe Generale

   USD      11,294        AUD        16,609        10/16/19        (77,806

Societe Generale

   USD      192,080        JPY        20,575,514        10/16/19        (1,613,008

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   BRL      28,481        USD        6,834        10/02/19        (20,642

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   JPY      3,067,369        USD        28,525        10/16/19        130,924  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   USD      16,277        CAD        21,573        10/16/19        10,556  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   USD      159,672        CAD        210,302        10/16/19        (896,176

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

   USD      39,653        GBP        31,728        10/16/19        (619,411

UBS AG

   EUR      8,227        USD        9,103        10/16/19        126,729  

UBS AG

   JPY      709,580        USD        6,598        10/16/19        29,327  

UBS AG

   USD      9,128        AUD        13,341        10/16/19        (118,917

UBS AG

   USD      2,882        EUR        2,603        10/16/19        (42,073

UBS AG

   USD      14,359        HKD        112,517        10/16/19        279  

UBS AG

   USD      26,218        CNY        184,965        10/17/19        (177,935

UBS AG

   USD      7,122        INR        514,606        10/24/19        139,977  
                 

 

 

 
   $ (1,338,416
                 

 

 

 

 

   
28   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

 

(a)   Non-income producing security.
(b)   Security is exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. These securities are considered restricted, but liquid and may be resold in transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. At September 30, 2019, the aggregate market value of these securities amounted to $84,914,820 or 2.0% of net assets.
(c)   Illiquid security.
(d)   Affiliated investments.
(e)   The rate shown represents the 7-day yield as of period end.
(f)   To obtain a copy of the fund’s shareholder report, please go to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov, or call AB at (800) 227-4618.

Currency Abbreviations:

AUD—Australian Dollar

BRL—Brazilian Real

CAD—Canadian Dollar

CHF—Swiss Franc

CLP—Chilean Peso

CNY—Chinese Yuan Renminbi

EUR—Euro

GBP—Great British Pound

HKD—Hong Kong Dollar

IDR—Indonesian Rupiah

ILS—Israeli Shekel

INR—Indian Rupee

JPY—Japanese Yen

KRW—South Korean Won

MXN—Mexican Peso

MYR—Malaysian Ringgit

NOK—Norwegian Krone

NZD—New Zealand Dollar

PLN—Polish Zloty

RUB—Russian Ruble

SEK—Swedish Krona

SGD—Singapore Dollar

THB—Thailand Baht

TRY—Turkish Lira

TWD—New Taiwan Dollar

USD—United States Dollar

ZAR—South African Rand

Glossary:

ADR—American Depositary Receipt

PJSC—Public Joint Stock Company

See notes to financial statements.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     29  


Table of Contents

Statement of Assets and Liabilities—September 30, 2019

 

      SMALL CAP  CORE
PORTFOLIO
     INTERNATIONAL
SMALL CAP
PORTFOLIO
     INTERNATIONAL
STRATEGIC
EQUITIES
PORTFOLIO
 
ASSETS

 

Investments in securities at value

        

Unaffiliated issuers

   $ 932,751,959      $ 1,230,013,703      $ 4,112,755,065  

Affiliated issuers

     0        29,939,901        19,509,616  

Foreign currencies, at value (a)

     0        6,084,022        10,727,367  

Cash collateral due from broker

     850,850        575,000        1,180,000  

Receivables:

 

Unaffiliated interest and dividends

     908,632        3,034,481        12,203,505  

Affiliated dividends

     4,122        47,186        81,051  

Foreign withholding tax reclaims

     0        1,667,796        4,977,601  

Investment securities sold and foreign currency transactions

     3,976,282        2,088,892        15,555  

Capital shares sold

     653,295        1,420,238        4,204,767  

Variation margin on futures

     10,733        0        0  

Unrealized appreciation of forward currency exchange contracts

     0        2,344,043        11,064,658  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total assets

     939,155,873        1,277,215,262        4,176,719,185  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
LIABILITIES

 

Due to custodian

     2,023,529        0        0  

Cash collateral due to broker

     0        424,000        927,000  

Payables:

 

Investment securities purchased and foreign currency transactions

     649,735        16,162,253        4,020,486  

Management fee

     579,808        972,598        2,266,028  

Capital shares redeemed

     178,076        130,106        830,393  

Transfer Agent fee

     23,313        20,325        34,061  

Shareholder servicing fee

     1,681        12,511        33,808  

Accrued expenses

     113,999        233,382        178,249  

Unrealized depreciation of forward currency exchange contracts

     0        1,936,478        12,403,074  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     3,570,141        19,891,653        20,693,099  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

NET ASSETS

   $ 935,585,732      $ 1,257,323,609      $ 4,156,026,086  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Cost of investments

 

Unaffiliated issuers

   $ 875,870,973      $ 1,190,304,589      $ 3,932,633,595  

Affiliated issuers

     0        29,939,901        19,509,616  
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

 

Capital stock, at par

   $ 8,647      $ 12,059      $ 35,731  

Additional paid-in capital

     886,570,824        1,279,469,108        4,093,990,845  

Distributable earnings (accumulated loss) (b)

     49,006,261        (22,157,558      61,999,510  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
   $ 935,585,732      $ 1,257,323,609      $ 4,156,026,086  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(a) Cost: $0, $6,108,614 and $10,774,789, respectively. (Note 1)

(b) Net of accrued foreign capital gains taxes of $0, $93,871 and $0, respectively.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
30   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
      SMALL CAP  CORE
PORTFOLIO
     INTERNATIONAL
SMALL CAP
PORTFOLIO
     INTERNATIONAL
STRATEGIC
EQUITIES
PORTFOLIO
 
CALCULATION OF MAXIMUM OFFERING PRICE

 

SCB Class Shares

 

Net Assets

   $ 8,692,384      $ 64,993,201      $ 175,497,373  

Shares of capital stock outstanding

     806,103        6,248,047        15,137,121  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

   $ 10.78      $ 10.40      $ 11.59  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Advisor Class Shares

 

Net Assets

   $ 734,733,335      $ 791,764,489      $ 2,621,316,094  

Shares of capital stock outstanding

     67,899,834        75,919,032        225,419,495  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

   $ 10.82      $ 10.43      $ 11.63  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Class Z Shares

 

Net Assets

   $ 192,160,013      $ 400,565,919      $ 1,359,212,619  

Shares of capital stock outstanding

     17,765,868        38,418,988        116,751,870  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net asset value and offering price per share

   $ 10.82      $ 10.43      $ 11.64  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   
2019 Annual Report     31  


Table of Contents

Statement of Operations—for the year ended September 30, 2019

 

      SMALL CAP  CORE
PORTFOLIO
     INTERNATIONAL
SMALL CAP
PORTFOLIO
     INTERNATIONAL
STRATEGIC
EQUITIES
PORTFOLIO
 
INVESTMENT INCOME         

Income:

        

Dividends

        

Unaffiliated issuers (a)

   $ 12,221,786      $ 34,476,802      $ 122,178,258  

Affiliated issuers

     59,407        654,695        1,370,849  

Interest

     17,054        0        0  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total income

     12,298,247        35,131,497        123,549,107  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Expenses:

        

Management fee (see Note 2A)

     7,394,225        12,274,444        28,515,966  

Shareholder servicing fee (see Note 2B)

     22,796        161,892        422,140  

Custodian fee

     164,139        326,591        609,134  

Transfer Agent fee—Non-Retail Class

     4,172        18,445        14,680  

Transfer Agent fee—Advisor Class

     332,317        218,354        217,417  

Transfer Agent fee—Class Z

     38,050        79,354        266,324  

Registration fees

     75,149        86,006        116,115  

Recoupment of previously reimbursed expenses (see Note 2A)

     0        239,327        0  

Directors’ fees and expenses

     30,419        40,339        131,377  

Auditing and tax fees

     50,030        75,396        55,542  

Legal fees

     23,807        28,253        90,894  

Printing fees

     26,594        54,770        52,951  

Miscellaneous

     53,053        78,231        196,511  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total expenses

     8,214,751        13,681,402        30,689,051  

Less: expenses waived and reimbursed by the Adviser (see Note 2D)

     (2,570      (29,149      (60,722
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net expenses

     8,212,181        13,652,253        30,628,329  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net investment income

     4,086,066        21,479,244        92,920,778  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) ON INVESTMENT AND FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS         

Net realized loss on:

        

Investment transactions (b)

     (5,479,598      (72,779,494      (209,071,160

Forward currency exchange contracts

     0        527,873        20,752,742  

Futures

     (1,707,059      0        0  

Foreign currency transactions

     0        (405,116      (9,691,662
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net realized loss on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

     (7,186,657      (72,656,737      (198,010,080
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of:

        

Investments (c)

     (89,487,450      (53,313,627      (48,956,434

Forward currency exchange contracts

     0        2,781,018        (10,808,262

Futures

     (567,714      0        0  

Foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities

     0        (88,516      399  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of investments and foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities

     (90,055,164      (50,621,125      (59,764,297
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net realized and unrealized loss on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

     (97,241,821      (123,277,862      (257,774,377
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations

   $ (93,155,755    $ (101,798,618    $ (164,853,599
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

(a) Net of foreign withholding taxes of $17,472, $4,326,118 and $12,924,713, respectively.

(b) Net of foreign capital gains taxes of $0, $15,618 and $0, respectively.

(c) Net of increase in accrued foreign capital gains taxes of $0, $93,871 and $0, respectively.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
32   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

Statement of Changes in Net Assets

 

    SMALL CAP CORE
PORTFOLIO
          INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP
PORTFOLIO
 
         
    

YEAR

ENDED

9/30/19

   

YEAR

ENDED

9/30/18

          

YEAR

ENDED

9/30/19

   

YEAR

ENDED

9/30/18

 
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM

 

Operations:

 

Net investment income

  $ 4,086,066     $ 2,115,231       $ 21,479,244     $ 17,226,889  

Net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (7,186,657     74,221,519         (72,656,737     89,657,329  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of investments

    (90,055,164     33,221,730         (50,621,125     (96,493,668
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (93,155,755     109,558,480         (101,798,618     10,390,550  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Distributions to shareholders (a)

    (63,646,747     (53,215,294       (104,450,548     (41,753,868
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital-share transactions:

 

Net proceeds from sales of shares

    175,982,053       111,792,211         162,369,840       309,703,695  

Net proceeds from sales of shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends

    62,390,674       51,634,967         101,222,927       40,024,827  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total proceeds from shares sold

    238,372,727       163,427,178         263,592,767       349,728,522  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (121,023,838     (130,305,101       (110,046,720     (82,193,642
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets from capital-share transactions

    117,348,889       33,122,077         153,546,047       267,534,880  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (39,453,613     89,465,263         (52,703,119     236,171,562  
NET ASSETS:

 

Beginning of period

    975,039,345       885,574,082         1,310,026,728       1,073,855,166  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period

  $ 935,585,732     $ 975,039,345       $ 1,257,323,609     $ 1,310,026,728  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(a) See page 35 for share class information on dividend distributions for the Portfolios.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     33  


Table of Contents

Statement of Changes in Net Assets (continued)

 

    INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC
EQUITIES PORTFOLIO
 
   
    

YEAR

ENDED

9/30/19

   

YEAR

ENDED

9/30/18

 
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM

 

Operations:

 

Net investment income

  $ 92,920,778     $ 76,322,088  

Net realized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (198,010,080     33,380,699  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of investments

    (59,764,297     (100,989,442
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (164,853,599     8,713,345  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Distributions to shareholders (a)

    (115,318,621     (97,041,724
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Capital-share transactions:

 

Net proceeds from sales of shares

    533,970,537       1,193,401,258  

Net proceeds from sales of shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends

    107,127,789       93,754,598  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total proceeds from shares sold

    641,098,326       1,287,155,856  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (375,862,283     (218,083,402
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets from capital-share transactions

    265,236,043       1,069,072,454  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (14,936,177     980,744,075  
NET ASSETS:

 

Beginning of period

    4,170,962,263       3,190,218,188  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

End of period

  $ 4,156,026,086     $ 4,170,962,263  
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

(a) See page 35 for share class information on dividend distributions for the Portfolios.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
34   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
    SMALL CAP CORE
PORTFOLIO
 
   
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
 

Distributions to shareholders:

 

SCB Class

  $ (653,912   $ (586,489

Advisor Class

    (49,597,397     (41,690,187

Class Z

    (13,395,438     (10,938,618
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $ (63,646,747   $ (53,215,294
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

    INTERNATIONAL
SMALL CAP
PORTFOLIO
 
   
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
 

Distributions to shareholders:

 

SCB Class

  $ (5,411,545   $ (2,714,284

Advisor Class

    (64,631,751     (24,112,388

Class Z

    (34,407,252     (14,927,196
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $ (104,450,548   $ (41,753,868
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

    INTERNATIONAL
STRATEGIC EQUITIES
PORTFOLIO
 
   
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
 

Distributions to shareholders:

 

SCB Class

  $ (4,514,423   $ (4,530,477

Advisor Class

    (71,773,884     (55,027,970

Class Z

    (39,030,314     (37,483,277
 

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $ (115,318,621   $ (97,041,724
 

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   
2019 Annual Report     35  


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights

Selected per share data and ratios for a share of capital stock outstanding for each respective Portfolio for each of the periods presented:

 

    SMALL CAP CORE PORTFOLIO
SCB CLASS
 
       
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/17
   

FOR THE
PERIOD

12/29/15(a) TO

9/30/16

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.93     $ 12.21     $ 10.54     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income from investment operations:

       

Investment income (loss), net (b)(c)

    0.02       (0.00 (d)      0.01       0.01  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (1.38     1.44       1.67       0.53  (e) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total from investment operations

    (1.36     1.44       1.68       0.54  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Less dividends and distributions:

       

Dividends from net investment income

    0.00  (d)      (0.01     (0.01     (0.00 (d) 

Distributions from net realized gain on investment transactions

    (0.79     (0.71     0       0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.79     (0.72     (0.01     0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.78     $ 12.93     $ 12.21     $ 10.54  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (f)

    (10.15)%       12.44%       15.98%       5.45%  
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA        

Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)

    $8,692       $10,865       $10,276       $4,870  

Average net assets (000 omitted)

    $9,118       $10,771       $7,467       $2,314  

Ratio to average net assets of:

       

Expenses, net of waivers/reimbursements

    1.14%       1.14%       1.18%       1.30%  • 

Expenses, before waivers/reimbursements

    1.14%       1.14%       1.19%       1.40%  • 

Net investment income (loss) (c)

    0.19%       (0.02)%       0.05%       0.16%  • 

Portfolio turnover rate

    61%       102%       165%       88%  

 

See Footnote Summary on page 44.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
36   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

 

 

    SMALL CAP CORE PORTFOLIO
ADVISOR CLASS
 
       
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/17
   

FOR THE
PERIOD

12/29/15(a) TO

9/30/16

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.97     $ 12.25     $ 10.56     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income from investment operations

       

Investment income, net (b)(c)

    0.05       0.03       0.03       0.04  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (1.38     1.44       1.69       0.53  (e) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total from investment operations

    (1.33     1.47       1.72       0.57  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Less dividends and distributions:

       

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.03     (0.04     (0.03     (0.01

Distributions from net realized gain on investment transactions

    (0.79     (0.71     0       0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.82     (0.75     (0.03     (0.01
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.82     $ 12.97     $ 12.25     $ 10.56  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (f)

    (9.90)%       12.64%       16.29%       5.65%  
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA        

Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)

    $734,733       $752,305       $695,958       $603,862  

Average net assets (000 omitted)

    $724,908       $718,801       $654,649       $175,999  

Ratio to average net assets of:

       

Expenses, net of waivers/reimbursements

    0.89%       0.89%       0.92%       1.05%  * 

Expenses, before waivers/reimbursements

    0.89%       0.89%       0.93%       1.15%  * 

Net investment income (c)

