As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 30, 2024.
Registration Nos.
333-280485
811-22328
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
Form
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
☒
Pre-Effective Amendment No.
1
☒
Post-Effective Amendment No. ___
☐
and/or
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940
☒
Amendment No.
8
☒
(Check Appropriate Box or Boxes)
COLUMBIA SELIGMAN PREMIUM TECHNOLOGY GROWTH FUND, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
290 Congress Street
, Boston
, Massachusetts
02110
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code: (
866
) 666-1532
Daniel J. Beckman c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers , LLC290 Congress Street Boston, Massachusetts 02110 |
Ryan C. Larrenaga, Esq. c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC 290 Congress Street Boston, Massachusetts 02110 |
(Name and Address of Agents for Service)
The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the Registrant shall file a further amendment which specifically states
this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such
dates as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.
Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering: As soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement
☐
Check box if the only securities being registered on this Form are being offered pursuant to dividend or interest
reinvestment plans.
☒
Check box if any securities being registered on this Form will be offered on a delayed or continuous basis in
reliance on Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933 (“Securities Act”), other than securities offered in connection with a
dividend reinvestment plan.
☒
Check box if this Form is a registration statement pursuant to General Instruction A.2 or a post-effective
amendment thereto.
☐
Check box if this Form is a registration statement pursuant to General Instruction B or a post-effective amendment
thereto that will become effective upon filing with the Commission pursuant to Rule 462(e) under the Securities Act.
☐
Check box if this Form is a post-effective amendment to a registration statement filed pursuant to General
Instruction B to register additional securities or additional classes of securities pursuant to Rule 413(b) under the
Securities Act
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box)
☐
when declared effective pursuant to section 8(c)
The following boxes should only be included and completed if the registrant is making this filing in accordance with Rule 486
under the Securities Act.
☐
immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
☐
on (date) pursuant to paragraph (b)
☐
60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)
☐
on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)
If appropriate, check the following box:
☐
This [post-effective] amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed [post-effective
amendment][registration statement].
☐
This Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act
and the Securities Act registration number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering is _____.
☐
This Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, and the Securities
Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering is: ______.
☐
This Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, and the Securities
Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering is: ______.
Check each box that appropriately characterizes the Registrant:
☒
Registered Closed-End Fund (closed-end company that is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940
(“Investment Company Act”)).
☐
Business Development Company (closed-end company that intends or has elected to be regulated as a business
development company under the Investment Company Act).
☐
Interval Fund (Registered Closed-End Fund or a Business Development Company that makes periodic repurchase
offers under Rule 23c-3 under the Investment Company Act).
☒
A.2 Qualified (qualified to register securities pursuant to General Instruction A.2 of this Form).
☐
Well-Known Seasoned Issuer (as defined by Rule 405 under the Securities Act).
☐
Emerging Growth Company (as defined by Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange
Act”).
☐
If an Emerging Growth Company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended
transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section
7(a)(2)(B) of Securities Act.
☐
New Registrant (registered or regulated under the Investment Company Act for less than 12 calendar months
preceding this filing).
Prospectus
November
15
, 2024
The information in this Prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until
the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This Prospectus is not
an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer
or sale is not permitted.
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION | PRELIMINARY PROSPECTUS | DATED AS OF
October 30
, 2024
UP TO 8,000,000 COMMON SHARES
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology
Growth Fund, Inc.
COMMON SHARES
NYSE: STK |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. (the Fund) is a publicly traded non-diversified, closed-end
management investment company, which commenced operations on November 30, 2009. The Fund seeks growth of
capital and current income. The Fund’s investment manager, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC (the
Investment Manager or Columbia Management), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. (Ameriprise
Financial), has managed the Fund since the Fund’s inception. Under normal market conditions, the Fund’s investment
program consists primarily of investing in a portfolio of
common stock
of technology and technology-related companies
that seeks to exceed the total return, before fees and expenses, of the S&P North America Technology Sector Index
®
and writing call options on the Nasdaq 100 Index
®
, an unmanaged index
of the 100 largest
non-financial domestic and
international companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market
based on market capitalization (the Nasdaq 100)
, or
an
exchange-traded fund equivalent
on a month-to-month basis, with an aggregate notional amount typically ranging from
0% to 90% of the underlying value of the Fund’s holdings of common stock. The Fund expects to generate current
income from premiums received from writing call options on the Nasdaq 100. No assurance can be given that the Fund
will achieve its investment objectives.
The Fund has entered into a Distribution Agreement, dated June 20, 2024 (the Distribution Agreement), between the
Fund and ALPS Distributors, Inc (the Distributor) relating to the Fund’s shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per
share (Common Shares), offered by this Prospectus, as may be supplemented from time to time. In accordance with
the terms of the Distribution Agreement, the Fund may offer and sell up to 8,000,000 Common Shares from time to
time through the Distributor as agent for the Fund for the offer and sale of Common Shares.
The Fund may offer Common Shares (1) directly to one or more purchasers, including existing Stockholders in a rights
offering, (2) through agents; (3) through underwriters; (4) through dealers; or (5) pursuant to the Dividend
Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan. The Distributor may enter into a sub-placement agent agreement (the Sub-Placement
Agent Agreement) with one or more selected dealers (the Sub-Placement Agent). In accordance with the
terms of the Sub-Placement Agent Agreement, the Fund may offer and sell Common Shares from time to time through
the Sub-Placement Agent as sub-placement agent for the offer and sale of Common Shares. The Fund will compensate
the Distributor with respect to sales of Common Shares at a commission rate of 1.00% of the gross proceeds of the
sale of Common Shares. Out of this commission, the Distributor will compensate the Sub-Placement Agent at a rate of
up to 0.80% of the gross sales proceeds of the sale of the Common Shares sold by the Sub-Placement Agent. In
connection with the sale of the Common Shares on behalf of the Fund, the Distributor may be deemed to be an
“underwriter” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 (the 1933 Act) and the compensation of the Distributor
may be deemed to be underwriting commissions or discounts.
Sales of Common Shares, if any, under this Prospectus may be made in negotiated transactions or by any method
permitted by law deemed to be an “at the market offering” as defined in Rule 415(a)(4) under the 1933 Act.
The Fund’s charter provides that the Fund may issue up to 1,000,000,000 Common Shares. The Fund’s currently
outstanding Common Shares are, and the Common Shares offered by this Prospectus will be, listed on the New York
Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “STK.”
Common Shares offered under this Prospectus will be offered at
prevailing market prices on the NYSE. See the
Summary of the Fund – The Fund Offering and Plan of Distribution of
Common Shares
.
As of
September 30
, 2024, the net asset value (NAV) per share of the Fund’s Common Shares was
$
32.63
and the last reported sale price for the Fund’s Common Shares on the NYSE was $
33.49
per share,
representing a premium to net asset value of
2.64
%. To the extent that the market price per Common Share, less any
distributing commission or discount, is less than the then current NAV per Common Share from time to time, the Fund
will instruct the Distributor not to make any sales at such time.
This Prospectus, as may be supplemented from time to time, sets forth the information that a prospective investor
should know about the Fund before investing. Investors are advised to read this Prospectus carefully and to retain it
for future reference. Additional information about the Fund, including a Statement of Additional Information (SAI) dated
November 15, 2024, also as supplemented from time to time, has been filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission (the SEC). This and the SAI are part of a registration statement filed with the SEC. The Fund’s SAI and
most recent annual and semi-annual reports and future reports to stockholders are available upon request and without
charge by writing to Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, formerly, known as American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC
(the Transfer Agent), at 48 Wall Street, Floor 23, New York, NY 10005, or by calling 866.666.1532. Investors may also
write or call the Transfer Agent in order to request other available information or to make stockholder inquiries. The SAI
is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The Fund’s annual report, which contains financial statements of the
Fund for the year ended December 31, 2023, and June 30, 2024 semi-annual report, are incorporated by reference
into the SAI. The SAI and the Fund’s most recent annual and semi-annual reports are also available at
columbiathreadneedleus.com/investor. Additional information about the Fund has been filed with the SEC and is
available upon written or oral request and without charge. The SEC maintains a website (www.sec.gov) that contains
the Prospectus, SAI, material incorporated by reference, and other information filed electronically by the Fund. You may
also obtain these documents, after paying a duplication fee, by electronic request at the following email address:
publicinfo@sec.gov.
Common Shares do not represent a deposit or obligation of, and are not guaranteed or endorsed by, any bank or other
insured depository institution, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal
Reserve Board or any other government agency.
Investing in shares involves certain risks. Information on the risks of investing in the Fund can be found below
within the “More Information About the Fund - Principal Risks” section of this Prospectus.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of
these securities or determined this prospectus to be accurate or adequate. Any representation to the contrary is a
criminal offense.
Table of Contents
You should rely only on the information contained or incorporated by reference in this Prospectus in making your
investment decisions. The Fund has not authorized any other person to provide you with different or inconsistent
information. If anyone provides you with different or inconsistent information, you should not rely on it. The Fund
takes no responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others
may give you. This Prospectus does not constitute an offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in
any jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted. The information appearing in this Prospectus is accurate only
as of the date on its front cover. The Fund’s business, financial condition and prospects may have changed since
such date. The Fund will advise investors of any material changes to the extent required by applicable law.
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3 | |
4 | |
10 | |
13 | |
14 | |
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16 | |
17 | |
19 | |
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20 | |
26 | |
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30 | |
30 | |
32 | |
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33 | |
37 | |
39 | |
42 | |
42 | |
42 | |
42 | |
43 | |
43 | |
44 |
2
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology
Growth
Fund, Inc.Summary of the Fund
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy, hold and sell Common Shares. The following
table should not be considered a representation of the Fund’s future expenses relating to Common Shares. Actual
expenses may be greater or less than those shown below.
You may pay other fees, such as brokerage commissions
and other fees to financial intermediaries, which are not reflected in the tables and examples below.
Stockholder Transaction Expenses | |
Sales Load (as a percentage of offering price) (a) |
1.00 % |
Offering Expenses |
None (b) |
Dividend Investment Plan and Stock Repurchase Program Fees |
None (c) |
Annual Expenses (as a percentage of net assets attributable to Common Shares) | ||||||||||
Management fees (d) |
1.06 % |
|||||||||
Other expenses |
0.07 % |
|||||||||
Total Annual Expenses (e) |
1.13 % |
|||||||||
(a)
Represents the maximum commission with respect to the Common Shares being sold
in this offering that the Fund may pay to the Distributor
in connection with sales of Common Shares
under this Prospectus.
This is the only sales load to be paid in connection with this offering.
There
is no guarantee that there will be any sales of Common Shares under this Prospectus.
(b)
Columbia Management will pay the expenses of the
offering
(other than the applicable commissions); therefore,
offering
expenses are not
included in the
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
.
(c)
There are no service or brokerage charges to participants in the Fund’s Dividend In
ve
stment Plan; however, the Fund reserves the right to amend the plan to include a service charge payable to the Fund by the participants. The Fund reserves the right to amend this plan to provide
for payment of brokerage fees by the plan participants in the event the plan is changed to provide for open market purchases of Fund Common
Shares on behalf of plan participants. You will pay brokerage charges if you direct your broker or the plan agent to sell your Common Shares
that you acquired pursuant to this plan. The expenses of administering the Fund’s Dividend Investment Plan and Stock Repurchase Program
are included in “Other Expenses” of the Fund. You may also pay a pro rata share of brokerage commissions incurred in connection with open-
market purchases pursuant to the Fund’s Stock Repurchase Program.
(d)
The Fund’s management fee is 1.06% of the Fund’s average daily Managed Assets (which means the net asset value of Fund’s outstanding
Common Shares plus the liquidation preference of any issued and outstanding preferred stock of the Fund and the principal amount of any
borrowing used for leverage). The management fee rate noted in the table reflects the rate paid the Common Stockholders as a percentage of
the Fund’s net assets attributable to Common Shares. As of the date of this Prospectus, the Fund has not issued securities other than
Common Shares.
(e)
“Total Annual Expenses” include acquired fund fees and expenses (expenses the Fund incurs indirectly through its investments in other
investment companies) and may be higher than “Total gross expenses” shown in the
Financial Highlights
section of this prospectus because
“Total gross expenses” does not include acquired fund fees and expenses.
Example
The following example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in
other funds
(including an assumed total sales load or commission of 1.00%)
. The example illustrates the
hypothetical expenses that you would incur over the time periods indicated, and assumes that:
■
you invest $1,000 in the Fund for the periods indicated,
■
all dividends and other distributions are reinvested at NAV per Common Share,
■
the market price at the time of investment was equal to the NAV per Common Share,
■
your investment has a 5% return each year, and
■
the Fund’s total annual operating expenses remain the same as shown in the
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
table above.
Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on the assumptions listed above, your costs would be:
1 year |
3 years |
5 years |
10 years | |
Common Shares |
$ 21 |
$ 46 |
$ 72 |
$ 146 |
3
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Summary of the Fund
(continued)
The purpose of the tables above is to assist you in understanding the various costs and expenses you will bear
directly or indirectly. The example should not be considered a representation of future expenses. While the example
assumes reinvestment of all dividends and distributions at NAV, participants in the Fund’s Dividend Investment Plan
may receive Common Shares purchased or issued at a price or value different from NAV. The example does not
include estimated offering costs of Common Shares offered by this Prospectus, which, if not for being paid by the
Investment Manager, would cause the expenses shown in the example to increase. For more complete descriptions
of the various costs and expenses, see
More Information About the Fund – Management of the Fund
.
Prospectus Summary
The following is
a summary of
more detailed information
that can be found in the More Information About the Fund
section of this Prospectus unless otherwise noted
.
The Fund.
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. (the Fund) is a publicly traded non-diversified,
closed-end management investment company, which commenced operations on November 30, 2009.
The Fund’s Investment Objective.
The Fund seeks growth of capital and current income. The Fund’s investment
objective is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Board without approval of the Fund’s stockholders. No
assurance can be given that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.
The Fund’s Investment Strategy.
Under normal market conditions, the Fund
invests at least 80% of its Managed
Assets in a portfolio of equity securities of technology and technology-related companies that the Investment
Manager believes offer attractive opportunities for capital appreciation. Under normal market conditions, the Fund
’s
investment program consists primarily of investing in a portfolio of
common stocks
of technology and technology-related
companies that seeks to exceed the total return, before fees and expenses, of the S&P North American
Technology Sector Index
®
and writing call options on the Nasdaq 100 Index
®
, an unmanaged index
of the 100 largest
non-financial domestic and international companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market
based on market
capitalization
, or
an
exchange-traded fund equivalent (the Nasdaq 100) on a month-to-month basis, with an aggregate
notional amount typically ranging from 0% to 90% of the underlying value of the Fund’s holdings of common stock.
The Fund expects to generate current income from premiums received from writing call options on the Nasdaq 100.
The Fund concentrates its investments in technology and technology-related stocks. Technology and technology-related
companies in which the Fund invests are companies operating in the information technology and
communications services sectors, as well as other related industries, applying a global industry classification
standard, as it may be amended from time to time, to determine industry/sector classifications. Companies in
related industries may also include companies operating in the consumer discretionary and healthcare sectors,
particularly those that are principally engaged in offering or developing products, processes, or services that benefit
significantly from technological advances and improvements. By way of example, technology and technology-related
companies may include semiconductor, semiconductor equipment, technology hardware, storage and peripherals,
software, communication equipment and services, electronic equipment and instruments, internet services and
infrastructure, media, health care equipment and supplies, and medical technology companies. The Fund tends to
focus its technology and technology-related investments on companies in the information technology sector (66.6% of
Fund net assets as of June 30, 2024) and the semiconductor and semiconductor equipment industry (31.9% of Fund
net assets as of June 30, 2024). The Fund may invest in companies of any size, including small-, mid-, and large-cap
companies, as well as in foreign companies and debt securities. The Fund may also, subject to the above-mentioned
aggregate notional amount of 90% of the underlying value of the Fund’s holdings of common stock, buy or write other
call and put options on securities, indices, ETFs and market baskets of securities to generate additional income or
return or to provide the portfolio with downside protection.
Further information about the Fund’s investment program
can be found below in the
More Information About the Fund – Investment Objective and Policies
section
of this
Prospectus.
The Fund’s Investment Manager.
The Fund entered into a Management Agreement with Columbia Management
Investment Advisers, LLC (the Investment Manager), a wholly owned subsidiary of Ameriprise Financial, Inc.
(Ameriprise Financial). The Investment Manager has managed the Fund since Fund inception in 2009. Under the
Management Agreement,
subject to oversight by the Board, the
Investment Manager
manages the day-to-
day
operations of the Fund
,
determining what securities and other investments the Fund should buy or sell and executing
Prospectus 2024
4
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Summary of the Fund
(continued)
portfolio transactions. In addition, the Investment Manager provides the Fund with
administrative and accounting
services.
Further information about the Fund’s Investment Manager can be found below in the
More Information
About the Fund – Management of the Fund
section of this Prospectus.
Distributor.
ALPS Distributors, Inc., serves as the Fund’s distributor in connection with the offer and sale of Common
Shares described below under
The Fund Offering
, and is located at 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203.
Exchange Listing.
The Fund’s currently outstanding Common Shares are, and the Common Shares offered by this
Prospectus will be, listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “STK.” As of
September 30
,
2024, the NAV per share of the Fund’s Common Shares was $
32.63
and the last reported sale price for the Fund’s
Common Shares on the NYSE was $
33.49
per share, representing a premium to net asset value of
2.64
%. To the
extent that the market price per Common Share, less any distributing commission or discount, is less than the then
current NAV per Common Share on any given day, the Fund will instruct the Distributor not to make any sales on such
day.
The Fund Offering
and Plan of Distribution of Common Shares
.
The Fund has entered into a Distribution Agreement
between the Fund and the Distributor relating to the Common Shares offered by this Prospectus, as may be
supplemented from time to time. In accordance with the terms of the Distribution Agreement, the Fund may offer and
sell up to 8,000,000 Common Shares from time to time through the Distributor as agent for the Fund for the offer
and sale of Common Shares.
The Distributor may enter into sub-placement agent agreements with one or more selected dealers. The Distributor
has entered into a Sub-Placement Agent Agreement with the Sub-Placement Agent relating to the Common Shares
offered by this Prospectus. In accordance with the terms of the Sub-Placement Agent Agreement, the Fund may offer
and sell Common Shares from time to time through the Sub-Placement Agent as sub-placement agent for the offer
and sale of Common Shares. The Fund will compensate the Distributor with respect to sales of Common Shares at a
commission rate of 1.00% of the gross proceeds of the sale of Common Shares. Out of this commission, the
Distributor will compensate the Sub-Placement Agent at a rate of up to 0.80% of the gross sales proceeds of the sale
of the Common Shares sold by the Sub-Placement Agent. In connection with the sale of the Common Shares on
behalf of the Fund, the Distributor may be deemed to be an “underwriter” within the meaning of the 1933 Act and the
compensation of the Distributor may be deemed to be underwriting commissions or discounts.
Sales of Common Shares, if any, under this Prospectus may be made in negotiated transactions or by any method
permitted by law deemed to be an “at the market offering” as defined in Rule 415(a)(4) under the 1933 Act.
Common Shares may not be sold through agents, underwriters or dealers without delivery or deemed delivery of this
Prospectus describing the method and terms of the offering of Common Shares. Under the Investment Company Act
of 1940 (the 1940 Act), the Fund may not sell Common Shares at a price below the then current NAV per Common
Share, after taking into account any commission or discount.
The Fund may offer
Common Shares
(
1
)
directly to one or more purchasers, including existing Stockholders in a
rights offering, (2) through agents; (3) through underwriters; (4) through dealers; or (5) pursuant to the Dividend
Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan. Common Shares have traded both at a premium and a discount to NAV. The
Fund cannot predict whether Common Shares will trade in the future at a premium or discount to NAV. The provisions
of the 1940 Act applicable to closed-end funds require that the public offering price of common shares (less any
underwriting commissions and discounts) must equal or exceed the NAV per share of the fund’s common stock. The
Fund’s issuance of Common Shares may have an adverse effect on prices in the secondary market for Common
Shares by increasing the number of Common Shares available, which may put downward pressure on the market
price for Common Shares. Shares of common stock of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a
discount to their NAV, which may increase investors’ risk of loss.
The Fund’s NAV will vary and may be affected by numerous factors, including changes in stock prices, option
premiums, and other factors. An investment in the Fund may not be appropriate for all investors. There is no
assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.
Additional information about the Fund offering can be
found in the
Plan of Distribution of Common Shares
section.
5
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Summary of the Fund
(continued)
Use of Proceeds.
The Fund intends to invest the net proceeds of an offering of Common Shares in accordance with
its investment objective and policies as appropriate investment opportunities are identified, depending on market
conditions and the availability of appropriate securities. Pending investment, the proceeds may be held in short-term
securities, including, but not limited to, obligations of the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities, highly
rated money market instruments or mutual funds that invest in such instruments. As a result of this short-term
investment of the proceeds, a lower return may be realized. See
Use of Proceeds
below in this Prospectus for further
information.
Distributions.
The Fund adopted a managed distribution
policy (
the
Distribution Policy
)
that relies upon an exemptive
order obtained from
the
SEC permitting the Fund to distribute long-
term capital gains more often than once in any one
taxable year.
The Fund paid its first dividend under the Fund’
s managed distribution policy in November 2010
. Under
the
Distribution Policy, the Fund intends to make quarterly distributions to Common Stockholders
,
as authorized by
the Board, from legally-available funds,
at a rate that reflects the past and projected performance of the Fund. The
Fund
’s Board of Directors
(the Board) may modify or terminate the Distribution Policy at any time; any such change or
termination may have an adverse effect on the market price for Common Shares. The Fund
expects to receive all or
some of its current income and gains from the following sources: (i) dividends received by the Fund that are paid on
the equity and equity-related securities in its portfolio; and (ii) capital gains (short-term and long-term) from option
premiums and the sale of portfolio securities. It is possible that the Fund’s distributions will at times exceed the
earnings and profits of the Fund and therefore all or a portion of such distributions may constitute a return of capital.
A return of capital is a return of a portion of an investor’s original investment. A return of capital is not taxable, but it
reduces a Stockholder’s tax basis in his or her shares, thus reducing any loss or increasing any gain on a
subsequent taxable disposition by the Stockholder of his or her shares.
Capital returns to
stockholders through
distributions
will be distributed after
the payment
of
Fund fees
and
expenses
.
See
Capital Stock
–
Distributions
and
Taxes –
Distributions
for more information
.
Dividend Investment Plan.
The Fund, in connection with its Dividend Investment Plan (the Plan), issues Common
Shares, as needed, to satisfy the Plan requirements. Pursuant to the Plan, unless a Common Stockholder elects
otherwise, all cash dividends, capital gains distributions, and other distributions are automatically reinvested in
additional Common Shares.
Additional information about the Plan can be found in the
Dividend Investment Plan and
Stock Repurchase Program
section.
Stock Repurchase Program.
The Fund
may pay distributions to Common Stockholders that are
,
in whole or in part,
attributable to distributions received by the Fund from its underlying portfolio investments (Portfolio Company
Distributions). The Fund,
under its stock repurchase program, currently intends to make open market purchases of its
Common Shares from time to time when the Common Shares are trading at a discount to
NAV per share
, in an
amount approximately sufficient to offset the growth in the number of shares of Common Shares issued as a result
of
Common Stockholders reinvesting Fund distributions,
but only with respect to any portion of the Fund distribution
constituting Portfolio Company Distributions
less Fund expenses.
Additional information about the Fund’s stock
repurchase program can be found in the
Dividend Investment Plan and Stock Repurchase Program
section.
Voting Provisions.
The Fund’s charter provides that the liquidation or dissolution of the Fund, any merger,
consolidation, share exchange or sale or exchange of all or substantially all of the assets of the Fund that requires
the approval of the Fund’s stockholders under the Maryland General Corporation Law (“MGCL”), certain transactions
between the Fund and any person or group of persons acting together and any person controlling, controlled by or
under common control with any such person or member of such group, that may exercise or direct the exercise of
10% or more of the voting power of the Fund (an “Interested Transaction”), any amendment to the Fund’s charter that
would convert the Fund from a closed-end investment company to an open end investment company or otherwise
make the Fund’s Common Shares a redeemable security and any amendment to certain provisions of the Fund’s
charter, including the provisions relating to the Fund’s business as a closed-end management investment company
and the number, qualifications, classification, election and removal of directors, and the vote required to amend such
provisions, requires the approval of the stockholders entitled to cast at least 80% of the votes entitled to be cast on
such matter. If such a proposal is approved by at least two-thirds of the Fund’s Continuing Directors (in addition to
approval by the full Board of Directors), however, such proposal may be approved by the stockholders entitled to cast
a majority of the votes entitled to be cast on such matter, provided, that, with respect to any Interested Transaction,
Prospectus 2024
6
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Summary of the Fund
(continued)
no stockholder approval is required if such transaction is approved by at least two-thirds of the Fund’s Continuing
Directors, unless the MGCL requires such approval. The “Continuing Directors” are defined in the Fund’s charter as
(i) the directors identified in the Fund’s charter, (ii) those directors whose nomination for election by the stockholders
or whose election by the directors to fill vacancies is approved by a majority of the directors identified in the Fund’s
charter and (iii) any successor directors whose nomination for election by the stockholders or whose election by the
directors to fill vacancies is approved by a majority of the Continuing Directors then in office. This provision could
make it more difficult for certain extraordinary transactions to be approved if they are opposed by the Continuing
Directors, and discourage proxy contests for control of the Fund’s Board by persons wishing to cause such
transactions to take place. The Fund’s charter and Bylaws provide that the Board of Directors will have the exclusive
power to adopt, alter or repeal any provision of the Fund’s Bylaws or to make new Bylaws.
The voting provisions described above could have the effect of depriving stockholders of an opportunity to sell their
Common Shares at a premium over prevailing market prices by discouraging a third party from seeking to obtain
control of the Fund in a tender offer or similar transaction. In the view of the Fund’s Board, however, these provisions
offer several possible advantages, including: (1) requiring persons seeking control of the Fund to negotiate with its
management regarding the price to be paid for the amount of Common Shares required to obtain control; (2)
promoting continuity and stability; and (3) enhancing the Fund’s ability to pursue long-term strategies that are
consistent with its investment objectives and management policies. The Board has determined that the voting
requirements under the Fund’s charter described above, which are generally greater than the minimum requirements
under the 1940 Act and Maryland law, are in the best interests of the Fund’s stockholders generally.
Principal
Risks.
Investing in Common Shares involves
risks.
Additional information about these and other
risks of
investing in the Fund can be found below within the
More Information About the Fund - Principal Risks
section of this
Prospectus. You should carefully consider these risks together with all of the other information contained in this
Prospectus before making a decision to purchase Common Shares.
Active Management Risk.
Due to its active management, the Fund could underperform its benchmark index and/or
other funds with similar investment objectives and/or strategies.
Counterparty Risk.
A counterparty to a transaction in a financial instrument held by the Fund may become insolvent
or otherwise fail to perform its obligations, including making payments to the Fund, due to financial difficulties. The
Fund may obtain no or limited recovery in a bankruptcy or other reorganizational proceedings, and any recovery may
be significantly delayed.
Credit Risk.
Credit risk is the risk that the value of debt instruments may decline if the issuer thereof defaults or
otherwise becomes unable or unwilling, or is perceived to be unable or unwilling, to honor its financial obligations,
such as making payments to the Fund when due.
Derivatives Risk.
Use of derivatives is a highly specialized activity that can involve investment techniques, risks, and
tax planning different from those associated with more traditional investment instruments. Investing in derivatives
may result in significant losses.
Foreign Securities Risk.
Investments in or exposure to securities of foreign companies may involve heightened risks
relative to investments in or exposure to securities of U.S. companies. For example, foreign markets can be
extremely volatile. Foreign securities may also be less liquid, making them more difficult to trade, than securities of
U.S. companies so that the Fund may, at times, be unable to sell foreign securities at desirable times or prices.
Interest Rate Risk.
A rise in interest rates may result in a price decline of fixed-income instruments held by the Fund,
negatively impacting its performance and NAV. Falling rates may result in the fund investing in lower yielding debt
instruments, potentially lowering the Fund’s income and yield.
Issuer Risk.
An issuer in which the Fund invests or to which it has exposure may perform poorly or below
expectations, and the value of its securities may therefore decline, which may negatively affect the Fund’s
performance. These risks may be heighted for small- and mid-cap companies.
Market Risk.
The market value of the Common Shares may decrease from the market price per share you paid for
Common Shares, and if you sell your shares at such prices, you could lose money.
7
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Summary of the Fund
(continued)
Market Trading Discount Risk.
The Fund’s Common Shares can and have traded at a discount to the Fund’s NAV.
The shares of closed-end management investment companies frequently trade at a discount from their NAV. This is a
risk separate and distinct from the risk that the Fund’s NAV may decrease.
Non-Diversified Fund Risk.
The Fund is non-diversified, which generally means that it may invest a greater percentage
of its total assets in the securities of fewer issuers than a “diversified” fund. This increases the risk that a change in
the value of any one investment held by the Fund could affect the overall value of the Fund more than it would affect
that of a diversified fund holding a greater number of investments.
Offering Risk.
To the extent that Common Shares do not trade at a sufficient premium, the Fund may be unable to
issue additional Common Shares and may incur costs associated with maintaining an “at the market” program
without the potential benefits.
Secondary Market for the Common Shares Risk.
Issuance of Common Shares through this Prospectus offering may
have an adverse effect on the secondary market for the Common Shares. The increase in the amount of the Fund’s
outstanding Common Shares resulting from this offering may put downward pressure on the market price for
Common Shares.
Sector Risk.
The Fund may have a significant portion of its assets invested in securities of companies conducting
business in a related group of industries within one or more economic sectors. Companies in the same sector may
be similarly affected by economic, regulatory, political or market events or conditions, which may make the Fund
vulnerable to unfavorable developments in that group of industries or economic sector.
Sector Risk - Communication Services Sector Risk and Information Technology Sector Risk.
The Fund has invested
significantly in securities of companies operating in the communication services sector and the information
technology sector. The products of companies operating in these sectors may be subject to severe competition and
rapid obsolescence, and their stocks may be subject to greater price fluctuations. Companies in these sectors may
be similarly affected by economic, regulatory, political or market events or conditions, which may make the Fund
vulnerable to unfavorable developments in these sectors.
Semiconductor and Semiconductor Equipment Industry Risk.
The Fund has invested significantly in securities of
companies operating in the semiconductor and semiconductor equipment industry, which subjects the Fund to the
risks of investments in the industry, including that stock prices of companies in the industry have been and will likely
continue to be volatile relative to the overall market.
Prospectus 2024
8
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Financial Highlights and Investment Performance
The Fund’s Financial Highlights for the ten most recent fiscal years have been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers
LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the Fund’s financial statements, is
included in the Fund’s annual report, which is available upon request. The auditor’s report can be found in the SAI
under
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
.
The financial highlights for the period ended June
30, 2024 are unaudited.
The Financial Highlights should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and
notes contained in the Fund’s 2023 annual report and June 30, 2024 semi-annual report, which may be obtained
from the Transfer Agent as provided in this Prospectus.
Per share operating performance data is designed to allow you to trace the operating performance, on a per Common
Share basis, from the beginning net asset value to the ending net asset value, so that you can understand what
effect the individual items have on your investment, assuming it was held throughout the period. Generally, the per
share amounts are derived by converting the actual dollar amounts incurred for each item, as disclosed in the
financial statements, to their equivalent per Common Share amounts, using average Common Shares outstanding
during the period.
Total return measures the Fund’s performance assuming that
investors purchased Fund shares at
market price or
net asset value as of the beginning of the period,
reinvested all their
distributions
and then sold
their
shares at the
closing market price or net asset value
on the last day of the period. The computations do not reflect
taxes or
any
sales commissions
investors may incur on distributions or on the sale of
Fund
shares
.
Total returns and portfolio
turnover are not annualized for periods of less than one year
.
The ratios of expenses and net investment income are
annualized for periods of less than one year.
The portfolio turnover rate is calculated without regard to purchase and sales transactions of short-term instruments
and certain derivatives, if any. If such transactions were included,
a
Fund’s portfolio turnover
rate
may be higher.
Prospectus 2024
10
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Financial Highlights and Investment Performance
(continued)
Six Months Ended June 30, 2024 (Unaudited) |
Year ended December 31, 2023 |
Year ended December 31, 2022 | |
Per share data |
|||
Net asset value, beginning of period |
$29.05 |
$22.63 |
$35.42 |
Income from investment operations: |
|||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.03 ) |
(0.05 ) |
(0.08 ) |
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) |
4.52 |
8.58 |
(9.78 ) |
Total from investment operations |
4.49 |
8.53 |
(9.86 ) |
Less distributions to Stockholders from: |
|||
Net investment income |
— |
— |
— |
Net realized gains |
(0.93 ) |
(2.12 ) |
(2.93 ) |
Total distributions to Stockholders |
(0.93 ) |
(2.12 ) |
(2.93 ) |
(Dilution) Anti-dilution in net asset value from share purchases (via dividend reinvestment program) (a) |
(0.00 ) (b) |
0.01 |
(0.00 ) (b) |
Anti-dilution in net asset value from share buy-backs (via stock repurchase program) (a) |
— |
— |
— |
Net asset value, end of period |
$32.61 |
$29.05 |
$22.63 |
Market price, end of period |
$33.29 |
$31.60 |
$23.23 |
Total return |
|||
Based upon net asset value |
15.65 % |
38.89 % |
(28.74 %) |
Based upon market price |
8.54 % |
47.19 % |
(29.99 %) |
Ratios to average net assets |
|||
Total gross expenses (c) |
1.13 % |
1.13 % |
1.13 % |
Net investment income (loss) |
(.09 %) |
(0.19 %) |
(0.29 %) |
Supplemental data |
|||
Net assets, end of period (in thousands): |
$539,852 |
$478,924 |
$366,036 |
Portfolio turnover |
21 % |
25 % |
9 % |
Notes to Financial Highlights
(a)
Prior to the period ended December 31, 2022, per share amounts were only presented if the net dilution/anti-dilution impact was material relative
(b)
Rounds to zero.
(c)
In addition to the fees and expenses that the Fund bears directly, the Fund indirectly bears a pro
rata
share of the fees and expenses of anyother funds in which it invests. Such indirect expenses are not included in the Fund’s reported expense ratios.
11
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Financial Highlights and Investment Performance
(continued)
Year ended December 31, 2021 |
Year ended December 31, 2020 |
Year ended December 31, 2019 |
Year ended December 31, 2018 |
Year ended December 31, 2017 |
Year ended December 31, 2016 |
Year ended December 31, 2015 |
Year ended December 31, 2014 |
$27.86 |
$23.43 |
$16.96 |
$20.83 |
$17.78 |
$17.29 |
$17.69 |
$16.18 |
(0.06 ) |
0.11 |
(0.02 ) |
(0.01 ) |
(0.06 ) |
(0.05 ) |
(0.04 ) |
(0.07 ) |
10.76 |
6.17 |
8.34 |
(1.36 ) |
5.74 |
2.39 |
1.49 |
3.43 |
10.70 |
6.28 |
8.32 |
(1.37 ) |
5.68 |
2.34 |
1.45 |
3.36 |
— |
(0.11 ) |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
(3.14 ) |
(1.74 ) |
(1.85 ) |
(2.50 ) |
(2.63 ) |
(1.85 ) |
(1.85 ) |
(1.85 ) |
(3.14 ) |
(1.85 ) |
(1.85 ) |
(2.50 ) |
(2.63 ) |
(1.85 ) |
(1.85 ) |
(1.85 ) |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
— |
$35.42 |
$27.86 |
$23.43 |
$16.96 |
$20.83 |
$17.78 |
$17.29 |
$17.69 |
$37.01 |
$27.24 |
$23.55 |
$16.81 |
$22.25 |
$18.74 |
$17.93 |
$18.93 |
39.38 % |
29.17 % |
51.04 % |
(7.77 %) |
32.72 % |
15.29 % |
8.40 % |
22.32 % |
48.96 % |
25.65 % |
53.17 % |
(14.42 %) |
34.51 % |
17.18 % |
5.05 % |
47.17 % |
1.13 % |
1.15 % |
1.15 % |
1.15 % |
1.16 % |
1.17 % |
1.17 % |
1.17 % |
(0.18 %) |
0.50 % |
(0.08 %) |
(0.05 %) |
(0.28 %) |
(0.33 %) |
(0.24 %) |
(0.41 %) |
$564,220 |
$443,114 |
$372,063 |
$265,315 |
$320,472 |
$273,226 |
$265,426 |
$271,300 |
27 % |
32 % |
43 % |
34 % |
47 % |
61 % |
61 % |
60 % |
Prospectus 2024
12
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Financial Highlights and Investment Performance
(continued)
Outstanding Fund Securities at
September 30
, 2024 (Unaudited)
Title of Class |
Amount Authorized |
Amount Held by Fund or for its Account |
Amount Outstanding Exclusive of Amount Held by Fund |
Common Stock, $0.01 par value per share |
1,000,000,000 shares |
0 shares |
16,583,140 shares |
.
13
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Financial Highlights and Investment Performance
(continued)
Share Price Data (Unaudited)
The Fund’s Common Shares trade primarily on the Exchange. The following table shows the high and low closing prices
of the Fund’s Common Shares on the Exchange for each calendar quarter since the beginning of 2022, as well as the
net asset values and the range of the percentage (discounts)/premiums to net asset value per share that correspond
to such prices.
The Fund’s Common Shares have historically fluctuated between trading in the market at a discount to net asset value
and at a premium to net asset value. The closing market price, net asset value and percentage (discount)/premium to
net asset value per Common Share on
June 30
, 2024 were $
33.29
, $
32.61
, and
2.09
%, respectively.
Prospectus 2024
14
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Capitalization
In accordance with the terms of the Distribution Agreement, the Fund may offer and sell up to 8,000,000 Common
Shares from time to time, through the Distributor as the Fund’s agent for the offer and sale of Common Shares under
this Prospectus.
The price per share of any Common Share sold hereunder may be greater or less than the price of
$33.44 (the last reported sale price for the Fund’s Common Shares on the NYSE as of June 18, 2024) assumed
herein, depending on the market price of the Common Shares at the time of such sale. Furthermore, there is no
guarantee that the Fund will sell all of the Common Shares available for sale hereunder or that there will be any sales
of Common Shares hereunder. To the extent that the market price per Common Share, less any distributing
commission or discount, is less than the then current NAV per Common Share from time to time, the Fund will
instruct the Distributor not to make any sales at such time.
The following table sets forth the Fund’s capitalization (1) on a historical basis as of
June 30
, 2024 (unaudited); and
(2) on a pro forma basis as adjusted to reflect the assumed sale of 8,000,000 Common Shares at $32.00 per share
(the last reported sale price of the Fund’s Common Shares on NYSE on
June 30
, 2024) in an offering under this
Prospectus, after deducting the assumed commission of 1.00% (representing a maximum commission to the
Distributor of 1.00% of the gross proceeds of the sale of Fund Common Shares, out of which the Distributor will
compensate the Sub-Placement Agent at a rate of up to 0.80% of the gross sales proceeds of the sale of Common
Shares sold by the Sub-Placement Agent) and assuming investment of net proceeds. Actual sales, if any, of Common
Shares under this Prospectus may be greater or less than $32.00 per share, depending on the market price of
Common Shares at the time of any such sale.
15
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Use of Proceeds
Use of Proceeds.
The Fund intends to invest the net proceeds of an offering of Common Shares in accordance with
its investment objective and policies as appropriate investment opportunities are identified. It is currently anticipated
that the Fund will be able to invest substantially all of the net proceeds of an offering of Common Shares in
accordance with its investment objective and policies typically within 30 days after receipt by the Fund of cash
representing the net proceeds from the sale of Common Shares under this Prospectus, depending on market
conditions and the availability of appropriate securities. Pending investment, the proceeds may be held in short-term
securities, including, but not limited to, obligations of the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities (U.S.
Government Securities), highly rated money market instruments or mutual funds that invest in such instruments. As a
result of this short-term investment of the proceeds, a lower Fund return may be realized.
Prospectus 2024
16
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Plan of Distribution of Common Shares
The Fund has entered into the Distribution Agreement with ALPS Distributors, Inc., pursuant to which the Fund may
offer and sell up to 8,000,000 Common Shares, from time to time, through the Distributor, in transactions that are
deemed to be “at the market” as defined in Rule 415 under the 1933 Act.
There is no guarantee that there will be
any sales of Common Shares pursuant to this Prospectus.
The
price per share of any Common Share sold hereunder
may be greater or less than the price assumed herein, depending on the market price of the Common Shares at the
time of such sale. Furthermore, there is no guarantee that the Fund will sell all of the Common Shares available for
sale hereunder or that there will be any sales of Common Shares hereunder. The
minimum price at which Common
Shares may be sold will not be less than an amount at least equal to the then current NAV per Common Share plus
the per Common Share amount of the commission to be paid to the Distributor (Minimum Price). The Fund along with
the Distributor and the Sub-Placement Agent will not authorize sales of Common Shares if the price per share of the
Common Shares is less than the Minimum Price. The Fund may elect not to authorize sales of Common Shares on a
particular day even if the price per share of the Common Shares is equal to or greater than the Minimum Price or may
only authorize a fixed number of Common Shares to be sold on any particular day. The Fund has full discretion
regarding whether sales of Common Shares will be authorized on a particular day and, if so, in what amounts.
As a
result, the actual net proceeds received by the Fund may be less than the amount of net proceeds reflected in the
pro forma column of the Capitalization table shown above.
The Distributor may enter into sub-placement agent agreements with one or more selected dealers. The Distributor
has entered into the Sub-Placement Agent Agreement
with
UBS
Securities LLC
, as Sub-Placement Agent, relating to
the Common Shares offered by this Prospectus. In accordance with the terms of the Sub-Placement Agent
Agreement, the Fund may offer and sell Common Shares from time to time to be distributed by the Distributor
through the Sub-Placement Agent as sub-placement agent for the offer and sale of Common Shares.
The Distributor will instruct the Sub-Placement Agent as to the amount of Common Shares to be sold by the Sub-Placement
Agent and the Minimum Price for any day on which Common Shares may be sold. The Distributor or the
Fund may suspend the
offering
upon proper notice and subject to other conditions.
The Distributor (or the Sub-Placement Agent) will provide written confirmation to the Fund not later than the opening
of the trading day on the NYSE following any trading day on which Common Shares are sold under the Distribution
Agreement. Each confirmation will include the number of Common Shares sold on the preceding day, the net
proceeds to the Fund and the compensation payable by the Fund to the Distributor in connection with the sales.
The Fund will compensate the Distributor with respect to sales of Common Shares at a commission rate of 1.00% of
the gross proceeds of the sale of Common Shares. Out of this commission, the Distributor will compensate the Sub-Placement
Agent at a rate of up to 0.80% of the gross sales proceeds of the sale of the Common Shares sold by the
Sub-Placement Agent. There is no guarantee that there will be any sales of Common Shares pursuant to this
Prospectus.
Settlement for sales of Common Shares will occur on the first business day following the date on which such sales
are made.
There is no arrangement for funds to be deposited in escrow, trust or similar arrangement. In connection
with the sale of Common Shares on behalf of the Fund, the Distributor may be deemed to be an “underwriter” within
the meaning of the 1933 Act, and the compensation paid to the Distributor may be deemed to be underwriting
commissions or discounts.
The Fund has agreed to provide indemnification and contribution to the Distributor against certain civil liabilities,
including liabilities under the 1933 Act. The Distributor has agreed to provide indemnification to the Sub-Placement
Agent against certain civil liabilities, including liabilities under the 1933 Act. The offering of Common Shares
pursuant to the Distribution Agreement will terminate upon the earlier of (1) the issuance and sale of all Common
Shares subject to the Distribution Agreement or (2) the termination of the Distribution Agreement. The Distribution
Agreement may be terminated by the Fund or the Distributor at any time by giving 60 days’ notice to the other party.
The Common Shares may not be sold through the Distributor or the Sub-Placement Agent without delivery or deemed
delivery of this Prospectus describing the method and terms of the offering of the Common Shares. The Sub-Placement
Agent, its affiliates or their respective employees hold or may hold in the future, directly or indirectly,
investment interests in the Fund. The interests held by the Sub-Placement Agent, its affiliates or their respective
employees are not attributable to, and no investment discretion is held by, the Sub-Placement Agent, its affiliates or
17
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Plan of Distribution of Common Shares
(continued)
their respective affiliates. The principal business address of the Distributor is ALPS Distributors, Inc., 1290
Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203. The principal business address of the Sub-Placement Agent is
1285
Avenue Of The Americas
,
New
York
,
NY
10019
.
Prospectus 2024
18
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
The Fund
The Fund is a Maryland corporation formed in 2009. It is registered under the 1940 Act, as a non-diversified
management investment company of the closed-end type.
Investment Objective and Policies
The Fund seeks growth of capital and current income.
The Fund’s investment objective is not a fundamental policy
and may be changed by the Fund’s Board of Directors without stockholder approval.
Because any investment involves
risk, there is no assurance the Fund’s investment objective will be achieved.
Under normal market conditions, the Fund invests at least 80% of its Managed Assets in a portfolio of equity
securities of technology and technology-related companies that the Investment Manager believes offer attractive
opportunities for capital appreciation. Under normal market conditions, the Fund’s investment program consists
primarily of (i) investing in a portfolio of
common stocks
of technology and technology-related companies that seeks
to exceed the total return, before fees and expenses, of the S&P North American Technology Sector Index
(described
further below)
and (ii) writing call options on the Nasdaq 100 Index
®
, an unmanaged index
of the 100 largest
non-financial
domestic and international companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market
based on market capitalization
, or
an
exchange-traded fund equivalent (the Nasdaq 100) on a month-to-month basis, with an aggregate notional amount
typically ranging from 0%-90% of the underlying value of the Fund’s holdings of common stock (the Rules-based
Option Strategy, as further described below). The Fund expects to generate current income from premiums received
from writing call options on the Nasdaq 100.
The Fund concentrates its investments in technology and technology-related
stocks. The Fund may invest in companies of any size, including small-, mid-, and large-cap companies, as
well as in foreign companies.
Technology and technology-related companies in which the Fund invests are companies operating in the information
technology and communications services sectors, as well as other related industries, applying a global industry
classification standard, as it may be amended from time to time, to determine industry/sector classifications. These
related industry companies may also include companies operating in the consumer discretionary and healthcare
sectors, particularly those that are principally engaged in offering or developing products, processes, or services that
benefit significantly from technological advances and improvements. By way of example, technology and technology-related
companies may include semiconductor, semiconductor equipment, technology hardware, storage and
peripherals, software, communication equipment and services, electronic equipment and instruments, internet
services and infrastructure, media, health care equipment and supplies, and medical technology companies. The
Fund tends to focus its technology and technology-related investments on companies in the information technology
sector and/or the semiconductor and semiconductor equipment industry.
In determining the level (i.e., 0% to 90%) of call options to be written on the Nasdaq 100, the Investment Manager’s
Rules-based Option Strategy is based on the CBOE Nasdaq-100 Volatility Index
SM
(the VXN Index). The VXN Index
measures the market’s expectation of 30-day volatility implicit in the prices of near-term Nasdaq 100 Index options.
The VXN Index, which is quoted in percentage points (e.g., 19.36), is a leading barometer of investor sentiment and
market volatility relating to the Nasdaq 100 Index. In general, the Investment Manager intends to write more call
options when market volatility, as represented by the VXN Index, is high (and premiums received for writing the option
are high) and write fewer call options when market volatility, as represented by the VXN Index, is low (and premiums
for writing the option are low).
The Fund’s Rules-based Option Strategy with respect to writing call options is as follows:
19
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
At least 33, but less than 34 |
Increase up to 90% |
At least 34, but less than 55 |
90% |
At 55 or greater |
0% to 90% |
In addition to the Rules-based Option Strategy, the Fund may write additional calls with aggregate notional amounts of
up to 25% of the value of the Fund’s holdings in common stock (to a maximum of 90% when aggregated with the call
options written pursuant to the Rules-based Option Strategy) when the Investment Manager believes call premiums
are attractive relative to the risk of the price of the Nasdaq 100. The Fund may also close (or buy back) a written call
option if the Investment Manager believes that a substantial amount of the premium (typically, 70% or more) to be
received by the Fund has been captured before exercise, potentially reducing the call position to 0% of total equity
until additional calls are written. The Fund may
,
subject to the above-mentioned aggregate notional amount of 90% of
the underlying value of the Fund’s holdings of common stock,
also buy or write other call and put options on
securities, indices, ETFs and market baskets of securities to generate additional income or return or to provide the
portfolio with downside protection.
The S&P North American Technology Sector Index is a benchmark that represents U.S. securities classified under the
GICS
®
information technology sector as well as the internet and direct marketing retail, interactive home
entertainment, and interactive media & services sub-industries.
The Fund’s investment policy of investing at least 80% of its Managed Assets in equity securities of technology and
technology-related companies and its policy with respect to the use of the Rules-based Option Strategy on a month-to-month
basis may be changed by the Board without stockholder approval only with 60 days’ prior written notice to
stockholders.
The Fund is a non-diversified fund. A non-diversified fund is permitted to invest a greater percentage of its total
assets in fewer issuers than a diversified fund. This policy may not be changed without a stockholder vote. The Fund
has a fundamental policy of investing at least 25% of
the value of its Managed Assets in
technology and technology-related
stocks. This policy may not be changed without a stockholder vote. The Fund may also invest: up to 15% of its
Managed Assets in illiquid securities (i.e., securities that at the time of purchase are not readily marketable); up to
20% of its Managed Assets in debt securities (including convertible and non-convertible debt securities), such as
debt securities issued by technology and technology-related companies and obligations of the U.S. Government, its
agencies and instrumentalities, and government-sponsored enterprises, as well as below-investment grade securities
(i.e., high-yield or junk bonds); and up to 25% of its Managed Assets in equity securities of companies organized
outside of the United States. The Fund may hold foreign securities of issuers located or doing substantial business in
emerging markets. Each of these policies may be changed by the Board without stockholder approval.
Please refer to the
section of the Fund’s most recent annual report on Form N-CSR entitled “Fund Investment Objective, Strategies, Policies and Principal Risks,” and the same
section of the Fund’s most recent semi-annual report on Form N-CSR, each of which is incorporated by reference herein.
Principal Risks
An investment in the Fund involves risks.
The
principal risks of investing in the Fund are provided below.
There is no
assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective and you may lose money
. The value of the Fund’s
holdings may decline, and the Fund’s net asset value (NAV) and share price may go down. An investment in the Fund
is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency. The significance of any specific risk to an investment in the Fund will vary over time depending
on the composition of the Fund's portfolio, market conditions, and other factors. You should read all of the risk
information below carefully, because any one or more of these risks may result in losses to the Fund.
Please refer to the
section of the Fund’s most recent annual report on Form N-CSR entitled “Fund Investment Objective, Strategies, Policies and Principal Risks,” and the same
section of the Fund’s most recent semi-annual report on Form N-CSR, each of which is incorporated by reference herein.
Prospectus 2024
20
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
Active Management Risk.
The Fund is actively managed and its performance therefore will reflect, in part, the ability
of the portfolio managers to make investment decisions that seek to achieve the Fund’s investment objective. Due to
its active management, the Fund could underperform its benchmark index and/or other funds with similar investment
objectives and/or strategies.
Counterparty Risk.
The risk exists that a counterparty to a transaction in a financial instrument held by the Fund or
by a special purpose or structured vehicle in which the Fund invests may become insolvent or otherwise fail to
perform its obligations, including making payments to the Fund, due to financial difficulties. The Fund may obtain no
or limited recovery in a bankruptcy or other reorganizational proceedings, and any recovery may be significantly
delayed. Transactions that the Fund enters into may involve counterparties in the financials sector and, as a result,
events affecting the financials sector may cause the Fund’s NAV to fluctuate.
Credit Risk.
Credit risk is the risk that the value of debt instruments may decline if the issuer thereof defaults or
otherwise becomes unable or unwilling, or is perceived to be unable or unwilling, to honor its financial obligations,
such as making payments to the Fund when due. Various factors could affect the actual or perceived willingness or
ability of the issuer to make timely interest or principal payments, including changes in the financial condition of the
issuer or in general economic conditions. Credit rating agencies, such as S&P Global Ratings, Moody’s Ratings, Fitch,
DBRS and KBRA, assign credit ratings to certain debt instruments to indicate their credit risk. A rating downgrade by
such agencies can negatively impact the value of such instruments. Lower-rated or unrated instruments held by the
Fund may present increased credit risk as compared to higher-rated instruments. Non-investment grade debt
instruments may be subject to greater price fluctuations and are more likely to experience a default than investment
grade debt instruments and therefore may expose the Fund to increased credit risk. If the Fund purchases unrated
instruments, or if the ratings of instruments held by the Fund are lowered after purchase, the Fund will depend on
analysis of credit risk more heavily than usual.
Derivatives Risk.
Derivatives may involve significant risks. Derivatives are financial instruments, traded on an
exchange or in the over-the-counter (OTC) markets, with a value in relation to, or derived from, the value of an
underlying asset(s) (such as a security, commodity or currency) or other reference, such as an index, rate or other
economic indicator (each an underlying reference). Derivatives may include those that are privately placed or
otherwise exempt from SEC registration, including certain Rule 144A eligible securities. Derivatives could result in
Fund losses if the underlying reference does not perform as anticipated. Use of derivatives is a highly specialized
activity that can involve investment techniques, risks, and tax planning different from those associated with more
traditional investment instruments. The Fund’s derivatives strategy may not be successful and use of certain
derivatives could result in substantial, potentially unlimited, losses to the Fund regardless of the Fund’s actual
investment. A relatively small movement in the price, rate or other economic indicator associated with the underlying
reference may result in substantial losses for the Fund. Derivatives may be more volatile than other types of
investments. Derivatives can increase the Fund’s risk exposure to underlying references and their attendant risks,
including the risk of an adverse credit event associated with the underlying reference (credit risk), the risk of an
adverse movement in the value, price or rate of the underlying reference (market risk), the risk of an adverse
movement in the value of underlying currencies (foreign currency risk) and the risk of an adverse movement in
underlying interest rates (interest rate risk). Derivatives may expose the Fund to additional risks, including the risk of
loss due to a derivative position that is imperfectly correlated with the underlying reference it is intended to hedge or
replicate (correlation risk), the risk that a counterparty will fail to perform as agreed (counterparty risk), the risk that
a hedging strategy may fail to mitigate losses, and may offset gains (hedging risk), the risk that the return on an
investment may not keep pace with inflation (inflation risk), the risk that losses may be greater than the amount
invested (leverage risk), the risk that the Fund may be unable to sell an investment at an advantageous time or price
(liquidity risk), the risk that the investment may be difficult to value (pricing risk), and the risk that the price or value
of the investment fluctuates significantly over short periods of time (volatility risk). The value of derivatives may be
influenced by a variety of factors, including national and international political and economic developments. Potential
changes to the regulation of the derivatives markets may make derivatives more costly, may limit the market for
derivatives, or may otherwise adversely affect the value or performance of derivatives.
21
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
Derivatives Risk – Options Risk.
Options are derivatives that give the purchaser the option to buy (call) or sell (put)
an underlying reference from or to a counterparty at a specified price (the strike price) on or before an expiration
date. The Fund may purchase or write (i.e., sell) put and call options on an underlying reference it is otherwise
permitted to invest in. When writing options, the Fund is exposed to the risk that it may be required to buy or sell the
underlying reference at a disadvantageous price on or before the expiration date. If the Fund sells a put option, the
Fund may be required to buy the underlying reference at a strike price that is above market price, resulting in a loss.
If the Fund sells a call option, the Fund may be required to sell the underlying reference at a strike price that is below
market price, resulting in a loss. If the Fund sells a call option that is not covered (it does not own the underlying
reference), the Fund's losses are potentially unlimited. Options may involve economic leverage, which could result in
greater volatility in price movement. Options may be traded on a securities exchange or in the over-the-counter
market. At or prior to maturity of an options contract, the Fund may enter into an offsetting contract and may incur a
loss to the extent there has been adverse movement in options prices. Options can increase the Fund’s risk
exposure to underlying references and their attendant risks
,
such as credit risk, market risk, foreign currency risk and
interest rate risk, while
potentially
exposing the Fund to correlation risk, counterparty risk, hedging risk, inflation risk,
leverage risk, liquidity risk, pricing risk and volatility risk
Foreign Securities Risk.
Investments in or exposure to securities of foreign companies may involve heightened risks
relative to investments in or exposure to securities of U.S. companies. For example, foreign markets can be
extremely volatile. Foreign securities may also be less liquid, making them more difficult to trade, than securities of
U.S. companies so that the Fund may, at times, be unable to sell foreign securities at desirable times or prices.
Brokerage commissions, custodial costs and other fees are also generally higher for foreign securities. The Fund may
have limited or no legal recourse in the event of default with respect to certain foreign securities, including those
issued by foreign governments. In addition, foreign governments may impose withholding or other taxes on the Fund’s
income, capital gains or proceeds from the disposition of foreign securities, which could reduce the Fund’s return on
such securities. In some cases, such withholding or other taxes could potentially be confiscatory. Other risks include:
possible delays in the settlement of transactions or in the payment of income; generally less publicly available
information about foreign companies; the impact of economic, political, social, diplomatic or other conditions or
events (including, for example, military confrontations and actions, war, other conflicts, terrorism and disease/virus
outbreaks and epidemics), possible seizure, expropriation or nationalization of a company or its assets or the assets
of a particular investor or category of investors; accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards that may be
less comprehensive and stringent than those applicable to domestic companies; the imposition of economic and
other sanctions against a particular foreign country, its nationals or industries or businesses within the country; and
the generally less stringent standard of care to which local agents may be held in the local markets. In addition, it
may be difficult to obtain reliable information about the securities and business operations of certain foreign issuers.
Governments or trade groups may compel local agents to hold securities in designated depositories that are not
subject to independent evaluation. The less developed a country’s securities market is, the greater the level of risks.
Economic sanctions may be, and have been, imposed against certain countries, organizations, companies, entities
and/or individuals. Economic sanctions and other similar governmental actions could, among other things, effectively
restrict or eliminate the Fund’s ability to purchase or sell securities, and thus may make the Fund’s investments in
such securities less liquid or more difficult to value. In addition, as a result of economic sanctions, the Fund may be
forced to sell or otherwise dispose of investments at inopportune times or prices, which could result in losses to the
Fund and increased transaction costs. These conditions may be in place for a substantial period of time and enacted
with limited advance notice to the Fund. The risks posed by sanctions against a particular foreign country, its
nationals or industries or businesses within the country may be heightened to the extent the Fund invests
significantly in the affected country or region or in issuers from the affected country that depend on global markets.
Additionally, investments in certain countries may subject the Fund to a number of tax rules, the application of which
may be uncertain. Countries may amend or revise their existing tax laws, regulations and/or procedures in the future,
possibly with retroactive effect. Changes in or uncertainties regarding the laws, regulations or procedures of a
country could reduce the after-tax profits of the Fund, directly or indirectly, including by reducing the after-tax profits of
companies located in such countries in which the Fund invests, or result in unexpected tax liabilities for the Fund. The
performance of the Fund may also be negatively affected by fluctuations in a foreign currency's strength or weakness
relative to the U.S. dollar, particularly to the extent the Fund invests a significant percentage of its assets in foreign
Prospectus 2024
22
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
securities or other assets denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries
may fluctuate significantly over short or long periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest
rates, imposition of currency exchange controls and economic or political developments in the U.S. or abroad. The
Fund may also incur currency conversion costs when converting foreign currencies into U.S. dollars and vice versa.
Interest Rate Risk.
Interest rate risk is the risk of losses attributable to changes in interest rates. In general, if
interest rates rise, the values of debt instruments tend to fall, and if interest rates fall, the values of debt
instruments tend to rise. Changes in the value of a debt instrument usually will not affect the amount of income the
Fund receives from it but will generally affect the value of your investment in the Fund. Changes in interest rates may
also affect the liquidity of the Fund’s investments in debt instruments. In general, the longer the maturity or duration
of a debt instrument, the greater its sensitivity to changes in interest rates. For example, a three-year duration means
a bond is expected to decrease in value by 3% if interest rates rise 1% and increase in value by 3% if interest rates
fall 1%. Interest rate declines also may increase prepayments of debt obligations, which, in turn, would increase
prepayment risk (the risk that the Fund will have to reinvest the money received in securities that have lower yields).
The Fund is subject to the risk that the income generated by its investments may not keep pace with inflation.
Actions by governments and central banking authorities can result in increases or decreases in interest rates. Higher
periods of inflation could lead such authorities to raise interest rates. Such actions may negatively affect the value of
debt instruments held by the Fund, resulting in a negative impact on the Fund's performance and NAV. Any interest
rate increases could cause the value of the Fund’s investments in debt instruments to decrease. Rising interest
rates may prompt redemptions from the Fund, which may force the Fund to sell investments at a time when it is not
advantageous to do so, which could result in losses.
Issuer Risk.
An issuer in which the Fund invests or to which it has exposure may perform poorly or below
expectations, and the value of its securities may therefore decline, which may negatively affect the Fund’s
performance. Underperformance of an issuer may be caused by poor management decisions, competitive pressures,
breakthroughs in technology, reliance on suppliers, labor problems or shortages, corporate restructurings, fraudulent
disclosures, natural disasters, military confrontations and actions, war, other conflicts, terrorism, disease/virus
outbreaks, epidemics or other events, conditions and factors which may impair the value of your investment in the
Fund and could result in a greater premium or discount between the market price and the NAV of the Fund's shares
and wider bid/ask spreads than those experienced by other closed-end funds.
■
Small- and Mid-Cap Stock Risk.
Securities of small- and mid-cap companies can, in certain circumstances, have a
higher potential for gains than securities of larger companies but are more likely to have more risk than larger
companies. For example, small- and mid-cap companies may be more vulnerable to market downturns and adverse
business or economic events than larger companies because they may have more limited financial resources and
business operations. Small- and mid-cap companies are also more likely than larger companies to have more
limited product lines and operating histories and to depend on smaller and generally less experienced
management teams. Securities of small- and mid-cap companies may trade less frequently and in smaller volumes
and may be less liquid and fluctuate more sharply in value than securities of larger companies. When the Fund
takes significant positions in small- and mid-cap companies with limited trading volumes, the liquidation of those
positions, particularly in a distressed market, could be prolonged and result in Fund investment losses that would
affect the value of your investment in the Fund. In addition, some small- and mid-cap companies may not be widely
followed by the investment community, which can lower the demand for their stocks.
■
Large-Cap Stock Risk.
Investments in larger, more established companies (larger companies) may involve certain
risks associated with their larger size. For instance, larger companies may be less able to respond quickly to new
competitive challenges, such as changes in consumer tastes or innovation from smaller competitors. Also, larger
companies are sometimes less able to achieve as high growth rates as successful smaller companies, especially
during extended periods of economic expansion.
Market Risk.
The Fund may incur losses due to declines in the value of one or more securities in which it invests.
These declines may be due to factors affecting a particular issuer, or the result of, among other things, political,
regulatory, market, economic or social developments affecting the relevant market(s) more generally. In addition,
turbulence in financial markets and reduced liquidity in equity, credit and/or fixed income markets may negatively
affect many issuers, which could adversely affect the Fund’s ability to price or value hard-to-value assets in thinly
23
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
traded and closed markets and could cause significant redemptions and operational challenges. Global economies
and financial markets are increasingly interconnected, and conditions and events in one country, region or financial
market may adversely impact issuers in a different country, region or financial market. These risks may be magnified
if certain events or developments adversely interrupt the global supply chain; in these and other circumstances, such
risks might affect companies worldwide. As a result, local, regional or global events such as terrorism, war, other
conflicts, natural disasters, disease/virus outbreaks and epidemics or other public health issues, recessions,
depressions or other events – or the potential for such events – could have a significant negative impact on global
economic and market conditions and could result in a greater premium or discount between the market price and the
NAV of the Fund's shares and wider bid/ask spreads than those experienced by other closed-end funds.
Market Trading Discount Risk.
The
Fund
’s
Common
Shares can and have traded at a discount to the
Fund’s
NAV.
The shares of closed-end management investment companies frequently trade at a discount from their NAV. This is a
risk separate and distinct from the risk that the Fund’s NAV may decrease.
Non-Diversified Fund Risk.
The Fund is non-diversified, which generally means that it may invest a greater percentage
of its total assets in the securities of fewer issuers than a “diversified” fund. This increases the risk that a change in
the value of any one investment held by the Fund could affect the overall value of the Fund more than it would affect
that of a diversified fund holding a greater number of investments. Accordingly, the Fund's value will likely be more
volatile than the value of a more diversified fund.
Offering Risk.
The provisions of the 1940 Act generally require that the public offering price of an investment
company’s common shares (less any underwriting commissions and discounts) must equal or exceed the NAV per
share of an investment company’s common stock (calculated within 48 hours of pricing)
, plus any sales commission
charged in connection with the offering
. In the offering described in this Prospectus, the Fund may, subject to market
conditions, raise additional equity capital by issuing new Common Shares from time to time in varying amounts at a
net price at or above the Fund’s NAV per Common Share (calculated within 48 hours of pricing). To the extent that
Fund Common Shares do not trade at a premium, the Fund may be unable to issue additional Common Shares, and
may incur costs associated with maintaining an “at the market” program without the potential benefits. The offering
described in this Prospectus may allow the Fund to pursue additional investment opportunities without the need to
sell existing portfolio investments and will increase the asset size of the Fund and thus cause the Fund’s fixed
expenses to be spread over a larger asset base. However, the issuance may not necessarily result in an increase to
net income for
stockholders
, which depends upon available investment opportunities and other factors. The Fund
cannot predict whether its Common Shares will trade in the future at a premium
to Fund
NAV per Common Share.
Shares of common stock of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount from NAV, which may
increase investors’ risk of loss. In no event will Common Shares be issued at a price below the Fund’s NAV per
Common Share (calculated within 48 hours of pricing) plus any sales commission charged in connection with the
offering. The offering described in this Prospectus entails potential risks to existing common
stockholders
. Although
the issuance of additional Common Shares may facilitate a more active market in the Fund’s Common Shares by
increasing the amount of Common Shares outstanding, the issuance of additional Common Shares may also have an
adverse effect on prices for the Fund’s Common Shares in the secondary market by increasing the supply of
Common Shares available for sale. The issuance of additional Common Shares will dilute the voting power of already
outstanding Common Shares.
Secondary Market for the Common Shares Risk.
The issuance of Common Shares through this Prospectus offering
may have an adverse effect on the secondary market for the Common Shares. The increase in the amount of the
Fund’s outstanding Common Shares resulting from this offering may put downward pressure on the market price for
the Common Shares of the Fund. Common Shares will not be issued pursuant to the offering at any time when
Common Shares are trading at a price lower than a price equal to the Fund’s NAV per Common Share plus the per
Common Share amount of commissions. The Fund also issues Common Shares of the Fund through its Dividend
Investment Plan. See “Dividend Investment Plan.” Common Shares may be issued under the plan at a discount to
the market price for such Common Shares, which may put downward pressure on the market price for Common
Shares of the Fund. When the Common Shares are trading at a premium, the Fund may also issue Common Shares
of the Fund that are sold through transactions effected on the NYSE. The increase in the amount of the Fund’s
outstanding Common Shares resulting from that offering may also put downward pressure on the market price for the
Prospectus 2024
24
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
Common Shares of the Fund. The voting power of current Common Stockholders will be diluted to the extent that
such stockholders do not purchase shares in any future Common Share offerings or do not purchase sufficient
shares to maintain their percentage interest. In addition, if the Investment Manager is unable to invest the proceeds
of such offering as intended, the Fund’s per share distribution may decrease (or may consist of return of capital) and
the Fund may not participate in market advances to the same extent as if such proceeds were fully invested as
planned.
Sector Risk.
At times, the Fund may have a significant portion of its assets invested in securities of companies
conducting business in a related group of industries within one or more economic sectors including the
communication services sector and the
information technology sector. Companies in
these sectors
may be similarly
affected by economic, regulatory, political or market events or conditions, which may make the Fund vulnerable to
unfavorable developments in
these sectors
.
Communication Services Sector and
Information Technology Sector
.
The Fund is vulnerable to the particular risks
that may affect companies in the
communication services sector and the
information technology sector. Companies
in
these sectors
are subject to certain risks, including the risk that new services, equipment or technologies will not
be accepted by consumers and businesses or will become rapidly obsolete. Performance of such companies may be
affected by factors including obtaining and protecting patents (or the failure to do so) and significant competitive
pressures, including aggressive pricing of their products or services, new market entrants, competition for market
share and short product cycles due to an accelerated rate of technological developments. Such competitive
pressures may lead to limited earnings and/or falling profit margins. As a result, the value of their securities may fall
or fail to rise. In addition, many
communication services sector and
information technology sector companies have
limited operating histories and prices of these companies’ securities historically have been more volatile than other
securities, especially over the short term. Some companies in
these sectors
are facing increased government and
regulatory scrutiny and may be subject to adverse government or regulatory action, which could negatively impact the
value of their securities.
Semiconductor and Semiconductor Equipment Industry Risk.
The Fund investment in the semiconductors and
semiconductor equipment industry subjects the Fund to the risks of investments in the industry, including: intense
competition, both domestically and internationally, including competition from subsidized foreign competitors with
lower production costs; wide fluctuations in securities prices due to risks of rapid obsolescence of products and
related technology; economic performance of the customers of semiconductor and related companies; their research
costs and the risks that their products may not prove commercially successful; and thin capitalization and limited
product lines, markets, financial resources or quality management and personnel. Semiconductor design and process
methodologies are subject to rapid technological change requiring large expenditures, potentially requiring financing
that may be difficult or impossible to obtain, for research and development in order to improve product performance
and increase manufacturing yields. These companies rely on a combination of patents, trade secret laws and
contractual provisions to protect their technologies. The process of seeking patent protection can be long and
expensive. The industry is characterized by frequent litigation regarding patent and other intellectual property rights,
which may require such companies to defend against competitors’ assertions of intellectual property infringement or
misappropriation. Some companies are also engaged in other lines of business unrelated to the semiconductor
business, and these companies may experience problems with these lines of business that could adversely affect
their operating results. The international operations of many companies expose them to the risks associated with
instability and changes in economic and political conditions, foreign currency fluctuations, changes in foreign
regulations, tariffs, and trade disputes. Business conditions in this industry can change rapidly from periods of
strong demand to periods of weak demand. Any future downturn in the industry could harm the business and
operating results of these companies. The stock prices of companies in the industry have been and will likely
continue to be volatile relative to the overall market.
Transactions in Derivatives
The Fund may enter into derivative transactions or otherwise have exposure to derivative transactions through
underlying investments. Derivatives are financial contracts whose values are, for example, based on (or “derived”
from) traditional securities (such as a stock or bond), assets (such as a commodity like gold or a foreign currency),
25
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
reference rates (such as the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (commonly known as SOFR)) or market indices (such
as the Standard & Poor’s 500
®
Index). The use of derivatives is a highly specialized activity which involves investment
techniques and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. Derivatives
involve special risks and may result in losses or may limit the Fund’s potential gain from favorable market
movements. Derivative strategies often involve leverage, which may exaggerate a loss, potentially causing the Fund to
lose more money than it would have lost had it invested in the underlying security or other asset directly. The values
of derivatives may move in unexpected ways, especially in unusual market conditions, and may result in increased
volatility in the value of the derivative and/or the Fund’s shares, among other consequences. The use of derivatives
may also increase the amount of taxes payable by
stockholders
holding shares in a taxable account.
See the
Taxation
section in the SAI for more information.
Other risks arise from the Fund’s potential inability to terminate or to sell
derivative positions. A liquid secondary market may not always exist for the Fund’s derivative positions at times when
the Fund might wish to terminate or to sell such positions. Over-the-counter instruments (investments not traded on
an exchange) may be illiquid, and transactions in derivatives traded in the over-the-counter market are subject to the
risk that the other party will not meet its obligations. The use of derivatives also involves the risks of mispricing or
improper valuation and that changes in the value of the derivative may not correlate perfectly with the underlying
security, asset, reference rate or index. The Fund also may not be able to find a suitable derivative transaction
counterparty, and thus may be unable to engage in derivative transactions when it is deemed favorable to do so, or at
all.
The U.S. government and the European Union (and some other jurisdictions) have enacted regulations and similar
requirements that prescribe clearing, margin, reporting and registration requirements for participants in the
derivatives market. These requirements are evolving and their ultimate impact on the Fund remains unclear, but such
impact could include restricting and/or imposing significant costs or other burdens upon the Fund’s participation in
derivatives transactions. Additionally, regulations governing the use of derivatives by registered investment
companies, such as the Fund, require, among other things, that a fund that invests in derivative instruments beyond
a specified limited amount to apply a value-at-risk-based limit to its portfolio and establish a comprehensive
derivatives risk management program. As of the date of this prospectus, the Fund is required to maintain a
comprehensive derivatives risk management program
. For more information on the risks of derivative investments
and strategies, see the SAI.
Management of the Fund
Board of Directors
Stockholders elect the Board that oversees the Fund’s operations. The Board elects officers who are responsible for
day-to-day business decisions based on policies set by the Board. The Board initially approves the Service Provider
Contracts (as defined below), monitors the level and quality of services provided, and evaluates the services provided
annually. A more detailed description of the Fund’s Board and its responsibilities appears in the SAI.
Primary Service Providers
The Fund enters into contractual arrangements (Service Provider Contracts) with various service providers, including,
among others, the Investment Manager, the
Distributor, the
Transfer Agent and the Fund’s custodian. The Fund’s
Service Provider Contracts are solely among the parties thereto. Stockholders are not parties to, or intended to be
third-party beneficiaries of, any Service Provider Contracts. Further, this prospectus, the SAI and any Service Provider
Contracts are not intended to give rise to any agreement, duty, special relationship or other obligation between the
Fund and any investor, or give rise to any contractual, tort or other rights in any individual stockholder, group of
stockholders or other person, including any right to assert a fiduciary or other duty, enforce the Service Provider
Contracts against the parties or to seek any remedy thereunder, either directly or on behalf of the Fund. Nothing in
the previous sentence should be read to suggest any waiver of any rights under federal or state securities laws.
The Investment Manager is an affiliate of Ameriprise Financial, Inc. (Ameriprise Financial). The Investment Manager
and its affiliates currently provide key services, including investment advisory, administration, distribution,
stockholder servicing and
/or
transfer agency services, to various other funds, including the Columbia Funds, and are
paid for providing these services. These service relationships are described below.
Prospectus 2024
26
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
The Investment Manager
Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC is located at 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210 and serves
as investment adviser and administrator to the Columbia Funds. The Investment Manager is a registered investment
adviser and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ameriprise Financial. The Investment Manager’s management experience
covers all major asset classes, including equity securities, debt instruments and money market instruments. In
addition to serving as an investment adviser to traditional mutual funds, exchange-traded funds and closed-end
funds, the Investment Manager acts as an investment adviser for itself, its affiliates, individuals, corporations,
retirement plans, private investment companies and financial intermediaries.
Subject to oversight by the Board, the Investment Manager manages the day-to-day operations of the Fund,
determining what securities and other investments the Fund should buy or sell and executing portfolio transactions.
The Investment Manager may use the research and other capabilities of its affiliates and third parties in managing
the Fund’s investments.
The Investment Manager is also responsible for overseeing the administrative operations of
the Fund, including the general supervision of the Fund’s operations, the coordination of the Fund’s other service
providers and the provision of related clerical and administrative services.
The Fund pays the Investment Manager a fee for its management services, which include investment advisory and
administrative services. The fee is calculated as a percentage of the Fund’s daily Managed Assets and is paid
monthly. Managed Assets means the net asset value of the Fund’s outstanding Common Shares plus the liquidation
preference of any issued and outstanding preferred stock of the Fund and the principal amount of any borrowings
used for leverage.
In calculating the management fee paid by the Fund to the Investment Manager, the Fund values
its assets, including its investments in derivatives, as described in the
"Computation of Net Asset Value"
section in
this
Prospectus.
The Board approved new management services fees, which takes effect as of the date of this
Prospectus. This fee is equal to 1.06% of the Fund
'
s
Managed Assets
on the first $500 million, gradually reducing to
0.85% as the Fund's Managed Assets increase. Previously, the management services fee was an annual fee equal to
1.06% on all of the Fund's daily Managed Assets. For the Fund’s most recent fiscal year, management services fees
paid to the Investment Manager by the Fund amounted to 1.06% of average daily Managed Assets of the Fund (with
no reductions as assets increase).
A discussion regarding the basis for the Board’s approval of the renewal of the Fund's management agreement is
available in the Fund’s June 30 semiannual report to stockholders.
Under the management agreement, the Fund also pays taxes, brokerage commissions and non-advisory expenses,
which include custodian fees and charges; fidelity bond premiums; certain legal fees; registration fees for shares, as
necessary; consultants’ fees; compensation of Board members, officers and employees not employed by the
Investment Manager or its affiliates; corporate filing fees; organizational expenses; expenses incurred in connection
with lending securities; interest and fee expense related to the Fund’s participation in inverse floater structures; and
expenses properly payable by the Fund, approved by the Board.
Columbia Management will pay the expenses of the
offering (other than the applicable commissions). Offering expenses generally include, but are not limited to, the
preparation, review and filing with the SEC of the Fund’s registration statement (including this Prospectus and the
SAI), the preparation, review and filing of any associated marketing or similar materials, costs associated with the
printing, mailing or other distribution of this Prospectus, SAI and/or marketing materials, associated filing fees, NYSE
listing fees, and legal and auditing fees associated with the offering.
Portfolio Managers
Information about the portfolio managers primarily responsible for overseeing the Fund’s investments is shown
below. The SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers, including information relating to
compensation, other accounts managed by the portfolio managers, and ownership by the portfolio managers of Fund
shares.
Portfolio Management |
Role with Fund |
Managed Fund Since |
Paul Wick |
Lead Portfolio Manager |
2009 |
Braj Agrawal |
Portfolio Manager |
2010 |
Christopher Boova |
Portfolio Manager |
2016 |
27
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
Portfolio Management |
Role with Fund |
Managed Fund Since |
Jeetil Patel |
Technology Team Member |
2015 |
Vimal Patel |
Technology Team Member |
2018 |
Shekhar Pramanick |
Technology Team Member |
2018 |
Mr. Wick
joined one of the Columbia Management legacy firms or acquired business lines in 1987. Mr. Wick is Team
Leader and Portfolio Manager for the Columbia Seligman Technology strategies. Mr. Wick began his investment
career in 1987 and earned a B.A. from Duke and an M.B.A. from Duke’s Fuqua School of Business.
Mr. Agrawal
joined one of the Columbia Management legacy firms or acquired business lines in 2010. Mr. Agrawal
began his investment career in 2001 and earned a B.A. in economics from received a B.A. in Economics from the
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and an M.B.A. from the University of Minnesota Carlson School of
Management.
Mr. Boova
joined one of the Columbia Management legacy firms or acquired business lines in 2000. Mr. Boova
began his investment career in 1995 and earned two B.S. degrees from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, an M.A. from
Georgetown University and an M.B.A. from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.
Mr. Patel
joined the Investment Manager in 2012. Mr. Patel began his investment career in 1998 and earned a B.A.
from University of California, Los Angeles.
Mr. Patel
joined the Investment Manager in 2014. Mr. Patel began his investment career in 2001 and earned a B.S.
from North Carolina State University, an M.S. from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and an M.B.A. from the
Anderson School of Management at the University of California, Los Angeles.
Dr. Pramanick
joined the Investment Manager in 2012. Dr. Pramanick began his investment career in 1993 and
earned a B.S. from the National Institute of Technology, an M.S. from the University of Oregon and a Ph.D. from North
Carolina State University.
Transfer Agent and Registrar
Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, serves as the Fund’s transfer agent
,
registrar and
dividend-paying agent, and
is located
at 48 Wall Street, Floor 23, New York, NY 10005.
Distributor
ALPS Distributors, Inc., serves as the Fund’s distributor in connection with the offer and sale of Common Shares
described above in “The Fund Offering” and “Plan of Distribution of Common Shares”, and is located at 1290
Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203.
Custodian
JPMorgan Chase, N.A. serves as custodian for the Fund’s portfolio securities and is located at 1 Chase Manhattan
Plaza, New York, NY 10005. It also maintains, under the general supervision of the Investment Manager, the
accounting records and determines the NAV for the Fund.
Affiliated Brokerage
The Fund may pay brokerage commission to brokers affiliated with the Fund’s Investment Manager. The Investment
Manager will use an affiliate only if (i) the Investment Manager determines that the Fund will receive prices and
executions at least as favorable, under the circumstances, as those offered by qualified independent brokers
performing similar brokerage and other services for the Fund and (ii) the affiliate charges the Fund commission rates
consistent with those the affiliate charges comparable unaffiliated customers in similar transactions and if such use
is consistent with terms of the management agreement. See the
Brokerage Allocation and Related Practices
section
of the SAI for more information.
Control Persons
To the knowledge of the Fund, no person
directly or indirectly
beneficially owned 25% or more of the Fund’s
outstanding securities as of
September 30
, 2024.
Prospectus 2024
28
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
Other Roles and Relationships of Ameriprise Financial and its Affiliates – Certain
Conflicts of Interest
The Investment Manager provides various services to the Fund and other Columbia Funds for which it is
compensated. Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates may also provide other services to these funds and be
compensated for them.
The Investment Manager and its affiliates may provide investment advisory and other services to other clients and
customers substantially similar to those provided to the Columbia Funds. These activities, and other financial
services activities of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, may present actual and potential conflicts of interest and
introduce certain investment constraints.
Ameriprise Financial is a major financial services company, engaged in a broad range of financial activities beyond
the fund-related activities of the Investment Manager, including, among others, insurance, broker-dealer (sales and
trading), asset management, banking and other financial activities. These additional activities may involve multiple
advisory, financial, insurance and other interests in securities and other instruments, and in companies that issue
securities and other instruments, that may be bought, sold or held by the Columbia Funds.
Conflicts of interest and limitations that could affect a Columbia Fund may arise from, for example, the following:
■
compensation and other benefits received by the Investment Manager and other Ameriprise Financial affiliates
related to the management/administration of a Columbia Fund and the sale of its shares;
■
the allocation of, and competition for, investment opportunities among the Fund, other funds and accounts
advised/managed by the Investment Manager and other Ameriprise Financial affiliates, or Ameriprise Financial
itself and its affiliates;
■
separate and potentially divergent management of a Columbia Fund and other funds and accounts
advised/managed by the Investment Manager and other Ameriprise Financial affiliates;
■
regulatory and other investment restrictions on investment activities of the Investment Manager and other
Ameriprise Financial affiliates and accounts advised/managed by them;
■
insurance and other relationships of Ameriprise Financial affiliates with companies and other entities in which a
Columbia Fund invests; and
■
regulatory and other restrictions relating to the sharing of information between Ameriprise Financial and its
affiliates, including the Investment Manager, and a Columbia Fund.
The Investment Manager and Ameriprise Financial have adopted various policies and procedures that are intended to
identify, monitor and address conflicts of interest. However, there is no assurance that these policies, procedures
and disclosures will be effective.
Additional information about Ameriprise Financial and the types of conflicts of interest and other matters referenced
above is set forth in the
Investment Management and Other Services — Other Roles and Relationships of Ameriprise
Financial and its Affiliates — Certain Conflicts of Interest
section of the SAI. Investors in the Columbia Funds should
carefully review these disclosures and consult with their financial advisor if they have any questions.
Certain Legal Matters
Ameriprise Financial and certain of its affiliates are involved in the normal course of business in legal proceedings
which include regulatory inquiries, arbitration and litigation, including class actions concerning matters arising in
connection with the conduct of their activities as part of a diversified financial services firm. Ameriprise Financial
believes that the Fund is not currently the subject of, and that neither Ameriprise Financial nor any of its affiliates are
the subject of, any pending legal, arbitration or regulatory proceedings that are likely to have a material adverse
effect on the Fund or the ability of Ameriprise Financial or its affiliates to perform under their contracts with the Fund.
Information regarding certain pending and settled legal proceedings may be found in the Fund’s stockholder reports
29
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
and in the SAI. Additionally, Ameriprise Financial is required to make quarterly (10-Q), annual (10-K) and, as
necessary, 8-K filings with the SEC on legal and regulatory matters that relate to Ameriprise Financial and its
affiliates. Copies of these filings may be obtained by accessing the SEC website at sec.gov.
Reports to Stockholders
The Fund will send to Common Stockholders unaudited semi-annual and audited annual reports, including a list of
investments held.
Anti-Takeover and Other Provisions of the Maryland General Corporation Law and the
Fund’s Charter and Bylaws
The Fund’s charter includes provisions that could limit the ability of other entities or persons to acquire control of the
Fund, to cause it to engage in certain transactions or to modify its structure.
Under Maryland law, a Maryland corporation such as the Fund generally cannot dissolve, amend its charter, merge,
sell all or substantially all of its assets, convert into another form of entity, engage in a share exchange or engage in
similar transactions outside the ordinary course of business, unless declared advisable by the Board and approved
by the affirmative vote of stockholders entitled to cast at least two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast on the
matter. A Maryland corporation may, however, provide in its charter for approval of these matters by a different
percentage, but not less than a majority of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. Subject to certain
exceptions described below, any such action will be effective and valid if declared advisable by the Board and
approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter.
The Fund’s charter provides that the liquidation or dissolution of the Fund, any merger, consolidation, share exchange
or sale or exchange of all or substantially all of the assets of the Fund that requires the approval of the Fund’s
stockholders under the Maryland General Corporation Law (“MGCL”), certain transactions between the Fund and any
person or group of persons acting together and any person controlling, controlled by or under common control with
any such person or member of such group, that may exercise or direct the exercise of 10% or more of the voting
power of the Fund (an “Interested Transaction”), any amendment to the Fund’s charter that would convert the Fund
from a closed-end investment company to an open end investment company or otherwise make the Fund’s Common
Shares a redeemable security and any amendment to certain provisions of the Fund’s charter, including the
provisions relating to the Fund’s business as a closed-end management investment company and the number,
qualifications, classification, election and removal of directors, and the vote required to amend such provisions,
requires the approval of the stockholders entitled to cast at least 80% of the votes entitled to be cast on such
matter. If such a proposal is approved by at least two-thirds of the Fund’s Continuing Directors (in addition to
approval by the full Board of Directors), however, such proposal may be approved by the stockholders entitled to cast
a majority of the votes entitled to be cast on such matter, provided, that, with respect to any Interested Transaction,
no stockholder approval is required if such transaction is approved by at least two-thirds of the Fund’s Continuing
Directors, unless the MGCL requires such approval. The “Continuing Directors” are defined in the Fund’s charter as
(i) the directors identified in the Fund’s charter, (ii) those directors whose nomination for election by the stockholders
or whose election by the directors to fill vacancies is approved by a majority of the directors identified in the Fund’s
charter and (iii) any successor directors whose nomination for election by the stockholders or whose election by the
directors to fill vacancies is approved by a majority of the Continuing Directors then in office. This provision could
make it more difficult for certain extraordinary transactions to be approved if they are opposed by the Continuing
Directors, and discourage proxy contests for control of the Fund’s Board by persons wishing to cause such
transactions to take place. The Fund’s charter and Bylaws provide that the Board of Directors will have the exclusive
power to adopt, alter or repeal any provision of the Fund’s Bylaws or to make new Bylaws.
The voting provisions described above could have the effect of depriving stockholders of an opportunity to sell their
Common Shares at a premium over prevailing market prices by discouraging a third party from seeking to obtain
control of the Fund in a tender offer or similar transaction. In the view of the Fund’s Board, however, these provisions
offer several possible advantages, including:
(1) requiring persons seeking control of the Fund to negotiate with its
management regarding the price to be paid for the amount of Common Shares required to obtain control;
(2)
Prospectus 2024
30
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
More Information About the Fund
(continued)
promoting continuity and stability; and (3) enhancing the Fund’s ability to pursue long-term strategies that are
consistent with its investment objectives and management policies. The Board has determined that the voting
requirements under the Fund’s charter described above, which are generally greater than the minimum requirements
under the 1940 Act and Maryland law, are in the best interests of the Fund’s stockholders generally. See “Certain
Provisions of the Fund’s Charter and Bylaws” in the SAI for a more detailed summary of these provisions.
The Board of Directors may from time to time grant other voting rights to stockholders with respect to these and
other matters in the Fund’s Bylaws.
Maryland law permits a Maryland corporation to include in its charter a provision eliminating the liability of its
directors and officers to the corporation and its stockholders for money damages, except for liability resulting from (a)
actual receipt of an improper benefit or profit in money, property or services or (b) active and deliberate dishonesty
that is established by a final judgment and is material to the cause of action. The Fund’s charter contains such a
provision which eliminates directors’ and officers’ liability to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law, subject
to the requirements of the 1940 Act.
The foregoing
is
intended only as a summary
of the Fund’s charter and Bylaws, both of which are on file with the
SEC.
31
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Capital Stock
Description of Capital Stock
The Fund currently has outstanding Common Shares. Each outstanding Common Share entitles the holder thereof to
one vote on all matters submitted to a vote of the Common Stockholders, including the election of directors. Because
the Fund currently has no other classes or series of stock outstanding, the holders of Common Shares possess
exclusive voting power. All of the Fund’s Common Shares have equal dividend, liquidation, voting and other rights.
The Fund’s Common Stockholders have no preference, conversion, redemption, exchange, sinking fund rights,
generally have no appraisal rights and have no preemptive rights to subscribe for any of the Fund’s securities.
Although the Fund has no current intention to do so, the Fund is authorized and reserves the flexibility to use
leverage to increase its investments or for other management activities through the issuance of preferred stock
and/or borrowings. The costs of issuing preferred stock and/or a borrowing program would be borne by Common
Stockholders and consequently would result in a reduction of net asset value of Common Shares.
The Fund is a closed-end management investment company and, as such, its Common Stockholders will not have the
right to cause the Fund to redeem their shares. Instead, the Common Shares will trade in the open market at a price
that will be a function of several factors, including financial leverage, dividend levels (which are in turn affected by
expenses), net asset value, call protection, dividend stability, portfolio credit quality, relative demand for and supply
of such shares in the market, general market and economic conditions and other factors, as applicable. Shares of a
closed-end management investment company may frequently trade at prices lower than net asset value.
Dividend Rights
Common Stockholders are entitled to receive dividends only if and to the extent declared and only after such
provisions have been made for working capital and for reserves as the Board may deem advisable. For more
information about distributions, see
Capital Stock – Distributions and Taxes – Distributions
below.
Voting Rights
The Common Shares are entitled to one vote per share at all meetings of Common Stockholders
(with fractional
shares entitled to a proportionate fractional vote)
. Notwithstanding any provision of law requiring any action to be
taken or authorized by the affirmative vote of the holders of a designated portion of all the shares or of the shares of
each class, such action shall be effective if taken or authorized by the affirmative vote of a majority of the aggregate
number of the votes entitled to vote thereon. Fundamental investment policies cannot be changed without the
approval of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund. The term “majority of the outstanding
shares” means the vote of (i) 67% or more of a Fund’s shares present at a meeting, if more than 50% of the
outstanding shares of the Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of a Fund’s outstanding
shares, whichever is less.
The Fund’s charter provides that the liquidation or dissolution of the Fund, any merger, consolidation, share exchange
or sale or exchange of all or substantially all of the assets of the Fund that requires the approval of the Fund’s
stockholders under the MGCL,
interested transactions
, any amendment to the Fund’s charter that would convert the
Fund from a closed-end investment company to an open end investment company or otherwise make the Fund’s
Common Shares a redeemable security and any amendment to certain provisions of the Fund’s charter, including the
provisions relating to the Fund’s business as a closed-end management investment company and the number,
qualifications, classification, election and removal of directors, and the vote required to amend such provisions,
requires the approval of the stockholders entitled to cast at least 80% of the votes entitled to be cast on such
matter. If such a proposal is approved by at least two-thirds of the Fund’s Continuing Directors (in addition to
approval by the full Board of Directors), however, such proposal may be approved by the stockholders entitled to cast
a majority of the votes entitled to be cast on such matter, provided, that, with respect to any Interested Transaction,
no stockholder approval is required if such transaction is approved by at least two-thirds of the Fund’s Continuing
Directors, unless the MGCL requires such approval. This could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing
changes in control of the Fund.
Prospectus 2024
32
Columbia Seligman Premium
Technology
Growth Fund, Inc.Capital Stock
(continued)
Liquidation Rights
In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Fund, the Common
Stockholders are entitled to share ratably in all the remaining assets of the Fund available for distribution to Common
Stockholders.
Other Provisions
Common Stockholders do not have preemptive, subscription or conversion rights, and are not liable for further calls
or assessments. The Fund’s Board is classified as nearly as equal as possible into three equal classes with a
maximum three-year term so that the term of one class of directors expires at each annual meeting. Each director is
elected by the affirmative vote of the holders of the majority of the shares of stock outstanding and entitled to vote
thereon. Such classification provides continuity of experience and stability of the Board while providing for the
election of a portion of the Board each year. Such classification could have the effect of delaying, deferring or
preventing changes in control of the Fund.
Derivative and Direct Claims of Stockholders
The Fund’s Bylaws contain provisions regarding derivative and direct claims of stockholders. The Bylaws define a
“direct” stockholder claim as (i) a claim based upon alleged violations of a stockholder’s individual rights
independent of any harm to the Fund, including a stockholder’s voting rights under the Bylaws; rights to receive a
dividend payment as may be declared from time to time, rights to inspect books and records, or other similar rights
personal to the stockholder and independent of any harm to the Fund, and (ii) a claim for which an action is provided
under the federal securities laws or by state statute. The Bylaws define any other claim asserted by a stockholder,
including without limitation any claims purporting to be brought on behalf of the Fund or involving any alleged harm to
the Fund, as a “derivative” claim.
The Bylaws state that a stockholder may not bring or maintain any court action or other proceeding asserting a direct
claim against the Fund, the directors, or officers if it constitutes a “derivative” claim as defined in the Bylaws. The
Bylaws state that a stockholder may not bring or maintain any court action or other proceeding asserting a derivative
claim or any claim asserted on behalf of the Fund or involving any alleged harm to the Fund without first making
demand on the directors requesting the directors to bring or maintain such action, proceeding or claim. The Bylaws
further state that demand shall not be excused under any circumstances, including claims of alleged interest on the
part of the directors, unless the stockholder makes a specific showing that irreparable nonmonetary injury to the
Fund would otherwise result.
The Bylaws provide that the directors shall consider any demand or request within 90 days of its receipt by the Fund
or inform claimants within such time that further review and consideration is required, in which case the directors
shall have an additional 120 days to respond. The Bylaws further provide that the directors may submit the matter to
a vote of stockholders of the Fund or of any series or class of shares, as appropriate, in their sole discretion. The
Bylaws state that any decision by the directors to bring, maintain or settle (or not to bring, maintain or settle) such
court action, proceeding or claim, or to submit the matter to a vote of stockholders, shall be binding upon the
stockholders; provided, however, that such decision by the directors does not apply to claims arising under the
federal securities laws.
These provisions may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim against the directors, officers or other employees
of the Fund and/or its service providers.
Distributions and Taxes
The Fund intends to continue to qualify and be treated as a regulated investment company under the Internal
Revenue Code. As a regulated investment company, the Fund will generally not be subject to federal income taxes on
its investment company taxable income and net capital gains realized during the year, if any, which it distributes to
stockholders, provided that at least 90% of its investment company taxable income (which includes net short-term
capital gains) is distributed to stockholders each year, among other requirements.
33
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Capital Stock
(continued)
Qualification as a regulated investment company does not involve governmental supervision of management or
investment practices or policies. Investors should consult their own advisors for a complete understanding of the
requirements the Fund must meet to qualify for such treatment. The information set forth below relates solely to
certain U.S. Federal tax matters applicable to the Fund and its U.S. stockholders, and assumes that the Fund
qualifies as a regulated investment company.
If for any year the Fund does not qualify as a regulated investment company, all of its taxable income (including its
net capital gain) will be subject to tax at the corporate tax rate without any deduction for distributions to stockholders.
Such distributions would generally be taxable to the stockholders as qualified dividend income and generally would be
eligible for the dividends received deduction in the case of corporate stockholders.
Distributions
The Fund adopted a managed distribution policy (the Distribution Policy) that relies upon an exemptive order obtained
from the SEC permitting the Fund to distribute long-term capital gains more often than once in any one taxable year.
The Fund paid its first dividend under the Fund’s managed distribution policy in November 2010. Under the
Distribution Policy, the Fund intends to make quarterly distributions to Common Stockholders, as authorized by the
Board, from legally-available funds, at a rate that reflects the past and projected performance of the Fund. The
Fund’s Board of Directors (the Board) may modify or terminate the Distribution Policy at any time; any such change or
termination may have an adverse effect on the market price for Common Shares.
To the extent that the Fund’s taxable income in any fiscal year exceeds the aggregate amount distributed pursuant to
the Distribution Policy based on a fixed percentage of its NAV, if authorized by the Board, the Fund intends to make
an additional distribution in the amount of that excess near the end of the fiscal year from legally-available funds. The
Fund expects to receive all or some of its current income and gains from the following sources: (i) dividends received
by the Fund that are paid on the equity securities (generally common stocks, but can also include preferred stocks) in
its portfolio; and (ii) capital gains (short-term and long-term) from option premiums and the sale of portfolio
securities. It is possible that the Fund’s distributions will at times exceed the earnings and profits of the Fund and
therefore all or a portion of such distributions may constitute a return of capital. A return of capital is a return of a
portion of an investor’s original investment. A return of capital is not taxable, but it reduces a Stockholder’s tax basis
in his or her shares, thus reducing any loss or increasing any gain on a subsequent taxable disposition by the
Stockholder of his or her shares. Capital return to stockholders through distributions will be distributed after the
payment of Fund fees and expenses. Distributions may vary, and the Fund’s distribution rate will depend on a number
of factors, including the net earnings on the Fund’s portfolio investments and the rate at which such net earnings
change as a result of changes in the timing of, and rates at which, the Fund receives income from the sources
described above. The net investment income of the Fund consists of all income (other than net short-term and long-term
capital gains) less all expenses of the Fund. The Board of Directors may change the Fund’s distribution policy
and the amount or timing of the distributions, based on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, as the
Fund’s portfolio and market conditions change, the amount of the Fund’s undistributed net investment income and
net short- and long-term capital gains and historical and projected net investment income and net short- and long-term
capital gains. Over time, the Fund intends to distribute all of its net investment income and net short-term
capital gains. In addition, at least annually, the Fund intends to distribute any net capital gain (which is the excess of
net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss) or, alternatively, to retain all or a portion of the year’s net
capital gain and pay federal income tax on the retained gain.
The SEC exemptive order permitting the adoption of the Fund’s managed distribution policy requires the Fund to
adhere to certain conditions with respect to public offerings. The SEC exemptive order requires that the Fund will not
make a public offering of Common Shares other than: (i) a rights offering that is below NAV to holders of the Common
Shares; (ii) an offering in connection with a dividend reinvestment plan, merger, consolidation, acquisition, spin off or
reorganization of the Fund; or (iii) an offering other than as noted in (i) or (ii) above in which the Fund’s annualized
distribution rate for the six months ending on the last day of the month ended immediately prior to the most recent
distribution record date, expressed as a percentage of NAV as of such date, is no more than 1 percentage point
greater than the Fund’s average annual total return for the 5-year period ending on such date and the transmittal
Prospectus 2024
34
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Capital Stock
(continued)
letter accompanying any registration statement filed with the SEC in connection with the offering discloses that the
Fund has a managed distribution policy exemptive order. Any offering of Common Shares will comply with the
conditions of the SEC exemptive order.
Taxes on Distributions
Dividends from net investment income, if any, are declared and paid quarterly. While the Fund intends to make
quarterly level distributions, it is possible that the Fund may also pay a special distribution at the end of the calendar
year to comply with federal tax requirements. In general, your distributions are subject to federal income tax when
they are paid, whether you take them in cash or reinvest them in the Fund. Dividends paid out of the Fund's income
and net short-term capital gains, if any, are taxable as ordinary income. Distributions of net long-term capital gains, if
any, in excess of net short-term capital losses are taxable as long-term capital gains, regardless of how long you
have held your Common Shares.
Individual stockholders will be subject to federal income tax on distributions reported by the Fund as capital gains
dividends at preferential rates (0%, 15%, or 20%). Net capital gain of a corporate stockholder is taxed at the same
rate as ordinary income.
Distributions in excess of the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits are treated as a tax-free return of
capital to the extent of your basis in your Common Shares, and as capital gain thereafter. A distribution will reduce
the Fund's net asset value per Common Share and may be taxable to you as ordinary income or capital gain even
though, from an investment standpoint, the distribution may constitute a return of capital.
Some of the Fund's investments and positions may be subject to special tax rules that may change the normal
treatment of income, gains and losses recognized by the Fund (for example, the calls written by the Fund on the
Nasdaq 100, and investments in futures transactions or non-U.S. corporations classified as “passive foreign
investment companies”). Those special tax rules can, among other things, affect the treatment of capital gain or loss
as long-term or short-term and may result in ordinary income or loss rather than capital gain or loss. The application
of these special rules could therefore also affect the character of distributions made by the Fund and may increase
the amount of taxes payable by Common Stockholders.
Each January, you will be sent information on the tax status of any distributions made during the previous calendar
year. Because each Common Stockholder's situation is unique, you should always consult
your
tax adviser
concerning the effect income taxes may have on your individual investment.
The securities in which the Fund invest may not provide complete tax information to the Fund as to the tax character
of the dividends distributed by such company (e.g., income, capital gain or return of capital) until after the calendar
year end. Consequently, because of such delay, it may be necessary for the Fund to request permission to extend the
deadline for the issuance of a Form 1099-DIV until after January 31 or to issue a revised Form 1099-DIV after
January 31. Further, the tax treatment of distributions reported on Form 1099-DIV may differ from the
characterization of distributions provided at the time the distribution was made.
Taxes on Sales of Shares
When you sell your Common Shares, any gain or loss you realize will generally be treated as a long term capital gain
or loss if you held your Common Shares for more than one year, or as a short-term capital gain or loss if you held
your Common Shares for one year or less. The ability to deduct capital losses may be limited. However, if you sell
your Common Shares on which a long-term capital gain distribution has been received (or on which amounts have
been designated as undistributed capital gains) and you held the shares for six months or less, any loss you realize
will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of the long-term capital gain distribution (or amounts
designated as undistributed capital gains) with respect to the Common Shares. A loss realized on a sale or exchange
of Common Shares of the Fund may be disallowed if other substantially identical shares are acquired within a 61-day
period beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the date of which the Common Shares are disposed. In
that case, the basis in the newly purchased shares will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.
The information provided above is only a summary of certain U.S. federal tax matters that may affect your investment
in Common Shares. It is not intended as a substitute for careful tax planning. Your investment in Common Shares
may have other tax implications. The information above does not apply to certain types of investors who may be
35
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Capital Stock
(continued)
subject to special rules, including foreign or tax-exempt investors or those holding Common Shares through a tax-advantaged
account, such as a 401(k) plan or IRA. You should consult with your own tax advisor about the particular
tax consequences to you of an investment in Common Shares, including the effect of any foreign, state and local
taxes, and the effect of possible changes in applicable tax laws.
Prospectus 2024
36
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Computation of Net Asset Value
The Fund calculates the NAV per share of Common Shares at the end of each business day, with the value of the
Fund’s Common Shares based on the total value of all of the securities and other assets that it holds as of a
specified time.
FUNDamentals
NAV Calculation
NAV per Common Shares is calculated as follows:
NAV per share =
(Value of assets of the Fund) – (Liabilities of the Fund)
Number of outstanding Common Shares
FUNDamentals
Business Days
A business day is any day that the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open. A business day typically ends at the
close of regular trading on the NYSE, usually at 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. If the NYSE is scheduled to close early,
the business day will be considered to end as of the time of the NYSE’s scheduled close. The Fund will not treat
an intraday unscheduled disruption in NYSE trading or an intraday unscheduled closing as a close of regular
trading on the NYSE for these purposes and will price its shares as of the regularly scheduled closing time for
that day (typically, 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). Nonetheless, the NAV of Fund shares may be determined at such
other time or times (in addition to or in lieu of the time set forth above) as the Fund’s Board may approve or
ratify. On holidays and other days when the NYSE is closed, the Fund’s NAV is not calculated and the Fund does
not accept buy or sell orders. However, the value of the Fund’s assets may still be affected on such days to the
extent that the Fund holds foreign securities that trade on days that foreign securities markets are open.
Equity securities listed on an exchange are typically valued at the closing price or last trade on their primary exchange
at the close of business of the NYSE. Equity securities without a readily available closing price or that are not listed
on any exchange are typically valued at the mean between the closing bid and asked prices. Other equity securities,
debt securities and other assets are valued differently. For instance, bank loans trading in the secondary market are
fair valued unless market quotations are readily available, fixed income investments maturing in 60 days or less are
valued primarily using the amortized cost method, unless this methodology results in a valuation that does not
approximate the market value of these securities, and those maturing in excess of 60 days are valued based on
prices obtained from a pricing service, if available (which may represent market values or fair values). Investments in
open-end funds are valued at their published NAVs. The value of the Fund’s portfolio securities is determined in
accordance with the valuation policy approved by the Board (the Valuation Policy). Pursuant to Rule 2a-5 under the
1940 Act, the Board has designated the Investment Manager as the Fund’s valuation designee. The Investment
Manager, in turn, has authorized its valuation committee to make fair value determinations and to carry out
supervisory and certain other functions relating to the valuation of Fund portfolio securities, pursuant to the Valuation
Policy.
If a market price is not readily available or is deemed not to reflect market value for a portfolio security, the
Investment Manager will determine the price based on a determination of the security's fair value pursuant to the
Valuation Policy. In addition, the Investment Manager may use fair valuation techniques to price securities that trade
on a foreign exchange when a significant event has occurred after the foreign exchange closes but before the time at
which the Fund’s share price is calculated. Foreign exchanges typically close before the time at which Fund share
prices are calculated, and may be closed altogether on days when the Fund is open. Such significant events affecting
a foreign security may include, but are not limited to: (1) corporate actions, earnings announcements, litigation or
other events impacting a single issuer; (2) governmental action that affects securities in one sector or country; (3)
natural disasters or armed conflicts affecting a country or region; or (4) significant domestic or foreign market
fluctuations. The Fund uses various criteria, including an evaluation of U.S. market moves after the close of foreign
markets, in determining whether a foreign security's market price is readily available and reflective of market value
37
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Computation of Net Asset Value
(continued)
and, if not, the fair value of the security.
To the extent the Fund has significant holdings of small cap stocks, high-yield
bonds, floating rate loans, or tax-exempt, foreign or other securities that may trade infrequently, fair valuation
may be used more frequently than for other funds.
Fair valuation may have the effect of reducing stale pricing arbitrage opportunities presented by the pricing of Fund
shares. However, when the Investment Manager uses fair valuation to price equity securities, it may value those
securities higher or lower than another fund or manager would. Also, fair valuation of Fund holdings may cause the
Fund's performance to diverge to a greater degree from the performance of various benchmark indices used to
compare the Fund's performance because indices generally do not use fair valuation techniques. Because of the
judgment involved in fair valuation decisions, there can be no assurance that the value ascribed to a particular
security is accurate.
The Fund has retained one or more independent fair valuation pricing services to assist in the
fair valuation process for foreign securities.
Futures and options on futures are valued based upon the settlement price as determined by the principal exchange
on which they are traded or, in the absence of a settlement price, at the mean of the closing bid and ask. Generally,
over-the-counter derivatives, such as swaps and swaptions, are valued based on a price provided by an approved
pricing service.
The Fund currently intends to make open market purchases of its Common Shares from time to time when Common
Shares are trading at a discount to NAV, in an amount approximately sufficient to offset the growth in the number of
Common Shares attributable to the reinvestment of the portion of its distributions to Common Stockholders that are
attributable to distributions received from portfolio investments less Fund expenses. Assets of the Fund used to
repurchase Common Shares are not available for investment in accordance with the Fund's investment objectives
and strategies.
Prospectus 2024
38
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Dividend Investment Plan and Stock Repurchase Program
In addition to purchasing Fund Common Shares as described under “The Fund Offering” and “Plan of Distribution of
Common Shares” in this Prospectus, Fund Common Stockholders can also acquire Common Shares through the
Fund’s Dividend Investment Plan, as described below. The Fund also repurchases its Common Shares in the open
market as noted below under “Stock Repurchase Program.”
Dividend Investment Plan
Pursuant to the Fund's Dividend Investment Plan (the Plan), unless a Common Stockholder elects otherwise, all cash
dividends, capital gains distributions, and other distributions are automatically reinvested in additional Common
Shares. Common Stockholders who elect not to participate in the Plan (including those whose intermediaries do not
permit participation in the Plan by their customers) will receive all dividends and distributions payable in cash directly
to the Common Stockholder of record (or, if the Common Shares are held in street or other nominee name, then to
such nominee) as dividend paying agent. Common Stockholders may elect not to participate in the Plan and to
receive all distributions of dividends and capital gains or other distributions in cash by sending written instructions to
the Transfer Agent. Participation in the Plan may be terminated or resumed at any time without penalty by written
notice if received by the Transfer Agent prior to the record date for the next distribution. Otherwise, such termination
or resumption will be effective with respect to any subsequently declared distribution.
Under the Plan, Common Stockholders receive Common Shares
,
which may include fractional shares,
in lieu of cash
distributions unless they have elected otherwise as described in the preceding paragraph. Common Shares
and any
fractional shares, as applicable,
will be issued in lieu of cash by the Fund from previously authorized but unissued
Common Shares. If the market price of a share on the ex-dividend date of such a distribution is at or above the
Fund's net asset value per share on such date, the number of shares to be issued by the Fund to each Common
Stockholder receiving shares in lieu of cash distributions will be determined by dividing the amount of the cash
distribution to which such Common Stockholder would be entitled by the greater of the net asset value per share on
such date or 95% of the market price of a share on such date. If the market price of a share on such an ex-dividend
date is below the net asset value per share, the number of shares to be issued to such Common Stockholders will be
determined by dividing such amount by the per share market price. The issuance of Common Shares at less than net
asset value per share will dilute the net asset value of all Common Shares outstanding at that time. Market price on
any day means the closing price for the Common Shares at the close of regular trading on the New York Stock
Exchange on such day or, if such day is not a day on which the Common Shares trades, the closing price for the
Common Shares at the close of regular trading on the immediately preceding day on which trading occurs.
Common Stockholders who hold their shares in the name of a broker or other nominee should contact such broker or
other nominee to discuss the extent to which such nominee will permit their participation in the Plan. The Fund will
administer the Plan on the basis of the number of shares certified from time to time by nominees as representing the
total amount of shares held through such nominees by beneficial Common Stockholders who are participating in the
Plan and by delivering shares on behalf of such beneficial Common Stockholders to the nominees' accounts at The
Depository Trust Company.
The Transfer Agent will maintain all Common Stockholders' accounts in the Plan not held by The Depository Trust
Company and furnish written confirmation of all transactions in the account, including information needed by
Common Stockholders for tax records.
The automatic reinvestment of Fund distributions will not relieve Plan
participants of any federal, state or local income tax that may be payable (or required to be withheld) on such
distributions.
Shares in the account of each Plan participant will be held in non-certificated form in the name of the
participant, and each Common Stockholder's proxy will include those shares purchased or received pursuant to the
Plan.
An investor holding shares that participate in the Plan in a brokerage account may not be able to transfer the
shares to another broker and continue to participate in the Plan.
The Fund reserves the right to amend or terminate the Plan as applied to any distribution paid subsequent to written
notice of the change sent to participants in the Plan at least 90 days before the record date for such distribution.
There are currently no service or brokerage charges to participants in the Plan; however, the Fund reserves the right
to amend the Plan to include a service charge payable to the Fund by the participants. The Fund also reserves the
39
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Dividend Investment Plan and Stock Repurchase Program
(continued)
right to amend the Plan to provide for payment of brokerage fees by Plan participants in the event the Plan is
changed to provide for open market purchases of Common Shares on behalf of Plan participants. All correspondence
concerning the Plan should be directed to the Transfer Agent, 6201 15th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11219
or by calling
866.666.1532
.
Prospectus 2024
40
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Dividend Investment Plan and Stock Repurchase Program
(continued)
Stock Repurchase Program
The Fund
may pay distributions to Common Stockholders that are
,
in whole or in part, attributable to distributions
received by the Fund from its underlying portfolio investments (Portfolio Company Distributions). The Fund,
under its
stock repurchase program, currently intends to make open market purchases of its Common Shares from time to
time when Common Shares are trading at a discount to NAV per share, in an amount approximately sufficient to
offset the growth in the number of Common Shares issued as a result of
Common Stockholders reinvesting Fund
distributions,
but only with respect to any portion of the Fund distribution constituting Portfolio Company Distributions
less Fund expenses.
Subject to its investment limitations,
the Fund
may borrow to finance the repurchase of shares.
Interest on any borrowings to finance share repurchase transactions or the accumulation of cash by the Fund in
anticipation of share repurchases will reduce
the Fund’s
net income.
Any share repurchase or borrowing would have
to comply with the Exchange Act and the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder
.
The Fund has no
present intention to borrow in order to finance any repurchase of Common Shares.
REPURCHASE OF COMMON SHARES; TENDER OFFERS; CONVERSION TO OPEN-END
FUND
The Fund is a closed-end management investment company and, as such, its Common Stockholders will not have the
right to cause the Fund to redeem their shares. Instead, the Common Shares will trade in the open market at a price
that will be a function of several factors, including financial leverage, dividend levels (which are in turn affected by
expenses), net asset value, call protection, dividend stability, portfolio credit quality, relative demand for and supply
of such shares in the market, general market and economic conditions and other factors, as applicable. Shares of a
closed-end management investment company may frequently trade at prices lower than net asset value. The
Distributor and any Sub-Placement Agent are under no obligation to distribute Common Shares on a “best efforts” or
other such basis. The Fund will only authorize the issuance of Common Shares under this Prospectus as described
above under
Plan of Distribution of Common Shares
. The
Board will monitor the relationship between the market
price and net asset value of the Common Shares. If the Common Shares were to trade at a substantial discount to
NAV per share for an extended period of time, the Board may consider the repurchase of its Common Shares on the
open market or in private transactions, the making of a tender offer for such shares, or the conversion of the Fund to
an open-end management investment company, which would require approval by the stockholders. The Fund cannot
assure you that its Board will decide to consider, take or propose any of these actions, or that share repurchases or
tender offers will actually reduce market discount.
If the Fund converted to an open-end management investment company, it would be required to redeem any Fund
preferred shares then outstanding, if any (requiring in turn that it liquidate a portion of its investment portfolio), and
the Common Shares would be de-listed from the NYSE. In contrast to a closed-end management investment
company, shareholders of an open-end management investment company may require the company to redeem their
shares at any time (except in certain circumstances as authorized by or under the 1940 Act) at their net asset value,
less any redemption charge that is in effect at the time of redemption.
For a description of the requisite vote for
converting the Fund to an open-end management investment company, see the
Anti-Takeover and Other Provisions of
the Maryland General Corporation Law and the Fund’s Charter and Bylaws
section above.
Before deciding whether to take any action to convert the Fund to an open-end management investment company, the
Board would consider all relevant factors, including the extent and duration of the discount, the liquidity of the Fund's
portfolio, the Fund’s investment strategy, the additional flexibility afforded closed-end funds relative to open-end
funds under the 1940 Act, the impact of any action that might be taken on the Fund or its stockholders, and market
considerations. Based on these considerations, even if the Common Shares should trade at a discount, the Board
may determine that, in the interest of the Fund and its stockholders, no action should be taken. See the SAI under
"Repurchase of Common Shares; Tender Offers; Conversion to Open-End Fund" for a further discussion of possible
action in seeking to reduce or eliminate such discount to net asset value. Any such action may or not be successful
in mitigating or eliminating any Fund trading discount.
41
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Additional Information
Issuance of Common Shares in Connection with Acquisitions
The Fund may issue Common Shares in exchange for the assets of another investment company in transactions in
which the number of Common Shares to be delivered will be generally determined by dividing the current value of the
seller’s assets by the current per share NAV or market price on the Exchange of Common Shares, or by an
intermediate amount. In such acquisitions, the number of Fund Common Shares to be issued will not be determined
on the basis of the market price of such Common Shares if such price is lower than its NAV per share, except
pursuant to an appropriate order of the Securities and Exchange Commission or approval by stockholders of the
Fund, as required by law.
Some or all of the stock so issued may be sold from time to time by the recipients or their stockholders through
brokers in ordinary transactions on stock exchanges at current market prices. The Fund has been advised that such
sellers may be deemed to be underwriters as that term is defined in the 1933 Act.
Incorporation by Reference
As noted above, this Prospectus is part of a registration statement filed with the SEC. The Fund is permitted to
“incorporate by reference” the information filed with the SEC, which means that the Fund can disclose important
information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is considered to
be part of this Prospectus
.
Any statement in a document incorporated by reference into this prospectus will be deemed to be automatically
modified or superseded to the extent a statement contained in this prospectus or any other subsequently filed
document that is incorporated by reference into this prospectus modifies or supersedes such statement
.
The documents listed below, and any reports and other documents subsequently filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule
30(b)(2) under the 1940 Act and Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, prior to the termination of
the offering will be incorporated by reference into the Fund’s registration statement and deemed to be part of it from
the date of the filing of such reports and documents:
■
the Fund’s Statement of Additional Information, dated
November
15
, 2024, filed with this Prospectus;
■
■
the description of the Fund’s Common Shares contained in its Registration Statement on
Form N-8A filed with
the SEC on September 4, 2009, including any amendment or report filed for the purpose of updating such
description prior to the termination of the offering registered hereby;
■
the Fund’s definitive
Proxy Statement, dated April 22, 2024, filed with the SEC on April 22, 2024; and
■
the Fund’s Forms 8-K, filed on
February 9, 2024,
March 14, 2024,
May 3, 2024,
June 25, 2024, and
August 9, 2024.
You may obtain copies of any information incorporated by reference into this Prospectus, at no charge, by writing to
the Transfer Agent at 48 Wall Street, Floor 23, New York, NY 10005 or calling toll-free the Transfer Agent at
866.666.1532. The Fund’s periodic reports filed pursuant to Section 30(b)(2) of the 1940 Act and Sections 13 and
15(d) of the Exchange Act, as well as the Prospectus and the Statement of Additional Information, are available on
the Fund’s website www.columbiathreadneedleus.com.
In addition, the SEC maintains a website at www.sec.gov, free
of charge, that contains these reports, the Fund’s proxy and information statements, and other information relating
to the Fund.
Legal Opinions and Experts
Certain legal matters in connection with the Common Shares will be passed upon for the Fund by Ropes & Gray LLP,
located at Prudential Tower, 800 Boylston St., Boston, MA 02199, which serves as legal counsel to the Fund and,
with respect to matters of Maryland law, by Venable LLP, located at 750 E. Pratt St., Suite 900, Baltimore, MD
21202.
Prospectus 2024
42
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Additional Information
(continued)
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, provides auditing and tax services to
the Fund. The Fund’s financial statements as of and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023, incorporated by
reference in the SAI, have been incorporated in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an
independent registered public accounting firm, given on the authority of such firm as experts in auditing and
accounting.
Notes Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this Prospectus and the SAI, including documents incorporated by reference herein and
therein, constitute forward-looking statements, which involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other
factors that may cause the actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements of the Fund to be materially
different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such
forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, those listed under “Principal Risks” and elsewhere
in this Prospectus. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, no assurance can be given as to the future results,
levels of activity or achievements
. Although the Fund believes that the expectations expressed in any forward-looking
statements are reasonable, actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking
statements. The Fund’s future financial condition and results of operations, as well as any forward-looking
statements, are subject to change and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties, such as those disclosed in
the “Principal Risks” section of this Prospectus and in the “Information Regarding Risks” section of the SAI. You are
cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements contained
or incorporated by reference in this Prospectus are made as of the date of this Prospectus. Except for the Fund’s
ongoing obligations under the federal securities laws, the Fund does not intend, and the Fund undertakes no
obligation, to update any forward-looking statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this Prospectus
and the SAI are
not afforded
the safe harbor protection provided by Section 27A of the 1933 Act. Currently known
risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Fund’s expectations include, but are not
limited to, the factors described in the “Principal Risk” section of this Prospectus and the “Information Regarding
Risks” section of the SAI. The Fund urges you to review carefully those sections for a more detailed discussion of the
risks of an investment in Common Shares.
Available Information
The Fund is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
Exchange Act), and the 1940 Act and is required to file reports, including annual and semi-annual reports, proxy
statements and other information with the SEC. These documents are available on the SEC’s EDGAR system. This
Prospectus and the SAI do not contain all of the information in our registration statement, including amendments,
exhibits, and schedules that the Fund has filed with the SEC (File No. 333-
280485
). Statements in this Prospectus
about the contents of any contract or other document are not necessarily complete and in each instance reference is
made to the copy of the contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the registration statement
. Additional
information about the Fund can be found in its registration statement (including amendments, exhibits, and
schedules) on Form N-2 filed with the SEC. The SEC maintains a web site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains our
registration statement, other documents incorporated by reference, and other information filed electronically with the
SEC, including proxy statements and reports filed under the Exchange Act.
43
Prospectus 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Additional Information
(continued)
Table of Contents of the Statement of Additional Information
SAI PRIMER.................................................................................................................................................. |
2 |
ABOUT THE FUND.......................................................................................................................................... |
5 |
ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT POLICIES.............................................................................................................. |
6 |
ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS.......................................................................................................................... |
9 |
Types of Investments................................................................................................................................. |
9 |
Information Regarding Risks....................................................................................................................... |
46 |
Lending of Portfolio Securities..................................................................................................................... |
77 |
Interfund Lending....................................................................................................................................... |
78 |
INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AND OTHER SERVICES...................................................................................... |
80 |
The Investment Manager............................................................................................................................ |
80 |
Potential Conflicts of Interest...................................................................................................................... |
82 |
Structure of Compensation......................................................................................................................... |
84 |
The Administrator....................................................................................................................................... |
85 |
Other Services Provided............................................................................................................................. |
85 |
Other Roles and Relationships of Ameriprise Financial and Its Affiliates — Certain Conflicts of Interest........... |
85 |
Codes of Ethics.......................................................................................................................................... |
90 |
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures........................................................................................................... |
90 |
FUND GOVERNANCE...................................................................................................................................... |
92 |
Board of Directors and Officers................................................................................................................... |
92 |
Compensation............................................................................................................................................ |
102 |
BROKERAGE ALLOCATION AND RELATED PRACTICES..................................................................................... |
104 |
General Brokerage Policy, Brokerage Transactions and Broker Selection......................................................... |
104 |
Brokerage Commissions............................................................................................................................. |
107 |
Directed Brokerage..................................................................................................................................... |
108 |
Securities of Regular Broker-Dealers............................................................................................................ |
108 |
TAXATION...................................................................................................................................................... |
109 |
CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES...................................................................... |
121 |
INFORMATION REGARDING PENDING AND SETTLED LEGAL PROCEEDINGS..................................................... |
122 |
Other Information.................................................................................................................................... |
123 |
Certain Provisions of the Fund’s Charter and Bylaws.................................................................................... |
123 |
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.. |
127 |
Incorporation by Reference................................................................................................................... |
128 |
APPENDIX A — DESCRIPTION OF CREDIT RATINGS........................................................................................ |
A-1 |
APPENDIX B — CORPORATE GOVERNANCE GUIDELINES................................................................................ |
B-1 |
Prospectus 2024
44
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
290 Congress Street
Boston, MA 02210
Additional Information About the Fund
Additional information about the Fund’s investments is available in the Fund’s current annual and semi-annual reports and future reports to
stockholders. In the annual reports, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the
Fund’s performance during the last fiscal year covered by the report. The SAI also provides additional information about the Fund and its
policies. The SAI, which has been filed with the SEC, is legally part of this prospectus (incorporated by reference). To obtain these documents
free of charge, to request other information about the Fund and to make stockholder inquiries, please contact the Fund as follows:
By Mail:
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
Equinity Trust Company, LLC
48 Wall Street, Floor 23
New York, NY 10005
By Telephone:
866.666.1532
Online:
columbiathreadneedleus.com
Reports and other information about the Fund are also available in the EDGAR Database on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. You can
receive copies of this information, for a fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov.
Investment Company Act File #811-22328
TICKER SYMBOL: STK
Columbia Threadneedle Investments is the global brand name of the Columbia and Threadneedle group of companies.
© 2024 Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC. All rights reserved.
[PRO_______]
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION | PRELIMINARY STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION | DATED AS OF October 30, 2024
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
November 15, 2024
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
(the “Fund”)
290 Congress Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02210
Toll-Free Telephone: (866) 666-1532
Toll-Free Telephone: (866) 666-1532
Unless the context indicates otherwise, references herein to “each Fund,” “the Fund,” “a Fund,” “the Funds” or “Funds” refer to the Fund named above.
THIS SAI IS NOT A PROSPECTUS AND IS AUTHORIZED FOR DISTRIBUTION TO PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS ONLY IF PRECEDED OR ACCOMPANIED BY THE PROSPECTUS OF THE FUND. DATED November 15, 2024 (THE PROSPECTUS), AS SUPPLEMENTED FROM TIME TO TIME, WHICH IS INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE. THIS SAI SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH SUCH PROSPECTUS, A COPY OF WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED WITHOUT CHARGE BY CONTACTING YOUR FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY OR CALLING THE FUND AT 1-866-666-1532.
The most recent annual report for the Fund, which includes the Fund’s audited financial statements for the period ended December 31, 2023, and unaudited semiannual report for the period ended June 30, 2024, is incorporated herein by reference. Copies of the Fund's current prospectus and annual and semiannual reports and future reports may be obtained without charge by writing or calling the Fund at the Fund’s transfer agent and registrar, Equiniti Trust Company, LLC (formerly known as American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC) ("Equiniti" or the "Transfer Agent") at P.O. Box 500, Newark, NJ 07101 or at the telephone number above. The Fund's current prospectus and most recent annual and semiannual reports are also available at www.columbiathreadneedleus.com. In the Fund's annual reports, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that materially affected the Fund’s performance during the last fiscal year covered by the report. The SAI, as well as the Fund’s most recent annual and semiannual reports are also available at columbiathreadneedleus.com.
A registration statement relating to these securities has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).
Table of Contents
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| 5 | |
| 6 | |
| 9 | |
| 9 | |
| 46 | |
| 77 | |
| 78 | |
| 80 | |
| 80 | |
| 82 | |
| 84 | |
| 85 | |
| 85 | |
| 85 | |
| 90 | |
| 90 | |
| 92 | |
| 92 | |
| 102 | |
| 104 | |
| 104 | |
| 107 | |
| 108 | |
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| 123 | |
| 127 | |
| 128 | |
| A-1 | |
| B-1 |
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
1
SAI PRIMER
The SAI is a part of the Fund's registration statement that is filed with the SEC. The registration statement includes the Fund's prospectus, the SAI and certain exhibits. The SAI, and any supplements to it, can be found online at columbiathreadneedleus.com and/or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
For purposes of any electronic version of this SAI, all references to websites, or universal resource locators (URLs), are intended to be inactive and are not meant to incorporate the contents of any such website or URL into this SAI, with the exception of the Fund's annual and semi-annual reports, as noted on the front cover of this SAI.
The SAI generally provides additional information about the Fund that is not required to be in the Fund's prospectus. The SAI expands discussions of certain matters described in the Fund's prospectus and provides certain additional information about the Fund that may be of interest to some investors. Among other things, the SAI provides information about:
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the Fund's investments;
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the Fund's investment adviser, investment subadviser(s) (if any) and other service providers, including roles and relationships of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, and conflicts of interest;
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the governance of the Fund;
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the Fund's brokerage practices; and
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the application of U.S. federal income tax laws.
Investors may find this information important and helpful. If you have any questions about the Fund, please call the Transfer Agent at 866.666.1532 or contact your financial intermediary.
Throughout this SAI, the term “financial intermediary” may refer, generally, to one or more of the selling agents and/or servicing agents that are authorized to sell and/or service shares of the Fund, which may include broker-dealers and financial advisors as well as firms that employ such broker-dealers and financial advisors, including, for example, brokerage firms, banks, investment advisers, third party administrators and other financial intermediaries.
Before reading the SAI, you should consult the prospectus for the Fund as well as the Glossary below, which defines certain of the terms used in the SAI. Capitalized terms used in this SAI and not otherwise defined have the meanings given them in the Fund’s prospectus and any related prospectus supplements.
Glossary
| 1933 Act |
Securities Act of 1933, as amended |
| 1934 Act |
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended |
| 1940 Act |
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended |
| Ameriprise Financial |
Ameriprise Financial, Inc. |
| Board |
The Fund’s Board of Directors |
| Business Day |
Any day on which the NYSE is open for business. A business day typically ends at the close of regular trading on the NYSE, usually at 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. If the NYSE is scheduled to close early, the business day will be considered to end as of the time of the NYSE’s scheduled close. The Fund will not treat an intraday unscheduled disruption in NYSE trading or an intraday unscheduled closing as a close of regular trading on the NYSE for these purposes and will price its shares as of the regularly scheduled closing time for that day (typically, 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the NAV of Fund shares may be determined at such other time or times (in addition to or in lieu of the time set forth above) as the Fund’s Board may approve or ratify. On holidays and other days when the NYSE is closed, the Fund's NAV is not calculated and the Fund does not accept buy or sell orders. However, the value of the Fund's assets may still be affected on such days to the extent that the Fund holds foreign securities that trade on days that foreign securities markets are open. |
| CEA |
Commodity Exchange Act |
| CFTC |
The United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission |
| Code |
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended |
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
2
| Codes of Ethics |
The codes of ethics adopted by the Fund, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC (the Investment Manager) and/or any sub- adviser, as applicable, pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act |
| Columbia Funds or Columbia Funds Complex |
The fund complex, including the Fund, that is comprised of the registered investment companies, including traditional mutual funds, closed-end funds, and ETFs, advised by the Investment Manager or its affiliates |
| Columbia Management |
Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC |
| Columbia Threadneedle Investments |
The global brand name of the Columbia and Threadneedle group of companies |
| Common Shares |
Shares of the Fund’s common stock |
| Custodian |
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. |
| DBRS |
Morningstar DBRS |
| Director(s) |
One or more of the Board’s Directors |
| Distributor |
ALPS Distributors, Inc. is the Distributor of Common Shares issued by the Fund solely in connection with the Fund's at-the-market offering. |
| FDIC |
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation |
| FHLMC |
The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation |
| Fitch |
Fitch Ratings, Inc. |
| FNMA |
Federal National Mortgage Association |
| GICS |
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®). GICS was developed by and/or is the exclusive property of MSCI, Inc. (MSCI®) and S&P Global Market Intelligence Inc. (S&P Global Market Intelligence). GICS is a service mark of MSCI and S&P Global Market Intelligence and has been licensed for use by the Investment Manager. Neither GICS, MSCI, nor S&P Global Market Intelligence are affiliated with the Fund, the Investment Manager or any Columbia entity. |
| GNMA |
Government National Mortgage Association |
| Independent Directors |
The Directors of the Board who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund |
| Interested Director |
A Director of the Board who is currently deemed to be an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund |
| Investment Manager |
Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC |
| IRS |
United States Internal Revenue Service |
| JPMorgan |
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., the Fund's custodian |
| KBRA |
Kroll Bond Rating Agency |
| LIBOR |
London Inter-bank Offered Rate |
| Management Agreement |
The Management Agreement, as amended, between the Fund and the Investment Manager |
| Moody’s Ratings |
Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. |
| NRSRO |
Nationally recognized statistical ratings organization (for example, DBRS, Fitch, KBRA, Moody’s Ratings or S&P) |
| NYSE |
New York Stock Exchange |
| PwC |
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP |
| REIT |
Real estate investment trust |
| REMIC |
Real estate mortgage investment conduit |
| S&P |
S&P Global Ratings, a division of S&P Global Inc. (“Standard & Poor’s” and “S&P” are trademarks of S&P Global Inc. and have been licensed for use by the Investment Manager. The Columbia Funds are not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by S&P Global Ratings, and S&P Global Ratings makes no representation regarding the advisability of investing in the Columbia Funds.) |
| SAI |
This Statement of Additional Information, as amended and supplemented from time-to-time |
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
3
| SEC |
United States Securities and Exchange Commission |
| Shareholder/stockholder |
A holder of the Fund’s Common Shares |
| Shares |
Shares of the Fund |
| SOFR |
Secured Overnight Financing Rate |
| Transfer Agent |
Equiniti Trust Company, LLC (formerly known as American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC) |
| Transfer Agency and Registrar Agreement |
The Transfer Agency Agreement, as amended, between the Fund and the Transfer Agent |
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
4
ABOUT THE FUND
The Fund is a closed-end management investment company registered under the 1940 Act and located at 290 Congress Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02210.
The Fund was organized as a Maryland corporation in 2009. The Fund’s Common Stock is listed primarily on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “STK.” The Fund’s common stock was first offered for sale on November 24, 2009. The offering of Fund shares is registered under the 1933 Act.
| Fund |
Fiscal Year End |
Prospectus Date |
Diversified* |
| Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
December 31 |
November 15, 2024 |
No |
*
A “diversified” Fund may not, with respect to 75% of its total assets, invest more than 5% of its total assets in securities of any one issuer or purchase more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer, except obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities and except securities of other investment companies. A “non-diversified” Fund may invest a greater percentage of its total assets in the securities of fewer issuers than a “diversified” fund, which increases the risk that a change in the value of any one investment held by the Fund could affect the overall value of the Fund more than it would affect that of a “diversified” fund holding a greater number of investments. Accordingly, a “non-diversified” Fund’s value will likely be more volatile than the value of a more diversified fund. The Fund does not consider futures or swaps central counterparties where the Fund has exposure to such central counterparties in the course of making investments in futures and securities, to be issuers.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
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ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT POLICIES
The investment objectives and policies of the Fund are set forth in the Prospectus. Certain additional investment information is set forth below. Defined terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Prospectus.
Unless otherwise noted in a Fund’s prospectus or this SAI, whenever an investment policy or limitation states a maximum percentage of a Fund’s assets that may be invested in any security or other asset, or sets forth a policy regarding an investment standard, compliance with such percentage limitation or standard will be determined solely at the time of the Fund’s acquisition of such security or asset (Time of Purchase Standard). Thus, a Fund may continue, subject to applicable law, to hold a security, even though it causes the Fund to exceed a percentage limitation or not meet a standard, because of post-acquisition changes, including fluctuation in the value of the Fund’s assets.
FUNDAMENTAL RESTRICTIONS
The Fund is subject to fundamental policies that place restrictions on certain types of investments. The Fund’s fundamental policies cannot be changed except by vote of a majority of its outstanding voting securities. Under these policies, the Fund may not:
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Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts, except to the extent permissible under applicable law and interpretations, as they may be amended from time to time, and except this shall not prevent the Fund from buying or selling options, futures contracts and foreign currency or from entering into forward currency contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments backed by, or whose value is derived from, physical commodities;
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Issue senior securities or borrow money, except as permitted by the 1940 Act or any rule thereunder, any SEC or SEC staff interpretations thereof or any exemptions therefrom which may be granted by the SEC;
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Make loans, except as permitted by the 1940 Act or any rule thereunder, any SEC or SEC staff interpretations thereof or any exemptions therefrom which may be granted by the SEC;
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Underwrite the securities of other issuers, except insofar as the Fund may be deemed an underwriter under the 1933 Act in disposing of a portfolio security or in connection with investments in other investment companies;
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Buy or sell real estate, unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments, except this shall not prevent the Fund from investing in securities or other instruments backed by real estate or securities of companies engaged in the real estate business or real estate investment trusts; and
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Invest 25% or more of its Managed Assets (as defined below), at market value, in the securities of issuers in any particular industry, except that the Fund will invest at least 25% of the value of its Managed Assets in technology and technology-related stocks (in which the Fund intends to concentrate) and may invest without limit in securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities, or government-sponsored enterprises, as described in the Fund’s prospectus, which may be amended from time to time.
“Managed Assets” means the net asset value of the Fund’s outstanding Common Shares plus any liquidation preference of any issued and outstanding shares of Fund preferred stock (“Preferred Shares”) and the principal amount of any borrowings used for leverage.
Certain of the Fund’s fundamental policies set forth above prohibit transactions “except as permitted by the 1940 Act or any rule thereunder, any SEC or SEC staff interpretations thereof or any exemptions therefrom which may be granted by the SEC.” The following discussion summarizes the flexibility that the Fund currently gains from these exceptions. To the extent the 1940 Act or the rules and regulations thereunder may, in the future, be amended to provide greater flexibility, or to the extent the SEC may in the future grant exemptive relief providing greater flexibility, the Fund will be able to use that flexibility without seeking shareholder approval of its fundamental policies.
Issuing senior securities — A “senior security” is an obligation with respect to the earnings or assets of a company that takes precedence over the claims of that company’s common stock with respect to the same earnings or assets. The 1940 Act limits a closed-end fund’s issuance of senior securities, but Rule 18f-4 provides relief from that prohibition as to certain transactions that could be considered issuances of senior securities, provided that the Fund complies with its conditions. The exception in the fundamental policy allows the Fund to operate in accordance with Rule 18f-4.
Borrowing money — The 1940 Act permits the Fund to borrow up to 33 1/3% of its Managed Assets, plus an additional 5% of its Managed Assets for temporary purposes. The Fund's compliance with its policy on borrowing is not determined by applying the Time of Purchase Standard.
Making loans — The 1940 Act generally prohibits the Fund from making loans to affiliated persons but does not otherwise restrict the Fund’s ability to make loans.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
6
Under the 1940 Act, the Fund’s fundamental policies may not be changed without the approval of the holders of a “majority of the outstanding” Common Shares and, if issued, Preferred Shares voting together as a single class, and of the holders of a “majority of the outstanding” Preferred Shares voting as a separate class. When used with respect to particular shares of the Fund, a “majority of the outstanding” shares means the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares present at a stockholder meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares are present at the meeting or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund.
The Fund’s investment objectives are nonfundamental, and may be changed by the Fund’s Board without approval of the Fund’s holders of Common Shares (“Common Stockholders”). However, the Fund will provide stockholders at least 60 days’ notice of any change to its investment objectives.
Names Rule Policy
To the extent the Fund is subject to Rule 35d-1 under the 1940 Act (the Names Rule) and does not otherwise have a fundamental policy in place to comply with the Names Rule, such Fund has adopted the following non-fundamental policy: Shareholders will receive at least 60 days’ notice of any change to the Fund’s investment objective or principal investment strategies made in order to comply with the Names Rule. The notice will be provided in plain English in a separate written document, and will contain the following prominent statement or similar statement in bold-face type: “Important Notice Regarding Change in Investment Policy.” This statement will appear on both the notice and the envelope in which it is delivered, unless it is delivered separately from other communications to investors, in which case the statement will appear either on the notice or the envelope in which the notice is delivered. A Fund subject to a fundamental policy in place to comply with the Names Rule will disclose in the More Information About the Fund section of its prospectus that its 80% policy cannot be changed without shareholder approval.
To the extent that the Fund counts derivatives towards compliance with its 80% policy, such instruments will be valued based on their market value or fair value (determined in accordance with the Fund’s valuation procedures) or, when the adviser determines that the notional value of such instruments is a more appropriate measure of the Fund’s exposure to economic characteristics of investments that are consistent with the Fund’s 80% policy, at such notional value.
For temporary defensive purposes in response to adverse market, economic, political or other conditions, the Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in cash or cash equivalents, including, but not limited to, prime commercial paper, bank certificates of deposit, bankers’ acceptances, fixed-time deposits or repurchase agreements for such securities, and securities of the U.S. Government and its agencies and instrumentalities, and government-sponsored enterprises, as well as cash and cash equivalents denominated in foreign currencies. Fixed time deposits, unlike negotiable certificates of deposit, generally do not have a market and may be subject to penalties for early withdrawal of funds. During periods when the Fund has taken such a defensive position, it may not be achieving its investment objectives.
During its last three fiscal years, the Fund concentrated its investments (invested at least 25% of its Managed Assets) in technology and technology-related stocks, but did not: issue senior securities; borrow money; underwrite securities; purchase or sell real estate, commodities, or commodity contracts; or make money loans.
Non-fundamental Policies
The following non-fundamental policies may be changed by the Board at any time and may be in addition to those described in the Fund's prospectus.
Investment in Illiquid Investments
The Fund may not acquire any illiquid investment if, immediately after the acquisition, the Fund would have invested more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid investments that are assets. For these purposes, an “illiquid investment” means any investment that the Fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment.
Investment in Other Investment Companies
The Funds may not purchase securities of other investment companies except to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder and any applicable exemptive relief.
Summary of 1940 Act Restrictions on Certain Activities
Certain of the Fund’s policies set forth above prohibit transactions “except to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder and any applicable exemptive relief.” The following discussion summarizes the flexibility that the Fund currently gains from these exceptions. To the extent the 1940 Act or the rules and regulations thereunder may, in the future, be amended to provide greater flexibility, or to the extent the SEC may in the future grant exemptive relief providing greater flexibility, the Fund will be able to use that flexibility without seeking shareholder approval of its fundamental policies.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
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Investing in other investment companies – The 1940 Act, in summary, provides that a fund generally may not: (i) purchase more than 3% of the outstanding voting stock of another investment company; (ii) purchase securities issued by another investment company in an amount representing more than 5% of the investing fund’s total assets; or (iii) purchase securities issued by investment companies that in the aggregate represent more than 10% of the acquiring fund’s total assets (the Statutory Limits). Affiliated funds-of-funds (i.e., those funds that invest in other funds within the same fund family), with respect to investments in such affiliated underlying funds, are not subject to the Statutory Limits and, therefore, may generally invest in affiliated underlying funds without restriction. If shares of the Fund are purchased by an affiliated fund beyond the Statutory Limits in reliance on Section 12(d)(1)(G) of the 1940 Act, for so long as shares of the Fund are held by such other affiliated fund beyond the Statutory Limits, the Fund will not purchase securities of a registered open-end investment company or registered unit investment trust in reliance on Section 12(d)(1)(F) or Section 12(d)(1)(G) of the 1940 Act. An additional exception to these limitations applies to investments in money market open-end funds. Rule 12d1-4 also permits the Funds to invest in other investment companies beyond the Statutory Limits, subject to certain conditions. In addition, under Rule 12d1-4, if shares of the Fund are purchased by another fund beyond the Statutory Limits, and the Fund purchases shares of another investment company, the Fund generally will not be able to make new investments in other funds, including private funds exempt from the definition of “investment company” under the 1940 Act by Sections 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) thereof, if, as a result of such investment, more than 10% of the Fund’s assets would be invested in other funds. In addition, an affiliated fund-of-funds’ investment in unaffiliated funds may be made only pursuant to Rule 12d1-4.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
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ABOUT FUND INVESTMENTS
The Fund’s investment objective, principal investment strategies and related principal risks are discussed in the Fund’s prospectus, as may be supplemented from time to time. The Fund’s prospectus identifies the types of securities in which the Fund invests principally and summarizes the principal risks to the Fund’s portfolio as a whole associated with such investments. Unless otherwise indicated in the prospectus or this SAI, the investment objective and policies of the Fund may be changed without shareholder approval.
To the extent that a type of security identified in the table below is not described in the Fund’s prospectus (or as a sub-category of such security type in this SAI), the Fund generally invests in such security type, if at all, as part of its non-principal investment strategies.
Information about individual types of securities (including certain of their associated risks) in which the Fund may invest is set forth below. The Fund may but is not required to invest in any or all of the types of securities listed below to the extent not prohibited by its fundamental and non-fundamental investment policies. The information in the table below does not describe every type of investment, technique or risk to which the Fund may be exposed.
Certain Investment Activity Limits. The overall investment and other activities of the Investment Manager and its affiliates may limit the investment opportunities for the Fund in certain markets, industries or transactions or in individual issuers where limitations are imposed upon the aggregate amount of investment by the Fund and other accounts managed by the Investment Manager and accounts of its affiliates (collectively, affiliated investors). From time to time, the Fund’s activities also may be restricted because of regulatory restrictions applicable to the Investment Manager and its affiliates and/or because of their internal policies. See Investment Management and Other Services – Other Roles and Relationships of Ameriprise Financial and its Affiliates – Certain Conflicts of Interest.
Temporary Defensive Positions. The Fund may from time to time take temporary defensive investment positions that may be inconsistent with the Fund’s principal investment strategies in attempting to respond to adverse market, economic, political, social or other conditions, including, without limitation investing some or all of its assets in money market instruments or shares of affiliated or unaffiliated government money market funds or holding some or all of its assets in cash or cash equivalents.
Other Strategic and Investment Measures. The Fund may also from time to time take temporary portfolio positions that may or may not be consistent with the Fund’s principal investment strategies in attempting to respond to adverse market, economic, political, social or other conditions, including, without limitation, investing in derivatives, such as forward contracts, futures contracts, options, structured investments and swaps, for various purposes, including among others, investing in particular derivatives in seeking to reduce investment exposure, or in seeking to achieve indirect investment exposure, to a sector, country, region or currency where the Investment Manager (or Fund subadviser, if applicable) believes such defensive positioning is appropriate. The Fund may do so without limit and for as long a period as deemed necessary, when the Investment Manager or the Fund’s subadviser, if applicable: (i) believes that market conditions are not favorable for profitable investing or to avoid losses, (ii) is unable to locate favorable investment opportunities; or (iii) determines that a temporary defensive position is advisable or necessary, or for other reasons. While the Fund is so positioned, derivatives could comprise a substantial portion of the Fund’s investments and the Fund may not achieve its investment objective. Investing in this manner may adversely affect Fund performance. During these times, the portfolio managers may make frequent portfolio holding changes, which could result in increased trading expenses and taxes and decreased Fund performance.
Types of Investments
| Type of Investment |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund |
| Asset-Backed Securities |
Yes |
| Bank Obligations (Domestic and Foreign) |
Yes |
| Collateralized Bond Obligations |
Yes |
| Commercial Paper |
Yes |
| Common Stock |
Yes |
| Convertible Securities |
Yes |
| Corporate Debt Securities |
Yes |
| Custody Receipts and Trust Certificates |
Yes |
| Debt Obligations |
Yes |
| Depositary Receipts |
Yes |
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
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| Type of Investment |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund |
| Derivatives |
Yes |
| Dollar Rolls |
Yes |
| Exchange-Traded Notes |
Yes |
| Foreign Currency Transactions |
Yes |
| Foreign Securities |
Yes |
| Guaranteed Investment Contracts (Funding Agreements) |
Yes |
| High-Yield Securities |
Yes |
| Illiquid Investments |
Yes |
| Inflation Protected Securities |
Yes |
| Initial Public Offerings |
Yes |
| Inverse Floaters |
Yes |
| Investment in Other Investment Companies (Including ETFs) |
Yes |
| Listed Private Equity Funds |
Yes |
| Money Market Instruments |
Yes |
| Mortgage-Backed Securities |
Yes |
| Municipal Securities |
Yes |
| Participation Interests |
Yes |
| Partnership Securities |
Yes |
| Preferred Stock |
Yes |
| Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities |
Yes |
| Real Estate Investment Trusts |
Yes |
| Repurchase Agreements |
Yes |
| Reverse Repurchase Agreements |
Yes |
| Short Sales |
Yes |
| Sovereign Debt |
Yes |
| Standby Commitments |
Yes |
| U.S. Government and Related Obligations |
Yes |
| Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations |
Yes |
| Warrants and Rights |
Yes |
Asset-Backed Securities
Asset-backed securities represent interests in, or debt instruments that are backed by, pools of various types of assets that generate cash payments generally over fixed periods of time, such as, among others, motor vehicle installment sales, contracts, installment loan contracts, leases of various types of real and personal property, and receivables from revolving (credit card) agreements. Such securities entitle the security holders to receive distributions (i.e., principal and interest) that are tied to the payments made by the borrower on the underlying assets (less fees paid to the originator, servicer, or other parties, and fees paid for credit enhancement), so that the payments made on the underlying assets effectively pass through to such security holders. Asset-backed securities typically are created by an originator of loans or owner of accounts receivable that sells such underlying assets to a special purpose entity in a process called a securitization. The special purpose entity issues securities that are backed by the payments on the underlying assets, and have a minimum denomination and specific term. Asset-backed securities may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate obligations or as zero-coupon, pay-in-kind and step-coupon securities and may be privately placed or publicly offered. Collateralized loan obligations (CLOs) and collateralized debt obligations (CDOs) are examples of asset-backed securities. See Types of Investments – Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations, – Debt Obligations – Zero-Coupon, Pay-in-Kind and Step-Coupon Securities and – Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities for more information.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with asset-backed securities include: Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Liquidity Risk and Prepayment and Extension Risk.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
10
Bank Obligations (Domestic and Foreign)
Bank obligations include certificates of deposit, bankers’ acceptances, time deposits and promissory notes that earn a specified rate of return and may be issued by (i) a domestic branch of a domestic bank, (ii) a foreign branch of a domestic bank, (iii) a domestic branch of a foreign bank or (iv) a foreign branch of a foreign bank. Bank obligations may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate obligations. See Types of Investments – Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations for more information.
Certificates of deposit, or so-called CDs, typically are interest-bearing debt instruments issued by banks and have maturities ranging from a few weeks to several years. Yankee dollar certificates of deposit are negotiable CDs issued in the United States by branches and agencies of foreign banks. Eurodollar certificates of deposit are CDs issued by foreign banks with interest and principal paid in U.S. dollars. Eurodollar and Yankee Dollar CDs typically have maturities of less than two years and have interest rates that typically are pegged to a reference rate, such as LIBOR or SOFR. Bankers’ acceptances are time drafts drawn on and accepted by banks, are a customary means of effecting payment for merchandise sold in import-export transactions and are a general source of financing. A time deposit can be either a savings account or CD that is an obligation of a financial institution for a fixed term. Typically, there are penalties for early withdrawals of time deposits. Promissory notes are written commitments of the maker to pay the payee a specified sum of money either on demand or at a fixed or determinable future date, with or without interest.
Bank investment contracts are issued by banks. Pursuant to such contracts, the Fund may make cash contributions to a deposit fund of a bank. The bank then credits to the Fund payments at floating or fixed interest rates. The Fund also may hold funds on deposit with its custodian for temporary purposes.
Certain bank obligations, such as some CDs, are insured by the FDIC up to certain specified limits. Many other bank obligations, however, are neither guaranteed nor insured by the FDIC or the U.S. Government. These bank obligations are “backed” only by the creditworthiness of the issuing bank or parent financial institution. Domestic and foreign banks are subject to different governmental regulation. Accordingly, certain obligations of foreign banks, including Eurodollar and Yankee dollar obligations, involve different and/or heightened investment risks than those affecting obligations of domestic banks, including, among others, the possibilities that: (i) their liquidity could be impaired because of political or economic developments; (ii) the obligations may be less marketable than comparable obligations of domestic banks; (iii) a foreign jurisdiction might impose withholding and other taxes at high levels on interest income; (iv) foreign deposits may be seized or nationalized; (v) foreign governmental restrictions such as exchange controls may be imposed, which could adversely affect the payment of principal and/or interest on those obligations; (vi) there may be less publicly available information concerning foreign banks issuing the obligations; and (vii) the reserve requirements and accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and requirements applicable to foreign banks may differ (including, less stringent) from those applicable to domestic banks. Foreign banks generally are not subject to examination by any U.S. Government agency or instrumentality. See Types of Investments – Foreign Securities.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with bank obligations include: Counterparty Risk, Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk, Liquidity Risk, and Prepayment and Extension Risk.
Collateralized Bond Obligations
Collateralized bond obligations (CBOs) are investment grade bonds backed by a pool of bonds, which may include junk bonds (which are considered speculative investments). CBOs are similar in concept to collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs), but differ in that CBOs represent different degrees of credit quality rather than different maturities. (See Types of Investments – Mortgage-Backed Securities and – Asset-Backed Securities.) CBOs are often privately offered and sold, and thus not registered under the federal securities laws.
Underwriters of CBOs package a large and diversified pool of high-risk, high-yield junk bonds, which is then structured into “tranches.” Typically, the first tranche represents a senior claim on collateral and pays the lowest interest rate; the second tranche is junior to the first tranche and therefore subject to greater risk and pays a higher rate; the third tranche is junior to both the first and second tranche, represents the lowest credit quality and instead of receiving a fixed interest rate receives the residual interest payments — money that is left over after the higher tranches have been paid. CBOs, like CMOs, are substantially overcollateralized and this, plus the diversification of the pool backing them, may earn certain of the tranches investment-grade bond ratings. Holders of third-tranche CBOs stand to earn higher or lower yields depending on the rate of defaults in the collateral pool. See Types of Investments – High-Yield Securities.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with CBOs include: Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Liquidity Risk, High-Yield Securities Risk and Prepayment and Extension Risk.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
11
Commercial Paper
Commercial paper is a short-term debt obligation, usually sold on a discount basis, with a maturity ranging from 2 to 270 days issued by banks, corporations and other borrowers. It is sold to investors with temporary idle cash as a way to increase returns on a short-term basis. These instruments are generally unsecured, which increases the credit risk associated with this type of investment. See Types of Investments — Debt Obligations and — Illiquid Investments. See Appendix A for a discussion of securities ratings.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with commercial paper include: Credit Risk and Liquidity Risk.
Common Stock
Common stock represents a unit of equity ownership of a corporation. Owners typically are entitled to vote on the selection of directors and other important corporate governance matters, and to receive dividend payments, if any, on their holdings. However, ownership of common stock does not entitle owners to participate in the day-to-day operations of the corporation. Common stocks of domestic and foreign public corporations can be listed, and their shares traded, on domestic stock exchanges, such as the NYSE or the NASDAQ Stock Market. Domestic and foreign corporations also may have their shares traded on foreign exchanges, such as the London Stock Exchange or Tokyo Stock Exchange. See Types of Investments – Foreign Securities. Common stock may be privately placed or publicly offered. The price of common stock is generally determined by corporate earnings, type of products or services offered, projected growth rates, experience of management, liquidity, and market conditions generally. In the event that a corporation declares bankruptcy or is liquidated, the claims of secured and unsecured creditors and owners of bonds and preferred stock take precedence over the claims of those who own common stock. See Types of Investments – Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities, – Preferred Stock and – Convertible Securities for more information.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with common stock include: Issuer Risk and Market Risk.
Contingent Value Rights. A contingent value right (CVR) gives the holder the right to receive an amount, which may be fixed or determined by a formula, in the event that a specified corporate action or other business event or trigger occurs (or fails to occur) during the term of the CVR. CVRs may be awarded to investors in the context of a corporate acquisition or major restructuring, such as a reorganization pursuant to Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code or other reorganization. For example, investors in an acquired or reorganized company may receive CVRs that enable the investor to receive additional shares of the acquiring company in the event that the acquiring company’s share price falls below a certain level by a specified date, or to receive cash payments and/or securities in the event of a future sale or liquidation event involving the company by a specified date. CVRs generally do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the issuer and do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuer.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with CVRs include: Contingent Value Rights Risk, Counterparty Risk, Credit Risk, Liquidity Risk, and Valuation Risk.
Convertible Securities
Convertible securities include bonds, debentures, notes, preferred stocks or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio or predetermined price (the conversion price). As such, convertible securities combine the investment characteristics of debt securities and equity securities. A holder of convertible securities is entitled to receive the income of a bond, debenture or note or the dividend of a preferred stock until the conversion privilege is exercised. The market value of convertible securities generally is a function of, among other factors, interest rates, the rates of return of similar nonconvertible securities and the financial strength of the issuer. The market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates rise and, conversely, to rise as interest rates decline. However, a convertible security’s market value tends to reflect the market price of the common stock of the issuing company when that stock price approaches or is greater than its conversion price. As the market price of the underlying common stock declines, the price of the convertible security tends to be influenced more by the rate of return of the convertible security. Because both interest rate and common stock’s market movements can influence their value, convertible securities generally are not as sensitive to changes in interest rates as similar non-convertible debt securities nor generally as sensitive to changes in share price as the underlying common stock. Convertible securities may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate obligations or as zero-coupon, pay-in-kind and step-coupon securities and may be privately placed or publicly offered. See Types of Investments — Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations, — Debt Obligations - Zero-Coupon, Pay-in-Kind and Step-Coupon Securities, — Common Stock, — Corporate Debt Securities and — Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities for more information.
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Certain convertible securities may have a mandatory conversion feature, pursuant to which the securities convert automatically into common stock or other equity securities (of the same or a different issuer) at a specified date and at a specified exchange ratio. Certain convertible securities may be convertible at the option of the issuer, which may require a holder to convert the security into the underlying common stock, even at times when the value of the underlying common stock or other equity security has declined substantially. In addition, some convertible securities may be rated below investment grade or may not be rated and, therefore, may be considered speculative investments. Companies that issue convertible securities frequently are small- and mid-capitalization companies and, accordingly, carry the risks associated with such companies. In addition, the credit rating of a company’s convertible securities generally is lower than that of its conventional debt securities. Convertible securities are senior to equity securities and have a claim to the assets of an issuer prior to the holders of the issuer’s common stock in the event of liquidation but generally are subordinate to similar non-convertible debt securities of the same issuer. Some convertible securities are particularly sensitive to changes in interest rates when their predetermined conversion price is much higher than the price for the issuing company’s common stock.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with convertible securities include: Convertible Securities Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk, Market Risk, Prepayment and Extension Risk, and Reinvestment Risk.
Corporate Debt Securities
Corporate debt securities are long and short term fixed income securities typically issued by businesses to finance their operations. Corporate debt securities are issued by public or private companies, as distinct from debt securities issued by a government or its agencies. The issuer of a corporate debt security often has a contractual obligation to pay interest at a stated rate on specific dates and to repay principal periodically or on a specified maturity date. Corporate debt securities typically have four distinguishing features: (1) they are taxable; (2) they have a par value of $1,000; (3) they have a term maturity, which means they come due at a specified time period; and (4) many are traded on major securities exchanges. Notes, bonds, debentures and commercial paper are the most common types of corporate debt securities, with the primary difference being their interest rates, maturity dates and secured or unsecured status. Commercial paper has the shortest term and usually is unsecured, as are debentures. The broad category of corporate debt securities includes debt issued by domestic or foreign companies of all kinds, including those with small-, mid- and large-capitalizations. The category also includes bank loans, as well as assignments, participations and other interests in bank loans. Corporate debt securities may be rated investment grade or below investment grade and may be structured as fixed-, variable or floating-rate obligations or as zero-coupon, pay-in-kind and step-coupon securities and may be privately placed or publicly offered. They may also be senior or subordinated obligations. See Appendix A for a discussion of securities ratings. See Types of Investments — Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations, — Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities, — Debt Obligations, — Commercial Paper and — High-Yield Securities for more information.
Extendible commercial notes (ECNs) are very similar to commercial paper except that, with ECNs, the issuer has the option to extend the notes’ maturity. ECNs are issued at a discount rate, with an initial redemption of not more than 90 days from the date of issue. If ECNs are not redeemed by the issuer on the initial redemption date, the issuer will pay a premium (step-up) rate based on the ECN’s credit rating at the time.
Because of the wide range of types and maturities of corporate debt securities, as well as the range of creditworthiness of issuers, corporate debt securities can have widely varying risk/return profiles. For example, commercial paper issued by a large established domestic corporation that is rated by an NRSRO as investment grade may have a relatively modest return on principal but present relatively limited risk. On the other hand, a long-term corporate note issued, for example, by a small foreign corporation from an emerging market country that has not been rated by an NRSRO may have the potential for relatively large returns on principal but carries a relatively high degree of risk.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with corporate debt securities include: Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk, High-Yield Securities Risk, Prepayment and Extension Risk and Reinvestment Risk.
Custody Receipts and Trust Certificates
Custody receipts and trust certificates are derivative products that evidence direct ownership in a pool of securities. Typically, a sponsor will deposit a pool of securities with a custodian in exchange for custody receipts evidencing interests in those securities. The sponsor generally then will sell the custody receipts or trust certificates in negotiated transactions at varying prices. Each custody receipt or trust certificate evidences the individual securities in the pool and the holder of a custody receipt or trust certificate generally will have all the rights and privileges of owners of those securities.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with custody receipts and trust certificates include: Liquidity Risk and Counterparty Risk. In addition, custody receipts and trust certificates generally are subject to the same risks as the securities evidenced by the receipts or certificates.
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Debt Obligations
Many different types of debt obligations exist (for example, bills, bonds, and notes). Issuers of debt obligations have a contractual obligation to pay interest at a fixed, variable or floating rate on specified dates and to repay principal by a specified maturity date. Certain debt obligations (usually intermediate and long-term bonds) have provisions that allow the issuer to redeem or “call” a bond before its maturity. Issuers are most likely to call these securities during periods of falling interest rates. When this happens, an investor may have to replace these securities with lower yielding securities, which could result in a lower return.