    0.44%       0.23%       0.30%       0.49%  * 

Portfolio turnover rate

    61%       102%       165%       88%  

 

See Footnote Summary on page 44.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     37  


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights (continued)

Selected per share data and ratios for a share of capital stock outstanding for each respective Portfolio for each of the periods presented:

 

    SMALL CAP CORE PORTFOLIO
CLASS Z
 
       
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/17
   

FOR THE
PERIOD

12/29/15(a) TO

9/30/16

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.96     $ 12.24     $ 10.56     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income from investment operations

       

Investment income, net (b)(c)

    0.05       0.03       0.03       0.04  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (1.37     1.44       1.68       0.53  (e) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total from investment operations

    (1.32     1.47       1.71       0.57  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Less dividends and distributions:

       

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.03     (0.04     (0.03     (0.01

Distributions from net realized gain on investment transactions

    (0.79     (0.71     0       0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.82     (0.75     (0.03     (0.01
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.82     $ 12.96     $ 12.24     $ 10.56  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (f)

    (9.80)%       12.69%       16.22%       5.65%  
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA        

Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)

    $192,161       $211,869       $179,340       $126,780  

Average net assets (000 omitted)

    $190,252       $193,253       $144,513       $36,539  

Ratio to average net assets of:

       

Expenses, net of waivers/reimbursements

    0.87%       0.86%       0.93%       1.05%  * 

Expenses, before waivers/reimbursements

    0.87%       0.86%       0.94%       1.35%  * 

Net investment income (c)

    0.46%       0.25%       0.30%       0.49%  * 

Portfolio turnover rate

    61%       102%       165%       88%  

 

See Footnote Summary on page 44.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
38   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

 

 

    INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP PORTFOLIO
SCB CLASS
 
       
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/17
   

FOR THE
PERIOD

12/21/15(a) TO

9/30/16

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.40     $ 12.70     $ 10.92     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income from investment operations:

       

Investment income, net (b)(c)

    0.16       0.14       0.08       0.11  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (1.21     0.02       1.96       0.81  

Contributions from affiliates

    0       0       0.00  (d)      0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total from investment operations

    (1.05     0.16       2.04       0.92  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Less dividends and distributions:

       

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.19     (0.14     (0.14     0  

Distributions from net realized gain on investment transactions

    (0.76     (0.32     (0.12     0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.95     (0.46     (0.26     0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.40     $ 12.40     $ 12.70     $ 10.92  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (f)

    (8.03)%       1.29%       19.28%       9.20%  
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA        

Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)

    $64,993       $71,729       $73,531       $37,226  

Average net assets (000 omitted)

    $64,757       $76,322       $55,325       $14,117  

Ratio to average net assets of:

       

Expenses, net of waivers/reimbursements

    1.35%       1.35%       1.35%       1.35%  • 

Expenses, before waivers/reimbursements

    1.35%       1.35%       1.36%       1.53%  • 

Net investment income (c)

    1.50%       1.07%       0.75%       1.38%  • 

Portfolio turnover rate

    46%       81%       65%       51%  

See Footnote Summary on page 44.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     39  


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights (continued)

Selected per share data and ratios for a share of capital stock outstanding for each respective Portfolio for each of the periods presented:

 

   

INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP PORTFOLIO

ADVISOR CLASS

 
       
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/17
   

FOR THE
PERIOD

12/21/15(a) TO

9/30/16

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.43     $ 12.72     $ 10.93     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income from investment operations

 

Investment income, net (b)(c)

    0.19       0.18       0.10       0.15  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (1.21     0.01       1.96       0.78  

Contributions from affiliates

    0       0       0.00  (d)      0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total from investment operations

    (1.02     0.19       2.06       0.93  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Less dividends and distributions:

 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.22     (0.16     (0.15     0  

Distributions from net realized gain on investment transactions

    (0.76     (0.32     (0.12     0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.98     (0.48     (0.27     0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.43     $ 12.43     $ 12.72     $ 10.93  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (f)

    (7.70)%       1.53%       19.51%       9.30%  
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

 

Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)

    $791,765       $810,447       $608,324       $367,468  

Average net assets (000 omitted)

    $765,916       $745,535       $460,362       $230,324  

Ratio to average net assets of:

 

Expenses, net of waivers/reimbursements

    1.10%       1.10%       1.10%       1.10%  * 

Expenses, before waivers/reimbursements

    1.10%       1.10%       1.11%       1.22%  * 

Net investment income (c)

    1.77%       1.43%       0.93%       1.87%  * 

Portfolio turnover rate

    46%       81%       65%       51%  

See Footnote Summary on page 44.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
40   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

 

 

   

INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP PORTFOLIO

CLASS Z

 
       
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/17
   

FOR THE
PERIOD

12/21/15(a) TO

9/30/16

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.43     $ 12.72     $ 10.93     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income from investment operations

 

Investment income, net (b)(c)

    0.18       0.18       0.10       0.15  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (1.20     0.02       1.96       0.78  

Contributions from affiliates

    0       0       0.00  (d)      0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total from investment operations

    (1.02     0.20       2.06       0.93  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Less dividends and distributions:

 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.22     (0.17     (0.15     0  

Distributions from net realized gain on investment transactions

    (0.76     (0.32     (0.12     0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.98     (0.49     (0.27     0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.43     $ 12.43     $ 12.72     $ 10.93  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (f)

    (7.70)%       1.54%       19.52%       9.30%  
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

 

Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)

    $400,566       $427,851       $392,000       $254,068  

Average net assets (000 omitted)

    $396,772       $424,411       $291,438       $187,312  

Ratio to average net assets of:

 

Expenses, net of waivers/reimbursements

    1.10%       1.10%       1.10%       1.10%  * 

Expenses, before waivers/reimbursements

    1.10%       1.10%       1.11%       1.26%  * 

Net investment income (c)

    1.75%       1.36%       0.87%       1.92%  * 

Portfolio turnover rate

    46%       81%       65%       51%  

See Footnote Summary on page 44.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     41  


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights (continued)

Selected per share data and ratios for a share of capital stock outstanding for each respective Portfolio for each of the periods presented:

 

    INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC EQUITIES PORTFOLIO
SCB CLASS
 
       
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/17
   

FOR THE
PERIOD

12/21/15(a) TO

9/30/16

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.45     $ 12.69     $ 10.57     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income from investment operations:

 

Investment income, net (b)(c)

    0.24       0.22       0.18       0.21  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (0.79     (0.11     2.11       0.36  (e) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total from investment operations

    (0.55     0.11       2.29       0.57  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Less dividends and distributions:

 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.18     (0.09     (0.14     (0.00 (d) 

Distributions from net realized gain on investment transactions

    (0.13     (0.26     (0.03     0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.31     (0.35     (0.17     (0.00
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 11.59     $ 12.45     $ 12.69     $ 10.57  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (f)

    (4.22)%       0.86%       22.01%       5.75%  
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

 

Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)

    $175,497       $181,606       $152,725       $68,977  

Average net assets (000 omitted)

    $168,856       $179,015       $106,248       $27,169  

Ratio to average net assets of:

 

Expenses, net of waivers/reimbursements

    1.00%       1.03%       1.17%       1.20%  • 

Expenses, before waivers/reimbursements

    1.00%       1.04%       1.23%       1.34%  • 

Net investment income (c)

    2.07%       1.69%       1.62%       2.70%  • 

Portfolio turnover rate

    63%       69%       69%       79%  

 

See Footnote Summary on page 44.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
42   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

 

 

    INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC EQUITIES PORTFOLIO
ADVISOR CLASS
 
       
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/17
   

FOR THE
PERIOD

12/21/15(a) TO

9/30/16

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.50     $ 12.72     $ 10.57     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income from investment operations

 

Investment income, net (b)(c)

    0.27       0.26       0.21       0.23  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (0.80     (0.11     2.11       0.35  (e) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total from investment operations

    (0.53     0.15       2.32       0.58  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Less dividends and distributions:

 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.21     (0.11     (0.14     (0.01

Distributions from net realized gain on investment transactions

    (0.13     (0.26     (0.03     0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.34     (0.37     (0.17     (0.01
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 11.63     $ 12.50     $ 12.72     $ 10.57  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (f)

    (4.01)%       1.18%       22.38%       5.75%  
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

 

Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)

    $2,621,316       $2,568,426       $1,760,819       $737,765  

Average net assets (000 omitted)

    $2,501,981       $2,275,780       $1,023,860       $459,166  

Ratio to average net assets of:

 

Expenses, net of waivers/reimbursements

    0.75%       0.77%       0.93%       0.95%  * 

Expenses, before waivers/reimbursements

    0.75%       0.79%       0.98%       1.06%  * 

Net investment income (c)

    2.35%       2.05%       1.85%       2.93%  * 

Portfolio turnover rate

    63%       69%       69%       79%  

 

See Footnote Summary on page 44.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     43  


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights (continued)

Selected per share data and ratios for a share of capital stock outstanding for each respective Portfolio for each of the periods presented:

 

   

INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC EQUITIES PORTFOLIO

CLASS Z

 
       
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/17
   

FOR THE
PERIOD

12/21/15(a) TO

9/30/16

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.51     $ 12.73     $ 10.58     $ 10.00  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income from investment operations

 

Investment income, net (b)(c)

    0.26       0.25       0.20       0.24  

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment transactions and foreign currency transactions

    (0.79     (0.10     2.12       0.35  (e) 
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total from investment operations

    (0.53     0.15       2.32       0.59  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Less dividends and distributions:

 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.21     (0.11     (0.14     (0.01

Distributions from net realized gain on investment transactions

    (0.13     (0.26     (0.03     0  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total dividends and distributions

    (0.34     (0.37     (0.17     (0.01
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 11.64     $ 12.51     $ 12.73     $ 10.58  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total return (f)

    (4.02)%       1.18%       22.35%       5.85%  
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

 

Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)

    $1,359,213       $1,420,930       $1,276,674       $421,721  

Average net assets (000 omitted)

    $1,331,620       $1,390,312       $605,465       $295,180  

Ratio to average net assets of:

 

Expenses, net of waivers/reimbursements

    0.76%       0.79%       0.94%       0.95%  * 

Expenses, before waivers/reimbursements

    0.76%       0.80%       1.00%       1.10%  * 

Net investment income (c)

    2.31%       1.91%       1.74%       3.04%  * 

Portfolio turnover rate

    63%       69%       69%       79%  

 

(a)   Commencement of operations.
(b)   Based on average shares outstanding.
(c)   Net of fees and expenses waived by the Adviser.
(d)   Amount is less than $.005.
(e)   Due to timing of sales and repurchase of capital shares, the net realized and unrealized gain (loss) per share is not in accordance with the Portfolios’ change in net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investment transactions for the period.
(f)   Total investment return is calculated assuming an initial investment made at the net asset value at the beginning of the period, reinvestment of all dividends and distributions at net asset value during the period, and redemption on the last day of the period. Total return does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. Total investment return calculated for a period of less than one year is not annualized.
*   Annualized, except for certain non-recurring fees.

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

   
44   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements

 

NOTE 1.

Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

Bernstein Fund, Inc. (the “Fund”) is a managed open-end registered investment company, incorporated in Maryland on September 11, 2015. The Fund operates as a series company currently comprised of three portfolios: Small Cap Core Portfolio, International Small Cap Portfolio and International Strategic Equities Portfolio (hereafter collectively referred to as the “Portfolios” and each individually a “Portfolio”) with the following share classes offered: SCB Class, Advisor Class and Class Z. Class Z shares are currently offered exclusively to registered investment companies (or their series) managed by AllianceBernstein L.P. (the “Adviser”).

Each Portfolio has its own investment objectives. Each class of shares has identical voting, dividend, liquidation and other rights, except that the classes bear different distribution and transfer agency expenses. Each class has exclusive voting rights with respect to its distribution plan, as applicable. The financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) which require management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Each Portfolio is an investment company under U.S. GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies. The following is a summary of significant accounting policies followed by the Portfolios.

 

A.   Portfolio Valuation

Portfolio securities are valued at their current market value determined on the basis of market quotations or, if market quotations are not readily available or are deemed unreliable, at “fair value” as determined in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Fund’s Board of Directors (the “Board”).

In general, the market values of securities which are readily available and deemed reliable are determined as follows: securities listed on a national securities exchange (other than securities listed on the NASDAQ Stock Market, Inc. (“NASDAQ”)) or on a foreign securities exchange are valued at the last sale price at the close of the exchange or foreign securities exchange. If there has been no sale on such day, the securities are valued at the last traded price from the previous day. Securities listed on more than one exchange are valued by reference to the principal exchange on which the securities are traded; securities listed only on NASDAQ are valued in accordance with the NASDAQ Official Closing Price; listed or over the counter (“OTC”) market put or call options are valued at the mid level between the current bid and ask prices. If either a current bid or current ask price is unavailable, the Adviser will have discretion to determine the best valuation (e.g., last trade price in the case of listed options); open futures are valued using the closing settlement price or, in the absence of such a price, the most recent quoted bid price. If there are no quotations available for the day of valuation, the last available closing settlement price is used; U.S. Government securities and any other debt instruments having 60 days or less remaining until maturity are generally valued at market by an independent pricing vendor, if a market price is available. If a market price is not available, the securities are valued at amortized cost. This methodology is commonly used for short term securities that have an original maturity of 60 days or less, as well as short term securities that had an original term to maturity that exceeded 60 days. In instances when amortized cost is utilized, the Valuation Committee (the “Committee”) must reasonably conclude that the utilization of amortized cost is approximately the same as the fair value of the security. Such factors the Committee will consider include, but are not limited to, an impairment of the creditworthiness of the issuer or material changes in interest rates. Fixed-income securities, including mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities, may be valued on the basis of prices provided by a pricing service or at a price obtained from one or more of the major broker-dealers. In cases where broker-dealer quotes are obtained, the Adviser may establish procedures whereby changes in market yields or spreads are used to adjust, on a daily basis, a recently obtained quoted price on a security. Swaps and other derivatives are valued daily, primarily using independent pricing services, independent pricing models using market inputs, as well as third party broker-dealers or counterparties. Open end mutual funds are valued at the closing net asset value per share, while exchange traded funds are valued at the closing market price per share.

Securities for which market quotations are not readily available (including restricted securities) or are deemed unreliable are valued at fair value as deemed appropriate by the Adviser. Factors considered in making this determination may include, but are not limited to, information obtained by contacting the issuer, analysts, analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents. In addition, the Portfolios may use fair value pricing for securities primarily traded in non-U.S. markets because most foreign markets close well before the Portfolios value

 

   
2019 Annual Report     45  


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

their securities at 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim and may materially affect the value of those securities. To account for this, the Portfolios generally value many of their foreign equity securities using fair value prices based on third party vendor modeling tools to the extent available.

 

B.   Fair Value Measurements

In accordance with U.S. GAAP regarding fair value measurements, fair value is defined as the price that the Portfolios would receive to sell an asset or pay to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. U.S. GAAP establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and a three-level hierarchy for fair value measurements based upon the transparency of inputs to the valuation of an asset or liability (including those valued based on their market values as described in Note A above). Inputs may be observable or unobservable and refer broadly to the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Observable inputs reflect the assumptions market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Portfolios. Unobservable inputs reflect the Portfolios’ own assumptions about the assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on the best information available in the circumstances. Each investment is assigned a level based upon the observability of the inputs which are significant to the overall valuation. The three-tier hierarchy of inputs is summarized below.

 

   

Level 1—quoted prices in active markets for identical investments

   

Level 2—other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar investments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.)

   

Level 3—significant unobservable inputs (including the Portfolios’ own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments)

The fair value of debt instruments, such as bonds, and over-the-counter derivatives is generally based on market price quotations, recently executed market transactions (where observable) or industry recognized modeling techniques and are generally classified as Level 2. Pricing vendor inputs to Level 2 valuations may include quoted prices for similar investments in active markets, interest rate curves, coupon rates, currency rates, yield curves, option adjusted spreads, default rates, credit spreads and other unique security features in order to estimate the relevant cash flows which are then discounted to calculate fair values. If these inputs are unobservable and significant to the fair value, these investments will be classified as Level 3.