The market value of debt obligations is affected primarily by changes in prevailing interest rates, changes in the economic environment and the issuer’s perceived ability to repay the debt. The market value of a debt obligation generally reacts inversely to interest rate changes. When prevailing interest rates decline, the market value of the bond usually rises, and when prevailing interest rates rise, the market value of the bond usually declines.
In general, the longer the maturity of a debt obligation, the higher its yield and the greater the sensitivity to changes in interest rates. Conversely, the shorter the maturity, the lower the yield and the lower the sensitivity to changes in interest rates.
As noted, the values of debt obligations also may be affected by changes in the credit rating or financial condition of their issuers. Generally, the lower the quality rating of a security, the higher the degree of risk as to the payment of interest and return of principal. To compensate investors for taking on such increased risk, those issuers deemed to be less creditworthy generally must offer their investors higher interest rates than do issuers with better credit ratings. See Types of Investments — Corporate Debt Securities, — High-Yield Securities and — Preferred Stock - Trust-Preferred Securities for more information.
Event-Linked Instruments/Catastrophe Bonds. The Fund may obtain event-linked exposure by investing in “event-linked bonds” or “event-linked swaps” or by implementing “event-linked strategies.” Event-linked exposure results in gains or losses that typically are contingent on, or formulaically related to, defined trigger events. Examples of trigger events include hurricanes, earthquakes, weather-related phenomena or statistics relating to such events. Some event-linked bonds are commonly referred to as “catastrophe bonds.” If a trigger event occurs, the principal amount of the bond is reduced (potentially to zero), and the Fund may lose all or a portion of its entire principal invested in the bond or the entire notional amount on a swap.
Stripped Securities. Stripped securities are the separate income or principal payments of a debt security and evidence ownership in either the future interest or principal payments on an instrument. There are many different types and variations of stripped securities. For example, Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal Securities (STRIPS) can be component parts of a U.S. Treasury security where the principal and interest components are traded independently through DTC, a clearing agency registered pursuant to Section 17A of the 1934 Act and created to hold securities for its participants, and to facilitate the clearance and settlement of securities transactions between participants through electronic computerized book-entries, thereby eliminating the need for physical movement of certificates. Treasury Investor Growth Receipts (TIGERs) are U.S. Treasury securities stripped by brokers. Stripped mortgage-backed securities (SMBS) can also be issued by the U.S. Government or its agencies. Stripped securities may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate obligations.
SMBS usually are structured with two or more classes that receive different proportions of the interest and principal distributions from a pool of mortgage-backed assets. Common types of SMBS will be structured so that one class receives some of the interest and most of the principal from the mortgage-backed assets, while another class receives most of the interest and the remainder of the principal.
See Types of Investments – Mortgage-Backed Securities, – Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations and – U.S. Government and Related Obligations for more information.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with stripped securities include: Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Liquidity Risk, Prepayment and Extension Risk, and Stripped Securities Risk.
When-Issued, Delayed Delivery and Forward Commitment Transactions. When-issued, delayed delivery and forward commitment transactions involve the purchase or sale of securities by the Fund, with payment and delivery taking place in the future after the customary settlement period for that type of security. Normally, the settlement date occurs within 45 days of the purchase although in some cases settlement may take longer. The investor does not pay for the securities or receive dividends or interest on them until the contractual settlement date. The payment obligation and, if applicable, the interest rate that will be received on the securities, are fixed at the time that the Fund agrees to purchase the securities. The Fund generally will enter into when-issued, delayed delivery and forward commitment transactions only with the intention of completing such transactions.
However, the Fund’s portfolio managers may determine not to complete a transaction if deemed appropriate to close out the transaction prior to its completion. In such cases, the Fund may realize short-term gains or losses. See Types of Investments — Asset-Backed Securities and — Mortgage-Backed Securities for more information.
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To Be Announced Securities (TBAs). As with other delayed delivery transactions, a seller agrees to issue a TBA security at a future date. However, the seller does not specify the particular securities to be delivered. Instead, the Fund agrees to accept any security that meets specified terms. For example, in a TBA mortgage-backed security transaction, the Fund and the seller would agree upon the issuer, interest rate and terms of the underlying mortgages. The seller would not identify the specific underlying mortgages until it issues the security. TBA mortgage-backed securities increase market risks because the underlying mortgages may be less favorable than anticipated by the Fund. See Types of Investments — Asset-Backed Securities and — Mortgage-Backed Securities for more information. In order to better define contractual rights and to secure rights that will help the Fund mitigate their counterparty risk, TBA transactions may be entered into by the Fund under Master Securities Forward Transaction Agreements (each, an MSFTA). An MSFTA typically contains, among other things, collateral posting terms and netting provisions in the event of default and/or termination event. The collateral requirements are typically calculated by netting the mark-to-market amount for each transaction under such agreement and comparing that amount to the value of the collateral currently pledged by the fund and the counterparty. To the extent amounts due to the Fund are not fully collateralized, contractually or otherwise, the Fund bears the risk of loss from counterparty non-performance.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with when-issued, delayed delivery and forward commitment transactions include: Counterparty Risk, Credit Risk, and Market Risk.
Zero-Coupon, Pay-in-Kind and Step-Coupon Securities. Zero-coupon, pay-in-kind and step-coupon securities are types of debt instruments that do not necessarily make payments of interest in fixed amounts or at fixed intervals. Asset-backed securities, convertible securities, corporate debt securities, foreign securities, high-yield securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal securities, participation interests, stripped securities, U.S. Government and related obligations and other types of debt instruments may be structured as zero-coupon, pay-in-kind and step-coupon securities.
Zero-coupon securities do not pay interest on a current basis but instead accrue interest over the life of the security. These securities include, among others, zero-coupon bonds, which either may be issued at a discount by a corporation or government entity or may be created by a brokerage firm when it strips the coupons from a bond or note and then sells the bond or note and the coupon separately. This technique is used frequently with U.S. Treasury bonds, and zero-coupon securities are marketed under such names as CATS (Certificate of Accrual on Treasury Securities), TIGERs or STRIPS. Zero-coupon bonds also are issued by municipalities. Buying a municipal zero-coupon bond frees its purchaser of the obligation to pay regular federal income tax on imputed interest, since the interest is exempt for regular federal income tax purposes. Zero-coupon certificates of deposit and zero-coupon mortgages are generally structured in the same fashion as zero-coupon bonds; the certificate of deposit holder or mortgage holder receives face value at maturity and no payments until then.
Pay-in-kind securities normally give the issuer an option to pay cash at a coupon payment date or to give the holder of the security a similar security with the same coupon rate and a face value equal to the amount of the coupon payment that would have been made.
Step-coupon securities trade at a discount from their face value and pay coupon interest that gradually increases over time. The coupon rate is paid according to a schedule for a series of periods, typically lower for an initial period and then increasing to a higher coupon rate thereafter. The discount from the face amount or par value depends on the time remaining until cash payments begin, prevailing interest rates, liquidity of the security and the perceived credit quality of the issue.
Zero-coupon, pay-in-kind and step-coupon securities holders generally have substantially all the rights and privileges of holders of the underlying coupon obligations or principal obligations. Holders of these securities typically have the right upon default on the underlying coupon obligations or principal obligations to proceed directly and individually against the issuer and are not required to act in concert with other holders of such securities.
See Appendix A for a discussion of securities ratings. See Types of Investments — Asset-Backed Securities and — Mortgage-Backed Securities for more information.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with zero-coupon, step-coupon, and pay-in-kind securities include: Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk and Zero-Coupon Bonds Risk.
Determining Investment Grade for Purposes of Investment Policies. Unless otherwise stated in the Fund’s prospectus, when determining, under the Fund’s investment policies, whether a debt instrument is investment grade or below investment grade for purposes of purchase by the Fund, the Fund will apply a particular credit quality rating methodology, as described within the Fund’s shareholder reports, when available. These methodologies typically make use of credit quality ratings assigned by a third-party rating agency or agencies, when available. Credit quality ratings assigned by a rating agency are subjective opinions, not statements of fact, and are subject to change, including daily. Credit quality ratings apply to the Fund’s debt instrument investments and not the Fund itself.
Ratings limitations under the Fund’s investment policies are applied at the time of purchase by the Fund. Subsequent to purchase, a debt instrument may cease to be rated by a rating agency or its rating may be reduced by a rating agency(ies) below the minimum required for purchase by the Fund. Neither event will require the sale of such debt instrument, but it may be a
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factor in considering whether to continue to hold the instrument. Unless otherwise stated in the Fund’s prospectus or in this SAI, the Fund may invest in debt instruments that are not rated by a rating agency. When a debt instrument is not rated by a rating agency, the Investment Manager or, as applicable, the Fund subadviser determines, at the time of purchase, whether such debt instrument is of investment grade or below investment grade (e.g., junk bond) quality. The Fund’s debt instrument holdings that are not rated by a rating agency are typically referred to as “Not Rated” within the Fund’s shareholder reports.
See Appendix A for a discussion of securities ratings.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with debt obligations include: Confidential Information Access Risk, Credit Risk, Highly Leveraged Transactions Risk, Impairment of Collateral Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk, Liquidity Risk, Prepayment and Extension Risk and Reinvestment Risk.
Determining Average Maturity. When determining the average maturity of the Fund's portfolio, the Fund may use the effective maturity of a portfolio security by, among other things, adjusting for interest rate reset dates, call dates or “put” dates.
Depositary Receipts
See Types of Investments – Foreign Securities below.
Derivatives
General
Derivatives are financial instruments whose values are based on (or “derived” from) traditional securities (such as a stock or a bond), assets (such as a commodity, like gold), reference rates (such as LIBOR and SOFR), market indices (such as the S&P 500® Index) or customized baskets of securities or instruments. Some forms of derivatives, such as exchange-traded futures and options on securities, commodities, or indices, are traded on regulated exchanges. These types of derivatives are standardized contracts that can easily be bought and sold, and whose market values are determined and published daily. Non-standardized derivatives, on the other hand, tend to be more specialized or complex, and may be harder to value. Many derivative instruments often require little or no initial payment and therefore often create inherent economic leverage. Derivatives, when used properly, can enhance returns and be useful in hedging portfolios and managing risk. Some common types of derivatives include futures; options; options on futures; forward foreign currency exchange contracts; forward contracts on securities and securities indices; linked securities and structured products; CMOs; swap agreements and swaptions.
The Fund may use derivatives for a variety of reasons, including, for example: (i) to enhance its return; (ii) to attempt to protect against possible unfavorable changes in the market value of securities held in or to be purchased for its portfolio resulting from securities markets or currency exchange rate fluctuations (i.e., to hedge); (iii) to protect its unrealized gains reflected in the value of its portfolio securities; (iv) to facilitate the sale of such securities for investment purposes; (v) to reduce transaction costs; (vi) to manage the effective maturity or duration of its portfolio; and/or (vii) to maintain cash reserves while remaining fully invested.
Certain Funds may employ portfolio margining with respect to derivatives investments, which creates leverage in the Fund’s portfolio (subjecting the Fund to Leverage Risk). Portfolio margining is a methodology that computes margin requirements for an account based on the greatest projected net loss of all positions in a product class or group, and uses computer modeling to perform risk analysis using multiple pricing scenarios. The pricing scenarios are designed to measure the theoretical loss of the positions, given changes in the underlying price and implied volatility inputs to the model. Accordingly, the margin required is based on the greatest loss that would be incurred in a portfolio if the value of its components move up or down by a predetermined amount.
The Fund may use any or all of the above investment techniques and may purchase different types of derivative instruments at any time and in any combination. The use of derivatives is a function of numerous variables, including market conditions. See also Types of Investments — Warrants and Rights and — Debt Obligations - When Issued, Delayed Delivery and Forward Commitment Transactions.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with transactions in derivatives (including the derivatives instruments discussed below) include: Counterparty Risk, Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Leverage Risk, Liquidity Risk, Market Risk, Derivatives Risk, Derivatives Risk – Forward Contracts Risk, Derivatives Risk – Futures Contracts Risk, Derivatives Risk – Inverse Floaters Risk, Derivatives Risk – Options Risk, Derivatives Risk – Structured Investments Risk and/or Derivatives Risk – Swaps Risk.
Structured Investments (Indexed or Linked Securities)
General. Indexed or linked securities, also often referred to as “structured products,” are instruments that may have varying combinations of equity and debt characteristics. These instruments are structured to recast the investment characteristics of the underlying security or reference asset. If the issuer is a unit investment trust or other special purpose vehicle, the structuring will typically involve the deposit with or purchase by such issuer of specified instruments (such as commercial bank loans or
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securities) and/or the execution of various derivative transactions, and the issuance by that entity of one or more classes of securities (structured securities) backed by, or representing interests in, the underlying instruments. The cash flow on the underlying instruments may be apportioned among the newly issued structured securities to create securities with different investment characteristics, such as varying maturities, payment priorities and interest rate provisions, and the extent of such payments made with respect to structured securities is dependent on the extent of the cash flow on the underlying instruments.
Indexed and Inverse Floating Rate Securities. The Fund may invest in securities that provide a potential return based on a particular index or interest rates. For example, the Fund may invest in debt securities that pay interest based on an index of interest rates. The principal amount payable upon maturity of certain securities also may be based on the value of the index. To the extent the Fund invests in these types of securities, the Fund’s return on such securities will rise and fall with the value of the particular index: that is, if the value of the index falls, the value of the indexed securities owned by the Fund will fall. Interest and principal payable on certain securities may also be based on relative changes among particular indices.
The Fund may also invest in so-called “inverse floaters” or “residual interest bonds” on which the interest rates vary inversely with a floating rate (which may be reset periodically by a Dutch auction, a remarketing agent, or by reference to a short-term tax-exempt interest rate index). The Fund may purchase synthetically-created inverse floating rate bonds evidenced by custodial or trust receipts. A trust funds the purchase of a bond by issuing two classes of certificates: short-term floating rate notes (typically sold to third parties) and the inverse floaters (also known as residual certificates). No additional income beyond that provided by the trust’s underlying bond is created; rather, that income is merely divided-up between the two classes of certificates. Generally, income on inverse floating rate bonds will decrease when interest rates increase, and will increase when interest rates decrease. Such securities can have the effect of providing a degree of investment leverage, since they may increase or decrease in value in response to changes in market interest rates at a rate that is a multiple of the actual rate at which fixed-rate securities increase or decrease in response to such changes. As a result, the market values of such securities will generally be more volatile than the market values of fixed-rate securities. To seek to limit the volatility of these securities, the Fund may purchase inverse floating obligations that have shorter-term maturities or that contain limitations on the extent to which the interest rate may vary. Certain investments in such obligations may be illiquid. Furthermore, where such a security includes a contingent liability, in the event of an adverse movement in the underlying index or interest rate, the Fund may be required to pay substantial additional margin to maintain the position.
Credit-Linked Securities. Among the income-producing securities in which the Fund may invest are credit linked securities. The issuers of these securities frequently are limited purpose trusts or other special purpose vehicles that, in turn, invest in a derivative instrument or basket of derivative instruments, such as credit default swaps, interest rate swaps and other securities, in order to provide exposure to certain fixed income markets. For instance, the Fund may invest in credit-linked securities as a cash management tool in order to gain exposure to a certain market and/or to remain fully invested when more traditional income-producing securities are not available. Like an investment in a bond, investments in these credit linked securities represent the right to receive periodic income payments (in the form of distributions) and payment of principal at the end of the term of the security. However, these payments are conditioned on or linked to the issuer’s receipt of payments from, and the issuer’s potential obligations to, the counterparties to the derivative instruments and other securities in which the issuer invests. For instance, the issuer may sell one or more credit default swaps, under which the issuer would receive a stream of payments over the term of the swap agreements provided that no event of default has occurred with respect to the referenced debt obligation upon which the swap is based. If a default occurs, the stream of payments may stop and the issuer would be obligated to pay the counterparty the par (or other agreed upon value) of the referenced debt obligation. This, in turn, would reduce the amount of income and/or principal that the Fund would receive. The Fund’s investments in these securities are indirectly subject to the risks associated with derivative instruments. These securities generally are exempt from registration under the 1933 Act. Accordingly, there may be no established trading market for the securities and they may be illiquid.
Equity-Linked Notes. An equity-linked note (ELN) is a debt instrument whose value is based on the value of a single equity security, basket of equity securities or an index of equity securities (each, an Underlying Equity). An ELN typically provides interest income, thereby offering a yield advantage over investing directly in an Underlying Equity. The Fund may purchase ELNs that trade on a securities exchange or those that trade on the over-the-counter markets, including Rule 144A securities. The Fund may also purchase ELNs in a privately negotiated transaction with the issuer of the ELNs (or its broker-dealer affiliate). The Fund may or may not hold an ELN until its maturity.
Equity-linked securities also include issues such as Structured Yield Product Exchangeable for Stock (STRYPES), Trust Automatic Common Exchange Securities (TRACES), Trust Issued Mandatory Exchange Securities (TIMES) and Trust Enhanced Dividend Securities (TRENDS). The issuers of these equity-linked securities generally purchase and hold a portfolio of stripped U.S. Treasury securities maturing on a quarterly basis through the conversion date, and a forward purchase contract with an existing shareholder of the company relating to the common stock. Quarterly distributions on such equity-linked securities generally consist of the cash received from the U.S. Treasury securities and such equity-linked securities generally are not entitled to any dividends that may be declared on the common stock.
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ELNs also include participation notes issued by a bank or broker-dealer that entitles the Fund to a return measured by the change in value of an Underlying Equity. Participation notes are typically used when a direct investment in the Underlying Equity is restricted due to country-specific regulations. Investment in a participation note is not the same as investment in the constituent shares of the company (or other issuer type) to which the Underlying Equity is economically tied. A participation note represents only an obligation of the company or other issuer type to provide the Fund the economic performance equivalent to holding shares of the Underlying Equity. A participation note does not provide any beneficial or equitable entitlement or interest in the relevant Underlying Equity. In other words, shares of the Underlying Equity are not in any way owned by the Fund.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with equity-linked notes include: Counterparty Risk, Credit Risk, Liquidity Risk and Market Risk.
Index-, Commodity- and Currency-Linked Securities. “Index-linked” or “commodity-linked” notes are debt securities of companies that call for interest payments and/or payment at maturity in different terms than the typical note where the borrower agrees to make fixed interest payments and to pay a fixed sum at maturity. Principal and/or interest payments on an index-linked or commodity-linked note depend on the performance of one or more market indices, such as the S&P 500® Index, a weighted index of commodity futures such as crude oil, gasoline and natural gas or the market prices of a particular commodity or basket of commodities or securities. Currency-linked debt securities are short-term or intermediate-term instruments having a value at maturity, and/or an interest rate, determined by reference to one or more foreign currencies. Payment of principal or periodic interest may be calculated as a multiple of the movement of one currency against another currency, or against an index.
Index-, commodity- and currency-linked securities may entail substantial risks. Such instruments may be subject to significant price volatility. The company issuing the instrument may fail to pay the amount due on maturity. The underlying investment may not perform as expected by the Fund’s portfolio manager. Markets and underlying investments and indexes may move in a direction that was not anticipated by the Fund’s portfolio manager. Performance of the derivatives may be influenced by interest rate and other market changes in the United States and abroad, and certain derivative instruments may be illiquid.
Linked securities are often issued by unit investment trusts. Examples of this include such index-linked securities as S&P Depositary Receipts (SPDRs), which is an interest in a unit investment trust holding a portfolio of securities linked to the S&P 500® Index, and a type of exchange-traded fund (ETF). SPDRs generally closely track the underlying portfolio of securities, trade like a share of common stock and pay periodic dividends proportionate to those paid by the portfolio of stocks that comprise the S&P 500® Index. As a holder of interests in a unit investment trust, the Fund would indirectly bear its ratable share of that unit investment trust’s expenses. At the same time, the Fund would continue to pay its own management and advisory fees and other expenses, as a result of which the Fund and its shareholders in effect would be absorbing levels of fees with respect to investments in such unit investment trusts.
Because linked securities typically involve no credit enhancement, their credit risk generally will be equivalent to that of the underlying instruments. Investments in structured products may be structured as a class that is either subordinated or unsubordinated to the right of payment of another class. Subordinated linked securities typically have higher rates of return and present greater risks than unsubordinated structured products. Structured products sometimes are sold in private placement transactions and often have a limited trading market.
Investments in linked securities have the potential to lead to significant losses because of unexpected movements in the underlying financial asset, index, currency or other investment. The ability of the Fund to utilize linked securities successfully will depend on its ability correctly to predict pertinent market movements, which cannot be assured. Because currency-linked securities usually relate to foreign currencies, some of which may be currencies from emerging market countries, there are certain additional risks associated with such investments.
Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts. A futures contract sale creates an obligation by the seller to deliver the type of security or other asset called for in the contract at a specified delivery time for a stated price. A futures contract purchase creates an obligation by the purchaser to take delivery of the type of security or other asset called for in the contract at a specified delivery time for a stated price. The specific security or other asset delivered or taken at the settlement date is not determined until on or near that date. The determination is made in accordance with the rules of the exchange on which the futures contract was made. The Fund may enter into futures contracts which are traded on national or foreign futures exchanges and are standardized as to maturity date and underlying security or other asset. Futures exchanges and trading in the United States are regulated under the CEA by the CFTC, a U.S. Government agency. See CFTC Regulation below for information on CFTC regulation.
Traders in futures contracts may be broadly classified as either “hedgers” or “speculators.” Hedgers use the futures markets primarily to offset unfavorable changes (anticipated or potential) in the value of securities or other assets currently owned or expected to be acquired by them. Speculators less often own the securities or other assets underlying the futures contracts which they trade, and generally use futures contracts with the expectation of realizing profits from fluctuations in the value of the underlying securities or other assets.
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Unlike when the Fund purchases or sells a security, no price is paid or received by the Fund upon the purchase or sale of a futures contract, although the Fund is required to deposit with its futures broker an amount of cash and/or U.S. Government securities in order to initiate and maintain open positions in futures contracts. This amount is known as “initial margin.” The nature of initial margin in futures transactions is different from that of margin in security transactions, in that futures contract margin does not involve the borrowing of funds by the Fund to finance the transactions. Rather, initial margin is in the nature of a performance bond or good faith deposit intended to assure completion of the contract (delivery or acceptance of the underlying security or other asset) that is returned to the Fund upon termination of the futures contract, assuming all contractual obligations have been satisfied. Minimum initial margin requirements are established by the relevant futures exchange and may be changed. Brokers may establish deposit requirements which are higher than the exchange minimums. Futures contracts are customarily purchased and sold on margin which may range upward from less than 5% of the value of the contract being traded. Subsequent payments, called “variation margin,” to and from the broker (or the custodian) are made on a daily basis as the price of the underlying security or other asset fluctuates, a process known as “marking to market.” If the futures contract price changes to the extent that the margin on deposit does not satisfy margin requirements, payment of additional variation margin will be required. Conversely, a change in the contract value may reduce the required margin, resulting in a repayment of excess margin to the contract holder. Variation margin payments are made for as long as the contract remains open.
Although futures contracts by their terms call for actual delivery or acceptance of securities or other assets (stock index futures contracts or futures contracts that reference other intangible assets do not permit delivery of the referenced assets), the contracts usually are closed out before the settlement date without the making or taking of delivery. The Fund may elect to close some or all of its futures positions at any time prior to their expiration. The purpose of taking such action would be to reduce or eliminate the position then currently held by the Fund. Closing out an open futures position is done by taking an opposite position (“buying” a contract which has previously been “sold,” “selling” a contract previously “purchased”) in an identical contract (i.e., the same aggregate amount of the specific type of security or other asset with the same delivery date) to terminate the position. Final determinations are made as to whether the price of the initial sale of the futures contract exceeds or is below the price of the offsetting purchase, or whether the purchase price exceeds or is below the offsetting sale price. Final determinations of variation margin are then made, additional cash is required to be paid by or released to the Fund, and the Fund realizes a loss or a gain. Brokerage commissions and transaction fees are incurred when a futures contract is bought or sold.
Successful use of futures contracts by the Fund is subject to its portfolio manager’s ability to predict correctly movements in the direction of interest rates and other factors affecting securities and commodities markets. This requires different skills and techniques than those required to predict changes in the prices of individual securities. The Fund, therefore, bears the risk that future market trends will be incorrectly predicted.
The risk of loss in trading futures contracts in some strategies can be substantial, due both to the relatively low margin deposits required and the potential for an extremely high degree of leverage involved in futures contracts. As a result, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in an immediate and substantial loss to the investor. For example, if at the time of purchase, 10% of the value of the futures contract is deposited as margin, a subsequent 10% decrease in the value of the futures contract would result in a total loss of the margin deposit, before any deduction for the transaction costs, if the account were then closed out. A 15% decrease would result in a loss equal to 150% of the original margin deposit if the contract were closed out. Thus, a purchase or sale of a futures contract may result in losses in excess of the amount posted as initial margin for the contract.
In the event of adverse price movements, the Fund would continue to be required to make daily cash payments in order to maintain its required margin. In such a situation, if the Fund has insufficient cash, it may have to sell portfolio securities in order to meet daily margin requirements at a time when it may be disadvantageous to do so. The inability to close the futures position also could have an adverse impact on the ability to hedge effectively.
To reduce or eliminate a hedge position held by the Fund, the Fund may seek to close out a position. The ability to establish and close out positions will be subject to the development and maintenance of a liquid secondary market. It is not certain that this market will develop or continue to exist for a particular futures contract, which may limit the Fund’s ability to realize its profits or limit its losses. Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange include the following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest in certain contracts; (ii) restrictions may be imposed by an exchange on opening transactions, closing transactions or both; (iii) trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular classes or series of contracts, or underlying securities; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances, such as volume in excess of trading or clearing capability, may interrupt normal operations on an exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or a clearing corporation may not at all times be adequate to handle current trading volume; or (vi) one or more exchanges could, for economic or other reasons, decide or be compelled at some future date to discontinue the trading of contracts (or a particular class or series of contracts), in which event the secondary market on that exchange (or in the class or series of contracts) would cease to exist, although outstanding contracts on the exchange that had been issued by a clearing corporation as a result of trades on that exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.
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Interest Rate Futures Contracts. Bond prices are established in both the cash market and the futures market. In the cash market, bonds are purchased and sold with payment for the full purchase price of the bond being made in cash, generally within five business days after the trade. In the futures market, a contract is made to purchase or sell a bond in the future for a set price on a certain date. Historically, the prices for bonds established in the futures markets have tended to move generally in the aggregate in concert with the cash market prices and have maintained fairly predictable relationships. Accordingly, the Fund may use interest rate futures contracts as a defense, or hedge, against anticipated interest rate changes. The Fund presently could accomplish a similar result to that which it hopes to achieve through the use of interest rate futures contracts by selling bonds with long maturities and investing in bonds with short maturities when interest rates are expected to increase, or conversely, selling bonds with short maturities and investing in bonds with long maturities when interest rates are expected to decline. However, because of the liquidity that is often available in the futures market, the protection is more likely to be achieved, perhaps at a lower cost and without changing the rate of interest being earned by the Fund, through using futures contracts.
Interest rate futures contracts are exchange-traded in an auction environment. Each exchange guarantees performance under contract provisions through a clearing corporation, a nonprofit organization managed by the exchange membership. A public market exists in futures contracts covering various financial instruments including long-term U.S. Treasury Bonds and Notes; GNMA modified pass-through mortgage-backed securities; three-month U.S. Treasury Bills; and ninety-day commercial paper. The Fund may also invest in exchange-traded Eurodollar contracts, which are interest rate futures on the forward level of a reference rate. These contracts are generally considered liquid securities and trade on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Such Eurodollar contracts are generally used to “lock-in” or hedge the future level of short-term rates. The Fund may trade in any interest rate futures contracts for which there exists a public market, including, without limitation, the foregoing instruments.
Index Futures Contracts. An index futures contract is a contract to buy or sell units of an index at a specified future date at a price agreed upon when the contract is made. Entering into a contract to buy units of an index is commonly referred to as buying or purchasing a contract or holding a long position in the index. Entering into a contract to sell units of an index is commonly referred to as selling a contract or holding a short position in the index. A unit is the current value of the index. The Fund may enter into stock index futures contracts, debt index futures contracts, or other index futures contracts appropriate to its objective(s).
Municipal Bond Index Futures Contracts. Municipal bond index futures contracts may act as a hedge against changes in market conditions. A municipal bond index assigns values daily to the municipal bonds included in the index based on the independent assessment of dealer-to-dealer municipal bond brokers. A municipal bond index futures contract represents a firm commitment by which two parties agree to take or make delivery of an amount equal to a specified dollar amount multiplied by the difference between the municipal bond index value on the last trading date of the contract and the price at which the futures contract is originally struck. No physical delivery of the underlying securities in the index is made.
Commodity-Linked Futures Contracts. Commodity-linked futures contracts are traded on futures exchanges. These futures exchanges offer a central marketplace in which to transact in futures contracts, a clearing corporation to process trades, and standardization of expiration dates and contract sizes. Futures markets also specify the terms and conditions of delivery as well as the maximum permissible price movement during a trading session. Additionally, the commodity futures exchanges may have position limit rules that limit the amount of futures contracts that any one party may hold in a particular commodity at any point in time. These position limit rules are designed to prevent any one participant from controlling a significant portion of the market.
Commodity-linked futures contracts are generally based upon commodities within six main commodity groups: (1) energy, which includes, among others, crude oil, brent crude oil, gas oil, natural gas, gasoline and heating oil; (2) livestock, which includes, among others, feeder cattle, live cattle and hogs; (3) agriculture, which includes, among others, wheat (Kansas wheat and Chicago wheat), corn and soybeans; (4) industrial metals, which includes, among others, aluminum, copper, lead, nickel and zinc; (5) precious metals, which includes, among others, gold and silver; and (6) softs, which includes cotton, coffee, sugar and cocoa. The Fund may purchase commodity futures contracts, swaps on commodity futures contracts, options on futures contracts and options and futures on commodity indices with respect to these six main commodity groups and the individual commodities within each group, as well as other types of commodities.
The price of a commodity futures contract will reflect the storage costs of purchasing the physical commodity. These storage costs include the time value of money invested in the physical commodity plus the actual costs of storing the commodity less any benefits from ownership of the physical commodity that are not obtained by the holder of a futures contract (this is sometimes referred to as the “convenience yield”). To the extent that these storage costs change for an underlying commodity while the Fund is long futures contracts on that commodity, the value of the futures contract may change proportionately.
In the commodity futures markets, if producers of the underlying commodity wish to hedge the price risk of selling the commodity, they will sell futures contracts today to lock in the price of the commodity at delivery tomorrow. In order to induce speculators to take the corresponding long side of the same futures contract, the commodity producer must be willing to sell the
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futures contract at a price that is below the expected future spot price. Conversely, if the predominant hedgers in the futures market are the purchasers of the underlying commodity who purchase futures contracts to hedge against a rise in prices, then speculators will only take the short side of the futures contract if the futures price is greater than the expected future spot price of the commodity.
The changing nature of the hedgers and speculators in the commodity markets will influence whether futures contract prices are above or below the expected future spot price. This can have significant implications for the Fund when it is time to replace an existing contract with a new contract. If the nature of hedgers and speculators in futures markets has shifted such that commodity purchasers are the predominant hedgers in the market, the Fund might open the new futures position at a higher price or choose other related commodity-linked investments.
The values of commodities which underlie commodity futures contracts are subject to additional variables which may be less significant to the values of traditional securities such as stocks and bonds. Variables such as drought, floods, weather, livestock disease, embargoes and tariffs may have a larger impact on commodity prices and commodity-linked investments, including futures contracts, commodity-linked structured notes, commodity-linked options and commodity-linked swaps, than on traditional securities. These additional variables may create additional investment risks which subject the Fund’s commodity-linked investments to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities.
Options on Futures Contracts. The Fund may purchase and write call and put options on those futures contracts that it is permitted to buy or sell. The Fund may use such options on futures contracts in lieu of writing options directly on the underlying securities or other assets or purchasing and selling the underlying futures contracts. Such options generally operate in the same manner as options purchased or written directly on the underlying investments. A futures option gives the holder, in return for the premium paid, the right, but not the obligation, to buy from (call) or sell to (put) the writer of the option a futures contract at a specified price at any time during the period of the option. Upon exercise, the writer of the option is obligated to pay the difference between the cash value of the futures contract and the exercise price. Like the buyer or seller of a futures contract, the holder or writer of an option has the right to terminate its position prior to the scheduled expiration of the option by selling or purchasing an option of the same series, at which time the person entering into the closing purchase transaction will realize a gain or loss. There is no guarantee that such closing purchase transactions can be effected.
The Fund will be required to deposit initial margin and maintenance margin with respect to put and call options on futures contracts written by it pursuant to brokers’ requirements similar to those described above.
Options on Index Futures Contracts. The Fund may also purchase and sell options on index futures contracts. Options on index futures give the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a position in an index futures contract (a long position if the option is a call and a short position if the option is a put), at a specified exercise price at any time during the period of the option. Upon exercise of the option, the delivery of the futures position by the writer of the option to the holder of the option will be accompanied by delivery of the accumulated balance in the writer’s futures margin account, which represents the amount by which the market price of the index futures contract, at exercise, exceeds (in the case of a call) or is less than (in the case of a put) the exercise price of the option on the index future. If an option is exercised on the last trading day prior to the expiration date of the option, the settlement will be made entirely in cash equal to the difference between the exercise price of the option and the closing level of the index on which the future is based on the expiration date. Purchasers of options who fail to exercise their options prior to the exercise date suffer a loss of the premium paid.
Eurodollar and Yankee Dollar Futures Contracts and Options Thereon. Eurodollar futures contracts enable purchasers to obtain a fixed rate for the lending of funds and sellers to obtain a fixed rate for borrowings. The Fund may use Eurodollar futures contracts and options thereon to hedge against changes in a reference rate, such as LIBOR or SOFR, to which many interest rate swaps and fixed income instruments are linked.
Options
Options on Stocks, Stock Indices and Other Indices. The Fund may purchase and write (i.e., sell) put and call options. Such options may relate to particular stocks or stock indices, and may or may not be listed on a domestic or foreign securities exchange and may or may not be cleared and settled by the Options Clearing Corporation (OCC). Stock index options are put options and call options on various stock indices. In most respects, they are identical to listed options on common stocks.
There is a key difference between stock options and index options in connection with their exercise. In the case of stock options, the underlying security, common stock, is delivered. However, upon the exercise of an index option, settlement does not occur by delivery of the securities comprising the index. The option holder who exercises the index option receives an amount of cash if the closing level of the stock index upon which the option is based is greater than (in the case of a call) or less than (in the case of a put) the exercise price of the option. This amount of cash is equal to the difference between the closing price of the stock index and the exercise price of the option expressed in dollars times a specified multiple. A stock index fluctuates with changes
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in the market value of the securities included in the index. For example, some stock index options are based on a broad market index, such as the S&P 500® Index or a narrower market index, such as the S&P 100® Index. Indices may also be based on an industry or market segment.
The Fund may, for the purpose of hedging its portfolio, subject to applicable securities regulations, purchase and write put and call options on foreign stock indices listed on foreign and domestic stock exchanges.
As an alternative to purchasing call and put options on index futures, the Fund may purchase call and put options on the underlying indices themselves. Such options could be used in a manner identical to the use of options on index futures. Options involving securities indices provide the holder with the right to make or receive a cash settlement upon exercise of the option based on movements in the relevant index. Such options must be listed on a national securities exchange and issued by the OCC. Such options may relate to particular securities or to various stock indices, except that the Fund may not write covered options on an index.
Writing Covered Options. The Fund may write covered call options and covered put options on securities held in its portfolio. Call options written by the Fund give the purchaser the right to buy the underlying securities from the Fund at the stated exercise price at any time prior to the expiration date of the option, regardless of the security’s market price; put options give the purchaser the right to sell the underlying securities to the Fund at the stated exercise price at any time prior to the expiration date of the option, regardless of the security’s market price.
The Fund may write covered options, which means that, so long as the Fund is obligated as the writer of a call option, it will own the underlying securities subject to the option (or comparable securities satisfying the cover requirements of securities exchanges). In the case of put options, the Fund will hold liquid assets equal to the price to be paid if the option is exercised. In addition, the Fund will be considered to have covered a put or call option if and to the extent that it holds an option that offsets some or all of the risk of the option it has written. The Fund may write combinations of covered puts and calls (straddles) on the same underlying security.
The Fund will receive a premium from writing a put or call option, which increases the Fund’s return on the underlying security if the option expires unexercised or is closed out at a profit. The amount of the premium reflects, among other things, the relationship between the exercise price and the current market value of the underlying security, the volatility of the underlying security, the amount of time remaining until expiration, current interest rates, and the effect of supply and demand in the options market and in the market for the underlying security. By writing a call option, the Fund limits its opportunity to profit from any increase in the market value of the underlying security above the exercise price of the option but continues to bear the risk of a decline in the value of the underlying security. By writing a put option, the Fund assumes the risk that it may be required to purchase the underlying security for an exercise price higher than the security’s then-current market value, resulting in a potential capital loss unless the security subsequently appreciates in value.
The Fund’s obligation to sell an instrument subject to a call option written by it, or to purchase an instrument subject to a put option written by it, may be terminated prior to the expiration date of the option by the Fund’s execution of a closing purchase transaction, which is effected by purchasing on an exchange an offsetting option of the same series (i.e., same underlying instrument, exercise price and expiration date) as the option previously written. A closing purchase transaction will ordinarily be effected in order to realize a profit on an outstanding option, to prevent an underlying instrument from being called, to permit the sale of the underlying instrument or to permit the writing of a new option containing different terms on such underlying instrument. The Fund realizes a profit or loss from a closing purchase transaction if the cost of the transaction (option premium plus transaction costs) is less or more than the premium received from writing the option. Because increases in the market price of a call option generally reflect increases in the market price of the security underlying the option, any loss resulting from a closing purchase transaction may be offset in whole or in part by unrealized appreciation of the underlying security.
If the Fund writes a call option but does not own the underlying security, and when it writes a put option, the Fund may be required to deposit cash or securities with its broker as “margin” or collateral for its obligation to buy or sell the underlying security. As the value of the underlying security varies, the Fund may also have to deposit additional margin with the broker. Margin requirements are complex and are fixed by individual brokers, subject to minimum requirements currently imposed by the Federal Reserve Board and by stock exchanges and other self-regulatory organizations.
Purchasing Put Options. The Fund may purchase put options to protect its portfolio holdings in an underlying security against a decline in market value. Such hedge protection is provided during the life of the put option since the Fund, as holder of the put option, is able to sell the underlying security at the put exercise price regardless of any decline in the underlying security’s market price. For a put option to be profitable, the market price of the underlying security must decline sufficiently below the exercise price to cover the premium and transaction costs. By using put options in this manner, the Fund will reduce any profit it might otherwise have realized from appreciation of the underlying security by the premium paid for the put option and by transaction costs.
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Purchasing Call Options. The Fund may purchase call options, including call options to hedge against an increase in the price of securities that the Fund wants ultimately to buy. Such hedge protection is provided during the life of the call option since the Fund, as holder of the call option, is able to buy the underlying security at the exercise price regardless of any increase in the underlying security’s market price. In order for a call option to be profitable, the market price of the underlying security must rise sufficiently above the exercise price to cover the premium and transaction costs. These costs will reduce any profit the Fund might have realized had it bought the underlying security at the time it purchased the call option.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Options. OTC options (options not traded on exchanges) are generally established through negotiation with the other party to the options contract.
Swap Agreements
General. Swap agreements are derivative instruments that can be individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors. Depending on their structure, swap agreements may increase or decrease the Fund’s exposure to long- or short-term interest rates, foreign currency values, mortgage securities, corporate borrowing rates, or other factors such as security prices or inflation rates. Common types of swap agreements include interest rate, index, commodity, commodity futures, equity, equity index, credit default, bond futures, total return, currency exchange rate, and other types of swap agreements such as caps, collars and floors. The Fund also may enter into swaptions, which are options to enter into a swap agreement.
Swap agreements are usually entered into without an upfront payment because the value of each party’s position is the same. The market values of the underlying commitments will change over time, resulting in one of the commitments being worth more than the other and the net market value creating a risk exposure for one party or the other.
In a typical interest rate swap, one party agrees to make regular payments equal to a floating interest rate times a “notional principal amount,” in return for payments equal to a fixed rate times the same amount, for a specified period of time. If a swap agreement provides for payments in different currencies, the parties might agree to exchange notional principal amounts as well. In a total return swap agreement, the non-floating rate side of the swap is based on the total return of an individual security, a basket of securities, an index or another reference asset. Swaps may also depend on other prices or rates, such as the value of an index or mortgage prepayment rates.
In a typical cap or floor agreement, one party agrees to make payments only under specified circumstances, usually in return for payment of a fee by the other party. For example, the buyer of an interest rate cap obtains the right to receive payments to the extent that a specified interest rate exceeds an agreed-upon level, while the seller of an interest rate floor is obligated to make payments to the extent that a specified interest rate falls below an agreed-upon level. Caps and floors have an effect similar to buying or writing options. A collar combines elements of buying a cap and selling a floor. In interest rate collar transactions, one party sells a cap and purchases a floor, or vice versa, in an attempt to protect itself against interest rate movements exceeding given minimum or maximum levels or collar amounts.
Swap agreements will tend to shift the Fund’s investment exposure from one type of investment to another. For example, if the Fund agreed to pay fixed rates in exchange for floating rates while holding fixed-rate bonds, the swap would tend to decrease the Fund’s exposure to long-term interest rates. Another example is if the Fund agreed to exchange payments in dollars for payments in foreign currency. In that case, the swap agreement would tend to decrease the Fund’s exposure to U.S. interest rates and increase its exposure to foreign currency and interest rates.
Because swaps are two-party contracts that may be subject to contractual restrictions on transferability and termination and because they may have terms of greater than seven days, swap agreements may be considered to be illiquid. It may not be possible to initiate a transaction or liquidate a position at an advantageous time or price, which may result in significant losses.
Moreover, the Fund bears the risk of loss of the amount expected to be received under a swap agreement in the event of the default or bankruptcy of a swap agreement counterparty. When a counterparty’s obligations are not fully secured by collateral, then the Fund is essentially an unsecured creditor of the counterparty. If the counterparty defaults, the Fund will have contractual remedies, but there is no assurance that a counterparty will be able to meet its obligations pursuant to such contracts or that, in the event of default, the Fund will succeed in enforcing contractual remedies. Counterparty risk still exists even if a counterparty’s obligations are secured by collateral because the Fund’s interest in collateral may not be perfected or additional collateral may not be promptly posted as required. Counterparty risk also may be more pronounced if a counterparty’s obligations exceed the amount of collateral held by the Fund (if any), the Fund is unable (or delayed in its ability) to exercise its interest in collateral upon default by the counterparty, or the termination value of the instrument varies significantly from the marked-to-market value of the instrument.
Counterparty risk with respect to derivatives will be affected by new rules and regulations affecting the derivatives market. For example, some derivatives transactions are required to be centrally cleared, and a party to a cleared derivatives transaction is subject to the credit risk of the clearing house and the clearing member through which it holds its cleared position, rather than the credit risk of its original counterparty to the derivative transaction. Credit risk of market participants with respect to
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derivatives that are centrally cleared is concentrated in a few clearing houses, and it is not clear how an insolvency proceeding of a clearing house would be conducted and what impact an insolvency of a clearing house would have on the financial system. A clearing member is obligated by contract and by applicable regulation to segregate all funds received from customers with respect to cleared derivatives transactions from the clearing member’s proprietary assets. However, all funds and other property received by a clearing broker from its customers are generally held by the clearing broker on a commingled basis in an omnibus account, and the clearing member may invest those funds in certain instruments permitted under the applicable regulations. The assets of the Fund might not be fully protected in the event of the bankruptcy of the Fund’s clearing member, because the Fund would be limited to recovering only a pro rata share of all available funds segregated on behalf of the clearing broker’s customers for a relevant account class. Also, the clearing member is required to transfer to the clearing organization the amount of margin required by the clearing organization for cleared derivatives, which amounts are generally held in an omnibus account at the clearing organization for all customers of the clearing member. Regulations promulgated by the CFTC require that the clearing member notify the clearing house of the amount of initial margin provided by the clearing member to the clearing organization that is attributable to each customer. However, if the clearing member does not provide accurate reporting, the Funds are subject to the risk that a clearing organization will use the Fund’s assets held in an omnibus account at the clearing organization to satisfy payment obligations of a defaulting customer of the clearing member to the clearing organization. In addition, clearing members generally provide to the clearing organization the net amount of variation margin required for cleared swaps for all of its customers in the aggregate, rather than the gross amount of each customer. The Funds are therefore subject to the risk that a clearing organization will not make variation margin payments owed to the Fund if another customer of the clearing member has suffered a loss and is in default, and the risk that the Fund will be required to provide additional variation margin to the clearing house before the clearing house will move the Fund’s cleared derivatives transactions to another clearing member. In addition, if a clearing member does not comply with the applicable regulations or its agreement with the Funds, or in the event of fraud or misappropriation of customer assets by a clearing member, the Fund could have only an unsecured creditor claim in an insolvency of the clearing member with respect to the margin held by the clearing member.
Interest Rate Swaps. Interest rate swap agreements are often used to obtain or preserve a desired return or spread at a lower cost than through a direct investment in an instrument that yields the desired return or spread. They are financial instruments that involve the exchange of one type of interest rate cash flow for another type of interest rate cash flow on specified dates in the future. In a standard interest rate swap transaction, two parties agree to exchange their respective commitments to pay fixed or floating interest rates on a predetermined specified (notional) amount. The swap agreement’s notional amount is the predetermined basis for calculating the obligations that the swap counterparties have agreed to exchange. Under most swap agreements, the obligations of the parties are exchanged on a net basis. The two payment streams are netted out, with each party receiving or paying, as the case may be, only the net amount of the two payments. Interest rate swaps can be based on various measures of interest rates, including swap rates, Treasury rates, foreign interest rates and other reference rates.
Municipal Market Data (MMD) Rate Locks. An MMD Rate Lock permits the Fund to lock in a specific municipal interest rate for a portion of its portfolio to preserve a return on a particular investment or a portion of its portfolio, which in turn protects against any increase in the price of securities to be purchased at a later date. By using an MMD Rate Lock, the Fund can create a synthetic long or short duration position. The Fund will ordinarily use these transactions as a hedge or for duration or risk management, which may not be successful. An MMD Rate Lock is a contract between the Fund and an MMD Rate Lock provider pursuant to which the parties agree to make a net settlement payment to each other on a notional and duration amount, contingent upon whether the Municipal Market Data AAA General Obligation Scale is above or below a specified level on the expiration date of the contract. For example, if the Fund buys an MMD Rate Lock and the Municipal Market Data AAA General Obligation Scale is below the specified level on the expiration date, the counterparty to the contract will make a payment to the Fund equal to the specified level minus the actual level, multiplied by the notional amount of the contract. If the Municipal Market Data AAA General Obligation Scale is above the specified level on the expiration date, the Fund will make a payment to the counterparty equal to the actual level minus the specified level, multiplied by the notional amount of the contract. In connection with investments in MMD Rate Locks, there is a risk that municipal yields will move in the opposite direction than anticipated by the Fund, which would cause the Fund to make payments to its counterparty in the transaction that could adversely affect the Fund’s performance.
Credit Default Swap Agreements. The Fund may enter into credit default swap agreements, which may have as reference obligations one or more securities or a basket of securities that are or are not currently held by the Fund. The protection “buyer” in a credit default contract is generally obligated to pay the protection “seller” an upfront or a periodic stream of payments over the term of the contract provided that no credit event, such as a default, on a reference obligation has occurred. If a credit event occurs, the seller generally must pay the buyer the “par value” (full notional value) of the swap in exchange for an equal face amount of deliverable obligations of the reference entity described in the swap, or the seller may be required to deliver the related net cash amount, if the swap is cash settled. The Fund may be either the buyer or seller in a credit default swap. If the Fund is a buyer and no credit event occurs, the Fund may recover nothing if the swap is held through its termination date. However, if a credit event occurs, the buyer generally may elect to receive the full notional value of the swap in exchange for an
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equal face amount of deliverable obligations of the reference entity whose value may have significantly decreased. As a seller, the Fund generally receives an upfront payment or a fixed rate of income throughout the term of the swap provided that there is no credit event. As the seller, the Fund would effectively add leverage to its portfolio because, in addition to its total net assets, the Fund would be subject to investment exposure on the notional amount of the swap.
Credit default swap agreements may involve greater risks than if the Fund had invested in the reference obligation directly since, in addition to risks relating to the reference obligation, credit default swaps are subject to liquidity risk, counterparty risk and credit risk. The Fund will enter into credit default swap agreements generally with counterparties that meet certain standards of creditworthiness. A buyer generally will lose its investment and recover nothing if no credit event occurs and the swap is held to its termination date. If a credit event were to occur, the value of any deliverable obligation received by the seller, coupled with the upfront or periodic payments previously received, may be less than the full notional value it pays to the buyer, resulting in a loss of value to the seller. The Fund’s obligations under a credit default swap agreement will be accrued daily (offset against any amounts owing to the Fund).
Equity Swaps. Equity swaps allow the parties to the swap agreement to exchange components of return on one equity investment (e.g., a basket of equity securities or an index) for a component of return on another non-equity or equity investment, including an exchange of differential rates of return. Equity swaps may be used to invest in a market without owning or taking physical custody of securities in circumstances where direct investment may be restricted for legal reasons or is otherwise impractical. Equity swaps also may be used for other purposes, such as hedging or seeking to increase total return.
Total Return Swap Agreements. Total return swap agreements are contracts in which one party agrees to make periodic payments to another party based on the change in market value of the assets underlying the contract, which may include a specified security, basket of securities or securities indices during the specified period, in return for periodic payments based on a fixed or variable interest rate or the total return from other underlying assets. Total return swap agreements may be used to obtain exposure to a security or market without owning or taking physical custody of such security or investing directly in such market. Total return swap agreements may effectively add leverage to the Fund’s portfolio because, in addition to its total net assets, the Fund would be subject to investment exposure on the notional amount of the swap.
Total return swap agreements are subject to the risk that a counterparty will default on its payment obligations to the Fund thereunder, and conversely, that the Fund will not be able to meet its obligation to the counterparty. Generally, the Fund will enter into total return swaps on a net basis (i.e., the two payment streams are netted against one another with the Fund receiving or paying, as the case may be, only the net amount of the two payments). The net amount of the excess, if any, of the Fund’s obligations over its entitlements with respect to each total return swap will be accrued on a daily basis. If the total return swap transaction is entered into on other than a net basis, the full amount of the Fund’s obligations will be accrued on a daily basis.
Variance, Volatility and Correlation Swap Agreements. Variance and volatility swaps are contracts that provide exposure to increases or decreases in the volatility of certain referenced assets. Correlation swaps are contracts that provide exposure to increases or decreases in the correlation between the prices of different assets or different market rates.
Commodity-Linked Swaps. Commodity-linked swaps are two-party contracts in which the parties agree to exchange the return or interest rate on one instrument for the return of a particular commodity, commodity index or commodities futures or options contract. The payment streams are calculated by reference to an agreed upon notional amount. A one-period swap contract operates in a manner similar to a forward or futures contract because there is an agreement to swap a commodity for cash at only one forward date. The Fund may engage in swap transactions that have more than one period and therefore more than one exchange of commodities.
The Fund may invest in total return commodity swaps to gain exposure to the overall commodity markets. In a total return commodity swap, the Fund will receive the price appreciation of a commodity index, a portion of the index, or a single commodity in exchange for paying an agreed-upon fee. If the commodity swap is for one period, the Fund will pay a fixed fee, established at the outset of the swap. However, if the term of the commodity swap is more than one period, with interim swap payments, the Fund will pay an adjustable or floating fee. With a “floating” rate, the fee is pegged to a reference rate such as LIBOR or SOFR, and is adjusted each period. Therefore, if interest rates increase over the term of the swap contract, the Fund may be required to pay a higher fee at each swap reset date.
Cross-Currency Swaps. Cross-currency swaps are similar to interest rate swaps, except that they involve multiple currencies. The Fund may enter into a cross-currency swap when it has exposure to one currency and desires exposure to a different currency. Typically, the interest rates that determine the cross-currency swap payments are fixed, although occasionally one or both parties may pay a floating rate of interest. Unlike an interest rate swap, however, the principal amounts are exchanged at the beginning of the contract and returned at the end of the contract. In addition to paying and receiving amounts at the beginning and termination of the agreements, both sides will have to pay in full periodically based upon the currency they have borrowed. Changes in foreign exchange currency rates and changes in interest rates, as described above, may negatively affect cross-currency swaps.
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Contracts for Differences. Contracts for differences are swap arrangements in which the parties agree that their return (or loss) will be based on the relative performance of two different groups or baskets of securities. Often, one or both baskets will be an established securities index. The Fund’s return will be based on changes in value of theoretical long futures positions in the securities comprising one basket (with an aggregate face value equal to the notional amount of the contract for differences) and theoretical short futures positions in the securities comprising the other basket. The Fund also may use actual long and short futures positions and achieve similar market exposure by netting the payment obligations of the two contracts. The Fund typically enters into contracts for differences (and analogous futures positions) when its portfolio manager believes that the basket of securities constituting the long position will outperform the basket constituting the short position. If the short basket outperforms the long basket, the Fund will realize a loss — even in circumstances when the securities in both the long and short baskets appreciate in value.
Swaptions. A swaption is an options contract on a swap agreement. These transactions give a party the right (but not the obligation) to enter into new swap agreements or to shorten, extend, cancel or otherwise modify an existing swap agreement (which are described herein) at some designated future time on specified terms, in return for payment of the purchase price (the “premium”) of the option. The Fund may write (sell) and purchase put and call swaptions to the same extent it may make use of standard options on securities or other instruments. The writer of the contract receives the premium and bears the risk of unfavorable changes in the market value on the underlying swap agreement. Swaptions can be bundled and sold as a package. These are commonly called interest rate caps, floors and collars (which are described herein).
Many swaps are complex and often valued subjectively. Many over-the-counter derivatives are complex and their valuation often requires modeling and judgment, which increases the risk of mispricing or incorrect valuation. The pricing models used may not produce valuations that are consistent with the values the Fund realizes when it closes or sells an over-the-counter derivative. Valuation risk is more pronounced when the Fund enters into over-the-counter derivatives with specialized terms because the market value of those derivatives in some cases is determined in part by reference to similar derivatives with more standardized terms. Incorrect valuations may result in increased cash payment requirements to counterparties, undercollateralization and/or errors in calculation of the Fund’s net asset value.
Title VII of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the Dodd-Frank Act) established a framework for the regulation of OTC swap markets; the framework outlined the joint responsibility of the CFTC and the SEC in regulating swaps. The CFTC is responsible for the regulation of swaps, the SEC is responsible for the regulation of security-based swaps and they are both jointly responsible for the regulation of mixed swaps.
Risk of Potential Governmental Regulation of Derivatives
It is possible that government regulation of various types of derivative instruments, including futures and swap agreements, may limit or prevent the Funds from using such instruments as a part of their investment strategy, and could ultimately prevent the Funds from being able to achieve their investment objectives. The effects of present or future legislation and regulation in this area are not known, but the effects could be substantial and adverse.
The futures markets are subject to comprehensive statutes, regulations, and margin requirements. In addition, the SEC, CFTC, exchanges and various self-regulatory organizations are authorized to take extraordinary actions in the event of a market emergency, including, for example, the implementation or reduction of speculative position limits, the implementation of higher margin requirements, the establishment of daily price limits and the suspension of trading.
The regulation of swaps and futures transactions in the U.S. is a rapidly changing area of law and is subject to modification by government and judicial action. Such regulations can change, perhaps to a material extent, the nature of an investment in the Fund or the ability of the Fund to continue to implement its investment strategies. In particular, the Dodd-Frank Act, which was signed into law in July 2010, has changed the way in which the U.S. financial system is supervised and regulated. Title VII of the Dodd-Frank Act sets forth a new legislative framework for OTC derivatives, such as swaps, in which the Funds may invest. Title VII of the Dodd-Frank Act makes broad changes to the OTC derivatives market and grants significant authority to the SEC and the CFTC to regulate OTC derivatives and market participants.
Recent U.S. and non-U.S. legislative and regulatory reforms, including those related to the Dodd-Frank Act, have resulted in, and may in the future result in, new regulation of derivative instruments and the Fund's use of such instruments. Such regulations could, among other things, restrict the Fund's ability to engage in derivative transactions (for example, by making certain types of derivative instruments or transactions no longer available to the Fund) and/or increase the costs of such transactions, and the Fund may as a result be unable to execute its investment strategies in a manner the Investment Manager might otherwise choose.
The U.S. government and the European Union (and some other jurisdictions) have enacted regulations and similar requirements that prescribe clearing, margin, reporting and registration requirements for participants in the derivatives market. These requirements are evolving and their ultimate impact on the Fund remains unclear, but such impact could include restricting and/or imposing significant costs or other burdens upon the Fund’s participation in derivatives transactions. Additionally, regulations governing the use of derivatives by registered investment companies require, among other things, that a fund that
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invests in derivative instruments beyond a specified limited amount to apply a value-at-risk-based limit to its portfolio and establish a comprehensive derivatives risk management program. A fund that uses derivative instruments in a limited amount is not subject to the full requirements of Rule 18f-4.
Additional Risk Factors in Cleared Derivatives Transactions
Under recently adopted rules and regulations, transactions in some types of swaps (including interest rate swaps and credit default swaps on North American and European indices) are required to be centrally cleared. In a transaction involving those swaps (“cleared derivatives”), the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house, rather than a bank or broker. Since the Funds are not members of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Funds will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members. In a cleared derivatives transaction, the Funds will make payments (including margin payments) to and receive payments from a clearing house through their accounts at clearing members. Clearing members guarantee performance of their clients’ obligations to the clearing house.
In many ways, centrally cleared derivative arrangements are less favorable to open-end funds than bilateral arrangements. For example, the Funds may be required to provide greater amounts of margin for cleared derivatives positions than for bilateral derivatives transactions. Also, in contrast to a bilateral derivatives position, following a period of notice to the Fund, a clearing member generally can require termination of an existing cleared derivatives position at any time or increases in margin requirements above the margin that the clearing member required at the beginning of a transaction. Clearing houses also have broad rights to increase margin requirements for existing positions or to terminate those positions at any time. Any increase in margin requirements or termination of existing cleared derivatives positions by the clearing member or the clearing house could interfere with the ability of the Fund to pursue its investment strategy. Further, any increase in margin requirements by a clearing member could also expose the Fund to greater credit risk to its clearing member, because margin for cleared derivatives transactions in excess of clearing house’s margin requirements typically is held by the clearing member. Also, the Fund is subject to risk if it enters into a derivatives transaction that is required to be cleared (or that the Investment Manager expects to be cleared), and no clearing member is willing or able to clear the transaction on the Fund’s behalf. While the documentation in place between the Fund and its clearing members generally provides that the clearing members will accept for clearing all transactions submitted for clearing that are within credit limits (specified in advance) for the Fund, the Fund is still subject to the risk that no clearing member will be willing or able to clear a transaction. In those cases, the position might have to be terminated, and the Fund could lose some or all of the benefit of the position, including loss of an increase in the value of the position and/or loss of hedging protection. In addition, the documentation governing the relationship between the Funds and clearing members is developed by the clearing members and generally is less favorable to the Funds than typical bilateral derivatives documentation. For example, documentation relating to cleared derivatives generally includes a one-way indemnity by the Funds in favor of the clearing member for losses the clearing member incurs as the Funds’ clearing member and typically does not provide the Funds any remedies if the clearing member defaults or becomes insolvent. While futures contracts entail similar risks, the risks likely are more pronounced for cleared swaps due to their more limited liquidity and market history.
Some types of cleared derivatives are required to be executed on an exchange or on a swap execution facility. A swap execution facility is a trading platform where multiple market participants can execute derivatives by accepting bids and offers made by multiple other participants in the platform. While this execution requirement is designed to increase transparency and liquidity in the cleared derivatives market, trading on a swap execution facility can create additional costs and risks for the Funds. For example, swap execution facilities typically charge fees, and if the Fund executes derivatives on a swap execution facility through a broker intermediary, the intermediary may impose fees as well. Also, the Fund may indemnify a swap execution facility, or a broker intermediary who executes cleared derivatives on a swap execution facility on the Fund’s behalf, against any losses or costs that may be incurred as a result of the Fund’s transactions on the swap execution facility.
These and other new rules and regulations could, among other things, further restrict the Fund’s ability to engage in, or increase the cost to the Fund of, derivatives transactions, for example, by making some types of derivatives no longer available to the Fund, increasing margin or capital requirements, or otherwise limiting liquidity or increasing transaction costs. These regulations are new and evolving, so their potential impact on the Funds and the financial system are not yet known. While the new regulations and the central clearing of some derivatives transactions are designed to reduce systemic risk (i.e., the risk that the interdependence of large derivatives dealers could cause a number of those dealers to suffer liquidity, solvency or other challenges simultaneously), there is no assurance that the new clearing mechanisms will achieve that result, and in the meantime, as noted above, central clearing and related requirements expose the Funds to new kinds of risks and costs.
CFTC Regulation
The Fund qualifies for an exclusion from the definition of a commodity pool under the CEA and has on file a notice of exclusion under CFTC Rule 4.5. Accordingly, the Investment Manager is not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool operator under the CEA with respect to these Funds, although the Investment Manager is a registered commodity pool operator and “commodity trading advisor”. To remain eligible for the exclusion, each of these Funds is limited in its ability to
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use certain financial instruments regulated under the CEA (“commodity interests”), including futures and options on futures and certain swaps transactions. In the event that the Fund’s investments in commodity interests are not within the thresholds set forth in the exclusion, one or more Funds not currently registered as a commodity pool may be required to register as such, which could increase Fund expenses, adversely affecting the Fund’s total return.
Dollar Rolls
Dollar rolls involve selling securities (e.g., mortgage-backed securities or U.S. Treasury securities) and simultaneously entering into a commitment to purchase those or similar securities on a specified future date and price from the same party. Mortgage dollar rolls and U.S. Treasury rolls are types of dollar rolls. The Fund foregoes principal and interest paid on the securities during the “roll” period. The Fund is compensated by the difference between the current sales price and the lower forward price for the future purchase of the securities, as well as the interest earned on the cash proceeds of the initial sale. The investor also could be compensated through the receipt of fee income equivalent to a lower forward price. Dollar roll transactions may result in higher transaction costs for the Fund.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with mortgage dollar rolls include: Counterparty Risk, Credit Risk and Interest Rate Risk.
Exchange-Traded Notes (ETNs)
ETNs are instruments that combine aspects of bonds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and are designed to provide investors with access to the returns, less investor fees and expenses, of various market benchmarks or strategies to which they are usually linked. When an investor buys an ETN, the issuer, typically an underwriting bank, promises to pay upon maturity the amount reflected in the benchmark or strategy (minus fees and expenses). Some ETNs make periodic coupon payments. Like ETFs, ETNs are traded on an exchange, but ETNs have additional risks compared to ETFs, including the risk that if the credit of the ETN issuer becomes suspect, the investment might lose some or all of its value. Though linked to the performance, for example, of a market benchmark, ETNs are not equities or index funds, but they do share several characteristics. Similar to equities, ETNs are traded on an exchange and can be sold short. Similar to index funds, ETNs may be linked to the return of a benchmark or strategy, but ETNs do not have an ownership interest in the instruments underlying the benchmark or strategy the ETN is tracking.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with exchange-traded notes include: Counterparty Risk, Credit Risk and Market Risk.
Foreign Currency Transactions
Because investments in foreign securities usually involve currencies of foreign countries and because the Fund may hold cash and cash equivalent investments in foreign currencies, the value of the Fund’s assets as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected favorably or unfavorably by changes in currency exchange rates and exchange control regulations. Also, the Fund may incur costs in connection with conversions between various currencies. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time, causing the Fund’s NAV to fluctuate. Currency exchange rates are generally determined by the forces of supply and demand in the foreign exchange markets, actual or anticipated changes in interest rates, and other complex factors. Currency exchange rates also can be affected by the intervention of U.S. or foreign governments or central banks, or the failure to intervene, or by currency controls or political developments.
Spot Rates and Derivative Instruments. The Fund may conduct its foreign currency exchange transactions either at the spot (cash) rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market or by entering into forward foreign currency exchange contracts (forward contracts). (See Types of Investments – Derivatives.) These contracts are traded in the interbank market conducted directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. Because foreign currency transactions occurring in the interbank market might involve substantially larger amounts than those involved in the use of such derivative instruments, the Fund could be disadvantaged by having to deal in the odd lot market for the underlying foreign currencies at prices that are less favorable than for round lots.
The Fund may enter into forward contracts for a variety of reasons, including for risk management (hedging) or for investment purposes.
When the Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security denominated in a foreign currency or has been notified of a dividend or interest payment, it may desire to lock in the price of the security or the amount of the payment, usually in U.S. dollars, although it could desire to lock in the price of the security in another currency. By entering into a forward contract, the Fund would be able to protect itself against a possible loss resulting from an adverse change in the relationship between different currencies from the date the security is purchased or sold to the date on which payment is made or received or when the dividend or interest is actually received.
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The Fund may enter into forward contracts when management of the Fund believes the currency of a particular foreign country may decline in value relative to another currency. When selling currencies forward in this fashion, the Fund may seek to hedge the value of foreign securities it holds against an adverse move in exchange rates. The precise matching of forward contract amounts and the value of securities involved generally will not be possible since the future value of securities in foreign currencies more than likely will change between the date the forward contract is entered into and the date it matures. The projection of short-term currency market movements is extremely difficult and successful execution of a short-term hedging strategy is highly uncertain.
This method of protecting the value of the Fund’s securities against a decline in the value of a currency does not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the securities. It simply establishes a rate of exchange that can be achieved at some point in time. Although forward contracts can be used to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in value of hedged currency, they will also limit any potential gain that might result should the value of such currency increase.
The Fund may also enter into forward contracts when the Fund’s portfolio manager believes the currency of a particular country will increase in value relative to another currency. The Fund may buy currencies forward to gain exposure to a currency without incurring the additional costs of purchasing securities denominated in that currency.
For example, the combination of U.S. dollar-denominated instruments with long forward currency exchange contracts creates a position economically equivalent to a position in the foreign currency, in anticipation of an increase in the value of the foreign currency against the U.S. dollar. Conversely, the combination of U.S. dollar-denominated instruments with short forward currency exchange contracts is economically equivalent to borrowing the foreign currency for delivery at a specified date in the future, in anticipation of a decrease in the value of the foreign currency against the U.S. dollar.
Unanticipated changes in the currency exchange results could result in poorer performance for Funds that enter into these types of transactions.
At maturity of a forward contract, the Fund may either deliver (if a contract to sell) or take delivery of (if a contract to buy) the foreign currency or terminate its contractual obligation by entering into an offsetting contract with the same currency trader, having the same maturity date, and covering the same amount of foreign currency.
If the Fund engages in an offsetting transaction, it will incur a gain or loss to the extent there has been movement in forward contract prices. If the Fund engages in an offsetting transaction, it may subsequently enter into a new forward contract to buy or sell the foreign currency.
Although the Fund values its assets each business day in terms of U.S. dollars, it may not intend to convert its foreign currencies into U.S. dollars on a daily basis. However, it will do so from time to time, and such conversions involve certain currency conversion costs. Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a fee for conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference (spread) between the prices at which they buy and sell various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency to the Fund at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the Fund desire to resell that currency to the dealer.
It is possible, under certain circumstances, including entering into forward currency contracts for investment purposes, that the Fund will be required to limit or restructure its forward contract currency transactions to qualify as a “regulated investment company” under the Code.
Options on Foreign Currencies. The Fund may buy put and call options and write covered call and cash-secured put options on foreign currencies for hedging purposes and to gain exposure to foreign currencies. For example, a decline in the dollar value of a foreign currency in which securities are denominated will reduce the dollar value of such securities, even if their value in the foreign currency remains constant. In order to protect against the diminutions in the value of securities, the Fund may buy put options on the foreign currency. If the value of the currency does decline, the Fund would have the right to sell the currency for a fixed amount in dollars and would thereby offset, in whole or in part, the adverse effect on its portfolio that otherwise would have resulted.
Conversely, where a change in the dollar value of a currency would increase the cost of securities the Fund plans to buy, or where the Fund would benefit from increased exposure to the currency, the Fund may buy call options on the foreign currency, giving it the right to purchase the currency for a fixed amount in dollars. The purchase of the options could offset, at least partially, the changes in exchange rates.
As in the case of other types of options, however, the benefit to the Fund derived from purchases of foreign currency options would be reduced by the amount of the premium and related transaction costs. In addition, where currency exchange rates do not move in the direction or to the extent anticipated, the Fund could sustain losses on transactions in foreign currency options that would require it to forego a portion or all of the benefits of advantageous changes in rates.
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The Fund may write options on foreign currencies for similar purposes. For example, when the Fund anticipates a decline in the dollar value of foreign-denominated securities due to adverse fluctuations in exchange rates, it could, instead of purchasing a put option, write a call option on the relevant currency, giving the option holder the right to purchase that currency from the Fund for a fixed amount in dollars. If the expected decline occurs, the option would most likely not be exercised and the diminution in value of securities would be offset, at least partially, by the amount of the premium received.
Similarly, instead of purchasing a call option when a foreign currency is expected to appreciate, the Fund could write a put option on the relevant currency, giving the option holder the right to that currency from the Fund for a fixed amount in dollars. If rates move in the manner projected, the put option would expire unexercised and allow the Fund to hedge increased cost up to the amount of the premium.
As in the case of other types of options, however, the writing of a foreign currency option will constitute only a partial hedge up to the amount of the premium, and only if rates move in the expected direction. If this does not occur, the option may be exercised and the Fund would be required to buy or sell the underlying currency at a loss that may not be offset by the amount of the premium. Through the writing of options on foreign currencies, the Fund also may be required to forego all or a portion of the benefits that might otherwise have been obtained from favorable movements on exchange rates.
An option written on foreign currencies is covered if the Fund holds currency sufficient to cover the option or has an absolute and immediate right to acquire that currency without additional cash consideration upon conversion of assets denominated in that currency or exchange of other currency held in its portfolio. An option writer could lose amounts substantially in excess of its initial investments, due to the margin and collateral requirements associated with such positions.
Options on foreign currencies are traded through financial institutions acting as market-makers, although foreign currency options also are traded on certain national securities exchanges, such as the Philadelphia Stock Exchange and the Chicago Board Options Exchange, subject to SEC regulation. In an over-the-counter trading environment, many of the protections afforded to exchange participants will not be available. For example, there are no daily price fluctuation limits, and adverse market movements could therefore continue to an unlimited extent over a period of time. Although the purchaser of an option cannot lose more than the amount of the premium plus related transaction costs, this entire amount could be lost.
Foreign currency option positions entered into on a national securities exchange are cleared and guaranteed by the OCC, thereby reducing the risk of counterparty default. Further, a liquid secondary market in options traded on a national securities exchange may be more readily available than in the over-the-counter market, potentially permitting the Fund to liquidate open positions at a profit prior to exercise or expiration, or to limit losses in the event of adverse market movements.
Foreign Currency Futures and Related Options. The Fund may enter into currency futures contracts to buy or sell currencies. It also may buy put and call options and write covered call and cash-secured put options on currency futures. Currency futures contracts are similar to currency forward contracts, except that they are traded on exchanges (and have margin requirements) and are standardized as to contract size and delivery date. Most currency futures call for payment of delivery in U.S. dollars. The Fund may use currency futures for the same purposes as currency forward contracts, subject to CFTC limitations.
Currency futures and options on futures values can be expected to correlate with exchange rates, but will not reflect other factors that may affect the value of the Fund’s investments. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a Yen-denominated bond against a decline in the Yen, but will not protect the Fund against price decline if the issuer’s creditworthiness deteriorates. Because the value of the Fund’s investments denominated in foreign currency will change in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of a forward contract to the value of the Fund’s investments denominated in that currency over time.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with foreign currency transactions include: Foreign Currency Risk, Derivatives Risk, Interest Rate Risk, and Liquidity Risk.
Foreign Securities
Unless otherwise stated in the Fund’s prospectus, stocks, bonds and other securities or investments are deemed to be “foreign” based primarily on the issuer’s place of organization/incorporation, but the Fund may also consider the issuer’s country of organization, domicile, its principal place of business, its primary stock exchange listing, the source of its revenue or other factors. The Fund’s investments in foreign markets, may include issuers in emerging markets, as well as frontier markets, each of which carry heightened risks as compared with investments in other typical foreign markets. Unless otherwise stated in the Fund’s prospectus, emerging market countries are generally those either defined by World Bank-defined per capita income brackets or determined to be an emerging market based on qualitative judgments by the portfolio managers about a country’s level of economic and institutional development, among other factors. Frontier market countries generally have smaller economies and even less developed capital markets than typical emerging market countries (which themselves have increased investment risk relative to investing in more developed markets) and, as a result, the risks of investing in emerging market countries are magnified in frontier market countries. Foreign securities may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate
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obligations or as zero-coupon, pay-in-kind and step-coupon securities and may be privately placed or publicly offered. See Types of Investments — Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations, — Debt Obligations - Zero-Coupon, Pay-in-Kind and Step-Coupon Securities and — Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities for more information.
Due to the potential for foreign withholding taxes, MSCI publishes two versions of its indices reflecting the reinvestment of dividends using two different methodologies: gross dividends and net dividends. While both versions reflect reinvested dividends, they differ with respect to the manner in which taxes associated with dividend payments are treated. In calculating the net dividends version, MSCI incorporates reinvested dividends applying the withholding tax rate applicable to foreign non-resident institutional investors that do not benefit from double taxation treaties. The Investment Manager believes that the net dividends version of MSCI indices better reflects the returns U.S. investors might expect were they to invest directly in the component securities of an MSCI index.
There is a practice in certain foreign markets under which an issuer’s securities are blocked from trading at the custodian or sub-custodian level for a specified number of days before and, in certain instances, after a shareholder meeting where such shares are voted. This is referred to as “share blocking.” The blocking period can last up to several weeks. Share blocking may prevent the Fund from buying or selling securities during this period, because during the time shares are blocked, trades in such securities will not settle. It may be difficult or impossible to lift blocking restrictions, with the particular requirements varying widely by country. As a consequence of these restrictions, the Investment Manager, on behalf of the Fund, may abstain from voting proxies in markets that require share blocking.
Foreign securities may include depositary receipts, such as American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs). ADRs are U.S. dollar-denominated receipts issued in registered form by a domestic bank or trust company that evidence ownership of underlying securities issued by a foreign issuer. EDRs are foreign currency-denominated receipts issued in Europe, typically by foreign banks or trust companies and foreign branches of domestic banks, that evidence ownership of foreign or domestic securities. GDRs are receipts structured similarly to ADRs and EDRs and are marketed globally.
Depositary receipts will not necessarily be denominated in the same currency as their underlying securities. In general, ADRs, in registered form, are designed for use in the U.S. securities markets, and EDRs, in bearer form, are designed for use in European securities markets. GDRs are tradable both in the United States and in Europe and are designed for use throughout the world. The Fund may invest in depositary receipts through “sponsored” or “unsponsored” facilities. A sponsored facility is established jointly by the issuer of the underlying security and a depositary, whereas a depositary may establish an unsponsored facility without participation by the issuer of the deposited security. Holders of unsponsored depositary receipts generally bear all the costs of such facilities and the depositary of an unsponsored facility frequently is under no obligation to distribute interest holder communications received from the issuer of the deposited security or to pass through voting rights to the holders of such receipts in respect of the deposited securities. The issuers of unsponsored depositary receipts are not obligated to disclose material information in the United States, and, therefore, there may be limited information available regarding such issuers and/or limited correlation between available information and the market value of the depositary receipts.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with foreign securities include: Emerging Markets Securities Risk, Foreign Currency Risk, Foreign Securities Risk, Frontier Market Risk, Geographic Focus Risk, Issuer Risk, and Market Risk.
Guaranteed Investment Contracts (Funding Agreements)
Guaranteed investment contracts, or funding agreements, are short-term, privately placed debt instruments issued by insurance companies. Pursuant to such contracts, the Fund may make cash contributions to a deposit fund of the insurance company’s general account. The insurance company then credits to the Fund payments at negotiated, floating or fixed interest rates. The Fund will purchase guaranteed investment contracts only from issuers that, at the time of purchase, meet certain credit and quality standards. In general, guaranteed investment contracts are not assignable or transferable without the permission of the issuing insurance companies, and an active secondary market does not exist for these investments. In addition, the issuer may not be able to pay the principal amount to the Fund on seven days’ notice or less, at which time the investment may be considered illiquid. See Types of Investments – Illiquid Investments.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with guaranteed investment contracts (funding agreements) include: Credit Risk and Liquidity Risk.
High-Yield Securities
High-yield, or low and below investment grade securities (below investment grade securities are also known as “junk bonds”) are debt securities with the lowest investment grade rating (e.g., BBB by S&P and Fitch or Baa by Moody’s Ratings), that are below investment grade (e.g., lower than BBB by S&P and Fitch or Baa by Moody’s Ratings) or that are unrated but determined by the Fund’s portfolio managers to be of comparable quality. These types of securities may be issued to fund corporate transactions or
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restructurings, such as leveraged buyouts, mergers, acquisitions, debt reclassifications or similar events. High-yield securities may be more speculative in nature than securities with higher ratings and tend to be more sensitive to credit risk, particularly during a downturn in the economy. These types of securities may be issued by unseasoned companies without long track records of sales and earnings, or by companies or municipalities that have questionable credit strength. High-yield securities and comparable unrated securities: (i) likely will have some quality and protective characteristics that, in the judgment of one or more NRSROs, are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions; (ii) are speculative with respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation; and (iii) may have a less liquid secondary market, potentially making it difficult to value or sell such securities. Credit ratings issued by credit rating agencies are designed to evaluate the safety of principal and interest payments of rated securities. They do not, however, evaluate the market value risk of lower-quality securities and, therefore, may not fully reflect the true risks of an investment. In addition, credit rating agencies may or may not make timely changes in a rating to reflect changes in the economy or in the condition of the issuer that affect the market value of the securities. Consequently, credit ratings are used only as a preliminary indicator of investment quality. High-yield securities may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate obligations or as zero-coupon, pay-in-kind and step-coupon securities and may be privately placed or publicly offered. See Types of Investments – Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations, – Debt Obligations – Zero-Coupon, Pay-in-Kind and Step-Coupon Securities and – Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities for more information.
The rates of return on these types of securities generally are higher than the rates of return available on more highly rated securities, but generally involve greater volatility of price and risk of loss of principal and income, including the possibility of default by or insolvency of the issuers of such securities. Accordingly, the Fund may be more dependent on the Investment Manager’s (or, if applicable, a subadviser’s) credit analysis with respect to these types of securities than is the case for more highly rated securities.
The market values of certain high-yield securities and comparable unrated securities tend to be more sensitive to individual corporate developments and changes in economic conditions than are the market values of more highly rated securities. In addition, issuers of high-yield and comparable unrated securities often are highly leveraged and may not have more traditional methods of financing available to them, so that their ability to service their debt obligations during an economic downturn or during sustained periods of rising interest rates may be impaired.
The risk of loss due to default is greater for high-yield and comparable unrated securities than it is for higher rated securities because high-yield securities and comparable unrated securities generally are unsecured and frequently are subordinated to more senior indebtedness. The Fund may incur additional expenses to the extent that it is required to seek recovery upon a default in the payment of principal or interest on its holdings of such securities. The existence of limited markets for lower-rated debt securities may diminish the Fund’s ability to: (i) obtain accurate market quotations for purposes of valuing such securities and calculating portfolio net asset value; and (ii) sell the securities at fair market value either to meet redemption requests or to respond to changes in the economy or in financial markets.
Many lower-rated securities are not registered for offer and sale to the public under the 1933 Act. Investments in these restricted securities may be determined to be liquid (able to be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven days or less without the sales or dispositions significantly changing the market value of the investment) pursuant to the Funds’ liquidity risk management program. The Fund may not purchase or otherwise acquire any illiquid investments if, immediately after the acquisition, the value of illiquid investments held by the Fund would exceed 15% of the Fund’s net assets. The Fund is not otherwise subject to any limitation on its ability to invest in restricted securities. Restricted securities may be less liquid than other lower-rated securities, potentially making it difficult to value or sell such securities.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with high-yield securities include: Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, High-Yield Securities Risk and Prepayment and Extension Risk.
Illiquid Investments
An illiquid investment is any investment that the Fund reasonably expects cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. Some securities, such as those not registered under U.S. securities laws, cannot be sold in public transactions. Some securities are deemed to be illiquid because they are subject to contractual or legal restrictions on resale. Subject to its investment policies, the Fund may invest in illiquid investments and may invest in certain restricted securities that are deemed to be illiquid investments at the time of purchase.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risk typically associated with illiquid investments include: Liquidity Risk.
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Inflation-Protected Securities
Inflation is a general rise in prices of goods and services. Inflation erodes the purchasing power of an investor’s assets. For example, if an investment provides a total return of 7% in a given year and inflation is 3% during that period, the inflation-adjusted, or real, return is 4%. Inflation-protected securities are debt securities whose principal and/or interest payments are adjusted for inflation, unlike debt securities that make fixed principal and interest payments. One type of inflation-protected debt security is issued by the U.S. Treasury. The principal of these securities is adjusted for inflation as indicated by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for urban consumers and interest is paid on the adjusted amount. The CPI is a measurement of changes in the cost of living, made up of components such as housing, food, transportation and energy.
If the CPI falls, the principal value of inflation-protected securities will be adjusted downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a smaller principal amount) will be reduced. Conversely, if the CPI rises, the principal value of inflation-protected securities will be adjusted upward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities will be increased. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity is guaranteed in the case of U.S. Treasury inflation-protected securities, even during a period of deflation. However, the current market value of the inflation-protected securities is not guaranteed and will fluctuate. Other inflation-indexed securities include inflation-related bonds, which may or may not provide a similar guarantee. If a guarantee of principal is not provided, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.
Other issuers of inflation-protected debt securities include other U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities, corporations and foreign governments. There can be no assurance that the CPI or any foreign inflation index will accurately measure the real rate of inflation in the prices of goods and services. Moreover, there can be no assurance that the rate of inflation in a foreign country will be correlated to the rate of inflation in the United States. If interest rates rise due to reasons other than inflation (for example, due to changes in currency exchange rates), investors in these securities may not be protected to the extent that the increase is not reflected in the bond’s inflation measure.
Any increase in principal for an inflation-protected security resulting from inflation adjustments is considered by IRS regulations to be taxable income in the year it occurs. For direct holders of an inflation-protected security, this means that taxes must be paid on principal adjustments even though these amounts are not received until the bond matures. Similarly, a Fund treated as a regulated investment company (RIC) under the Code that holds these securities distributes both interest income and the income attributable to principal adjustments in the form of cash or reinvested shares, which are taxable to shareholders.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with inflation-protected securities include: Inflation-Protected Securities Risk, Interest Rate Risk and Market Risk. In addition, inflation-protected securities issued by non-U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities are subject to Credit Risk.
Initial Public Offerings
The Fund may invest in initial public offerings (IPOs) of common stock or other primary or secondary syndicated offerings of equity or debt securities issued by a corporate issuer. Fixed income funds frequently invest in these types of offerings of debt securities. A purchase of IPO securities often involves higher transaction costs than those associated with the purchase of securities already traded on exchanges or markets. The Fund may hold IPO securities for a period of time, or may sell them soon after the purchase. Investments in IPOs could have a magnified impact — either positive or negative — on the Fund’s performance while the Fund’s assets are relatively small. The impact of an IPO on the Fund’s performance may tend to diminish as the Fund’s assets grow. In circumstances when investments in IPOs make a significant contribution to the Fund’s performance, there can be no assurance that similar contributions from IPOs will continue in the future.
Although one or more risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with IPOs include: IPO Risk, Issuer Risk, Liquidity Risk, Market Risk, and Small Company Securities Risk.
Inverse Floaters
See Types of Investments – Derivatives – Indexed or Linked Securities (Structured Products) above.
Investments in Other Investment Companies (Including ETFs)
Investing in other investment companies may be a means by which the Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective. The Fund may invest in securities issued by other investment companies within the limits prescribed by the 1940 Act, the rules and regulations thereunder and any exemptive relief currently or in the future available to the Fund. These securities include shares of other affiliated or unaffiliated open-end investment companies (i.e., mutual funds), closed-end funds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), UCITS funds (pooled investment vehicles established in accordance with the Undertaking for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities) and business development companies.
Except with respect to funds structured as funds-of-funds or so-called master/feeder funds or other funds whose strategies otherwise allow such investments, the 1940 Act generally requires that a fund limit its investments in another investment company or series thereof so that, as determined at the time a securities purchase is made: (i) no more than 5% of the value of its
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total assets will be invested in the securities of any one investment company; (ii) no more than 10% of the value of its total assets will be invested in the aggregate in securities of other investment companies; and (iii) no more than 3% of the outstanding voting stock of any one investment company or series thereof will be owned by a fund or by companies controlled by a fund. Such other investment companies may include ETFs, which are shares of publicly traded unit investment trusts, open-end funds or depositary receipts that may be passively managed (e.g., they seek to track the performance of specific indexes or companies in related industries) or they may be actively managed. The SEC has granted orders for exemptive relief to certain ETFs that permit investments in those ETFs by certain other registered investment companies in excess of these limits.
ETFs are listed on an exchange and trade in the secondary market on a per-share basis, which allows investors to purchase and sell ETF shares at their market price throughout the day. Certain ETFs, such as passively managed ETFs, hold portfolios of securities that are designed to replicate, as closely as possible before expenses, the price and yield of a specified market index. The performance results of these ETFs will not replicate exactly the performance of the pertinent index due to transaction and other expenses, including fees to service providers borne by ETFs. ETF shares are sold and redeemed at net asset value only in large blocks called creation units. The Funds’ ability to redeem creation units may be limited by the 1940 Act, which provides that ETFs will not be obligated to redeem shares held by the Funds in an amount exceeding one percent of their total outstanding securities during any period of less than 30 days.
Although the Fund may derive certain advantages from being able to invest in shares of other investment companies, such as to be fully invested, there may be potential disadvantages. Investing in other investment companies may result in higher fees and expenses for the Fund and its shareholders. A shareholder may be charged fees not only on Fund shares held directly but also on the investment company shares that the Fund purchases. Because these investment companies may invest in other securities, they are also subject to the risks associated with a variety of investment instruments as described in this SAI.
Under the 1940 Act and rules and regulations thereunder, the Fund may purchase shares of affiliated funds, subject to certain conditions. Investing in affiliated funds presents certain actual or potential conflicts of interest. For more information about such actual and potential conflicts of interest, see Investment Management and Other Services – Other Roles and Relationships of Ameriprise Financial and its Affiliates – Certain Conflicts of Interest.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with the securities of other investment companies include: Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) Risk, Investing in Other Funds Risk, Issuer Risk and Market Risk.
Listed Private Equity Funds
The Fund may invest directly in listed private equity funds, which may include, among others, business development companies, investment holding companies, publicly traded limited partnership interests (common units), publicly traded venture capital funds, publicly traded venture capital trusts, publicly traded private equity funds, publicly traded private equity investment trusts, publicly traded closed-end funds, publicly traded financial institutions that lend to or invest in privately held companies and any other publicly traded vehicle whose purpose is to invest in privately held companies.
The Fund may invest in listed private equity funds that hold investments in a wide array of businesses and industries at various stages of development, from early stage to later stage to fully mature businesses. The Fund may invest in listed private equity funds that emphasize making equity and equity-like (preferred stock, convertible stock and warrants) investments in later stage to mature businesses, or may invest in listed private equity funds making debt investments or investments in companies at other stages of development. In addition, the Fund may invest in the common stock of closed-end management investment companies, including business development companies that invest in securities of listed private equity companies.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with investment in listed private equity funds include: Credit Risk, Liquidity Risk, Market Risk, Sector Risk, and Valuation Risk.
Money Market Instruments
Money market instruments include cash equivalents and short-term debt obligations which include: (i) bank obligations, including certificates of deposit (CDs), time deposits and bankers’ acceptances, and letters of credit of banks or savings and loan associations having capital surplus and undivided profits (as of the date of its most recently published annual financial statements) in excess of $100 million (or the equivalent in the instance of a foreign branch of a U.S. bank) at the date of investment; (ii) funding agreements; (iii) repurchase agreements; (iv) obligations of the United States, foreign countries and supranational entities, and each of their subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities; (v) certain corporate debt securities, such as commercial paper, short-term corporate obligations and extendible commercial notes; (vi) participation interests; and (vii) municipal securities. Money market instruments may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate obligations and may be privately placed or publicly offered. The Fund may also invest in affiliated and unaffiliated money market mutual funds, which invest primarily in money market instruments. See Types of Investments — Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations and — Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities for more information.
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With respect to money market securities, certain U.S. Government obligations are backed or insured by the U.S. Government, its agencies or its instrumentalities. Other money market securities are backed only by the claims paying ability or creditworthiness of the issuer.
Bankers’ acceptances are marketable short-term credit instruments used to finance the import, export, transfer or storage of goods. They are termed “accepted” when a bank unconditionally guarantees their payment at maturity.
The Fund may invest its daily cash balance in Columbia Short-Term Cash Fund, a money market fund established for the exclusive use of the funds in the Columbia Fund Complex and other institutional clients of the Investment Manager.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with money market instruments include: Credit Risk, Inflation Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk and Money Market Fund Risk.
Mortgage-Backed Securities
Mortgage-backed securities are a type of asset-backed security that represent interests in, or debt instruments backed by, pools of underlying mortgages. In some cases, these underlying mortgages may be insured or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies. Mortgage-backed securities entitle the security holders to receive distributions that are tied to the payments made on the underlying mortgage collateral (less fees paid to the originator, servicer, or other parties, and fees paid for credit enhancement), so that the payments made on the underlying mortgage collateral effectively pass through to such security holders. Mortgage-backed securities are created when mortgage originators (or mortgage loan sellers who have purchased mortgage loans from mortgage loan originators) sell the underlying mortgages to a special purpose entity in a process called a securitization. The special purpose entity issues securities that are backed by the payments on the underlying mortgage loans, and have a minimum denomination and specific term. A decline or flattening of housing values may cause delinquencies in mortgages (especially sub-prime or non-prime mortgages) underlying mortgage-backed securities and thereby adversely affect the ability of the mortgage-backed securities issuer to make principal and/or interest payments to mortgage-backed securities holders. Mortgage-backed securities may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate obligations or as zero-coupon, pay-in-kind and step-coupon securities and may be privately placed or publicly offered. See Types of Investments — Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations, — Debt Obligations - Zero-Coupon, Pay-in-Kind and Step-Coupon Securities and — Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities for more information.
Mortgage-backed securities may be issued or guaranteed by Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA or Ginnie Mae), Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA or Fannie Mae), or Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC or Freddie Mac), but also may be issued or guaranteed by other issuers, including private companies. GNMA is a government-owned corporation that is an agency of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. It guarantees, with the full faith and credit of the United States, full and timely payment of all monthly principal and interest on its mortgage-backed securities. Before 2008, FNMA and FHLMC were government-sponsored corporations owned entirely by private stockholders. Both issue mortgage-related securities that contain guarantees as to timely payment of interest and principal but that are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. The value of the FNMA’s and FHLMC’s securities fell sharply in 2008 due to concerns that they did not have sufficient capital to offset losses. The U.S. Treasury has historically had the authority to purchase obligations of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. In addition, in 2008, due to capitalization concerns, Congress provided the U.S. Treasury with additional authority to lend Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac emergency funds and to purchase the companies’ stock, as described below. In September 2008, the U.S. Treasury and the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac had been placed in conservatorship, a statutory process with the objective of returning the entities to normal business operations.
In the past, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have received significant capital support through U.S. Treasury preferred stock purchases and Federal Reserve purchases of their mortgage-backed securities. There can be no assurance that these or other agencies of the government will provide such support in the future. The future status of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac could be impacted by, among other things, the actions taken and restrictions placed on Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac by the FHFA in its role as conservator, the restrictions placed on Fannie Mae’s or Freddie Mac’s operations and activities under the senior stock purchase agreements, market responses to developments at Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, and future legislative and regulatory action that alters the operations, ownership structure and/or mission of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, each of which may, in turn, impact the value of, and cash flows on, any securities guaranteed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Should Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac be taken out of conservatorship, it is unclear whether the U.S. Treasury would continue to enforce its rights or perform its current obligations under the senior stock purchase agreements. It is also unclear how the capital structure of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac would be constructed post-conservatorship, and what effects, if any, the privatization of the enterprises would have on their creditworthiness and guarantees of certain mortgage-backed securities. Accordingly, should the FHFA take Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac out of conservatorship, there could be an adverse impact on the value of securities they guarantee, which could cause the Fund’s shares to lose value.
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Stripped mortgage-backed securities are a type of mortgage-backed security that receives differing proportions of the interest and principal payments from the underlying assets. Generally, there are two classes of stripped mortgage-backed securities: Interest Only (IO) and Principal Only (PO). IOs entitle the holder to receive distributions consisting of all or a portion of the interest on the underlying pool of mortgage loans or mortgage-backed securities. POs entitle the holder to receive distributions consisting of all or a portion of the principal of the underlying pool of mortgage loans or mortgage-backed securities. See Types of Investments — Debt Obligations - Stripped Securities for more information.
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (CMOs) are hybrid mortgage-related instruments issued by special purpose entities secured by pools of mortgage loans or other mortgage-related securities, such as mortgage pass-through securities or stripped mortgage-backed securities. CMOs may be structured into multiple classes, often referred to as “tranches,” with each class bearing a different stated maturity and entitled to a different schedule for payments of principal and interest, including prepayments. Principal prepayments on collateral underlying a CMO may cause it to be retired substantially earlier than its stated maturity or final distribution dates, resulting in a loss of all or part of the premium if any has been paid. The yield characteristics of mortgage-backed securities differ from those of other debt securities. Among the differences are that interest and principal payments are made more frequently on mortgage-backed securities, usually monthly, and principal may be repaid at any time. These factors may reduce the expected yield. Interest is paid or accrues on all classes of the CMOs on a periodic basis. The principal and interest payments on the underlying mortgage assets may be allocated among the various classes of CMOs in several ways. Typically, payments of principal, including any prepayments, on the underlying mortgage assets are applied to the classes in the order of their respective stated maturities or final distribution dates, so that no payment of principal is made on CMOs of a class until all CMOs of other classes having earlier stated maturities or final distribution dates have been paid in full.
Commercial mortgage-backed securities are a specific type of mortgage-backed security collateralized by a pool of mortgages on commercial real estate.
CMO residuals are mortgage securities issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. Government or by private originators of, or investors in, mortgage loans, including savings and loan associations, homebuilders, mortgage banks, commercial banks, investment banks and special purpose entities of the foregoing. The cash flow generated by the mortgage assets underlying a series of CMOs is applied first to make required payments of principal and interest on the CMOs and second to pay the related administrative expenses and any management fee of the issuer. The residual in a CMO structure generally represents the interest in any excess cash flow remaining after making the foregoing payments. Each payment of such excess cash flow to a holder of the related CMO residual represents income and/or a return of capital. The amount of residual cash flow resulting from a CMO will depend on, among other things, the characteristics of the mortgage assets, the coupon rate of each class of CMO, prevailing interest rates, the amount of administrative expenses and the pre-payment experience on the mortgage assets. In particular, the yield to maturity on CMO residuals is extremely sensitive to pre-payments on the related underlying mortgage assets, in the same manner as an interest-only (IO) class of stripped mortgage-backed securities. In addition, if a series of a CMO includes a class that bears interest at an adjustable rate, the yield to maturity on the related CMO residual will also be extremely sensitive to changes in the level of the index upon which interest rate adjustments are based. As described below with respect to stripped mortgage-backed securities, in certain circumstances an ETF may fail to recoup fully its initial investment in a CMO residual. CMO residuals are generally purchased and sold by institutional investors through several investment banking firms acting as brokers or dealers. Transactions in CMO residuals are generally completed only after careful review of the characteristics of the securities in question. In addition, CMO residuals may or, pursuant to an exemption therefrom, may not have been registered under the 1933 Act. CMO residuals, whether or not registered under the 1933 Act, may be subject to certain restrictions on transferability, and may be deemed “illiquid” and subject to the Fund’s limitations on investment in illiquid investments.
Mortgage pass-through securities are interests in pools of mortgage-related securities that differ from other forms of debt securities, which normally provide for periodic payment of interest in fixed amounts with principal payments at maturity or specified call dates. Instead, these securities provide a monthly payment which consists of both interest and principal payments. In effect, these payments are a “pass-through” of the monthly payments made by the individual borrowers on their residential or commercial mortgage loans, net of any fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of such securities. Additional payments are caused by repayments of principal resulting from the sale of the underlying property, refinancing or foreclosure, net of fees or costs which may be incurred. Some mortgage-related securities (such as securities issued by the GNMA) are described as “modified pass-through.” These securities entitle the holder to receive all interest and principal payments owed on the mortgage pool, net of certain fees, at the scheduled payment dates regardless of whether or not the mortgagor actually makes the payment.
REMICs are entities that own mortgages and elect REMIC status under the Code and, like CMOs, issue debt obligations collateralized by underlying mortgage assets that have characteristics similar to those issued by CMOs.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with mortgage- and asset-backed securities include: Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk, Liquidity Risk, Mortgage- and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk, Prepayment and Extension Risk and Reinvestment Risk.
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Municipal Securities
Municipal securities include debt obligations issued by governmental entities, including states, political subdivisions, agencies, instrumentalities, and authorities, as well as U.S. territories, commonwealths and possessions (such as Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and their political subdivisions, agencies, instrumentalities, and authorities, to obtain funds for various public purposes, including the construction of a wide range of public facilities, the refunding of outstanding obligations, the payment of general operating expenses, and the extension of loans to public institutions and facilities.
Municipal securities may include municipal bonds, municipal notes and municipal leases, which are described below. Municipal bonds are debt obligations of a governmental entity that obligate the municipality to pay the holder a specified sum of money at specified intervals and to repay the principal amount of the loan at maturity. Municipal securities can be classified into two principal categories, including “general obligation” bonds and other securities and “revenue” bonds and other securities. General obligation bonds are secured by the issuer’s full faith, credit and taxing power for the payment of principal and interest. Revenue securities are payable only from the revenues derived from a particular facility or class of facilities or, in some cases, from the proceeds of a special excise tax or other specific revenue source, such as the user of the facility being financed. Municipal securities also may include “moral obligation” securities, which normally are issued by special purpose public authorities. If the issuer of moral obligation securities is unable to meet its debt service obligations from current revenues, it may draw on a reserve fund, the restoration of which is a moral commitment but not a legal obligation of the governmental entity that created the special purpose public authority. Municipal securities may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate obligations or as zero-coupon, pay-in-kind and step-coupon securities and may be privately placed or publicly offered. See Types of Investments – Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations, – Debt Obligations – Zero-Coupon, Pay-in-Kind and Step-Coupon Securities and – Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities for more information.
Municipal notes may be issued by governmental entities and other tax-exempt issuers in order to finance short-term cash needs or, occasionally, to finance construction. Most municipal notes are general obligations of the issuing entity payable from taxes or designated revenues expected to be received within the relevant fiscal period. Municipal notes generally have maturities of one year or less. Municipal notes can be subdivided into two sub-categories: (i) municipal commercial paper and (ii) municipal demand obligations.
Municipal commercial paper typically consists of very short-term unsecured negotiable promissory notes that are sold, for example, to meet seasonal working capital or interim construction financing needs of a governmental entity or agency. While these obligations are intended to be paid from general revenues or refinanced with long-term debt, they frequently are backed by letters of credit, lending agreements, note repurchase agreements or other credit facility agreements offered by banks or institutions. See Types of Investments – Commercial Paper for more information.
Municipal demand obligations can be subdivided into two general types: variable rate demand notes and master demand obligations. Variable rate demand notes are tax-exempt municipal obligations or participation interests that provide for a periodic adjustment in the interest rate paid on the notes. They permit the holder to demand payment of the notes, or to demand purchase of the notes at a purchase price equal to the unpaid principal balance, plus accrued interest either directly by the issuer or by drawing on a bank letter of credit or guaranty issued with respect to such note. The issuer of the municipal obligation may have a corresponding right to prepay at its discretion the outstanding principal of the note plus accrued interest upon notice comparable to that required for the holder to demand payment. The variable rate demand notes in which the Fund may invest are payable, or are subject to purchase, on demand, usually on notice of seven calendar days or less. The terms of the notes generally provide that interest rates are adjustable at intervals ranging from daily to six months.
Master demand obligations are tax-exempt municipal obligations that provide for a periodic adjustment in the interest rate paid and permit daily changes in the amount borrowed. The interest on such obligations is, in the opinion of counsel for the borrower, excluded from gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes (but not necessarily for alternative minimum tax purposes). Although there is no secondary market for master demand obligations, such obligations are considered by the Fund to be liquid because they are payable upon demand.
Municipal lease obligations are participations in privately arranged loans to state or local government borrowers and may take the form of a lease, an installment purchase, or a conditional sales contract. They are issued by state and local governments and authorities to acquire land, equipment, and facilities. An investor may purchase these obligations directly, or it may purchase participation interests in such obligations. In general, municipal lease obligations are unrated, in which case they will be determined by the Fund’s portfolio manager to be of comparable quality at the time of purchase to rated instruments that may be acquired by the Fund. Frequently, privately arranged loans have variable interest rates and may be backed by a bank letter of credit. In other cases, they may be unsecured or may be secured by assets not easily liquidated.
Moreover, such loans in most cases are not backed by the taxing authority of the issuers and may have limited marketability or may be marketable only by virtue of a provision requiring repayment following demand by the lender.
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Municipal leases may be subject to greater risks than general obligation or revenue bonds. State constitutions and statutes set forth requirements that states or municipalities must meet in order to issue municipal obligations. Municipal leases may contain a covenant by the state or municipality to budget for and make payments due under the obligation. Certain municipal leases may, however, provide that the issuer is not obligated to make payments on the obligation in future years unless funds have been appropriated for this purpose each year.
Although lease obligations do not constitute general obligations of the municipal issuer to which the government’s taxing power is pledged, a lease obligation ordinarily is backed by the government’s covenant to budget for, appropriate, and make the payments due under the lease obligation. However, certain lease obligations contain “non-appropriation” clauses that provide that the government has no obligation to make lease or installment purchase payments in future years unless money is appropriated for such purpose on a periodic basis. In the case of a “non-appropriation” lease, the Fund’s ability to recover under the lease in the event of non-appropriation or default likely will be limited to the repossession of the leased property in the event that foreclosure proves difficult.
The Fund may invest in certificates issued in tender option bond (TOB) transactions. A TOB is a common way of referring to floating rate certificates issued by a special purpose trust into which one or more municipal instruments are deposited. In a TOB transaction, the TOB trust issues two classes of securities. The first class, the floating rate certificates (floaters), is typically sold to third-party investors and pays an interest rate that is reset periodically based on a specified index. The second class, the inverse floating rate certificates (inverse floaters), is typically issued to the investor(s) that deposited the municipal instruments into the TOB trust, and pays an interest rate based on the difference between the interest rate earned on the underlying municipal instruments and the interest rate paid on the floaters, after expenses. The Fund may invest in both floaters and inverse floaters. The Fund may purchase an inverse floater in the secondary market or from the TOB trust where the municipal instrument held by the trust was either owned or identified by the Fund. The floaters typically have first priority on the cash flow from the municipal instrument held by the TOB trust, and the remaining cash flow, less certain expenses, is paid to holders of the inverse floaters. Where the municipal instrument held by the TOB trust was either owned or identified by the Fund, the net proceeds of the sale of the floaters, after expenses, may be received by the Fund and may be invested in additional securities. This would generate economic leverage for the Fund.
Holders of the floaters generally have the right to tender such securities back to the TOB trust for par plus accrued interest. A remarketing agent for the trust is required to attempt to re-sell any tendered floaters to new investors for the purchase price (the stated amount of the floaters plus accrued interest). If the remarketing agent is unable to successfully re-sell the tendered floaters, depending on the structure of the trust, a liquidity provider to the trust may elect to cause the trust to sell the municipal instruments held by the trust in an amount sufficient to purchase any tendered floaters or may provide a loan to the trust, the proceeds of which will be used to purchase the tendered floaters.
Holders of the inverse floaters typically have the right to partially or totally collapse their interest in the TOB trust by causing the holders of a proportional share of the floaters to tender their notes to the TOB trust at par plus accrued interest. Thereafter, holders of the inverse floaters may withdraw a corresponding share of the municipal instruments from the TOB trust.
Because holders of the floaters have the right to tender their securities to the TOB trust at par plus accrued interest, holders of the inverse floaters are exposed to all of the gains or losses on the underlying municipal bonds, despite the fact that their net cash investment is significantly less than the value of those bonds. This multiplies the positive or negative impact of the underlying bonds’ price movements on the value of the inverse floaters, thereby creating effective leverage.
Due to the leveraged nature of these investments, the value of an inverse floater will increase and decrease to a greater extent than the value of the TOB trust’s underlying municipal bonds in response to changes in market interest rates or credit quality. An investment in inverse floaters typically will involve greater risk than an investment in a fixed rate municipal bond.
Inverse floaters have variable interest rates that typically move in the opposite direction from movements in prevailing interest rates, most often short-term rates. Accordingly, the value of inverse floaters, or other obligations or certificates structured to have similar features, generally moves in the opposite direction from interest rates. The value of an inverse floater can be more volatile than the value of other debt instruments of comparable maturity and quality; during periods of rising interest rates, the prices of inverse floaters will tend to decline more quickly than those of fixed rate instruments. Inverse floaters incorporate varying degrees of leverage. Generally, greater leverage results in greater price volatility for any given change in interest rates.
A TOB transaction typically provides for the automatic termination of the trust upon the occurrence of certain adverse events. These events may include, among others, a credit rating downgrade or decrease in the value of the underlying municipal instruments below a specified level, a bankruptcy of the liquidity provider or the inability of the remarketing agent to re-sell to new investors floaters that have been tendered for repurchase. Following such an event, the underlying municipal instruments are generally sold for current market value and the proceeds generally distributed first to holders of the floaters in an amount equal
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to the purchase price of their securities plus accrued interest and then to the holders of the inverse floaters. The sale of the underlying municipal instruments following such an event could be at an adverse price that might result in the loss by the Fund of a substantial portion, or even all, of its investment in the related inverse floater.
Inverse floaters may be subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale and therefore may be less liquid than other types of securities. In addition, inverse floaters are subject to the risk that the structure does not work as intended and are subject to the credit risk of any third party service provider and to the third party service provider's ability or willingness to perform in accordance with the terms of the arrangement.
There are variations in the quality of municipal securities, both within a particular classification and between classifications, and the rates of return on municipal securities can depend on a variety of factors, including general money market conditions, the financial condition of the issuer, general conditions of the municipal bond market, the size of a particular offering, the maturity of the obligation, and the rating of the issue. The ratings of NRSROs represent their opinions as to the quality of municipal securities. It should be emphasized, however, that these ratings are general and are not absolute standards of quality, and municipal securities with the same maturity, interest rate, and rating may have different rates of return while municipal securities of the same maturity and interest rate with different ratings may have the same rate of return. The municipal bond market is characterized by a large number of different issuers, many having smaller sized bond issues, and a wide choice of different maturities within each issue. For these reasons, most municipal bonds do not trade on a daily basis and many trade only rarely. Because many of these bonds trade infrequently, the spread between the bid and offer may be wider and the time needed to develop a bid or an offer may be longer than for other security markets. See Appendix A for a discussion of securities ratings. (See Types of Investments – Debt Obligations.)
Standby Commitments. Standby commitments are securities under which a purchaser, usually a bank or broker-dealer, agrees to purchase, for a fee, an amount of the Fund’s municipal obligations. The amount payable by a bank or broker-dealer to purchase securities subject to a standby commitment typically will be substantially the same as the value of the underlying municipal securities. The Fund may pay for standby commitments either separately in cash or by paying a higher price for portfolio securities that are acquired subject to such a commitment.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with standby commitments include: Counterparty Risk, Market Risk, and Municipal Securities Risk.
Taxable Municipal Obligations. Interest or other investment return is subject to federal income tax for certain types of municipal obligations for a variety of reasons. These municipal obligations do not qualify for the federal income tax exemption because (a) they did not receive necessary authorization for tax-exempt treatment from state or local government authorities, (b) they exceed certain regulatory limitations on the cost of issuance for tax-exempt financing or (c) they finance public or private activities that do not qualify for the federal income tax exemption. These non-qualifying activities might include, for example, certain types of multi-family housing, certain professional and local sports facilities, refinancing of certain municipal debt, and borrowing to replenish a municipality’s underfunded pension plan.
See Appendix A for a discussion of securities ratings. (See Types of Investments – Debt Obligations.)
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with municipal securities include: Credit Risk, Inflation Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Market Risk, and Municipal Securities Risk.
Participation Interests
Participation interests (also called pass-through certificates or securities) represent an interest in a pool of debt obligations, such as municipal bonds or notes that have been “packaged” by an intermediary, such as a bank or broker-dealer. Participation interests typically are issued by partnerships or trusts through which the Fund receives principal and interest payments that are passed through to the holder of the participation interest from the payments made on the underlying debt obligations. The purchaser of a participation interest receives an undivided interest in the underlying debt obligations. The issuers of the underlying debt obligations make interest and principal payments to the intermediary, as an initial purchaser, which are passed through to purchasers in the secondary market, such as the Fund. Mortgage-backed securities are a common type of participation interest. Participation interests may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate obligations or as zero-coupon, pay-in- kind and step-coupon securities and may be privately placed or publicly offered. See Types of Investments – Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations, – Debt Obligations – Zero-Coupon, Pay-in-Kind and Step-Coupon Securities and – Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities for more information.
Loan participations also are a type of participation interest. Loans, loan participations, and interests in securitized loan pools are interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other borrower to a lender or consortium of lenders (typically banks, insurance companies, investment banks, government agencies, or international agencies).
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with loan participations include: Confidential Information Access Risk, Credit Risk, and Interest Rate Risk.
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Partnership Securities
The Fund may invest in securities issued by publicly traded partnerships or master limited partnerships or limited liability companies (together referred to as PTPs/MLPs). These entities are limited partnerships or limited liability companies that may be publicly traded on stock exchanges or markets such as the NYSE, the NYSE Alternext US LLC (formerly the American Stock Exchange) and NASDAQ. PTPs/MLPs often own businesses or properties relating to energy, natural resources or real estate, or may be involved in the film industry or research and development activities. Generally, PTPs/MLPs are operated under the supervision of one or more managing partners or members. Limited partners, unit holders, or members (such as a fund that invests in a partnership) are not involved in the day-to-day management of the company. Limited partners, unit holders, or members are allocated income and capital gains associated with the partnership project in accordance with the terms of the partnership or limited liability company agreement.
At times PTPs/MLPs may potentially offer relatively high yields compared to common stocks. Because PTPs/MLPs are generally treated as partnerships or similar limited liability “pass-through” entities for tax purposes, they do not ordinarily pay income taxes, but pass their earnings on to unit holders (except in the case of some publicly traded firms that may be taxed as corporations). For tax purposes, unit holders may initially be deemed to receive only a portion of the distributions attributed to them because certain other portions may be attributed to the repayment of initial investments and may thereby lower the cost basis of the units or shares owned by unit holders. As a result, unit holders may effectively defer taxation on the receipt of some distributions until they sell their units. These tax consequences may differ for different types of entities.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with partnership securities include: Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk, Liquidity Risk and Market Risk.
Preferred Stock
Preferred stock represents units of ownership of a corporation that frequently have dividends that are set at a specified rate. Preferred stock has preference over common stock in the payment of dividends and the liquidation of assets. Preferred stock shares some of the characteristics of both debt and equity. Preferred stock ordinarily does not carry voting rights. Most preferred stock is cumulative; if dividends are passed (i.e., not paid for any reason), they accumulate and must be paid before common stock dividends. Participating preferred stock entitles its holders to share in profits above and beyond the declared dividend, along with common shareholders, as distinguished from nonparticipating preferred stock, which is limited to the stipulated dividend. Convertible preferred stock is exchangeable for a given number of shares of common stock and thus tends to be more volatile than nonconvertible preferred stock, which generally behaves more like a fixed income bond. Preferred stock may be privately placed or publicly offered. The price of a preferred stock is generally determined by earnings, type of products or services, projected growth rates, experience of management, liquidity, and general market conditions of the markets on which the stock trades. See Types of Investments – Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities for more information.
Auction preferred stock (APS) is a type of adjustable-rate preferred stock with a dividend determined periodically in a Dutch auction process by corporate bidders. An APS is distinguished from standard preferred stock because its dividends change from time to time. Shares typically are bought and sold at face values generally ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 per share. Holders of APS may not be able to sell their shares if an auction fails, such as when there are more shares of APS for sale at an auction than there are purchase bids.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with preferred stock include: Convertible Securities Risk, Issuer Risk, Liquidity Risk and Market Risk.
Trust-Preferred Securities. Trust-preferred securities, also known as trust-issued securities, are securities that have characteristics of both debt and equity instruments and are typically treated by the Funds as debt investments.
Generally, trust-preferred securities are cumulative preferred stocks issued by a trust that is created by a financial institution, such as a bank holding company. The financial institution typically creates the trust with the objective of increasing its capital by issuing subordinated debt to the trust in return for cash proceeds that are reflected on the financial institutions balance sheet.
The primary asset owned by the trust is the subordinated debt issued to the trust by the financial institution. The financial institution makes periodic interest payments on the debt as discussed further below. The financial institution will subsequently own the trust’s common securities, which may typically represent a small percentage of the trust’s capital structure. The remainder of the trust’s capital structure typically consists of trust-preferred securities which are sold to investors. The trust uses the sales proceeds to purchase the subordinated debt issued by the financial institution. The financial institution uses the proceeds from the subordinated debt sale to increase its capital while the trust receives periodic interest payments from the financial institution for holding the subordinated debt.
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The trust uses the interest received to make dividend payments to the holders of the trust-preferred securities. The dividends are generally paid on a quarterly basis and are often higher than other dividends potentially available on the financial institution’s common stocks. The interests of the holders of the trust-preferred securities are senior to those of common stockholders in the event that the financial institution is liquidated, although their interests are typically subordinated to those of other holders of other debt issued by the institution.
The primary benefit for the financial institution in using this particular structure is that the trust-preferred securities issued by the trust are treated by the financial institution as debt securities for tax purposes (as a consequence of which the expense of paying interest on the securities is tax deductible), but are treated as more desirable equity securities for purposes of the calculation of capital requirements.
In certain instances, the structure involves more than one financial institution and thus, more than one trust. In such a pooled offering, an additional separate trust may be created. This trust will issue securities to investors and use the proceeds to purchase the trust-preferred securities issued by other trust subsidiaries of the participating financial institutions. In such a structure, the trust-preferred securities held by the investors are backed by other trust-preferred securities issued by the trust subsidiaries.
If a financial institution is financially unsound and defaults on interest payments to the trust, the trust will not be able to make dividend payments to holders of the trust-preferred securities such as the Fund, as the trust typically has no business operations other than holding the subordinated debt issued by the financial institution(s) and issuing the trust-preferred securities and common stock backed by the subordinated debt.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with trust-preferred securities include: Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Liquidity Risk and Prepayment and Extension Risk.
Private Investments in Public Equity
Private Investments in public equity (or PIPEs) are equity securities purchased in a private placement that are issued by issuers who have outstanding, publicly traded equity securities of the same class. Shares issued in PIPEs are not registered with the SEC and may not be sold unless registered with the SEC or pursuant to an exemption from registration. Generally, an issuer of shares in a PIPE may agree to register the shares after a certain period from the date of the private sale. This restricted period can last many months. Until the public registration process is completed, the resale of the PIPE shares is restricted and the Fund may sell the shares after six months, with certain restrictions, if the Fund is not an affiliate of the issuer (under relevant securities law, a holder of restricted shares may sell the shares after 6 months if the holder is not affiliated to the issuer). Generally, such restrictions cause the PIPE shares to be illiquid during this time. If the issuer does not agree to register the PIPE shares, the shares will remain restricted, not be freely tradable and may only be sold pursuant to an exemption from registration. Even if the PIPE shares are registered for resale, there is no assurance that the registration will be in effect at the time the Fund elects to sell the shares. See also Types of Investments – Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities for more information.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with PIPEs include: Private Investment in Public Equity (PIPEs) Risk, Counterparty Risk, Issuer Risk, Liquidity Risk, Market Risk, and Rule 144A and Other Exempted Securities Risk.
Private Placement and Other Restricted Securities
Private placement securities are securities that have been privately placed and are not registered under the 1933 Act. They are generally eligible for sale only to certain eligible investors. Private placements often may offer attractive opportunities for investment not otherwise available on the open market. Private placement and other “restricted” securities often cannot be sold to the public without registration under the 1933 Act or the availability of an exemption from registration (such as Rules 144 or 144A), or they are “not readily marketable” because they are subject to other legal or contractual delays in or restrictions on resale. Asset-backed securities, common stock, convertible securities, corporate debt securities, foreign securities, high-yield securities, money market instruments, mortgage-backed securities, municipal securities, participation interests, preferred stock and other types of equity and debt instruments may be privately placed or restricted securities.
Private placements typically may be sold only to qualified institutional buyers or, in the case of the initial sale of certain securities, such as those issued in collateralized debt obligations or collateralized loan obligations, to accredited investors (as defined in Rule 501(a) under the 1933 Act), or in a privately negotiated transaction or to a limited number of qualified purchasers, or in limited quantities after they have been held for a specified period of time and other conditions are met pursuant to an exemption from registration.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with private placement and other restricted securities include: Issuer Risk, Liquidity Risk, Market Risk and Confidential Information Access Risk.
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Real Estate Investment Trusts
Real estate investment trusts (REITs) are pooled investment vehicles that manage a portfolio of real estate or real estate related loans to earn profits for their shareholders. REITs are generally classified as equity REITs, mortgage REITs or a combination of equity and mortgage REITs. Equity REITs invest the majority of their assets directly in real property, such as shopping centers, nursing homes, office buildings, apartment complexes, and hotels, and derive income primarily from the collection of rents. Equity REITs can also realize capital gains by selling properties that have appreciated in value. Mortgage REITs invest the majority of their assets in real estate mortgages and derive income from the collection of interest payments. REITs can be subject to extreme volatility due to fluctuations in the demand for real estate, changes in interest rates, and adverse economic conditions.
Partnership units of real estate and other types of companies sometimes are organized as master limited partnerships in which ownership interests are publicly traded.
Similar to regulated investment companies, REITs are not taxed on income distributed to shareholders provided they comply with certain requirements under the Code. The Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any expenses paid by a REIT in which it invests. REITs often do not provide complete tax information until after the calendar year-end. Consequently, because of the delay, it may be necessary for the Fund investing in REITs to request permission to extend the deadline for issuance of Forms 1099-DIV beyond January 31. In the alternative, amended Forms 1099-DIV may be sent.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with REITs include: Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk, Market Risk and Real Estate-Related Investment Risk.
Repurchase Agreements
Repurchase agreements are agreements under which the Fund acquires a security for a relatively short period of time (usually within seven days) subject to the obligation of a seller to repurchase and the Fund to resell such security at a fixed time and price (representing the Fund’s cost plus interest). The repurchase agreement specifies the yield during the purchaser’s holding period. Repurchase agreements also may be viewed as loans made by the Fund that are collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase, which may consist of a variety of security types. The Fund typically will enter into repurchase agreements only with commercial banks, registered broker-dealers and the Fixed Income Clearing Corporation. Such transactions are monitored to ensure that the value of the underlying securities will be at least equal at all times to the total amount of the repurchase obligation, including any accrued interest.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with repurchase agreements include: Counterparty Risk, Credit Risk, Issuer Risk, Market Risk, and Repurchase Agreements Risk.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements
Reverse repurchase agreements are agreements under which the Fund temporarily transfers possession of a portfolio instrument to another party, such as a bank or broker-dealer, in return for cash. At the same time, the Fund agrees to repurchase the instrument at an agreed-upon time (normally within 7 days) and price which reflects an interest payment. The Fund generally retains the right to interest and principal payments on the security. Reverse repurchase agreements also may be viewed as borrowings made by the Fund.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with reverse repurchase agreements include: Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk, Leverage Risk, Market Risk, and Reverse Repurchase Agreements Risk.
Short Sales
The Fund may sometimes sell securities short when it owns an equal amount of the securities sold short. This is a technique known as selling short “against the box.” If the Fund makes a short sale “against the box,” it would not immediately deliver the securities sold and would not receive the proceeds from the sale. The seller is said to have a short position in the securities sold until it delivers the securities sold, at which time it receives the proceeds of the sale. To secure its obligation to deliver securities sold short, the Fund will deposit in escrow in a separate account with the custodian an equal amount of the securities sold short or securities convertible into or exchangeable for such securities. The Fund can close out its short position by purchasing and delivering an equal amount of the securities sold short, rather than by delivering securities already held by the Fund, because the Fund might want to continue to receive interest and dividend payments on securities in its portfolio that are convertible into the securities sold short.
Short sales “against the box” entail many of the same risks and considerations described below regarding short sales not “against the box.” However, when the Fund sells short “against the box” it typically limits the amount of its effective leverage. The Fund’s decision to make a short sale “against the box” may be a technique to hedge against market risks when the Fund’s portfolio manager believes that the price of a security may decline, causing a decline in the value of a security owned by the Fund or a security convertible into or exchangeable for such security. In such case, any future losses in the Fund’s long position would be
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reduced by a gain in the short position. The extent to which such gains or losses in the long position are reduced will depend upon the amount of securities sold short relative to the amount of the securities the Fund owns, either directly or indirectly, and, in the case where the Fund owns convertible securities, changes in the investment values or conversion premiums of such securities. Short sales may have adverse tax consequences to the Fund and its shareholders.
Subject to its fundamental and non-fundamental investment policies, the Fund may engage in short sales that are not “against the box,” which are sales by the Fund of securities, contracts or instruments that it does not own in hopes of purchasing the same security, contract or instrument at a later date at a lower price. The technique is also used to protect a profit in a long-term position in a security, commodity futures contract or other instrument. To make delivery to the buyer, the Fund must borrow or purchase the security. If borrowed, the Fund is then obligated to replace the security borrowed from the third party, so the Fund must purchase the security at the market price at a later time. If the price of the security has increased during this time, then the Fund will incur a loss equal to the increase in price of the security from the time of the short sale plus any premiums and interest paid to the third party. (Until the security is replaced, the Fund is required to pay to the lender amounts equal to any dividends or interest which accrue during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the Fund also may be required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the security sold. The proceeds of the short sale will be retained by the broker, to the extent necessary to meet the margin requirements, until the short position is closed out.) Short sales of forward commitments and derivatives do not involve borrowing a security. These types of short sales may include futures, options, contracts for differences, forward contracts on financial instruments and options such as contracts, credit-linked instruments, and swap contracts.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with short sales include: Leverage Risk, Market Risk, and Short Positions Risk.
Sovereign Debt
Sovereign debt obligations are issued or guaranteed by foreign governments or their agencies. It may be in the form of conventional securities or other types of debt instruments such as loans or loan participations. A sovereign debtor’s willingness or ability to repay principal and pay interest in a timely manner may be affected by a variety of factors, including its cash flow situation, the extent of its reserves, the availability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the sovereign debtor’s policy toward international lenders, and the political constraints to which a sovereign debtor may be subject. (See also Types of Investments – Foreign Securities.) In addition, there may be no legal recourse against a sovereign debtor in the event of a default.
Sovereign debt includes Brady Bonds, which are securities issued under the framework of the Brady Plan, an initiative announced by former U.S. Treasury Secretary Nicholas F. Brady in 1989 as a mechanism for debtor nations to restructure their outstanding external commercial bank indebtedness.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with sovereign debt include: Credit Risk, Emerging Markets Securities Risk, Foreign Securities Risk, Issuer Risk and Market Risk.
Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC)
A SPAC is typically a publicly traded company that raises investment capital via an IPO for the purpose of acquiring one or more existing companies (or interests therein) via merger, combination, acquisition or other similar transactions (each a SPAC Transaction). The shares of a SPAC are issued in “units” that typically include one share of common stock and one warrant (or partial warrant) conveying the right to purchase additional shares. Within 52 days after the closing of the IPO, the shares of common stock and the warrants comprising the units will begin to trade separately and become freely tradeable. After going public, and until a SPAC Transaction is completed, a SPAC generally invests the proceeds of its IPO (less a portion retained to cover expenses) in U.S. Government securities, money market securities and/or cash. If a SPAC does not complete a SPAC Transaction within a specified period of time after going public, the SPAC is typically dissolved, at which point the invested funds are returned to the SPAC’s shareholders (less certain permitted expenses) and any warrants issued by the SPAC expire worthless. In some cases, the Fund will forfeit its right to exercise its warrants to receive additional shares even if a SPAC Transaction occurs if the Fund holding the warrant elects to redeem its shares of common stock and not participate in the SPAC Transaction. See also Types of Investments – Common Stock, – Initial Public Offerings, and – Warrants and Rights for more information.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with SPACs include: IPO Risk, Issuer Risk, Liquidity Risk, Market Risk, Special Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPAC) Risk, and Warrants and Rights Risk.
Standby Commitments
See Types of Investments – Municipal Securities above.
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U.S. Government and Related Obligations
U.S. Government obligations include U.S. Treasury obligations and securities issued or guaranteed by various agencies of the U.S. Government or by various agencies or instrumentalities established or sponsored by the U.S. Government. U.S. Treasury obligations and securities issued or guaranteed by various agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. Government differ in their interest rates, maturities and time of issuance, as well as with respect to whether they are guaranteed by the U.S. Government. U.S. Government and related obligations may be structured as fixed-, variable- or floating-rate obligations. See Types of Investments – Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations for more information.
Investing in U.S. Government and related obligations is subject to certain risks. While U.S. Treasury obligations are backed by the “full faith and credit” of the U.S. Government, such securities are nonetheless subject to credit risk (i.e., the risk that the U.S. Government may be, or be perceived to be, unable or unwilling to honor its financial obligations, such as making payments). Securities issued or guaranteed by federal agencies and U.S. Government-sponsored instrumentalities may or may not be backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. These securities may be supported by the ability to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or only by the credit of the issuing agency or instrumentality and, as a result, may be subject to greater credit risk than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury. Obligations of U.S. Government agencies, authorities, instrumentalities and sponsored enterprises historically have involved limited risk of loss of principal if held to maturity. However, no assurance can be given that the U.S. Government would provide financial support to any of these entities if it is not obligated to do so by law.
Government-sponsored entities issuing securities include privately owned, publicly chartered entities created to reduce borrowing costs for certain sectors of the economy, such as farmers, homeowners, and students. They include the Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corporation, Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and SLM Corporation. Government-sponsored entities may issue discount notes (with maturities ranging from overnight to 360 days) and bonds. On September 7, 2008, the Federal Housing Finance Agency placed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac into conservatorship, a statutory process with the objective of returning the entities to normal business operations.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with U.S. Government and related obligations include: Credit Risk, Inflation Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Prepayment and Extension Risk, Reinvestment Risk, and U.S. Government Obligations Risk.
Variable- and Floating-Rate Obligations
Variable- and floating-rate obligations are debt instruments that provide for periodic adjustments in the interest rate and, under certain circumstances, varying principal amounts. Unlike a fixed interest rate, a variable, or floating, rate is one that rises and declines based on the movement of an underlying index of interest rates and may pay interest at rates that are adjusted periodically according to a specified formula. Variable- or floating-rate securities frequently include a demand feature enabling the holder to sell the securities to the issuer at par. In many cases, the demand feature can be exercised at any time. Some securities that do not have variable or floating interest rates may be accompanied by puts producing similar results and price characteristics. Variable-rate demand notes include master demand notes that are obligations that permit the investor to invest fluctuating amounts, which may change daily without penalty, pursuant to direct arrangements between the investor (as lender), and the borrower. The interest rates on these notes fluctuate. The issuer of such obligations normally has a corresponding right, after a given period, to prepay in its discretion the outstanding principal amount of the obligations plus accrued interest upon a specified number of days’ notice to the holders of such obligations. Because these obligations are direct lending arrangements between the lender and borrower, it is not contemplated that such instruments generally will be traded. There generally is not an established secondary market for these obligations. Accordingly, where these obligations are not secured by letters of credit or other credit support arrangements, the lender’s right to redeem is dependent on the ability of the borrower to pay principal and interest on demand. Such obligations frequently are not rated by credit rating agencies and may involve heightened risk of default by the issuer. Asset-backed securities, bank obligations, convertible securities, corporate debt securities, foreign securities, high-yield securities, money market instruments, mortgage-backed securities, municipal securities, participation interests, stripped securities, U.S. Government and related obligations and other types of debt instruments may be structured as variable- and floating-rate obligations.
Most floating rate loans are acquired directly from the agent bank or from another holder of the loan by assignment. Most such loans are secured, and most impose restrictive covenants on the borrower. These loans are typically made by a syndicate of banks and institutional investors, represented by an agent bank which has negotiated and structured the loan and which is responsible generally for collecting interest, principal, and other amounts from the borrower on its own behalf and on behalf of the other lending institutions in the syndicate, and for enforcing its rights and the rights of the syndicate against the borrower. Each of the lending institutions, including the agent bank, lends to the borrower a portion of the total amount of the loan, and retains the corresponding interest in the loan. Floating rate loans may include delayed draw term loans and prefunded or synthetic letters of credit.
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The Fund’s ability to receive payments of principal and interest and other amounts in connection with loans held by it will depend primarily on the financial condition of the borrower. The failure by the Fund to receive scheduled interest or principal payments on a loan would adversely affect the income of the Fund and would likely reduce the value of its assets, which would be reflected in a reduction in the Fund’s NAV. Banks and other lending institutions generally perform a credit analysis of the borrower before originating a loan or purchasing an assignment in a loan. In selecting the loans in which the Fund will invest, however, the Investment Manager will not rely on that credit analysis of the agent bank, but will perform its own investment analysis of the borrowers. The Investment Manager’s analysis may include consideration of the borrower’s financial strength and managerial experience, debt coverage, additional borrowing requirements or debt maturity schedules, changing financial conditions, and responsiveness to changes in business conditions and interest rates. Investments in loans may be of any quality, including “distressed” loans, and will be subject to the Fund’s credit quality policy.
Loans may be structured in different forms, including assignments and participations. In an assignment, the Fund purchases an assignment of a portion of a lender’s interest in a loan. In this case, the Fund may be required generally to rely upon the assigning bank to demand payment and enforce its rights against the borrower, but would otherwise be entitled to all of such bank’s rights in the loan.
The borrower of a loan may, either at its own election or pursuant to terms of the loan documentation, prepay amounts of the loan from time to time. There is no assurance that the Fund will be able to reinvest the proceeds of any loan prepayment at the same interest rate or on the same terms as those of the original loan.
Corporate loans in which the Fund may purchase a loan assignment are made generally to finance internal growth, mergers, acquisitions, recapitalizations, stock repurchases, leveraged buy-outs, dividend payments to sponsors and other corporate activities. The highly leveraged capital structure of certain borrowers may make such loans especially vulnerable to adverse changes in economic or market conditions. The Fund may hold investments in loans for a very short period of time when opportunities to resell the investments that the Fund’s portfolio manager believes are attractive arise.
Certain of the loans acquired by the Fund may involve revolving credit facilities under which a borrower may from time to time borrow and repay amounts up to the maximum amount of the facility. In such cases, the Fund would have an obligation to advance its portion of such additional borrowings upon the terms specified in the loan assignment. To the extent that the Fund is committed to make additional loans under such an assignment, it will at all times designate cash or securities in an amount sufficient to meet such commitments.
Notwithstanding its intention in certain situations to not receive material, non-public information with respect to its management of investments in floating rate loans, the Investment Manager may from time to time come into possession of material, non-public information about the issuers of loans that may be held in the Fund’s portfolio. Possession of such information may in some instances occur despite the Investment Manager’s efforts to avoid such possession, but in other instances the Investment Manager may choose to receive such information (for example, in connection with participation in a creditors’ committee with respect to a financially distressed issuer). As, and to the extent, required by applicable law, the Investment Manager’s ability to trade in these loans for the account of the Fund could potentially be limited by its possession of such information. Such limitations on the Investment Manager’s ability to trade could have an adverse effect on the Fund by, for example, preventing the Fund from selling a loan that is experiencing a material decline in value. In some instances, these trading restrictions could continue in effect for a substantial period of time.
In some instances, other accounts managed by the Investment Manager may hold other securities issued by borrowers whose floating rate loans may be held in the Fund’s portfolio. These other securities may include, for example, debt securities that are subordinate to the floating rate loans held in the Fund’s portfolio, convertible debt or common or preferred equity securities.
In certain circumstances, such as if the credit quality of the issuer deteriorates, the interests of holders of these other securities may conflict with the interests of the holders of the issuer’s floating rate loans. In such cases, the Investment Manager may owe conflicting fiduciary duties to the Fund and other client accounts. The Investment Manager will endeavor to carry out its obligations to all of its clients to the fullest extent possible, recognizing that in some cases certain clients may achieve a lower economic return, as a result of these conflicting client interests, than if the Investment Manager’s client accounts collectively held only a single category of the issuer’s securities.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with variable- or floating-rate obligations include: Counterparty Risk, Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Liquidity Risk and Prepayment and Extension Risk.
Warrants and Rights
Warrants and rights are types of securities that give a holder a right to purchase shares of common stock. Warrants usually are issued together with a bond or preferred stock and entitle a holder to purchase a specified amount of common stock at a specified price typically for a period of years. Rights usually have a specified purchase price that is lower than the current market price and entitle a holder to purchase a specified amount of common stock typically for a period of only weeks. Warrants
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may be used to enhance the marketability of a bond or preferred stock. Warrants do not carry with them the right to dividends or voting rights and they do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuer. Warrants may be considered to have more speculative characteristics than certain other types of investments. In addition, the value of a warrant does not necessarily change with the value of the underlying securities, and a warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date, if any.
The potential exercise price of warrants or rights may exceed their market price, such as when there is no movement in the market price or the market price of the common stock declines.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with warrants and rights include: Convertible Securities Risk, Counterparty Risk, Credit Risk, Issuer Risk, and Market Risk.
Information Regarding Risks
The following is a summary of risks of investing in the Funds and the risk characteristics associated with the various securities, instruments, assets and investments as well as strategies and techniques that may be available to the Funds for investment. A Fund’s risk profile is largely determined by the Fund’s portfolio holdings and principal investment strategies (see the Fund’s most recent annual and semiannual reports for portfolio holdings information and see the Fund’s current prospectus for the description of the Fund’s principal investment strategies and principal risks). The Funds are allowed to invest in other securities, instruments, assets and investments, and may engage in strategies and techniques other than those described in the Fund’s prospectus, subjecting the Fund to the risks associated with these other securities, instruments, assets, investments, strategies and techniques.
An investment in the Fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by any bank, the FDIC or any other government agency. One or more of the following risks may be associated with an investment in a Fund at any time:
Active Management Risk. The Fund is actively managed and its performance therefore will reflect, in part, the ability of the portfolio managers to make investment decisions that seek to achieve the Fund’s investment objective. Due to its active management, the Fund could underperform its benchmark index and/or other funds with similar investment objectives and/or strategies.
Activist Strategies Risk. The Fund may purchase securities of a company that is the subject of a proxy contest or which activist investors are attempting to influence, in the expectation that new management or a change in business strategies will cause the price of the company’s securities to increase. If the proxy contest, or the new management, is not successful, the market price of the company’s securities will typically fall.
In addition, where an acquisition or restructuring transaction or proxy fight is opposed by the subject company’s management, the transaction often becomes the subject of litigation. Such litigation involves substantial uncertainties and may impose substantial cost and expense on the Fund.
Allocation Risk. For any Fund that uses an asset allocation strategy in pursuit of its investment objective, there is a risk that the Fund's allocation among asset classes, investments, managers, strategies and/or investment styles will cause the Fund's shares to lose value or cause the Fund to underperform other funds with similar investment objectives and/or strategies, or that the investments themselves will not produce the returns expected.
Alternative Strategies Investment Risk. An investment in alternative investment strategies (Alternative Strategies), whether through direct investment or through one or more underlying funds that use Alternative Strategies, involves risks, which may be significant. Alternative Strategies may include strategies, instruments or other assets, such as derivatives, that seek investment returns uncorrelated with the broad equity and fixed income/debt markets, as well as those providing exposure to other markets (such as commodity markets), including but not limited to absolute (positive) return strategies. Alternative Strategies may fail to achieve their desired performance, market or other exposure, or their returns (or lack thereof) may be more correlated with the broad equity and/or fixed income/debt markets than was anticipated, and the Fund may lose money. Some Alternative Strategies may be considered speculative.
Arbitrage Strategies Risk. The Fund may purchase securities at prices only slightly below the anticipated value to be paid or exchanged for such securities in a merger, exchange offer or cash tender offer, and substantially above the prices at which such securities traded immediately prior to announcement of the transaction. If there is a perception that the proposed transaction will not be consummated or will be delayed, the market price of the security may decline sharply, which would result in a loss to the Fund. In addition, if the portfolio manager(s) determines that the offer is likely to be increased, either by the original bidder or by another party, the Fund may purchase securities above the offer price; such purchases are subject to a high degree of risk.
The consummation of mergers and tender and exchange offers can be prevented or delayed by a variety of factors, including opposition by the management or shareholders of the target company, private litigation or litigation involving regulatory agencies, and approval or non-action of regulatory agencies. The likelihood of occurrence of these and other factors, and their impact on an investment, can be very difficult to evaluate.
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Bankruptcy Process and Trade Claims Risk. The Fund may purchase bankruptcy claims. There are a number of significant risks inherent in the bankruptcy process. The effect of a bankruptcy filing on a company may adversely and permanently affect the company and cause it to be incapable of restoring itself as a viable business. Many events in a bankruptcy are the product of contested matters and adversarial proceedings. The duration of a bankruptcy proceeding is difficult to predict and a creditor’s return on investment can be adversely affected by delays while the plan of reorganization is being finalized. The administrative costs in connection with a bankruptcy proceeding are frequently high and are paid out of the debtor’s estate before any return to creditors. The Fund may also purchase trade claims against companies, including companies in bankruptcy or reorganization proceedings, which include claims of suppliers for unpaid goods delivered, claims for unpaid services rendered, claims for contract rejection damages and claims related to litigation. An investment in trade claims is very speculative, illiquid, and carries a high degree of risk. The markets in trade claims are generally not regulated by U.S. federal securities laws or the SEC.
Changing Distribution Level Risk. The Fund normally expects to receive income which may include interest, dividends and/or capital gains, depending upon its investments. The distribution amounts paid by the Fund will vary and generally depend on the amount of income the Fund earns (less expenses) on its portfolio holdings, and capital gains or losses it recognizes. A decline in the Fund’s income or net capital gains arising from its investments may reduce its distribution level.
Closed-End Investment Company Risk. Closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount to their NAV, which may affect whether the Fund will realize gain or loss upon its sale of the closed-end investment company’s shares. Closed-end investment companies may employ leverage, which also subjects the closed-end investment company to increased risks such as increased volatility.
Commodity-related Investment Risk. The value of commodities investments will generally be affected by overall market movements and factors specific to a particular industry or commodity, which may include demand for the commodity, weather, embargoes, tariffs, and economic health, political, international, regulatory and other developments. Economic and other events (whether real or perceived) can reduce the demand for commodities, which may, in turn, reduce market prices and cause the value of Fund shares to fall. The frequency and magnitude of such changes cannot be predicted. Exposure to commodities and commodities markets may subject the value of the Fund's investments (and therefore the Fund) to greater volatility than other types of investments. No, or limited, active trading market may exist for certain commodities investments, which may impair the ability to sell or to realize the full value of such investments in the event of the need to liquidate such investments. In addition, adverse market conditions may impair the liquidity of actively traded commodities investments thereby subjecting the Fund to increased liquidity risk (the risk that it may not be possible for the Fund to liquidate the instrument at an advantageous time or price). Certain types of commodities instruments are subject to the risk that the counterparty to the transaction may not perform or be unable to perform in accordance with the terms of the instrument. The Fund may make commodity-related investments through, and may invest in one or more underlying funds that make commodity-related investments through, one or more wholly-owned subsidiaries organized outside the U.S. that are generally not subject to U.S. laws (including securities laws) and their protections. However, any such subsidiary is wholly owned and controlled by the Fund and any underlying fund subsidiary is wholly-owned and controlled by the underlying fund, making it unlikely that the subsidiary will take action contrary to the interests of the Fund or the underlying fund and their shareholders. Further, any such subsidiaries will be subject to the laws of a foreign jurisdiction, and can be adversely affected by developments in that jurisdiction.
Concentration Risk. To the extent that the Fund concentrates its investment in particular issuers, countries, geographic regions, industries or sectors, the Fund may be subject to greater risks of adverse developments in such areas of focus than a fund that invests in a wider variety of issuers, countries, geographic regions, industries, sectors or investments.
Confidential Information Access Risk. In many instances, issuers of floating rate loans offer to furnish material, non-public information (Confidential Information) to prospective purchasers or holders of the issuer’s floating rate loans to help potential investors assess the value of the loan. The portfolio managers may avoid the receipt of Confidential Information about the issuers of floating rate loans being considered for acquisition by the Fund, or held in the Fund. A decision not to receive Confidential Information from these issuers may disadvantage the Fund as compared to other floating rate loan investors, and may adversely affect the price the Fund pays for the loans it purchases, or the price at which the Fund sells the loans. Further, in situations when holders of floating rate loans are asked, for example, to grant consents, waivers or amendments, the ability to assess the desirability thereof may be compromised. For these and other reasons, it is possible that the decision not to receive Confidential Information could adversely affect the Fund’s performance.
Contingent Value Rights Risk. Risks associated with an investment in CVRs are generally similar to risks associated with investing in options, such as the risk that the required trigger event does not occur prior to a CVR’s expiration, causing the CVR to expire with no value. CVRs also present liquidity risk, as they may be difficult or impossible to transfer. Further, because CVRs are valued based on the likelihood of the occurrence of a trigger event, valuation often requires subjective modeling and judgment, which increases the risk of mispricing.
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Convertible Securities Risk. Convertible securities are subject to the usual risks associated with debt instruments, such as interest rate risk (the risk of losses attributable to changes in interest rates) and credit risk (the risk that the issuer of a debt instrument will default or otherwise become unable, or be perceived to be unable or unwilling, to honor a financial obligation, such as making payments to the Fund when due). Convertible securities also react to changes in the value of the common stock into which they convert, and are thus subject to market risk (the risk that the market values of securities or other investments that the Fund holds will fall, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably, or fail to rise). Because the value of a convertible security can be influenced by both interest rates and the common stock's market movements, a convertible security generally is not as sensitive to interest rates as a similar debt instrument, and generally will not vary in value in response to other factors to the same extent as the underlying common stock. In the event of a liquidation of the issuing company, holders of convertible securities would typically be paid before the company's common stockholders but after holders of any senior debt obligations of the company. The Fund may be forced to convert a convertible security before it otherwise would choose to do so, which may decrease the Fund's return.
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Contingent Convertible Securities Risk. Contingent convertible securities, also known as contingent capital securities or “CoCos,” are hybrid securities that are typically issued by non-U.S. banks. CoCos have characteristics of both debt and equity instruments, although they are generally treated by the Funds as debt investments. If certain “trigger events” occur, CoCos either convert into equity or undergo a principal write-down or write-off. Trigger events, which are defined by the documents governing the CoCo, may include a decline in the issuer’s capital ratio below a specified trigger level, the share price of the issuer falling to a particular level for a certain period of time, other events indicating an increase in the issuer’s risk of insolvency, and/or certain regulatory events, including changes in regulatory capital requirements or regulatory actions related to the issuer’s solvency prospects.
The value of CoCos may be influenced by the creditworthiness of the issuer and/or fluctuations in such issuer’s applicable capital ratios; supply and demand for CoCos; general market conditions and available liquidity; and economic, financial or political events impacting the issuer, its particular market or the financial markets more broadly. Due to the contingent conversion or principal write-down or write-off features, CoCos may have substantially greater risk than other securities in times of financial stress. The occurrence of an automatic conversion or write-down or write-off event may be unpredictable and the potential effects of such event could cause a Fund’s shares to lose value. The coupon payments offered by CoCos are discretionary and may be cancelled or adjusted downward by the issuer or at the request of the relevant regulatory authority at any point, for any reason, and for any length of time. As a result of the uncertainty with respect to coupon payments, the value of CoCos may be volatile and their price may decline rapidly if coupon payments are suspended. CoCos are typically structurally subordinated to traditional convertible bonds in the issuer’s capital structure. There may be circumstances under which investors in CoCos may suffer a capital loss ahead of equity holders or when equity holders do not.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with CoCos include: Convertible Securities Risk, Credit Risk, Foreign Securities Risk, High-Yield Investments Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk, and Market Risk.
The value of CoCos may be influenced by the creditworthiness of the issuer and/or fluctuations in such issuer’s applicable capital ratios; supply and demand for CoCos; general market conditions and available liquidity; and economic, financial or political events impacting the issuer, its particular market or the financial markets more broadly. Due to the contingent conversion or principal write-down or write-off features, CoCos may have substantially greater risk than other securities in times of financial stress. The occurrence of an automatic conversion or write-down or write-off event may be unpredictable and the potential effects of such event could cause a Fund’s shares to lose value. The coupon payments offered by CoCos are discretionary and may be cancelled or adjusted downward by the issuer or at the request of the relevant regulatory authority at any point, for any reason, and for any length of time. As a result of the uncertainty with respect to coupon payments, the value of CoCos may be volatile and their price may decline rapidly if coupon payments are suspended. CoCos are typically structurally subordinated to traditional convertible bonds in the issuer’s capital structure. There may be circumstances under which investors in CoCos may suffer a capital loss ahead of equity holders or when equity holders do not.
Although one or more of the other risks described in this SAI may also apply, the risks typically associated with CoCos include: Convertible Securities Risk, Credit Risk, Foreign Securities Risk, High-Yield Investments Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Issuer Risk, and Market Risk.
Counterparty Risk. The risk exists that a counterparty to a transaction in a financial instrument held by the Fund or by a special purpose or structured vehicle in which the Fund invests may become insolvent or otherwise fail to perform its obligations, including making payments to the Fund, due to financial difficulties. The Fund may obtain no or limited recovery in a bankruptcy or other reorganizational proceedings, and any recovery may be significantly delayed. Transactions that the Fund enters into may involve counterparties in the financials sector and, as a result, events affecting the financials sector may cause the Fund’s NAV to fluctuate.
In the event of a counterparty’s (or its affiliate’s) insolvency, the Fund’s ability to exercise remedies, such as the termination of transactions, netting of obligations and realization on collateral, could be stayed or eliminated under new special resolution regimes adopted in the United States, the European Union and various other jurisdictions. Such regimes generally provide government authorities with broad authority to intervene when a financial institution is experiencing financial difficulty. In particular, the regulatory authorities could reduce, eliminate or convert to equity the liabilities to the Fund of a counterparty subject to such proceedings in the European Union (sometimes referred to as a “bail in”).
Credit Risk. Credit risk is the risk that the value of loans or other debt instruments may decline if the borrower or the issuer thereof defaults or otherwise becomes unable or unwilling, or is perceived to be unable or unwilling, to honor its financial obligations, such as making payments to the Fund when due. Various factors could affect the actual or perceived willingness or ability of the borrower or the issuer to make timely interest or principal payments, including changes in the financial condition of the borrower or the issuer or in general economic conditions. Debt instruments backed by an issuer's taxing authority may be subject to legal limits on the issuer's power to increase taxes or otherwise to raise revenue, or may be dependent on legislative appropriation or government aid. Certain debt instruments are backed only by revenues derived from a particular project or source, rather than by an issuer's taxing authority, and thus may have a greater risk of default. Credit rating agencies, such as S&P Global Ratings, Moody’s Ratings, Fitch, DBRS and KBRA, assign credit ratings to certain loans and debt instruments to
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indicate their credit risk. A rating downgrade by such agencies can negatively impact the value of such instruments. Lower-rated or unrated loans or instruments held by the Fund may present increased credit risk as compared to higher-rated loans or instruments. Non-investment grade loans or debt instruments may be subject to greater price fluctuations and are more likely to experience a default than investment grade loans or debt instruments and therefore may expose the Fund to increased credit risk. If the Fund purchases unrated loans or instruments, or if the ratings of loans or instruments held by the Fund are lowered after purchase, the Fund will depend on analysis of credit risk more heavily than usual. If the issuer of a loan or debt instrument declares bankruptcy or is declared bankrupt, there may be a delay before the Fund can act on the collateral (if any) securing the loan or debt instrument, which may adversely affect the Fund. Further, there is a risk that a court could take action with respect to a loan or debt instrument that is adverse to the holders of the loan or debt instrument. Such actions may include invalidating the loan or debt instrument, the lien on the collateral (if any), the priority status of the loan or debt instrument, or ordering the refund of interest previously paid by the borrower. Any such actions by a court could adversely affect the Fund’s performance. A default or expected default of a loan or debt instrument could also make it difficult for the Fund to sell the loan or debt instrument at a price approximating the value previously placed on it. In order to enforce its rights in the event of a default, bankruptcy or similar situation, the Fund may be required to retain legal or similar counsel. This may increase the Fund’s operating expenses and adversely affect its NAV. Loans or debt instruments that have a lower priority for repayment in an issuer’s capital structure typically involve a higher degree of overall risk than more senior loans or debt instruments of the same borrower.
Cybersecurity Breaches, Systems Failure and Other Business Disruptions Risk. The Fund and its service providers, including the Investment Manager and its affiliates (Ameriprise Financial, which is the Investment Manager’s parent company (together with the Investment Manager, referred to herein as we, us and our)), any investment subadvisers, the Custodian, Transfer Agent and other service providers, as well as all their underlying service providers (collectively, the Service Providers), are heavily dependent on their respective employees, agents and other personnel (Personnel) and proprietary and third-party technology and infrastructure and related business, operational and information systems, networks, computers, devices, programs, applications, data and functions (collectively, Systems) to perform necessary business activities. The Systems and Personnel that the Fund and the Service Providers rely upon may be vulnerable to significant disruptions and failures, including those relating to or arising from cybersecurity breaches (including intentional acts, e.g., cyber-attacks, hacking, phishing scams, unauthorized payment requests and other social engineering techniques aimed at Personnel or Systems, and unintentional events or activity), attempted cybersecurity breaches, Systems malfunctions, user error, conduct (or misconduct) of or arising from Personnel, and remote access to Systems (particularly important given the increased use of technologies such as the internet to conduct business). The increased use of mobile and cloud technologies and remote work heighten these and other operational risks. In addition, other events or circumstances – whether foreseeable, unforeseeable, or beyond our control, such as acts of war, other conflicts, insurrections, military actions, terrorism, riots, civil unrest including large scale protests, natural disaster, widespread disease, pandemic or other public health crises – may result in, among other things, quarantines and travel restrictions, workforce displacement and loss or reduction in Personnel and other resources. In the above circumstances, the Fund’s and the Service Providers’ operations may be significantly impacted, or even temporarily halted. The Fund’s securities market counterparties or vendors may face the same or similar systems failure, cybersecurity breaches and other business disruptions risks.
Systems and Personnel disruptions and failures, particularly cybersecurity breaches, may result in (i) proprietary or confidential information or data including personal investor information (and that of beneficial owners of investors) being lost, withheld for ransom, misused, destroyed, stolen, released, corrupted or rendered unavailable, (ii) unauthorized access to Systems and loss of operational capacity, including from, but not limited to denial-of-service attacks (i.e., efforts to make network services and other Systems unavailable to intended users), and (iii) the misappropriation of Fund or investor assets or sensitive information. Any such events could negatively impact Service Provider Personnel and Systems and may have significant adverse impacts on the Fund and its stockholders.
Systems and Personnel disruptions and failures such as cybersecurity breaches may cause delays or mistakes in materials provided to stockholders and may also interfere with, or negatively impact, the processing of Fund investor transactions, pricing of Fund investments, calculating the Fund’s NAV, and trading within the Fund’s portfolio, while causing or subjecting the Fund to potential financial losses as well as additional compliance, legal, and operational costs. The third-party trading systems relied upon by us (and generally much of the asset management and related industries) are vital to our everyday operations, and despite our and our trading system vendor’s business continuity and recovery plans, such trading systems may fail or be disrupted, which could cause significant harm to our business and Fund stockholders. Such events could negatively impact the Fund, its stockholders and the business, financial condition and performance or results of operations of the Service Providers.
The trend toward broad consumer and general public notification of Systems failures and cybersecurity breaches could exacerbate the harm to the Fund, its stockholders and Service Provider business, financial condition and performance or results of operations. Even if we and the Service Providers successfully protect our respective Systems from failures or cybersecurity breaches, we may incur significant expenses in connection with our responses to any such events or compliance with evolving
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laws, as well as the need for adoption, implementation and maintenance of appropriate security measures. We could also suffer harm to our business and reputation if attempted or actual cybersecurity breaches are publicized. We and the Service Providers cannot be certain that evolving threats from cyber-criminals and other cyber-threat actors, exploitation of new vulnerabilities in our respective Systems, data thefts, Systems break-ins or other types of inappropriate access will not compromise or breach the technology or other security measures protecting our respective Systems.
We routinely face and address evolving cybersecurity threats and have been able to detect and respond to these incidents to date without a material loss of client financial assets or information through the use of ongoing monitoring and continual improvement of our security capabilities and incident response manual. We have been threatened by phishing and spear phishing scams, social engineering attacks, account takeovers, introductions of malware, attempts at electronic break-ins, and the submission of fraudulent payment requests. Systems failures and cybersecurity breaches may be difficult to detect, may go undetected for long periods or may never be detected. The impact of such events may be compounded over time. Although we evaluate the materiality of all Systems failures and cybersecurity breaches detected, we may conclude that some such events are not material and may choose not to address them. Such conclusions may not prove to be correct.
Although we have established business continuity/disaster recovery plans (Continuity and Recovery Plans) designed to prevent or mitigate the effects of Systems and Personnel disruptions and failures and cybersecurity breaches, there are inherent limitations in Continuity and Recovery Plans. These limitations include the possibility that certain risks have not been identified, that Continuity and Recovery Plans might not – despite testing and monitoring – operate as designed, that Continuity and Recovery Plans may not be sufficient to stop or mitigate negative impacts, including financial losses, or that Continuity and Recovery Plans may otherwise be unable to achieve their objectives. The Fund and its stockholders could be negatively impacted as a result. The widespread use of work-from-home arrangements may increase these risks. The Investment Manager and its affiliates have systematically implemented strategies to address the operating environment spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Investment Manager’s operations teams seek to operate without significant disruptions in service. Its Continuity and Recovery Plans take into consideration that a pandemic could be widespread and may occur in multiple waves, affecting different communities at different times with varying levels of severity. The Fund cannot, however, predict the impact that natural or man-made disasters and conditions, including pandemics, may have on the ability of us and the Service Providers to continue ordinary business operations and technology functions over near- or longer-term periods. In addition, the Fund cannot control or dictate the Continuity and Recovery Plans of the Service Providers. As a result, there can be no assurance that the Fund will not suffer financial losses relating to Systems or Personnel disruptions or failures or cybersecurity breaches affecting them or us in the future.
Systems and Personnel disruptions and failures and cybersecurity breaches may necessitate significant investment to repair or replace impacted Systems. In addition, the Fund may incur substantial costs for risk management in connection with failures or interruptions of Systems, Personnel, Continuity and Recovery Plans and cybersecurity defense measures in order to attempt to prevent any such events or incidents in the future, which, if they should occur, may be prolonged and may negatively impact business operations.
Any insurance or other risk-shifting tools available to us in order to manage or mitigate the risks associated with Systems and Personnel disruptions and failures and cybersecurity breaches are generally subject to terms and conditions such as deductibles, coinsurance, limits and policy exclusions, as well as risk of counterparty denial of coverage, default or insolvency. While Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates maintain cyber liability insurance that provides both third-party liability and first-party liability coverages, this insurance may not be sufficient to protect us against all losses. In addition, contractual remedies may not be available with respect to Service Providers or may prove inadequate if available (e.g., because of limits on the liability of the Service Providers) to protect the Fund against all losses.
Stock and other market exchanges, financial intermediaries, issuers of, and counterparties to, Fund investments also may be adversely impacted by Systems and Personnel disruptions and failures and cybersecurity breaches, in their own businesses, subjecting them to the risks described here, as well as other additional or enhanced risks particular to their businesses, which could result in losses to the Fund and its stockholders. Issuers of securities or other instruments in which the Fund invests may also experience Systems and Personnel disruptions and failures and cybersecurity breaches, which could result in material adverse consequences for such issuers, which may cause the Fund’s investment in such issuers to lose money.
Depositary Receipts Risk. Depositary receipts are receipts issued by a bank or trust company reflecting ownership of underlying securities issued by foreign companies. Some foreign securities are traded in the form of American Depositary Receipts and/or Global Depositary Receipts. Depositary receipts involve risks similar to the risks associated with investments in foreign securities, including those associated with an issuer’s (and any of its related companies’) country of organization and places of business operations, which may be related to the particular political, regulatory, economic, social and other conditions or events (including, for example, military confrontations and actions, war, other conflicts, terrorism and disease/virus outbreaks and epidemics) occurring in the country and fluctuations in such country’s currency, as well as market risk tied to the underlying foreign company. In addition, holders of depositary receipts may have limited voting rights, may not have the same rights
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afforded to stockholders of a typical domestic company in the event of a corporate action, such as an acquisition, merger or rights offering, and may experience difficulty in receiving company stockholder communications. There is no guarantee that a financial institution will continue to sponsor a depositary receipt, or that a depositary receipt will continue to trade on an exchange, either of which could adversely affect the liquidity, availability and pricing of the depositary receipt. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates will affect the value of depositary receipts and, therefore, may affect the value of your investment in the Fund. A potential conflict of interest exists to the extent that the Fund invests in ADRs for which the Fund's custodian serves as depository bank.
Derivatives Risk. Derivatives may involve significant risks. Derivatives are financial instruments, traded on an exchange or in the over-the-counter (OTC) markets, with a value in relation to, or derived from, the value of an underlying asset(s) (such as a security, commodity or currency) or other reference, such as an index, rate or other economic indicator (each an underlying reference). Derivatives may include those that are privately placed or otherwise exempt from SEC registration, including certain Rule 144A eligible securities. Derivatives could result in Fund losses if the underlying reference does not perform as anticipated. Use of derivatives is a highly specialized activity that can involve investment techniques, risks, and tax planning different from those associated with more traditional investment instruments. The Fund’s derivatives strategy may not be successful and use of certain derivatives could result in substantial, potentially unlimited, losses to the Fund regardless of the Fund’s actual investment. A relatively small movement in the price, rate or other economic indicator associated with the underlying reference may result in substantial losses for the Fund. Derivatives may be more volatile than other types of investments. Derivatives can increase the Fund’s risk exposure to underlying references and their attendant risks, including the risk of an adverse credit event associated with the underlying reference (credit risk), the risk of an adverse movement in the value, price or rate of the underlying reference (market risk), the risk of an adverse movement in the value of underlying currencies (foreign currency risk) and the risk of an adverse movement in underlying interest rates (interest rate risk). Derivatives may expose the Fund to additional risks, including the risk of loss due to a derivative position that is imperfectly correlated with the underlying reference it is intended to hedge or replicate (correlation risk), the risk that a counterparty will fail to perform as agreed (counterparty risk), the risk that a hedging strategy may fail to mitigate losses, and may offset gains (hedging risk), the risk that the return on an investment may not keep pace with inflation (inflation risk), the risk that losses may be greater than the amount invested (leverage risk), the risk that the Fund may be unable to sell an investment at an advantageous time or price (liquidity risk), the risk that the investment may be difficult to value (pricing risk), and the risk that the price or value of the investment fluctuates significantly over short periods of time (volatility risk). The value of derivatives may be influenced by a variety of factors, including national and international political and economic developments. Potential changes to the regulation of the derivatives markets may make derivatives more costly, may limit the market for derivatives, or may otherwise adversely affect the value or performance of derivatives.
Derivatives Risk – Forward Contracts Risk. A forward contract is an over-the-counter derivative transaction between two parties to buy or sell a specified amount of an underlying reference at a specified price (or rate) on a specified date in the future. Forward contracts are negotiated on an individual basis and are not standardized or traded on exchanges. The market for forward contracts is substantially unregulated (there is no limit on daily price movements and speculative position limits are not applicable). The principals who deal in certain forward contract markets are not required to continue to make markets in the underlying references in which they trade and these markets can experience periods of illiquidity, sometimes of significant duration. There have been periods during which certain participants in forward contract markets have refused to quote prices for certain underlying references or have quoted prices with an unusually wide spread between the price at which they were prepared to buy and that at which they were prepared to sell. At or prior to maturity of a forward contract, the Fund may enter into an offsetting contract and may incur a loss to the extent there has been adverse movement in forward contract prices. The liquidity of the markets for forward contracts depends on participants entering into offsetting transactions rather than making or taking delivery. To the extent participants make or take delivery, liquidity in the market for forwards could be reduced. A relatively small price movement in a forward contract may result in substantial losses to the Fund, exceeding the amount of the margin paid. Forward contracts can increase the Fund’s risk exposure to underlying references and their attendant risks, such as credit risk, market risk, foreign currency risk and interest rate risk, while potentially exposing the Fund to correlation risk, counterparty risk, hedging risk, inflation risk, leverage risk, liquidity risk, pricing risk and volatility risk.