Where readily available market prices or relevant bid prices are not available for certain equity investments, such investments may be valued based on similar publicly traded investments, movements in relevant indices since last available prices or based upon underlying company fundamentals and comparable company data (such as multiples to earnings or other multiples to equity). Where an investment is valued using an observable input, such as another publicly traded security, the investment will be classified as Level 2. If management determines that an adjustment is appropriate based on restrictions on resale, illiquidity or uncertainty, and such adjustment is a significant component of the valuation, the investment will be classified as Level 3. An investment will also be classified as Level 3 where management uses company fundamentals and other significant inputs to determine the valuation.

The following tables summarize the valuation of the Portfolios’ investments by the above fair value hierarchy levels as of September 30, 2019:

 

SMALL CAP CORE PORTFOLIO
INVESTMENTS IN SECURITIES:
  LEVEL 1      LEVEL 2      LEVEL 3      TOTAL  

Assets:

          

Common Stocks (a)

  $ 932,751,959      $ 0      $ 0      $ 932,751,959  

Total Investments in Securities

    932,751,959        0        0        932,751,959  

Other Financial Instruments (b):

          

Assets

    0        0        0        0  

Liabilities:

          

Futures

    (670,416      0        0        (670,416 (c) 

Total

  $ 932,081,543      $  0      $ 0      $ 932,081,543  

 

   
46   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP PORTFOLIO
INVESTMENTS IN SECURITIES:
  LEVEL 1      LEVEL 2     LEVEL 3      TOTAL  

Assets:

         

Common Stocks:

         

Industrials

  $ 35,150,903      $ 195,858,005     $ 0      $ 231,008,908  

Consumer Discretionary

    33,262,029        125,068,560       0        158,330,589  

Information Technology

    12,118,063        134,975,787       0        147,093,850  

Financials

    17,105,534        118,904,945       0        136,010,479  

Consumer Staples

    8,158,449        111,903,789       0        120,062,238  

Real Estate

    69,141,515        39,229,175       0        108,370,690  

Communication Services

    18,880,544        65,999,026       0        84,879,570  

Materials

    18,848,465        63,404,222       0        82,252,687  

Health Care

    7,534,320        66,379,322       0        73,913,642  

Energy

    4,551,103        40,470,731       0        45,021,834  

Utilities

    13,048,364        30,020,852       0        43,069,216  

Short-Term Investments

    29,939,901        0       0        29,939,901  

Total Investments in Securities

    267,739,190        992,214,414  (d)      0        1,259,953,604  

Other Financial Instruments (b):

         

Assets:

         

Forward Currency Exchange Contracts

    0        2,344,043       0        2,344,043  

Liabilities:

         

Forward Currency Exchange Contracts

    0        (1,936,478     0        (1,936,478

Total

  $ 267,739,190      $ 992,621,979     $ 0      $ 1,260,361,169  
INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC EQUITIES PORTFOLIO
INVESTMENTS IN SECURITIES:
  LEVEL 1      LEVEL 2     LEVEL 3      TOTAL  

Assets:

 

Common Stocks:

         

Financials

  $ 18,745,900      $ 693,710,489     $ 0      $ 712,456,389  

Consumer Discretionary

    258,440,947        268,448,063       0        526,889,010  

Consumer Staples

    0        515,780,965       0        515,780,965  

Information Technology

    117,447,033        396,058,307       0        513,505,340  

Industrials

    51,630,345        405,724,018       0        457,354,363  

Health Care

    0        347,046,965       0        347,046,965  

Utilities

    65,994,869        192,361,384       0        258,356,253  

Energy

    30,608,385        222,101,407       0        252,709,792  

Materials

    0        250,380,452       0        250,380,452  

Communication Services

    0        182,671,739       0        182,671,739  

Real Estate

    51,616,048        43,987,749       0        95,603,797  

Short-Term Investments

    19,509,616        0       0        19,509,616  

Total Investments in Securities

    613,993,143        3,518,271,538  (d)      0        4,132,264,681  

Other Financial Instruments (b):

         

Assets:

         

Forward Currency Exchange Contracts

    0        11,064,658       0        11,064,658  

Liabilities:

         

Forward Currency Exchange Contracts

    0        (12,403,074     0        (12,403,074

Total

  $ 613,993,143      $ 3,516,933,122     $ 0      $ 4,130,926,265  

 

  (a)

See schedule of investments for sector classifications.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     47  


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

 

  (b)

Other financial instruments are derivative instruments, such as futures, forwards and swaps, which are valued at the unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on the instrument. Other financial instruments may also include swaps with upfront premiums, options written and swaptions written which are valued at market value.

 

  (c)

Only variation margin receivable/(payable) at period end is reported within the statement of assets and liabilities. This amount reflects cumulative unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on futures and centrally cleared swaps as reported in the schedule of investments. Where applicable, centrally cleared swaps with upfront premiums are presented here at market value.

 

  (d)

A significant portion of the Portfolio’s foreign equity investments are categorized as Level 2 investments since they are valued using fair value prices based on third party vendor modeling tools to the extent available, see Note 1.A.

 

C.   Foreign Currency Translation

The accounting records of the Portfolios are maintained in U.S. dollars. Prices of securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in non-U.S. currencies are translated into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate at 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time. Amounts related to the purchases and sales of securities, investment income and expenses are translated at the rates of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions.

Net realized gain or loss on foreign currency transactions represents net foreign exchange gains or losses from the disposition of foreign currencies, currency gains or losses realized between the trade and settlement dates on security transactions and the difference between the amount of dividends, interest and foreign withholding taxes recorded on the Portfolios’ books and the U.S. dollar equivalent amount actually received or paid. Net unrealized currency gains and losses arising from valuing foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities, other than security investments, at the current exchange rate are reflected as part of unrealized appreciation/depreciation on foreign currencies.

The Portfolios do not isolate that portion of the results of operations arising as a result of changes in the foreign exchange rates from the changes in the market prices of securities held at period end. The Portfolios do isolate the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates from changes in market prices of securities sold during the year, as required by the Internal Revenue Code. The International Small Cap Portfolio and International Strategic Equities Portfolio may invest in foreign securities and foreign currency transactions that may involve risks not associated with domestic investments as a result of the level of governmental supervision and regulation of foreign securities markets and the possibility of political or economic instability, among others.

 

D.   Taxes

Each Portfolio is treated as a separate entity for federal income tax purposes. Each Portfolio intends to continue to comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 as they apply to regulated investment companies. By so complying, each Portfolio will not be subject to federal and state income taxes to the extent that all of its income is distributed. The Portfolios may be subject to taxes imposed by countries in which they invest. Such taxes are generally based on income and/or capital gains earned or repatriated. Taxes are accrued and applied to net investment income, net realized gains and net unrealized appreciation/depreciation as such income and/or gains are earned based on, management’s understanding of applicable local tax law.

In accordance with U.S. GAAP requirements regarding accounting for uncertainties in income taxes, management has analyzed the Portfolios’ tax positions taken or expected to be taken on federal and state income tax returns for all open tax years (the current and the prior three tax years) and has concluded that no provision for income tax is required in the Portfolios’ financial statements.

 

E.   Security Transactions and Related Investment Income

Security transactions are accounted for on the trade date (the date the buy or sell order is executed). Securities gains and losses are calculated on the identified cost basis. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis and dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date or as soon as the Portfolios are informed of the dividend. The Portfolios amortize premiums and accrete discounts as adjustments to interest income.

 

   
48   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


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F.   Securities Transactions on a When-Issued or Delayed-Delivery Basis

Each Portfolio may purchase securities on a when-issued basis or purchase or sell securities on a delayed-delivery basis. At the time a Portfolio commits to purchase a security on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio will record the transaction and use the security’s value in determining the Portfolio’s net asset value. At the time a Portfolio commits to sell a security on a delayed-delivery basis, the Portfolio will record the transaction and exclude the security’s value in determining the Portfolio’s net asset value.

 

G.   Class Allocations

All income earned and expenses incurred by the Portfolios are borne on a pro-rata basis by each outstanding class of shares, based on the proportionate interest in the Portfolio represented by the shares of such class, except for class specific expenses which are allocated to the respective class. Expenses of the Fund are charged proportionately to each Portfolio or based on other appropriate methods. Realized and unrealized gains and losses are allocated among the various share classes based on respective net assets.

 

H.   Distribution of Income and Gains

Dividends from net investment income, if any, will be paid to shareholders at least once a year.

Distributions of net realized gains, less any available loss carryforwards, if any, for all the Portfolios will be paid to shareholders at least once a year, and recorded on the ex-dividend date.

Elements of realized gains and net investment income may be recorded in different accounting periods for financial reporting (book) and federal income tax (tax) purposes (temporary differences). To the extent that such distributions required for tax purposes exceed income and gains recorded for book purposes as a result of such temporary differences, “excess distributions” are reflected in the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities. To the extent distributions exceed income and gains for tax purposes, such distributions would be shown as “return of capital” on the statement of changes in net assets. Certain other differences—permanent differences—arise because treatment of elements of income and gains is different between book and tax accounting. Permanent differences are reclassified in the year they arise.

Permanent differences have no effect on net assets. The effects of such permanent differences on each Portfolio, due to the utilization of earnings and profits distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares are reflected as adjustments to the components of net assets as of September 30, 2019, as shown below:

 

PORTFOLIO  

INCREASE (DECREASE)
TO ADDITIONAL

PAID-IN CAPITAL

     INCREASE (DECREASE)
TO  DISTRIBUTABLE EARNINGS/
ACCUMULATED LOSS
 

Small Cap Core

  $ 3,966,439      $ (3,966,439

International Small Cap

    4,067,102        (4,067,102

International Strategic Equities

    0        0  

 

NOTE 2.

Investment Management and Transactions with Affiliated Persons

 

A.   Management Fee

Under the Investment Management Agreement between the Fund and the Adviser, the Adviser manages the investment of each Portfolio’s assets, places purchase and sale orders, and bears various expenses, including the salaries and expenses of all personnel except those of outside directors. In addition, the Adviser agrees to permit its directors, officers and employees who may be elected directors or officers of the Fund to serve in the capacities to which they are elected. The Adviser renders these services subject to the general oversight of the Board.

The Portfolios pay the Adviser an investment management fee at an annualized rate as follows:

Small Cap Core Portfolio: 0.80% of the Portfolio’s average daily net assets.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     49  


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Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

International Small Cap Portfolio: 1.00% of the Portfolio’s average daily net assets.

 

    ANNUAL PERCENTAGE OF AVERAGE DAILY  NET ASSETS OF EACH PORTFOLIO  
    

FIRST

$2.5 BILLION

    

NEXT

$2.5 BILLION

     THEREAFTER  
International Strategic Equities     0.75      0.65      0.60

Prior to January 1, 2018, the below Portfolio paid the Adviser an investment management fee, based on an annual rate, for such services as follows:

 

    ANNUAL PERCENTAGE OF AVERAGE DAILY NET ASSETS OF EACH PORTFOLIO  
PORTFOLIO  

FIRST

$1 BILLION

    

NEXT

$3 BILLION

    

NEXT

$2 BILLION

    

NEXT

$2 BILLION

    

NEXT

$2 BILLION

     THEREAFTER  
International Strategic Equities     0.925      0.850      0.800      0.750      0.650      0.600

Prior to January 1, 2018, the Adviser waived the annual investment management fees of the International Strategic Equities Portfolio by an amount equal to 0.05% per annum of the average net assets of the Portfolio.

The Adviser has agreed to waive its fees and bear certain expenses to the extent necessary to limit the total portfolio operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses other than the advisory fees of any AB mutual funds in which the Portfolios may invest, interest expense, taxes, extraordinary expenses, and brokerage commissions and other transaction costs) as a percentage of daily average net assets on an annual basis (the “Expense Caps”) as follows:

 

PORTFOLIO   SCB CLASS      ADVISOR CLASS      CLASS Z  

Small Cap Core

    1.30      1.05      1.05

International Small Cap

    1.35      1.10      1.10

The Expense Caps described above for Small Cap Core and International Small Cap may not be terminated by the Adviser before January 28, 2020. During the year ended September 30, 2019, there were no such reimbursement/waivers. Effective January 27, 2018, the Expense Caps for International Strategic Equities of 1.20%, 0.95% and 0.95% of the daily average net assets for SCB Class, Advisor Class and Class Z shares, respectively, were terminated.

Any fees waived and expenses borne by the Adviser for the Portfolios through September 30, 2016 were subject to repayment by the Portfolios until September 30, 2019, such waivers that were subject to repayment amounted to:

 

PORTFOLIO   AMOUNT  

Small Cap Core

  $ 161,882  

International Small Cap

    420,136  

International Strategic Equities

    425,084  

Any fees waived and expenses borne by the Adviser from October 1, 2016 through January 4, 2017 are subject to repayment by the Portfolios until September 30, 2020; such waivers that are subject to repayment amounted to:

 

PORTFOLIO   AMOUNT  

Small Cap Core

  $ 0  

International Small Cap

    20,030  

International Strategic Equities

    1,709  

During the year ended September 30, 2017, the Small Cap Core Portfolio, International Small Cap Portfolio and International Strategic Equities Portfolio made repayments to the Adviser in the amounts of $161,882, $27,230 and $426,793, respectively. During the year ended September 30, 2018, the International Small Cap Portfolio made repayments to the Adviser in the amount of $141,360. During the year ended September 30, 2019, the International Small Cap Portfolio made repayments to the Adviser in the amount of $239,327. In any case, no repayment will be made that would cause the Portfolios’ total annual fund operating expenses to exceed the net fee percentage set forth per the Expense Caps.

 

   
50   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


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During the second quarter of 2018, AXA S.A. (“AXA”), a French holding company for the AXA Group, a worldwide leader in life, property and casualty and health insurance and asset management, completed the sale of a minority stake in its subsidiary, AXA Equitable Holdings, Inc. (“AXA Equitable”), through an initial public offering. AXA Equitable is the holding company for a diverse group of financial services companies, including an approximately 65.3% economic interest in the Adviser and a 100% interest in AllianceBernstein Corporation, the general partner of the Adviser. Since the initial sale, AXA has completed additional offerings, most recently during the fourth quarter of 2019. As a result, AXA owned 10.1% of the outstanding shares of common stock of AXA Equitable as of November 13, 2019, and no longer owns a controlling interest in AXA Equitable. AXA previously announced its intention to sell its entire interest in AXA Equitable over time, subject to market conditions and other factors (the “Plan”). Most of AXA’s remaining AXA Equitable shares are to be delivered on redemption of AXA bonds mandatorily exchangeable into AXA Equitable shares and maturing in May 2021. AXA retains sole discretion to determine the timing of any future sales of its remaining shares of AXA Equitable common stock.

The latest transaction under the Plan, which occurred on November 13, 2019, resulted in the indirect transfer of a “controlling block” of voting securities of the Adviser (a “Change of Control Event”) and was deemed an “assignment” causing a termination of the Fund’s investment advisory agreement. In order to ensure that investment advisory services could continue uninterrupted in the event of a Change of Control Event, the Board previously approved a new investment advisory agreement with the Adviser. Shareholders of the Fund subsequently approved the new investment advisory agreement, which became effective on November 13, 2019.

 

B.   Shareholder Servicing Fee; Transfer Agency Fee

Under the Shareholder Servicing Agreement between the Fund and the Adviser, the Adviser pays expenses it incurs in providing shareholder servicing to the Fund, the Portfolios and individual shareholders. Such services include, but are not limited to, providing information to shareholders concerning their fund investments, systematic withdrawal plans, fund dividend payments and reinvestments, shareholder account or transactions status, net asset value of shares, fund performance, fund services, plans and options, fund investment policies, portfolio holdings and tax consequences of fund investments; dealing with shareholder complaints and other correspondence relating to fund matters; and communications with shareholders when proxies are being solicited from them with respect to voting their fund shares. Under the agreement, the fee paid by each Portfolio to the Adviser for services is 0.25% of the average daily net assets of SCB Class Shares.