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A forward foreign currency contract is a derivative (forward contract) in which the underlying reference is a country's or region’s currency. The Fund may agree to buy or sell a country's or region’s currency at a specific price on a specific date in the future. These instruments may fall in value (sometimes dramatically) due to foreign market downswings or foreign currency value fluctuations, subjecting the Fund to foreign currency risk (the risk that Fund performance may be negatively impacted by foreign currency strength or weakness relative to the U.S. dollar, particularly if the Fund exposes a significant percentage of its assets to currencies other than the U.S. dollar). The effectiveness of any currency hedging strategy by a Fund may be reduced by the Fund’s inability to precisely match forward contract amounts and the value of securities involved. Forward foreign currency contracts used for hedging may also limit any potential gain that might result from an increase or decrease in the value of the currency. The Fund may use these instruments to gain leveraged exposure to currencies, which is a speculative investment practice that increases the Fund's risk exposure and the possibility of losses. Unanticipated changes
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in the currency markets could result in reduced performance for the Fund. When the Fund converts its foreign currencies into U.S. dollars, it may incur currency conversion costs due to the spread between the prices at which it may buy and sell various currencies in the market.
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A forward interest rate agreement is a derivative whereby the buyer locks in an interest rate at a future settlement date. If the interest rate on the settlement date exceeds the lock rate, the buyer pays the seller the difference between the two rates (based on the notional value of the agreement). If the lock rate exceeds the interest rate on the settlement date, the seller pays the buyer the difference between the two rates (based on the notional value of the agreement). The Fund may act as a buyer or a seller.
Derivatives Risk – Futures Contracts Risk. A futures contract is an exchange-traded derivative transaction between two parties in which a buyer (holding the “long” position) agrees to pay a fixed price (or rate) at a specified future date for delivery of an underlying reference from a seller (holding the “short” position). The seller hopes that the market price on the delivery date is less than the agreed upon price, while the buyer hopes for the contrary. Certain futures contract markets are highly volatile, and futures contracts may be illiquid. Futures exchanges may limit fluctuations in futures contract prices by imposing a maximum permissible daily price movement. The Fund may be disadvantaged if it is prohibited from executing a trade outside the daily permissible price movement. At or prior to maturity of a futures contract, the Fund may enter into an offsetting contract and may incur a loss to the extent there has been adverse movement in futures contract prices. The liquidity of the futures markets depends on participants entering into offsetting transactions rather than making or taking delivery. To the extent participants make or take delivery, liquidity in the futures market could be reduced. Positions in futures contracts may be closed out only on the exchange on which they were entered into or through a linked exchange, and no secondary market exists for such contracts. Futures positions are marked to market each day and variation margin payment must be paid to or by the Fund. Because of the low margin deposits normally required in futures trading, it is possible that the Fund may employ a high degree of leverage in the portfolio. As a result, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in substantial losses to the Fund, exceeding the amount of the margin paid. For certain types of futures contracts, losses are potentially unlimited. Futures markets are highly volatile and the use of futures may increase the volatility of the Fund’s NAV. Futures contracts executed (if any) on foreign exchanges may not provide the same protection as U.S. exchanges. Futures contracts can increase the Fund’s risk exposure to underlying references and their attendant risks, such as credit risk, market risk, foreign currency risk and interest rate risk, while potentially exposing the Fund to correlation risk, counterparty risk, hedging risk, inflation risk, leverage risk, liquidity risk, pricing risk and volatility risk.
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A bond (or debt instrument) future is a derivative that is an agreement for the contract holder to buy or sell a bond or other debt instrument, a basket of bonds or other debt instruments, or the bonds or other debt instruments in an index on a specified date at a predetermined price. The buyer (long position) of a bond future is obliged to buy the underlying reference at the agreed price on expiry of the future.
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A commodity-linked future is a derivative that is an agreement to buy or sell one or more commodities (such as crude oil, gasoline and natural gas), basket of commodities or indices of commodity futures at a specific date in the future at a specific price.
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A currency future, also an FX future or foreign exchange future, is a derivative that is an agreement to exchange one currency for another at a specified date in the future at a price (exchange rate) that is fixed on the purchase date.
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An equity future is a derivative that is an agreement for the contract holder to buy or sell a specified amount of an individual equity, a basket of equities, or the securities in an equity index on a specified date at a predetermined price.
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An interest rate future is a derivative that is an agreement whereby the buyer and seller agree to the future delivery of an interest-bearing instrument on a specific date at a pre-determined price. Examples include Treasury-bill futures, Treasury-bond futures and Eurodollar futures.
Derivatives Risk – Inverse Floaters Risk. Inverse variable or floating rate obligations, sometimes referred to as inverse floaters, are a type of over-the-counter derivative debt instrument with a variable or floating coupon rate that moves in the opposite direction of an underlying reference, typically short-term interest rates. As short-term interest rates go down, the holders of the inverse floaters receive more income and, as short-term interest rates go up, the holders of the inverse floaters receive less income. Variable rate securities provide for a specified periodic adjustment in the coupon rate, while floating rate securities have a coupon rate that changes whenever there is a change in a designated benchmark index or the issuer’s credit rating. While inverse floaters tend to provide more income than similar term and credit quality fixed-rate bonds, they also exhibit greater volatility in price movement, which could result in significant losses for the Fund. An inverse floater may have the effect of investment leverage to the extent that its coupon rate varies by a magnitude that exceeds the magnitude of the change in the index or reference rate of interest, which could result in increased losses for the Fund. There is a risk that the current interest rate on variable and floating rate instruments may not accurately reflect current market interest rates or adequately compensate the holder for the current creditworthiness of the issuer. Some inverse floaters are structured with liquidity features and may include
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market-dependent liquidity features that may expose the Fund to greater liquidity risk. Inverse floaters can increase the Fund’s risk exposure to underlying references and their attendant risks, such as credit risk, market risk, foreign currency risk and interest rate risk, while potentially exposing the Fund to correlation risk, counterparty risk, hedging risk, inflation risk, leverage risk, liquidity risk, pricing risk and volatility risk.
Derivatives Risk – Options Risk. Options are derivatives that give the purchaser the option to buy (call) or sell (put) an underlying reference from or to a counterparty at a specified price (the strike price) on or before an expiration date. The Fund may purchase or write (i.e., sell) put and call options on an underlying reference it is otherwise permitted to invest in. When writing options, the Fund is exposed to the risk that it may be required to buy or sell the underlying reference at a disadvantageous price on or before the expiration date. If the Fund sells a put option, the Fund may be required to buy the underlying reference at a strike price that is above market price, resulting in a loss. If the Fund sells a call option, the Fund may be required to sell the underlying reference at a strike price that is below market price, resulting in a loss. If the Fund sells a call option that is not covered (it does not own the underlying reference), the Fund's losses are potentially unlimited. Options may involve economic leverage, which could result in greater volatility in price movement. Options may be traded on a securities exchange or in the over-the-counter market. At or prior to maturity of an options contract, the Fund may enter into an offsetting contract and may incur a loss to the extent there has been adverse movement in options prices. Options can increase the Fund’s risk exposure to underlying references and their attendant risks, such as credit risk, market risk, foreign currency risk and interest rate risk, while potentially exposing the Fund to correlation risk, counterparty risk, hedging risk, inflation risk, leverage risk, liquidity risk, pricing risk and volatility risk.
Derivatives Risk – Structured Investments Risk. Structured investments are over-the-counter derivatives that provide principal and/or interest payments based on the value of an underlying reference(s). Structured investments typically provide interest income, thereby offering a potential yield advantage over investing directly in an underlying reference. Structured investments may lack a liquid secondary market and their prices or value can be volatile which could result in significant losses for the Fund. In some cases, depending on its terms, a structured investment may provide that principal and/or interest payments may be adjusted below zero resulting in a potential loss of principal and/or interest payments. Additionally, the particular terms of a structured investment may create economic leverage by requiring payment by the issuer of an amount that is a multiple of the price change of the underlying reference. Economic leverage will increase the volatility of structured investment prices, and could result in increased losses for the Fund. The Fund’s use of structured instruments may not work as intended. If structured investments are used to reduce the duration of the Fund’s portfolio, this may limit the Fund’s return when having a longer duration would be beneficial (for instance, when interest rates decline). Structured investments can increase the Fund’s risk exposure to underlying references and their attendant risks, such as credit risk, market risk, foreign currency risk and interest rate risk, while potentially exposing the Fund to correlation risk, counterparty risk, hedging risk, inflation risk, leverage risk, liquidity risk, pricing risk and volatility risk.
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A commodity-linked structured note is a derivative (structured investment) that has principal and/or interest payments based on the market price of one or more particular commodities (such as crude oil, gasoline and natural gas), a basket of commodities, indices of commodity futures or other economic variable. If payment of interest on a commodity-linked structured note is linked to the value of a particular commodity, basket of commodities, commodity index or other economic variable, the Fund might receive lower interest payments (or not receive any of the interest due) on its investments if there is a loss of value in the underlying reference. Further, to the extent that the amount of principal to be repaid upon maturity is linked to the value of a particular commodity, basket of commodities, commodity index or other economic variable, the Fund might not receive a portion (or any) of the principal at maturity of the investment or upon earlier exchange. At any time, the risk of loss associated with a particular structured note in the Fund’s portfolio may be significantly higher than the value of the note. A liquid secondary market may not exist for the commodity-linked structured notes held in the Fund’s portfolio, which may make it difficult for the notes to be sold at a price acceptable to the portfolio managers or for the Fund to accurately value them.
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An equity-linked note (ELN) is a derivative (structured investment) that has principal and/or interest payments based on the value of a single equity security, a basket of equity securities, or an index of equity securities, and generally has risks similar to these underlying equity securities. ELNs may be leveraged or unleveraged. An ELN typically provides interest income, thereby offering a yield advantage over investing directly in an underlying equity. The Fund may purchase ELNs that trade on a securities exchange or those that trade on the over-the-counter markets, as well as in privately negotiated transactions with the issuer of the ELN. Investments in ELNs are also subject to liquidity risk, which may make ELNs difficult to sell and value. The liquidity of unlisted ELNs is normally determined by the willingness of the issuer to make a market in the ELN. While the Fund will seek to purchase ELNs only from issuers that it believes to be willing and able to repurchase the ELN at a reasonable price, there can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to sell at such a price. Furthermore, such inability to sell may impair the Fund’s ability to enter into other transactions at a time when doing so might be advantageous. The Fund’s investments in ELNs have the potential to lead to significant losses, including the amount the Fund invested in the ELN, because ELNs are subject to the market and volatility risks associated with their underlying equity. In addition, because ELNs
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often take the form of unsecured notes of the issuer, the Fund would be subject to the risk that the issuer may default on its obligations under the ELN, thereby subjecting the Fund to the further risk of being too concentrated in the securities (including ELNs) of that issuer. However, the Fund typically considers ELNs alongside other securities of the issuer in its assessment of issuer concentration risk. In addition, ELNs may exhibit price behavior that does not correlate with the underlying securities. ELNs may also be subject to leverage risk. The Fund may or may not hold an ELN until its maturity. ELNs also include participation notes.
Derivatives Risk – Swaps Risk. In a typical swap transaction, two parties agree to exchange the return earned on a specified underlying reference for a fixed return or the return from another underlying reference during a specified period of time. Swaps may be difficult to value and may be illiquid. Swaps could result in Fund losses if the underlying asset or reference does not perform as anticipated. Swaps create significant investment leverage such that a relatively small price movement in a swap may result in immediate and substantial losses to the Fund. The Fund may only close out a swap with its particular counterparty, and may only transfer a position with the consent of that counterparty. Certain swaps, such as short swap transactions and total return swaps, have the potential for unlimited losses, regardless of the size of the initial position. Swaps can increase the Fund’s risk exposure to underlying references and their attendant risks, such as credit risk, market risk, foreign currency risk and interest rate risk, while potentially exposing the Fund to correlation risk, counterparty risk, hedging risk, inflation risk, leverage risk, liquidity risk, pricing risk and volatility risk.
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A commodity-linked swap is a derivative (swap) that is an agreement where the underlying reference is the market price of one or more particular commodities (such as crude oil, gasoline and natural gas), basket of commodities or indices of commodity futures.
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A credit default swap (including a swap on a credit default index, sometimes referred to as a credit default swap index) is a derivative and special type of swap where one party pays, in effect, an insurance premium through a stream of payments to another party in exchange for the right to receive a specified return upon the occurrence of a particular credit event by one or more third parties, such as bankruptcy, default or a similar event. A credit default swap may be embedded within a structured note or other derivative instrument. Credit default swaps enable an investor to buy or sell protection against such a credit event (such as an issuer’s bankruptcy, restructuring or failure to make timely payments of interest or principal). Credit default swap indices are indices that reflect the performance of a basket of credit default swaps and are subject to the same risks as credit default swaps. If such a default were to occur, any contractual remedies that the Fund may have may be subject to bankruptcy and insolvency laws, which could delay or limit the Fund's recovery. Thus, if the counterparty under a credit default swap defaults on its obligation to make payments thereunder, as a result of its bankruptcy or otherwise, the Fund may lose such payments altogether, or collect only a portion thereof, which collection could involve costs or delays. The Fund’s return from investment in a credit default swap index may not match the return of the referenced index. Further, investment in a credit default swap index could result in losses if the referenced index does not perform as expected. Unexpected changes in the composition of the index may also affect performance of the credit default swap index. If a referenced index has a dramatic intraday move that causes a material decline in the Fund’s net assets, the terms of the Fund’s credit default swap index may permit the counterparty to immediately close out the transaction. In that event, the Fund may be unable to enter into another credit default swap index or otherwise achieve desired exposure, even if the referenced index reverses all or a portion of its intraday move.
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An inflation rate swap is a derivative typically used to transfer inflation risk from one party to another through an exchange of cash flows. In an inflation rate swap, one party pays a fixed rate on a notional principal amount, while the other party pays a floating rate linked to an inflation index, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
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An interest rate swap is a derivative in which two parties agree to exchange interest rate cash flows, based on a specified notional amount from a fixed rate to a floating rate (or vice versa) or from one floating rate to another. Interest rate swaps can be based on various measures of interest rates, including swap rates, treasury rates, foreign interest rates and other reference rates.
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Total return swaps are derivative swap transactions in which one party agrees to pay the other party an amount equal to the total return of a defined underlying reference during a specified period of time. In return, the other party would make periodic payments based on a fixed or variable interest rate or on the total return of a different underlying reference.
Derivatives Risk – Swaptions Risk. A swaption is an options contract on a swap agreement. These transactions give the purchasing party the right (but not the obligation) to enter into new swap agreements or to shorten, extend, cancel or otherwise modify an existing swap agreement at some designated future time on specified terms, in return for payment of the purchase price (the “premium”) of the option. The Fund may write (sell) and purchase put and call swaptions to the same extent it may make use of standard options on securities or other instruments. The writer of the contract receives the premium and bears the risk of unfavorable changes in the market value on the underlying swap agreement. Swaptions can be bundled and sold as a package. These are commonly called interest rate caps, floors and collars.
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Distressed Securities Risk. The Fund may purchase distressed securities of business enterprises involved in workouts, liquidations, reorganizations, bankruptcies and similar situations. Since there is typically substantial uncertainty concerning the outcome of transactions involving business enterprises in these situations, there is a high degree of risk of loss, including loss of the entire investment.
In bankruptcy, there can be considerable delay in reaching accord on a restructuring plan acceptable to a bankrupt company’s lenders, bondholders and other creditors and then obtaining the approval of the bankruptcy court. Such delays could result in substantial losses to the investments in such company’s securities or obligations. Moreover, there is no assurance that a plan favorable to the class of securities held by the Fund will be adopted or that the subject company might not eventually be liquidated rather than reorganized.
In liquidations (both in and out of bankruptcy) and other forms of corporate reorganization, there exists the risk that the reorganization either will be unsuccessful, will be delayed or will result in a distribution of cash or a new security, the value of which will be less than the purchase price of the security in respect of which such distribution is received. It may be difficult to obtain accurate information concerning a company in financial distress, with the result that the analysis and valuation are especially difficult. The market for securities of such companies tends to be illiquid and sales may be possible only at substantial discounts.
Emerging Market Securities Risk. Securities issued by foreign governments or companies in emerging market countries, such as China, Russia and certain countries in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Latin America or Africa, are more likely to have greater exposure to the risks of investing in foreign securities that are described in Foreign Securities Risk. In addition, emerging market countries are more likely to experience instability resulting, for example, from rapid changes or developments in social, political, economic or other conditions. Their economies are usually less mature and their securities markets are typically less developed with more limited trading activity (i.e., lower trading volumes and less liquidity) than more developed countries. Emerging market securities tend to be more volatile, and may be more susceptible to market manipulation, than securities in more developed markets. Many emerging market countries are heavily dependent on international trade and have fewer trading partners, which makes them more sensitive to world commodity prices and economic downturns in other countries. Some emerging market countries have a higher risk of currency devaluations, and some of these countries may experience periods of high inflation or rapid changes in inflation rates and may have hostile relations with other countries. Due to the differences in the nature and quality of financial information of issuers of emerging market securities, including auditing and financial reporting standards, financial information and disclosures about such issuers may be unavailable or, if made available, may be considerably less reliable than publicly available information about other foreign securities. The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, which regulates auditors of U.S. public companies, is unable to inspect audit work papers in certain foreign countries. Investors in foreign countries often have limited rights and few practical remedies to pursue shareholder claims, including class actions or fraud claims, and the ability of the SEC, the U.S. Department of Justice and other authorities to bring and enforce actions against foreign issuers or foreign persons is limited.
Operational and Settlement Risks of Securities in Emerging Markets. In addition to having less developed securities markets, banks in emerging markets that are eligible foreign sub-custodians may be recently organized, lack extensive operating experience or lack effective government oversight or regulation. In addition, there may be legal restrictions or limitations on the ability of the Fund to recover assets held in custody by a foreign sub-custodian in the event of the bankruptcy of the sub-custodian. Because settlement systems may be less organized than in developed markets and because delivery versus payment settlement may not be possible or reliable, there may be a greater risk that settlement may be delayed and that cash or securities of the Fund may be lost because of failures of or defects in the system, including fraud or corruption. Settlement systems in emerging markets also have a higher risk of failed trades.
Risks Related to Currencies and Corporate Actions in Emerging Markets. Risks related to currencies and corporate actions are also greater in emerging market countries than in developed countries. For example, some emerging market countries may have fixed or managed currencies that are not free-floating against the U.S. dollar. Further, certain currencies may not have an active trading market internationally, or countries may have varying exchange rates. Some emerging market countries have a higher risk of currency devaluations, and some of these countries may experience sustained periods of high inflation or rapid changes in inflation rates which can have negative effects on a country’s economy and securities markets. Corporate action procedures in emerging market countries may be less reliable and have limited or no involvement by the depositories and central banks. Lack of standard practices and payment systems can lead to significant delays in payment.
Risks Related to Corporate and Securities Laws in Emerging Markets. Securities laws in emerging markets may be relatively new and unsettled and, consequently, there is a risk of rapid and unpredictable change in laws regarding foreign investment, securities regulation, title to securities and shareholder rights. Accordingly, foreign investors may be adversely affected by new or amended laws and regulations. In addition, the systems of corporate governance to which issuers in certain emerging markets
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are subject may be less advanced than the systems to which issuers located in more developed countries are subject, and therefore, shareholders of such issuers may not receive many of the protections available to shareholders of issuers located in more developed countries. These risks may be heightened in China and Russia.
Risks of Investments in Russia. A Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities issued by companies located in Russia. The Russian securities market is exposed to a variety of risks described above in “Emerging Market Securities Risk” not encountered in more developed markets. The Russian securities market is relatively new, and a substantial portion of securities transactions are privately negotiated outside of stock exchanges. The inexperience of the Russian securities market and the limited volume of trading in securities in the market may make obtaining accurate prices on portfolio securities from independent sources more difficult than in more developed markets.
Because of the recent formation of the Russian securities markets, the relatively underdeveloped state of Russia’s banking and telecommunication systems and the legal and regulatory framework in Russia, settlement, clearing and registration of securities transactions are subject to additional risks. Prior to 2013, there was no central registration system for equity share registration in Russia and registration was carried out either by the issuers themselves or by registrars located throughout Russia. These registrars may not have been subject to effective state supervision or licensed with any governmental entity. In 2013, Russia established the National Settlement Depository (NSD) as a recognized central securities depository, and title to Russian equities is now based on the records of the NSD and not on the records of the local registrars. The implementation of the NSD is generally expected to decrease the risk of loss in connection with recording and transferring title to securities; however, loss may still occur. Additionally, issuers and registrars remain prominent in the validation and approval of documentation requirements for corporate action processing in Russia, and there remain inconsistent market standards in the Russian market with respect to the completion and submission of corporate action elections. To the extent that the Fund suffers a loss relating to title or corporate actions relating to its portfolio securities, it may be difficult for the Fund to enforce its rights or otherwise remedy the loss.
In addition, Russia also may attempt to assert its influence in the region through economic or military measures, as it did with Georgia in the summer of 2008 and Ukraine in 2014 and 2022. Russia launched a large-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, significantly amplifying already existing geopolitical tensions. The extent and duration of the military action, the resulting sanctions or other punitive actions and the resulting future market disruptions, including declines in its stock markets, the value of Russian sovereign debt and the value of the ruble against the U.S. dollar, are impossible to predict, but have been and could continue to be significant. Any such disruptions caused by Russian military action or other hostile actions (including cyberattacks and espionage) or resulting actual and threatened responses to such activity, including potential widening of the scope of the conflict, purchasing and financing restrictions, potential suspension of trading Russian securities on stock exchanges, boycotts or changes in consumer or purchaser preferences, sanctions, tariffs or cyberattacks on the Russian government, Russian companies or Russian individuals, including politicians, have impacted and may continue to impact Russia’s economy and Russian issuers of securities in which the Fund invests. Actual and threatened responses to such military action have impacted, and may continue to impact the markets for certain Russian commodities, such as oil and natural gas, as well as other sectors of the Russian economy, and may likely have collateral impacts on such sectors globally. Further, several large corporations and U.S. states have announced plans to divest interests or otherwise curtail business dealings with certain Russian businesses.
Governments in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, the European Union and many other countries (collectively, the Sanctioning Bodies) have imposed broad-ranging economic sanctions, including banning Russia from global payments systems that facilitate cross-border payments, prohibiting certain securities trades and certain private transactions in the energy sector, asset freezes and prohibition of all business, against certain Russian individuals (including politicians) both inside Russia and globally, as well as Russian corporate and banking entities. The Sanctioning Bodies, and/or others, could also institute or threaten further sanctions, which may result in the decline of the value and liquidity of Russian securities, further downgrades in the credit ratings of Russia or Russian issuers, a further weakening of the ruble or other adverse consequences for the Russian economy. These sanctions may include the immediate freeze of Russian securities and/or funds invested in prohibited assets, impairing the ability of a Fund to buy, sell, receive or deliver those securities and/or assets. Sanctions may also result in Russia taking countermeasures or retaliatory actions which may further impair the value and liquidity of Russian securities. For instance, in response to sanctions, the government of Russia imposed capital controls to restrict movements of capital entering and exiting the country and the Russian Central Bank suspended the sales of Russian securities by non-residents of Russia on its local stock exchange. Any market disruptions caused by Russian military action, resulting sanctions and/or countermeasures or actions thereto may magnify the impact of other risks to the Fund. Market events are rapidly evolving and present uncertainty and risk with respect to markets globally and the performance of the Fund and its investments could be negatively impacted.
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Environmental, Social and Governance Investing Risk. The Fund’s consideration of issuer environmental, social and corporate governance data may cause the Fund to invest in, forego investing in, or sell securities of issuers, including issuers within certain sectors, regions and countries that could negatively impact Fund performance, including relative to a benchmark or other funds that do not consider environmental, social and corporate governance data, or funds that do but make different investment decisions based thereon.
Event-Driven Trading Risk. The Fund may seek to profit from the occurrence of specific corporate or other events. A delay in the timing of these events, or the failure of these events to occur at all, may have a significant negative effect on the Fund’s performance.
Event-driven investing requires the portfolio managers to make predictions about (i) the likelihood that an event will occur and (ii) the impact such event will have on the value of a company’s securities. If the event fails to occur or it does not have the effect foreseen, losses can result. For example, the adoption of new business strategies, a meaningful change in management or the sale of a division or other significant assets by a company may not be valued as highly by the market as the portfolio managers had anticipated, resulting in losses. In addition, a company may announce a plan of restructuring which promises to enhance value and fail to implement it, resulting in losses to investors.
Event-Linked Instruments Risk. The Fund may seek to profit from investment in debt securities whose performance is linked to the occurrence of specific “trigger” events, such as a hurricane, earthquake, or other physical or weather-related phenomena. If a trigger event causes losses exceeding a specific amount in the geographic region and time period specified in a bond, the Fund may lose a portion or all of its principal invested in the bond or suffer a reduction in credited interest. Some event-linked bonds have features that delay the return of capital upon the occurrence of a specified event; in these cases, whether or not there is loss of capital or interest, the return on the investment may be significantly lower during the extension period. Bonds commonly referred to as “catastrophe bonds” are a type of event-linked instrument in which the Fund may invest. Catastrophe bonds may be issued by government agencies, insurance companies, reinsurers, special purpose corporations or other on-shore or off-shore entities (such special purpose entities are created to accomplish a narrow and well-defined objective, such as the issuance of a note in connection with a reinsurance transaction). The return on these securities is tied primarily to property insurance risk and is analogous to underwriting insurance in certain circumstances. By isolating insurance risk, these securities are largely uncorrelated to other more traditional investments. Risks associated with investment in catastrophe bonds would include, for example, a major hurricane or similar catastrophe striking a heavily populated area of the East Coast of the United States or a major earthquake with an epicenter in an urban area on the West Coast of the United States. In addition to specified trigger events, catastrophe bonds may expose the Fund to other risks, such as credit risk (the risk that the issuer of a debt instrument will default or otherwise become unable, or be perceived to be unable or unwilling, to honor a financial obligation, such as making payments to the Fund when due), counterparty risk (the risk that a counterparty to a transaction in a financial instrument held by the Fund may become insolvent or otherwise fail to perform its obligations, including making payments to the Fund), adverse regulatory or jurisdictional interpretations, adverse tax consequences, liquidity risk (the risk that it may not be possible for the Fund to liquidate the instrument at an advantageous time or price), and foreign currency risk (the risk that Fund performance may be negatively impacted by foreign currency strength or weakness relative to the U.S. dollar, particularly if the Fund exposes a significant percentage of its assets to currencies other than the U.S. dollar). Event-linked exposure often provides for an extension of maturity to process and audit loss claims where a trigger event has, or possibly has, occurred. An extension of maturity may increase volatility. From time to time, the volume of catastrophe bonds available in the market may be insufficient to enable the Fund to invest as great a percentage of its assets in catastrophe bonds as it would like.
Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) Risk. Investments in ETFs have unique characteristics, including, but not limited to, the expense structure and additional expenses associated with investing in ETFs. An ETF’s share price may not track its specified market index (if any) and may trade below its NAV. Certain ETFs use a “passive” investment strategy and do not take defensive positions in volatile or declining markets. Other ETFs in which the Fund may invest are actively managed ETFs (i.e., they do not track a particular benchmark), which indirectly subjects the Fund to active management risk. An active secondary market in an ETF’s shares may not develop or be maintained and may be halted or interrupted due to actions by its listing exchange, unusual market conditions or other reasons. There can be no assurance an ETF’s shares will continue to be listed on an active exchange. In addition, the Fund’s shareholders bear both their proportionate share of the Fund’s expenses and, indirectly, the ETF’s expenses, incurred through the Fund’s ownership of the ETF. Because the expenses and costs of an underlying ETF are shared by its investors, redemptions by other investors in the ETF could result in decreased economies of scale and increased operating expenses for such ETF. These transactions might also result in higher brokerage, tax or other costs for the ETF. This risk may be particularly important when one investor owns a substantial portion of the ETF.
The Funds generally expect to purchase shares of ETFs through broker-dealers in transactions on a securities exchange, and in such cases the Funds will pay customary brokerage commissions for each purchase and sale. Shares of an ETF may also be acquired by depositing a specified portfolio of the ETF’s underlying securities, as well as a cash payment generally equal to accumulated dividends of the securities (net of expenses) up to the time of deposit, with the ETF’s custodian, in exchange for
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which the ETF will issue a quantity of new shares sometimes referred to as a “creation unit.” Similarly, shares of an ETF purchased on an exchange may be accumulated until they represent a creation unit, and the creation unit may be redeemed in kind for a portfolio of the underlying securities (based on the ETF’s NAV) together with a cash payment generally equal to accumulated dividends as of the date of redemption. The Funds may redeem creation units for the underlying securities (and any applicable cash), and may assemble a portfolio of the underlying securities (and any required cash) to purchase creation units. The Funds’ ability to redeem creation units may be limited by the 1940 Act, which provides that ETFs, the shares of which are purchased in reliance on Section 12(d)(1)(F) of the 1940 Act, will not be obligated to redeem such shares in an amount exceeding one percent of their total outstanding securities during any period of less than 30 days.
Exchange-Traded Notes Risk. Exchange-traded notes (ETNs) are unsecured, unsubordinated debt securities that expose the Fund to the risk that an ETN’s issuer may be unable to pay, which means that the Fund is subject to issuer credit risk, including that the value of the ETN may drop due to a downgrade in the issuer’s credit rating, despite the underlying benchmark or strategy remaining unchanged. ETNs do not typically offer principal protection, so the Fund may lose some or all of its investment. The returns of ETNs are usually linked to the performance of a market benchmark or strategy, less investor fees and expenses. The Fund will bear its proportionate share of the fees and expenses of the ETN, which may cause the Fund’s returns to be lower. The return on ETNs will typically be lower than the total return on a direct investment in the components of the underlying index or strategy because of the ETN’s investor fees and expenses. The value of an ETN may also be influenced by time to maturity, level of supply and demand for the ETN, volatility and lack of liquidity in the underlying market, changes in the applicable interest rates, and economic, legal, political, or geographic events that affect the referenced underlying benchmark or strategy.
Foreign Currency Risk. The performance of the Fund may be materially affected positively or negatively by foreign currency strength or weakness relative to the U.S. dollar, particularly if the Fund invests a significant percentage of its assets in foreign securities or other assets denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short or long periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates, imposition of currency controls and economic or political developments in the U.S. or abroad. The Fund may also incur currency conversion costs when converting foreign currencies into U.S. dollars and vice versa. Restrictions on currency trading may be imposed by foreign countries, which may adversely affect the value of your investment in the Fund. Even though the currencies of some countries may be pegged to the U.S. dollar, the conversion rate may be controlled by government regulation or intervention at levels significantly different than what would normally prevail in a free market. Significant revaluations of the U.S. dollar exchange rate of these currencies could cause substantial reductions in the Fund’s NAV.
Foreign Currency-Related Tax Risk. As a regulated investment company (RIC), the Fund must derive at least 90% of its gross income for each taxable year from sources treated as “qualifying income” under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The Fund may gain exposure to local currency markets through forward currency contracts. Although foreign currency gains currently constitute “qualifying income,” the Internal Revenue Service has the authority to issue regulations excluding from the definition of “qualifying income” a RIC’s foreign currency gains not “directly related” to its “principal business” of investing in stock or securities (or options and futures with respect thereto). Such regulations might treat gains from some of the Fund’s foreign currency-denominated positions as not qualifying income and there is a possibility that such regulations might be applied retroactively, in which case, the Fund might not qualify as a RIC for one or more years. In the event the Internal Revenue Service issues such regulations, the Fund’s Board may authorize a significant change in investment strategy or the Fund’s liquidation.
Foreign Securities Risk. Investments in or exposure to securities of foreign companies may involve heightened risks relative to investments in or exposure to securities of U.S. companies. For example, foreign markets can be extremely volatile. Foreign securities may also be less liquid, making them more difficult to trade, than securities of U.S. companies so that the Fund may, at times, be unable to sell foreign securities at desirable times or prices. Brokerage commissions, custodial costs and other fees are also generally higher for foreign securities. The Fund may have limited or no legal recourse in the event of default with respect to certain foreign securities, including those issued by foreign governments. In addition, foreign governments may impose withholding or other taxes on the Fund’s income, capital gains or proceeds from the disposition of foreign securities, which could reduce the Fund’s return on such securities. In some cases, such withholding or other taxes could potentially be confiscatory. Other risks include: possible delays in the settlement of transactions or in the payment of income; generally less publicly available information about foreign companies; the impact of economic, political, social, diplomatic or other conditions or events (including, for example, military confrontations and actions, war, other conflicts, terrorism and disease/virus outbreaks and epidemics), possible seizure, expropriation or nationalization of a company or its assets or the assets of a particular investor or category of investors; accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards that may be less comprehensive and stringent than those applicable to domestic companies; the imposition of economic and other sanctions against a particular foreign country, its nationals or industries or businesses within the country; and the generally less stringent standard of care to which local agents may be held in the local markets. In addition, it may be difficult to obtain reliable information about the securities and business operations of certain foreign issuers. Governments or trade groups may compel local agents to hold securities in designated depositories that are not subject to independent evaluation. The less developed a country’s securities market is, the
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greater the level of risks. Economic sanctions may be, and have been, imposed against certain countries, organizations, companies, entities and/or individuals. Economic sanctions and other similar governmental actions could, among other things, effectively restrict or eliminate the Fund’s ability to purchase or sell securities, and thus may make the Fund’s investments in such securities less liquid or more difficult to value. In addition, as a result of economic sanctions, the Fund may be forced to sell or otherwise dispose of investments at inopportune times or prices, which could result in losses to the Fund and increased transaction costs. These conditions may be in place for a substantial period of time and enacted with limited advance notice to the Fund. The risks posed by sanctions against a particular foreign country, its nationals or industries or businesses within the country may be heightened to the extent the Fund invests significantly in the affected country or region or in issuers from the affected country that depend on global markets. Additionally, investments in certain countries may subject the Fund to a number of tax rules, the application of which may be uncertain. Countries may amend or revise their existing tax laws, regulations and/or procedures in the future, possibly with retroactive effect. Changes in or uncertainties regarding the laws, regulations or procedures of a country could reduce the after-tax profits of the Fund, directly or indirectly, including by reducing the after-tax profits of companies located in such countries in which the Fund invests, or result in unexpected tax liabilities for the Fund. The performance of the Fund may also be negatively affected by fluctuations in a foreign currency's strength or weakness relative to the U.S. dollar, particularly to the extent the Fund invests a significant percentage of its assets in foreign securities or other assets denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short or long periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates, imposition of currency exchange controls and economic or political developments in the U.S. or abroad. The Fund may also incur currency conversion costs when converting foreign currencies into U.S. dollars and vice versa.
Operational and Settlement Risks of Foreign Securities. The Fund’s foreign securities are generally held outside the United States in the primary market for the securities in the custody of certain eligible foreign banks and trust companies (foreign sub-custodians), as permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the 1940 Act). Settlement practices for foreign securities may differ from those in the United States. Some countries have limited governmental oversight and regulation of industry practices, stock exchanges, depositories, registrars, brokers and listed companies, which increases the risk of corruption and fraud and the possibility of losses to the Fund. In particular, under certain circumstances, foreign securities may settle on a delayed delivery basis, meaning that the Fund may be required to make payment for securities before the Fund has actually received delivery of the securities or deliver securities prior to the receipt of payment. Typically, in these cases, the Fund will receive evidence of ownership in accordance with the generally accepted settlement practices in the local market entitling the Fund to delivery or payment at a future date, but there is a risk that the security will not be delivered to the Fund or that payment will not be received, although the Fund and its foreign sub-custodians take reasonable precautions to mitigate this risk. Losses can also result from lost, stolen or counterfeit securities; defaults by brokers and banks; failures or defects of the settlement system; or poor and improper record keeping by registrars and issuers.
Share Blocking. Share blocking refers to a practice in certain foreign markets under which an issuer’s securities are blocked from trading at the custodian or sub-custodian level for a specified number of days before and, in certain instances, after a shareholder meeting where a vote of shareholders takes place. The blocking period can last up to several weeks. Share blocking may prevent the Fund from buying or selling securities during this period, because during the time shares are blocked, trades in such securities will not settle. It may be difficult or impossible to lift blocking restrictions, with the particular requirements varying widely by country. As a consequence of these restrictions, the Investment Manager, on behalf of the Fund, may abstain from voting proxies in markets that require share blocking.
Forward Commitments on Mortgage-Backed Securities (including Dollar Rolls) Risk. When purchasing mortgage-backed securities in the “to be announced” (TBA) market (MBS TBAs), the seller agrees to deliver mortgage-backed securities for an agreed upon price on an agreed upon date, but may make no guarantee as to the specific securities to be delivered. In lieu of taking delivery of mortgage-backed securities, the Fund could enter into dollar rolls, which are transactions in which the Fund sells securities to a counterparty and simultaneously agrees to purchase those or similar securities in the future at a predetermined price. Dollar rolls involve the risk that the market value of the securities the Fund is obligated to repurchase may decline below the repurchase price, or that the counterparty may default on its obligations. These transactions may also increase the Fund’s portfolio turnover rate. If the Fund reinvests the proceeds of the security sold, the Fund will also be subject to the risk that the investments purchased with such proceeds will decline in value (a form of leverage risk). MBS TBAs and dollar rolls are subject to the risk that the counterparty to the transaction may not perform or be unable to perform in accordance with the terms of the instrument.
Frontier Market Risk. Frontier market countries generally have smaller economies and even less developed capital markets than typical emerging market countries (which themselves have increased investment risk relative to more developed market countries) and, as a result, the Fund’s exposure to risks associated with investing in emerging market countries are magnified when the Fund invests in frontier market countries. The increased risks include: the potential for extreme price volatility and illiquidity in frontier market countries; government ownership or control of parts of the private sector and of certain companies; trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or
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negotiated by the countries with which frontier market countries trade; and the relatively new and unsettled securities laws in many frontier market countries. In addition, frontier market countries are more likely to experience instability resulting, for example, from rapid changes or developments in social, political and economic conditions. Many frontier market countries are heavily dependent on international trade, which makes them more sensitive to world commodity prices and economic downturns and other conditions in other countries. Some frontier market countries have a higher risk of currency devaluations, and some of these countries may experience periods of high inflation or rapid changes in inflation rates and may have hostile relations with other countries. Securities issued by foreign governments or companies in frontier market countries are even more likely than emerging markets securities to have greater exposure to the risks of investing in foreign securities that are described in Foreign Securities Risk.
Geographic Focus Risk. The Fund may be particularly susceptible to risks related to economic, political, regulatory or other events or conditions affecting issuers and countries within the specific geographic regions in which the Fund invests. Currency devaluations could occur in countries that have not yet experienced currency devaluation to date, or could continue to occur in countries that have already experienced such devaluations. As a result, the Fund’s NAV may be more volatile than the NAV of a more geographically diversified fund.
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Asia Pacific Region. A number of countries in the Asia Pacific region are considered underdeveloped or developing, including from a political, economic and/or social perspective, and may have relatively unstable governments and economies based on limited business, industries and/or natural resources or commodities. Events in any one country within the region may impact that country, other countries in the region or the region as a whole. As a result, events in the region will generally have a greater effect on the Fund than if the Fund were more geographically diversified in a region with more developed countries and economies. This could result in increased volatility in the value of the Fund’s investments and losses for the Fund. Continued growth of economies and securities markets in the region will require sustained economic and fiscal discipline, as well as continued commitment to governmental and regulatory reforms. Development also may be influenced by international economic conditions, including those in the United States and Japan, and by world demand for goods or natural resources produced in countries in the Asia Pacific region. Securities markets in the region are generally smaller and have a lower trading volume than those in the United States, which may result in the securities of some companies in the region being less liquid than U.S. or other foreign securities. Some currencies, inflation rates or interest rates in the Asia Pacific region are or can be volatile, and some countries in the region may restrict the flow of money in and out of the country. The risks described under “Emerging Market Securities Risk,” “Frontier Market Risk,” and “Foreign Securities Risk” may be more pronounced due to the Fund’s focus on investments in the region.
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Europe. The Fund is particularly susceptible to risks related to economic, political, regulatory or other events or conditions, including acts of war or other conflicts in the region, affecting issuers and countries in Europe. Countries in Europe are often closely connected and interdependent, and events in one European country can have an adverse impact on, and potentially spread to, other European countries. Most developed countries in Western Europe are members of the European Union (EU), and many are also members of the European Economic and Monetary Union (EMU). European countries can be significantly affected by the tight fiscal and monetary controls that the EMU imposes on its members and with which candidates for EMU membership are required to comply. In addition, significant private or public debt problems in a single EU country can pose economic risks to the EU as a whole. Unemployment in Europe has historically been higher than in the United States and public deficits are an ongoing concern in many European countries. As a result, the Fund’s NAV may be more volatile than the NAV of a more geographically diversified fund. If securities of issuers in Europe fall out of favor, it may cause the Fund to underperform other funds that do not focus their investments in this region of the world. Any uncertainty caused by the departure of the United Kingdom (UK) from the EU, which occurred in January 2020, could have negative impacts on the UK and EU, as well as other European economies and the broader global economy. These could include negative impacts on currencies and financial markets as well as increased volatility and illiquidity, and potentially lower economic growth in markets in the UK, Europe and globally, which could adversely affect the value of your investment in the Fund. Any attempt by the Fund to hedge against or otherwise protect its portfolio or to profit from such circumstances may fail and, accordingly, an investment in the Fund could lose money over short or long periods.
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Greater China. The Greater China region consists of Hong Kong, The People's Republic of China and Taiwan, among other countries, and the Fund's investments in the region are particularly susceptible to risks in that region. The Hong Kong, Taiwanese, and Chinese economies are dependent on the economies of other countries and can be significantly affected by currency fluctuations and increasing competition from other emerging economies in Asia with lower costs. Adverse events in any one country within the region may impact the other countries in the region or Asia as a whole. As a result, adverse events in the region will generally have a greater effect on the Fund than if the Fund were more geographically diversified, which could result in greater volatility in the Fund’s NAV and losses. Markets in the Greater China region can experience significant volatility due to social, economic, regulatory and political uncertainties. Changes in Chinese government policy and economic growth rates could significantly affect local markets and the entire Greater China region. China has yet to develop comprehensive securities, corporate, or commercial laws, its market is relatively new and less developed, and its economy is
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experiencing a relative slowdown. Export growth continues to be a major driver of China’s economic growth. As a result, a reduction in spending on Chinese products and services, the institution of additional tariffs or other trade barriers, including as a result of heightened trade tensions between China and the United States, or a downturn in any of the economies of China’s key trading partners may have an adverse impact on the Chinese economy. The risks described under “Emerging Market Securities Risk,” “Frontier Market Risk,” and “Foreign Securities Risk” may be more pronounced due to the Fund’s focus on investments in the region. Many Chinese companies to which the Fund seeks investment exposure use a structure known as a variable interest entity (a VIE) to address Chinese restrictions on direct foreign investment in Chinese companies operating in certain sectors. The Fund’s investment exposure to VIEs may pose additional risks because the Fund’s investment is not made directly in the VIE (the actual Chinese operating company), but rather in a holding company domiciled outside of China (a Holding Company) whose interests in the business of the underlying Chinese operating company (the VIE) are established through contracts rather than through equity ownership. The VIE (which the Fund is restricted from owning under Chinese law) is generally owned by Chinese nationals, and the Holding Company (in which the Fund invests) holds only contractual rights (rather than equity ownership) relating to the VIE, typically including a contractual claim on the VIE's profits. Shares of the Holding Company, in turn, are traded on exchanges outside of China and are available to non-Chinese investors such as the Fund. The VIE structure is a longstanding practice in China that, until recently, was not acknowledged by the Chinese government, creating uncertainty over the possibility that the Chinese government might cease to tolerate VIE structures at any time or impose new restrictions on the structure. In such a scenario, the Chinese operating company could be subject to penalties, including revocation of its business and operating license, or the Holding Company could forfeit its interest in the business of the Chinese operating company. Further, in case of a dispute, the remedies and rights of the Fund may be limited, and such legal uncertainty may be exploited against the interests of the Fund. Control over a VIE may also be jeopardized if a natural person who holds the equity interest in the VIE breaches the terms of the contractual arrangements, is subject to legal proceedings, or if any physical instruments or property of the VIE, such as seals, business registration certificates, financial data and licensing arrangements (sometimes referred to as “chops”), are used without authorization. In the event of such an occurrence, the Fund, as a foreign investor, may have little or no legal recourse. In addition to the risk of government intervention, investments through a VIE structure are subject to the risk that the China-based company (or its officers, directors, or Chinese equity owners) may breach the contractual arrangements, that Chinese law changes in a way that adversely affects the enforceability of the arrangements, or that the contracts are otherwise not enforceable under Chinese law. In any of these cases, a Fund may suffer significant losses on its investments through a VIE structure with little or no recourse available. The Fund will typically have little or no ability to influence the VIE through proxy voting or other means because it is not a VIE owner/shareholder. Foreign companies listed on stock exchanges in the United States, including companies using the VIE structure, could also face delisting or other ramifications for failure to meet the expectations and/or requirements of the SEC, the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, or other U.S. regulators. Recently, China has proposed the adoption of rules which would affirm that VIEs are legally permissible, though there remains significant uncertainty over how these rules will operate. Any of these risks could reduce the liquidity and value of the Fund’s investments in Holding Companies or render them valueless.
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Japan. The Fund is particularly susceptible to the social, political, economic, regulatory and other conditions or events that may affect Japan’s economy. The Japanese economy is heavily dependent upon international trade, including, among other things, the export of finished goods and the import of oil and other commodities and raw materials. Because of its trade dependence, the Japanese economy is particularly exposed to the risks of currency fluctuation, foreign trade policy and regional and global economic disruption, including the risk of increased tariffs, embargoes, and other trade limitations or factors. Strained relationships between Japan and its neighboring countries, including China, South Korea and North Korea, based on historical grievances, territorial disputes, and defense concerns, may also cause uncertainty in Japanese markets. As a result, additional tariffs, other trade barriers, or boycotts may have an adverse impact on the Japanese economy. Japanese government policy has been characterized by economic regulation, intervention, protectionism and large government deficits. The Japanese economy is also challenged by an unstable financials sector, highly leveraged corporate balance sheets and extensive cross-ownership among major corporations. Structural social and labor market changes, including an aging workforce, population decline and traditional aversion to labor mobility may adversely affect Japan’s economic competitiveness and growth potential. The potential for natural disasters, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, typhoons and tsunamis, could also have significant negative effects on Japan’s economy. A significant portion of Japan's trade is conducted with developing nations in East and Southeast Asia and its economy can be affected by conditions and currency fluctuations in these and other countries. For a number of years, Japan’s economic growth rate has remained relatively low, and it may remain low in the future. Securities in Japan are denominated and quoted in yen. As a result, the value of the Fund's Japanese securities as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected by fluctuations in the value of the Japanese yen relative to the U.S. dollar. Securities traded on Japanese stock exchanges have exhibited significant volatility in recent years. As a result of the Fund’s investment in Japanese securities, the Fund’s NAV may be more volatile than the NAV of a more geographically diversified fund. If securities of issuers in Japan fall out of favor, it may cause the Fund to underperform other funds that do not focus their investments in Japan.
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Latin America Region. The Fund is particularly susceptible to risks related to economic, political, regulatory, legal, social or other events or conditions affecting issuers in, or those that have investment exposure to, the Latin America region. The economies of many Latin American countries have experienced elevated and volatile interest rates, inflation rates and unemployment rates. Currency devaluations and exchange rate volatility have also been common among Latin American economies. Relatively high dependence upon commodities, such as petroleum, minerals, metals and agricultural products, amongst others, may cause certain Latin American economies to be particularly sensitive to fluctuations in commodity prices. International economic conditions, trade arrangements and flow of international capital may have significant impact on Latin American economies due to their relatively heavy reliance upon international trade. Latin American economies may also be susceptible to adverse government regulatory and economic intervention and controls which may negatively impact economic growth. Limitations in the ability to repatriate investment income, capital or the proceeds of the sale of securities from Latin American countries could adversely affect the Fund. Other risks associated with investments in Latin American economies may include inadequate investor protections, less developed custody, settlement, regulatory, accounting, auditing and financial standards, unfavorable changes in laws or regulations, natural disasters, corruption and military activity. The risks described under “Emerging Market Securities Risk,” “Frontier Market Risk,” and “Foreign Securities Risk” may be more pronounced due to the Fund’s focus on investments in the region.
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Middle East and North Africa Region. The Fund is particularly susceptible to risks related to economic, political, regulatory, legal, social or other events or conditions affecting issuers in, or those that have investment exposure to, the Middle East and North Africa region. The economies of many Middle Eastern and North African countries have experienced local and regional conflicts including terrorist activity, religious, ethnic and/or socio-economic unrest, acts of war or other conflicts in the region, as well as elevated and volatile interest rates, inflation rates and unemployment rates. Currency devaluations and exchange rate volatility have also been common among Middle Eastern and North African economies. Relatively high dependence upon commodities, such as petroleum and minerals amongst others, may cause certain Middle Eastern and North African economies to be particularly sensitive to fluctuations in commodity prices. International economic conditions, trade arrangements and flow of international capital may have a significant impact on Middle Eastern and North African economies due to their relatively heavy reliance upon international trade. Middle Eastern and North African economies may also be susceptible to adverse government regulatory and economic intervention and controls which may negatively impact economic growth. Limitations in the ability to repatriate investment income, capital or the proceeds of the sale of securities from Middle Eastern and North African countries could adversely affect the Fund. Other risks associated with investments in Middle Eastern and North African economies may include inadequate investor protections, less developed custody, settlement, regulatory, accounting, auditing and financial standards, unfavorable changes in laws or regulations, natural disasters, corruption and military activity. The risks described under “Emerging Market Securities Risk,” “Frontier Market Risk,” and “Foreign Securities Risk” may be more pronounced due to the Fund’s focus on investments in the region.
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India. The Fund is particularly susceptible to risks related to economic, political, regulatory or other events or conditions affecting issuers in India. Because the Fund invests predominantly in Indian securities, its NAV will be much more sensitive to changes in economic, political and other factors within India than would a fund that invested in a variety of countries. Special risks include, among others, political and legal uncertainty, persistent religious, ethnic and border disputes, greater government control over the economy, currency fluctuations or blockage and the risk of nationalization or expropriation of assets. Uncertainty regarding inflation and currency exchange rates, fiscal policy, credit ratings and the possibility that future harmful political actions will be taken by the Indian government, could negatively impact the Indian economy and securities markets, and thus adversely affect the Fund’s performance. The risks described under “Emerging Market Securities Risk,” “Frontier Market Risk,” and “Foreign Securities Risk” may be more pronounced due to the Fund’s focus on investments in the region.
The Indian government has exercised, and continues to exercise, significant influence over many aspects of the economy, and the number of public sector enterprises in India is substantial. Accordingly, Indian government actions in the future could have a significant effect on the Indian economy, which could affect private sector companies, market conditions, and prices and yields of securities in the Fund’s portfolio. The Fund’s performance will also be affected by changes in value of the Indian rupee versus the U.S. dollar. For example, if the value of the U.S. dollar goes up compared to the Indian rupee, an investment traded in the rupee will go down in value because it will be worth fewer U.S. dollars. Furthermore, the Fund may incur costs in connection with conversions between U.S. dollars and rupees.
Indian issuers are subject to less regulation and scrutiny with regard to financial reporting, accounting and auditing than U.S. companies. Information regarding Indian corporations may be less reliable and all material information may not be available to the Fund. Securities laws in India are relatively new and unsettled and, consequently, there is a risk of rapid and unpredictable change in laws regarding foreign investment, securities regulation, title to securities and shareholder rights. Accordingly, foreign investors may be adversely affected by new or amended laws and regulations. In addition, it may be difficult to obtain and enforce a judgment in a court in India. It may not be possible for the Fund to effect service of process
The Indian government has exercised, and continues to exercise, significant influence over many aspects of the economy, and the number of public sector enterprises in India is substantial. Accordingly, Indian government actions in the future could have a significant effect on the Indian economy, which could affect private sector companies, market conditions, and prices and yields of securities in the Fund’s portfolio. The Fund’s performance will also be affected by changes in value of the Indian rupee versus the U.S. dollar. For example, if the value of the U.S. dollar goes up compared to the Indian rupee, an investment traded in the rupee will go down in value because it will be worth fewer U.S. dollars. Furthermore, the Fund may incur costs in connection with conversions between U.S. dollars and rupees.
Indian issuers are subject to less regulation and scrutiny with regard to financial reporting, accounting and auditing than U.S. companies. Information regarding Indian corporations may be less reliable and all material information may not be available to the Fund. Securities laws in India are relatively new and unsettled and, consequently, there is a risk of rapid and unpredictable change in laws regarding foreign investment, securities regulation, title to securities and shareholder rights. Accordingly, foreign investors may be adversely affected by new or amended laws and regulations. In addition, it may be difficult to obtain and enforce a judgment in a court in India. It may not be possible for the Fund to effect service of process
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in India, and if the Fund obtains a judgment in a U.S. court, it may be difficult to enforce such judgment in India. The stock markets in the region are undergoing a period of growth and change, which may result in trading or price volatility and difficulties in the settlement and recording of transactions, and in interpreting and applying the relevant laws and regulations. The securities industries in India are comparatively underdeveloped, and stockbrokers and other intermediaries may not perform as well as their counterparts in the United States and other more developed securities markets and which may impose additional costs on investment.
The Indian population is comprised of diverse religious, linguistic, ethnic and religious groups. India has, from time to time, experienced civil unrest and hostility with neighboring countries such as Pakistan. Violence and disruption associated with these tensions could have a negative effect on the economy and, consequently, adversely affect the Fund. Agriculture occupies a prominent position in the Indian economy, alongside India’s service and industrial sectors. Adverse changes in weather, including monsoons, and other natural disasters in India and surrounding regions can have a significant adverse effect on the Indian economy, which could adversely affect the Fund.
The Indian population is comprised of diverse religious, linguistic, ethnic and religious groups. India has, from time to time, experienced civil unrest and hostility with neighboring countries such as Pakistan. Violence and disruption associated with these tensions could have a negative effect on the economy and, consequently, adversely affect the Fund. Agriculture occupies a prominent position in the Indian economy, alongside India’s service and industrial sectors. Adverse changes in weather, including monsoons, and other natural disasters in India and surrounding regions can have a significant adverse effect on the Indian economy, which could adversely affect the Fund.
Global Economic Risk. Global economies and financial markets are increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibility that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region or across the globe. The severity or duration of adverse economic conditions may also be affected by policy changes made by governments or quasi-governmental organizations. The imposition of sanctions by the United States or another government on a country could cause disruptions to the country’s financial system and economy, which could negatively impact the value of securities.
EuroZone. A number of countries in the EU have experienced, and may continue to experience, severe economic and financial difficulties. Additional EU member countries may also fall subject to such difficulties. These events could negatively affect the value and liquidity of the Fund’s investments in euro-denominated securities and derivatives contracts, securities of issuers located in the EU or with significant exposure to EU issuers or countries. If the euro is dissolved entirely, the legal and contractual consequences for holders of euro-denominated obligations and derivative contracts would be determined by laws in effect at such time. Such investments may continue to be held, or purchased, to the extent consistent with the Fund’s investment objective and permitted under applicable law. These potential developments, or market perceptions concerning these and related issues, could adversely affect the value of your investment in the Fund.
Certain countries in the EU have had to accept assistance from supra-governmental agencies such as the International Monetary Fund, the European Stability Mechanism (the ESM) or other supra-governmental agencies. The European Central Bank has also been intervening to purchase Eurozone debt in an attempt to stabilize markets and reduce borrowing costs.
There can be no assurance that these agencies will continue to intervene or provide further assistance and markets may react adversely to any expected reduction in the financial support provided by these agencies. Responses to the financial problems by European governments, central banks and others including austerity measures and reforms, may not work, may result in social unrest and may limit future growth and economic recovery or have other unintended consequences. In addition, one or more countries may abandon the euro and/or withdraw from the EU. The impact of these actions, especially if they occur in a disorderly fashion, could be significant and far-reaching.
Brexit. Following the withdrawal by the UK from the EU, the UK and the EU entered into a Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA) in 2021, which governs certain parts of the future relationship between the UK and the EU. The TCA does not provide the UK with the same level of rights or access to all goods and services in the EU as the UK previously maintained as a member of the EU. In particular, the TCA does not include an agreement on financial services. Accordingly, uncertainty remains in certain areas as to the future relationship between the UK and the EU. The uncertainty caused by the UK’s departure from the EU, which occurred in January 2020, could lead to prolonged political, legal, regulatory, tax and economic uncertainty and wider instability and volatility in the financial markets of the UK and more broadly across Europe. It may also lead to weakening corporate and financial confidence in such markets as the UK renegotiates the regulation of the provision of financial services within and to persons in the EU and potentially lower economic growth in the UK, Europe and globally, which may adversely affect the value of your investment in the Fund.
Growth Securities Risk. Growth securities typically trade at a higher multiple of earnings than other types of equity securities. Accordingly, the market values of growth securities may never reach their expected market value and may decline in price. In addition, growth securities, at times, may not perform as well as value securities or the stock market in general, and may be out of favor with investors for varying periods of time. Growth securities may also be sensitive to movements in interest rates.
Hedging Transactions Risk. The Fund may invest in securities and utilize financial instruments for a variety of hedging purposes. Hedging transactions may limit the opportunity for gain if the value of the portfolio position should increase. There can be no assurance that the Fund will engage in hedging transactions at any given time, even under volatile market conditions, or that any hedging transactions the Fund engages in will be successful. Moreover, it may not be possible for the Fund to enter into a hedging transaction at a price sufficient to protect its assets. The Fund may not anticipate a particular risk so as to hedge against it.
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Hedging against a decline in the value of a portfolio position does not eliminate fluctuations in the values of portfolio positions or prevent losses, but establishes other positions designed to gain from those same developments, which moderates the decline in value. Such hedging transactions also limit the opportunity for gain if the value of the portfolio position should increase. Moreover, it may not be possible for the Fund to hedge against an exchange rate, interest rate or security price fluctuation that is generally anticipated, causing it to be unable to enter into a hedging transaction at a price sufficient to protect its assets from the decline in value of the portfolio positions anticipated as a result of such fluctuations.
The Fund is not required to attempt to hedge portfolio positions and, for various reasons, may determine not to do so. Furthermore, the Fund may not anticipate a particular risk so as to hedge against it. While the Fund may enter into hedging transactions to seek to reduce risk, such transactions may result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund than if the Fund had not engaged in any such hedging transaction. In addition, the degree of correlation between price movements of the instruments used in a hedging strategy and price movements in the portfolio position being hedged may vary. For a variety of reasons, the Fund may not seek to establish a perfect correlation between such hedging instruments and the portfolio holdings being hedged. Such imperfect correlation may prevent the Fund from achieving the intended hedge or expose the Fund to the risk of loss. The successful utilization of hedging and risk management transactions requires skills complementary to those needed in the selection of the Fund’s portfolio holdings. Moreover, it should be noted that a portfolio will always be exposed to certain risks that cannot be hedged, such as credit risk (the risk that the issuer of a debt instrument will default or otherwise become unable, or be perceived to be unable or unwilling, to honor a financial obligation, such as making payments to the Fund when due), counterparty risk (the risk that a counterparty to a transaction in a financial instrument held by the Fund may become insolvent or otherwise fail to perform its obligations, including making payments to the Fund) and liquidity risk (the risk that it may not be possible for the Fund to liquidate the instrument at an advantageous time or price).
High-Yield Investments Risk. Securities and other debt instruments held by the Fund that are rated below investment grade (commonly called “high-yield” or “junk” bonds) and unrated debt instruments of comparable quality tend to be more sensitive to credit risk than higher-rated debt instruments and may experience greater price fluctuations in response to perceived changes in the ability of the issuing entity or obligor to pay interest and principal when due than to changes in interest rates. These investments are generally more likely to experience a default than higher-rated debt instruments. High-yield debt instruments are considered to be predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal. These debt instruments typically pay a premium – a higher interest rate or yield – because of the increased risk of loss, including default. High-yield debt instruments may require a greater degree of judgment to establish a price, may be difficult to sell at the time and price the Fund desires, may carry high transaction costs, and also are generally less liquid than higher-rated debt instruments. The ratings provided by third party rating agencies are based on analyses by these ratings agencies of the credit quality of the debt instruments and may not take into account every risk related to whether interest or principal will be timely repaid. In adverse economic and other circumstances, issuers of lower-rated debt instruments are more likely to have difficulty making principal and interest payments than issuers of higher-rated debt instruments.
Highly Leveraged Transactions Risk. The loans or other debt instruments in which the Fund invests may consist of transactions involving refinancings, recapitalizations, mergers and acquisitions and other financings for general corporate purposes. The Fund’s investments also may include senior obligations of a borrower issued in connection with a restructuring pursuant to Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code (commonly known as “debtor-in-possession” financings), provided that such senior obligations are determined by the Fund’s portfolio managers to be a suitable investment for the Fund. In such highly leveraged transactions, the borrower assumes large amounts of debt in order to have the financial resources to attempt to achieve its business objectives. Such business objectives may include but are not limited to: management’s taking over control of a company (leveraged buy-out); reorganizing the assets and liabilities of a company (leveraged recapitalization); or acquiring another company. Loans or other debt instruments that are part of highly leveraged transactions involve a greater risk (including default and bankruptcy) than other investments.
Impairment of Collateral Risk. The value of collateral, if any, securing a loan can decline, and may be insufficient to meet the borrower’s obligations or difficult or costly to liquidate. In addition, the Fund’s access to collateral may be limited by bankruptcy or other insolvency laws. Further, certain floating rate and other loans may not be fully collateralized and may decline in value.
Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the uncertainty over the future real value (after inflation) of an investment. Inflation rates may change frequently and drastically as a result of various factors, including unexpected shifts in the domestic or global economy, and the Fund’s investments may not keep pace with inflation, which may result in losses to Fund investors.
Inflation-Protected Securities Risk. Inflation-protected debt securities tend to react to changes in real interest rates. Real interest rates can be described as nominal interest rates minus the expected impact of inflation. In general, the price of an inflation-protected debt security falls when real interest rates rise, and rises when real interest rates fall. Interest payments on inflation-protected debt securities will vary as the principal and/or interest is adjusted for inflation and may be more volatile than interest paid on ordinary bonds. In periods of deflation, the Fund may have no income at all from such investments. Income earned by a shareholder depends on the amount of principal invested, and that principal will not grow with inflation unless the
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shareholder reinvests the portion of Fund distributions that comes from inflation adjustments. A Fund’s investment in certain inflation-protected debt securities may generate taxable income in excess of the interest they pay to the Fund, which may cause the Fund to sell investments to obtain cash to make income distributions to shareholders, including at times when it may not be advantageous to do so.
Interest Rate Risk. Interest rate risk is the risk of losses attributable to changes in interest rates. In general, if interest rates rise, the values of loans and other debt instruments tend to fall, and if interest rates fall, the values of loans and other debt instruments tend to rise. Changes in the value of a debt instrument usually will not affect the amount of income the Fund receives from it but will generally affect the value of your investment in the Fund. Changes in interest rates may also affect the liquidity of the Fund’s investments in debt instruments. In general, the longer the maturity or duration of a debt instrument, the greater its sensitivity to changes in interest rates. For example, a three-year duration means a bond is expected to decrease in value by 3% if interest rates rise 1% and increase in value by 3% if interest rates fall 1%. Interest rate declines also may increase prepayments of debt obligations, which, in turn, would increase prepayment risk (the risk that the Fund will have to reinvest the money received in securities that have lower yields). The Fund is subject to the risk that the income generated by its investments may not keep pace with inflation. Actions by governments and central banking authorities can result in increases or decreases in interest rates. Higher periods of inflation could lead such authorities to raise interest rates. Such actions may negatively affect the value of debt instruments held by the Fund, resulting in a negative impact on the Fund's performance and NAV. Debt instruments with floating coupon rates are typically less sensitive to interest rate changes, but these debt instruments may decline in value if their coupon rates do not rise as much as, or keep pace with, yields on such types of debt instruments. Because rates on certain floating rate loans and other debt instruments reset only periodically, changes in interest rates (and particularly sudden and significant changes) can be expected to cause fluctuations in the Fund’s NAV. Any interest rate increases could cause the value of the Fund’s investments in debt instruments to decrease. Rising interest rates may prompt redemptions from the Fund, which may force the Fund to sell investments at a time when it is not advantageous to do so, which could result in losses.
Investing in Other Funds Risk. The Fund’s investment in other funds (affiliated and/or unaffiliated funds, including exchange-traded funds (ETFs)) subjects the Fund to the investment performance (positive or negative) and risks of the underlying funds in direct proportion to the Fund’s investment therein. In addition, investments in ETFs have unique characteristics, including, but not limited to, the expense structure and additional expenses associated with investing in ETFs. The performance of the underlying funds could be adversely affected if other investors in the same underlying funds make relatively large investments or redemptions in such underlying funds. The Fund, and its stockholders, indirectly bear a portion of the expenses of any funds in which the Fund invests. Due to the expenses and costs of an underlying fund being shared by its investors, redemptions by other investors in the underlying funds could result in decreased economies of scale and increased operating expenses for such underlying fund. These transactions might also result in higher brokerage, tax or other costs for the underlying funds. This risk may be particularly important when one investor owns a substantial portion of the underlying funds. The Investment Manager has a conflict of interest in selecting affiliated underlying funds over unaffiliated underlying funds because it receives management fees from affiliated underlying funds, and it has a conflict in selecting among affiliated underlying funds, because the fees paid to it by certain affiliated underlying funds are higher than the fees paid by other affiliated underlying funds. Also, to the extent that the Fund is constrained/restricted from investing (or investing further) in a particular underlying fund for one or more reasons (e.g., underlying fund capacity constraints or regulatory restrictions) or if the Fund chooses to sell its investment in an underlying fund because of poor investment performance or for other reasons, the Fund may have to invest in other underlying funds, including less desirable funds – from a strategy or investment performance standpoint – which could have a negative impact on Fund performance. In addition, Fund performance could be negatively impacted if an appropriate alternate underlying fund is not identified in a timely manner or at all.
IPO Risk. IPOs are subject to many of the same risks as investing in companies with smaller market capitalizations. To the extent the Fund determines to invest in IPOs, it may not be able to invest to the extent desired, because, for example, only a small portion (if any) of the securities being offered in an IPO are available to the Fund. The investment performance of the Fund during periods when it is unable to invest significantly or at all in IPOs may be lower than during periods when the Fund is able to do so. In addition, as the Fund increases in size, the impact of IPOs on the Fund’s performance will generally decrease. IPOs sold within 12 months of purchase may result in increased short-term capital gains, which will be taxable to the Fund’s shareholders as ordinary income.
Issuer Risk. An issuer in which the Fund invests or to which it has exposure may perform poorly or below expectations, and the value of its loans or securities may therefore decline, which may negatively affect the Fund’s performance. Underperformance of an issuer may be caused by poor management decisions, competitive pressures, breakthroughs in technology, reliance on suppliers, labor problems or shortages, corporate restructurings, fraudulent disclosures, natural disasters, military confrontations and actions, war, other conflicts, terrorism, disease/virus outbreaks, epidemics or other events, conditions and factors which may impair the value of your investment in the Fund and could result in a greater premium or discount between the market price and the NAV of the Fund's shares and wider bid/ask spreads than those experienced by other closed-end funds.
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Large-Cap Stock Risk. Investments in larger, more established companies (larger companies) may involve certain risks associated with their larger size. For instance, larger companies may be less able to respond quickly to new competitive challenges, such as changes in consumer tastes or innovation from smaller competitors. Also, larger companies are sometimes less able to achieve as high growth rates as successful smaller companies, especially during extended periods of economic expansion.
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Small- and Mid-Cap Stock Risk. Securities of small- and mid-cap companies can, in certain circumstances, have a higher potential for gains than securities of larger companies but are more likely to have more risk than larger companies. For example, small- and mid-cap companies may be more vulnerable to market downturns and adverse business or economic events than larger companies because they may have more limited financial resources and business operations. Small- and mid-cap companies are also more likely than larger companies to have more limited product lines and operating histories and to depend on smaller and generally less experienced management teams. Securities of small- and mid-cap companies may trade less frequently and in smaller volumes and may be less liquid and fluctuate more sharply in value than securities of larger companies. When the Fund takes significant positions in small- and mid-cap companies with limited trading volumes, the liquidation of those positions, particularly in a distressed market, could be prolonged and result in Fund investment losses that would affect the value of your investment in the Fund. In addition, some small- and mid-cap companies may not be widely followed by the investment community, which can lower the demand for their stocks.
Leverage Risk. Leverage occurs when the Fund increases its assets available for investment using borrowings, short sales, derivatives, or similar instruments or techniques. Use of leverage can produce volatility and may exaggerate changes in the Fund’s NAV and in the return on the Fund’s portfolio, which may increase the risk that the Fund will lose more than it has invested. The use of leverage may cause the Fund to liquidate portfolio positions when it may not be advantageous to do so to satisfy its obligations or to meet any applicable regulatory limits. Futures contracts, options on futures contracts, forward contracts and other derivatives can allow the Fund to obtain large investment exposures in return for meeting relatively small margin requirements. As a result, investments in those transactions may be highly leveraged. If the Fund uses leverage, through the purchase of particular instruments such as derivatives, the Fund may experience capital losses that exceed the net assets of the Fund. Because short sales involve borrowing securities and then selling them, the Fund’s short sales effectively leverage the Fund’s assets. The Fund’s assets that are used as collateral to secure the Fund’s obligations to return the securities sold short may decrease in value while the short positions are outstanding, which may force the Fund to use its other assets to increase the collateral. Leverage can create an interest expense that may lower the Fund's overall returns. Leverage presents the opportunity for increased net income and capital gains, but may also exaggerate the Fund's volatility and risk of loss. There can be no guarantee that a leveraging strategy will be successful.
Liquidity Risk. Liquidity risk is the risk associated with any event, circumstance, or characteristic of an investment or market that negatively impacts the Fund’s ability to sell, or realize the proceeds from the sale of, an investment at a desirable time or price. Liquidity risk may arise because of, for example, a lack of marketability of the investment. Decreases in the number of financial institutions, including banks and broker-dealers willing to make markets (match up sellers and buyers) in the Fund’s investments or decreases in their capacity or willingness to trade such investments may increase the Fund’s exposure to this risk. The debt market has experienced considerable growth, and financial institutions making markets in instruments purchased and sold by the Fund (e.g., bond dealers) have been subject to increased regulation. The impact of that growth and regulation on the ability and willingness of financial institutions to engage in trading or “making a market” in such instruments remains unsettled. As a result, the Fund, when seeking to sell its portfolio investments, could find that selling is more difficult than anticipated, especially during times of high market volatility. Market participants attempting to sell the same or a similar instrument at the same time as the Fund could exacerbate the Fund’s exposure to liquidity risk. The Fund may have to accept a lower selling price for the holding, sell other investments that it might otherwise prefer to hold, or forego another more appealing investment opportunity. The liquidity of Fund investments may change significantly over time and certain investments that were liquid when purchased by the Fund may later become illiquid, particularly in times of overall economic distress. Changing regulatory, market or other conditions or environments (for example, the interest rate or credit environments) may also adversely affect the liquidity and the price of the Fund's investments. Certain types of investments, such as structured notes and non-investment grade debt instruments, as an example, may be especially subject to liquidity risk. Floating rate loans also generally are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale and may trade infrequently on the secondary market. The value of the loan to the Fund may be impaired in the event that the Fund needs to liquidate such loans. The inability to purchase or sell floating rate loans and other debt instruments at a fair price may have a negative impact on the Fund’s performance. Securities or other assets in which the Fund invests may be traded in the over-the-counter market rather than on an exchange and therefore may be more difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Judgment plays a larger role in valuing illiquid or less liquid investments as compared to valuing liquid or more liquid investments. Price volatility may be higher for illiquid or less liquid investments as a result of, for example, the relatively less frequent pricing of such securities (as compared to liquid or more liquid investments). Generally, the less
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liquid the market at the time the Fund sells a portfolio investment, the greater the risk of loss or decline of value to the Fund. Overall market liquidity and other factors can lead to an increase in Fund redemptions, which may negatively impact Fund performance and NAV, including, for example, if the Fund is forced to sell investments in a down market.
Governments and their regulatory agencies and self-regulatory organizations may take actions that affect the regulation of the instruments in which the Fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Legislation or regulation may also change the way in which the Fund or the Investment Manager or any Fund subadviser, as the case may be, are regulated or supervised. Such legislation or regulation could affect or preclude a Fund’s ability to achieve its investment objective.
Governments and their regulatory agencies and self-regulatory organizations may also acquire distressed assets from financial institutions and acquire ownership interests in those institutions. The implications of government ownership and disposition of these assets are unclear, and such a program may have positive or negative effects on the liquidity, valuation and performance of a Fund’s portfolio holdings. Furthermore, volatile financial markets can expose the Funds to greater market and liquidity risk and potential difficulty in valuing portfolio instruments held by the Funds.
While the Investment Manager and any subadvisers can endeavor to take various preventative measures to address liquidity risk, including conducting periodic portfolio risk analysis/management and stress-testing, such measures may not be successful and may not have fully accounted for the specific circumstances that ultimately impact a Fund and its holdings.
Listed Private Equity Fund Investment Risk. Private equity funds include financial institutions or vehicles whose principal business is to invest in and lend capital to privately held companies. The Fund is subject to the underlying risks that affect private equity funds in which it invests, which may include increased liquidity risk (the risk that it may not be possible for the Fund to liquidate the instrument at an advantageous time or price), pricing risk (the risk that the investment may be difficult to value), sector risk (the risk that a significant portion of Fund assets invested in one or more economic sectors may make the Fund more vulnerable to unfavorable developments in that sector than funds that invest more broadly) and credit risk (the risk that the issuer of a debt instrument will default or otherwise become unable, or be perceived to be unable or unwilling, to honor a financial obligation, such as making payments to the Fund when due). Limited or incomplete information about the companies in which private equity funds invest, and relatively concentrated investment portfolios of private equity funds, may expose the Fund to greater volatility and risk of loss. Fund investment in private equity funds subjects Fund shareholders indirectly to the fees and expenses incurred by private equity funds.
Loan Assignment/Loan Participation Risk. If a bank loan is acquired through an assignment, the Fund may not be able to unilaterally enforce all rights and remedies under the loan and with regard to any associated collateral. If a bank loan is acquired through a participation, the Fund generally will have no right to enforce compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement, and the Fund may not benefit from the collateral supporting the debt obligation in which it has purchased the participation. As a result, the Fund will be exposed to the credit risk of both the borrower and the institution selling the participation.
Loan Interests Risk. Loan interests may not be considered “securities,” and purchasers, such as the Fund, therefore may not be entitled to rely on the anti-fraud protections of the federal securities laws. Loan interests generally are subject to restrictions on transfer, and the Fund may be unable to sell loan interests at a time when it may otherwise be desirable to do so or may be able to sell them only at prices that are less than what the Fund regards as their fair market value. Accordingly, loan interests may at times be illiquid. Loan interests may be difficult to value and typically have extended settlement periods (generally greater than 7 days). This exposes the Fund to the risk that the receipt of principal and interest payments may be late due to delayed interest settlement. Extended settlement periods during significant Fund redemption activity could potentially cause increased short-term liquidity demands on the Fund. As a result, the Fund may be forced to sell investments at unfavorable prices, or borrow money or effect short settlements where possible (at a cost to the Fund), in an effort to generate sufficient cash to pay redeeming stockholders. The Fund’s actions in this regard may not be successful. Interests in loans created to finance highly leveraged companies or transactions, such as corporate acquisitions, may be especially vulnerable to adverse changes in economic or market conditions.
Interests in secured loans have the benefit of collateral and, typically, of restrictive covenants limiting the ability of the borrower to further encumber its assets, although many covenants may be waived or modified with the consent of a certain percentage of the holders of the loans even if the Fund does not consent. There is a risk that the value of any collateral securing a loan in which the Fund has an interest may decline and that the collateral may not be sufficient to cover the amount owed on the loan. In most loan agreements there is no formal requirement to pledge additional collateral. In the event the borrower defaults, the Fund’s access to the collateral may be limited or delayed by bankruptcy or other insolvency laws. Further, there is a risk that a court could take action with respect to a loan that is adverse to the holders of the loan, including the Fund. Such actions may include invalidating the loan, the lien on the collateral, the priority status of the loan, or ordering the refund of interest previously paid by the borrower. Any such actions by a court could adversely affect the Fund’s performance. A default or expected default of a loan could also make it difficult for the Fund to sell the loan at a price approximating the value previously placed on it. In order to
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enforce its rights in the event of a default, bankruptcy or similar situation, the Fund may be required to retain legal or similar counsel. This may increase the Fund’s operating expenses and adversely affect its NAV. Loans that have a lower priority for repayment in an issuer’s capital structure may involve a higher degree of overall risk than more senior loans of the same borrower. In the event of a default, second lien secured loans will generally be paid only if the value of the collateral exceeds the amount of the borrower’s obligations to the first lien secured lenders. The remaining collateral may not be sufficient to cover the full amount owed on the loan in which the Fund has an interest. In addition, if a secured loan is foreclosed, the Fund would likely bear the costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. The collateral may be difficult to sell and the Fund would bear the risk that the collateral may decline in value while the Fund is holding it. From time to time, disagreements may arise amongst the holders of loans and debt in the capital structure of an issuer, which may give rise to litigation risks, including the risk that a court could take action adverse to the holders of the loan, which could negatively impact the Fund’s performance.
The Fund may acquire a loan interest by obtaining an assignment of all or a portion of the interests in a particular loan that are held by an original lender or a prior assignee. As an assignee, the Fund will usually succeed to all rights and obligations of its assignor with respect to the portion of the loan that is being assigned. However, the rights and obligations acquired by the purchaser of a loan assignment may differ from, and be more limited than, those held by the original lenders or the assignor. Alternatively, the Fund may acquire a participation interest in a loan that is held by another party. When the Fund’s loan interest is a participation, the Fund may have less control over the exercise of remedies than the party selling the participation interest, and the Fund normally would not have any direct rights against the borrower. As a participant, the Fund would also be subject to the risk that the party selling the participation interest would not remit the Fund’s pro rata share of loan payments to the Fund. It may also be difficult for the Fund to obtain an accurate picture of a lending bank’s financial condition.
Macro Strategy Risk. The profitability of any macro program depends primarily on the ability of its manager to predict derivative contract price movements to implement investment ideas regarding macroeconomic trends. Price movements for commodity interests are influenced by, among other things: changes in interest rates; governmental, agricultural, trade, fiscal, monetary and exchange control programs and policies; weather and climate conditions; natural disasters, such as hurricanes; changing supply and demand relationships; changes in balances of payments and trade; U.S. and international rates of inflation and deflation; currency devaluations and revaluations; U.S. and international political and economic events; and changes in philosophies and emotions of market participants. The trading methods used by the portfolio managers may not take all of these factors into account.
The global macro programs to which the Fund’s investments are exposed typically use derivative financial instruments that are actively traded using a variety of strategies and investment techniques that involve significant risks. The derivative financial instruments traded include commodities, currencies, futures, options and forward contracts and other derivative instruments that have inherent leverage and price volatility that result in greater risk than instruments used within different or other strategies, and the systematic programs used to trade them may rely on proprietary investment strategies that are not fully disclosed, which may in turn result in risks that are not anticipated.
Market Risk. The Fund may incur losses due to declines in the value of one or more securities in which it invests. These declines may be due to factors affecting a particular issuer, or the result of, among other things, political, regulatory, market, economic or social developments affecting the relevant market(s) more generally. In addition, turbulence in financial markets and reduced liquidity in equity, credit and/or fixed income markets may negatively affect many issuers, which could adversely affect the Fund’s ability to price or value hard-to-value assets in thinly traded and closed markets and could cause significant redemptions and operational challenges. Global economies and financial markets are increasingly interconnected, and conditions and events in one country, region or financial market may adversely impact issuers in a different country, region or financial market. These risks may be magnified if certain events or developments adversely interrupt the global supply chain; in these and other circumstances, such risks might affect companies worldwide. As a result, local, regional or global events such as terrorism, war, other conflicts, natural disasters, disease/virus outbreaks and epidemics or other public health issues, recessions, depressions or other events – or the potential for such events – could have a significant negative impact on global economic and market conditions and could result in a greater premium or discount between the market price and the NAV of the Fund's shares and wider bid/ask spreads than those experienced by other closed-end funds. In addition, as the share of assets invested in passive index-based strategies increases, price correlations among the securities included in an index may increase and the market value of securities, including those included in one or more market indices, may become less correlated with their underlying values. Because index-based strategies generally buy or sell securities based solely on their inclusion in an index, securities prices may rise or fall based on whether money is flowing into or out of these strategies rather than based on an analysis of the securities’ underlying values. This valuation disparity could lead to increased price volatility for individual securities, and the market as a whole, which may result in Fund losses.
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In March 2023, a number of U.S. domestic banks and foreign banks experienced financial difficulties and, in some cases, failures. There can be no certainty that the actions taken by banking regulators to limit the effect of those difficulties and failures on other banks or other financial institutions or on the U.S. or foreign economies generally will be effective. It is possible that more banks or other financial institutions will experience financial difficulties or fail, which may affect adversely other U.S. or foreign financial institutions and economies. Other adverse developments that affect financial institutions or the financial services industry generally, or concerns or rumors about any such developments, may reduce liquidity in the market generally or have other adverse effects on an economy, a Fund or issuers in which the Fund invests.
The large-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia in February 2022 has resulted in sanctions and market disruptions, including declines in regional and global stock markets, unusual volatility in global commodity markets and significant devaluations of Russian currency. The extent and duration of the military action are impossible to predict but could continue to be significant. Market disruption caused by the Russian military action, and any countermeasures or responses thereto (including international sanctions, a downgrade in a country’s credit rating, purchasing and financing restrictions, boycotts, tariffs, changes in consumer or purchaser preferences, cyberattacks and espionage) could continue to have severe adverse impacts on regional and/or global securities and commodities markets, including markets for oil and natural gas. These impacts may include reduced market liquidity, distress in credit markets, further disruption of global supply chains, increased risk of inflation, and limited access to investments in certain international markets and/or issuers. These developments and other related events could negatively impact Fund performance.
The pandemic caused by coronavirus disease 2019 and its variants (COVID-19) has resulted in, and may continue to result in, significant global economic and societal disruption and market volatility due to disruptions in market access, resource availability, facilities operations, imposition of tariffs, export controls and supply chain disruption, among others. Such disruptions may be caused, or exacerbated by, quarantines and travel restrictions, workforce displacement and loss in human and other resources. The uncertainty surrounding the magnitude, duration, reach, costs and effects of the global pandemic, as well as actions that have been or could be taken by governmental authorities or other third parties, present unknowns that are yet to unfold. The impacts, as well as the uncertainty over impacts to come, of COVID-19 – and any other infectious illness outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics that may arise in the future – could negatively affect global economies and markets in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen. In addition, the impact of infectious illness outbreaks and epidemics in less developed countries may be greater due to generally less established healthcare systems, governments and financial markets. Public health crises caused by the COVID-19 outbreak may exacerbate other pre-existing political, social and economic risks in certain countries or globally. The disruptions caused by COVID-19 could prevent the Fund from executing advantageous investment decisions in a timely manner and negatively impact the Fund’s ability to achieve its investment objective. Any such events could have a significant adverse impact on the value and risk profile of the Fund.
Master Limited Partnership Risk. Investments in securities (units) of master limited partnerships involve risks that differ from an investment in common stock. Holders of these units have more limited rights to vote on matters affecting the partnership. These units may be subject to cash flow and dilution risks. There are also certain tax risks associated with such an investment. In particular, the Fund’s investment in master limited partnerships can be limited by the Fund’s intention to qualify as a regulated investment company for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and can limit the Fund’s ability to so qualify. In addition, conflicts of interest may exist between common unit holders, subordinated unit holders and the general partner of a master limited partnership, including a conflict arising as a result of incentive distribution payments. In addition, there are risks related to the general partner’s right to require unit holders to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price.
Money Market Fund Investment Risk. An investment in a money market fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by any bank, the FDIC or any other government agency. Certain money market funds float their NAV while others seek to preserve the value of investments at a stable NAV (typically $1.00 per share). An investment in a money market fund, even an investment in a fund seeking to maintain a stable NAV per share, is not guaranteed and it is possible for the Fund to lose money by investing in these and other types of money market funds. Certain money market funds (including the Fund’s cash sweep vehicle) must impose a mandatory liquidity fee on redemptions if daily net redemptions exceed 5% of their net assets and certain money market funds (including the Fund’s cash sweep vehicle) may impose a discretionary liquidity fee of up to 2% on redemptions if that fee is determined to be in the best interest of the money market fund. The amount of any mandatory liquidity fee will represent a good faith estimate of the costs of liquidating a pro rata portion of each of the money market fund’s portfolio holdings to meet the redemptions, or 1% if such an amount cannot be estimated. Such fees, if imposed, will reduce the amount the Fund receives on redemptions. In addition to the fees and expenses that the Fund directly bears, the Fund indirectly bears the fees and expenses of any money market funds in which it invests, including affiliated money market funds. By investing in a money market fund, the Fund will be exposed to the investment risks of the money market fund in direct proportion to such investment. The money market fund may not achieve its investment objective. The Fund, through its investment in the money market fund, may not achieve its investment objective. To the extent the Fund invests in instruments such as derivatives, the Fund may hold investments, which may be significant, in money market fund shares to cover its obligations resulting from the Fund’s
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investments in such instruments. Money market funds and the securities they invest in are subject to comprehensive regulations. The enactment of new legislation or regulations, as well as changes in interpretation and enforcement of current laws, may affect the manner of operation, performance and/or yield of money market funds.
Mortgage- and Other Asset-Backed Securities Risk. The value of any mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities including collateralized debt obligations and collateralized loan obligations, if any, held by the Fund may be affected by, among other things, changes or perceived changes in: interest rates; factors concerning the interests in and structure of the issuer or the originator of the mortgages or other assets; the creditworthiness of the entities that provide any supporting letters of credit, surety bonds or other credit enhancements; or the market's assessment of the quality of underlying assets. Mortgage-backed securities represent interests in, or are backed by, pools of mortgages from which payments of interest and principal (net of fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of the securities) are distributed to the holders of the mortgage-backed securities. Other types of asset-backed securities typically represent interests in, or are backed by, pools of receivables such as credit, automobile, student and home equity loans. Mortgage- and other asset-backed securities can have a fixed or an adjustable rate. Mortgage- and other asset-backed securities are subject to liquidity risk (the risk that it may not be possible for the Fund to liquidate the instrument at an advantageous time or price) and prepayment risk (the risk that the underlying mortgage or other asset may be refinanced or prepaid prior to maturity during periods of declining or low interest rates, causing the Fund to have to reinvest the money received in securities that have lower yields). In addition, the impact of prepayments on the value of mortgage- and other asset-backed securities may be difficult to predict and may result in greater volatility. A decline or flattening of housing values may cause delinquencies in mortgages (especially sub-prime or non-prime mortgages) underlying mortgage-backed securities and thereby adversely affect the ability of the mortgage-backed securities issuer to make principal and/or interest payments to mortgage-backed securities holders, including the Fund. Rising or high interest rates tend to extend the duration of mortgage- and other asset-backed securities, making them more volatile and more sensitive to changes in interest rates. Payment of principal and interest on some mortgage-backed securities (but not the market value of the securities themselves) may be guaranteed (i) by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government (in the case of securities guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association) or (ii) by its agencies, authorities, enterprises or instrumentalities (in the case of securities guaranteed by the Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA) or the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC)), which are not insured or guaranteed by the U.S. Government (although FNMA and FHLMC may be able to access capital from the U.S. Treasury to meet their obligations under such securities). Mortgage-backed securities issued by non-governmental issuers (such as commercial banks, savings and loan institutions, private mortgage insurance companies, mortgage bankers and other secondary market issuers) may be supported by various credit enhancements, such as pool insurance, guarantees issued by governmental entities, letters of credit from a bank or senior/subordinated structures, and may entail greater risk than obligations guaranteed by the U.S. Government, whether or not such obligations are guaranteed by the private issuer. Under the direction of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, FNMA and FHLMC have entered into a joint initiative to develop a common securitization platform for the issuance of a uniform mortgage-backed security (the Single Security Initiative) that aligns the characteristics of FNMA and FHLMC certificates. The Single Security Initiative was implemented in June 2019, and the effects it may have on the market for mortgage-backed securities are uncertain.
Multi-Strategy Risk. The multi-strategy approach employed by the Fund involves special risks, which include the risk that investment decisions, at the Fund or the underlying fund level, may conflict with each other; for example, at any particular time, one manager may be purchasing shares of an issuer whose shares are being sold by another manager. Consequently, the Fund could indirectly incur transaction costs without accomplishing any net investment result. Also, managers may use proprietary or licensed investment strategies that are based on considerations and factors that are not fully disclosed to the Fund or other investors.
Moreover, consistent with the Fund’s investment objectives, these proprietary or licensed investment strategies, which may include quantitative mathematical models or systems, may be changed or refined over time. A manager (or the licensor of the strategies used by the manager) may make certain changes to the strategies the manager has previously used, may not use such strategies at all (or the manager’s license may be revoked), or may use additional strategies, where such changes or discretionary decisions, and the reasons for such changes or decisions, are also not disclosed to the Fund or other investors. These strategies may involve risks under some market conditions that are not anticipated by the Investment Manager or the Fund.
Municipal Securities Risk. Municipal securities are debt obligations generally issued to obtain funds for various public purposes, including general financing for state and local governments, or financing for a specific project or public facility, and include obligations of the governments of the U.S. territories, commonwealths and possessions such as Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to the extent such obligations are exempt from state and U.S. federal income taxes. The value of municipal securities can be significantly affected by actual or expected political and legislative changes at the federal or state level. Municipal securities may be fully or partially backed by the taxing authority of the local government, by the credit of a private issuer, by the current or anticipated revenues from a specific project or specific assets or by domestic or foreign entities providing credit support, such as letters of credit, guarantees or insurance, and are generally classified into general obligation bonds and special revenue obligations. General obligation bonds are backed by an issuer's taxing authority and may be
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vulnerable to limits on a government's power or ability to raise revenue or increase taxes. They may also depend for payment on legislative appropriation and/or funding or other support from other governmental bodies. Revenue obligations are payable from revenues generated by a particular project or other revenue source, and are typically subject to greater risk of default than general obligation bonds because investors can look only to the revenue generated by the project or other revenue source backing the project, rather than to the general taxing authority of the state or local government issuer of the obligations. Because many municipal securities are issued to finance projects in sectors such as education, health care, transportation and utilities, conditions in those sectors can affect the overall municipal market. The amount of publicly available information for municipal issuers is generally less than for corporate issuers.
Issuers in a state, territory, commonwealth or possession in which the Fund invests may experience significant financial difficulties for various reasons, including as the result of events that cannot be reasonably anticipated or controlled such as economic downturns or similar periods of economic stress, social conflict or unrest, labor disruption and natural disasters. Such financial difficulties may lead to credit rating downgrades or defaults of such issuers which, in turn, could affect the market values and marketability of many or all municipal obligations of issuers in such state, territory, commonwealth or possession. The value of the Fund’s shares will be negatively impacted to the extent it invests in such securities. The Fund’s annual and semiannual reports show the Fund’s investment exposures at a point in time. The risk of investing in the Fund is directly correlated to the Fund’s investment exposures.
Non-Diversified Fund Risk. A non-diversified Fund generally may invest a greater percentage of its total assets in the securities of fewer issuers than a “diversified” fund. This increases the risk that a change in the value of any one investment held by the Fund could affect the overall value of the Fund more than it would affect that of a diversified fund holding a greater number of investments. Accordingly, the Fund's value will likely be more volatile than the value of a more diversified fund.
Opportunistic Investing Risk. Undervalued securities involve the risk that they may never reach their expected full market value, either because the market fails to recognize the security's intrinsic worth or the expected value was misgauged. Securities that are believed to be undervalued by the portfolio managers may decline in price. Turnaround companies may never improve their fundamentals, may take much longer than expected to improve, or may improve much less than expected. Development stage companies could fail to develop and deplete their assets, resulting in large percentage losses.
Preferred Stock Risk. Preferred stock is a type of stock that may pay dividends at a different rate than common stock of the same issuer, if at all, and that has preference over common stock in the payment of dividends and the liquidation of assets. Preferred stock does not ordinarily carry voting rights. The price of a preferred stock is generally determined by earnings, type of products or services, projected growth rates, experience of management, liquidity, and general market conditions of the markets on which the stock trades. The most significant risks associated with investments in preferred stock include issuer risk, market risk and interest rate risk (the risk of losses attributable to changes in interest rates).
Prepayment and Extension Risk. Prepayment and extension risk is the risk that a loan, bond or other security or investment might, in the case of prepayment risk, be called or otherwise converted, prepaid or redeemed before maturity and, in the case of extension risk, that the investment might not be called as expected. In the case of prepayment risk, if the investment is converted, prepaid or redeemed before maturity, the portfolio managers may not be able to invest the proceeds in other investments providing as high a level of income, resulting in a reduced yield to the Fund. As interest rates decrease or spreads narrow on such investments, the likelihood of prepayment increases. Conversely, extension risk is the risk that an unexpected rise in interest rates will extend the life of an investment beyond the prepayment time. If the Fund's investments are locked in at a lower interest rate for a longer period of time, the portfolio managers may be unable to capitalize on investments with higher interest rates or wider spreads.
Private Investments in Public Equity (PIPEs) Risk. PIPEs are equity securities purchased in a private placement that are issued by issuers who have outstanding, publicly traded equity securities of the same class. Shares in PIPEs are not registered with the SEC and may not be sold unless registered with the SEC or pursuant to an exemption from registration. This restricted period can last many months. Until the public registration process is completed, the resale of the PIPE shares is restricted and the Fund may sell the shares after six months, with certain restrictions, if the Fund is not an affiliate of the issuer (under relevant securities law, a holder of restricted shares may sell the shares after 6 months if the holder is not affiliated to the issuer). Generally, such restrictions cause the PIPEs to be illiquid during this time. If the issuer does not agree to register the PIPE shares, the shares will remain restricted, not be freely tradable and may only be sold pursuant to an exemption from registration. Even if the PIPE shares are registered for resale, there is no assurance that the registration will be in effect at the time the Fund elects to sell the shares.
Qualified Financial Contracts Risk. Qualified financial contracts include agreements relating to swaps, currency forwards and other derivatives as well as repurchase agreements and securities lending agreements. Beginning in 2019, regulations adopted by prudential regulators will require certain qualified financial contracts entered into with certain counterparties that are part of a U.S. or foreign banking organization designated as a global-systemically important banking organization to include contractual provisions that delay or restrict the rights of counterparties, such as the Funds, to exercise certain close-out, cross-default and
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similar rights under certain conditions. Qualified financial contracts are subject to a stay for a specified time period during which counterparties, such as the Funds, will be prevented from closing out a qualified financial contract if the counterparty is subject to resolution proceedings and prohibit the Funds from exercising default rights due to a receivership or similar proceeding of an affiliate of the counterparty. Implementation of these requirements may increase credit and other risks to the Funds.
Quantitative Models Risk. Any quantitative models used by the Fund may not effectively identify purchases and sales of Fund investments and may cause the Fund to underperform other investment strategies for short or long periods of time. Performance will depend upon the quality and accuracy of the assumptions, theories and framework upon which a quantitative model is based. The success of a quantitative model will depend upon its accurate reflection of market conditions, with proper adjustments as market conditions change over time. Adjustments, or lack of adjustments, to the quantitative model, including as conditions change, as well as any errors or imperfections in the quantitative model, could adversely affect Fund performance. The performance of a quantitative model depends upon the quality of its design and effective execution under actual market conditions. Even a well-designed quantitative model cannot be expected to perform well in all market conditions or across all time intervals. Quantitative models may underperform in certain market environments including stressed or volatile market conditions. Effective execution may depend, in part, upon subjective selection and application of factors and data inputs used by the quantitative model. Discretion may be used by the portfolio management team when determining the data collected and incorporated into a quantitative model. Shareholders should be aware that there is no guarantee that any specific data or type of data can or will be used in a quantitative model. The portfolio management team may also use discretion when interpreting and applying the results of a quantitative model, including emphasizing, discounting or disregarding its outputs. It is not possible or practicable for a quantitative model to factor in all relevant, available data. There is no guarantee that the data actually utilized in a quantitative model will be the most accurate data available or be free from errors. There can be no assurance that the use of any quantitative models will enable the Fund to achieve its objective.
Real Estate-Related Investment Risk. Investments in real estate investment trusts (REITs) and in securities of other companies (wherever organized) principally engaged in the real estate industry subject the Fund to, among other things, risks similar to those of direct investments in real estate and the real estate industry in general. These include risks related to general and local economic conditions, possible lack of availability of financing and changes in interest rates or property values. REITs are entities that either own properties or make construction or mortgage loans, and also may include operating or finance companies. The value of interests in a REIT may be affected by, among other factors, changes in the value of the underlying properties owned by the REIT, changes in the prospect for earnings and/or cash flow growth of the REIT itself, defaults by borrowers or tenants, market saturation, decreases in market rates for rents, and other economic, political, or regulatory matters affecting the real estate industry, including REITs. REITs and similar non-U.S. entities depend upon specialized management skills, may have limited financial resources, may have less trading volume in their securities, and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements than the overall securities markets. In a rising interest rate environment, the stock prices of real estate-related investments may decline and the borrowing costs of these companies may increase. REITs are also subject to the risk of failing to qualify for favorable tax treatment under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The failure of a REIT to continue to qualify as a REIT for tax purposes can materially and adversely affect its value. Some REITs (especially mortgage REITs) are affected by risks similar to those associated with investments in debt securities including changes in interest rates and the quality of credit extended.
Regulatory Risk — Alternative Investments. Legal, tax, and regulatory developments may adversely affect the Fund and its investments. The regulatory environment for the Fund and certain of its investments is evolving, and changes in the regulation of investment funds, their managers, and their trading activities and capital markets, or a regulator’s disagreement with the Fund’s or others’ interpretation of the application of certain regulations, may adversely affect the ability of the Fund to pursue its investment strategy, its ability to obtain leverage and financing, and the value of investments held by the Fund. There has been an increase in governmental, as well as self-regulatory, scrutiny of the investment industry in general and the alternative investment industry in particular. It is impossible to predict what, if any, changes in regulations may occur, but any regulation that restricts the ability of the Fund or any underlying funds or other investments to trade in securities or other instruments or the ability of the Fund or underlying funds to employ, or brokers and other counterparties to extend, credit in their trading (as well as other regulatory changes that result) could have a material adverse impact on the Fund’s performance.
The Fund’s business is dynamic and is expected to change over time. Therefore, the Fund and its underlying investments may be subject to new or additional regulatory constraints in the future. Such regulations may have a significant impact on stockholders or the operations of the Fund, including, without limitation, restricting the types of investments the Fund may make, preventing the Fund from exercising its voting rights with regard to certain financial instruments, requiring the Fund to disclose the identity of its investors or otherwise. To the extent the Fund or its underlying investments are subject to such regulation, such regulations may have a detrimental effect on one or more stockholders. Prospective investors are encouraged to consult their own advisors regarding an investment in the Fund.
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Regulatory Risk — Money Market Funds. Money market funds and the securities they invest in are subject to comprehensive regulations. The enactment of new legislation or regulations, as well as changes in interpretation and enforcement of current laws, may affect the manner of operation, performance and/or yield of money market funds.
Regulatory Risk – U.S. Banking Law. Ameriprise Financial, Inc. is a savings and loan holding association and has elected to be treated as a financial holding company subject to ongoing supervision by the Board of Governors for the Federal Reserve System as well as applicable U.S. federal banking laws, including the Home Owner’s Loan Act and certain parts of the Bank Holding Company Act, including Section 13 thereof (commonly referred to as the Volcker Rule). These laws impose limits on the amount and duration of any proprietary capital held in the Fund by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial, Inc. or certain of their controlled affiliates or products and/or require certain limits on the Fund’s portfolio investments and/or trading restrictions. If the Investment Manager and/or its affiliates is required to reduce their ownership interests in the Fund or the Fund’s Board liquidates the Fund, it may result in losses, increased transaction costs and adverse tax consequences for the Fund, each of which may adversely affect the value of your investment in the Fund.
Reinvestment Risk. Reinvestment risk arises when the Fund is unable to reinvest income or principal at the same or at least the same return it is currently earning.
Repurchase Agreements Risk. Repurchase agreements are agreements in which the seller of a security to the Fund agrees to repurchase that security from the Fund at a mutually agreed upon price and time. Repurchase agreements carry the risk that the counterparty may not fulfill its obligations under the agreement. This could cause the Fund's income and the value of your investment in the Fund to decline.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements Risk. Reverse repurchase agreements are agreements in which a Fund sells a security to a counterparty, such as a bank or broker-dealer, in return for cash and agrees to repurchase that security at a mutually agreed upon price and time. Reverse repurchase agreements carry the risk that the market value of the security sold by the Fund may decline below the price at which the Fund must repurchase the security. Reverse repurchase agreements also may be viewed as a form of borrowing, and borrowed assets used for investment creates leverage risk (the risk that losses may be greater than the amount invested). Leverage can create an interest expense that may lower the Fund's overall returns. Leverage presents the opportunity for increased net income and capital gains, but may also exaggerate the Fund’s volatility and risk of loss. There can be no guarantee that this strategy will be successful.
Rule 144A and Other Exempted Securities Risk. The Fund may invest in privately placed and other securities or instruments exempt from SEC registration (collectively “private placements”), subject to certain regulatory restrictions. In the U.S. market, private placements are typically sold only to qualified institutional buyers, or qualified purchasers, as applicable. An insufficient number of buyers interested in purchasing private placements at a particular time could adversely affect the marketability of such investments and the Fund might be unable to dispose of them promptly or at reasonable prices, subjecting the Fund to liquidity risk (the risk that it may not be possible for the Fund to liquidate the instrument at an advantageous time or price). The Fund’s holdings of private placements may increase the level of Fund illiquidity if eligible buyers are unable or unwilling to purchase them at a particular time. The Fund may also have to bear the expense of registering the securities for resale and the risk of substantial delays in effecting the registration. Additionally, the purchase price and subsequent valuation of private placements typically reflect a discount, which may be significant, from the market price of comparable securities for which a more liquid market exists. Issuers of Rule 144A eligible securities are required to furnish information to potential investors upon request. However, the required disclosure is much less extensive than that required of public companies and is not publicly available since the offering information is not filed with the SEC. Further, issuers of Rule 144A eligible securities can require recipients of the offering information (such as the Fund) to agree contractually to keep the information confidential, which could also adversely affect the Fund’s ability to dispose of the security.
Sector Risk. At times, the Fund may have a significant portion of its assets invested in securities of companies conducting business in a related group of industries within one or more economic sectors. Companies in the same sector may be similarly affected by economic, regulatory, political or market events or conditions, which may make the Fund vulnerable to unfavorable developments in that group of industries or economic sector.
Sector Risk — Consumer Discretionary/Staples Sector Investments. To the extent a Fund concentrates its investments in companies in the consumer discretionary and staples sectors, it is vulnerable to the particular risks that may affect companies in those sectors. Companies in the consumer discretionary and staples sectors are subject to certain risks, including fluctuations in the performance of the overall domestic and international economies, interest rate changes, currency exchange rates, increased competition and consumer confidence. Performance of such companies may be affected by factors including reduced disposable household income, reduced consumer spending, and changing demographics and consumer tastes. Companies in these sectors may be subject to competitive forces (including competition brought by an influx of foreign brands), which may also have an adverse impact on their profitability. These sectors may be strongly affected by fads, marketing campaigns, changes in demographics and consumer preferences, and other economic or social factors affecting consumer demand. Governmental
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regulation, including price controls and regulations on packaging, labeling, competition, and certification, may affect the profitability of certain companies invested in by the Fund. Companies operating in these sectors may also be adversely affected by government and private litigation.
Sector Risk — Energy Sector Investments. To the extent a Fund concentrates its investments in companies in the energy sector, it is vulnerable to the particular risks that may affect companies in that sector. Companies in the energy sector are subject to certain risks, including legislative or regulatory changes, adverse market conditions and increased competition. Performance of such companies may be affected by factors including, among others, fluctuations in energy prices, energy fuel supply and demand factors, energy conservation, the success of exploration projects, local and international policies, and events occurring in nature. For instance, natural events (such as earthquakes, hurricanes or fires in prime natural resources areas) and political events (such as government instability or military confrontations and actions) can affect the value of companies involved in business activities in the energy sector. Other risks may include liabilities for environmental damage and general civil liabilities, depletion of resources, and mandated expenditures for safety and pollution control. The energy sector may also be affected by economic cycles, rising interest rates, high inflation, technical progress, labor relations, legislative or regulatory changes, local and international policies, and adverse market conditions.
Sector Risk — Financials Sector Investments. To the extent a Fund concentrates its investments in companies in the financials sector, it is vulnerable to the particular risks that may affect companies in that sector. Companies in the financials sector are subject to certain risks, including the risk of regulatory change, decreased liquidity in credit markets and unstable interest rates. Such companies may have concentrated portfolios, such as a high level of loans to one or more industries or sectors, which makes them vulnerable to economic conditions that affect such industries or sectors. Performance of such companies may be affected by competitive pressures and exposure to investments, agreements and counterparties, including credit products that, under certain circumstances, may lead to losses (e.g., subprime loans). Companies in the financials sector are subject to extensive governmental regulation that may limit the amount and types of loans and other financial commitments they can make, and the interest rates and fees they may charge. In addition, profitability of such companies is largely dependent upon the availability and the cost of capital.
Sector Risk — Health Care Sector Investments. To the extent a Fund concentrates its investments in companies in the health care sector, it is vulnerable to the particular risks that may affect companies in that sector. Companies in the health care sector are subject to certain risks, including restrictions on government reimbursement for medical expenses, government approval of medical products and services, competitive pricing pressures, and the rising cost of medical products and services (especially for companies dependent upon a relatively limited number of products or services), among others. Performance of such companies may be affected by factors including government regulation, obtaining and protecting patents (or the failure to do so), product liability and other similar litigation as well as product obsolescence.
Sector Risk — Industrials Sector Investments. To the extent a Fund concentrates its investments in companies in the industrials sector, it is vulnerable to the particular risks that may affect companies in that sector. Companies in the industrials sector are subject to certain risks, including changes in supply and demand for their specific product or service and for industrial sector products in general, including decline in demand for such products due to rapid technological developments and frequent new product introduction. Performance of such companies may be affected by factors including government regulation, world events, economic conditions and risks for environmental damage and product liability claims.
Sector Risk — Information Technology Sector Investments. To the extent a Fund concentrates its investments in companies in the information technology sector, it is vulnerable to the particular risks that may affect companies in that sector. Companies in the information technology sector are subject to certain risks, including the risk that new services, equipment or technologies will not be accepted by consumers and businesses or will become rapidly obsolete. Performance of such companies may be affected by factors including obtaining and protecting patents (or the failure to do so) and significant competitive pressures, including aggressive pricing of their products or services, new market entrants, competition for market share and short product cycles due to an accelerated rate of technological developments. Such competitive pressures may lead to limited earnings and/or falling profit margins. As a result, the value of their securities may fall or fail to rise. In addition, many information technology sector companies have limited operating histories and prices of these companies’ securities historically have been more volatile than other securities, especially over the short term. Some companies in the information technology sector are facing increased government and regulatory scrutiny and may be subject to adverse government or regulatory action, which could negatively impact the value of their securities.
Sector Risk — Materials Investments. To the extent a Fund concentrates its investments in companies in the materials sector, it is vulnerable to the particular risks that may affect companies in the materials sector. Companies in the materials sector are subject to certain risks, including that many materials companies are significantly affected by the level and volatility of commodity prices, exchange rates, import controls, increased competition, environmental policies, consumer demand, and events occurring in nature. For instance, natural events (such as earthquakes, hurricanes or fires in prime natural resource areas) and political events (such as government instability or military confrontations and actions) can affect the value of companies
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involved in business activities in the materials sector. Performance of such companies may be affected by factors including, among others, that at times worldwide production of industrial materials has exceeded demand as a result of over-building or economic downturns, leading to poor investment returns or losses. Other risks may include liabilities for environmental damage and general civil liabilities, depletion of resources, and mandated expenditures for safety and pollution control. The materials sector may also be affected by economic cycles, rising interest rates, high inflation, technical progress, labor relations, legislative or regulatory changes, local and international policies, and adverse market conditions. In addition, prices of, and thus the Fund’s investments in, precious metals are considered speculative and are affected by a variety of worldwide and economic, financial and political factors. Prices of precious metals may fluctuate sharply.
Sector Risk — Precious Metals Sector Investments. To the extent a Fund concentrates its investments in companies in the precious metals sector, it is vulnerable to the particular risks that may affect the precious metals sector. The precious metals sector is subject to certain risks, including that prices of precious metals are significantly affected by exchange rates, import controls, increased competition, environmental policies, consumer demand, and events occurring in nature. For instance, natural events (such as earthquakes, hurricanes or fires in prime natural resource areas) and political events (such as government instability or military confrontations and actions) can affect the value of precious metals. The value of precious metals may be affected by factors including, among others, economic downturns, leading to poor investment returns or losses. Other risks may include liabilities for environmental damage and general civil liabilities, depletion of resources, and mandated expenditures for safety and pollution control. The precious metals sector may also be affected by economic cycles, rising interest rates, high inflation, technical progress, labor relations, legislative or regulatory changes, local and international policies, and adverse market conditions. In addition, prices of, and thus the Fund’s exposure to, precious metals are considered speculative and are affected by a variety of worldwide and economic, financial and political factors. Prices of precious metals may fluctuate sharply.
Sector Risk — Utilities Sector Investments. To the extent a Fund concentrates its investments in companies in the energy sector, it is vulnerable to the particular risks that may affect companies in that sector. Companies in the utilities sector are subject to certain risks, including risks associated with government regulation, interest rate changes, financing difficulties, supply and demand for services or products, intense competition, natural resource conservation and commodity price fluctuations.
Short Positions Risk. A Fund that establishes short positions introduces more risk to the Fund than a fund that only takes long positions (where the fund owns the instrument or other asset) because the maximum sustainable loss on an instrument or other asset purchased (held long) is limited to the amount paid for the instrument or other asset plus the transaction costs, whereas there is no maximum price of the shorted instrument or other asset when purchased in the open market. Therefore, in theory, short positions have unlimited risk. The Fund’s use of short positions in effect “leverages” the Fund. Leverage potentially exposes the Fund to greater risks of loss due to unanticipated market movements, which may magnify losses and increase the volatility of returns. To the extent the Fund takes a short position in a derivative instrument or other asset, this involves the risk of a potentially unlimited increase in the value of the underlying instrument or other asset. Short sales also involve transaction and other costs that will reduce potential Fund gains and increase potential Fund losses.
Sovereign Debt Risk. The willingness or ability of a sovereign or quasi-sovereign debtor to repay principal and pay interest in a timely manner may be affected by a variety of factors, including its cash flow situation, the extent of its reserves, the availability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the sovereign or quasi-sovereign debtor’s policy toward international lenders, and the political constraints to which such debtor may be subject.
With respect to sovereign or quasi-sovereign debt of emerging market issuers, investors should be aware that certain emerging market countries are among the largest debtors to commercial banks and foreign governments. At times, certain emerging market countries have declared moratoria on the payment of principal and interest on external debt. Certain emerging market countries have experienced difficulty in servicing their sovereign or quasi-sovereign debt on a timely basis and that has led to defaults and the restructuring of certain indebtedness to the detriment of debt holders. Sovereign debt risk is increased for emerging market issuers.
Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) Risk. A SPAC is typically a publicly traded company that raises investment capital via an initial public offering (IPO) for the purpose of acquiring one or more existing companies (or interests therein) via merger, combination, acquisition or other similar transactions (each a SPAC Transaction). If the Fund purchases shares of a SPAC in an IPO, it will generally pay a sales commission, which may be significant. The shares of a SPAC are often issued in “units” that include one share of common stock and one right or warrant (or partial right or warrant) conveying the right to purchase additional shares or partial shares. In some cases, the rights and warrants may be separated from the common stock at the election of the holder, after which they may become freely tradeable. After going public and until a SPAC Transaction is completed, a SPAC generally invests the proceeds of its IPO (less a portion retained to cover expenses) in U.S. Government securities, money market securities and/or cash. To the extent the SPAC is invested in cash or similar securities, this may impact a Fund’s ability to meet its investment objective(s). If a SPAC does not complete a SPAC Transaction within a specified period of time after going public, the SPAC is typically dissolved, at which point the invested funds are returned to the SPAC’s
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shareholders (less certain permitted expenses) and any rights or warrants issued by the SPAC expire worthless. In some cases, the Fund will forfeit its right to receive additional warrants even if a SPAC Transaction occurs if the Fund holding the warrant or other right does not elect to participate in the SPAC Transaction.
Because SPACs often do not have an operating history or ongoing business other than seeking a SPAC Transaction, the value of their securities may be particularly dependent on the quality of their management and on the ability of the SPAC’s management to identify and complete a profitable SPAC Transaction. Some SPACs may pursue SPAC Transactions only within certain industries or regions, which may increase the volatility of an investment in them. In addition, the securities issued by a SPAC may become illiquid and/or may be subject to restrictions on resale.
Other risks of investing in SPACs include that a significant portion of the monies raised by the SPAC may be expended during the search for a target SPAC Transaction; an attractive SPAC Transaction may not be identified at all (or any requisite approvals may not be obtained) and the SPAC may be required to return any remaining monies to shareholders; a SPAC Transaction, once identified or effected, may prove unsuccessful and an investment in the SPAC may lose value; the warrants or other rights with respect to the SPAC held by a Fund may expire worthless or may be repurchased or retired by the SPAC at an unfavorable price; and an investment in a SPAC may be diluted by additional later offerings of interests in the SPAC or by other investors exercising existing rights to purchase shares of the SPAC.
Special Situations Risk. Securities of companies that are involved in an initial public offering or a major corporate event, such as a business consolidation or restructuring, may be exposed to heightened risk because of the high degree of uncertainty that can be associated with such events. Securities issued in initial public offerings often are issued by companies that are in the early stages of development, have a history of little or no revenues and may operate at a loss following the offering. It is possible that there will be no active trading market for the securities after the offering, and that the market price of the securities may be subject to significant and unpredictable fluctuations. Initial public offerings are subject to many of the same risks as investing in companies with smaller market capitalizations. To the extent the Fund determines to invest in initial public offerings, it may not be able to invest to the extent desired, because, for example, only a small portion (if any) of the securities being offered in an initial public offering are available to the Fund. The investment performance of the Fund during periods when it is unable to invest significantly or at all in initial public offerings may be lower than during periods when the Fund is able to do so. Securities purchased in initial public offerings which are sold within 12 months after purchase may result in increased short-term capital gains, which will be taxable to the Fund’s shareholders as ordinary income. Certain “special situation” investments are investments in securities or other instruments that may be classified as illiquid or lacking a readily ascertainable fair value. Certain special situation investments prevent ownership interests therein from being withdrawn until the special situation investment, or a portion thereof, is realized or deemed realized, which may negatively impact Fund performance. Investing in special situations may have a magnified effect on the performance of funds with small amounts of assets.
Stripped Securities Risk. Stripped securities are the separate income or principal components of debt securities. These securities are particularly sensitive to changes in interest rates, and therefore subject to greater fluctuations in price than typical interest bearing debt securities. For example, stripped mortgage-backed securities have greater interest rate risk than mortgage-backed securities with like maturities, and stripped treasury securities have greater interest rate risk (the risk of losses attributable to changes in interest rates) than traditional government securities with identical credit ratings.
Terrorism, War, Natural Disaster and Epidemic Risk. Terrorism, war, military confrontations and actions, other conflicts, and related geopolitical events (and their aftermath) have led, and in the future may lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on U.S. and world economies and markets generally. Likewise, natural and environmental disasters, such as, for example, earthquakes, fires, floods, hurricanes, tsunamis and weather-related phenomena generally, as well as widespread disease and virus outbreaks, epidemics and pandemics, have been and can be highly disruptive to economies and markets, adversely affecting individual companies, sectors, industries, markets, currencies, interest and inflation rates, credit ratings, investor sentiment, and other factors affecting the value of the Fund’s investments. Given the increasing interdependence among global economies and markets, conditions in one country, market, or region are increasingly likely to adversely affect markets, issuers, and/or foreign exchange rates in other countries, including the U.S. These disruptions could prevent the Fund from executing advantageous investment decisions in a timely manner and negatively impact the Fund’s ability to achieve its investment objectives. Any such event(s) could have a significant adverse impact on the value and risk profile of the Fund.
U.S. Government Obligations Risk. While U.S. Treasury obligations are backed by the “full faith and credit” of the U.S. Government, such securities are nonetheless subject to credit risk (i.e., the risk that the U.S. Government may be, or may be perceived to be, unable or unwilling to honor its financial obligations, such as making payments). Securities issued or guaranteed by federal agencies or authorities and U.S. Government-sponsored instrumentalities or enterprises may or may not be backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. For example, securities issued by the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, the Federal National Mortgage Association and the Federal Home Loan Banks are neither insured nor guaranteed
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by the U.S. Government. These securities may be supported by the ability to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or only by the credit of the issuing agency, authority, instrumentality or enterprise and, as a result, are subject to greater credit risk than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury.
Valuation Risk. The sales price the Fund (or an underlying fund or other investment vehicle) could receive, or actually receives, for any particular investment may differ from the Fund’s (or an underlying fund’s or other investment vehicle’s) valuation of the investment, particularly for securities that trade in thin or volatile markets, debt securities sold in amounts less than institutional-sized lots (typically referred to as odd lots) or securities that are valued using a fair value methodology that produces an estimate of the fair value of the security/instrument. Investors who purchase or redeem Fund shares on days when the Fund is holding securities or other instruments (or holding shares of underlying funds or other investment vehicles that have fair-valued securities or other instruments in their portfolios) may receive fewer or more shares or lower or higher redemption proceeds than they would have received if the Fund (or underlying fund or other investment vehicle) had not fair-valued the security or instrument or had used a different valuation methodology. The value of foreign securities, certain fixed-income securities and currencies, as applicable, may be materially affected by events after the close of the market on which they are valued, but before the Fund determines its NAV.
Warrants and Rights Risk. Warrants are securities giving the holder the right, but not the obligation, to buy the stock of an issuer at a given price (generally higher than the value of the stock at the time of issuance) during a specified period or perpetually. Warrants may be acquired separately or in connection with the acquisition of securities. Warrants do not carry with them the right to dividends or voting rights and they do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuer. Warrants are subject to the risks associated with the security underlying the warrant, including market risk. Warrants may expire unexercised and subject the Fund to liquidity risk (the risk that it may not be possible for the Fund to liquidate the instrument at an advantageous time or price), which may result in Fund losses. Rights are available to existing shareholders of an issuer to enable them to maintain proportionate ownership in the issuer by being able to buy newly issued shares. Rights allow shareholders to buy the shares below the current market price. Rights are typically short-term instruments that are valued separately and trade in the secondary market during a subscription (or offering) period. Holders can exercise the rights and purchase the stock, sell the rights or let them expire. Their value, and their risk of investment loss, is a function of that of the underlying security.
Zero-Coupon Bonds Risk. Zero-coupon bonds are bonds that do not pay interest in cash on a current basis, but instead accrue interest over the life of the bond. As a result, these securities are issued at a discount and their values may fluctuate more than the values of similar securities that pay interest periodically. Although these securities pay no interest to holders prior to maturity, interest accrued on these securities is reported as income to the Fund and affects the amounts distributed to its stockholders, which may cause the Fund to sell investments to obtain cash to make income distributions to shareholders, including at times when it may not be advantageous to do so.
Certain of the risks described above in this SAI may also apply, directly or indirectly, to the Investment Manager and any investment subadviser and their affiliates, which may negatively impact their respective abilities to provide services to the Funds, potentially resulting in losses to the Fund or other consequences.
Lending of Portfolio Securities
To generate additional income, the Fund may lend up to 33%, or such lower percentage specified by the Fund or Investment Manager, of the value of its total assets (including securities out on loan) to broker-dealers, banks or other institutional borrowers of securities subject to any applicable requirements of a national securities exchange or of a governmental regulatory body. A Fund may loan securities to approved borrowers pursuant to borrower agreements in exchange for collateral at least equal in value to the loaned securities, marked to market daily. Collateral may consist of cash, securities issued by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities (collectively, “U.S. Government securities”) or such other collateral as may be approved by the Board. For loans secured by cash, the Fund retains the interest earned on cash collateral, but the Fund is required to pay the borrower a rebate for the use of the cash collateral. For loans secured by U.S. Government securities, the borrower pays a borrower fee to the Lending Agent on behalf of the Fund.
If the market value of the loaned securities goes up, the Fund will require additional collateral from the borrower. If the market value of the loaned securities goes down, the borrower may request that some collateral be returned. During the existence of the loan, the Fund will receive from the borrower amounts equivalent to any dividends, interest or other distributions on the loaned securities, as well as interest on such amounts.
Loans are subject to termination by the Fund or a borrower at any time. The Fund may choose to terminate a loan in order to vote in a proxy solicitation if the Fund has knowledge of a material event to be voted on that would affect the Fund’s investment in the loaned security.
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Securities lending involves counterparty risk, including the risk that a borrower may not provide sufficient or any collateral when required or may not return the loaned securities, timely or at all. Counterparty risk also includes a potential loss of rights in the collateral if the borrower or the Lending Agent defaults or fails financially. This risk is increased if the Fund’s loans are concentrated with a single borrower or limited number of borrowers. There are no limits on the number of borrowers the Fund may use and the Fund may lend securities to only one or a small group of borrowers. Funds participating in securities lending also bear the risk of loss in connection with investments of cash collateral received from the borrowers. Cash collateral may only be invested in short-term, highly liquid obligations, and in accordance with investment guidelines contained in the Securities Lending Agreement and approved by the Board. To the extent that the value or return of a Fund’s investments of the cash collateral declines below the amount owed to a borrower, the Fund may incur losses that exceed the amount it earned on lending the security. The Lending Agent will indemnify the fund from losses resulting from a borrower’s failure to return a loaned security when due, but such indemnification does not extend to losses associated with declines in the value of cash collateral investments. The Investment Manager is not responsible for any loss incurred by the Fund in connection with the securities lending program.
The Fund currently does not participate in the securities lending program, but the Board may determine to renew participation in the future.
Interfund Lending
Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the SEC (the Lending Order), the Fund entered into a master interfund lending agreement (the Interfund Program) with certain other funds advised by the Investment Manager or its affiliates. For purposes of this subsection only, the term “Participating Fund” includes the Fund and any other fund advised by the Investment Manager that is subject to the Lending Order. Under the Interfund Program, each Participating Fund may lend money directly to and, other than closed-end funds (including the Fund) and money market funds, borrow money directly from other Participating Funds for temporary purposes through the Interfund Program (each an Interfund Loan). Participating Funds issuing Interfund Loans are referred to below as “Borrowing Funds,” and Participating Funds acquiring Interfund Loans are referred to below as “Lending Funds.” All Interfund Loans would consist only of uninvested cash reserves that the Lending Fund otherwise could invest directly or indirectly in short-term repurchase agreements or other short-term instruments.
If a Participating Fund has outstanding bank borrowings, any Interfund Loan to the Participating Fund will: (i) be at an interest rate equal to or lower than the interest rate of any outstanding bank loan; (ii) be secured at least on an equal priority basis with at least an equivalent percentage of collateral to loan value as any outstanding bank loan that requires collateral; (iii) have a maturity no longer than any outstanding bank loan (and in any event not longer than seven days); and (iv) provide that, if an event of default occurs under any agreement evidencing an outstanding bank loan to the Participating Fund, that event of default will automatically (without need for action or notice by the Lending Fund) constitute an immediate event of default under the interfund lending agreement, entitling the Lending Fund to call the Interfund Loan (and exercise all rights with respect to any collateral), and that such call will be made if the lending bank exercises its right to call its loan under its agreement with the Borrowing Fund.
A Participating Fund may make an unsecured borrowing under the Interfund Program if its outstanding borrowings from all sources immediately after the borrowing under the Interfund Program are equal to or less than 10% of its total assets, provided that if the Participating Fund has a secured loan outstanding from any other lender, including but not limited to another Participating Fund, the Participating Fund’s borrowing under the Interfund Program will be secured on at least an equal priority basis with at least an equivalent percentage of collateral to loan value as any outstanding loan that requires collateral. If a Participating Fund’s total outstanding borrowings immediately after borrowing under the Interfund Program exceed 10% of its total assets, the Participating Fund may borrow under the Interfund Program on a secured basis only. A Participating Fund may not borrow under the Interfund Program or from any other source if its total outstanding borrowings immediately after the borrowing would be more than 33 1/3% of its total assets or any lower threshold provided for by a Participating Fund’s fundamental restriction or non-fundamental policy.
No Participating Fund may lend to another Participating Fund through the Interfund Program if the loan would cause the Lending Fund’s aggregate outstanding loans under the Interfund Program to exceed 15% of its current net assets at the time of the loan. A Participating Fund’s Interfund Loans to any one Participating Fund may not exceed 5% of the Lending Fund’s net assets at the time of the loan. The duration of Interfund Loans will be limited to the time required to receive payment for securities sold, but in no event more than seven days. Interfund Loans effected within seven days of each other will be treated as separate loan transactions for purposes of this limitation. Each Interfund Loan may be called on one business day’s notice by a Lending Fund and may be repaid on any day by a Borrowing Fund.
The limitations described above and the other conditions of the Lending Order are designed to minimize the risks associated with Interfund Lending for both the Lending Fund and the Borrowing Fund. However, no borrowing or lending activity is without risk. When a Participating Fund borrows money from another Participating Fund under the Interfund Program, there is a
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risk that the Interfund Loan could be called on one day’s notice, in which case the Borrowing Fund may have to borrow from a bank at higher rates if an Interfund Loan is not available from another Participating Fund. Interfund Loans are subject to the risk that the Borrowing Fund could be unable to repay the loan when due, and a delay in repayment to a Lending Fund could result in a lost opportunity or additional lending costs for the Lending Fund. No Participating Fund may borrow more than the amount permitted by its investment restrictions. Because the Investment Manager provides investment management services to both the Lending Fund and the Borrowing Fund, the Investment Manager may have a potential conflict of interest in determining that an Interfund Loan is comparable in credit quality to other high quality money market instruments. The Participating Fund has adopted policies and procedures that are designed to manage potential conflicts of interest, but the administration of the Interfund Program may be subject to such conflicts.
As noted above, the Fund may only participate in the Interfund Program as a Lending Fund.
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INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AND OTHER SERVICES
The Investment Manager
Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, located at 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210, is the investment manager of the Fund as well as for other funds in the Columbia Funds Complex. The Investment Manager is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ameriprise Financial, which is located at 1099 Ameriprise Financial Center, Minneapolis, MN 55474. Ameriprise Financial is a holding company, which primarily conducts business through its subsidiaries to provide financial planning, products and services that are designed to be utilized as solutions for clients’ cash and liquidity, asset accumulation, income, protection and estate and wealth transfer needs.
The Investment Manager and its investment advisory affiliates (Participating Affiliates) around the world may coordinate in providing services to their clients. Such coordination may include functional leadership of the business (the “global” business). From time to time, the Investment Manager (or any affiliated investment subadviser to the Funds, as the case may be) may engage its Participating Affiliates to provide a variety of services such as investment research, investment monitoring, trading, and discretionary investment management (including portfolio management) to certain accounts managed by the Investment Manager, including the Fund. These Participating Affiliates will provide services to the Fund and other accounts of the Investment Manager (or any affiliated investment subadviser to the Funds, as the case may be) either pursuant to subadvisory agreements, delegation agreements, personnel-sharing agreements or similar inter-company or other arrangements or relationships and the Fund will pay no additional fees and expenses as a result of any such arrangements or relationships. These Participating Affiliates, like the Investment Manager, are direct or indirect subsidiaries of Ameriprise Financial and are registered with the appropriate respective regulators in their home jurisdictions and, where required, the SEC and the CFTC in the United States.
Pursuant to some of these arrangements or relationships, certain personnel of these Participating Affiliates serve as “associated persons” or officers of the Investment Manager and, in this capacity, subject to the oversight and supervision of the Investment Manager and consistent with the investment objectives, policies and limitations set forth in the Fund's prospectus and this SAI, and with the Investment Manager’s and the Fund's compliance policies and procedures, provide services to the Fund.
As a manager of global equities, fixed income and real estate assets, Columbia Management seeks to provide its investment professionals, including Fund portfolio managers, with access to various internal tools and resources that they may use to enhance or supplement their investment processes, including access to Columbia Management’s proprietary Fundamental Research capability, Quantitative Equity Research capability, and Responsible Investing Research capability, each as further described below.
Columbia Management’s Equity and Fixed Income Fundamental Research Capability
Columbia Management and its advisory affiliates maintain an internal central research function for both equity and fixed income. Investment analysts who are responsible for central research provide their views on specific issuers and securities internally for general consumption by other analysts and portfolio managers, as well as to investment personnel of certain of our advisory affiliates. Fund portfolio managers may, by way of example, seek to leverage the central fundamental research for sector expertise. Equity analysts that are tied to specific portfolio management teams or strategies generally do not provide their research internally in this manner but may share their investment views with investment personnel (including personnel at certain of our advisory affiliates) via email or other form of communication. In addition, certain of our research analysts have portfolio management responsibilities that may create potential conflicts of interest with respect to the allocation of investment research. We have adopted policies and related controls to manage these conflicts.
Columbia Management’s Quantitative Equity Research Capability
Columbia Management’s quantitative research team applies fundamental investment concepts within a quantitative and systematic framework to create robust sector- and industry-specific multi-factor stock selection models across three broad categories, including valuation (such as cash flow yield), catalyst (such as price momentum) and quality (such as earnings quality) models, to rank the securities within a sector/industry. A company’s rating is scaled from 1 (most attractive) to 5 (least attractive) based on the relative ranking of its overall score from its multi-factor model. The ranking results are another available resource internally for general consumption by other analysts and Fund portfolio managers, as well as to investment personnel of certain of our advisory affiliates. Fund portfolio managers may, by way of example, seek to leverage this information for the Funds they manage.
Columbia Management’s Responsible Investing Research Capability
Columbia Management maintains an internal central Responsible Investment (RI) research function. Columbia Management became a signatory to the United Nations-supported Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) in October 2014. The PRI initiative is based on six principles that address the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into
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investment decision-making and stewardship practices. As a PRI signatory, Columbia Management has made a commitment by investing in the resources, enhanced analytics and data to supplement its standard fundamental and quantitative tools to help its investment teams expand their investment mosaic to potentially consider and integrate ESG factors that seek to identify material associated risks and opportunities that may bear on the long-term value creation and sustainability of a company. While Columbia Management follows the PRI Principles, becoming a PRI signatory does not require the application of specific RI factors in Columbia Management’s investment process, and Columbia Management may take actions inconsistent with the PRI if, in its judgment, it is in the best interests of its clients to do so.
While Columbia Management believes that evaluating RI research and analysis enables portfolio managers to make better-informed investment decisions, each portfolio management team within Columbia Management makes its own investment decisions and certain teams may place more, less or no emphasis on ESG factors in any given investment decision. Columbia Management believes in being an active and responsible steward of the capital entrusted to it by our clients. Consistent with this philosophy and the duty to act in the best interests of our clients, our publicly available Stewardship Principles form an important part of our investment framework and guidelines. These Principles outline the governance of Columbia Management’s stewardship activities as they apply across asset classes, as well as specifying Columbia Management’s approach to monitoring the companies in which it invests and the role within stewardship of engagement and proxy voting.
Services Provided
The Fund has entered into a Management Agreement with the Investment Manager. Under the Management Agreement, the Investment Manager has contracted to furnish the Fund with investment research and advice and all of the services necessary for, or appropriate to, the business and effective operation of the Fund that are not (a) provided by employees or other agents engaged by the Fund or (b) required to be provided by any person pursuant to any other agreement or arrangement with the Fund. Under the Management Agreement, any liability of the Investment Manager to the Fund and/or its stockholders is limited to situations involving the Investment Manager’s own willful misfeasance, bad faith, negligence in the performance of its duties or reckless disregard of its obligations and duties.
The Management Agreement may be terminated at any time on 60 days’ written notice by the Investment Manager or by the Board or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund. The Management Agreement will automatically terminate upon any assignment thereof, will continue in effect for two years from its initial effective date and thereafter will continue from year to year only so long as such continuance is approved at least annually (i) by the Board or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund and (ii) by vote of a majority of the Directors who are not interested persons (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) of the Investment Manager or the Fund.
The Investment Manager pays all compensation of the Directors and officers of the Fund who are employees of the Investment Manager or its affiliates, except for the Chief Compliance Officer, a portion of whose salary is paid by the Columbia Funds. Except to the extent expressly assumed by the Investment Manager and except to the extent required by law to be paid or reimbursed by the Investment Manager, the Investment Manager does not have a duty to pay any Fund operating expenses incurred in the organization and operation of a Fund, including, but not limited to, auditing, legal, custodial, investor servicing and shareholder reporting expenses. The Fund pays the cost of printing and mailing Fund prospectuses to stockholders.
The Investment Manager, at its own expense, provides office space, facilities and supplies, equipment and personnel for the performance of its functions under the Fund’s Management Agreement.
Management Agreement Fee Rate
The Fund pays the Investment Manager an annual fee for its management services, as set forth in the Management Agreement. Effective November 15, 2024, the Fund will pay the Investment Manager a fee rate according to the fee breakpoints noted in the table below based on the Fund’s Managed Assets. “Managed Assets” means the net asset value of the Fund’s outstanding Common Stock plus the liquidation preference of any issued and outstanding preferred stock of the Fund and the principal amount of any borrowings used for leverage. Previously, the management services fee was an annual fee equal to 1.06% of all of the Fund’s daily Managed Assets (with no reductions as assets increase). To date, the Fund has not issued preferred stock.
Management Agreement Fee Schedule
| |
Asset (in Millions) |
Annual rate at each asset level |
| Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
$0 - $500 |
1.060% |
| ˃$500 - $1,000 |
1.055% | |
| ˃$1,000 - $3,000 |
1.050% | |
| ˃$3,000 - $4,000 |
1.010% | |
| ˃$4,000 - $6,000 |
0.960% |
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| |
Asset (in Millions) |
Annual rate at each asset level |
| |
˃$6,000 - $12,000 |
0.910% |
| |
˃$12,000 - $20,000 |
0.900% |
| |
˃$20,000 - $24,000 |
0.890% |
| |
˃$24,000 - $50,000 |
0.880% |
| |
˃$50,000 |
0.850% |
Under the Management Agreement, the Fund also pays taxes, brokerage commissions and nonadvisory expenses, which include custodian fees and charges; fidelity bond premiums; certain legal fees; registration fees for shares; consultants’ fees; compensation of Board members, officers and employees not employed by the Investment Manager or its affiliates; corporate filing fees; organizational expenses; expenses incurred in connection with lending securities; and expenses properly payable by a Fund, approved by the Board.
Management Services Fees Paid. The table below shows the total management services fees paid by the Fund under the Management Agreement for the last three fiscal periods (net of management services fee waivers, if any).
| |
Management Services Fees Paid | ||
| Fund |
|
|
|
| For Funds with fiscal period ending December 31 |
2023 |
2022 |
2021 |
| Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
$4,580,664 |
$4,704,400 |
$5,496,087 |
Portfolio Managers. The following table provides information about the portfolio managers of the Fund. For the purposes of the table below, each series or portfolio of a registered investment company may be treated as a separate registered investment company. In addition to the other account information disclosed in the table, portfolio managers may have accounts holding Ameriprise Financial stock options granted to them as part of their compensation.
| |
|
Other Accounts Managed (excluding the Fund) |
| ||
| Fund |
Portfolio Manager |
Number and type of account* |
Approximate Total Net Assets (excluding the fund) |
Performance Based Accounts** |
Ownership of Fund Shares |
| Information is as of December 31, 2023, unless otherwise noted | |||||
| Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund |
Paul Wick |
4 RICs 3 PIVs 8 other accounts |
$13.82 billion $1.94 billion $1.73 billion |
2 PIVs -$998.01M 1 other account – $182.78M |
None |
| Braj Agrawal |
15 other accounts |
$1.45 million |
None |
None | |
| Christopher Boova |
2 RICs 6 other accounts |
$2.28 billion $6.77 million |
None |
None | |
| Jeetil Patel |
1 RIC 10 other accounts |
$11.50 billion $6.54 million |
None |
None | |
| Vimal Patel |
3 RICs 8 other accounts |
$13.79 billion $6.36 million |
None |
None | |
| Shekhar Pramanick |
4 RICs 6 other accounts |
$13.82 billion $14.05 million |
None |
None | |
*
RIC refers to a Registered Investment Company; PIV refers to a Pooled Investment Vehicle.
**
Number and type of accounts for which the advisory fee paid is based in part or wholly on performance and the aggregate net assets in those accounts.
Potential Conflicts of Interest
Columbia Management: Like other investment professionals with multiple clients, a Fund’s portfolio manager(s) may face certain potential conflicts of interest in connection with managing both the Fund and other accounts at the same time. The Investment Manager and the Funds have adopted compliance policies and procedures that attempt to address certain of the potential conflicts that portfolio managers face in this regard. Certain of these conflicts of interest are summarized below.
The management of funds or other accounts with different advisory fee rates and/or fee structures, including accounts, such as the Investment Manager’s hedge funds, that pay advisory fees based on account performance (performance fee accounts), may raise potential conflicts of interest for a portfolio manager by creating an incentive to favor accounts that pay higher fees, including performance fee accounts, such that the portfolio manager may have an incentive to allocate attractive investments disproportionately to performance fee accounts.
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Similar conflicts of interest also may arise when a portfolio manager has personal investments in other accounts that may create an incentive to favor those accounts. When the Investment Manager determines it necessary or appropriate in order to ensure compliance with restrictions on joint transactions under the 1940 Act, a Fund may not be able to invest in privately-placed securities in which other accounts advised by the Investment Manager using a similar style, including performance fee accounts, are able to invest, even when the Investment Manager believes such securities would otherwise represent attractive investment opportunities. As a general matter and subject to the Investment Manager’s Code of Ethics and certain limited exceptions, including for investments in the Investment Manager’s hedge funds, the Investment Manager’s investment professionals do not have the opportunity to invest in client accounts, other than the Funds.
A portfolio manager who is responsible for managing multiple funds and/or accounts may devote unequal time and attention to the management of those Funds and/or accounts. The effects of this potential conflict may be more pronounced where Funds and/or accounts managed by a particular portfolio manager have different investment strategies.
A portfolio manager may be able to select or influence the selection of the broker/dealers that are used to execute securities transactions for the Funds. A portfolio manager’s decision as to the selection of broker/dealers could produce disproportionate costs and benefits among the Funds and the other accounts the portfolio manager manages.
A potential conflict of interest may arise when a portfolio manager buys or sells the same securities for a Fund and other accounts. On occasions when a portfolio manager considers the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interests of a Fund as well as other accounts, the Investment Manager’s trading desk may, to the extent consistent with applicable laws and regulations, aggregate the securities to be sold or bought in order to obtain the best execution and lower brokerage commissions, if any. Aggregation of trades may create the potential for unfairness to a Fund or another account if a portfolio manager favors one account over another in allocating the securities bought or sold. The Investment Manager and its Participating Affiliates may coordinate their trading operations for certain types of securities and transactions pursuant to personnel-sharing agreements or similar intercompany arrangements. However, typically the Investment Manager does not coordinate trading activities with a Participating Affiliate with respect to accounts of that Participating Affiliate unless such Participating Affiliate is also providing trading services for accounts managed by the Investment Manager. Similarly, a Participating Affiliate typically does not coordinate trading activities with the Investment Manager with respect to accounts of the Investment Manager unless the Investment Manager is also providing trading services for accounts managed by such Participating Affiliate. As a result, it is possible that the Investment Manager and its Participating Affiliates may trade in the same instruments at the same time, in the same or opposite direction or in different sequence, which could negatively impact the prices paid by the Fund on such instruments. Additionally, in circumstances where trading services are being provided on a coordinated basis for the Investment Manager’s accounts (including the Funds) and the accounts of one or more Participating Affiliates in accordance with applicable law, it is possible that the allocation opportunities available to the Funds may be decreased, especially for less actively traded securities, or orders may take longer to execute, which may negatively impact Fund performance.
“Cross trades,” in which a portfolio manager sells a particular security held by a Fund to another account (potentially saving transaction costs for both accounts), could involve a potential conflict of interest if, for example, a portfolio manager is permitted to sell a security from one account to another account at a higher price than an independent third party would pay. The Investment Manager and the Funds have adopted compliance procedures that provide that any transactions between a Fund and another account managed by the Investment Manager are to be made at a current market price, consistent with applicable laws and regulations.
Another potential conflict of interest may arise based on the different investment objectives and strategies of a Fund and other accounts managed by its portfolio manager(s). Depending on another account’s objectives and other factors, a portfolio manager may give advice to and make decisions for a Fund that may differ from advice given, or the timing or nature of decisions made, with respect to another account. A portfolio manager’s investment decisions are the product of many factors in addition to basic suitability for the particular account involved. Thus, a portfolio manager may buy or sell a particular security for certain accounts, and not for a Fund, even though it could have been bought or sold for the Fund at the same time. A portfolio manager also may buy a particular security for one or more accounts when one or more other accounts are selling the security (including short sales). There may be circumstances when a portfolio manager’s purchases or sales of portfolio securities for one or more accounts may have an adverse effect on other accounts, including the Funds.
To the extent a Fund invests in underlying funds, a portfolio manager will be subject to additional potential conflicts of interest. Because of the structure of funds-of-funds, the potential conflicts of interest for the portfolio managers may be different than the potential conflicts of interest for portfolio managers who manage other Funds. The Investment Manager and its affiliates may receive higher compensation as a result of allocations to underlying funds with higher fees.
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A Fund’s portfolio manager(s) also may have other potential conflicts of interest in managing the Fund, and the description above is not a complete description of every conflict that could exist in managing the Fund and other accounts. Many of the potential conflicts of interest to which the Investment Manager’s portfolio managers are subject are essentially the same or similar to the potential conflicts of interest related to the investment management activities of the Investment Manager and its affiliates.
In addition, a portfolio manager’s responsibilities may include working as a securities analyst. This dual role may give rise to conflicts with respect to making investment decisions for accounts that he/she manages versus communicating his/her analyses to other portfolio managers concerning securities that he/she follows as an analyst.
Structure of Compensation
Columbia Management Fund Portfolio Managers Other Than Columbia Seligman Technology Team Members: Portfolio manager direct compensation is typically comprised of a base salary, and an annual incentive award that is paid either in the form of a cash bonus if the size of the award is under a specified threshold, or, if the size of the award is over a specified threshold, the award is paid in a combination of a cash bonus, an equity incentive award, and deferred compensation. Equity incentive awards are made in the form of Ameriprise Financial restricted stock or, for more senior employees, both Ameriprise Financial restricted stock and stock options. The investment return credited on deferred compensation is based on the performance of specified Columbia Funds, in most cases including the Columbia Funds the portfolio manager manages.
Base salary is typically determined based on market data relevant to the employee’s position, as well as other factors including internal equity. Base salaries are reviewed annually, and increases are typically given as promotional increases, internal equity adjustments, or market adjustments.
Under the Columbia Management annual incentive plan for investment professionals, awards are discretionary, and the amount of incentive awards for investment team members is variable based on (1) an evaluation of the investment performance of the investment team of which the investment professional is a member, reflecting the performance (and client experience) of the funds or accounts the investment professional manages and, if applicable, reflecting the individual’s work as an investment research analyst, (2) the results of a peer and/or management review of the individual, taking into account attributes such as team participation, investment process followed, communications, and leadership, and (3) the amount of aggregate funding of the plan determined by senior management of Columbia Threadneedle Investments and Ameriprise Financial, which takes into account Columbia Threadneedle Investments revenues and profitability, as well as Ameriprise Financial profitability, historical plan funding levels and other factors. Columbia Threadneedle Investments revenues and profitability are largely determined by assets under management. In determining the allocation of incentive compensation to investment teams, the amount of assets and related revenues managed by the team is also considered, alongside investment performance. Individual awards are subject to a comprehensive risk adjustment review process to ensure proper reflection in remuneration of adherence to our controls and Code of Conduct.
Investment performance for a fund or other account is measured using a scorecard that compares account performance against benchmarks, custom indexes and/or peer groups. Account performance may also be compared to unaffiliated passively managed ETFs, taking into consideration the management fees of comparable passively managed ETFs, when available and as determined by the Investment Manager. Consideration is given to relative performance over the one-, three- and five-year periods, with the largest weighting on the three-year comparison. For individuals and teams that manage multiple strategies and accounts, relative asset size is a key determinant in calculating the aggregate score, with weighting typically proportionate to actual assets. For investment leaders who have group management responsibilities, another factor in their evaluation is an assessment of the group’s overall investment performance. Exceptions to this general approach to bonuses exist for certain teams and individuals.
Equity incentive awards are designed to align participants’ interests with those of the shareholders of Ameriprise Financial. Equity incentive awards vest over multiple years, so they help retain employees.
Deferred compensation awards are designed to align participants’ interests with the investors in the Columbia Funds and other accounts they manage. The value of the deferral account is based on the performance of Columbia Funds. Employees have the option of selecting from various Columbia Funds for their deferral account, however portfolio managers must (other than by strict exception) allocate a minimum of 25% of their incentive awarded through the deferral program to the Columbia Fund(s) they manage. Deferrals vest over multiple years, so they help retain employees.
For all employees the benefit programs generally are the same and are competitive within the financial services industry. Employees participate in a wide variety of plans, including options in Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Care and Dependent Spending Accounts, Life Insurance, Long Term Disability Insurance, 401(k), and a cash balance pension plan.
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Columbia Management - Columbia Seligman Technology Team Members: Portfolio manager compensation is typically comprised of (i) a base salary and (ii) an annual cash bonus. The annual cash bonus, and in most instances the base salary, are paid from a team compensation pool that is based on fees and performance of the accounts managed by the portfolio management team, which might include mutual funds, wrap accounts, institutional portfolios and hedge funds.
The percentage of management fees on mutual funds that fund the bonus pool is based on the short term (typically one-year) and long-term (typically three-year and five-year) performance of those accounts in relation to the relevant peer group universe.
The pool is also funded by a percentage of the management fees on long-only institutional separate accounts, that percentage being based on the source of the account in question, and by a fixed percentage of management fees on hedge funds and separately managed accounts that follow a hedge fund mandate.
The percentage of performance fees on hedge funds and separately managed accounts that follow a hedge fund mandate that fund the bonus pool is based on the absolute level of each hedge fund’s current year investment return.
For all employees the benefit programs generally are the same and are competitive within the financial services industry. Employees participate in a wide variety of plans, including options in Medical, Dental, Vision, Health Care and Dependent Spending Accounts, Life Insurance, Long Term Disability Insurance, 401(k), and a cash balance pension plan.
The Administrator
Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC (which is also the Investment Manager) serves as administrator of the Fund.
Other Services Provided
Transfer Agent. Equiniti Trust Company, LLC (formerly known as American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC) serves as the Fund’s transfer agent and registrar. Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, located at 48 Wall Street, Floor 23, New York, NY 10005, performs certain recordkeeping functions for the Fund, maintains the records of stockholder accounts and furnishes related services.
Distributor. ALPS Distributors, Inc., 1290 Broadway, Suite 1000, Denver, CO 80203, serves as the Distributor of the Fund pursuant to a Distribution Agreement.
Custodian. JPMorgan Chase, N.A., serves as custodian for the Fund’s portfolio securities and is located at 1 Chase Manhattan Plaza, New York, NY 10005. It also maintains, under the general supervision of the Investment Manager, the accounting records and determines the net asset value for the Fund.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
PwC, which is located at 45 South Seventh Street, Suite 3400, Minneapolis, MN 55402, is the Fund's independent registered public accounting firm. The financial statements contained in the Fund’s annual report were audited by PwC. The Board has selected PwC as the independent registered public accounting firm to audit the Fund's books and review its tax returns for its fiscal year.
The Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm and the audited financial statements included in the annual report to shareholders of the Fund incorporated by reference into the Fund's prospectus and this SAI have been so incorporated in reliance upon the report of the independent registered public accounting firm, given on its authority as an expert in auditing and accounting.
Counsel
Ropes & Gray LLP, located at Prudential Tower, 800 Boylston St., Boston, MA 02199, serves as legal counsel to the Fund. Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP, located at 1177 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, serves as counsel to the Independent Directors of the Fund.
Other Roles and Relationships of Ameriprise Financial and Its Affiliates —
Certain Conflicts of Interest
Certain Conflicts of Interest
As described above in the Investment Management and Other Services section of this SAI, and in the Management of the Fund section of the Fund's prospectus, the Investment Manager, an affiliate of Ameriprise Financial, receives compensation from the Fund for the various services it provides to the Fund. Additional information as to the specific terms regarding such compensation is set forth in these affiliated service providers’ contracts with the Fund, each of which typically is included as an exhibit to Part C of the Fund's registration statement.
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In many instances, the compensation paid to the Investment Manager and other Ameriprise Financial affiliates for the services they provide to the Fund is based, in some manner, on the size of the Fund's assets under management. As the size of the Fund's assets under management grows, so does the amount of compensation paid to the Investment Manager and, as the case may be, other Ameriprise Financial affiliates for providing services to the Fund. This relationship between Fund assets and any affiliated service provider compensation may create economic and other conflicts of interests of which Fund investors should be aware. These potential conflicts of interest, as well as additional ones, are discussed in detail below and also are addressed in other disclosure materials, including the Fund's prospectus. Many of these conflicts of interest also are highlighted in account documentation and other disclosure materials of Ameriprise Financial affiliates that make available or offer the Columbia Funds as investments in connection with their respective products and services. In addition, Parts 1A and 2A of the Investment Manager’s Form ADV, which it must file with the SEC as an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, provide information about the Investment Manager’s business, assets under management, affiliates and potential conflicts of interest. Parts 1A and 2A of the Investment Manager’s Form ADV are available online through the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov.
Additional actual or potential conflicts of interest and certain investment activity limitations that could affect the Fund may arise from the financial services activities of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, including, for example, the investment advisory/management services provided for clients and customers other than the Fund. Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates are engaged in a wide range of financial activities beyond the fund-related activities of the Investment Manager, including, among others, broker-dealer (sales and trading), asset management, insurance and other financial activities. The broad range of financial services activities of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates may involve multiple advisory, transactional, lending, financial and other interests in securities and other instruments, and in companies, that may be bought, sold or held by the Fund. The following describes certain actual and potential conflicts of interest that may be presented.
Actual and Potential Conflicts of Interest Related to the Investment Advisory/Management Activities of Ameriprise Financial and its Affiliates in Connection With Other Funds, Advised/Managed Funds and Accounts
The Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial and other affiliates of Ameriprise Financial may advise or manage funds and accounts other than the Fund. In this regard, Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates may provide investment advisory/management and other services to other advised/managed funds and accounts that are similar to those provided to the Fund. The Investment Manager and Ameriprise Financial’s other investment adviser affiliates (including, for example, Columbia Wanger Asset Management, LLC, Columbia Cent CLO Advisers, LLC, Lionstone Partners, LLC, Pyrford International Limited, Thames River Capital LLP and Threadneedle International Limited) will give investment advice to and make investment decisions for advised/managed funds and accounts, including the Funds, as they believe to be in that fund’s and/or account’s best interests, consistent with their fiduciary duties. The Fund and the other advised/managed funds and accounts of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates are separately and potentially divergently managed, and there is no assurance that any investment advice Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates give to other advised/managed funds and accounts will also be given simultaneously or otherwise to the Fund.
A variety of other actual and potential conflicts of interest may arise from the advisory relationships of the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial and other Ameriprise Financial affiliates with other clients and customers. Advice given to the Fund and/or investment decisions made for the Fund by the Investment Manager or other Ameriprise Financial affiliates may differ from, or may conflict with, advice given to and/or investment decisions made by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial and other Ameriprise Financial affiliates for other advised/managed funds and accounts. As a result, the performance of the Fund may differ from the performance of other funds or accounts advised/managed by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial or other Ameriprise Financial affiliates. Similarly, a position taken by Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, including the Investment Manager, on behalf of other funds or accounts may be contrary to a position taken on behalf of the Fund. Moreover, Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, including the Investment Manager, may take a position on behalf of other advised/managed funds and accounts, or for their own proprietary accounts, that is adverse to companies or other issuers in which the Fund are invested. Also, the Investment Manager may take a position on behalf of the Fund that is adverse to that of certain other Funds or accounts advised/managed by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial or other Ameriprise Financial affiliates. For example, the Fund may hold equity securities of a company while certain other Funds or accounts advised/managed by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial or other Ameriprise Financial affiliates may hold debt securities of the same company – the Fund may even own different debt instruments of the same issuer, where the Fund owns subordinated (junior) debt of an issuer and certain other Funds own senior debt of the same issuer, which presents a conflict of interest to the Investment Manager because junior debt is less of a priority than senior debt in terms of repayments. Senior debt is often secured and is more likely to be paid back while subordinated debt is not secured and is more of a risk. If the portfolio company were to experience financial difficulties, it might be in the best interest of the Fund for the company to reorganize while the interests of certain other Funds or accounts advised/managed by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial or other Ameriprise Financial affiliates might be better served by the liquidation of the company. Conflicts are magnified with respect to issuers that become insolvent. It is possible that in connection with an insolvency, bankruptcy, reorganization, or
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similar proceeding, the Fund will be limited (by applicable law, courts or otherwise) in the positions or actions it will be permitted to take due to other interests held or actions or positions taken by certain other Funds or accounts advised/managed by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial or other Ameriprise Financial affiliates. The Fund may invest in offerings of securities the proceeds of which may be used to repay debt obligations held in by certain other Funds or accounts advised/managed by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial or other Ameriprise Financial affiliates. The latter’s interest in having the debt repaid creates a conflict of interest. These types of conflicts of interest could arise as the result of circumstances that cannot be generally foreseen within the broad range of investment advisory/management activities in which Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates engage. The Investment Manager has adopted policies and procedures designed to address these types of conflicts of interest among the Fund and other Funds and accounts advised by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial and other affiliates of Ameriprise Financial.
Investment transactions made on behalf of other funds or accounts advised/managed by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial or other Ameriprise Financial affiliates also may have a negative effect on the value, price or investment strategies of the Fund. For example, this could occur if another advised/managed fund or account implements an investment decision ahead of, or at the same time as, the Fund and causes the Fund to experience less favorable trading results than they otherwise would have experienced based on market liquidity factors. In addition, the other funds and accounts advised/managed by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial and other Ameriprise Financial affiliates, including the other Columbia Funds and accounts of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, may have the same or very similar investment objective and strategies as the Fund. In this situation, the allocation of, and competition for, investment opportunities among the Fund and other funds and/or accounts advised/managed by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial or other Ameriprise Financial affiliates may create conflicts of interest especially where, for example, limited investment availability is involved. The Investment Manager has adopted policies and procedures designed to address the allocation of investment opportunities among the Funds and other funds and accounts advised by the Investment Manager, Ameriprise Financial and other affiliates of Ameriprise Financial. For more information, see Portfolio Managers – Potential Conflicts of Interest.
Sharing of Information among Advised/Managed Accounts
Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, including the Investment Manager, also may possess information that could be material to the management of a Fund and may not be able to, or may determine not to, share that information with the Fund, even though the information might be beneficial to the Fund. This information may include actual knowledge regarding the particular investments and transactions of other advised/managed funds and accounts, as well as proprietary investment, trading and other market research, analytical and technical models, and new investment techniques, strategies and opportunities. Depending on the context, Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates generally will have no obligation to share any such information with the Fund. In general, employees of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, including the portfolio managers of the Investment Manager, will make investment decisions without regard to information otherwise known by other employees of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, and generally will have no obligation to access any such information and may, in some instances, not be able to access such information because of legal and regulatory constraints or the internal policies and procedures of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates. For example, if the Investment Manager or another Ameriprise Financial affiliate, or their respective employees, come into possession of non-public information regarding another advised/managed fund or account, they may be prohibited by legal and regulatory constraints, or internal policies and procedures, from using that information in connection with transactions made on behalf of the Fund. For more information, see Portfolio Managers – Potential Conflicts of Interest.
Soft Dollar Benefits
Certain products and services, commonly referred to as “soft dollar services” (including, to the extent permitted by law, research reports, economic and financial data, financial publications, proxy analysis, computer databases and other research-oriented materials), that the Investment Manager may receive in connection with brokerage services provided to a Fund may have the inadvertent effect of disproportionately benefiting other advised/managed funds or accounts. This could happen because of the relative amount of brokerage services provided to a Fund as compared to other advised/managed funds or accounts, as well as the relative compensation paid by a Fund.
Services Provided to Other Advised/Managed Accounts
Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, including the Investment Manager, also may act as an investment adviser, investment manager, administrator, transfer agent, custodian, trustee, broker-dealer, agent, or in another capacity, for advised/managed funds and accounts other than the Fund, and may receive compensation for acting in such capacity. This compensation that the Investment Manager and other Ameriprise Financial affiliates receive could be greater than the compensation Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates receive for acting in the same or similar capacity for the Fund. In addition, the Investment Manager and other Ameriprise Financial affiliates may receive other benefits, including enhancement of new or existing business relationships. This compensation and/or the benefits that Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates may receive from other advised/managed funds and accounts and other relationships could potentially create incentives to favor other advised/managed
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funds and accounts over the Fund. Trades made by Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates for the Fund may be, but are not required to be, aggregated with trades made for other funds and accounts advised/managed by the Investment Manager and other Ameriprise Financial affiliates. If trades are aggregated among the Fund and those other funds and accounts, the various prices of the securities being traded may be averaged, which could have the potential effect of disadvantaging the Fund as compared to the other funds and accounts with which trades were aggregated.
Proxy Voting
The Investment Manager has adopted proxy voting policies and procedures that are designed to provide that all proxy voting is done in the best economic interests of its clients, including the Fund, without regard to any resulting benefit or detriment to the Investment Manager and/or its affiliates, including Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates. Although the Investment Manager endeavors to make all proxy voting decisions in the interests of client(s) on whose behalf it is voting the proxies, the Investment Manager’s proxy voting decisions with respect to a Fund’s portfolio securities may or may not benefit Ameriprise Financial or other affiliates of the Investment Manager or other advised/managed funds and accounts, and/or clients, of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates. For more information about the Fund's proxy voting policies and procedures, see Investment Management and Other Services – Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures.
Certain Trading Activities
The directors/trustees, officers and employees of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates may buy and sell securities or other investments for their own accounts, and in doing so may take a position that is adverse to the Fund. In order to reduce the possibility that such personal investment activities of the directors/trustees, officers and employees of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates will materially adversely affect the Fund, Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates have adopted policies and procedures, and the Fund, the Board and the Investment Manager have each adopted a Code of Ethics that addresses such personal investment activities. For more information, see Investment Management and Other Services – Codes of Ethics.
Affiliate Transactions
Subject to applicable legal and regulatory requirements, a Fund may enter into transactions in which Ameriprise Financial and/or its affiliates, or companies that are deemed to be affiliates of a Fund because of, among other factors, their or their affiliates’ ownership or control of shares of the Fund, may have an interest that potentially conflicts with the interests of the Fund. For example, an affiliate of Ameriprise Financial may sell securities to a Fund from an offering in which it is an underwriter or that it owns as a dealer, subject to applicable legal and regulatory requirements. Applicable legal and regulatory requirements also may prevent a Fund from engaging in transactions with an affiliate of the Fund, which may include Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, or from participating in an investment opportunity in which an affiliate of a Fund participates.