The Fund compensates AllianceBernstein Investor Services, Inc. (“ABIS”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Adviser, under a Transfer Agency Agreement for providing personnel and facilities to perform transfer agency services for the Fund. ABIS may make payments to intermediaries that provide omnibus account services, sub accounting services and/or networking services. For the year ended September 30, 2019, the compensation retained by ABIS amounted to: Small Cap Core Portfolio, $256,019; International Small Cap Portfolio, $237,838; and International Strategic Equities Portfolio, $424,970.

 

C.   Distribution Arrangements

Under the Distribution Agreement between the Fund, on behalf of each Portfolio, and Sanford C. Bernstein & Co., LLC (the “Distributor”), the Distributor agrees to act as agent to sell shares of the Portfolios. The Distributor receives no fee for this service, and furthermore agrees to pay all expenses arising from the performance of its obligations under this agreement. The Distributor is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Adviser.

 

D.   Investments in Affiliated Issuers

The Portfolios may invest in AB Government Money Market Portfolio (the “Government Money Market Portfolio”) which has a contractual annual advisory fee rate of .20% of the portfolio’s average daily net assets and bears its own expenses. Effective August 1, 2018, the Adviser has contractually agreed to waive .10% of the advisory fee of Government Money Market Portfolio (resulting in a net advisory fee of .10%) until August 31, 2020. In connection with the investment by the Portfolios in Government Money Market Portfolio, the Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee from the Portfolios in an amount equal to each Portfolio’s pro rata share of the effective

 

   
2019 Annual Report     51  


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Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

advisory fee of Government Money Market Portfolio, as borne indirectly by the Portfolios as an acquired fund fee and expense. For the year ended September 30, 2019, such waivers amounted to:

 

PORTFOLIO   AMOUNT  

Small Cap Core

  $ 2,570  

International Small Cap

    29,149  

International Strategic Equities

    60,722  

A summary of the Portfolios’ transactions in shares of the Government Money Market Portfolio for the year ended September 30, 2019 is as follows:

 

PORTFOLIO  

MARKET VALUE

9/30/18

(000)

    

PURCHASES

AT COST

(000)

    

SALES

PROCEEDS

(000)

    

MARKET VALUE

9/30/19

(000)

    

DIVIDEND

INCOME

(000)

 

Small Cap Core

  $ 5,289      $ 114,977      $ 120,266      $ 0      $ 59  

International Small Cap

    49,415        259,718        279,193        29,940        655  

International Strategic Equities

    58,802        1,049,404        1,088,696        19,510        1,371  

 

NOTE 3.

Investment Security Transactions

 

A.   Purchases and Sales

For the year ended September 30, 2019, the Portfolios had purchases and sales transactions, excluding transactions in short-term instruments, as follows:

 

PORTFOLIO  

PURCHASES EXCLUDING

U.S. GOVERNMENT

SECURITIES

    

PURCHASES OF

U.S. GOVERNMENT

SECURITIES

    

SALES EXCLUDING

U.S. GOVERNMENT

SECURITIES

    

SALES OF

U.S. GOVERNMENT

SECURITIES

 

Small Cap Core

  $ 626,800,693      $ 0      $ 564,484,189      $ 0  

International Small Cap

    652,931,097        0        546,689,900        0  

International Strategic Equities

    2,777,898,101        0        2,497,103,700        0  

The cost of investments for federal income tax purposes, gross unrealized appreciation and unrealized depreciation are as follows:

 

           GROSS UNREALIZED     

NET UNREALIZED

APPRECIATION

(DEPRECIATION)

 
PORTFOLIO   COST      APPRECIATION      (DEPRECIATION)  

Small Cap Core

  $ 878,380,467      $ 126,195,685      $ (71,824,193    $ 54,371,492  

International Small Cap

    1,236,800,727        152,747,103        (129,565,128      23,181,975  

International Strategic Equities

    3,956,710,382        386,469,703        (210,276,847      176,192,856  

 

B.   Derivative Financial Instruments

Each Portfolio may use derivatives in an effort to earn income and enhance returns, to replace more traditional direct investments, to obtain exposure to otherwise inaccessible markets (collectively, “investment purposes”), or to hedge or adjust the risk profile of its portfolio.

 

   
52   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


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The principal types of derivatives utilized by the Portfolios, as well as the methods in which they may be used are:

 

   

Futures

Each Portfolio may buy or sell futures for investment purposes or for the purpose of hedging its portfolio against adverse effects of potential movements in the market. The Portfolios bear the market risk that arises from changes in the value of these instruments and the imperfect correlation between movements in the price of the futures and movements in the price of the assets, reference rates or indices which they are designed to track. Among other things, the Portfolios may purchase or sell futures for foreign currencies or options thereon for non-hedging purposes as a means of making direct investment in foreign currencies, as described below under “Currency Transactions”.

At the time a Portfolio enters into futures, a Portfolio deposits and maintains as collateral an initial margin with the broker, as required by the exchange on which the transaction is effected. Such amount is shown as cash collateral due from broker on the statement of assets and liabilities. Pursuant to the contract, the Portfolios agree to receive from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in the value of the contract. Such receipts or payments are known as variation margin and are recorded by the Portfolios as unrealized gains or losses. Risks may arise from the potential inability of a counterparty to meet the terms of the contract. The credit/counterparty risk for exchange-traded futures is generally less than privately negotiated futures, since the clearinghouse, which is the issuer or counterparty to each exchange-traded future, has robust risk mitigation standards, including the requirement to provide initial and variation margin. When the contract is closed, the Portfolios record a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value of the contract at the time it was opened and the time it was closed.

Use of long futures subjects the Portfolios to risk of loss in excess of the amounts shown on the statement of assets and liabilities, up to the notional value of the futures. Use of short futures subjects the Portfolios to unlimited risk of loss. Each Portfolio may enter into futures only on exchanges or boards of trade. The exchange or board of trade acts as the counterparty to each futures transactions; therefore, the Portfolios’ credit risk is subject to failure of the exchange or board of trade. Under some circumstances, futures exchanges may establish daily limits on the amount that the price of futures can vary from the previous day’s settlement price, which could effectively prevent liquidation of unfavorable positions.

During the year ended September 30, 2019, the Small Cap Core Portfolio held futures for non-hedging purposes.

 

   

Forward Currency Exchange Contracts

Each Portfolio may enter into forward currency exchange contracts on either a spot (i.e., cash) or forward basis. Spot contracts are entered into at the rate then prevailing in the currency-exchange market. Forward currency exchange contracts obligate the contracting parties to purchase or sell a specific currency at a specified future date at a specified price. The Portfolios will generally not enter into a forward currency exchange contract with a term greater than one year. The gain or loss arising from the difference between the original contract and the closing of such contract would be included in net realized gain or loss on foreign currency transactions. Fluctuations in the value of open forward currency exchange contracts are recorded for financial reporting purposes as unrealized appreciation and/or depreciation by the Portfolio. Risks may arise from the potential inability of a counterparty to meet the terms of a contract and from unanticipated movements in the value of a foreign currency relative to the U.S. dollar.

Forward currency exchange contracts used to protect the Portfolios from adverse currency movements involve the risk that the Adviser may not accurately predict currency movements. As a result, total return could be adversely affected. The Adviser may seek investment opportunities by taking long or short positions in currencies through the use of currency-related derivatives, including forward currency exchange contracts, futures and options on futures, swaps and other options. The Adviser may enter into foreign currency transactions for investment opportunities when it anticipates that a foreign currency will appreciate or depreciate in value.

Under certain circumstances, the Portfolios may commit a substantial portion or the entire value of the Portfolios to the consummation of these contracts. The Adviser will consider the effect that a substantial commitment of assets to forward currency exchange contracts would have on the investment program of the Portfolios and the flexibility of the Portfolios to purchase additional securities.

During the year ended September 30, 2019, the International Small Cap Portfolio held forward currency exchange contracts for non-hedging purposes. During the year ended September 30, 2019, the International Strategic Equities Portfolio held forward currency exchange contracts for hedging purposes.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     53  


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

A Portfolio typically enters into International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc. Master Agreements (“ISDA Master Agreement”) with its OTC derivative contract counterparties in order to, among other things, reduce its credit risk to OTC counterparties. ISDA Master Agreements include provisions for general obligations, representations, collateral and events of default or termination. Under an ISDA Master Agreement, a Portfolio typically may offset with the OTC counterparty certain derivative financial instruments’ payables and/or receivables with collateral held and/or posted and create one single net payment (close-out netting) in the event of default or termination. In the event of a default by an OTC counterparty, the return of collateral with market value in excess of a Portfolio’s net liability, held by the defaulting party, may be delayed or denied.

A Portfolio’s ISDA Master Agreements may contain provisions for early termination of OTC derivative transactions in the event the net assets of a Portfolio decline below specific levels (“net asset contingent features”). If these levels are triggered, a Portfolio’s OTC counterparty has the right to terminate such transaction and require the Portfolio to pay or receive a settlement amount in connection with the terminated transaction. If OTC derivatives were held at period end, please refer to netting arrangements by the OTC counterparty tables below for additional details.

During the year ended September 30, 2019, the Portfolios had entered into the following derivatives:

 

SMALL CAP CORE PORTFOLIO    ASSET DERIVATIVES      LIABILITY DERIVATIVES  
DERIVATIVE TYPE   

STATEMENT OF ASSETS
AND LIABILITIES

LOCATION

   FAIR VALUE      STATEMENT OF ASSETS
AND LIABILITIES LOCATION
   FAIR VALUE  

Equity contracts

                

Receivable/Payable for variation margin on futures

   $ 670,416

Total

                      $ 670,416  

 

  *

Only variation margin receivable/payable at period end is reported within the statement of assets and liabilities. This amount reflects cumulative unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on futures and centrally cleared swaps as reported in the schedule of investments.

 

DERIVATIVE TYPE    LOCATION OF GAIN OR (LOSS) ON
DERIVATIVES WITHIN STATEMENT
OF OPERATIONS
   REALIZED GAIN
OR (LOSS) ON
DERIVATIVES
    CHANGE IN UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION OR
(DEPRECIATION)
 

Equity contracts

  

Net realized gain (loss) on futures; Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of futures

   $ (1,707,059   $ (567,714

Total

        $ (1,707,059   $ (567,714

 

INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP
PORTFOLIO
   ASSET DERIVATIVES      LIABILITY DERIVATIVES  
DERIVATIVE TYPE   

STATEMENT OF ASSETS
AND LIABILITIES

LOCATION

   FAIR VALUE      STATEMENT OF ASSETS
AND LIABILITIES LOCATION
   FAIR VALUE  

Foreign currency contracts

  

Unrealized appreciation on forward currency exchange contracts

   $ 2,344,043     

Unrealized depreciation on forward currency exchange contracts

   $ 1,936,478  

Total

        $ 2,344,043           $ 1,936,478  

 

   
54   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
DERIVATIVE TYPE    LOCATION OF GAIN OR (LOSS) ON
DERIVATIVES WITHIN STATEMENT
OF OPERATIONS
   REALIZED GAIN
OR (LOSS) ON
DERIVATIVES
     CHANGE IN UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION OR
(DEPRECIATION)
 

Foreign exchange contracts

  

Net realized gain (loss) on forward currency exchange contracts; Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of forward currency exchange contracts

   $ 527,873      $ 2,781,018  

Total

        $ 527,873      $ 2,781,018  

 

INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC
EQUITIES PORTFOLIO
   ASSET DERIVATIVES      LIABILITY DERIVATIVES  
DERIVATIVE TYPE   

STATEMENT OF ASSETS
AND LIABILITIES

LOCATION

   FAIR VALUE      STATEMENT OF ASSETS
AND LIABILITIES LOCATION
   FAIR VALUE  

Foreign currency contracts

  

Unrealized appreciation on forward currency exchange contracts

   $ 11,064,658     

Unrealized depreciation on forward currency exchange contracts

   $ 12,403,074  

Total

        $ 11,064,658           $ 12,403,074  

 

DERIVATIVE TYPE    LOCATION OF GAIN OR (LOSS) ON
DERIVATIVES WITHIN STATEMENT
OF OPERATIONS
   REALIZED GAIN
OR (LOSS) ON
DERIVATIVES
     CHANGE IN UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION OR
(DEPRECIATION)
 

Foreign exchange contracts

  

Net realized gain (loss) on forward currency exchange contracts; Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of forward currency exchange contracts

   $ 20,752,742      $ (10,808,262

Total

        $ 20,752,742      $ (10,808,262

The following tables represent the average monthly volume of the Portfolios’ derivative transactions during the year ended September 30, 2019:

 

SMALL CAP CORE PORTFOLIO        

Futures:

  

Average notional amount of buy contracts

   $ 18,693,725  

 

INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP PORTFOLIO        

Forward Currency Exchange Contracts:

  

Average principal amount of buy contracts

   $ 207,861,008  

Average principal amount of sale contracts

   $ 179,569,194  

 

INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC EQUITIES PORTFOLIO        

Forward Currency Exchange Contracts:

  

Average principal amount of buy contracts

   $ 1,022,616,380  

Average principal amount of sale contracts

   $ 1,015,536,046  

For financial reporting purposes, the Portfolios do not offset derivative assets and derivative liabilities that are subject to netting arrangements in the statement of assets and liabilities.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     55  


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

All OTC derivatives held at period end were subject to netting arrangements. The following tables present the Portfolios’ derivative assets and liabilities by OTC counterparty net of amounts available for offset under ISDA Master Agreements (“MA”) and net of the related collateral received/pledged by the Portfolios as of September 30, 2019. Exchange-traded derivatives and centrally cleared swaps are not subject to netting arrangements and as such are excluded from the tables.

 

INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP PORTFOLIO  
COUNTERPARTY    DERIVATIVE
ASSETS SUBJECT
TO  A MA
     DERIVATIVES
AVAILABLE  FOR
OFFSET
    CASH
COLLATERAL
RECEIVED*
    SECURITY
COLLATERAL
RECEIVED*
     NET AMOUNT  OF
DERIVATIVE
ASSETS
 

Bank of America, NA

   $ 460,694      $ (27,322   $ 0     $ 0      $ 433,372  

Barclays Bank PLC

     676,741        (655,032     (21,709     0        0  

Citibank, NA

     219,204        (219,204     0       0        0  

Natwest Markets PLC

     94,927        (94,927     0       0        0  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

     233,424        (233,424     0       0        0  

UBS AG

     659,053        0       0       0        659,053  

Total

   $ 2,344,043      $ (1,229,909   $ (21,709   $ 0      $ 1,092,425
COUNTERPARTY    DERIVATIVE
LIABILITIES SUBJECT
TO A MA
     DERIVATIVES
AVAILABLE FOR
OFFSET
    CASH
COLLATERAL
PLEDGED*
    SECURITY
COLLATERAL
PLEDGED*
     NET AMOUNT OF
DERIVATIVE
LIABILITIES
 

Bank of America, NA

   $ 27,322      $ (27,322   $ 0     $ 0      $ 0  

Barclays Bank PLC

     655,032        (655,032     0       0        0  

Citibank, NA

     667,449        (219,204     (448,245     0        0  

Natwest Markets PLC

     296,387        (94,927     0       0        201,460  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

     290,288        (233,424     0       0        56,864  

Total

   $ 1,936,478      $ (1,229,909   $ (448,245   $ 0      $ 258,324

 

  *

The actual collateral received/pledged may be more than the amount reported due to over-collateralization.

 

  ^

Net amount represents the net receivable/payable that would be due from/to the counterparty in the event of default or termination. The net amount from OTC financial derivative instruments can only be netted across transactions governed under the same master agreement with the same counterparty.