Certain Investment Limitations
Regulatory and other restrictions may limit a Fund’s investment activities in various ways. For example, certain securities may be subject to ownership limitations due to regulatory limits on investments in certain industries (such as, for example, banking and insurance) and markets (such as emerging or international markets), or certain transactions (such as those involving certain derivatives or other instruments) or mechanisms imposed by certain issuers (such as, among others, poison pills). Certain of these restrictions may impose limits on the aggregate amount of investments that may be made by affiliated investors in the aggregate or in individual issuers. In these circumstances, the Investment Manager may be prevented from acquiring securities for a Fund (that it might otherwise prefer to acquire) if the acquisition would cause the Fund and its affiliated investors to exceed an applicable limit. These types of regulatory and other applicable limits are complex and vary significantly in different contexts including, among others, from country to country, industry to industry and issuer to issuer. The Investment Manager has policies and procedures designed to monitor and interpret these limits. Nonetheless, given the complexity of these limits, the Investment Manager and/or its affiliates may inadvertently breach these limits, and a Fund may therefore be required to sell securities that it might otherwise prefer to hold in order to comply with such limits. In addition, aggregate ownership limitations could cause performance dispersion among funds and accounts managed by the Investment Manager with similar investment objectives and strategies and portfolio management teams, including accounts that seek to track an index. For example, if further purchases in an issuer are restricted due to regulatory or other reasons, a portfolio manager would not be able to acquire securities or other assets of an issuer for a new Fund that may already be held by other funds and accounts with the same/similar investment objectives and strategies that are managed by the same portfolio management team. The Investment Manager may also choose to limit purchases in an issuer to a certain threshold for risk management purposes. If the holdings of the Investment Manager’s affiliates are included in that limitation, a Fund may be more limited in its ability to purchase a particular security or other asset than if the holdings of the Investment Manager’s affiliates had been excluded from the limitation. At certain times, a Fund may be restricted in its investment activities because of relationships that an affiliate of the Fund, which may include Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates, may have with the issuers of securities. This could happen, for example, if a Fund desired to buy a security issued by a company for which Ameriprise Financial or an affiliate serves as underwriter. A Fund may also be limited in certain investments because Ameriprise Financial, a financial holding company, is subject to certain banking regulatory
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requirements which may in some cases apply to the Investment Manager’s investments for the funds and accounts, including the Fund, it manages. Also, Ameriprise Financial issues various securities from time to time, including common stock. With the exception of Funds passively managed to track an unaffiliated index in which an Ameriprise Financial security is included, the Funds do not invest in Ameriprise Financial securities. Therefore, actively managed Funds and passively managed funds that seek to track an affiliated index will not hold any Ameriprise Financial securities even if such securities are included in an index used by the Fund for performance comparison and/or tracking purposes. Accordingly, the performance of such Funds versus their index will likely differ. In any of these scenarios, a Fund’s inability to participate (or participate further) in a particular investment, despite a portfolio manager’s desire to so participate, may negatively impact Fund performance. The internal policies and procedures of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates covering these types of restrictions and addressing similar issues also may at times restrict a Fund’s investment activities.
Actual and Potential Conflicts of Interest Related to Ameriprise Financial and its Affiliates’ Non-Advisory Relationships with Clients and Customers other than the Funds
The financial relationships that Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates may have with companies and other entities in which a Fund may invest can give rise to actual and potential conflicts of interest. Subject to applicable legal and regulatory requirements, a Fund may invest (a) in the securities of Ameriprise Financial and/or its affiliates and/or in companies in which Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates have an equity, debt or other interest, and/or (b) in the securities of companies held by other Columbia Funds. The purchase, holding and sale of such securities by a Fund may enhance the profitability and the business interests of Ameriprise Financial and/or its affiliates and/or other Columbia Funds. There also may be limitations as to the sharing with the Investment Manager of information derived from the non-investment advisory/management activities of Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates because of legal and regulatory constraints and internal policies and procedures (such as information barriers and ethical walls). Because of these limitations, Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates generally will not share information derived from its non-investment advisory/management activities with the Investment Manager.
Actual or Potential Conflicts of Interest Related to Affiliated Indexes
The Investment Manager and its affiliates may develop, own and operate indexes (each, an Affiliated Index) based on investment and trading strategies developed by the Investment Manager and/or its affiliates (Affiliated Index Strategies). Some of the ETFs for which Columbia Management acts as investment adviser (the Affiliated Index ETFs) seek to track the performance of the Affiliated Indexes. The Investment Manager and/or its affiliates may, from time to time, manage other funds or accounts that invest in these Affiliated Index ETFs. In the future, the Investment Manager and/or its affiliates may manage client accounts that track the same Affiliated Indexes used by the Affiliated Index ETFs or which are based on the same, or substantially similar, Affiliated Index Strategies that are used in the operation of the Affiliated Indexes and the Affiliated Index ETFs. The operation of the Affiliated Indexes, the Affiliated Index ETFs and other accounts managed in this manner may give rise to potential conflicts of interest.
For example, any accounts managed by the Investment Manager and/or its affiliates that seek to track the same Affiliated Indexes may engage in purchases and sales of securities at different times. These differences may result in certain accounts having more favorable performance relative to that of the Affiliated Index or other accounts that seek to track the Affiliated Index. Other potential conflicts include (i) the potential for unauthorized access to Affiliated Index information, allowing Affiliated Index changes that benefit the Investment Manager and/or its affiliates or other accounts managed by the Investment Manager and/or its affiliates and not the clients in the accounts seeking to track the Affiliated Index, and (ii) the manipulation of Affiliated Index pricing to present the performance of accounts seeking to track the Affiliated Index, or the firm’s tracking ability, in a preferential light.
The Investment Manager has adopted policies and procedures that are designed to address potential conflicts that may arise in connection with the operation of the Affiliated Indexes, the Affiliated Index ETFs and other accounts.
To the extent it is intended that an account managed by the Investment Manager and/or its affiliates seeks to track an Affiliated Index, the account may not match (performance or holdings), and may vary substantially from, such index for any period of time. An account that seeks to track an index may purchase, hold and sell securities at times when another client would not do so. The Investment Manager and its affiliates do not guarantee that any tracking error targets will be achieved. Accounts managed by the Investment Manager and/or its affiliates that seek to track an index may be negatively impacted by errors in the index, either as a result of calculation errors, inaccurate data sources or otherwise. The Investment Manager and its affiliates do not guarantee the timeliness, accuracy and/or completeness of an index and are not responsible for errors, omissions or interruptions in the index (including when the Investment Manager or an affiliate acts as the index provider) or the calculation thereof (including when the Investment Manager or an affiliate acts as the calculation agent).
The Investment Manager and its affiliates are not obligated to license the Affiliated Indexes to clients or other third-parties.
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Codes of Ethics
The funds in the Columbia Family of Funds (which includes the Fund), Columbia Management, and Columbia Management Investment Distributors (the distributor of the open-end funds (other than the Columbia ETFs) in the Columbia Fund Family) have adopted Codes of Ethics pursuant to the requirements of the 1940 Act, including Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. These Codes of Ethics permit personnel subject to the Codes of Ethics to invest in securities, including securities that may be bought or held by the Fund. These Codes of Ethics are included as exhibits to Part C of the Fund's registration statement. These Codes of Ethics are available on the EDGAR Database on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, and copies of these Codes of Ethics may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request to publicinfo@sec.gov.
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures
General. The Funds have delegated to the Investment Manager the responsibility to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the Funds, including Funds managed by subadvisers. In deciding to delegate this responsibility to the Investment Manager, the Board reviewed the policies adopted by the Investment Manager. These included the procedures that the Investment Manager follows when a vote presents a conflict between the interests of the Funds and their shareholders and the Investment Manager and its affiliates.
The Investment Manager’s policy is to vote all proxies for Fund securities in a manner considered by the Investment Manager to be in the best economic interests of its clients, including the Funds, without regard to any benefit or detriment to the Investment Manager, its employees or its affiliates. The best economic interests of clients is defined for this purpose as the interest of enhancing or protecting the value of client accounts, considered as a group rather than individually, as the Investment Manager determines in its discretion. The Investment Manager endeavors to vote all proxies of which it becomes aware prior to the vote deadline; provided, however, that in certain circumstances the Investment Manager may refrain from voting securities. For instance, the Investment Manager may refrain from voting foreign securities if it determines that the costs of voting outweigh the expected benefits of voting and typically will not vote securities if voting would impose trading restrictions.
The Board may, in its discretion, vote proxies for the Funds. For instance, the Board may determine to vote on matters that may present a material conflict of interest to the Investment Manager. In addition, the Board may instruct the Investment Manager to vote in accordance with guidelines approved by the Board.
Oversight. The operation of the Investment Manager’s proxy voting policy and procedures is overseen by a group of representatives from the Investment Manager and its advisory affiliates. Oversight of the Investment Manager’s proxy voting is also provided by a committee within the Investment Manager comprised of portfolio managers and research analysts. The Board reviews on an annual basis, or more frequently if determined appropriate, the Investment Manager’s administration of the proxy voting process.
Corporate Governance and Proxy Voting Guidelines (the Guidelines). The Investment Manager has adopted the Guidelines, which set out voting stances on key issues and the broad principles shaping its approach, as well as the types of related voting action the Investment Manager may take. The Guidelines also provide indicative examples of key guidelines used in any given region, which illustrate the standards against which voting decisions are considered. The Investment Manager has developed voting stances that align with the Guidelines and will generally vote in accordance with such voting stances. The Investment Manager may determine to vote differently from the voting stances on particular proposals in the event it determines that doing so is in the clients’ best economic interests. The Investment Manager may consider the voting recommendations of analysts, portfolio managers, subadvisers and information obtained from outside resources, including one or more third party research providers. When proposals are not covered by the voting stances or a voting determination must be made on a case-by-case basis, a portfolio manager or analyst will make the voting determination based on his or her determination of the clients’ best economic interests.
Addressing Conflicts of Interest. The Investment Manager seeks to address potential material conflicts of interest by voting in accordance with predetermined voting stances. In addition, if the Investment Manager determines that a material conflict of interest exists, the Investment Manager will invoke one or more of the following conflict management practices: (i) causing the proxies to be voted in accordance with the recommendations of an independent third party (which may be the Investment Manager’s proxy voting administrator or research provider); (ii) causing the proxies to be delegated to an independent third party (which may be the Investment Manager’s proxy voting administrator or research provider); and (iii) in infrequent cases, forwarding the proxies to an Independent Director authorized to vote the proxies for the Funds. A member of a governing body responsible for overseeing proxy voting is prohibited from voting on any proposal for which he or she has a conflict of interest by reason of a direct relationship with the issuer or other party affected by a given proposal. Persons making recommendations are required to disclose any relationship with a party making a proposal or other matter known to the person that would create a potential conflict of interest.
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Voting Proxies of Affiliated Underlying Funds. Certain Funds may invest in shares of other Columbia Funds (referred to in this context as “underlying funds”) and may own substantial portions of these underlying funds. If such Funds are in a master-feeder structure, the feeder fund will either seek instructions from its shareholders with regard to the voting of proxies with respect to the master fund’s shares and vote such proxies in accordance with such instructions or vote the shares held by it in the same proportion as the vote of all other master fund shareholders. With respect to Funds that hold shares of underlying funds other than in a master-feeder structure, the holding Funds will typically vote proxies of the underlying funds in the same proportion as the vote of all other holders of the underlying fund’s shares, unless the Board otherwise instructs.
Proxy Voting Agents. The Investment Manager has retained Institutional Shareholder Services Inc., a third-party vendor, as its proxy voting administrator to implement its proxy voting process and to provide recordkeeping and vote disclosure services. Typically, Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. populates ballots for issuers deemed to present potential material conflicts of interest in accordance with predetermined voting stances, as described above under Addressing Conflicts of Interest. The Investment Manager has retained both Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. and Glass Lewis & Company, LLC to provide proxy research services.
Additional Information. Information regarding how the Columbia Funds (except certain Columbia Funds that do not invest in voting securities) voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve month period ended June 30 will be available by August 31 of this year free of charge: (i) through the Columbia Funds’ website at columbiathreadneedleus.com and/or (ii) on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. For a copy of the Guidelines in effect on the date of this SAI, see Appendix B to this SAI.
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FUND GOVERNANCE
Board of Directors and Officers
The Board oversees the Fund's operations and elects officers who are responsible for day-to-day business decisions based on policies set by the Board. The following table provides basic biographical information about the Fund's Directors as of the date of this SAI, including their principal occupations during the past five years, although specific titles for individuals may have varied over the period. Certain Directors may have served as a Trustee to other Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex prior to the date set forth in the Position Held with the Fund and Length of Service column. Under the Fund's charter and Amended and Restated Bylaws ("Bylaws"), Directors may serve a term ending at the third annual meeting of stockholders following their election, whereupon, if nominated for re-election, they may be re-elected to serve another term (the Fund’s Board has three classes, with one class expiring each year at the Fund’s regular stockholder’s meeting), or, under current Board policy, for Directors not affiliated with the Investment Manager, generally through the end of the calendar year in which they reach the mandatory retirement age established by the Board.
Directors
Independent Directors
| Name, Address, Year of Birth |
Position Held with the Fund and Length of Service |
Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years and Other Relevant Professional Experience |
Number of Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex Overseen |
Other Directorships Held by Director During the Past Five Years and Other Relevant Board Experience |
Committee Assignments |
| George S. Batejan c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210 1954 |
Director since January 2018 |
Executive Vice President, Global Head of Technology and Operations, Janus Capital Group, Inc., 2010- 2016 |
163 |
Former Chairman of the Board, NICSA (National Investment Company Services Association) (Executive Committee, Nominating Committee and Governance Committee), 2014- 2016; former Director, Intech Investment Management, 2011- 2016; former Board Member, Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce, 2015-2016; former Advisory Board Member, University of Colorado Business School, 2015-2018; former Board Member, Chase Bank International, 1993- 1994 |
Compliance, Contracts, Investment Review |
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| Name, Address, Year of Birth |
Position Held with the Fund and Length of Service |
Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years and Other Relevant Professional Experience |
Number of Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex Overseen |
Other Directorships Held by Director During the Past Five Years and Other Relevant Board Experience |
Committee Assignments |
| Kathleen Blatz c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210 1954 |
Director since October 2009 |
Attorney, specializing in arbitration and mediation; Trustee of Gerald Rauenhorst 1982 Trusts, since 2020; Chief Justice, Minnesota Supreme Court, 1998-2006; Associate Justice, Minnesota Supreme Court, 1996- 1998; Fourth Judicial District Court Judge, Hennepin County, 1994- 1996; Attorney in private practice and public service, 1984-1993; State Representative, Minnesota House of Representatives, 1979-1993, which included service on the Tax and Financial Institutions and Insurance Committees; Member and Interim Chair, Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, January-July 2017; Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota (health care insurance), February-July 2018, April-October 2021 |
163 |
Former Trustee, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, 2009- 2021 (Chair of the Business Development Committee, 2014- 2017; Chair of the Governance Committee, 2017-2019); former Member and Chair of the Board, Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority, January 2017- July 2017; former Director, Robina Foundation, 2009-2020 (Chair, 2014-2020); Director, Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, since 2021 |
Compliance, Contracts, Investment Review |
| Pamela G. Carlton c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210 1954 |
Director since October 2009; Chair of the Board since January 2023 |
President, Springboard- Partners in Cross Cultural Leadership (consulting company), since 2003; Managing Director of US Equity Research, JP Morgan Chase, 1999-2003; Director of US Equity Research, Chase Asset Management, 1996-1999; Co-Director Latin America Research, 1993-1996, COO Global Research, 1992-1996, Co-Director of US Research, 1991-1992, Investment Banker, 1982- 1991, Morgan Stanley; Attorney, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP, 1980-1982 |
163 |
Trustee, New York Presbyterian Hospital Board, since 1996; Director, DR Bank (Audit Committee, since 2017 and Audit Committee Chair, since November 2023); Director, Evercore Inc. (Audit Committee, Nominating and Governance Committee) (financial services company), since 2019; Director, Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc. (Chair, Nominating and Governance Committee), since 2021; the Governing Council of the Independent Directors Council (IDC), since 2021 |
Board Governance, Contracts, Investment Review |
| Janet Langford Carrig c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1957 |
Director since January 2023 |
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, ConocoPhillips (independent energy company), September 2007-October 2018 |
163 |
Director, EQT Corporation (natural gas producer), since 2019; former Director, Whiting Petroleum Corporation (independent oil and gas company), 2020- 2022 |
Board Governance, Contracts, Investment Review |
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| Name, Address, Year of Birth |
Position Held with the Fund and Length of Service |
Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years and Other Relevant Professional Experience |
Number of Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex Overseen |
Other Directorships Held by Director During the Past Five Years and Other Relevant Board Experience |
Committee Assignments |
| Patricia M. Flynn c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210 1950 |
Director since October 2009 |
Professor Emeritus of Economics and Management, Bentley University since 2023; Professor of Economics and Management, Bentley University, 1976-2023; Dean, McCallum Graduate School of Business, Bentley University, 1992- 2002 |
163 |
Former Trustee, MA Taxpayers Foundation, 1997-2022; former Director, The MA Business Roundtable, 2003-2019; former Chairperson, Innovation Index Advisory Committee, MA Technology Collaborative, 1997- 2020 |
Audit, Contracts, Investment Review |
| Brian J. Gallagher c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210 1954 |
Director since January 2020 |
Retired; Partner with Deloitte & Touche LLP and its predecessors, 1977- 2016 |
163 |
Trustee, Catholic Schools Foundation, since 2004 |
Audit, Board Governance, Contracts, Investment Review |
| Douglas A. Hacker c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1955 |
Director since January 2022 |
Independent business executive since May 2006; Executive Vice President – Strategy of United Airlines, December 2002-May 2006; President of UAL Loyalty Services (airline marketing company), September 2001-December 2002; Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of United Airlines, July 1999-September 2001 |
163 |
Director, SpartanNash Company (food distributor), since November 2013 (Chair of the Board since May 2021); Director, Aircastle Limited (aircraft leasing), since August 2006 (Chair of Audit Committee); former Director, Nash Finch Company (food distributor), 2005-2013; former Director, SeaCube Container Leasing Ltd. (container leasing), 2010-2013; and former Director, Travelport Worldwide Limited (travel information technology), 2014-2019 |
Audit, Board Governance, Contracts, Investment Review |
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| Name, Address, Year of Birth |
Position Held with the Fund and Length of Service |
Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years and Other Relevant Professional Experience |
Number of Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex Overseen |
Other Directorships Held by Director During the Past Five Years and Other Relevant Board Experience |
Committee Assignments |
| David M. Moffett c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1952 |
Director since January 2024 |
Retired; former Chief Executive Officer of Freddie Mac and Chief Financial Officer of U.S. Bank |
163 |
Director, CSX Corporation (transportation suppliers); Director, PayPal Holdings Inc. (payment and data processing services); former Director, eBay Inc. (online trading community), 2007- 2015; and former Director, CIT Bank, CIT Group Inc. (commercial and consumer finance), 2010-2016; former Senior Adviser to The Carlyle Group (financial services), March 2008- September 2008; former Governance Consultant to Bridgewater Associates (investment company), January 2013- December 2015 |
Audit, Contracts, Investment Review |
| Catherine James Paglia c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210 1952 |
Director since October 2009 |
Director, Enterprise Asset Management, Inc. (private real estate and asset management company), since September 1998; Managing Director and Partner, Interlaken Capital, Inc., 1989-1997; Vice President, 1982-1985, Principal, 1985-1987, Managing Director, 1987- 1989, Morgan Stanley; Vice President, Investment Banking, 1980-1982, Associate, Investment Banking, 1976-1980, Dean Witter Reynolds, Inc. |
163 |
Director, Valmont Industries, Inc. (irrigation systems manufacturer), since 2012; Trustee, Carleton College (on the Investment Committee), since 1987; Trustee, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace (on the Investment Committee), since 2009 |
Board Governance, Compliance, Contracts, Investment Review |
| Sandra L. Yeager c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210 1964 |
Director since June 2020 |
Retired; President and founder, Hanoverian Capital, LLC (SEC registered investment advisor firm), 2008-2016; Managing Director, DuPont Capital, 2006-2008; Managing Director, Morgan Stanley Investment Management, 2004-2006; Senior Vice President, Alliance Bernstein, 1990- 2004 |
163 |
Former Director, NAPE (National Alliance for Partnerships in Equity) Education Foundation, October 2016-October 2020; Advisory Board, Jennersville YMCA, June 2022-June 2023 |
Audit, Contracts, Investment Review |
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Interested Director Affiliated with Investment Manager**
| Name, Address, Year of Birth |
Position Held with the Fund and Length of Service |
Principal Occupation(s) During the Past Five Years and Other Relevant Professional Experience |
Number of Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex* Overseen |
Other Directorships Held by Director During the Past Five Years and Other Relevant Board Experience |
Committee Assignments |
| Daniel J. Beckman c/o Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1962 |
Director since November 2021 and President since June 2021 |
President and Principal Executive Officer of the Columbia Funds, since June 2021; Vice President, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, since April 2015; formerly, Vice President – Head of North America Product, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, April 2015 – December 2023; President and Principal Executive Officer, Columbia Acorn/Wanger Funds, since July 2021; President, Ameriprise Trust Company, since July 2024 |
163 |
Director, Ameriprise Trust Company, since October 2016; Director, Columbia Management Investment Distributors, Inc., since November 2018; former Member of Board of Governors, Columbia Wanger Asset Management, LLC, January 2022 – September 2024 |
None |
*
The term “Columbia Funds Complex” as used herein includes Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Tri-Continental Corporation and each series of Columbia Funds Series Trust (CFST), Columbia Funds Series Trust I (CFST I), Columbia Funds Series Trust II (CFST II), Columbia ETF Trust I (CET I), Columbia ETF Trust II (CET II), Columbia Funds Variable Insurance Trust (CFVIT) and Columbia Funds Variable Series Trust II (CFVST II). Messrs. Batejan, Beckman, Gallagher, Hacker and Moffett and Mses. Blatz, Carlton, Carrig, Flynn, Paglia and Yeager serve as directors of Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund and Tri-Continental Corporation.
**
Interested person (as defined under the 1940 Act) by reason of being an officer, director, security holder and/or employee of the Investment Manager or Ameriprise Financial.
The Officers
The Board has elected officers who are responsible for day-to-day business decisions based on policies it has established. The officers serve at the pleasure of the Board. The following table provides basic information about the Officers of the Fund as of the date of this SAI, including principal occupations during the past five years, although their specific titles may have varied over the period. In addition to Mr. Beckman, who is the President and Principal Executive Officer, the Fund’s other officers are:
Fund Officers
| Name, Address and Year of Birth |
Position and Year First Appointed to Position for any Fund in the Columbia Funds Complex or a Predecessor Thereof |
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years |
| Michael G. Clarke 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1969 |
Chief Financial Officer and Principal Financial Officer (2009); Senior Vice President (2019); and Treasurer and Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer) (2024) |
Senior Vice President and North America Head of Operations & Investor Services and Member of Board of Governors, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, since June 2023 and January 2024, respectively (previously Senior Vice President and Head of Global Operations & Investor Services, March 2022 - June 2023, Vice President, Head of North America Operations, and Co- Head of Global Operations, June 2019 - February 2022 and Vice President – Accounting and Tax, May 2010 - May 2019); senior officer of Columbia Funds and affiliated funds, since 2002. Director, Ameriprise Trust Company, since June 2023; Director, Columbia Management Investment Services Corp., since September 2024; Member of Board of Governors, Columbia Wanger Asset Management, LLC, since October 2024. |
| Charles H. Chiesa 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1978 |
Treasurer and Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer) (2024) and Principal Financial Officer (2024) |
Vice President, Head of Accounting and Tax of Global Operations & Investor Services, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, since May 2024; Senior Manager, KPMG, October 2022 – May 2024; Director - Business Analyst, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, December 2013 - October 2022. |
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| Name, Address and Year of Birth |
Position and Year First Appointed to Position for any Fund in the Columbia Funds Complex or a Predecessor Thereof |
Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years |
| Marybeth Pilat 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1968 |
Assistant Treasurer (2021) |
Vice President – Product Pricing and Administration, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, since May 2017. |
| William F. Truscott 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1960 |
Senior Vice President (2001) |
Formerly, Trustee/Director of Columbia Funds Complex or legacy funds, November 2001 - January 1, 2021; Chief Executive Officer, Global Asset Management, Ameriprise Financial, Inc., since September 2012; Chairman of the Board and President, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, since July 2004 and February 2012, respectively; President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, Columbia Management Investment Distributors, Inc., since January 2024, February 2012 and November 2008, respectively; Chairman of the Board and Director, TAM UK International Holdings Limited, since July 2021; President and Chairman of the Board, Columbia Wanger Asset Management, LLC, since October 2024; formerly Chairman of the Board and Director, Threadneedle Asset Management Holdings, Sàrl, March 2013 – December 2022 and December 2008 – December 2022, respectively; senior executive of various entities affiliated with Columbia Threadneedle Investments. |
| Christopher O. Petersen 5228 Ameriprise Financial Center Minneapolis, MN 55474 1970 |
Senior Vice President and Assistant Secretary (2021) |
Formerly, Trustee/Director of funds within the Columbia Funds Complex, July 1, 2020 - November 22, 2021; Senior Vice President and Assistant General Counsel, Ameriprise Financial, Inc., since September 2021 (previously Vice President and Lead Chief Counsel, January 2015 - September 2021); formerly, President and Principal Executive Officer of the Columbia Funds, 2015 - 2021; officer of Columbia Funds and affiliated funds since 2007. |
| Thomas P. McGuire 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1972 |
Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer (2012) |
Vice President – Asset Management Compliance, Ameriprise Financial, Inc., since May 2010; Chief Compliance Officer, Columbia Acorn/Wanger Funds since December 2015; formerly, Chief Compliance Officer, Ameriprise Certificate Company, September 2010 – September 2020. |
| Ryan C. Larrenaga 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1970 |
Senior Vice President (2017), Chief Legal Officer (2017) and Secretary (2015) |
Vice President and Chief Counsel, Ameriprise Financial, Inc., since August 2018 (previously Vice President and Group Counsel, August 2011 – August 2018); Chief Legal Officer, Columbia Acorn/Wanger Funds, since September 2020; officer of Columbia Funds and affiliated funds since 2005. |
| Michael E. DeFao 290 Congress Street Boston, MA 02210 1968 |
Vice President (2011) and Assistant Secretary (2010) |
Vice President and Chief Counsel, Ameriprise Financial, Inc., since May 2010; Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Assistant Secretary, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, since October 2021 (previously Vice President and Assistant Secretary, May 2010 – September 2021). |
Responsibilities of the Board with respect to Fund Management
The Board consists of Directors who have varied experience and skills. The Board is chaired by an Independent Director who has significant additional responsibilities compared to the other Board members, including, among other things: overseeing the setting of the agenda for Board meetings, communicating and meeting regularly with Board members between Board and committee meetings on Fund-related matters, with the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer, counsel to the Independent Directors, and representatives of the Fund’s service providers. The Board reviews its leadership structure periodically and believes that its structure is appropriate to enable the Board to exercise its oversight of the Fund. In particular, the Board believes that having an Independent Director serve as the chair of the Board and having other Independent Directors serve as chairs of each committee promotes independence from the Investment Manager in overseeing the setting of agendas and conducting of meetings. With respect to Mr. Beckman, the Board has concluded that having a senior officer of the Investment Manager serve as a Director benefits Fund stockholders by facilitating communication between the Independent Directors and the senior management of the Investment Manager, and by assisting efforts to align the interests of the Investment Manager more closely with those of Fund stockholders. The Board has several standing committees, which are an integral part of the Fund’s overall governance and risk
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oversight structure. The Board believes that its committee structure makes the oversight process more efficient and more effective by allowing, among other things, smaller groups of Directors to bring increased focus to matters within the purview of each committee. The roles of each committee are more fully described in the section Committees of the Board below.
The Board initially approved an investment management services agreement and other contracts with the Investment Manager and its affiliates and other service providers. The Board monitors the level and quality of services under such contracts. Annually, the Board evaluates the services received under the contracts by reviewing, among other things, reports covering investment performance, expenses, stockholder services, marketing, and the Investment Manager’s profitability.
The Investment Manager provides the Fund with investment advisory services, and is responsible for day-to-day administration of the Fund and management of the risks that arise from the Fund’s investments and operations. The Board provides oversight of the services provided by the Investment Manager, including risk management services. Various committees of the Board provide oversight of the Investment Manager’s risk management services with respect to the particular activities within the committee’s purview. In the course of providing oversight, the Board and the committees receive a wide range of reports with respect to the Fund’s activities, including reports regarding the Fund’s investment portfolio, the compliance of the Fund with applicable laws, and the Fund’s financial accounting and reporting. The Board and the relevant committees meet periodically with officers of the Fund and the Investment Manager and with representatives of various Fund service providers. In addition, the Board oversees processes that are in place addressing compliance with applicable rules, regulations and investment policies and addressing possible conflicts of interest. The Board and certain committees also meet regularly with the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer to receive reports regarding the compliance of the Fund and the Investment Manager with the federal securities laws and their internal compliance policies and procedures. In addition, the Board meets periodically with the portfolio managers of the Fund to receive reports regarding the management of the Fund. The Board met 4 times during the year ended December 31, 2023.
The Board also oversees the Fund’s liquidity risk through, among other things, receiving periodic reporting and presentations by investment and other personnel of the Investment Manager. Additionally, the Fund has implemented a written liquidity risk management program and related procedures (the Liquidity Program), which is designed to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk.
The Board recognizes that not all risks that may affect the Fund can be identified in advance; that it may not be practical or cost-effective to eliminate or mitigate certain risks; that it may be necessary to bear certain risks (such as various investment-related risks) in seeking to achieve the Fund’s investment objectives; and that the processes and controls employed to address certain risks may be limited in their effectiveness. As a result of the foregoing and other factors, the Board’s risk management oversight is subject to substantial limitations.
Director Biographical Information and Qualifications
The following provides an overview of the considerations that led the Board to conclude that each individual nominated and serving as a Director should so serve. Generally, no one factor was decisive in the selection of an individual to join the Board. Among the factors the Board considered when concluding that an individual should serve on the Board were the following: (i) the individual’s business and professional experience and accomplishments; (ii) the individual’s ability to work effectively with the other Directors; (iii) the individual’s prior experience, if any, serving on the boards of public companies (including, where relevant, other investment companies) and other complex enterprises and organizations; and (iv) how the individual’s skills, experience and attributes would contribute to an appropriate mix of relevant skills and experience on the Board.
In respect of each current Director, the individual’s substantial professional accomplishments and experience, including in fields related to the operations of the Fund, were a significant factor in the determination that, in light of the business and structure of the Fund, the individual should serve as a Director. Following is a summary of each Director’s particular professional experience and additional considerations that contributed to the Board’s conclusion that an individual should serve as a Director:
George S. Batejan – Mr. Batejan has over 40 years’ experience in the financial services industry, including service as a former Executive Vice President and Global Head of Technology and Operations of Janus Capital Group, Inc. He has also served as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Evergreen Investments, Inc., Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer of OppenheimerFunds, Inc., and Head of International Property and Casualty Operations and Systems/Senior Vice President of American International Group. Mr. Batejan is an 18-year veteran of Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A. where he progressed to Private Banking Vice President and Division Executive of the Americas’ Service Delivery Group. He has also served on numerous corporate and non-profit boards. Mr. Batejan has also served as Chair of the National Investment Company Service Association (NICSA). Additionally, Mr. Batejan has managed operational units supporting the
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mutual fund business. These functions include fund accounting, fund treasury, fund tax, transfer agent, trade processing and settlement, proxy voting, corporate actions, operational risk, business continuity, and cyber security. He was also a member of the Ethics Committee, Global Risk Committee, and Cyber Security Committee of a major investment manager.
Daniel J. Beckman – Mr. Beckman has significant experience in the financial services industry and with investment companies. Mr. Beckman has served as President of the Columbia Funds since 2021, as President and Principal Executive Officer of the Columbia Acorn/Wanger Funds since July 2021, and as an officer of the Columbia Funds and affiliated funds since 2020. He served as Vice President and Head of North America Product for the Investment Manager from April 2015 to December 2023. In this role, he led a team of professionals to drive product strategy, development and management, with the goal of ensuring that the current and future needs of the Investment Manager’s customer base are met across the institutional and intermediary channels. He serves as a director of Columbia Management Investment Distributors, Inc. since November 2018. He also serves as a board member of Columbia Wanger Asset Management, an affiliate of the Investment Manager since January 2022.
Kathleen Blatz – Ms. Blatz has had a successful legal and judicial career, including serving for eight years as Chief Justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. Prior to being a judge, she practiced law and also served in the Minnesota House of Representatives having been elected to eight terms. While in the legislature she served on various committees, including the Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee and the Tax Committee. Since retiring from the Bench, she has been appointed as an arbitrator on many cases involving business to business disputes, including some pertaining to shareholder rights issues. She also has been appointed to two Special Litigation Committees by boards of Fortune 500 companies to investigate issues relating to cyber-security and stock options. She served on the Board of Directors of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota from 2009 to 2021 and was appointed Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota in February 2018 and again in April 2021. She has served as Trustee of Gerald Rauenhorst 1982 Trusts, since 2020.
Pamela G. Carlton – Ms. Carlton has over 20 years’ experience in the investment banking industry, as a former Managing Director of JP Morgan Chase and a 14-year veteran of Morgan Stanley Investment Banking and Equity Research. She is currently the President of Springboard - Partners in Cross Cultural Leadership, a consulting firm that she founded. Ms. Carlton serves on the Board of Directors of Evercore Inc., a public investment bank; Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc., a publicly traded real estate investment trust; and a community bank. In addition, she serves on the Board of Trustees of New York Presbyterian Hospital, and in 2021 was elected to the Governing Council of the Independent Directors Council which represents independent directors and trustees serving on the boards of mutual funds, closed-end funds, exchange-traded funds and other registered investment companies.
Janet Langford Carrig – Ms. Carrig was Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary for ConocoPhillips. Prior to joining ConocoPhillips, Ms. Carrig held senior legal and leadership roles in other large corporations and law firms, including as a partner at the law firms Sidley & Austin and Zelle, Hoffman, Voelbel, Mason and Gette. She serves as Director of EQT Corporation. Ms. Carrig has previously served on the board of directors for another public company and various industry groups and non-profit organizations.
Patricia M. Flynn – Dr. Flynn is a Professor Emeritus of Economics and Management at Bentley University, where she previously served as Professor of Economics and Management and Dean of the McCallum Graduate School of Business. Her research and teaching focus on technology-based economic development, corporate governance and women in business, which she has also written on extensively. She has served on numerous corporate and non-profit boards, including Boston Fed Bancorp Inc., U.S. Trust and The Federal Savings Bank.
Brian J. Gallagher – Mr. Gallagher has 40 years of experience in the financial services industry, including 30 years of service as an audit partner in the financial services practice at Deloitte & Touche LLP. During his tenure at Deloitte, Mr. Gallagher served as the Industry Professional Practice Director for the Investment Management Audit Practice, and oversaw the development of the firm’s audit approach for clients in the industry, consulted on technical issues, and interacted with standard setters and regulators. He also has experience on boards of directors of non-profit organizations.
Douglas A. Hacker – Mr. Hacker has extensive executive experience, having served in various executive roles with United Airlines and more recently as an independent business executive. Mr. Hacker also has experience on other boards of directors. As former Chief Financial Officer of United Airlines, Mr. Hacker has significant experience in accounting and financial management, including in a public company setting.
David M. Moffett – Mr. Moffett has extensive executive and board of director experience, including serving on audit committees for public companies. Mr. Moffett was selected as CEO when the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation was placed under conservatorship in 2008, and served as a consultant to its interim Chief Executive Officer and the Board of Directors until 2009. Formerly, Mr. Moffett was the CFO of a large U.S. bank holding company where his responsibilities included trust and wealth management.
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Catherine James Paglia – Ms. Paglia has been a Director of Enterprise Asset Management, Inc., a real estate and asset management company, for over 15 years. She previously spent eight years as Vice President, Principal and Managing Director at Morgan Stanley, 10 years as a Managing Director of Interlaken Capital and served as Chief Financial Officer of two public companies. She also has experience on other boards of directors of public and non-profit organizations.
Sandra L. Yeager – Ms. Yeager has over 26 years of experience in the financial services industry. In August of 2008, she founded Hanoverian Capital, LLC, an investment boutique specializing in international equities for institutional clients, where she served as President and Chief Investment Officer through December 2016. Prior to that, Ms. Yeager served as Head of International Equities for DuPont Capital and Head of Global Equity Research for Morgan Stanley Investment Management, where she led a team of thirty people. Ms. Yeager began her investment career at AllianceBernstein as an equity analyst and advanced to become a global portfolio manager for institutional and mutual fund clients.
Committees of the Board
The Board has organized the following standing committees to facilitate its work: Board Governance Committee, Compliance Committee, Contracts Committee, Investment Review Committee and Audit Committee. These committees are comprised solely of Independent Directors. For each committee, the Board has adopted a written charter setting forth each committee's responsibilities. The table above, providing background on each Director, also includes their respective committee assignments. The duties of these committees are described below. Each committee was reconstituted effective January 1, 2024.
Ms. Carlton, as Chair of the Board, acts as point of contact between the Independent Directors and the Investment Manager between Board meetings in respect of general matters.
Board Governance Committee. Recommends to the Board the size, structure and composition of the Board and its committees; the compensation to be paid to members of the Board; and a process for evaluating the Board’s performance. The committee also reviews candidates for Board membership, including candidates recommended by stockholders. The committee also makes recommendations to the Board regarding responsibilities and duties of the Board, oversees proxy voting and supports the work of the Board Chair in relation to furthering the interests of the Fund and other funds in the Columbia Funds Complex overseen by the Board and their shareholders.
To be considered as a candidate for Director, the nomination must include a curriculum vitae and be mailed to Pamela G. Carlton, Chair of the Board, Columbia Funds Complex, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210. To be timely for consideration by the committee, the nominee submission, including all required information, must be submitted in writing not less than 120 days before the date of the proxy statement for the previous year’s annual meeting of stockholders. The committee will consider only one candidate submitted by such a stockholder or group for nomination for election at a meeting of stockholders. The committee will not consider self-nominated candidates or candidates nominated by members of a candidate’s family, including such candidate’s spouse, children, parents, uncles, aunts, grandparents, nieces and nephews. Stockholders who wish to submit a candidate for nomination directly to the Fund's stockholders must follow the procedures described in the Fund's Bylaws, as posted to the website columbiathreadneedleus.com.
The committee will consider and evaluate candidates submitted by the nominating shareholder or group on the basis of the same criteria as those used to consider and evaluate candidates submitted from other sources. The committee may take into account a wide variety of factors in considering director candidates, including (but not limited to): (i) the candidate’s knowledge in matters relating to the investment company industry; (ii) any experience possessed by the candidate as a director or senior officer of other public or private companies; (iii) the candidate’s educational background; (iv) the candidate’s reputation for high ethical standards and personal and professional integrity; (v) any specific financial, technical or other expertise possessed by the candidate, and the extent to which such expertise would complement the Board’s existing mix of skills and qualifications; (vi) the candidate’s perceived ability to contribute to the ongoing functions of the Board, including the candidate’s ability and commitment to attend meetings regularly, work collaboratively with other members of the Board and carry out his or her duties in the best interests of the Fund; (vii) the candidate’s ability to qualify as an independent director; and (viii) such other criteria as the committee determines to be relevant in light of the existing composition of the Board and any anticipated vacancies or other factors.
Members of the committee (and/or the Board) also meet personally with each nominee to evaluate the candidate’s ability to work effectively with other members of the Board, while also exercising independent judgment. Although the Board does not have a formal diversity policy, the Board endeavors to comprise itself of members with a broad mix of professional and personal backgrounds. Thus, the committee and the Board accorded particular weight to the individual professional background of each Independent Director. The committee held 1 meeting during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
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Compliance Committee. Supports the Fund's maintenance of a strong compliance program by providing a forum for Independent Directors to consider compliance matters impacting the Fund or its key service providers; developing and implementing, in coordination with the Chief Compliance Officer, a process for the review and consideration of compliance reports that are provided to the Board; and providing a designated forum for the Fund's Chief Compliance Officer to meet with Independent Directors on a regular basis to discuss compliance matters. The committee held 5 meetings during the year ended December 31, 2023.
Contracts Committee. Reviews and oversees the contractual relationships with service providers. Receives and analyzes reports covering the level and quality of services provided under contracts with the Fund and advises the Board regarding actions taken on these contracts during the annual review process. Reviews and considers, on behalf of all Directors, the Fund's investment advisory and administrative services to assist the Directors in fulfilling their responsibilities relating to the Board’s evaluation and consideration of these arrangements. The committee held 5 meetings during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023. The number of Contracts Committee meetings held during the year does not include meetings held by its subcommittee.
Investment Review Committee. Reviews and oversees the management of the Fund's assets. Considers investment management policies and strategies; investment performance; risk management techniques; and securities trading practices and reports areas of concern to the Board. The committee held 5 meetings during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023. The number of Investment Review Committee meetings held during the year does not include meetings held by its subcommittees.
Audit Committee. Oversees the accounting and financial reporting processes of the Fund and internal controls over financial reporting. Oversees the quality and integrity of the Fund's financial statements and independent audits as well as the Fund's compliance with legal and regulatory requirements relating to the Fund's accounting and financial reporting, internal controls over financial reporting and independent audits. The committee also makes recommendations regarding the selection of the Fund's independent registered public accounting firm (i.e., independent auditors) and reviews and evaluates the qualifications, independence and performance of the auditor. The committee oversees the Fund's risks by, among other things, meeting with the Fund's internal auditors, establishing procedures for the confidential, anonymous submission by employees of concerns about accounting or audit matters, and overseeing the Fund's Disclosure Controls and Procedures. This committee acts as a liaison between the independent auditors and the full Board and must prepare an audit committee report. This committee operates pursuant to a written charter, a copy of which is available at columbiathreadneedleus.com. The members of this committee are “independent” as required by applicable listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange. The committee held 2 meetings during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023.
Beneficial Equity Ownership
The tables below show, for each Director, the amount of Fund equity securities beneficially owned by the Director and the aggregate value of all investments in equity securities of all Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex overseen by the Director, including notional amounts through the Deferred Compensation Plan, where noted. The information is provided as of December 31, 2023.
The tables only include ownership of Columbia Funds overseen by the Directors; the Directors and Officers may own shares of other Columbia Funds they do not oversee.
Independent Director Ownership
| Board Member |
Dollar Range of Equity Securities Owned by Director of the Fund |
Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity Securities in all Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex Overseen by the Director |
| George S. Batejan |
$1-$10,000 |
Over $100,000(a) |
| Kathleen Blatz |
$1-$10,000 |
Over $100,000 |
| Pamela G. Carlton |
$50,001-$100,000 |
Over $100,000(a) |
| Janet Langford Carrig |
$1-$10,000 |
Over $100,000(a) |
| Patricia M. Flynn |
$1-$10,000 |
Over $100,000(a) |
| Brian J. Gallagher |
$1-$10,000 |
Over $100,000(a) |
| Douglas A. Hacker |
$1-$10,000 |
Over $100,000 |
| David M. Moffett(b) |
$0 |
Over $100,000(a) |
| Catherine James Paglia |
$1-$10,000 |
Over $100,000(a) |
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| Board Member |
Dollar Range of Equity Securities Owned by Director of the Fund |
Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity Securities in all Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex Overseen by the Director |
| Sandra L. Yeager |
$10,001-$50,000 |
Over $100,000(a) |
(a)
Includes the value of compensation payable under a Deferred Compensation Plan that is determined as if the amounts deferred had been invested, as of the date of deferral, in shares of one or more funds in the Columbia Funds Complex overseen by the Director as specified by the Director.
(b)
Mr. Moffett became a Director effective January 1, 2024; the value shown for Mr. Moffett’s ownership of the Fund in the table above is as of such date.
(a)
Includes the value of compensation payable under a Deferred Compensation Plan that is determined as if the amounts deferred had been invested, as of the date of deferral, in shares of one or more Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex overseen by the Director as specified by the Director.
Interested Director Ownership
| Interested Director |
Dollar Range of Equity Securities Owned by Director of the Fund |
Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity Securities Owned by Director or Nominee of All Funds Overseen by Director of the Columbia Funds Complex |
| Daniel J. Beckman |
$10,001-$50,000 |
Over $100,000(a) |
(a)
With respect to Mr. Beckman, this amount includes compensation payable under a Deferred Compensation Plan administered by Ameriprise Financial.
Compensation
Total compensation. The following table shows the total compensation paid to Independent Directors for their services from all the Funds in the Columbia Funds Complex overseen by the Director, as well as from the Fund, for the period ended December 31, 2023.
Mr. Beckman is not compensated for his services on the Board.
| Director Name(a) |
Aggregate Compensation From Fund(b) |
Pension or Retirement Benefits Accrued As Part of Fund Expenses |
Estimated Annual Benefits Upon Retirement |
Total Compensation From Fund and Fund Complex Paid to Directors(c) |
| |
|
|
|
|
| George S. Batejan(d) |
$3,553 |
N/A |
N/A |
$469,000 |
| Kathleen Blatz |
$3,553 |
N/A |
N/A |
$481,000 |
| Pamela G. Carlton(e) |
$3,553 |
N/A |
N/A |
$560,000 |
| Janet Langford Carrig(f) |
$3,553 |
N/A |
N/A |
$484,000 |
| Patricia M. Flynn(g) |
$3,553 |
N/A |
N/A |
$451,000 |
| Brian J. Gallagher(h) |
$3,553 |
N/A |
N/A |
$499,000 |
| Douglas A. Hacker |
$3,553 |
N/A |
N/A |
$466,000 |
| David M. Moffett(i) |
$0 |
N/A |
N/A |
$456,000 |
| Catherine James Paglia(j) |
$3,553 |
N/A |
N/A |
$466,000 |
| Sandra Yeager(k) |
$3,553 |
N/A |
N/A |
$484,000 |
(a)
Director compensation is paid by the Funds and is comprised of a combination of a base fee and meeting fees, with the exception of the Chair of the Board, who receives a base annual compensation.
(b)
Includes any portion of cash compensation Directors elected to defer during the fiscal period.
(c)
The Directors may elect to defer a portion of the total cash compensation payable. Additional information regarding the Deferred Compensation Plan is described below. Each Director oversees 163 funds in the Columbia Funds Complex.
(d)
As of June 30, 2024, the value of Mr. Batejan’s account under the Deferred Compensation Plan was $71,795.
(e)
As of June 30, 2024, the value of Ms. Carlton’s account under the Deferred Compensation Plan was $1,637,033.
(f)
As of June 30, 2024, the value of Ms. Carrig’s account under the Deferred Compensation Plan was $6,557,224.
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(g)
As of June 30, 2024, the value of Ms. Flynn’s account under the Deferred Compensation Plan was $3,970,503.
(h)
As of June 30, 2024, the value of Mr. Gallagher’s account under the Deferred Compensation Plan was $1,550,039.
(i)
Mr. Moffett became a Director effective January 1, 2024 and, as such, received no compensation from the Fund prior to such date. Prior to January 1, 2024, Mr. Moffett served as a trustee to certain open-end funds in the Columbia Funds Complex. As of June 30, 2024, the value of Mr. Moffett’s account under the Deferred Compensation Plan was $5,430,680.
(j)
As of June 30, 2024, the value of Ms. Paglia’s account under the Deferred Compensation Plan was $6,558,902.
(k)
As of June 30, 2024, the value of Ms. Yeager’s account under the Deferred Compensation Plan was $1,534,930.
In addition to the above compensation, all Independent Directors receive reimbursements for reasonable expenses related to their attendance at meetings of the Board or standing committees, which are not included in the amounts shown.
Independent Directors did not accrue any pension or retirement benefits as part of Fund expenses, nor will they receive any annual benefits upon retirement.
Deferred Compensation Plan
Under the terms of the Deferred Fee Agreement (the Deferred Compensation Plan), each eligible Director may elect, on an annual basis, to defer receipt of all or a portion of compensation payable to him or her for service as a Director for that calendar year (expressly, a Director may elect to defer his/her annual retainer, his/her attendance fees, or both components, which together comprise total compensation for service). Fees deferred by a Director are credited to a book reserve account (the Deferral Account) established by the Columbia Funds, the value of which is derived from the rate of return of one or more Columbia Funds selected by the Director (with accruals to the Deferral Account beginning at such time as a Director’s fund elections having been established, and proceeds for service having been paid into such account, and terminating at such time as when proceeds become payable to such Director under the Deferred Compensation Plan). Directors may change their fund elections only in accordance with the provisions of the Deferred Compensation Plan.
Distributions from a Director’s Deferral Account will be paid either in a lump sum or in annual installments. Payments made in annual installments are disbursed over a period of up to ten years, following such time as a Director may qualify to receive such payments. If a deferring Director dies prior to or after the commencement of the disbursement of amounts accrued in his/her Deferral Account, the balance of the account will be distributed to his/her designated beneficiary either in lump sum or in annual payments as established by such Director himself/herself, his/her beneficiary or his/her estate. Amounts payable under the Deferred Compensation Plan are not funded or secured in any way, and each deferring Director has the status of a general unsecured creditor of the Columbia Fund(s) from which compensation has been deferred.
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BROKERAGE ALLOCATION AND RELATED PRACTICES
General Brokerage Policy, Brokerage Transactions and Broker Selection
Subject to policies established by the Board, as well as the terms of the Management Agreement, the Investment Manager and/or any investment subadviser is/are responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities and other instruments and assets for a Fund, for the selection of broker-dealers, for the execution of a Fund’s transactions and for the allocation of brokerage commissions in connection with such transactions. The Investment Manager effects transactions for the Fund consistent with its duty to seek best execution of client (including Fund) orders under the circumstances of the particular transaction. Purchases and sales of securities on a securities exchange are effected through broker-dealers who charge negotiated commissions for their services. Orders may be directed to any broker-dealer to the extent and in the manner permitted by applicable law and by the policies and procedures of the Investment Manager or any investment subadvisers executing such transactions.
In the over-the-counter market, securities generally are traded on a “net” basis with dealers acting as principals for their own accounts without stated commissions, although the price of a security usually includes a profit to the dealer. In underwritten offerings, securities are bought at a fixed price that includes an amount of compensation to the underwriter, generally referred to as the underwriter’s “concession” or “discount.” On occasion, certain money market instruments may be bought directly from an issuer, in which case no commissions or discounts are paid.
The Investment Manager effects security transactions for the Funds consistent with its duty to seek best execution of client (including the Funds) orders under the circumstances of the particular transaction, which may result in a Fund paying a brokerage commission in excess of what another broker-dealer might have charged for effecting the same transaction. In seeking such execution, the Investment Manager will use its best judgment in evaluating the terms of a transaction, and will give consideration to various relevant factors, including, without limitation, the size and type of the transaction, the nature and character of the market for the security or other instrument or asset, the confidentiality, speed and certainty of effective execution required for the transaction, the general execution and operational capabilities of the broker-dealer, the reputation, reliability, experience and financial condition of the broker-dealer, the value and quality of the services rendered by the broker-dealer in this instance and other transactions and the reasonableness of the spread or commission, if any. Reports on brokerage commissions are provided at least annually to the Board. Research services received from broker-dealers supplement the Investment Manager’s own research and may include the following types of information: statistical and background information on industry groups and individual companies; forecasts and interpretations with respect to U.S. and foreign economies, securities, markets, specific industry groups and individual companies; information on political developments; Fund management strategies; performance information on securities and other instruments and assets and information concerning prices of same; and information supplied by specialized services to the Investment Manager and to the Board with respect to the performance, investment activities and fees and expenses of other funds. Such information may be communicated electronically, orally or in written form.
Broker-dealers may, from time to time, arrange meetings with management of issuers and provide access to consultants who supply research information. The outside research is useful to the Investment Manager since, in certain instances, the broker-dealers utilized by the Investment Manager may follow a different universe of issuers and other matters than those that the Investment Manager’s staff follow. In addition, this research provides the Investment Manager with a different perspective on investment matters, even if the securities research obtained relates to issuers followed by the Investment Manager.
Research services that are provided to the Investment Manager by broker-dealers are available for the benefit of all accounts managed or advised by the Investment Manager. In some cases, the research services are available only from the broker-dealer providing such services. In other cases, the research services may be obtainable from alternative sources. Broker-dealer research typically supplements rather than replaces the Investment Manager’s own research, tending to improve the quality of its investment advice. However, to the extent that the Investment Manager would have bought any such research services had such services not been provided by broker-dealers, the expenses of such services to the Investment Manager could be considered to have been reduced accordingly. Certain research services furnished by broker-dealers may be useful to the clients of the Investment Manager other than the Fund or Funds whose trading through a broker-dealer generated the research services. Conversely, any research services received by the Investment Manager through the placement of transactions of other clients may be of value to the Investment Manager in fulfilling its obligations to the Funds. The Investment Manager is of the opinion that this material is beneficial in supplementing its research and analysis; and, therefore, it may benefit the Funds by improving the quality of the Investment Manager’s investment advice. The advisory fees paid by the Funds are not reduced because the Investment Manager receives such services.
Under Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act, provides a “safe harbor” for the Investment Manager to obtain research used in investment decision-making and brokerage services with client commissions. As a result, broker-dealers typically provide services including research and execution of transactions. The research provided can be either broker-dealer proprietary research (created and provided by a broker-dealer, including tangible research products as well as access to analysts and traders) or third party research
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(created by a third party but provided by a broker-dealer). The Investment Manager uses broker-dealers who provide both types of research products and services, as well as brokerage products and services, in exchange for commissions generated by transactions in the client accounts (including the Funds), also known as “soft dollars” or client commission arrangements.
Under Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act, the Investment Manager shall not be “deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached its fiduciary duty” solely because under certain circumstances it has caused the account to pay a higher commission than the lowest available. To obtain the benefit of Section 28(e), the Investment Manager must make a good faith determination that the commissions paid are “reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such member, broker, or dealer, viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or his overall responsibilities with respect to the accounts as to which he exercises investment discretion.” Accordingly, the price to a Fund in any transaction may be less favorable than that available from another broker-dealer if the difference is reasonably justified by other aspects of the brokerage and research services offered. Generally, the Investment Manager may execute trades through a broker-dealer, which subsequently makes payment to a research-producing broker-dealer at the Investment Manager’s direction, retaining a predetermined portion of the commissions for execution. The Investment Manager determines the amount of the payments through a broker research evaluation process. This compensation method, sometimes referred to as a “commission sharing arrangement” allows the Investment Manager to more selectively obtain research from one broker-dealer while seeking the execution services of another, preferred execution broker-dealer. Such commission sharing arrangements do not obligate the Investment Manager to generate a specified level of commissions with the executing broker-dealers. The Board reviews the Investment Manager’s soft dollar practices at least annually.
The Investment Manager does not consider sales of shares of the Funds as a factor in the selection of broker-dealers through which to execute securities transactions on behalf of the Funds. On a periodic basis, the Investment Manager makes a comprehensive review of the broker-dealers and the overall reasonableness of their commissions, and evaluates execution, operational efficiency, and research services. Certain limited reviews are also conducted by an independent third-party evaluator.
Commission rates are established pursuant to negotiations with broker-dealers based on the quality and quantity of execution services provided by broker-dealers in light of generally prevailing rates. On exchanges on which commissions are negotiated, the cost of transactions may vary among different broker-dealers. Transactions on foreign stock exchanges involve payment of brokerage commissions that generally are fixed. Transactions in both foreign and domestic over-the-counter markets generally are principal transactions with dealers, and the costs of such transactions involve dealer spreads rather than brokerage commissions. With respect to over-the-counter transactions, the Investment Manager, where possible, will deal directly with dealers who make a market in the securities involved, except in those circumstances in which better prices and execution are available elsewhere.
The Investment Manager or a subadviser, if applicable, may use step-out transactions. A “step-out” is an arrangement in which the Investment Manager or subadviser executes a trade through one broker-dealer but instructs that broker-dealer to step-out all or a part of the trade to another broker-dealer. The second broker-dealer will clear and settle, and receive commissions for, the stepped-out portion. The Investment Manager or subadviser may receive research products and services in connection with step-out transactions.
Use of Fund commissions to obtain research products and services may create potential conflicts of interest between the Investment Manager or subadviser and a Fund because it allows the Investment Manager to use the research in managing its client accounts without paying cash (“hard dollars”) out of its own assets without a commensurate reduction in its advisory fees. However, the Investment Manager and each subadviser has policies and procedures designed to mitigate these conflicts and ensure that the use of Fund commissions falls within the “safe harbor” of Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act.
Some products and services may be used for both investment decision-making and non-investment decision-making purposes (“mixed use” items). The Investment Manager and each subadviser, to the extent it has mixed use items, has procedures in place to assure that Fund commissions pay only for the investment decision-making portion of a mixed-use item.
Some broker-dealers with whom the Investment Manager’s Fixed Income Department executes trades provide the Fixed Income Department with proprietary research products and services, though the Fixed Income Department does not put in place any client commission arrangements with such broker-dealers. It is the Investment Manager’s policy not to execute a fixed income trade with a broker-dealer at a lower bid/higher offer than that provided by another broker-dealer in consideration of the value of research products and services received by the Fixed Income Department.
In certain instances, there may be securities that are suitable for a Fund as well as for one or more of the other clients of the Investment Manager. Investment decisions for the Funds and for the Investment Manager’s other clients are made with the goal of achieving their respective investment objectives. A particular security may be bought or sold for only one client even though it may be held by, or bought or sold for, other clients. Likewise, a particular security may be bought for one or more clients when one or more other clients are selling that same security. Some simultaneous transactions are inevitable when a number of accounts receive investment advice from the same investment adviser, particularly when the same security is suitable for the
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investment objectives of more than one client. When two or more clients are engaged simultaneously in the purchase or sale of the same security, the securities are allocated among clients in a manner believed to be equitable to each. In some cases, this policy could have a detrimental effect on the price or volume of the security in a particular transaction that may affect the Funds.
The Investment Manager operates several trading desks in different geographic locations that support different portfolio management teams managing a variety of accounts and products, including the Investment Manager’s portfolio management teams supporting the Funds. The equity and fixed income trading desks are functionally and operationally integrated to operate as one global desk. While the trading desks operate in several locations, the desks operate under the same oversight and reporting lines and are generally conducted under similar policies and procedures. In addition, certain fixed income portfolio managers currently have the authority to execute trades themselves in limited circumstances.
As the Investment Manager seeks to enhance its investment capabilities and services to its clients, including the Funds, the Investment Manager may engage certain of its investment advisory affiliates (Participating Affiliates) around the world to provide a variety of services. For example, the Investment Manager may engage Participating Affiliates and their personnel to provide (jointly or in coordination with the Investment Manager) services relating to client relations, investment monitoring, account administration, trading and discretionary investment management (including portfolio management and risk management) to certain accounts the Investment Manager manages, including the Funds, other pooled vehicles and separately managed accounts. In some circumstances, a Participating Affiliate may delegate responsibility for providing those services to another Participating Affiliate. In addition, the Investment Manager may provide certain similar services to its Participating Affiliates for accounts they manage.
The Investment Manager believes that harnessing the collective expertise of the firm and its Participating Affiliates will benefit its clients. In this regard, the Investment Manager has certain portfolio management and client servicing teams at both the firm and at Participating Affiliates (through subadvisory or other intercompany arrangements) operating jointly to provide a better client experience. These joint teams use expanded and shared capabilities, including the sharing of research and other information by investment personnel (e.g., portfolio managers and analysts) relating to economic perspectives, market analysis and equity and fixed income securities analysis.
Participating Affiliates may provide certain advisory and trading-related services to certain of the Investment Manager’s accounts, including the Funds. The Investment Manager may also provide similar services to certain accounts of Participating Affiliates. The Investment Manager believes that local trading in certain local markets will benefit its clients, including the Funds. However, such services may result in potential conflicts of interest to such accounts.
The Investment Manager has portfolio management teams in its multiple geographic locations that may share research information regarding leveraged loans. The Investment Manager operates separate and independent trading desks in these locations for the purpose of purchasing and selling leveraged loans. As a result, the Investment Manager does not aggregate orders in leveraged loans across portfolio management teams. For example, funds and other client accounts being managed by these portfolio management teams may purchase and sell the same leveraged loan in the secondary market on the same day at different times and at different prices. There is also the potential for a particular account or group of accounts, including a Fund, to forego an opportunity or to receive a different allocation (either larger or smaller) than might otherwise be obtained if the Investment Manager were to aggregate trades in leveraged loans across the portfolio management teams. Although the Investment Manager does not aggregate orders in leveraged loans across its portfolio management teams in the multiple geographic locations, it operates in this structure subject to its duty to seek best execution.
The Funds may participate, if and when practicable, in bidding for the purchase of portfolio securities directly from an issuer in order to take advantage of the lower purchase price available to members of a bidding group. A Fund will engage in this practice, however, only when the Investment Manager, in its sole discretion, believes such practice to be otherwise in such Fund’s interests.
The Funds will not execute portfolio transactions through, or buy or sell portfolio securities from or to the Investment Manager and its affiliates acting as principal (including repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements), except to the extent permitted by applicable law, regulation or order. However, the Investment Manager is authorized to allocate buy and sell orders for portfolio securities to certain broker-dealers and financial institutions, including, in the case of agency transactions, broker-dealers and financial institutions that are affiliated with Ameriprise Financial. To the extent that a Fund executes any securities trades with an affiliate of Ameriprise Financial, such Fund does so in conformity with Rule 17e-1 under the 1940 Act and the procedures that such Fund has adopted pursuant to the rule. In this regard, for each transaction, the Board will determine that the transaction is effected in accordance with the Funds’ Rule 17e-1 procedures, which require: (i) the transaction resulted in prices for and execution of securities transactions at least as favorable to the particular Fund as those likely to be derived from a non-affiliated qualified broker-dealer; (ii) the affiliated broker-dealer charged the Fund commission rates consistent with those charged by the affiliated broker-dealer in similar transactions to clients comparable to the Fund and that are not affiliated with the broker-dealer
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in question; and (iii) the fees, commissions or other remuneration paid by the Fund did not exceed 2% of the sales price of the securities if the sale was effected in connection with a secondary distribution, or 1% of the purchase or sale price of such securities if effected in other than a secondary distribution.
Certain affiliates of Ameriprise Financial may have deposit, loan or commercial banking relationships with the corporate users of facilities financed by industrial development revenue bonds or private activity bonds bought by certain of the Funds. Ameriprise Financial or certain of its affiliates may serve as trustee, custodian, tender agent, guarantor, placement agent, underwriter, or in some other capacity, with respect to certain issues of securities. Under certain circumstances, a Fund may buy securities from a member of an underwriting syndicate in which an affiliate of Ameriprise Financial is a member. The Funds have adopted procedures pursuant to Rule 10f-3 under the 1940 Act, and intend to comply with the requirements of Rule 10f-3, in connection with any purchases of securities that may be subject to Rule 10f-3.
Given the breadth of the Investment Manager’s investment management activities, investment decisions for the Funds are not always made independently from those other investment companies and accounts advised or managed by the Investment Manager. To the extent permitted by law, when a purchase or sale of the same security is made at substantially the same time on behalf of one or more of the Funds and another investment portfolio, investment company or account, the Investment Manager may aggregate the securities to be sold or bought for the Funds with those to be sold or bought for other investment portfolios, investment companies or accounts in executing transactions, and such transactions will be averaged as to price and available investments allocated as to amount in a manner which the Investment Manager believes to be equitable to the Funds and such other investment portfolio, investment company or account. In some instances, this investment procedure may adversely affect the price paid or received by a Fund or the size of the position obtained or sold by the Fund.
See Investment Management and Other Services – Other Roles and Relationships of Ameriprise Financial and its Affiliates – Certain Conflicts of Interest for more information about these and other conflicts of interest.
Brokerage Commissions
The following charts reflect the amounts of brokerage commissions paid by the Fund for the three most recently completed fiscal years. In certain instances, the Fund may pay brokerage commissions to broker-dealers that are affiliates of Ameriprise Financial. As indicated above, all such transactions involving the payment of brokerage commissions to affiliates are done in compliance with Rule 17e-1 under the 1940 Act.
Aggregate Brokerage Commissions Paid by the Fund
The following chart reflects the aggregate amount of brokerage commissions paid by the Fund for the three most recently completed fiscal years.
Total Brokerage Commissions
| |
Total Brokerage Commissions | ||
| Fund |
2023 |
2022 |
2021 |
| For Funds with fiscal period ending December 31 | |||
| Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
$132,756 |
$87,967 |
$116,373 |
Brokerage Commissions Paid to Brokers Affiliated with the Investment Manager
Affiliates of the Investment Manager may engage in brokerage and other securities transactions on behalf of a Fund according to procedures adopted by the Board and to the extent consistent with applicable provisions of the federal securities laws. Subject to approval by the Board, the same conditions apply to transactions with broker-dealer affiliates of any Fund subadviser. The Investment Manager will use an affiliate only if (i) the Investment Manager determines that the Fund will receive prices and executions at least as favorable, under the circumstances, as those offered by qualified independent brokers performing similar brokerage and other services for the Fund and (ii) the affiliate charges the Fund commission rates consistent with those the affiliate charges comparable unaffiliated customers in similar transactions and if such use is consistent with terms of the Management Agreement.
No brokerage commissions were paid by the Fund in the last three fiscal periods to brokers affiliated with the Fund's Investment Manager or any subadvisers.
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Directed Brokerage
The Fund or the Investment Manager, through an agreement or understanding with a broker-dealer, or otherwise through an internal allocation procedure, may direct, subject to applicable legal requirements, the Fund's brokerage transactions to a broker-dealer because of the research services it provides the Fund or the Investment Manager.
Reported numbers include third party soft dollar commissions and portfolio manager directed commissions directed for research. The Investment Manager also receives proprietary research from brokers, but these amounts have not been included in the table.
During the Fund’s last fiscal year, the Fund directed certain brokerage transactions and paid related commissions in the amounts as follows:
Brokerage Directed for Research
| |
Brokerage directed for research | |
| Fund |
Amount of Transactions |
Amount of Commissions Imputed or Paid |
| For Funds with fiscal period ending December 31 | ||
| Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
$136,499,843 |
$27,539 |
Securities of Regular Broker-Dealers
In certain cases, the Fund, as part of its principal investment strategies, or otherwise as a permissible investment, will invest in the common stock or debt obligations of the regular broker-dealers that the Investment Manager uses to transact brokerage for the Fund.
As of the Fund’s last fiscal year end, the Fund owned securities of its “regular brokers or dealers” or its parents, as defined in Rule 10b-1 under the 1940 Act, as shown in the table below:
Investments in Securities of Regular Brokers or Dealers
| Fund |
Issuer |
Value of securities owned at end of fiscal period |
| For Funds with fiscal period ending December 31, 2023 | ||
| Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
None |
N/A |
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108
TAXATION
The following information supplements and should be read in conjunction with the section in the Fund’s prospectus entitled Distributions and Taxes. The prospectus generally describes the U.S. federal income tax treatment of the Fund and its stockholders. This section of the SAI provides additional information concerning U.S. federal income taxes. It is based on the Code, applicable U.S. Treasury Regulations, judicial authority, and administrative rulings and practice, all as in effect as of the date of this SAI and all of which are subject to change, including changes with retroactive effect. The following discussion does not address any state, local or foreign tax matters. The Fund may or may not invest in all of the securities or other instruments described in this Taxation section. Please see the Fund's prospectus for information about the Fund's investments, as well as the Fund’s semiannual and annual shareholder reports. Except as otherwise noted, it may not apply to certain types of shareholders who may be subject to special rules, such as insurance companies, tax-exempt organizations, shareholders holding Fund shares through tax-advantaged accounts (such as 401(k) Plan Accounts or Individual Retirement Accounts, variable annuity contracts or variable life insurance contracts), financial institutions, broker-dealers, entities that are not organized under the laws of the United States or a political subdivision thereof, persons who are neither citizens nor residents of the United States, shareholders holding Fund shares as part of a hedge, straddle, or conversion transaction, shareholders who are subject to the U.S. federal alternative minimum tax, trusts, estates, pass-through entities or investors in such entities, “controlled foreign corporations,” “passive foreign investment companies,” persons eligible for benefits under an income tax treaty to which the United States is a party, or persons otherwise subject to special treatment under the Code.
The Fund has not requested and will not request an advance ruling from the IRS as to the U.S. federal income tax matters described below. The IRS could adopt positions contrary to those discussed below and such positions could be sustained. In addition, the following discussion and the discussions in the prospectus address only some of the U.S. federal income tax considerations generally affecting investments in the Fund. Prospective shareholders are urged to consult with their own tax advisors and financial planners regarding the U.S. federal tax consequences of an investment in the Fund, the application of state, local, or foreign laws, and the effect of any possible changes in applicable tax laws on their investment in the Fund.
Qualification as a Regulated Investment Company
It is intended that the Fund qualify as a “regulated investment company” under Subchapter M of Subtitle A, Chapter 1 of the Code.
In order to qualify for the special tax treatment accorded regulated investment companies and their stockholders under the Code, the Fund must, among other things, derive at least 90% of its gross income each taxable year generally from (i) dividends, interest, certain payments with respect to securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income attributable to its business of investing in such stock, securities or foreign currencies (including, but not limited to, gains from options, futures or forward contracts) and (ii) net income derived from an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership, as defined below. In general, for purposes of this 90% gross income requirement, income derived from a partnership (other than a qualified publicly traded partnership) will be treated as qualifying income only to the extent such income is attributable to items of income of the partnership which would be qualifying income if realized directly by the regulated investment company. However, 100% of the net income derived from an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership (generally, defined as a partnership (x) the interests in which are traded on an established securities market or readily tradable on a secondary market or the substantial equivalent thereof, and (y) that derives less than 90% of its gross income from the qualifying income described in clause (i) above) will be treated as qualifying income. In general, such entities will be treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes if they meet the passive income requirement under Section 7704(c)(2) of the Code. Certain of the Fund’s investments in master limited partnerships (MLPs) and ETFs, if any, may qualify as interests in qualified publicly traded partnerships. In addition, although in general the passive loss rules do not apply to a regulated investment company, such rules do apply to a regulated investment company with respect to items attributable to an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership.
The Fund must also diversify its holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of the Fund’s taxable year: (i) at least 50% of the fair market value of its total assets consists of (A) cash and cash items (including receivables), U.S. Government securities and securities of other regulated investment companies, and (B) other securities, of any one issuer (other than those described in clause (A)) to the extent such securities do not exceed 5% of the value of the Fund’s total assets and are not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of the Fund’s total assets is invested in, including through corporations in which the Fund owns a 20% or more voting stock interest, the securities of any one issuer (other than those described in clause (i)(A)), the securities (other than securities of other regulated investment companies) of two or more issuers the Fund controls and which are engaged in the same, similar, or related trades or businesses, or the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships.
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In addition, for purposes of meeting this diversification requirement, the term “outstanding voting securities of such issuer” includes the equity securities of a qualified publicly traded partnership and in the case of the Fund’s investments in loan participations, the Fund shall treat both the financial intermediary and the issuer of the underlying loan as an issuer. The qualifying income and diversification requirements described above may limit the extent to which the Fund can engage in certain derivative transactions, as well as the extent to which it can invest in MLPs and certain commodity-linked ETFs.
In addition, the Fund generally must distribute to its shareholders at least 90% of its investment company taxable income for the taxable year, which generally includes its ordinary income and the excess of any net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss, and at least 90% of its net tax-exempt interest income (if any) for the taxable year.
If the Fund qualifies as a regulated investment company that is accorded special tax treatment, it generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on any of the investment company taxable income and net capital gain (i.e., the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss) it distributes to its shareholders. The Fund generally intends to distribute, at least annually, substantially all of its investment company taxable income (computed without regard to the dividends-paid deduction) and its net capital gain. However, no assurance can be given that the Fund will not be subject to U.S. federal income taxation. Any investment company taxable income or net capital gain retained by the Fund will be subject to tax at the corporate rate.
If the Fund retains any net capital gain, it will be subject to a tax at the corporate rate on the amount retained, but may designate the retained amount as undistributed capital gains in a timely notice to its shareholders, who (i) will be required to include in income for U.S. federal income tax purposes, as long-term capital gain, their shares of such undistributed amount, and (ii) will be entitled to credit their proportionate shares of the tax paid by the Fund on such undistributed amount against their U.S. federal income tax liabilities, if any, and to claim refunds to the extent the credit exceeds such liabilities. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the tax basis of shares owned by a shareholder of the Fund will be increased by an amount equal under current law to the difference between the amount of undistributed capital gains included in the shareholder’s gross income under clause (i) of the preceding sentence and the tax deemed paid by the shareholder under clause (ii) of the preceding sentence.
In determining its net capital gain, including in connection with determining the amount available to support a Capital Gain Dividend (as defined below), its taxable income, and its earnings and profits, a regulated investment company generally may elect to treat part or all of any post-October capital loss (defined as any net capital loss attributable to the portion, if any, of the taxable year after October 31 or, if there is no such loss, the net long-term capital loss or net short-term capital loss attributable to such portion, if any, of the taxable year) or late-year ordinary loss (generally, the sum of its (i) net ordinary loss from the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of property, attributable to the portion, if any, of the taxable year after October 31 and its (ii) other net ordinary loss attributable to the portion, if any, of the taxable year after December 31) as if incurred in the succeeding taxable year.
In order to comply with the distribution requirements described above applicable to regulated investment companies, the Fund generally must make the distributions in the same taxable year that it realizes the income and gain, although in certain circumstances, the Fund may make the distributions in the following taxable year in respect of income and gains from the prior taxable year. Shareholders generally are taxed on any distributions from the Fund in the year they are actually distributed. If the Fund declares a distribution to shareholders of record in October, November or December of one calendar year and pays the distribution in January of the following calendar year, however, the Fund and its shareholders will be treated as if the Fund paid the distribution on December 31 of the earlier year.
If the Fund were to fail to meet the income, diversification or distribution tests described above, the Fund could in some cases cure such failure including by paying a fund-level tax or interest, making additional distributions, or disposing of certain assets. If the Fund were ineligible to or otherwise did not cure such failure for any year, or were otherwise to fail to qualify and be eligible for treatment as a regulated investment company accorded special tax treatment under the Code, it would be taxed in the same manner as an ordinary corporation without any deduction for its distributions to shareholders. In this case, all distributions from the Fund’s current and accumulated earnings and profits (including any distributions of its net tax-exempt income and net long-term capital gains) to its shareholders would be taxable to shareholders as dividend income. In addition, the Fund could be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial taxes and interest and make substantial distributions before requalifying as a regulated investment company.
Excise Tax
If the Fund fails to distribute by December 31 of each calendar year at least the sum of 98% of its ordinary income for that year (excluding capital gains and losses) and 98.2% of its capital gain net income (adjusted for net ordinary losses) for the 1-year period ending on October 31 of that year (or November 30 or December 31 of that year if the Fund is permitted to elect and so elects), and any of its ordinary income and capital gain net income from previous years that were not distributed during such years, the Fund will be subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax on the undistributed amounts. For these purposes, ordinary gains and losses from the sale, exchange, or other taxable disposition of property that would be properly taken into account after October 31 of a calendar year (or November 30 if the Fund makes the election described above) are generally treated as arising
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on January 1 of the following calendar year; in the case of a Fund with a December 31 year end that makes the election described above, no such gains or losses will be so treated. For purposes of the excise tax, the Fund will be treated as having distributed any amount on which it has been subject to corporate income tax in the taxable year ending within the calendar year. The Fund generally intends to actually distribute or be deemed to have distributed substantially all of its ordinary income and capital gain net income, if any, by the end of each calendar year and, thus, expects not to be subject to the excise tax. However, no assurance can be given that the Fund will not be subject to the excise tax. Moreover, the Fund reserves the right to pay an excise tax rather than make an additional distribution when circumstances warrant (for example, if the amount of excise tax to be paid is deemed de minimis by the Fund).
Capital Loss Carryovers
Capital losses in excess of capital gains (net capital losses) are not permitted to be deducted against the Fund’s net investment income. Instead, potentially subject to certain limitations, the Fund is able to carry forward a net capital loss from any taxable year to offset its capital gains, if any, realized during a subsequent taxable year.
Capital loss carry forwards are reduced to the extent they offset current-year net realized capital gains, whether the Fund retains or distributes such gains. A Fund may carry net capital losses forward to one or more subsequent taxable years without expiration; any such carryover losses will retain their character as short-term or long-term. The Fund must apply such carryforwards first against gains of the same character.
Capital gains that are offset by carried forward capital losses are not subject to fund-level U.S. federal income taxation, regardless of whether they are distributed to shareholders. Accordingly, the Fund does not expect to distribute any capital gains so offset. The Fund cannot carry back or carry forward any net operating losses (defined as deductions and ordinary losses in excess of ordinary income).
Taxation of Fund Investments
In general, realized gains or losses on the sale of securities held by the Fund will be treated as capital gains or losses, and long-term capital gains or losses if the Fund has held or is deemed to have held the securities for more than one year at the time of disposition.
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, debt securities purchased by the Funds may be treated as having original issue discount (OID) (generally a debt obligation with an issue price less than its stated principal amount, such as a zero-coupon bond), which is generally treated as interest for U.S. federal income tax purposes. If the Fund purchases a debt obligation with OID, which exceeds a de minimis amount, the Fund may be required to annually include in its income a portion of the OID as ordinary income, even though the Fund will not receive cash payments for such discount until maturity or disposition of the obligation, and depending on market conditions and the credit quality of the bond, might not ever receive cash for such discount. OID on tax-exempt bonds is generally not subject to U.S. federal income tax (but may be subject to the U.S. federal alternative minimum tax or "AMT"). Inflation-protected bonds generally can be expected to produce OID income as their principal amounts are adjusted upward for inflation.
Debt securities may be purchased by the Fund at a discount which exceeds the original issue discount remaining on the securities, if any, at the time the Fund purchased the securities. This additional discount represents market discount for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Generally, market discount is accrued on a daily basis. In general, gains recognized on the disposition of (or the receipt of any partial payment of principal on) a debt obligation (including a municipal obligation) purchased by the Fund at a market discount (other than a de minimis market discount), generally at a price less than its principal amount, will be treated as ordinary income to the extent of the portion of market discount which accrued, but was not previously recognized pursuant to an available election, during the term that the Fund held the debt obligation.
The Fund generally will be required to make distributions to shareholders representing the OID or market discount (if an election is made by the Fund to include market discount over the holding period of the applicable debt obligation) on debt securities that is currently includible in income, even though the cash representing such income may not have been received by the Fund, and depending on market conditions and the credit quality of the bond, might not ever be received. Cash to pay such distributions may be obtained from borrowing or from sales proceeds of securities held by the Fund which the Fund otherwise might have continued to hold; obtaining such cash might be disadvantageous for the Fund. In addition, payment-in-kind securities similarly will give rise to income which is required to be distributed and is taxable even though the Fund receives no cash interest payment on the security during the year. A portion of the interest paid or accrued on certain high-yield discount obligations (such as high-yield corporate debt securities) may not (and interest paid on debt obligations owned by the Fund that are considered for tax purposes to be payable in the equity of the issuer or a related party will not) be deductible to the issuer, possibly affecting the cash flow of the issuer.
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If the Fund invests in debt obligations that are in the lowest rating categories or are unrated, including debt obligations of issuers not currently paying interest or who are in default, special tax issues may exist for the Fund. Tax rules are not entirely clear about issues such as: (1) whether the Fund should recognize market discount on a debt obligation and, if so, (2) the amount of market discount the Fund should recognize, (3) when the Fund may cease to accrue interest, OID or market discount, (4) when and to what extent deductions may be taken for bad debts or worthless securities and (5) how payments received on obligations in default should be allocated between principal and income. These and other related issues will be addressed by a Fund when, as and if it invests in such securities, in order to seek to ensure that it distributes sufficient income to preserve its eligibility for treatment as a regulated investment company and does not become subject to U.S. federal income or excise tax.
Very generally, when the Fund purchases a bond at a price that exceeds the redemption price at maturity – that is, at a premium – the premium is amortizable over the remaining term of the bond if the Fund elected to amortize bond premium.
If an option granted by the Fund is sold, lapses or is otherwise terminated through a closing transaction, such as a repurchase by the Fund of the option from its holder, the Fund generally will realize a short-term capital gain or loss, depending on whether the premium income is greater or less than the amount paid by the Fund in the closing transaction, unless the option is subject to Section 1256 of the Code, described below. Some capital losses realized by the Fund in the sale, exchange, exercise or other disposition of an option may be deferred if they result from a position that is part of a “straddle,” discussed below. If securities are sold by the Fund pursuant to the exercise of a covered call option granted by it, the Fund generally will add the premium received to the sale proceeds of the securities delivered in determining the amount of gain or loss on the sale. If securities are purchased by the Fund pursuant to the exercise of a put option granted by it, the Fund generally will subtract the premium received from its cost basis in the securities purchased.
Some regulated futures contracts, foreign currency contracts, and non-equity, listed options that may be used by the Fund will be deemed “Section 1256 contracts.” The Fund will be required to “mark to market” any such contracts held at the end of the taxable year by treating them as if they had been sold on the last day of that year at market value. Sixty percent of any net gain or loss realized on all dispositions of Section 1256 contracts, including deemed dispositions under the “mark-to-market” rule, generally will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss, and the remaining forty percent will be treated as short-term capital gain or loss, although certain foreign currency gains and losses from such contracts may be treated as entirely ordinary income or loss as described below. These provisions may require the Fund to recognize income or gains without a concurrent receipt of cash. Transactions that qualify as designated hedges are exempt from the mark-to-market rule and the “60%/40%” rule and may require the Fund to defer the recognition of losses on certain futures contracts, foreign currency contracts, and non-equity options.