 

INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC EQUITIES PORTFOLIO  
COUNTERPARTY    DERIVATIVE
ASSETS SUBJECT
TO A MA
     DERIVATIVES
AVAILABLE  FOR
OFFSET
    CASH
COLLATERAL
RECEIVED*
     SECURITY
COLLATERAL
RECEIVED*
     NET AMOUNT  OF
DERIVATIVE
ASSETS
 

Bank of America, NA

   $ 2,385,889      $ (2,033,766   $ 0      $ 0      $ 352,123  

Barclays Bank PLC

     669,710        (669,710     0        0        0  

Citibank, NA

     2,311,831        (2,311,831     0        0        0  

Credit Suisse International

     421,403        (421,403     0        0        0  

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

     685,944        (685,944     0        0        0  

Societe Generale

     4,152,089        (1,690,814     0        0        2,461,275  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

     141,480        (141,480     0        0        0  

UBS AG

     296,312        (296,312     0        0        0  

Total

   $ 11,064,658      $ (8,251,260   $ 0      $ 0      $ 2,813,398

 

   
56   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
COUNTERPARTY    DERIVATIVE
LIABILITIES SUBJECT
TO A MA
     DERIVATIVES
AVAILABLE  FOR
OFFSET
    CASH
COLLATERAL
PLEDGED*
    SECURITY
COLLATERAL
PLEDGED*
     NET AMOUNT  OF
DERIVATIVE
LIABILITIES
 

Bank of America, NA

   $ 2,033,766      $ (2,033,766   $ 0     $ 0      $ 0  

Barclays Bank PLC

     718,799        (669,710     0       0        49,089  

Citibank, NA

     4,044,144        (2,311,831     (920,000     0        812,313  

Credit Suisse International

     784,896        (421,403     0       0        363,493  

Morgan Stanley Capital Services, Inc.

     1,255,501        (685,944     0       0        569,557  

Societe Generale

     1,690,814        (1,690,814     0       0        0  

State Street Bank & Trust Co.

     1,536,229        (141,480     0       0        1,394,749  

UBS AG

     338,925        (296,312     0       0        42,613  

Total

   $ 12,403,074      $ (8,251,260   $ (920,000   $ 0      $ 3,231,814

 

  *

The actual collateral received/pledged may be more than the amount reported due to over-collateralization.

 

  ^

Net amount represents the net receivable/payable that would be due from/to the counterparty in the event of default or termination. The net amount from OTC financial derivative instruments can only be netted across transactions governed under the same master agreement with the same counterparty.

 

C.   Currency Transactions

The Portfolios may invest in non-U.S. Dollar-denominated securities on a currency hedged or unhedged basis. The Portfolios may seek investment opportunities by taking long or short positions in currencies through the use of currency-related derivatives, including forward currency exchange contracts, futures and options on futures, swaps, and other options. The Portfolios may enter into transactions for investment opportunities when it anticipates that a foreign currency will appreciate or depreciate in value but securities denominated in that currency are not held by the Portfolios and do not present attractive investment opportunities. Such transactions may also be used when the Adviser believes that it may be more efficient than a direct investment in a foreign currency-denominated security. The Portfolios may also conduct currency exchange contracts on a spot basis (i.e., for cash at the spot rate prevailing in the currency exchange market for buying or selling currencies).

 

NOTE 4.

Distributions to Shareholders

The tax character of distributions paid during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2019 and September 30, 2018 were as follows:

 

PORTFOLIO    2019        2018  

Small Cap Core

       

Distributions paid from:

       

Ordinary income

   $ 14,027,833        $ 43,711,826  

Long-term capital gains

     49,618,914          9,503,468  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total distributions paid

   $ 63,646,747        $ 53,215,294  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 
       

International Small Cap

                   

Distributions paid from:

       

Ordinary income

   $ 33,502,855        $ 26,750,515  

Long-term capital gains

     70,947,693          15,003,353  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total distributions paid

   $ 104,450,548        $ 41,753,868  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 
       

 

   
2019 Annual Report     57  


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

PORTFOLIO    2019        2018  

International Strategic Equities

                   

Distributions paid from:

       

Ordinary income

   $ 71,212,856        $ 45,938,248  

Long-term capital gains

     44,105,765          51,103,476  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total distributions paid

   $ 115,318,621        $ 97,041,724  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

As of September 30, 2019, the components of accumulated earnings/(deficit) on a tax basis were as follows:

 

PORTFOLIO  

UNDISTRIBUTED

ORDINARY

INCOME

    

UNDISTRIBUTED

LONG-TERM
GAINS

    

ACCUMULATED

CAPITAL AND

OTHER

(LOSSES)(a)

    

UNREALIZED

APPRECIATION/
(DEPRECIATION)(b)

    

TOTAL

ACCUMULATED

EARNINGS/

(DEFICIT)

 

Small Cap Core

  $ 4,045,376      $ 0      $ (9,410,607    $ 54,510,713      $ 49,145,482  

International Small Cap

    24,744,222        0        (69,909,896      23,008,113        (22,157,561

International Strategic Equities

    85,508,033        0        (199,521,872      176,013,349        61,999,510  

 

  (a)

The differences between book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) are attributable primarily to the tax treatment of the tax deferral of losses on wash sales, the tax treatment of passive foreign investment companies (PFICs), and the realization for tax purposes of gains/losses on certain derivative instruments.

For tax purposes, net capital losses may be carried over to offset future capital gains, if any. Portfolios are permitted to carry forward capital losses for an indefinite period, and such losses will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses.

As of September 30, 2019, the following Portfolios had net capital loss carryforwards as follows:

 

PORTFOLIO   SHORT-TERM
AMOUNT
     LONG-TERM
AMOUNT
 

Small Cap Core

  $ 9,410,607      $ 0  

International Small Cap

    46,798,945        23,110,951  

International Strategic Equities

    154,435,582        45,086,290  

 

NOTE 5.

Risks Involved in Investing in the Portfolios

Foreign (Non-U.S.) Securities Risk—Investments in foreign securities entail significant risks in addition to those customarily associated with investing in U.S. securities. These risks include risks related to adverse market, economic, political, regulatory factors and social instability, all of which could disrupt the financial markets in which the Portfolios invest and adversely affect the value of the Portfolios’ assets.

Country Concentration Risk—The Portfolios may not always be diversified among countries or regions and the effect on the share price of the Portfolios of specific risks such as political, regulatory and currency may be magnified due to concentration of the Portfolios’ investments in a particular country or region.

Sector Risk—The Portfolios may have more risk because of concentrated investments in a particular market sector, such as the financials, consumer discretionary, information technology or industrials sector. Market or economic factors affecting that sector could have a major effect on the value of the Portfolios’ investments.

Emerging Markets Securities Risk—The risks of investing in foreign (non-U.S.) securities are heightened with respect to issuers in emerging-market countries because the markets are less developed and less liquid and there may be a greater amount of economic, political and social uncertainty, and these risks are even more pronounced in “frontier” markets, which are investable markets with lower total market capitalization and liquidity than the more developed emerging markets. In addition, the value of the Portfolios’ investments may decline because of factors such as unfavorable or unsuccessful government actions and reduction of government or central bank support.

 

   
58   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


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Foreign Currency Risk—This is the risk that changes in foreign (non-U.S.) currency exchange rates may negatively affect the value of the Portfolios’ investments or reduce the returns of the Portfolios. For example, the value of the Portfolios’ investments in foreign securities and foreign currency positions may decrease if the U.S. Dollar is strong (i.e., gaining value relative to other currencies) and other currencies are weak (i.e., losing value relative to the U.S. Dollar).

Actions by a Few Major Investors—In certain countries, volatility may be heightened by actions of a few major investors. For example, substantial increases or decreases in cash flows of mutual funds investing in these markets could significantly affect local stock prices and, therefore, share prices of the Portfolios.

Illiquid Investment Risk—Illiquid investments risk exists when particular investments are difficult to purchase or sell, possibly preventing the Portfolios from selling securities at an advantageous price. Illiquid securities may also be difficult to value. Derivatives and securities involving substantial market and credit risk may become illiquid.

Redemption Risk—The Portfolios may experience heavy redemptions that could cause the Portfolios to liquidate their assets at inopportune times or unfavorable prices or increase or accelerate taxable gains or transaction costs and may negatively affect the Portfolios’ net asset value, or performance, which could cause the value of your investment to decline. Redemption risk is heightened during periods of overall market turmoil.

Market Risk—The Portfolios are subject to market risk, which is the risk that stock prices in general or in particular countries or sectors may decline over short or extended periods. Stock prices may decline in response to adverse changes in the economy or the economic outlook; deterioration in investor sentiment; interest rate, currency and commodity price fluctuations; adverse geopolitical, social or environmental developments; issuer- and sector-specific considerations; and other factors. In the past decade, financial markets in the United States, Europe and elsewhere have experienced increased volatility, decreased liquidity and heightened uncertainty. These market conditions may recur from time to time and have an adverse impact on various securities markets. Certain governments and central banks have provided significant support to financial markets, including by buying stocks and through other market interventions. Recently, the Federal Reserve has reduced its market support activities and raised interest rates. Further governmental or central bank actions, including interest rate increases or decreases, could negatively affect financial markets generally, increase market volatility and reduce the value and liquidity of securities in which the Portfolios invest.

Current political uncertainty surrounding the European Union (“EU”) and its membership may increase market volatility. The United Kingdom has voted to withdraw from the EU and the consequences for European and UK businesses could be severe. One or more other countries may withdraw from the EU and/or abandon the euro, the common currency of the EU. The financial instability of some countries in the EU, together with the risk of that financial instability impacting other more stable countries, may increase the risk of investing in companies in Europe and worldwide. The United States and its trading partners are periodically involved in disputes over trade, which may result in tariffs on various categories of goods imported from the other country. Trade disputes, particularly prolonged disputes, may adversely affect the economies of the United States and its trading partners, as well as the companies directly or indirectly affected by the dispute and financial markets generally, and thus may adversely affect the value of the Portfolios’ assets. In addition, policy and legislative changes in the United States and in other countries are affecting many aspects of financial regulation, and may in some instances contribute to decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the financial markets. The impact of these changes, and the practical implications for market participants, may not be fully known for some time.

Economies and financial markets throughout the world are becoming increasingly interconnected. Economic, financial or political events, trading and tariff arrangements, terrorism, natural disasters and other circumstances in one country or region could have profound impacts on global economies or markets. As a result, whether or not the Portfolios invest in securities of issuers located in or with significant exposure to countries experiencing economic and financial difficulties, the value and liquidity of the Portfolios’ investments may be negatively affected.

Capitalization Risk—Investments in small- and mid-capitalization companies may be more volatile than investments in large-capitalization companies. Investments in small- and mid capitalization companies may have additional risks because these companies have limited product lines, markets or financial resources.

Allocation Risk—The Portfolios may seek to focus on different investment disciplines or factors at different times as a means to achieve their investment objectives. In the event that the investment disciplines or factors to which the Portfolios have greater exposure perform worse than the investment disciplines or factors with less exposure, the Portfolios’ returns may be negatively affected.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     59  


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

Derivatives Risk—The Portfolios may use derivatives in currency hedging as well as for direct investments to gain access to certain markets, earn income, enhance return and broaden portfolio diversification, which entail greater risk than if used solely for hedging purposes. In addition to other risks such as the credit risk of the counterparty, derivatives involve the risk that changes in the value of the derivative may not correlate with relevant assets, rates or indices. Derivatives may be difficult to price or unwind, and small changes may produce disproportionate losses for the Portfolios. Certain derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the initial investment. Assets required to be set aside or posted to cover or secure derivatives positions may themselves go down in value, and these collateral and other requirements may limit investment flexibility. Some derivatives involve leverage, which can make the Portfolios more volatile and can compound other risks. The U.S. government and certain foreign governments have adopted regulations governing derivatives markets, including mandatory clearing of certain derivatives, and may impose additional regulations governing margin, reporting and registration requirements. The ultimate impact of the regulations remains unclear. Additional regulation may make derivatives more costly, limit their availability or utility, otherwise adversely affect their performance, or disrupt markets.

Management Risk—The Portfolios are subject to management risk because they are actively managed investment portfolios. The Adviser will apply its investment techniques and risk analyses in making investment decisions for the Portfolios, but these techniques, analyses and decisions may not work as intended or may not produce the desired results, and may, during certain periods, result in increased volatility for the Portfolios or cause the value of the Portfolios’ shares to go down. In some cases, derivatives and other investment techniques may be unavailable or the Adviser may determine not to use them, possibly even under market conditions where their use could benefit the Portfolios. In addition, the Adviser may change the Portfolios’ investment strategies or policies from time to time. Those changes may not lead to the results intended by the Adviser and could have an adverse effect on the value or performance of the Portfolios.

REIT Risk—Investing in REITs involves certain unique risks in addition to those risks associated with investing in the real estate industry in general. Equity REITs may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by the REITs, while mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of any credit extended. REITs are dependent upon management skills, are not diversified, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, default by borrowers and self-liquidation. Investing in REITs also involves risks similar to those associated with investing in small-capitalization companies. REITs may have limited financial resources, may trade less frequently and in a limited volume and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements than larger company securities.

Investment in Other Investment Companies Risk—As with other investments, investments in other investment companies, including other registered funds advised by the Adviser and ETFs, are subject to market and selection risk. In addition, if the Portfolios acquire shares of investment companies, shareholders bear both their proportionate share of expenses in the Portfolios (including management and advisory fees) and, indirectly, the expenses of the investment companies.

Portfolio Turnover Risk—The Portfolios’ investment strategies may result in high portfolio turnover. The Portfolios generally buy portfolio securities with the intention of holding them for investment. However, when market conditions or other circumstances warrant, securities may be purchased and sold without regard to the length of time held. This trading may increase the Portfolios’ rate of turnover and the incidence of short-term capital gain taxable as ordinary income. A higher rate of portfolio turnover may increase transaction costs, which must be borne by the Portfolios and their shareholders.

LIBOR Risk—A Portfolio may invest in certain debt securities, derivatives or other financial instruments that utilize the London Interbank Offered Rate, or “LIBOR,” as a “benchmark” or “reference rate” for various interest rate calculations. In July 2017, the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, announced a desire to phase out the use of LIBOR by the end of 2021. Although financial regulators and industry working groups have suggested alternative reference rates, such as European Interbank Offer Rate (“EURIBOR”), Sterling Overnight Interbank Average Rate (“SONIA”) and Secured Overnight Financing Rate (“SOFR”), global consensus on alternative rates is lacking and the process for amending existing contracts or instruments to transition away from LIBOR remains unclear. The elimination of LIBOR or changes to other reference rates or any other changes or reforms to the determination or supervision of reference rates could have an adverse impact on the market for, or value of, any securities or payments linked to those reference rates, which may adversely affect a Portfolio’s performance and/or net asset value. Uncertainty and risk also remain regarding the willingness and ability of issuers and lenders to include revised provisions in new and existing contracts or instruments. Consequently, the transition away from LIBOR to other reference rates may lead to

 

   
60   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents

increased volatility and illiquidity in markets that are tied to LIBOR, fluctuations in values of LIBOR-related investments or investments in issuers that utilize LIBOR, increased difficulty in borrowing or refinancing and diminished effectiveness of hedging strategies, adversely affecting a Portfolio’s performance. Furthermore, the risks associated with the expected discontinuation of LIBOR and transition may be exacerbated if the work necessary to effect an orderly transition to an alternative reference rate is not completed in a timely manner. Because the usefulness of LIBOR as a benchmark could deteriorate during the transition period, these effects could occur prior to the end of 2021.

Cybersecurity Risk—Cybersecurity incidents may allow an unauthorized party to gain access to Portfolio assets, customer data (including private shareholder information), or proprietary information, or cause the Portfolios, the Adviser, and/or its service providers (including, but not limited to, fund accountants, custodians, sub-custodians, transfer agents and financial intermediaries) to suffer data breaches, data corruption or lose operational functionality.

Indemnification Risk—In the ordinary course of business, the Portfolios enter into contracts that contain a variety of indemnifications. The Portfolios’ maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown. However, the Portfolios have not had prior claims or losses pursuant to these indemnification provisions and expect the risk of loss thereunder to be remote. Therefore, the Portfolios have not accrued any liability in connection with these indemnification provisions.

 

NOTE  6.

Capital-Share Transactions

The Fund has authorized 27 billion shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share. Each SCB Class, Advisor Class and Class Z of the Portfolios is allocated 1 billion shares. The balance of the authorized shares have been allocated to share classes that are currently not offered.

Share transactions for each Portfolio for the years ended September 30, 2019 and September 30, 2018, were as follows:

 

    SMALL CAP CORE PORTFOLIO  
         
    SHARES           AMOUNT  
         
    

YEAR

ENDED
9/30/19

    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
          

YEAR

ENDED

9/30/19

   

YEAR

ENDED

9/30/18

 

SCB Class Shares

         

Shares sold

    69,823       126,863       $ 758,037     $ 1,538,717  

Shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    62,349       49,711         635,337       582,617  

Shares redeemed

    (166,504     (177,518       (1,790,120     (2,188,869
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net decrease

    (34,332     (944     $ (396,746   $ (67,535
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
         

Advisor Class Shares

                                       

Shares sold

    16,156,095       7,576,048       $ 174,068,372     $ 93,744,852  

Shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    4,736,603       3,416,907         48,360,719       40,114,486  

Shares redeemed

    (11,002,629     (9,814,913       (119,233,718     (121,124,528
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase

    9,890,069       1,178,042       $ 103,195,373     $ 12,734,810  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
         

Class Z Shares

 

Shares sold

    108,798       1,342,318       $ 1,155,644     $ 16,508,642  

Shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    1,313,198       932,469         13,394,618       10,937,864  

Shares redeemed

    0       (580,101       0       (6,991,704
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase

    1,421,996       1,694,686       $ 14,550,262     $ 20,454,802  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

   
2019 Annual Report     61  


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

 

 

    INTERNATIONAL SMALL CAP PORTFOLIO  
         
    SHARES           AMOUNT  
         
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
          

YEAR

ENDED
9/30/19

   

YEAR

ENDED
9/30/18

 

SCB Class Shares

         

Shares sold

    684,410       737,715       $ 7,113,704     $ 9,546,259  

Shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    532,696       207,896         5,220,418       2,579,987  

Shares redeemed

    (755,928     (950,701       (7,980,810     (12,268,574
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease)

    461,178       (5,090     $ 4,353,312     $ (142,328
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
         
         

Advisor Class Shares

         

Shares sold

    14,129,957       20,358,948       $ 147,796,136     $ 262,216,436  

Shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    6,278,823       1,813,014         61,595,256       22,517,644  

Shares redeemed

    (9,669,961     (4,807,168       (100,418,228     (62,164,075
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase

    10,738,819       17,364,794       $ 108,973,164     $ 222,570,005  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
         

Class Z Shares

                                       

Shares sold

    656,113       2,987,880       $ 7,460,000     $ 37,941,000  

Shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    3,507,365       1,201,868         34,407,253       14,927,196  

Shares redeemed

    (162,029     (588,230       (1,647,682     (7,760,993
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase

    4,001,449       3,601,518       $ 40,219,571     $ 45,107,203  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

    INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC EQUITIES PORTFOLIO  
         
    SHARES           AMOUNT  
         
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
          

YEAR

ENDED
9/30/19

   

YEAR

ENDED
9/30/18

 

SCB Class Shares

         

Shares sold

    1,972,651       3,981,702       $ 22,419,919     $ 51,671,126  

Shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    378,213       344,818         4,084,696       4,341,257  

Shares redeemed

    (1,794,983     (1,783,569       (20,349,142     (23,081,364
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase

    555,881       2,542,951       $ 6,155,473     $ 32,931,019  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
         

 

   
62   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


Table of Contents
    INTERNATIONAL STRATEGIC EQUITIES PORTFOLIO  
         
    SHARES           AMOUNT  
         
     YEAR
ENDED
9/30/19
    YEAR
ENDED
9/30/18
          

YEAR

ENDED
9/30/19

   

YEAR

ENDED
9/30/18

 

Advisor Class Shares

         

Shares sold

    43,767,668       76,216,135       $ 497,567,958     $ 986,549,066  

Shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    5,921,658       4,121,463         64,013,121       51,930,438  

Shares redeemed

    (29,818,923     (13,250,418       (337,249,650     (171,145,141
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase

    19,870,403       67,087,180       $ 224,331,429     $ 867,334,363  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 
         

Class Z Shares

                                       

Shares sold

    1,213,792       12,152,892       $ 13,982,660     $ 155,181,066  

Shares issued to shareholders on reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    3,607,206       2,970,119         39,029,972       37,482,903  

Shares redeemed

    (1,660,224     (1,810,090       (18,263,491     (23,856,897
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net increase

    3,160,774       13,312,921       $ 34,749,141     $ 168,807,072  
 

 

 

   

 

 

     

 

 

   

 

 

 

At September 30, 2019, certain AllianceBernstein mutual funds owned 15%, 23%, and 23% of Small Cap Core Portfolio, International Small Cap Portfolio, and International Strategic Equities Portfolio, respectively, in aggregate of the Portfolios’ outstanding shares. Significant transactions by such shareholders, if any, may impact the Portfolios’ performance.

 

NOTE 7.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued an Accounting Standards Update, ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820), Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement which removes, modifies and adds disclosures to Topic 820. The amendments in this ASU 2018-13 (“ASU”) apply to all entities that are required, under existing U.S. GAAP, to make disclosures about recurring or nonrecurring fair value measurements. The amendments in this ASU are effective for all entities for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. Management has evaluated the impact of the amendments and elected to early adopt the ASU. The adoption of this ASU did not have a material impact on the disclosure and presentation of the financial statements of the Portfolios.

 

NOTE 8.

Subsequent Events

Management has evaluated subsequent events for possible recognition or disclosure in the financial statements through the date the financial statements are issued. Management has determined that there are no material events that would require disclosure in the Portfolios’ financial statements through this date.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     63  


Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of Bernstein Fund, Inc. and Shareholders of Small Cap Core Portfolio, International Small Cap Portfolio and International Strategic Equities Portfolio

Opinions on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of Small Cap Core Portfolio, International Small Cap Portfolio and International Strategic Equities Portfolio (constituting Bernstein Fund, Inc., hereafter collectively referred to as the “Portfolios”) as of September 30, 2019, the related statements of operations for the year ended September 30, 2019, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended September 30, 2019, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Portfolios as of September 30, 2019, the results of each of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in each of their net assets for each of the two years in the period ended September 30, 2019 and each of the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

Basis for Opinions

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Portfolios’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Portfolios’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Portfolios in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits of these financial statements in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of September 30, 2019 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

New York, New York

November 26, 2019

We have served as the auditor of one or more of the investment companies in the AB Group of Mutual Funds since at least 1985. We have not been able to determine the specific year we began serving as auditor.

 

   
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2019 Federal Tax Information (Unaudited)

 

For Federal income tax purposes, the following information is furnished with respect to the distributions paid by each applicable Portfolio during the taxable year ended September 30, 2019. For corporate shareholders, the following percentages of dividends paid by each Portfolio qualify for the dividends received deduction.

 

PORTFOLIO   

DIVIDENDS RECEIVED

DEDUCTION %
(CORPORATE SHAREHOLDERS)

           

Small Cap Core

     41.96           

For the taxable year ended September 30, 2019, each Portfolio designates the following amounts as the maximum amount that may be considered qualified dividend income for individual shareholders.

 

PORTFOLIO   

QUALIFIED

DIVIDEND INCOME

           

Small Cap Core

   $ 5,995,994       

International Small Cap

     27,262,836       

International Strategic Equities

     83,063,464             

Certain Portfolios intend to make an election to pass through foreign taxes paid by the Portfolios to their shareholders. For the taxable year ended September 30, 2019, the maximum amounts of foreign taxes that may be passed through and the foreign source income for information reporting purposes is as follows:

 

PORTFOLIO   

FOREIGN TAXES

TO PASS THROUGH

     FOREIGN SOURCE
INCOME

International Small Cap

   $3,603,435      $38,636,819

International Strategic Equities

   11,850,608      135,102,973

Shareholders should not use the above information to prepare their income tax returns. The information necessary to complete your income tax returns will be included with your Form 1099-DIV which will be sent to you separately in January 2020.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     65  


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Bernstein Fund, Inc.

 

 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Debra Perry(1)(3)

Chair

Kathleen M. Fisher(4)

President

Bart Friedman(1)(5)

Director

R. Jay Gerken(1)

Director

Jeffrey R. Holland(1)

Director

William Kristol(1)

Director

Michelle McCloskey(1)

Director

Donald K. Peterson(1)

Director

 

 

OFFICERS

Andrew Birse(2),

Vice President

Peter Chocian(2),

Vice President

Serdar Kalaycioglu(2),

Vice President

Samantha S. Lau(2),

Vice President

Stuart Rae(2),

Vice President

Sammy Suzuki(2),

Vice President

Nelson Yu(2),

Vice President

 

 

Emilie D. Wrapp,

Secretary

Michael B. Reyes,

Senior Analyst

Joseph J. Mantineo,

Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer

Phyllis J. Clarke,

Controller

Vincent S. Noto,

Chief Compliance Officer

 

 

CUSTODIAN AND ACCOUNTING AGENT

State Street Bank and Trust Company

State Street Corporation CCB/5

1 Iron Street

Boston, MA 02210

 

 

PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITER

AllianceBernstein Investments, Inc.

1345 Avenue of the Americas

New York, NY 10105

 

 

TRANSFER AGENT

AllianceBernstein Investor Services, Inc.

P.O. Box 786003

San Antonio, TX 78278-6003

Toll-Free (800) 221-5672

 

 

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

300 Madison Avenue

New York, NY 10017

 

 

LEGAL COUNSEL

Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

787 Seventh Avenue

New York, NY 10019-6099

 

 

(1)   Member of the Audit Committee, the Governance, Nominating and Compensation Committee, and the Independent Directors Committee.
(2)   The day-to-day management of, and investment decisions for, the Portfolios are made by the senior management teams. Messrs. Rae and Suzuki are the investment professionals with the most significant responsibility for the day-to-day management of the International Strategic Equities Portfolio. Messrs. Birse, Chocian and Yu are the investment professionals with the most significant responsibility for the day-to-day management of the International Small Cap Portfolio. Ms. Lau and Mr. Kalaycioglu are the investment professionals with the most significant responsibility for the day-to-day management of the Small Cap Core Portfolio.
(3)   Member of the Special Pricing Committee.
(4)   Ms. Fisher is expected to retire on or about March 31, 2020.
(5)   Mr. Friedman is expected to retire on or about December 31, 2019.

 

   
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DIRECTORS’ INFORMATION

 

    
Name, Address+, Age,
(Year of Election*)
   Principal Occupation(s)
During Past Five (5) Years and Other
Information
   Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen
By Director
     Other Directorships
Currently Held by Director

INTERESTED DIRECTOR

     

Kathleen M. Fisher,**

c/o AllianceBernstein L.P.

1345 Avenue of the Americas

New York, NY 10105

65

(2017)

   Senior Vice President of the Investment Manager with which she has been associated since prior to 2014. She has been the Head of Wealth and Investment Strategies of the Manager’s Bernstein Private Wealth Management unit since 2014, leading the team responsible for developing and communicating asset allocation advice and investment strategies for Bernstein’s high-net-worth clients. Since 2013, Ms. Fisher has overseen research on investment planning and wealth transfer issues facing high-net-worth families, endowments and foundations. She has been a National Managing Director of Bernstein since 2009. She joined AB in 2001 as a Senior Portfolio Manager. Prior to joining AB, she spent 15 years at J.P. Morgan, most recently as a managing director advising banks on acquisitions, divestitures and financing techniques. Prior thereto, she held positions at both Morgan Stanley and at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.      19      Southwestern Vermont Health Care; and Hildene—The Lincoln Family Home

DISINTERESTED DIRECTORS

     

Debra Perry,#^

Chair of the Board

68

(2011)

   Formerly, Senior Managing Director of Global Ratings and Research, Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. from 2001 to 2004; Chief Administrative Officer, Moody’s, from 1999 to 2001; Chief Credit Officer, Moody’s, from 2000 to 2001; Group Managing Director for the Finance, Securities and Insurance Ratings Groups, Moody’s Corp., from 1996 to 1999; Earlier she held executive positions with First Boston Corporation and Chemical Bank.      19      Assurant, Inc., since 2017; Genworth Financial, Inc., since 2016; Korn/Ferry International, since 2008; PartnerRe, from 2013-2016; Bank of America Funds Series Trust, from 2011-2016

Bart Friedman,#***

74

(2005)

  

Senior Counsel at Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP (law firm) since 2017 and Senior Partner thereof from prior to 2014 until 2017.

     19      Chair of the Audit Committee of The Brookings Institution; Chair of the Audit and Compensation Committees of Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts; and Ovid Therapeutics, Inc., where he serves as Lead Director

 

   
2019 Annual Report     67  


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Bernstein Fund, Inc. (continued)

 

 

   

DIRECTORS’ INFORMATION (continued)

 

    
Name, Address+, Age,
(Year of Election*)
   Principal Occupation(s)
During Past Five (5) Years and Other
Information
   Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen
By Director
     Other Directorships
Currently Held by Director

R. Jay Gerken,#

68

(2013)

   Formerly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Legg Mason Partners Fund Advisor, LLC, and President & Board Member of The Legg Mason and Western Asset mutual funds from 2005 until June 2013. Previously, he was the President and Chair of the funds boards of the Citigroup Asset Management mutual funds from 2002 to 2005; Portfolio Manager and Managing Director, Smith Barney Asset Management from 1993 to 2001 and President & CEO, Directions Management of Shearson Lehman, Inc. from 1988 to 1993.      19      Cedar Lawn Corporation; New Jersey Chapter of The Nature Conservancy; United Methodist Foundation of New Jersey; and Associated Banc-Corp

Jeffrey R. Holland,#

53

(2019)

   Formerly, Limited Partner of Brown Brothers Harriman from 2014 to 2018. Prior thereto, General Partner of Brown Brothers Harriman from 2006 to 2013.      19      Director of various non-profit organizations

William Kristol,#

66

(1994)

  

Founder and Editor, The Weekly Standard from 1995 to 2018. He is a regular contributor on the leading political commentary shows. He has served as the inaugural Vann Professor of Ethics and Society at Davidson College since 2019.

     19     

Manhattan Institute; John M. Ashbrook Center for Public Affairs at Ashland University; The Salvatori Center at Claremont McKenna College; The Institute for the Study of War; Foundation for Constitutional Government; and Defending Democracy Together, a non-profit educational corporation

 

   
68   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


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DIRECTORS’ INFORMATION (continued)

 

    
Name, Address+, Age,
(Year of Election*)
   Principal Occupation(s)
During Past Five (5) Years and Other
Information
   Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen
By Director
     Other Directorships
Currently Held by Director

Michelle McCloskey,#

57

(2019)

   Formerly, President of Americas, Man Group from 2017 to August 2019 and President of Man FRM from 2015 to August 2019. Prior thereto, she was a Senior Managing Director of Man FRM from 2012 to 2015. While at the Man Group, she served on the Executive Committee of Man Group plc from 2012 to 2019, as Chief Executive Officer, Board of Managers of Man Alternative Multi Strategy Fund from 2016 to 2019 and as President and Chairman of the Board of the Pine Grove Institutional Funds from 2016 to 2019. She currently serves on the Investment Advisory Committee of Texas Tech University Endowment.      19     

None

Donald K. Peterson,#

70

(2007)

   Formerly, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Avaya Inc. (telecommunications equipment and services) from 2002 to 2006; President and Chief Executive Officer, Avaya Inc. from 2000 to 2001; President, Enterprise Systems Group in 2000; Chief Financial Officer, Lucent Technologies from 1996 to 2000; Chief Financial Officer, AT&T, Communications Services Group from 1995 to 1996; President, Nortel Communications Systems, Inc. (telecommunications and networking equipment) from 1994 to 1995. Prior thereto, he was at Nortel from 1976 to 1995.      19      Worcester Polytechnic Institute, (Emeritus); Member of the Board of TIAA and Member of the Board of TIAA-Bank, FSB

+ The address for each of the Fund’s Disinterested Directors is c/o AllianceBernstein L.P., Attention: Legal and Compliance Department—Mutual Fund Legal, 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10105.

* There is no stated term of office for the Directors.

** Ms. Fisher is an “interested person” as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, because of her affiliation with AllianceBernstein.

# Member of the Audit Committee, the Governance, Nominating, and Compensation Committee, and the Independent Directors Committee.

^ Member of the Special Pricing Committee.

Ms. Fisher is expected to retire on or about March 31, 2020.

*** Mr. Friedman is expected to retire on or about December 31, 2019.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     69  


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Bernstein Fund, Inc. (continued)

 

 

MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND

Name, Address,* and Age    Principal Position(s)
Held with Fund
   Principal Occupation
During Past Five (5) Years

Kathleen M. Fisher, 65

   President    See biography above.

Andrew Birse, 41

   Vice President    Senior Vice President of the Manager**, with which he has been associated since prior to 2014.

Peter Chocian, 47

   Vice President    Vice President of the Manager**, with which he has been associated since prior to 2014.

Serdar Kalaycioglu, 42

   Vice President    Senior Vice President of the Manager**, with which he has been associated since prior to 2014.

Samantha S. Lau, 47

   Vice President    Senior Vice President of the Manager**, with which she has been associated since prior to 2014.

Stuart Rae, 54

   Vice President    Senior Vice President of the Manager**, with which he has been associated since prior to 2014.

Sammy Suzuki, 48

   Vice President    Senior Vice President of the Manager**, with which he has been associated since prior to 2014.

Nelson Yu, 48

   Vice President    Senior Vice President of the Manager**, with which he has been associated since prior to 2014.

Emilie D. Wrapp, 63

   Secretary    Senior Vice President, Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Secretary of ABI**, with which she has been associated since prior to 2014.

Michael B. Reyes, 43

   Senior Analyst    Vice President of the Manager**, with which he has been associated since prior to 2014.

Joseph J. Mantineo, 60

   Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer    Senior Vice President of AllianceBernstein Investor Services (“ABIS”)**, with which he has been associated since prior to 2014.

 

   
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MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND (continued)

Name, Address,* and Age    Principal Position(s)
Held with Fund
   Principal Occupation
During Past Five (5) Years

Phyllis J. Clarke, 58

   Controller    Vice President of ABIS**, with which she has been associated since prior to 2014.

Vincent S. Noto, 54

   Chief Compliance Officer    Senior Vice President since 2015 and Mutual Fund Chief Compliance Officer of the Manager** since 2014. Prior thereto, he was Vice President and Director of Mutual Fund Compliance of the Manager** since 2012.

 

 

* The address for each of the Fund’s Officers is 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10105.

** The Manager, ABI and ABIS are affiliates of the Fund.

The Fund’s Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”) has additional information about the Fund’s Directors and Officers and is available without charge upon request. Contact your financial representative or AB at (212) 486-5800, or visit www.bernstein.com, for a free prospectus or SAI.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     71  


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Board’s Consideration of Investment Management Arrangements

 

Bernstein Fund, Inc. (the “Fund”) is subject to Section 15 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. Section 15 provides that any investment advisory agreement with a registered investment company such as the Fund may continue in effect for a period of more than two years from the date of its execution, only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by the board of directors (or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the investment company). Pursuant to this requirement, the Fund’s Board of Directors, including the Directors who are not interested persons of the Fund (the “Independent Directors”), unanimously approved the continuation of the Investment Management Agreement between the Fund, on behalf of the International Strategic Equities Portfolio, International Small Cap Portfolio, and Small Cap Core Portfolio (each, a “Portfolio” and collectively, the “Portfolios”) of the Fund, and AllianceBernstein L.P. (the “Adviser”)(the “Investment Management Agreement”) at a meeting held on October 29-30, 2019.

The following discussion describes the considerations in connection with the Board’s review of the Investment Management Agreement.

In connection with the annual review of the continuation of the Investment Management Agreement between the Fund and the Adviser, counsel to the Independent Directors sent a letter to the Adviser dated August 14, 2019, that contained a list of information requested by the Independent Directors to conduct their annual review. The Board of Directors, including the Independent Directors, met in person and received and evaluated extensive materials relating to the continuation of the Investment Management Agreement from the Adviser during meetings in September and October 2019. In addition, the Board received materials from the Senior Analyst and an independent fee consultant as described below. On September 26, 2019, the Board of Directors held an in-person meeting to discuss its review of the Investment Management Agreement and the materials the Directors had been provided. At that meeting, the Independent Directors met separately with their independent counsel and the Senior Analyst and the independent fee consultant in executive sessions. Following the September 26, 2019 meeting, the Independent Directors, through counsel, requested certain additional information by means of a letter from their independent counsel dated October 2, 2019, and the Adviser provided certain additional information by means of a letter dated October 17, 2019. The Independent Directors held a telephonic meeting on October 21, 2019 with their independent counsel and the Senior Analyst to discuss the contract renewal materials and supplemental materials provided in response to the Board’s request. On October 29-30, 2019, the Board of Directors held an in-person meeting to continue their review of the Investment Management Agreement. During this meeting, the Adviser provided further information to the Board relating to contract renewal, and the Independent Directors also met separately with counsel to the Independent Directors as well as the Senior Analyst to review the contract renewal materials provided by the Adviser and the materials prepared by the Senior Analyst. At the conclusion of this meeting, the Board approved the continuation of the Investment Management Agreement for an additional annual term as described below.

In approving the Investment Management Agreement, the Board, including the Independent Directors, considered all information it deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the terms of the Investment Management Agreement and considered whether the Agreement would be in the best interests of the Fund. In particular, the Board considered the information that was provided to them by the Adviser in response to their requests, as well as information prepared by the Senior Analyst and the independent fee consultant at the request of the Board. The Fund’s Senior Analyst assists the Board (as well as the boards of other funds sponsored by the Adviser) in evaluating investment management agreements and certain other plans and agreements pursuant to which the Adviser or its affiliates provide services to the Funds. The Board also considered other information provided to the Board in connection with the September 26, 2019, and October 29-30, 2019 meetings and throughout the past year.

The information considered by the Board included information with respect to the nature, extent and quality of services provided, investment performance, fees and expenses, profitability, economies of scale, and fall-out benefits and other revenue.

In the Board’s consideration of the factors discussed below, no single factor was considered in isolation or to be determinative to the decision of the Board to approve the Investment Management Agreement. Rather, the Board concluded, in light of a weighing and balancing of all factors considered and in the exercise of the Directors’ business judgment, that it was in the best interests of the Fund to approve the Investment Management Agreement including the fees to be charged for services thereunder, as summarized below.

Fees and Expenses

The Board, including the Independent Directors, compared the fees and expense ratios of each Portfolio (before and after any fee waivers and expense reimbursements) against fees and expense ratios of a peer group of funds with similar

 

   
72   Bernstein Fund, Inc.


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investment objectives (“peer group”). Both the peer group and the funds within the peer group, with respect to the fee and expense data, were available from Strategic Insight, an independent provider of investment company data. The Senior Analyst also performed analyses of the advisory fees and other Portfolio expenses, and compared such analyses to the Portfolios’ peer groups. In addition, the Board received and considered information from an independent fee consultant regarding the fees and expenses of the Portfolios as well as their investment performance.

The Board also received and considered information about the services rendered, and the fee rates charged, to other clients advised by the Adviser, including information about any recent advisory fee changes with respect to other investment companies advised by the Adviser. The Board noted the differences between the services provided to the Portfolios in comparison to those provided to other types of clients, including institutional clients and other investment companies for which the Adviser acted as subadviser, and the differences in the entrepreneurial and other risks borne by the Adviser in serving the Portfolios compared to other types of clients.

On the basis of its review and consideration of the fees as described above and the Board’s consideration of the other factors described below, and in light of the Adviser’s agreement to continue fee waivers and/or expense caps applicable to the International Small Cap and Small Cap Core Portfolios, the Board concluded that the contractual advisory fees as proposed were reasonable.

Nature, Extent and Quality of Services Provided

The Board, including the Independent Directors, considered the nature, quality and extent of services performed by the Adviser and its affiliates gained from their experience as Directors of the Fund, their overall confidence in the Adviser’s integrity and competence they have gained from that experience, and the Adviser’s initiative in identifying and raising potential issues with the Directors. The Board also considered the Adviser’s responsiveness, frankness and attention to concerns raised by the Directors from time to time, including the Adviser’s willingness to consider and implement organizational changes designed to improve investment results and the services provided to the Portfolios. The Board also considered the scope and quality of the Adviser’s investment management capabilities, other resources dedicated to performing its services, the quality of its compliance, administrative and other services provided to the Portfolios and the background and experience of the Adviser’s senior management. The Board reviewed the qualifications, backgrounds and responsibilities of the investment staff primarily responsible for day-to-day portfolio management services for each Portfolio and noted the Adviser’s commitment to strong research and investment management capabilities throughout changing market environments. The Board reviewed the compliance and administrative services of the Adviser that support the investment advisory services provided to the Portfolios. The Board also considered how the organizational capabilities and financial condition of the Adviser may affect the nature and quality of its services. In that regard, the Board considered the ongoing impacts of the relocation of substantial operations of the Adviser from the New York City area to Nashville, Tennessee. The Board further reviewed updated information about the ongoing divestiture of AXA, S.A. of its holdings of AXA Equitable Holdings, Inc. (“AXA Equitable”). AXA formerly owned all of the outstanding shares of common stock of AXA Equitable, which is an indirect parent of AllianceBernstein Corporation, the general partner of the Adviser, and AXA is in the process of divesting those shares. The Board considered the statements of the Adviser that it has continued to operate as an independent, publicly-traded US asset manager, that the ongoing divestiture has not materially changed the Adviser’s current management structure or strategy, and that the Adviser does not believe that the ongoing divestiture will have a material impact on the Adviser with respect to its operations, personnel, organizational structure, or capitalization, financial and other resources.

In considering the nature and quality of the services provided by the Adviser, the Board, including the Independent Directors, received and considered information about each Portfolio’s investment performance, as well as the performance of its peer group and the performance of an appropriate benchmark index. The Board was provided with performance data versus each Portfolio’s peer group, for the 1-year and 3-year periods ended July 31, 2019 and versus each Portfolio’s benchmark index for the 1-year, 3-year and since inception for the relevant periods, as well as the most recently available Morningstar rating for the Portfolios. The Board also received certain updated performance information as of September 30, 2019. In addition, the Directors considered information showing performance compared to peer groups and benchmarks for rolling calendar year periods and the year to date. The Directors also receive detailed comparative performance information for the Portfolios at each regular Board meeting during the year. The Board recognized that the benchmark indices do not account for fees and expenses incurred by a fund, including the Portfolios. The Directors also considered how peer groups have changed over time and how comparisons may differ depending upon the selection of the peer groups or benchmark indices.

 

   
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Board’s Consideration of Investment Management Arrangements (continued)

 

Where the Portfolios had underperformed their peer groups or benchmark indices, the Directors considered the Adviser’s explanations for performance and, as applicable, measures the Adviser had taken or proposed to take to improve performance. The Directors noted generally the Adviser’s continued efforts to enhance the services provided to the Portfolios. The Directors also noted that they would continue to monitor investment performance closely.

The Board concluded that the Adviser had the experience and resources necessary to provide services of appropriate nature, quality and scope with respect to the Portfolios.

Profitability

The Board, including the Independent Directors, considered the level of the Adviser’s profits in respect of its management of the respective Portfolios. The materials provided to the Independent Directors included information indicating the profitability of the Portfolios to the Adviser for calendar years 2017 and 2018, which had been reviewed by an independent consultant. The Directors reviewed the assumptions and methods of allocation used by the Adviser in preparing fund-specific profitability data and noted that there are many potentially acceptable allocation methodologies for information of this type. The Directors noted that they received information regarding all revenues and expenses of the Adviser’s relationship with the Fund, including those relating to the Adviser’s subsidiaries that provide transfer agency and distribution services to the Fund, and that they had focused on profitability before taxes and distribution expenses. The Directors had also received a presentation at the July 24, 2019 Board meeting from the independent consultant who reviewed the Adviser’s method of calculating profitability. The Directors reviewed comparative information regarding profitability for other publicly-traded advisers, recognizing that it is difficult to make comparisons of profitability among fund advisory contracts because only limited comparative information is publicly available and the comparisons are affected by numerous factors including different cost accounting methodologies.

After reviewing all relevant factors, the Directors, including the Independent Directors, concluded that the levels of the Adviser’s profits in respect of its management of the Portfolios were not excessive.

Economies of Scale

The Board, including the Independent Directors, considered whether there have been economies of scale in respect of the management of the Portfolios, whether the Portfolios have appropriately benefited from any economies of scale, and whether there is potential for realization of any further economies of scale. The Directors discussed possible ways in which any such economies of scale may be shared with the Portfolios, including by investment in enhanced services.

The Directors also considered the Senior Analyst materials which they received in connection with the review of the Investment Management Agreement, which included information reflecting changes in asset levels of the Portfolios and in the profitability of the Adviser over various periods.

After reviewing the profitability and economies of scale information provided by the Adviser, the Board concluded that the benefits of any economies of scale were appropriately being shared with Portfolio investors by way of, among other things and as applicable, establishing advisory fees at levels that contemplated future achievement of scale, recent fee reductions for the International Strategic Equities Portfolio, breakpoint arrangements as currently in effect for the International Strategic Equities Portfolio, the fact that the International Small Cap and Small Cap Core Portfolios are research-intensive and may be capacity-constrained, expense caps and waivers applying to the International Small Cap and Small Cap Core Portfolios, and the Adviser’s continued reinvestment in the business, including by researching and implementing new product enhancements, although the Adviser decreased its operating expenses and staff in recent years. The Directors also noted that they would continue to monitor the growth of the Portfolios.

Fall-Out Benefits and Other Revenue

The Board, including the Independent Directors, also took into account so-called “fall-out benefits” to the Adviser, such as soft dollar arrangements (whereby the Adviser receives the benefit of research services from many of the brokers and dealers that execute purchases and sales of securities on behalf of its clients on an agency basis). The Directors recognized that the Adviser’s profitability would be lower without these benefits. They also considered other benefits potentially derived from an increase in the Adviser’s business as a result of its relationship with the Fund. The Directors concluded that these fall-out benefits to the Adviser were acceptable.

 

   
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Advisory Fee Rate Schedule

On the basis of the information considered, the Board determined to approve the continuation of the Investment Management Agreement for an additional annual term, without change to the Portfolios’ contractual fee schedules, as set forth below.

 

      ADVISORY FEE SCHEDULE
International Small Cap Portfolio    1.00% of the Portfolio’s average net assets.
  
International Strategic Equities Portfolio    0.75% of the first $2.5 billion of the Portfolio’s average net assets; 0.65% of the excess over $2.5 billion up to $5 billion; and 0.60% of the excess of the Portfolio’s average net assets over $5 billion.
  
Small Cap Core Portfolio    0.80% of the Portfolio’s average net assets.

Subsequent Event

As a result of the divestiture by AXA of a substantial portion of its holdings in AXA Equitable, the Investment Management Agreement has automatically terminated as of November 13, 2019, and a new Investment Management Agreement (approved by the Board and the shareholders of the Fund in 2018) has come into effect. The new Investment Management Agreement is identical to the prior Investment Management Agreement other than as to its date.

 

   
2019 Annual Report     75  


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LOGO

Distributor

BERNSTEIN FUND, INC.

1345 AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS, NEW YORK, NY 10105

(212) 756-4097

ISCEC-0151-0919


Table of Contents

ITEM 2. CODE OF ETHICS.

(a) The registrant has adopted a code of ethics that applies to its principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer. A copy of the registrant’s code of ethics is filed herewith as Exhibit 12(a)(1).

(b) During the period covered by this report, no material amendments were made to the provisions of the code of ethics adopted in 2(a) above.

(c) During the period covered by this report, no implicit or explicit waivers to the provisions of the code of ethics adopted in 2(a) above were granted.

ITEM 3. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.

The registrant’s Board of Directors has determined that independent directors Donald K. Peterson, Debra Perry and R. Jay Gerken qualify as audit committee financial experts.

ITEM 4. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.

(a) - (c) The following table sets forth the aggregate fees billed by the independent registered public accounting firm Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP , for the Fund’s last two fiscal years for professional services rendered for: (i) the audit of the Fund’s annual financial statements included in the Fund’s annual report to stockholders; (ii) assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit of the Fund’s financial statements and are not reported under (i), which include advice and education related to accounting and auditing issues, quarterly press release review (for those Funds that issue quarterly press releases), and preferred stock maintenance testing (for those Funds that issue preferred stock); and (iii) tax compliance, tax advice and tax return preparation.

 

            Audit Fees      Audit-Related
Fees
     Tax
Fees*
 

Bernstein Fund Inc. Small Cap Core Portfolio

     2018      $ 21,701.00      $ 800      $ 29,977  
     2019      $ 21,700.00      $ 458      $ 27,530  

Bernstein Fund Inc. International Small Cap Portfolio

     2018      $ 25,000.00      $ 800      $ 40,186  
     2019      $ 25,000.00      $ 458      $ 47,496  

Bernstein Fund Inc. International Strategic Equities Portfolio

     2018      $ 25,000.00      $ 800      $ 23,424  
     2019      $ 25,000.00      $ 458      $ 27,643  

 

*

Paid to Ernst & Young LLP.

(d) Not applicable.

(e) (1) Beginning with audit and non-audit service contracts entered into on or after May 6, 2003, the Fund’s Audit Committee policies and procedures require the pre-approval of all audit and non-audit services provided to the Fund by the Fund’s independent registered public accounting firm. The Fund’s Audit Committee policies and procedures also require pre-approval of all audit and non-audit services provided to the Adviser and Service Affiliates to the extent that these services are directly related to the operations or financial reporting of the Fund.


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(e) (2) All of the amounts for Audit Fees, Audit-Related Fees and Tax Fees in the table under Item 4 (a)–(c) are for services pre-approved by the Fund’s Audit Committee.

(f) Not applicable.

(g) The following table sets forth the aggregate non-audit services provided to the Fund, the Fund’s Adviser and entities that control, are controlled by or under common control with the Adviser that provide ongoing services to the Fund:

 

            All Fees for
Non-Audit Services
Provided to the
Portfolio, the Adviser
and Service Affiliates
     Total Amount of
Foregoing Column Pre-
approved by the Audit
Committee
(Portion Comprised of
Audit Related Fees)
(Portion Comprised of
Tax Fees)
 

Bernstein Fund Inc. Small Cap Core Portfolio

     2018      $ 3,889,159      $ 30,777  
         $ (800)  
         $ (29,977
     2019      $ 3,760,874      $ 27,988  
         $ (458
         $ (27,530

Bernstein Fund Inc. International Small Cap Portfolio

     2018      $ 3,899,368      $ 40,986  
         $ (800)  
         $ (40,186
     2019      $ 3,780,840      $ 47,954  
         $ (458
         $ (47,496

Bernstein Fund Inc. International Strategic Equities Portfolio

     2018      $ 3,882,606      $ 24,224  
         $ (800)  
         $ (23,424
     2019      $ 3,760,987      $ 28,101  
         $ (458
         $ (27,643

(h) The Audit Committee of the Fund has considered whether the provision of any non-audit services not pre-approved by the Audit Committee provided by the Fund’s independent registered public accounting firm to the Adviser and Service Affiliates is compatible with maintaining the auditor’s independence.

ITEM 5. AUDIT COMMITTEE OF LISTED REGISTRANTS.

Not applicable to the registrant.

ITEM 6. SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS.

Please see Schedule of Investments contained in the Report to Shareholders included under Item 1 of this Form N-CSR.

ITEM 7. DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.

Not applicable to the registrant.

ITEM 8. PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OF CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.

Not applicable to the registrant.


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ITEM 9. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.

Not applicable to the registrant.

ITEM 10. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.

There have been no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the Fund’s Board of Directors since the Fund last provided disclosure in response to this item.

ITEM 11. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

(a) The registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-2(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) are effective at the reasonable assurance level based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of this document.

(b) There were no significant changes in the registrant’s internal controls over financial reporting during the second fiscal quarter of the period that could significantly affect these controls subsequent to the date of their evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

ITEM 12. EXHIBITS.

The following exhibits are attached to this Form N-CSR:

 

EXHIBIT NO.

  

DESCRIPTION OF EXHIBIT

12 (a) (1)

   Code of Ethics that is subject to the disclosure of Item 2 hereof

12 (b) (1)

   Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

12 (b) (2)

   Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

12 (c)

   Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002


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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

(Registrant): Bernstein Fund, Inc.

 

By:   /s/ Kathleen M. Fisher
  Kathleen M. Fisher
  President
Date:   November 29, 2019

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

By:   /s/ Kathleen M. Fisher
  Kathleen M. Fisher
  President
Date:   November 29, 2019
By:   /s/ Joseph J. Mantineo
  Joseph J. Mantineo
  Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer
Date:   November 29, 2019

Exhibit 12(a) (1)

CODE OF ETHICS FOR PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE AND SENIOR FINANCIAL OFFICERS

 

I.

Covered Officers/Purpose of the Code

The AllianceBernstein Mutual Fund Complex’s code of ethics (this “Code”) for the investment companies within the complex (collectively, the “Funds” and each, a “Company”) applies to each Company’s Principal Executive Officer, Principal Financial and Accounting Officer and Controller (the “Covered Officers,” each of whom is set forth in Exhibit A) for the purpose of promoting:

 

 

honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships;

 

 

full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that a registrant files with, or submits to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and in other public communications made by the Company;

 

 

compliance with applicable laws and governmental rules and regulations;

 

 

the prompt internal reporting of violations of the Code to an appropriate person or persons identified in the Code; and

 

 

accountability for adherence to the Code.

Each Covered Officer should adhere to a high standard of business ethics and should be sensitive to situations that may give rise to actual as well as apparent conflicts of interest.

 

II.

Covered Officers Should Handle Ethically Actual and Apparent Conflicts of Interest

Overview. A “conflict of interest” occurs when a Covered Officer’s private interest interferes with the interests of, or his service to, the Company. For example, a conflict of interest would arise if a Covered Officer, or a member of his family, receives improper personal benefits as a result of his position with the Company. For the purposes of this Code, members of the Covered Officer’s family include his or her spouse, children, stepchildren, financial dependents, parents and stepparents.

Certain conflicts of interest arise out of the relationships between Covered Officers and the Company and already are subject to conflict of interest provisions in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“Investment Company Act”) and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (“Investment Advisers Act”). For example, Covered Officers may not individually engage in certain transactions (such as the purchase or sale of securities or other property) with the Company because of their status as “affiliated persons” of the Company. The Company’s and the investment adviser’s compliance programs and procedures are designed to prevent, or identify and correct, violations of these provisions. This Code does not, and is not intended to, repeat or replace these programs and procedures, and such conflicts fall outside of the parameters of this Code.


Although typically not presenting an opportunity for improper personal benefit, conflicts arise from, or as a result of, the contractual relationship between the Company and the investment adviser of which the Covered Officers are also officers or employees. As a result, this Code recognizes that the Covered Officers will, in the normal course of their duties (whether formally for the Company or for the adviser, or for both), be involved in establishing policies and implementing decisions that will have different effects on the adviser and the Company. The participation of the Covered Officers in such activities is inherent in the contractual relationship between the Company and the adviser and is consistent with the performance by the Covered Officers of their duties as officers of the Company. Thus, if performed in conformity with the provisions of the Investment Company Act and the Investment Advisers Act, such activities will be deemed to have been handled ethically. In addition, it is recognized by the Company’s Board of Directors or Trustees (the “Directors”) that the Covered Officers may also be officers or employees of one or more of the other Funds or of other investment companies covered by this or other codes.

Other conflicts of interest are covered by the Code, even if such conflicts of interest are not subject to provisions in the Investment Company Act and the Investment Advisers Act. The following list provides examples of conflicts of interest under the Code, but Covered Officers should keep in mind that these examples are not exhaustive. The overarching principle is that the personal interest of a Covered Officer should not be placed improperly before the interest of the Company.

Each Covered Officer must:

 

 

not use his personal influence or personal relationships improperly to influence investment decisions or financial reporting by the Company whereby the Covered Officer would benefit personally to the detriment of the Company;

 

 

not cause the Company to take action, or fail to take action, for the individual personal benefit of the Covered Officer rather than the benefit of the Company;

 

 

not use material non-public knowledge of portfolio transactions made or contemplated for the Company to trade personally or cause others to trade personally in contemplation of the market effect of such transactions;

 

2


There are some conflict of interest situations, whether involving a Covered Officer directly or a member of his family, that should always be discussed with the General Counsel of Alliance Capital Management L.P. (the “General Counsel”), if material. Examples of these include:

 

 

service as a director on the board of directors or trustees of any public or private company (other than a not-for-profit organization);

 

 

the receipt of any non-nominal gifts;

 

 

the receipt of any entertainment from any company with which the Company has current or prospective business dealings unless such entertainment is business-related, reasonable in cost, appropriate as to time and place, and not so frequent as to raise any question of impropriety;

 

 

any ownership interest in, or any consulting or employment relationship with, any of the Company’s service providers, other than its investment adviser, principal underwriter, administrator or any affiliated person thereof;

 

 

a direct or indirect financial interest in commissions, transaction charges or spreads paid by the Company for effecting portfolio transactions or for selling or redeeming shares other than an interest arising from the Covered Officer’s employment, such as compensation or equity ownership.

 

III.

Disclosure and Compliance

 

 

Each Covered Officer should familiarize himself with the disclosure requirements and disclosure controls and procedures generally applicable to the Company;

 

 

each Covered Officer should not knowingly misrepresent, or cause others to misrepresent, facts about the Company to others, whether within or outside the Company, including to the Company’s directors and auditors, and to governmental regulators and self-regulatory organizations;

 

 

each Covered Officer should, to the extent appropriate within his area of responsibility, consult with other officers and employees of the Funds and the adviser with the goal of promoting full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in the reports and documents the Funds file with, or submit to, the SEC and in other public communications made by the Funds; and

 

3


 

it is the responsibility of each Covered Officer to promote compliance with the standards and restrictions imposed by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

 

IV.

Reporting and Accountability

Each Covered Officer must:

 

 

upon adoption of the Code (or thereafter as applicable, upon becoming a Covered Officer), affirm in writing to the General Counsel that he has received, read, and understands the Code;

 

 

annually thereafter affirm to the General Counsel that he has complied with the requirements of the Code;

 

 

complete at least annually a questionnaire relating to affiliations or other relationships that may give rise to conflicts of interest;

 

 

not retaliate against any other Covered Officer or any employee of the Company or their affiliated persons for reports of potential violations that are made in good faith; and

 

 

notify the General Counsel promptly if he knows of any violation of this Code. Failure to do so is itself a violation of this Code.

The General Counsel is responsible for applying this Code to specific situations in which questions are presented under it and has the authority to interpret this Code in any particular situation. However, waivers sought by a Covered Officer will be considered by the Company’s Audit Committee (the “Committee”).

The Company will follow these procedures in investigating and enforcing this Code:

 

 

the General Counsel will take all appropriate action to investigate any potential violations reported to him;

 

 

if, after such investigation, the General Counsel believes that no material violation has occurred, the General Counsel is not required to take any further action;

 

 

any matter that the General Counsel believes is a material violation will be reported to the Committee;

 

 

if the Committee concurs that a material violation has occurred, it will inform and make a recommendation to the Directors, who will consider appropriate action, which may include review of, and appropriate modifications to, applicable policies and procedures; notification to appropriate personnel of the investment adviser or its board; or a recommendation to dismiss the Covered Officer;

 

 

the Committee will be responsible for granting waivers, as appropriate; and

 

 

any changes to or waivers of this Code will, to the extent required, be disclosed as provided by SEC rules.

 

4


V.

Other Policies and Procedures

This Code shall be the sole code of ethics adopted by the Company for purposes of Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and the rules and forms applicable to registered investment companies thereunder. Insofar as other policies or procedures of the Company, the Company’s adviser, principal underwriter, or other service providers govern or purport to govern the behavior or activities of the Covered Officers who are subject to this Code, it is understood that this Code is in all respects separate and apart from, and operates independently of, any such policies and procedures. In particular, the Company’s and its investment adviser’s and principal underwriter's codes of ethics under Rule 17j-l under the Investment Company Act are separate requirements applying to the Covered Officers and others, and are not part of this Code.

 

VI.

Amendments

Any amendments to this Code, other than amendments to Exhibit A, must be approved or ratified by a majority vote of the Directors, including a majority of independent directors.

 

VII.

Confidentiality

All reports and records prepared or maintained pursuant to this Code will be considered confidential and shall be maintained and protected accordingly. Except as otherwise required by law or this Code, such matters shall not be disclosed to anyone other than the Directors, the investment adviser, their counsel, counsel to the Company and, if deemed appropriate by the Directors of the Company, to the Directors of the other Funds.

 

VIII.

 Internal Use

The Code is intended solely for internal use by the Funds and does not constitute an admission, by or on behalf of any Company, as to any fact, circumstance, or legal conclusion.

Date: July 22, 2003, as amended March 17, 2004

 

5


Exhibit A

Persons Covered by this Code of Ethics

Principal Executive Officer

Principal Financial and Accounting Officer

Controller

 

6

Exhibit 12(b)(1)

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER

I, Kathleen M. Fisher, President of Bernstein Fund, Inc., certify that:

1. I have reviewed this report on Form N-CSR of Bernstein Fund, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations, changes in net assets, and cash flows (if the financial statements are required to include a statement of cash flows) of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) for the registrant and have:

 

a)

designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

b)

designed such internal control over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

c)

evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this report based on such evaluation; and

 

d)

disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and


5. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial information; and

b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: November 29, 2019

 

/s/ Kathleen M. Fisher
Kathleen M. Fisher
President


Exhibit 12(b)(2)

CERTIFICATION OF PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER

I, Joseph J. Mantineo, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of Bernstein Fund, Inc., certify that:

1. I have reviewed this report on Form N-CSR of Bernstein Fund, Inc.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations, changes in net assets, and cash flows (if the financial statements are required to include a statement of cash flows) of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) for the registrant and have:

 

a)

designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

b)

designed such internal control over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

c)

evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this report based on such evaluation; and

 

d)

disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and


5. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial information; and

b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: November 29, 2019

 

/s/ Joseph J. Mantineo
Joseph J. Mantineo
Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer

EXHIBIT 12(c)

CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE

SARBANES-OXLEY ACT

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 1350, each of the undersigned, being the Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer of Bernstein Fund, Inc. (the “Registrant”), hereby certifies that the Registrant’s report on Form N-CSR for the period ended September 30, 2019 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Registrant.

Date: November 29, 2019

 

By:  

/s/ Kathleen M. Fisher

  Kathleen M. Fisher
  President

 

By:  

/s/ Joseph J. Mantineo

  Joseph J. Mantineo
  Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer

This certification is being furnished solely pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to the Registrant and will be retained by the Registrant and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.