Foreign exchange gains and losses realized by the Fund in connection with certain transactions involving foreign currency-denominated debt securities, certain options, futures contracts, forward contracts and similar instruments relating to foreign currencies, or payables or receivables denominated in a foreign currency are subject to Section 988 of the Code, which generally causes such gains and losses to be treated as ordinary income or loss and may affect the amount and timing of recognition of the Fund’s income. Under future U.S. Treasury Regulations, any such transactions that are not directly related to the Fund’s investments in stock or securities (or its options contracts or futures contracts with respect to stock or securities) may have to be limited in order to enable the Fund to satisfy the 90% qualifying income test described above. If the net foreign exchange loss exceeds the Fund’s net investment company taxable income (computed without regard to such loss) for a taxable year, the resulting ordinary loss for such year will not be available as a carryover and thus cannot be deducted by the Fund or its shareholders in future years.
Offsetting positions held by the Fund involving certain derivative instruments, such as forward, futures and options contracts, may be considered, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, to constitute “straddles.” “Straddles” are defined to include “offsetting positions” in actively traded personal property. The tax treatment of “straddles” is governed by Section 1092 of the Code which, in certain circumstances, overrides or modifies the provisions of Section 1256. If the Fund is treated as entering into a “straddle” and at least one (but not all) of the Fund’s positions in derivative contracts comprising a part of such straddle is governed by Section 1256 of the Code, described above, then such straddle could be characterized as a “mixed straddle.” The Fund may make one or more elections with respect to “mixed straddles.” Depending upon which election is made, if any, the results with respect to the Fund may differ. Generally, to the extent the straddle rules apply to positions established by the Fund, losses realized by the Fund may be deferred to the extent of unrealized gain in any offsetting positions. Moreover, as a result of the straddle rules, short-term capital loss on straddle positions may be recharacterized as long-term capital loss, and long-term capital gain may be characterized as short-term capital gain. In addition, the existence of a straddle may affect the holding period of the offsetting positions. As a result, the straddle rules could cause distributions that would otherwise constitute “qualified dividend income” or qualify for the dividends-received deduction to fail to satisfy the applicable holding period requirements. Furthermore, the Fund may be required to capitalize, rather than deduct currently, any interest expense and carrying charges applicable to a position that is part of a straddle, including any interest on indebtedness incurred or continued to purchase or carry any positions that are part
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of a straddle. The application of the straddle rules to certain offsetting Fund positions can therefore affect the amount, timing, and character of distributions to shareholders, and may result in significant differences from the amount, timing and character of distributions that would have been made by the Fund if it had not entered into offsetting positions in respect of certain of its portfolio securities.
If the Fund enters into a “constructive sale” of any appreciated financial position in stock, a partnership interest, or certain debt instruments, the Fund will be treated as if it had sold and immediately repurchased the property and must recognize gain (but not loss) with respect to that position. A constructive sale of an appreciated financial position occurs when the Fund enters into certain offsetting transactions with respect to the same or substantially identical property, including, but not limited to: (i) a short sale; (ii) an offsetting notional principal contract; (iii) a futures or forward contract; or (iv) other transactions identified in future U.S. Treasury Regulations. The character of the gain from constructive sales will depend upon the Fund’s holding period in the appreciated financial position. Losses realized from a sale of a position that was previously the subject of a constructive sale will be recognized when the position is subsequently disposed of. The character of such losses will depend upon the Fund’s holding period in the position beginning with the date the constructive sale was deemed to have occurred and the application of various loss deferral provisions in the Code. Constructive sale treatment does not apply to certain closed transactions, including if such a transaction is closed on or before the 30th day after the close of the Fund’s taxable year and the Fund holds the appreciated financial position unhedged throughout the 60-day period beginning with the day such transaction was closed.
The amount of long-term capital gain the Fund may recognize from certain derivative transactions with respect to interests in certain pass-through entities is limited under the Code’s constructive ownership rules. The amount of long-term capital gain is limited to the amount of such gain the Fund would have had if the Fund directly invested in the pass-through entity during the term of the derivative contract. Any gain in excess of this amount is treated as ordinary income. An interest charge is imposed on the amount of gain that is treated as ordinary income.
If the Fund makes a distribution of income received by the Fund in lieu of dividends (a “substitute payment”) with respect to securities on loan pursuant to a securities lending transaction, such income will not constitute qualified dividend income to individual shareholders and will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders. Similar consequences may apply to repurchase and other derivative transactions. Similarly, to the extent that a Fund makes distributions of income received by such Fund in lieu of tax-exempt interest with respect to securities on loan, such distributions will not constitute exempt-interest dividends (defined below) to shareholders.
Certain of the Fund’s investments in derivative instruments and foreign currency-denominated instruments, as well as any of its foreign currency transactions and hedging activities, are likely to produce a difference between its book income and its taxable income. If the Fund’s book income exceeds the sum of its taxable income and net tax-exempt income (if any), the distribution (if any) of such excess generally will be treated as (i) a dividend to the extent of the Fund’s remaining earnings and profits (including earnings and profits arising from tax-exempt income), (ii) thereafter, as a return of capital to the extent of the recipient’s basis in its shares, and (iii) thereafter, as gain from the sale or exchange of a capital asset.
Rules governing the U.S. federal income tax aspects of derivatives, including swap agreements, are not entirely clear in certain respects. Accordingly, while the Fund intends to account for such transactions in a manner it deems to be appropriate, an adverse determination or future guidance by the IRS with respect to these rules (which determination or guidance could be retroactive) may affect whether the Fund has made sufficient distributions, and otherwise satisfied the relevant requirements to maintain its qualification as a regulated investment company and avoid fund-level tax. Certain requirements that must be met under the Code in order for the Fund to qualify as a regulated investment company may limit the extent to which the Fund will be able to engage in certain derivatives.
Any investment by the Fund in equity securities of a REIT may result in the Fund’s receipt of cash in excess of the REIT’s earnings; if the Fund distributes these amounts, these distributions could constitute a return of capital to Fund shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Dividends received by the Fund from a REIT generally will not constitute qualified dividend income and will not qualify for the dividends-received deduction. Distributions by the Fund to its shareholders that the Fund properly reports as “section 199A dividends,” as defined and subject to certain conditions described below, are treated as qualified REIT dividends in the hands of non-corporate shareholders. Non-corporate shareholders are permitted a federal income tax deduction equal to 20% of qualified REIT dividends received by them, subject to certain limitations. Very generally, a “section 199A dividend” is any dividend or portion thereof that is attributable to certain dividends received by a regulated investment company from REITs, to the extent such dividends are properly reported as such by the regulated investment company in a written notice to its shareholders. A section 199A dividend is treated as a qualified REIT dividend only if the shareholder receiving such dividend holds the dividend-paying regulated investment company shares for at least 46 days of the 91-day period beginning 45 days before the shares become ex-dividend, and is not under an obligation to make related payments with respect to a position in substantially similar or related property. The Fund is permitted to report such part of its dividends as section 199A dividends as are eligible, but is not required to do so.
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In general, excess inclusion income allocated to shareholders (i) cannot be offset by net operating losses (subject to a limited exception for certain thrift institutions), (ii) will constitute unrelated business taxable income (UBTI) to entities (including a qualified pension plan, an individual retirement account, a 401(k) plan, a Keogh plan or certain other tax-exempt entities) subject to tax on UBTI, thereby potentially requiring such an entity that is allocated excess inclusion income, and otherwise might not be required to file a tax return, to file a tax return and pay tax on such income, and (iii) in the case of a foreign shareholder, will not qualify for any reduction in U.S. federal withholding tax.
“Passive foreign investment companies” (PFICs) are generally defined as foreign corporations where at least 75% of their gross income for their taxable year is income from passive sources (such as certain interest, dividends, rents and royalties, or capital gains) or at least 50% of their assets on average produce or are held for the production of such passive income. If the Fund acquires any equity interest in a PFIC, the Fund could be subject to U.S. federal income tax and interest charges on “excess distributions” received from the PFIC or on gain from the sale of such equity interest in the PFIC, even if all income or gain actually received by the Fund is timely distributed to its shareholders. Excess distributions and gain from the sale of interests in PFICs may be characterized as ordinary income even though, absent the application of PFIC rules, these amounts may otherwise have been classified as capital gain.
The Fund will not be permitted to pass through to its shareholders any credit or deduction for these special taxes and interest charges incurred with respect to a PFIC. Elections may be available that would ameliorate these adverse tax consequences, but such elections would require the Fund to include its share of the PFIC’s income and net capital gains annually, regardless of whether it receives any distribution from the PFIC (in the case of a “QEF election”), or to mark the gains (and to a limited extent losses) in its interests in the PFIC “to the market” as though the Fund had sold and repurchased such interests on the last day of the Fund’s taxable year, treating such gains and losses as ordinary income and loss (in the case of a “mark-to-market election”). The QEF and mark-to-market elections may require the Fund to recognize taxable income or gain without the concurrent receipt of cash and increase the amount required to be distributed by the Fund to avoid taxation. Making either of these elections therefore may require the Fund to liquidate other investments prematurely to meet the minimum distribution requirements described above, which also may accelerate the recognition of gain and adversely affect the Fund’s total return. The Fund may attempt to limit and/or manage its holdings in PFICs to minimize tax liability and/or maximize returns from these investments but there can be no assurance that it will be able to do so. Moreover, because it is not always possible to identify a PFIC, the Fund may incur the tax and interest charges described above in some instances. Dividends paid by a foreign corporation that, for its taxable year in which the dividend is paid or the preceding taxable year, is a PFIC will not be eligible to be treated as qualified dividend income, as defined below.
A U.S. person, including the Fund, who owns (directly or indirectly) 10% or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of a foreign corporation or 10% or more of the total value of shares of all classes of stock of a foreign corporation is a “U.S. Shareholder” for purposes of the controlled foreign corporation (CFC) provisions of the Code. Generally, a CFC is a foreign corporation that is owned (directly, indirectly, or constructively determined by reference to complex ownership attribution rules under the Code) more than 50% (measured by voting power or value) by U.S. Shareholders. If the Fund is a U.S. Shareholder, such Fund will be required to include in gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes all of a CFC’s “subpart F income,” and any "global intangible low-taxed income" ("GILTI"), in each case whether or not such income is actually distributed by the CFC. Subpart F income generally includes net gains from the disposition of stocks or securities, receipts with respect to securities loans, net gains from transactions (including futures, forward, and similar transactions) in commodities, and net payments received with respect to equity swaps and similar derivatives. GILTI generally includes the active operating profits of the CFC, reduced by a deemed return on the tax basis of the CFC's depreciable tangible assets. Subpart F income and GILTI are treated as ordinary income, regardless of the character of the CFC’s underlying income. Net losses incurred by a CFC during a tax year do not flow through to the Fund and thus will not be available to offset income or capital gain generated from the Fund’s other investments. In addition, net losses incurred by a CFC during a tax year generally cannot be carried forward by the CFC to offset gains realized by it in subsequent taxable years.
In addition to the investments described above, prospective shareholders should be aware that other investments made by the Fund may involve complex tax rules that may result in income or gain recognition by the Fund without corresponding current cash receipts. Although the Fund seeks to avoid significant noncash income, such noncash income could be recognized by the Fund, in which case the Fund may distribute cash derived from other sources in order to meet the minimum distribution requirements described above. In this regard, the Fund could be required at times to liquidate investments prematurely in order to satisfy its minimum distribution requirements, which may accelerate the recognition of gain and adversely affect the Fund’s total return.
Taxation of Distributions
Distributions paid out of the Fund’s current and accumulated earnings and profits, whether paid in cash or reinvested in the Fund, generally are deemed to be taxable distributions and must be reported by each shareholder who is required to file a U.S. federal income tax return. Dividends and distributions on the Fund’s shares are generally subject to U.S. federal income tax as
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described herein to the extent they do not exceed the Fund’s realized income and gains, even though such dividends and distributions may economically represent a return of a particular shareholder’s investment. Such distributions are likely to occur in respect of shares purchased at a time when the Fund’s net asset value reflects either unrealized gains, or realized but undistributed income or gains. Such realized income and gains may be required to be distributed even when the Fund’s net asset value also reflects unrealized losses. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Fund’s earnings and profits, described above, are determined at the end of the Fund’s taxable year. Distributions in excess of the Fund’s current and accumulated earnings and profits will first be treated as a return of capital up to the amount of a shareholder’s tax basis in his or her Fund shares and then as capital gain. A return of capital is not taxable, but it reduces a shareholder’s tax basis in his or her Fund shares, thus reducing any loss or increasing any gain on a subsequent taxable disposition by the shareholder of his or her shares. The Fund may pay distributions in excess of earnings and profits.
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, distributions of investment income (except for qualified dividend income, defined below) are generally taxable as ordinary income, and distributions of net gains from the sale of investments that the Fund owned (or is deemed to have owned) for one year or less will be taxable as ordinary income. Distributions properly reported by the Fund as capital gain dividends (Capital Gain Dividends) will be taxable to shareholders as long-term capital gain (to the extent such distributions do not exceed the Fund’s actual net long-term capital gain for the taxable year), regardless of how long a shareholder has held Fund shares, and do not qualify as dividends for purposes of the dividends-received deduction or as qualified dividend income (defined below). The Fund will report Capital Gain Dividends, if any, in written statements furnished to its shareholders. Certain events may require the Fund to sell significant amounts of appreciated securities, and make large Capital Gain Dividends relative to the Fund’s NAV. Such events may include investment-related decisions to sell holdings, portfolio rebalancing or fund mergers. The Fund generally provides estimates of expected Capital Gain Dividends (if any) prior to the distribution on columbiathreadneedleus.com.
Regulations under Section 1061 of the Code provide special rules for certain capital gain dividends paid by regulated investment companies that are specifically designated by the regulated investment company for purposes of Section 1061. The Fund is not required to make such designations for purposes of Section 1061, and generally does not intend to make such designations.
Dividends reported by the Fund as qualified dividend income are generally taxed at long-term capital gain tax rates for individual shareholders. In general, “qualified dividend income” is income attributable to dividends received by a Fund from certain domestic and foreign corporations, as long as certain holding period and other requirements are met by the Fund with respect to the dividend-paying corporation’s stock and by the Fund's shareholders with respect to the Fund’s shares. If 95% or more of a Fund’s gross income (excluding net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss) constitutes qualified dividend income, all of its distributions (other than Capital Gain Dividends) will be generally treated as qualified dividend income in the hands of individual shareholders, as long as they have owned their Fund shares for at least 61 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the Fund’s ex-dividend date (or, in the case of certain preferred stock, 91 days during the 181-day period beginning 90 days before such date) and meet certain other requirements specified in the Code. In general, if less than 95% of a Fund’s gross income is attributable to qualified dividend income, then only the portion of the Fund’s distributions that is attributable to qualified dividend income and reported as such in a timely manner will be so treated in the hands of individual shareholders who meet the aforementioned holding period requirements. The rules regarding the qualification of Fund distributions as qualified dividend income are complex, including the holding period requirements. Individual Fund shareholders therefore are urged to consult their own tax advisors and financial planners.
The IRS currently requires a regulated investment company that the IRS recognizes as having two or more “classes” of stock for U.S. federal income tax purposes to allocate to each such class proportionate amounts of each type of its income (such as ordinary income and capital gains) based upon the percentage of total dividends distributed to each class for the tax year. Accordingly, if the Fund issues one or more series of preferred shares, the Fund will allocate Capital Gain Dividends for each tax year between and among its Shares and each such series of its preferred shares in proportion to the total dividends paid to each class with respect to such tax year. Dividends qualifying for the dividends-received deduction or as qualified dividend income will be allocated between and among Shares and each such series of preferred shares separately from dividends that do not so qualify, in each case in proportion to the total dividends paid to each share class for the Fund's tax year.
The Code generally imposes a 3.8% net investment income tax on certain high-income individuals, trusts and estates. For individuals, the 3.8% tax applies to the lesser of (1) the amount (if any) by which the taxpayer’s modified adjusted gross income exceeds certain threshold amounts or (2) the taxpayer’s “net investment income.” For this purpose, “net investment income” generally includes, among other things, (i) distributions paid by the Fund of net investment income and capital gains as described above, and (ii) any net gain recognized on the sale, redemption or other taxable disposition of Fund shares. Certain details of the implementation of the tax remain subject to future guidance. Shareholders are advised to consult their tax advisors regarding the possible implications of this additional tax on their investment in the Fund.
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As described above, if the Fund invests in REITs, the Fund may report “section 199A dividends” treated as qualified REIT dividends in the hands of non-corporate shareholders, who are permitted a federal income tax deduction equal to 20% of qualified REIT dividends received by them, subject to certain limitations.
Some states will not tax distributions made to individual shareholders that are attributable to interest the Fund earns on direct obligations of the U.S. Government if the Fund meets the state’s minimum investment or reporting requirements, if any. Investments in GNMA or FNMA securities, bankers’ acceptances, commercial paper, and repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government securities generally do not qualify for tax-free treatment. This exemption may not apply to corporate shareholders.
Sales and Dispositions of Fund Shares
Generally, if a shareholder sells his or her Fund shares, he or she generally will realize a taxable capital gain or loss on the difference between the amount received for the shares and his or her tax basis in the shares. This gain or loss will be long-term capital gain or loss if he or she has held (or is deemed to have held) such Fund shares for more than one year at the time of the sale, and short-term capital gain or loss otherwise.
Also, if a shareholder realizes a loss on a disposition of Fund shares, the loss will be disallowed under “wash sale” rules to the extent that he or she purchases (including through the reinvestment of dividends) substantially identical shares within the 61-day period beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the disposition. Any disallowed loss generally will be reflected in an adjustment to the tax basis of the purchased shares. If a shareholder receives a Capital Gain Dividend or is deemed to receive a distribution of long-term capital gain with respect to any Fund share and such Fund share is held or treated as held for six months or less, then (unless otherwise disallowed) any loss on the sale of that Fund share will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of the Capital Gain Dividend or deemed long-term capital gain distribution.
A repurchase by the Fund of a shareholder's shares pursuant to a repurchase offer generally will be treated as a sale or exchange of the shares by a shareholder if the shareholder tenders all of the shares they hold or are deemed to hold, and thus the shareholder generally will realize a capital gain or loss. If a shareholder tenders fewer than all of its shares it holds or is deemed to hold, such shareholder may be treated as having received a distribution under Section 301 of the Code ("Section 301 distribution") unless the repurchase is treated as being either (i) "substantially disproportionate" with respect to such shareholder or (ii) otherwise "not essentially equivalent to a dividend" under the relevant rules of the Code. A Section 301 distribution is not treated as a sale or exchange giving rise to a capital gain or loss, but rather is treated as a dividend to the extent supported by the Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits, with the excess treated as a return of capital reducing the shareholder's tax basis in Fund shares, and thereafter as capital gain. Where a tendering shareholder is treated as receiving a 301 distribution, there is a risk that non-tendering shareholders whose interests in the Fund increase as a result of such tender will be treated as having received a taxable distribution from the Fund.
Cost Basis Reporting
The Fund (or the shareholder’s financial intermediary, if Fund shares are held through a financial intermediary) generally is required to report to shareholders and the IRS gross proceeds on the purchase or sale of Fund shares. In addition, for shares purchased, including shares purchased through dividend reinvestment, on or after January 1, 2012, the Fund generally is required to provide the shareholders and the IRS, upon the purchase or sale of Fund shares, with cost basis information about those shares as well as information about whether any gain or loss is short- or long-term and whether any loss is disallowed under the “wash sale” rules. This reporting is not required for Fund shares held in a retirement or other tax-advantaged account. With respect to Fund shares in accounts held directly with the Fund, the Fund will calculate and report cost basis using the Fund’s default method of average cost, unless the shareholder instructs the Fund to use a different calculation method. A Fund will not report cost basis for shares whose cost basis is uncertain or unknown to the Fund. Please visit the Columbia Funds’ website at columbiathreadneedleus.com or contact the Funds at 866.666.1532 for more information regarding average cost basis reporting and other available methods for cost basis reporting and how to select or change a particular method or to choose specific shares to sell or redeem. The Fund does not recommend any particular method of determining cost basis. The shareholder should consult a tax advisor to determine which available cost basis method is best. When completing U.S. federal and state income tax returns, shareholders should carefully review the cost basis and other information provided and make any additional basis, holding period or other adjustments that may be required.
Backup Withholding
The Fund generally is required to withhold, and remit to the U.S. Treasury, subject to certain exemptions, a percentage of all distributions and redemption proceeds (including proceeds from redemptions in-kind) paid or credited to the Fund shareholder if (1) the shareholder fails to furnish the Fund with a correct “taxpayer identification number” (TIN) or has not certified to the Fund that withholding does not apply or (2) the IRS notifies the Fund that the shareholder’s TIN is incorrect or the shareholder is otherwise subject to backup withholding. This backup withholding is not an additional tax imposed on the shareholder. The
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shareholder may apply amounts required to be withheld as a credit against his or her future U.S. federal income tax liability, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS. If a shareholder fails to furnish a valid TIN upon request, the shareholder can also be subject to IRS penalties.
Tax Consequences of Certain Investments
The use of hedging strategies, such as writing (selling) and purchasing options and futures contracts and entering into forward currency contracts, involves complex rules that will determine for income tax purposes the amount, character and timing of recognition of the gains and losses the Fund realizes in connection therewith. Gains from the disposition of foreign currencies (except certain gains that may be excluded by future regulations), and gains from options, futures and forward currency contracts the Fund derives with respect to its business of investing in securities or foreign currencies, will be treated as qualifying income.
The Fund expects to take the position that the Nasdaq 100 Index call options it sells should be, to the extent that they are exchange listed, treated as “section 1256 contracts” for U.S. federal income tax purposes and will be “marked to market” (i.e., the Nasdaq 100 Index call options will be treated as sold for their fair market value at the end of the Fund’s taxable year). The gain or loss attributable to the Nasdaq 100 Index call options will be treated as 60% long-term and 40% short-term capital gain or loss.
Certain adverse tax consequences could result if the Fund’s ownership of the stock holdings and sale of the Nasdaq 100 Index call options constituted “straddles” (generally, offsetting positions with respect to personal property) under section 1092 of the IRC. If the straddle rules applied to the Fund’s ownership of the stock holdings and sale of the Nasdaq 100 Index call options, such positions would constitute a mixed straddle (i.e., a straddle consisting of section 1256 contract positions (the Nasdaq 100 Index call options) and non-section 1256 contract positions (the stock holdings) that was not identified as a mixed straddle under section 1092 of the IRC). In such case, the straddle rules would defer recognition of realized losses and require the capitalization of certain interest expense and carrying charges. In addition, the modified short sale rules would apply such that any losses attributable to the non-section 1256 contract position would be treated as 60% long-term and 40% short-term capital losses and any gains on such position would constitute short-term capital gain. Accordingly, this treatment would restrict the Fund’s ability to recognize long-term capital gains from a sale or disposition of the stock holdings. Furthermore, dividends, if any, on the stock holdings would not qualify for the lower rate generally applicable to “qualified dividend income.” It is expected, however, that the stock holdings and the Nasdaq 100 Index call options generally will not be considered a straddle because the Fund’s stock holdings (and any subset thereof) and the Nasdaq 100 Index on which it has outstanding option positions are not expected to overlap sufficiently to cause the option to be treated as a straddle. Therefore, the adverse tax consequences described above generally are not expected to apply. However, there can be no assurance that the Fund’s investments will not constitute straddles. Prospective investors should consult their tax advisers regarding the potential application of the straddle provisions to the Fund.
Certain other of the Fund’s investment practices are also subject to special and complex federal income tax provisions that may, among other things, (1) disallow, suspend or otherwise limit the allowance of certain losses or deductions, (2) convert lower taxed long-term capital gain to higher taxed short-term capital gain or ordinary income, (3) convert an ordinary loss or a deduction to a capital loss (the deductibility of which is more limited), (4) cause the Fund to recognize income or gain without a corresponding receipt of cash, (5) adversely affect the timing as to when a purchase or sale of securities is deemed to occur, (6) adversely alter the characterization of certain complex financial transactions and (7) produce income that will not qualify as good income for purposes of the qualifying income requirement for treatment as a regulated investment company. The Fund will monitor its transactions and may make certain tax elections to mitigate the effect of these rules and prevent its disqualification as a regulated investment company.
Tax-Deferred Plans
The shares of the Fund may be available for a variety of tax-deferred retirement and other tax-advantaged plans and accounts. Prospective investors should contact their tax advisors and financial planners regarding the tax consequences to them of holding Fund shares through such plans and/or accounts.
Corporate Shareholders
Subject to limitations and other rules, a corporate shareholder of the Fund may be eligible for the dividends-received deduction on Fund distributions attributable to dividends received by the Fund from domestic corporations, which, if received directly by the corporate shareholder, would qualify for such a deduction. For eligible corporate shareholders, the dividends-received deduction may be subject to certain reductions, and a distribution by the Fund attributable to dividends of a domestic corporation will be eligible for the deduction only if certain holding period and other requirements are met. These requirements are complex; therefore, corporate shareholders of the Funds are urged to consult their own tax advisors and financial planners.
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Foreign Shareholders
For purposes of this discussion, “foreign shareholders” generally include: (i) nonresident alien individuals, (ii) foreign trusts (i.e., a trust other than a trust with respect to which a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over administration of that trust and one or more U.S. persons have authority to control substantial decisions of that trust), (iii) foreign estates (i.e., the income of which is not subject to U.S. tax regardless of source), and (iv) foreign corporations.
Distributions by a Fund made to foreign shareholders that are not “U.S. persons” within the meaning of the Code properly reported by a Fund as (1) Capital Gain Dividends, (2) short-term capital gain dividends, or (3) interest-related dividends, each as defined above or below, generally are not subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax. In general, the Code defines (1) “short-term capital gain dividends” as distributions of net short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term capital losses and (2) “interest-related dividends” as distributions from U.S. source interest income of types similar to those not subject to U.S. federal income tax if earned directly by an individual foreign shareholder, in each case to the extent such distributions are properly reported as such by the Fund in a written notice to shareholders. The exceptions to withholding for Capital Gain Dividends and short-term capital gain dividends do not apply to (A) distributions to an individual foreign shareholder who is present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the year of the distribution and (B) distributions attributable to gain that is treated as effectively connected with the conduct by the foreign shareholder of a trade or business within the United States under special rules regarding the disposition of U.S. real property interests as described below. The exception to withholding for interest-related dividends does not apply to distributions to a foreign shareholder (A) that has not provided a satisfactory statement that the beneficial owner is not a U.S. person, (B) to the extent that the dividend is attributable to certain interest on an obligation if the foreign shareholder is the issuer or is a 10% shareholder of the issuer, (C) that is within certain foreign countries that have inadequate information exchange with the United States, or (D) to the extent the dividend is attributable to interest paid by a person that is a related person of the foreign shareholder and the foreign shareholder is a controlled foreign corporation.
If the Fund invests in a RIC that pays Capital Gain Dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, exempt-interest dividends, or interest-related dividends to the Fund, such distributions retain their character as not subject to withholding if properly reported when paid by the Fund to foreign shareholders (provided, in the case of exempt-interest dividends, that the Fund and the underlying RIC meet certain requirements).
A Fund is permitted to report such part of its dividends as interest-related and/or short-term capital gain dividends as are eligible, but is not required to do so. In the case of shares held through an intermediary, the intermediary may withhold even if a Fund reports all or a portion of a payment as a short-term capital gain or interest-related dividend. Foreign shareholders should contact their intermediaries regarding the application of these rules to their accounts.
Distributions by a Fund to foreign shareholders other than Capital Gain Dividends, short-term capital gain dividends, exempt-interest dividends, and interest-related dividends (e.g., dividends attributable to foreign-source dividend and interest income, or to short-term capital gains or U.S. source interest income to which the exception from withholding description above does not apply) are generally subject to U.S. federal income tax withheld at a rate of 30% (or lower applicable treaty rate).
In general, a foreign shareholder is not subject to U.S. federal income tax and withholding on gains (and is not allowed a deduction for losses) realized on the disposition of shares of a Fund unless: (i) such gain is effectively connected with the conduct by the foreign shareholder of a trade or business within the United States, (ii) in the case of a foreign shareholder that is an individual, the shareholder is present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the year of disposition and certain other conditions are met, or (iii) the special rules relating to gain attributable to the sale or exchange of “U.S. real property interests” (USRPIs) apply to the foreign shareholder’s sale of shares of the Fund (as described below).
Special rules apply if a Fund were a qualified investment entity (QIE) because it is either a “U.S. real property holding corporation” (USRPHC) or would be a USRPHC but for the operation of certain exceptions to the definition of USRPIs described below.
Generally, a USRPHC is a domestic corporation that holds USRPIs the fair market value of which equals or exceeds 50% of the sum of the fair market values of the corporation’s USRPIs, interests in real property located outside the United States and other trade or business assets.
USRPIs are generally defined as any interest in U.S. real property and any interest (other than solely as a creditor) in a USRPHC or, very generally, an entity that has been a USRPHC in the last five years. A Fund that holds, directly or indirectly, significant interests in REITs, may be a USRPHC. Interests in: (i) domestically controlled QIEs, including REITs and RICs that are QIEs, (ii) not-greater-than 10% interests in publicly traded classes of stock in REITs, and (iii) not-greater-than-5% interests in publicly traded classes of stock in RICs, generally are not USRPIs, but these exceptions do not apply for purposes of determining whether a Fund is a QIE.
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If an interest in the Fund were a USRPI, the Fund would be required to withhold U.S. tax on the proceeds of a share redemption by a greater-than-5% foreign shareholder, in which case such foreign shareholder generally would also be required to file U.S. tax returns and pay any additional taxes due in connection with the redemption.
Moreover, if a Fund were a USRPHC or, very generally, had been one in the last five years, it would be required to withhold on amounts distributed to a greater-than-5% foreign shareholder to the extent such amounts would not be treated as a dividend, i.e., are in excess of the Fund’s current and accumulated “earnings and profits” for the applicable tax year. Such withholding generally is not required if the Fund is a domestically controlled QIE.
If a Fund is a QIE, under a special “look through” rule, any distributions by the Fund to a greater-than-5% foreign shareholder (including, in certain cases, distributions made by the Fund in redemption of its shares) that are attributable directly or indirectly to (i) distributions received by the Fund from a lower-tier RIC or REIT that the Fund is required to treat as USRPI gain in its hands and (ii) gains realized on the disposition of USRPIs by the Fund will retain their character as gains realized from USRPIs in the hands of the Fund’s foreign shareholders and will be subject to U.S. tax withholding. In addition, such distributions could result in the foreign shareholder being required to file a U.S. income tax return and pay tax on the distributions at regular U.S. federal income tax rates. The consequences to a foreign shareholder, including the rate of such withholding and character of such distributions (e.g., as ordinary income or USRPI gain), would vary depending upon the extent of the foreign shareholder’s current and past ownership of a Fund. For purposes of this “look through” rule, beginning with the 2021 taxable year, the Fund is required to report Fund distributions attributable to USRPI from the Fund’s investments in REITs on forms 1099-DIV.
Foreign shareholders of a Fund may also be subject to “wash sale” rules to prevent the avoidance of the foregoing tax-filing and payment obligations discussed above through the sale and repurchase of Fund shares.
Foreign shareholders should consult their tax advisors and, if holding shares through intermediaries, their intermediaries, concerning the application of these rules to their investment in a Fund.
Foreign shareholders with respect to whom income from a Fund is effectively connected with a trade or business conducted by the foreign shareholder within the United States will in general be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the income derived from the Fund at the graduated rates applicable to U.S. citizens, residents or domestic corporations, whether such income is received in cash or reinvested in shares of a Fund and, in the case of a foreign corporation, may also be subject to a branch profits tax. If a foreign shareholder is eligible for the benefits of a tax treaty, any effectively connected income or gain will generally be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net basis only if it is also attributable to a permanent establishment maintained by the shareholder in the United States. More generally, foreign shareholders who are residents in a country with an income tax treaty with the United States may obtain different tax results than those described herein, and are urged to consult their tax advisors.
In order to qualify for any exemptions from withholding described above or for lower withholding tax rates under income tax treaties, or to establish an exemption from backup withholding, a foreign shareholder must comply with applicable certification requirements relating to its foreign status (including, in general, furnishing an IRS Form W-8BEN, W-8BEN-E or substitute form). Foreign shareholders should consult their tax advisors in this regard.
Special rules (including withholding and reporting requirements) apply to foreign partnerships and those holding Fund shares through foreign partnerships. In addition, additional considerations may apply to foreign trusts and foreign estates. Investors holding Fund shares through foreign entities should consult their tax advisors about their particular situation.
A beneficial holder of shares who is a foreign person may be subject to state and local tax and to the U.S. federal estate tax in addition to the U.S. federal income tax referred to above.
Tax-Exempt Shareholders
The Fund serves to “block” (that is, prevent the attribution to shareholders of) UBTI from being realized by tax-exempt shareholders. Notwithstanding this “blocking” effect, a tax-exempt shareholder could realize UBTI by virtue of its investment in the Fund if shares in the Fund constitute debt-financed property in the hands of the tax-exempt shareholder within the meaning of Section 514(b) of the Code. For tax years beginning after 2017, entities subject to UBTI are required to calculate UBTI separately for each unrelated trade or business, which may limit their ability to offset gains and losses from multiple unrelated trades or businesses.
It is possible that a tax-exempt shareholder will also recognize UBTI if the Fund recognizes excess inclusion income (as described above) derived from direct or indirect investments in residual interests in real estate mortgage investment conduits (REMICs) or equity interests in taxable mortgage pools (TMPs). Furthermore, any investment in residual interests of a collateralized mortgage obligation (CMO) that has elected to be treated as a REMIC can create complex tax consequences, especially if the Fund has state or local governments or other tax-exempt organizations as shareholders.
In addition, special tax consequences apply to charitable remainder trusts (CRTs) that invest in regulated investment companies that invest directly or indirectly in residual interests in REMICs or equity interests in TMPs. Under legislation enacted in December 2006, a CRT, as defined in Section 664 of the Code, that realizes UBTI for a taxable year must pay an excise tax
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annually of an amount equal to such UBTI. Under IRS guidance issued in October 2006, a CRT will not recognize UBTI solely as a result of investing in the Fund to the extent that it recognizes excess inclusion income. Rather, if at any time during any taxable year a CRT (or one of certain other tax-exempt shareholders, such as the United States, a state or political subdivision, or an agency or instrumentality thereof, and certain energy cooperatives) is a record holder of a share in the Fund and the Fund recognizes excess inclusion income, then the Fund will be subject to a tax on that portion of its excess inclusion income for the taxable year that is allocable to such shareholders at the highest U.S. federal corporate income tax rate. The extent to which the IRS guidance remains applicable in light of the December 2006 legislation is unclear. To the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the Fund may elect to specially allocate any such tax to the applicable CRT, or other shareholder, and thus reduce such shareholder’s distributions for the year by the amount of the tax that relates to such shareholder’s interest in the Fund. The Fund has not yet determined whether such an election will be made. CRTs are urged to consult their tax advisors concerning the consequences of investing in the Fund.
Shareholder Reporting Obligations With Respect to Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts
Shareholders that are U.S. persons and own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the Fund could be required to report annually their “financial interest” in the Fund’s “foreign financial accounts,” if any, on FinCEN Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR). Shareholders should consult a tax advisor, and persons investing in the Fund through an intermediary should contact their intermediary, regarding the applicability to them of this reporting requirement.
Other Reporting and Withholding Requirements
Sections 1471-1474 of the Code, and the U.S. Treasury Regulations and IRS guidance issued thereunder (collectively, FATCA), generally require the Fund to obtain information sufficient to identify the status of each of its shareholders under FATCA or under an applicable intergovernmental agreement (an IGA) between the United States and a foreign government, as described more fully below. If a shareholder of a Fund fails to provide the requested information or otherwise fails to comply with FATCA or an IGA, the Fund is generally required to withhold under FATCA at a rate of 30% with respect to that shareholder on ordinary dividends it pays. The IRS and the Department of Treasury have issued proposed regulations providing that these withholding rules will not apply to the gross proceeds of share redemptions or Capital Gain Dividends the Fund pays. If a payment by the Fund is subject to FATCA withholding, the Fund is required to withhold even if such payment would otherwise be exempt from withholding under the rules applicable to foreign shareholders described above (e.g., short-term capital gain dividends and interest-related dividends).
Payments to a shareholder will generally not be subject to FATCA withholding, provided the shareholder provides the Fund with such certifications, waivers or other documentation or information as the Fund requires, including, to the extent required, with regard to such shareholder’s direct and indirect owners, to establish the shareholder’s FATCA status and otherwise to comply with these rules. In order to avoid withholding, a shareholder that is a “foreign financial institution” (FFI) must either (i) become a “participating FFI” by entering into a valid U.S. tax compliance agreement with the IRS, (ii) qualify for an exception from the requirement to enter into such an agreement, for example by becoming a “deemed-compliant FFI,” or (iii) be covered by an applicable IGA between the United States and a non-U.S. government to implement FATCA and improve international tax compliance. In any of these cases, the investing FFI generally will be required to provide its Fund with appropriate identifiers, certifications or documentation concerning its status.
The Fund may disclose the information that it receives from (or concerning) its shareholders to the IRS, non-U.S. taxing authorities or other parties as necessary to comply with applicable IGAs or other applicable law or regulation.
Prospective investors are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the applicability of FATCA and any other reporting requirements with respect to the prospective investor’s own situation, including investments through an intermediary.
Tax Shelter Reporting Regulations
Under U.S. Treasury Regulations, if a shareholder recognizes a loss of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate shareholder, the shareholder must file with the IRS a disclosure statement on IRS Form 8886. Direct holders of portfolio securities are in many cases excepted from this reporting requirement, but under current guidance, shareholders of a regulated investment company are not excepted. Future guidance may extend the current exception from this reporting requirement to shareholders of most or all regulated investment companies. The fact that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of whether the taxpayer’s treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should consult with their tax advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual circumstances.
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CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES
As of September 30, 2024, holders of record of the Fund’s Common Stock totaled 74.
Management Ownership
As of September 30, 2024, the Directors and officers of the Fund, as a group, owned less than 1% of the Fund’s Common Stock.
Control Persons and Principal Holders
The table below identifies the names, address and ownership percentage of each person who owns of record or is known by the Fund to own beneficially 5% or more of any class of the Fund’s outstanding equity securities (Principal Holders) or 25% or more of the Fund’s outstanding shares (Control Persons). A stockholder who beneficially owns more than 25% of a registered investment company is presumed to “control” the company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act, and may have a significant impact on matters submitted to a shareholder vote. A stockholder who beneficially owns more than 50% the Fund’s outstanding shares may be able to approve proposals, or prevent approval of proposals, without regard to votes by other stockholders. Additional information about Control Persons and Principal Holders, if any, is provided in the following table.
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INFORMATION REGARDING PENDING AND SETTLED LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Ameriprise Financial and certain of its affiliates are involved, in the normal course of business, in legal proceedings that include regulatory inquiries, arbitration and litigation (including class actions) concerning matters arising in connection with the conduct of their activities as part of a diversified financial services firm. Ameriprise Financial believes that the Funds are not currently the subject of, and that neither Ameriprise Financial nor any of its affiliates are the subject of, any pending legal, arbitration or regulatory proceedings that are likely to have a material adverse effect on the Funds or the ability of Ameriprise Financial or its affiliates to perform under their contracts with the Funds. Ameriprise Financial is required to make quarterly (10-Q), annual (10-K) and, as necessary, 8-K filings with the SEC on legal and regulatory matters that relate to Ameriprise Financial and its affiliates. Copies of these filings may be obtained by accessing the SEC website at www.sec.gov.
There can be no assurance that these matters, or the adverse publicity associated with them, will not result in increased Fund redemptions, reduced sale of Fund shares or other adverse consequences to the Funds. Further, although we believe proceedings are not likely to have a material adverse effect on the Funds or the ability of Ameriprise Financial or its affiliates to perform under their contracts with the Funds, these proceedings are subject to uncertainties and, as such, we are unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss that may result. An adverse outcome in one or more of these proceedings could result in adverse judgments, settlements, fines, penalties or other relief that could have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial condition or results of operations of Ameriprise Financial or one or more of its affiliates that provide services to the Funds.
NO PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS NOT CONTAINED IN THE PROSPECTUS OR IN THIS STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, WHICH THE PROSPECTUS INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE, IN CONNECTION WITH THE OFFERING MADE BY THE PROSPECTUS AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR PRESENTATIONS MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE TRUST(S). THIS STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFERING BY THE TRUST(S) IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH AN OFFERING MAY NOT LAWFULLY BE MADE.
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Other Information
Certain Provisions of the Fund’s Charter and Bylaws
Certain provisions of the Fund’s charter, including those relating to the election of directors, classification of the Board, removal of directors, the Fund’s ability to engage in certain extraordinary transactions, amendments to the Fund’s charter and Bylaws, quorum and notice of director nominations and new business are described in the Prospectus. The descriptions below are intended to supplement the disclosure in the Prospectus and, together with the descriptions in the Prospectus, are intended only as a summary of the Fund’s charter and Bylaws and Maryland law.
Anti-Takeover Provisions
The Fund’s charter includes provisions that could limit the ability of other entities or persons to acquire control of the Fund, to cause it to engage in certain transactions or to modify its structure.
Under Maryland law, a Maryland corporation such as the Fund generally cannot dissolve, amend its charter, merge, sell all or substantially all of its assets, convert into another form of entity, engage in a share exchange or engage in similar transactions outside the ordinary course of business, unless declared advisable by the Board and approved by the affirmative vote of stockholders entitled to cast at least two-thirds of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. A Maryland corporation may, however, provide in its charter for approval of these matters by a different percentage, but not less than a majority of all of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter. Subject to certain exceptions described below, any such action will be effective and valid if declared advisable by the Board and approved by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the votes entitled to be cast on the matter.
The Fund’s charter provides that the liquidation or dissolution of the Fund, any merger, consolidation, share exchange or sale or exchange of all or substantially all of the assets of the Fund that requires the approval of the Fund’s stockholders under the Maryland General Corporation Law (“MGCL”), certain transactions between the Fund and any person or group of persons acting together and any person controlling, controlled by or under common control with any such person or member of such group, that may exercise or direct the exercise of 10% or more of the voting power of the Fund (an “Interested Transaction”), any amendment to the Fund’s charter that would convert the Fund from a closed-end investment company to an open end investment company or otherwise make the Fund’s Common Shares a redeemable security and any amendment to certain provisions of the Fund’s charter, including the provisions relating to the Fund’s business as a closed-end management investment company and the number, qualifications, classification, election and removal of directors, and the vote required to amend such provisions, requires the approval of the stockholders entitled to cast at least 80% of the votes entitled to be cast on such matter. If such a proposal is approved by at least two-thirds of the Fund’s Continuing Directors (in addition to approval by the full Board of Directors), however, such proposal may be approved by the stockholders entitled to cast a majority of the votes entitled to be cast on such matter, provided, that, with respect to any Interested Transaction, no stockholder approval is required if such transaction is approved by at least two-thirds of the Fund’s Continuing Directors, unless the MGCL requires such approval. The “Continuing Directors” are defined in the Fund’s charter as (i) the directors identified in the Fund’s charter, (ii) those directors whose nomination for election by the stockholders or whose election by the directors to fill vacancies is approved by a majority of the directors identified in the Fund’s charter and (iii) any successor directors whose nomination for election by the stockholders or whose election by the directors to fill vacancies is approved by a majority of the Continuing Directors then in office. This provision could make it more difficult for certain extraordinary transactions to be approved if they are opposed by the Continuing Directors, and discourage proxy contests for control of the Fund’s Board by persons wishing to cause such transactions to take place.
The Fund’s charter and Bylaws provide that the Board of Directors will have the exclusive power to adopt, alter or repeal any provision of the Fund’s Bylaws or to make new Bylaws.
Number of Directors; Vacancies
Together, the Fund’s charter and Bylaws provide that the number of the Fund’s directors may be established only by the Fund’s Board but may not be fewer than one (as required under Maryland law) nor, unless the Bylaws are amended, more than 20. The Fund’s charter provides that, subject to any applicable requirements of the 1940 Act and except as may be provided by the Fund’s Board in setting the terms of any class or series of preferred stock, the Fund is subject to the provision of Subtitle 8 of Title 3 of the MGCL regarding the filling of vacancies on the Board and, as a result, any and all vacancies on the Board may be filled only by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining Directors in office, even if the remaining Directors do not constitute a quorum, and any Director elected to fill a vacancy will serve for the remainder of the full term of the directorship in which the vacancy occurred and until a successor is duly elected and qualifies.
Calling of Special Meetings of Stockholders
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The Fund’s Bylaws provide that special meetings of stockholders may be called by the Fund’s Board and certain officers. The Bylaws also provide that, subject to the satisfaction of certain procedural and informational requirements by the stockholders requesting the meeting, a special meeting of stockholders will be called by the Secretary of the Fund upon the written request of stockholders entitled to cast not less than a majority of all the votes entitled to be cast at such meeting.
Forum Selection. The Fund’s Bylaws provide that the sole and exclusive forums for any stockholder (including a beneficial owner of shares) to bring (i) any action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Fund, (ii) any action asserting a claim for breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer or employee, if any, of the Fund to the Fund or the Fund’s stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim against the Fund or any of its directors, officers or employees, if any, arising pursuant to any provision of the statutory or common law of the State of Maryland or any federal securities law, in each case as amended from time to time, or the Fund’s charter or Bylaws, or (iv) any action asserting a claim against the Fund, its directors, officers or employees, if any, governed by the internal affairs doctrine shall be the federal or state courts sitting within the State of Maryland.
While the applicability of forum selection clauses to claims brought under federal securities law may be subject to challenge as a general matter, including pursuant to Section 44 under the 1940 Act which generally provides that federal courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction for any suits or actions brought to enforce any liability or duty created under the 1940 Act, the forum selection provision included in the Bylaws will likely make it more difficult for a stockholder to successfully pursue litigation against the Fund or those covered by the forum selection provision in another jurisdiction, including one that may be more favorable to such stockholder. If a court were to find the forum selection provision contained in the Bylaws to be inapplicable or unenforceable in an action, the Fund may incur additional costs associated with resolving such action in other jurisdictions.
This provision in the Bylaws regarding forum selection will not apply to claims brought under the U.S. federal securities laws to the extent that any such federal securities laws, rules or regulations, do not permit such application.
Derivative and Direct Claims of Stockholders. The Bylaws contain provisions regarding derivative and direct claims of stockholders. The Bylaws define a “direct” stockholder claim as (i) a claim based upon alleged violations of a stockholder’s individual rights independent of any harm to the Fund, including a stockholder’s voting rights under the Bylaws; rights to receive a dividend payment as may be declared from time to time, rights to inspect books and records, or other similar rights personal to the stockholder and independent of any harm to the Fund, and (ii) a claim for which an action is provided under the federal securities laws or by state statute. The Bylaws define any other claim asserted by a stockholder, including without limitation any claims purporting to be brought on behalf of the Fund or involving any alleged harm to the Fund, as a “derivative” claim.
The Bylaws state that a stockholder may not bring or maintain any court action or other proceeding asserting a direct claim against the Fund, the directors, or officers if it constitutes a “derivative” claim as defined in the Bylaws. The Bylaws state that a stockholder may not bring or maintain any court action or other proceeding asserting a derivative claim or any claim asserted on behalf of the Fund or involving any alleged harm to the Fund without first making demand on the directors requesting the directors to bring or maintain such action, proceeding or claim. The Bylaws further state that demand shall not be excused under any circumstances, including claims of alleged interest on the part of the directors, unless the stockholder makes a specific showing that irreparable nonmonetary injury to the Fund would otherwise result.
The Bylaws provide that the directors shall consider any demand or request within 90 days of its receipt by the Fund or inform claimants within such time that further review and consideration is required, in which case the directors shall have an additional 120 days to respond. The Bylaws further provide that the directors may submit the matter to a vote of stockholders of the Fund or of any series or class of shares, as appropriate, in their sole discretion. The Bylaws state that any decision by the directors to bring, maintain or settle (or not to bring, maintain or settle) such court action, proceeding or claim, or to submit the matter to a vote of stockholders, shall be binding upon the stockholders; provided, however, that such decision by the directors does not apply to claims arising under the federal securities laws.
These provisions may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim against the directors, officers or other employees of the Fund and/or its service providers.
Limitation of Liability and Indemnification
Maryland law permits a Maryland corporation to include in its charter a provision eliminating the liability of its directors and officers to the corporation and its stockholders for money damages except for liability resulting from (a) actual receipt of an improper benefit or profit in money, property or services or (b) active and deliberate dishonesty that is established by a final judgment and is material to the cause of action. The Fund’s charter contains such a provision which eliminates directors’ and officers’ liability to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law, subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act.
The Fund’s charter authorizes it, to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law, to obligate the Fund, and the Fund’s Bylaws so obligate the Fund, to indemnify any present or former Director or officer or any individual who, while a Director or officer of the Fund and at the request of the Fund, serves or has served another corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise as a director, officer, partner or trustee and who is made, or threatened to be made, a party to the proceeding by reason of his or her service in that capacity, from and against any claim or liability to
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which that individual may become subject or which that individual may incur by reason of his or her service in that capacity and to pay or reimburse his or her reasonable expenses in advance of final disposition of a proceeding. The Fund’s charter and Bylaws also permit the Fund to indemnify and advance expenses to any individual who served a predecessor of the Fund in any of the capacities described above and any employee or agent of the Fund or a predecessor of the Fund. In accordance with the 1940 Act, the Fund will not indemnify any person for any liability to which such person would be subject by reason of such person’s willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
Maryland law requires a corporation (unless its charter provides otherwise, which the Fund’s charter does not) to indemnify a director or officer who has been successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of any proceeding to which he or she is made, or threatened to be made, a party by reason of his or her service in that capacity. Maryland law permits a corporation to indemnify its present and former directors and officers, among others, against judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and reasonable expenses actually incurred by them in connection with any proceeding to which they may be made, or threatened to be made, a party by reason of their service in those or other capacities unless it is established that (a) the act or omission of the director or officer was material to the matter giving rise to the proceeding and (i) was committed in bad faith or (ii) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty, (b) the director or officer actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (c) in the case of any criminal proceeding, the director or officer had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful. However, under Maryland law, a Maryland corporation may not indemnify for an adverse judgment in a suit by or in the right of the corporation or for a judgment of liability on the basis that personal benefit was improperly received, unless in either case a court orders indemnification and then only for expenses. In addition, Maryland law permits a corporation to advance reasonable expenses to a director or officer upon the corporation’s receipt of (a) a written affirmation by the director or officer of his or her good faith belief that he or she has met the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification by the corporation and (b) a written undertaking by him or her or on his or her behalf to repay the amount paid or reimbursed by the corporation if it is ultimately determined that the standard of conduct was not met.
Reference should be made to the Fund’s charter on file with the SEC for the full text of these provisions.
Repurchase of Common Shares; Tender Offers; Conversion to Open-End Fund
The Fund is a closed-end management investment company and as such its stockholders will not have the right to cause the Fund to redeem their shares. Instead, the Fund’s Common Shares will trade in the open market at a price that will be a function of several factors, including dividend levels (which in turn are affected by expenses), NAV, call protection, price, dividend stability, relative demand for and supply of such shares in the market, general market and economic conditions and other factors. Shares of a closed-end management investment company may frequently trade at prices lower than NAV (i.e., at a discount). The Fund’s Board regularly monitors the relationship between the market price and NAV of the Common Shares. If the Common Shares were to trade at a substantial discount to NAV for an extended period of time, the Fund’s Board may consider the repurchase of its Common Shares on the open market or in private transactions, or the making of a tender offer for such shares, or the conversion of the Fund to an open-end management investment company (or mutual fund). There can be no assurance, however, that the Board will decide to take or propose any of these actions, or that share repurchases or tender offers, if undertaken, will actually reduce market discount.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, if at any time Preferred Shares are outstanding, the Fund may not purchase or otherwise acquire any of its Common Shares unless: (1) all accrued dividends on Preferred Shares have been paid and (2) at the time of such purchase or acquisition, the NAV of the Fund’s portfolio (determined after deducting the acquisition price of the Common Shares) is at least 200% of the liquidation value of the outstanding Preferred Shares (expected to equal the original purchase price per share plus any accrued and unpaid dividends thereon).
Subject to its investment limitations, the Fund may borrow to finance the repurchase of its Common Shares or to make a tender offer. Interest on any borrowings to finance share repurchase transactions or the accumulation of cash by the Fund in anticipation of share repurchases or tender offers will reduce the Fund’s net income. Any share repurchase, tender offer or borrowing that might be approved by the Fund’s Board would have to comply with the 1934 Act and the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.
The Fund’s Board may also from time to time consider submitting to the holders of the shares of stock of the Fund a proposal to convert the Fund to an open-end management investment company. In determining whether to exercise its sole discretion to submit this issue to stockholders, the Fund’s Board would consider all factors then relevant, including but not limited to the relationship of the market price of the Common Shares to its NAV, the extent to which the Fund’s capital structure is leveraged and the possibility of re-leveraging, the spread, if any, between the yields on securities in the Fund’s portfolio and interest and dividend charges on Preferred Shares issued by the Fund, if any, and general market and economic conditions.
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See “Anti-Takeover and Other Provisions of the Maryland General Corporation Law and the Fund’s Charter and Bylaws” in the Prospectus and “Certain Provisions of the Fund’s Charter and Bylaws” in this SAI for a discussion of voting requirements applicable to conversion of the Fund to an open-end management investment company. If the Fund converted to an open-end management investment company, it would be required to redeem all Preferred Shares then outstanding, if any, and the Fund’s Common Shares would be de-listed from the New York Stock Exchange. Holders of common stock of an open-end management investment company may require the company to redeem their shares on any Business Day (except in certain circumstances as authorized by or under the 1940 Act) at their NAV, less such redemption charge, if any, as might be in effect at the time of redemption. In order to avoid maintaining large cash positions or liquidating favorable investments to meet redemptions, open-end management investment companies typically engage in a continuous offering of their common stock. These companies are thus subject to periodic asset in-flows and out-flows that can complicate portfolio management. The Fund’s policies and features, however, have been designed to suit a closed-end structure. Investors should assume, therefore, that it is highly unlikely that the Fund would convert to an open-end management investment company.
The repurchase by the Fund of its Common Shares at prices below its NAV will result in an increase in the NAV of those shares that remain outstanding. However, there can be no assurance that share repurchases or tender offers at or below NAV will result in the Fund’s Common Shares trading at a price equal to their NAV. Nevertheless, the fact that the Fund’s Common Shares may be the subject of repurchase or tender offers at NAV from time to time, or that the Fund may be converted to a mutual fund, may reduce any spread between market price and NAV that might otherwise exist.
In addition, a purchase by the Fund of its Common Shares will decrease the Fund’s total assets. This would likely have the effect of increasing the Fund’s expenses, which are borne by the Fund’s Common Stockholders. Any purchase by the Fund of its Common Shares at a time when Preferred Shares are outstanding will increase the leverage applicable to the outstanding Common Shares then remaining. See the Fund’s Prospectus under “Principal Risks—Leverage Risk.”
Before deciding whether to take any action if the Fund’s Common Shares trade below NAV, the Fund’s Board would consider all relevant factors, including the extent and duration of the discount, the liquidity of the Fund’s portfolio, the impact of any action that might be taken on the Fund or its stockholders and market considerations. Based on these and other considerations, even if the Fund’s Common Shares should trade at a discount, the Board may determine that, in the interest of the Fund and its stockholders, no action should be taken.
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on Form N-2 of Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. of our report dated February 22, 2024, relating to the financial statements and financial highlights, which appears in Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form N-CSR for the year ended December 31, 2023. We also consent to the references to us under the headings “Financial Highlights and Investment Performance”, “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm”, and “Legal Opinions and Experts” in such Registration Statement.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
October 30, 2024
Minneapolis, Minnesota
October 30, 2024
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Incorporation by Reference
As noted above, this SAI is part of a registration statement filed with the SEC. The Fund is permitted to “incorporate by reference” the information filed with the SEC, which means that the Fund can disclose important information to you by referring you to those documents. The information incorporated by reference is considered to be part of this SAI.
Any statement in a document incorporated by reference into this SAI will be deemed to be automatically modified or superseded to the extent a statement contained in this SAI or any other subsequently filed document that is incorporated by reference into this SAI modifies or supersedes such statement.
Any statement in a document incorporated by reference into this SAI will be deemed to be automatically modified or superseded to the extent a statement contained in this SAI or any other subsequently filed document that is incorporated by reference into this SAI modifies or supersedes such statement.
The documents listed below, and any reports and other documents subsequently filed with the SEC pursuant to Rule 30(b)(2) under the 1940 Act and Sections 13(a), 13(c), 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, prior to the termination of the offering will be incorporated by reference into the Fund’s registration statement and deemed to be part of it from the date of the filing of such reports and documents:
■
the Fund’s prospectus, dated November 15, 2024, filed with this SAI;
■
■
the description of the Fund’s Common Shares contained in its Registration Statement on Form N-8A filed with the SEC on September 4, 2009, including any amendment or report filed for the purpose of updating such description prior to the termination of the offering registered hereby;
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the Fund’s definitive Proxy Statement, dated April 22, 2024, filed with the SEC on April 22, 2024; and
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the Fund’s Forms 8-K, filed on February 9, 2024, March 14, 2024, May 3, 2024, June 25, 2024, and August 9, 2024.
You may obtain copies of any information incorporated by reference into this SAI, at no charge, by at 866.666.1532 or by writing to Equiniti Trust Company, LLC (the Transfer Agent), at P.O. Box 500, Newark, NJ 07101. The Fund’s periodic reports filed pursuant to Section 30(b)(2) of the 1940 Act and Sections 13 and 15(d) of the Exchange Act, as well as the Prospectus and the Statement of Additional Information, are available on the Fund’s website www.columbiathreadneedleus.com. In addition, the SEC maintains a website at www.sec.gov, free of charge, that contains these reports, the Fund’s proxy and information statements, and other information relating to the Fund.
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APPENDIX A — DESCRIPTION OF CREDIT RATINGS
The ratings of S&P Global Ratings, Moody’s Ratings, Fitch, DBRS, and KBRA represent their opinions as to quality. These ratings are not absolute standards of quality and are not recommendations to purchase, sell or hold a security. Issuers and issues are subject to risks that are not evaluated by the rating agencies. When a security is not rated by one of these agencies, it is designated as Not Rated. Securities designated as Not Rated do not necessarily indicate low credit quality, and for such securities the Investment Manager evaluates the credit quality.
The following ratings descriptions, which were derived as of March 23, 2023 from the particular credit rating agency’s website, identify the date such descriptions were then last updated by such credit rating agency.
The following ratings descriptions, which were derived as of March 23, 2023 from the particular credit rating agency’s website, identify the date such descriptions were then last updated by such credit rating agency.
S&P’s Ratings last updated on November 10, 2021
Long-Term Issue Credit Ratings*
An obligation rated ‘AAA’ has the highest rating assigned by S&P Global Ratings. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is extremely strong.
An obligation rated ‘AA’ differs from the highest-rated obligations only to a small degree. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is very strong.
An obligation rated ‘A’ is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is still strong.
An obligation rated ‘BBB’ exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.
Obligations rated ‘BB’, ‘B’, ‘CCC’, ‘CC’, and ‘C’ are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. ‘BB’ indicates the least degree of speculation and ‘C’ the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposure to adverse conditions.
An obligation rated ‘BB’ is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions that could lead to the obligor’s inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.
An obligation rated ‘B’ is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated ‘BB’, but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor’s capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.
An obligation rated ‘CCC’ is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.
An obligation rated ‘CC’ is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment. The ‘CC’ rating is used when a default has not yet occurred but S&P Global Ratings expects default to be a virtual certainty, regardless of the anticipated time to default.
An obligation rated ‘C’ is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment, and the obligation is expected to have lower relative seniority or lower ultimate recovery compared with obligations that are rated higher.
An obligation rated ‘D’ is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the ‘D’ rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P Global Ratings believes that such payments will be made within the next five business days in the absence of a stated grace period or within the earlier of the stated grace period or the next 30 calendar days. The ‘D’ rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. A rating on an obligation is lowered to ‘D’ if it is subject to a distressed debt restructuring.
*Ratings from ‘AA’ to ‘CCC’ may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the rating categories.
Short-Term Issue Credit Ratings
A short-term obligation rated ‘A-1’ is rated in the highest category by S&P Global Ratings. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on these obligations is extremely strong.
A short-term obligation rated ‘A-2’ is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is satisfactory.
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A-1
A short-term obligation rated ‘A-3’ exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken an obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.
A short-term obligation rated ‘B’ is regarded as vulnerable and has significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties that could lead to the obligor’s inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.
A short-term obligation rated ‘C’ is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.
A short-term obligation rated ‘D’ is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the ‘D’ rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P Global Ratings believes that such payments will be made within any stated grace period. However, any stated grace period longer than five business days will be treated as five business days. The ‘D’ rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. A rating on an obligation is lowered to ‘D’ if it is subject to a distressed debt restructuring.
Municipal Short-Term Note Ratings
SP-1 Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. An issue determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service is given a plus (+) designation.
SP-2 Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the notes.
SP-3 Speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.
D ‘D’ is assigned upon failure to pay the note when due, completion of a distressed debt restructuring, or the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions.
Moody’s Ratings last updated on December 20, 2022
Global Long-Term Rating Scale
Aaa – Obligations rated Aaa are judged to be of the highest quality, subject to the lowest level of credit risk.
Aa – Obligations rated Aa are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.
A – Obligations rated A are judged to be upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.
Baa – Obligations rated Baa are judged to be medium-grade and subject to moderate credit risk and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics.
Ba – Obligations rated Ba are judged to be speculative and are subject to substantial credit risk.
B – Obligations rated B are considered speculative and are subject to high credit risk.
Caa – Obligations rated Caa are judged to be speculative of poor standing and are subject to very high credit risk.
Ca – Obligations rated Ca are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect of recovery of principal and interest.
C – Obligations rated C are the lowest rated and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.
Note: Moody’s Ratings appends numerical modifiers 1, 2, and 3 to each generic rating classification from Aa through Caa. The modifier 1 indicates that the obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of that generic rating category. Additionally, a “(hyb)” indicator is appended to all ratings of hybrid securities issued by banks, insurers, finance companies, and securities firms.*
* By their terms, hybrid securities allow for the omission of scheduled dividends, interest, or principal payments, which can potentially result in impairment if such an omission occurs. Hybrid securities may also be subject to contractually allowable write-downs of principal that could result in impairment. Together with the hybrid indicator, the long-term obligation rating assigned to a hybrid security is an expression of the relative credit risk associated with that security.
Global Short-Term Rating Scale
P-1 – Ratings of Prime-1 reflect a superior ability to repay short-term obligations.
P-2 – Ratings of Prime-2 reflect a strong ability to repay short-term obligations.
P-3 – Ratings of Prime-3 reflect an acceptable ability to repay short-term obligations.
NP – Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating categories.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
A-2
US Municipal Short-Term Debt and Demand Obligation Ratings
MIG Scale
MIG 1 – This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.
MIG 2 – This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.
MIG 3 – This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access for refinancing is likely to be less well-established.
SG – This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Debt instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.
VMIG Scale
VMIG 1 – This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by the superior short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections.
VMIG 2 – This designation denotes strong credit quality. Good protection is afforded by the strong short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections.
VMIG 3 – This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Adequate protection is afforded by the satisfactory short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections.
SG – This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Demand features rated in this category may be supported by a liquidity provider that does not have a sufficiently strong short-term rating or may lack the structural or legal protections.
For variable rate demand obligations, Moody’s Ratings typically assigns a VMIG rating if the frequency of the payment obligation is less than every three years. If the frequency of the payment obligation is less than three years, but the obligation is payable only with remarketing proceeds, the VMIG short-term rating is not assigned and it is denoted as “NR”.
Fitch’s Ratings last updated on March 21, 2022
Corporate Finance Obligations – Long-Term Rating Scales
AAA: Highest Credit Quality.
‘AAA’ ratings denote the lowest expectation of credit risk. They are assigned only in cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.
‘AAA’ ratings denote the lowest expectation of credit risk. They are assigned only in cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.
AA: Very High Credit Quality.
‘AA’ ratings denote expectations of very low credit risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.
‘AA’ ratings denote expectations of very low credit risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.
A: High Credit Quality.
‘A’ ratings denote expectations of low credit risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.
‘A’ ratings denote expectations of low credit risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.
BBB: Good Credit Quality.
‘BBB’ ratings indicate that expectations of credit risk are currently low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate, but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.
‘BBB’ ratings indicate that expectations of credit risk are currently low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate, but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.
BB: Speculative.
‘BB’ ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to credit risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time; however, business or financial alternatives may be available to allow financial commitments to be met.
‘BB’ ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to credit risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time; however, business or financial alternatives may be available to allow financial commitments to be met.
B: Highly Speculative.
‘B’ ratings indicate that material credit risk is present.
‘B’ ratings indicate that material credit risk is present.
CCC: Substantial Credit Risk.
‘CCC’ ratings indicate that substantial credit risk is present.
‘CCC’ ratings indicate that substantial credit risk is present.
CC: Very High Levels of Credit Risk.
‘CC’ ratings indicate very high levels of credit risk.
‘CC’ ratings indicate very high levels of credit risk.
C: Exceptionally High Levels of Credit Risk.
‘C’ indicates exceptionally high levels of credit risk.
‘C’ indicates exceptionally high levels of credit risk.
Ratings in the categories of ‘CCC’, ‘CC’ and ‘C’ can also relate to obligations or issuers that are in default. In this case, the rating does not opine on default risk but reflects the recovery expectation only.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
A-3
Corporate Finance defaulted obligations typically are not assigned ‘RD’ or ‘D’ ratings but are instead rated in the ‘CCC’ to ‘C’ rating categories, depending on their recovery prospects and other relevant characteristics. This approach better aligns obligations that have comparable overall expected loss but varying vulnerability to default and loss.
Short-Term Ratings Assigned to Issuers and Obligations
F1: Highest Short-Term Credit Quality
Indicates the strongest intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; may have an added "+" to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.
Indicates the strongest intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; may have an added "+" to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.
F2: Good Short-Term Credit Quality
Good intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments.
Good intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments.
F3: Fair Short-Term Credit Quality
The intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate.
The intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate.
B: Speculative Short-Term Credit Quality
Minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus heightened vulnerability to near term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.
Minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus heightened vulnerability to near term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.
C: High Short-Term Default Risk
Default is a real possibility.
Default is a real possibility.
RD: Restricted Default
Indicates an entity that has defaulted on one or more of its financial commitments, although it continues to meet other financial obligations. Typically applicable to entity ratings only.
Indicates an entity that has defaulted on one or more of its financial commitments, although it continues to meet other financial obligations. Typically applicable to entity ratings only.
D: Default
Indicates a broad-based default event for an entity, or the default of a short-term obligation.
Indicates a broad-based default event for an entity, or the default of a short-term obligation.
The table below reflects typical relationships between the long-term rating and the short-term rating.
| Long-Term Rating |
Short-Term Rating |
| AAA |
F1+ |
| AA+ |
F1+ |
| AA |
F1+ |
| AA– |
F1+ |
| A+ |
F1 or F1+ |
| A |
F1 or F1+ |
| A– |
F2 or F1 |
| BBB+ |
F2 or F1 |
| BBB |
F3 or F2 |
| BBB– |
F3 |
| BB+ |
B |
| BB |
B |
| BB– |
B |
| B+ |
B |
| B |
B |
| B– |
B |
| CCC+ / CCC / CCC– |
C |
| CC |
C |
| C |
C |
| RD / D |
RD / D |
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
A-4
DBRS’s Ratings last updated on March 1, 2022
Long-Term Obligations Scale
All rating categories from AA to CCC contain the subcategories (high) and (low). The absence of either a (high) or (low) designation indicates the credit rating is in the middle of the category.
AAA
Highest credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is exceptionally high and unlikely to be adversely affected by future events.
Highest credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is exceptionally high and unlikely to be adversely affected by future events.
AA
Superior credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is considered high. Credit quality differs from AAA only to a small degree. Unlikely to be significantly vulnerable to future events.
Superior credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is considered high. Credit quality differs from AAA only to a small degree. Unlikely to be significantly vulnerable to future events.
A
Good credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is substantial, but of lesser credit quality than AA. May be vulnerable to future events, but qualifying negative factors are considered manageable.
Good credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is substantial, but of lesser credit quality than AA. May be vulnerable to future events, but qualifying negative factors are considered manageable.
BBB
Adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is considered acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events.
Adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is considered acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events.
BB
Speculative, non-investment-grade credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is uncertain. Vulnerable to future events.
Speculative, non-investment-grade credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is uncertain. Vulnerable to future events.
B
Highly speculative credit quality. There is a high level of uncertainty as to the capacity to meet financial obligations.
Highly speculative credit quality. There is a high level of uncertainty as to the capacity to meet financial obligations.
CCC / CC / C
Very highly speculative credit quality. In danger of defaulting on financial obligations. There is little difference between these three categories, although CC and C ratings are normally applied to obligations that are seen as highly likely to default, or subordinated to obligations rated in the CCC to B range. Obligations in respect of which default has not technically taken place but is considered inevitable may be rated in the C category.
Very highly speculative credit quality. In danger of defaulting on financial obligations. There is little difference between these three categories, although CC and C ratings are normally applied to obligations that are seen as highly likely to default, or subordinated to obligations rated in the CCC to B range. Obligations in respect of which default has not technically taken place but is considered inevitable may be rated in the C category.
D
When the issuer has filed under any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or winding up statute or there is a failure to satisfy an obligation after the exhaustion of grace periods, a downgrade to D may occur. Morningstar DBRS may also use SD (Selective Default) in cases where only some securities are impacted, such as the case of a “distressed exchange”. See the Default Definition document on dbrsmorningstar.com under Understanding Ratings for more information.
When the issuer has filed under any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or winding up statute or there is a failure to satisfy an obligation after the exhaustion of grace periods, a downgrade to D may occur. Morningstar DBRS may also use SD (Selective Default) in cases where only some securities are impacted, such as the case of a “distressed exchange”. See the Default Definition document on dbrsmorningstar.com under Understanding Ratings for more information.
Commercial Paper and Short-Term Debt Rating Scale
The R-1 and R-2 rating categories are further denoted by the subcategories (high), (middle), and (low).
R-1 (high)
Highest credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is exceptionally high. Unlikely to be adversely affected by future events.
Highest credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is exceptionally high. Unlikely to be adversely affected by future events.
R-1 (middle)
Superior credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is very high. Differs from R-1 (high) by a relatively modest degree. Unlikely to be significantly vulnerable to future events.
Superior credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is very high. Differs from R-1 (high) by a relatively modest degree. Unlikely to be significantly vulnerable to future events.
R-1 (low)
Good credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is substantial. Overall strength is not as favorable as higher rating categories. May be vulnerable to future events, but qualifying negative factors are considered manageable.
Good credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is substantial. Overall strength is not as favorable as higher rating categories. May be vulnerable to future events, but qualifying negative factors are considered manageable.
R-2 (high)
Upper end of adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events.
Upper end of adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events.
R-2 (middle)
Adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events or may be exposed to other factors that could reduce credit quality.
Adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events or may be exposed to other factors that could reduce credit quality.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
A-5
R-2 (low)
Lower end of adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events. A number of challenges are present that could affect the issuer’s ability to meet such obligations.
Lower end of adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events. A number of challenges are present that could affect the issuer’s ability to meet such obligations.
R-3
Lowest end of adequate credit quality. There is capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due. May be vulnerable to future events and the certainty of meeting such obligations could be impacted by a variety of developments.
Lowest end of adequate credit quality. There is capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due. May be vulnerable to future events and the certainty of meeting such obligations could be impacted by a variety of developments.
R-4
Speculative credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is uncertain.
Speculative credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is uncertain.
R-5
Highly speculative credit quality. There is a high level of uncertainty as to the capacity to meet short-term financial obligations as they fall due.
Highly speculative credit quality. There is a high level of uncertainty as to the capacity to meet short-term financial obligations as they fall due.
D
When the issuer has filed under any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, or winding up statute or there is a failure to satisfy an obligation after the exhaustion of grace periods, a downgrade to D may occur. Morningstar DBRS may also use SD (Selective Default) in cases where only some securities are impacted, such as the case of a “distressed exchange”. See the Default Definition document on dbrsmorningstar.com under Understanding Ratings for more information.
When the issuer has filed under any applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, or winding up statute or there is a failure to satisfy an obligation after the exhaustion of grace periods, a downgrade to D may occur. Morningstar DBRS may also use SD (Selective Default) in cases where only some securities are impacted, such as the case of a “distressed exchange”. See the Default Definition document on dbrsmorningstar.com under Understanding Ratings for more information.
KBRA’s Ratings, derived from the credit rating agency’s website as of March 23, 2023
Long-Term Credit Rating Scale
AAA: Determined to have almost no risk of loss due to credit-related events. Assigned only to the very highest quality obligors and obligations able to survive extremely challenging economic events.
AA: Determined to have minimal risk of loss due to credit-related events. Such obligors and obligations are deemed very high quality.
A: Determined to be of high quality with a small risk of loss due to credit-related events. Issuers and obligations in this category are expected to weather difficult times with low credit losses.
BBB: Determined to be of medium quality with some risk of loss due to credit-related events. Such issuers and obligations may experience credit losses during stressed environments.
BB: Determined to be of low quality with moderate risk of loss due to credit-related events. Such issuers and obligations have fundamental weaknesses that create moderate credit risk.
B: Determined to be of very low quality with high risk of loss due to credit-related events. These issuers and obligations contain many fundamental shortcomings that create significant credit risk.
CCC: Determined to be at substantial risk of loss due to credit-related events, near default or in default with high recovery expectations.
CC: Determined to be near default or in default with average recovery expectations.
C: Determined to be near default or in default with low recovery expectations.
D: KBRA defines default as occurring if:
■
There is a missed interest payment, principal payment, or preferred dividend payment, as applicable, on a rated obligation which is unlikely to be recovered.
■
The rated entity files for protection from creditors, is placed into receivership, or is closed by regulators such that a missed payment is likely to result.
■
The rated entity seeks and completes a distressed exchange, where existing rated obligations are replaced by new obligations with a diminished economic value.
KBRA may append - or + modifiers to ratings in categories AA through CCC to indicate, respectively, upper and lower risk levels within the broader category.
Short-Term Credit Rating Scale
K1+: Exceptional ability to meet short-term obligations.
K1: Very strong ability to meet short-term obligations.
K2: Strong ability to meet short-term obligations.
K3: Adequate ability to meet short-term obligations.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
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B: Questionable ability to meet short-term obligations.
C: Little ability to meet short-term obligations.
D: KBRA defines default as occurring if:
■
There is a missed interest payment, principal payment, or preferred dividend payment, as applicable, on a rated obligation which is unlikely to be recovered.
■
The rated entity files for protection from creditors, is placed into receivership, or is closed by regulators such that a missed payment is likely to result.
■
The rated entity seeks and completes a distressed exchange, where existing rated obligations are replaced by new obligations with a diminished economic value.
With exceptions for certain issuers and sectors, the following correspondence between KBRA's short- and long-term ratings generally holds:
| Long-Term Rating |
Short-Term Rating |
| AAA AA+ AA AA– |
K1+ |
| A+ |
K1+ or K1 |
| A |
K1 |
| A– |
K1 or K2 |
| BBB+ |
K2 |
| BBB |
K2 or K3 |
| BBB– |
K3 |
| BB+ BB BB– B+ B B– |
B |
| CCC+ CCC CCC– CC C |
C |
| D |
D |
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
A-7
APPENDIX B — CORPORATE GOVERNANCE GUIDELINES
Contents
| 1 Overview of key principles and approach |
B-1 |
| 2 Role, structure and operation of boards |
B-2 |
| 3 Board committees |
B-5 |
| 4 Compensation |
B-6 |
| 5 Audit, risk and control |
B-7 |
| 6 Shareholder rights |
B-8 |
| 7 Reporting |
B-9 |
| 8 Social and environmental factors |
B-11 |
| 9 Voting matters |
B-13 |
The following guidelines apply to Columbia Threadneedle Investments’ client accounts to the extent agreed upon and/or permissible including voting on behalf of reo® (Responsible Engagement Overlay) service clients, which gives investors access to our overall engagement and proxy voting service offerings.i
As an asset management business, we seek to act in the best economic interests of clients when carrying out our investment activities. Our investment clients are retail and institutional investors, including corporate pension funds.
Our voting guidelines are applied to all listed equity client portfolios. However, our institutional clients always have the right to determine how we vote their securities. We will always comply with those requests.
In addition to these guidelines, general and country-specific voting guidelines are maintained and applied within the voting process. Voting guidelines provide greater detail on resolutions that will (and will not) be supported and are drawn directly from the Corporate Governance Guidelines.
In executing votes, where companies put forward a strong case for not complying with our voting guidelines, we will take this into account and adjust our vote if we believe the company is acting in the best economic interests of shareholders (and, thus, our clients). We apply our guidelines to client portfolios in a manner that considers our clients’ respective investment objectives and best economic interests. This could result in our voting on a matter the same way (or differently) for different clients. If you wish to clarify anything in these guidelines, please email your relationship manager or the Responsible Investment team at Governance@columbiathreadneedle.com. The Responsible Investment team is responsible for and reviews this document annually.
1 Overview of key principles and approach
Well governed companies are better positioned to manage risks, identify opportunities, and deliver sustainable growth and returns for our clients. These guidelines establish a consistent philosophy and approach to corporate governance and the exercise of voting rights. The approach is based on the overarching principles of:
■
An empowered and effective board and management;
■
Appropriate checks and balances in company management structures;
■
Effective systems of internal control and risk management covering all material risks, including environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) issues;
■
A commitment to promoting throughout the company a culture of transparency and accountability that is grounded in sound business ethics;
■
Compensation policies that reward the creation of long-term shareholder value through the achievement of corporate objectives; and
■
A commitment to protecting the rights and interests of all.
We recognize that such principles may be expressed differently in different markets. Therefore, our voting policies take account of local practices and are applied in a pragmatic fashion that reflects an integrated understanding of local and international good practice. In all cases, we aim to achieve the same result: the preservation and enhancement of long-term shareholder value through management accountability and transparency in reporting.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
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We also recognize that companies are not homogeneous and some variation in governance structures and practice is to be expected. Achieving best practice in corporate governance is a dynamic process between the board, management, and shareholders.
We encourage companies to engage in the process of shaping and meeting evolving standards of best practice. Although our voting is strongly rooted in a clear set of corporate governance principles, we approach each company’s case on its merits using our expertise, discretion, and dialogue with companies to do so. For this reason, we encourage companies to contact us with information about any governance practices and challenges unique to the company. When we do not vote with management’s or the board’s recommendations, we may choose to inform the company of our voting decision and provide comments to explain the specific concerns with the resolutions we did not support.
2 Role, structure and operation of boards
We use the term “board” to describe the board of directors and similar supervisory decision-making bodies. The board is ultimately responsible for the management of the company.
This is mainly achieved through the delegation of powers to executive management. The board should receive the report of executive management on the conduct of the business and regularly question management on these matters. However, certain matters should be reserved for the board.
The board is responsible for setting and testing strategy proposed by executive management, determining the risk appetite for the business, ensuring the independence and effectiveness of external audit, and for succession planning of both executive management and the board.
The structure, composition and operation of boards will vary from country to country and company to company. Certain elements of effective boards are universal, and these are detailed below under the following sub-headings:
■
Roles and independence;
■
Competence, objectivity and refreshment;
■
Effective functioning of boards; and
■
Communication and accountability to shareholders.
Roles and independence
The composition of the board is of the utmost importance. Boards should have meaningful representation of both executive and non-executive directors. Non-executives should be wholly independent of the company, although we recognize that, in certain cases, connected non-executives have a valuable role to play.
The role of the chair and separation of principal roles
The roles of the chair and chief executive officer (CEO) are substantively different and should be separated. We regard separation of the roles as important for securing a proper balance of authority and responsibility between executive management and the board, as well as preserving accountability within the board. If for any reason the roles are combined (e.g., over an unexpected transitional period) this should be explained and justified in the report and accounts. In all such cases, a strong senior independent non-executive director should be nominated (i.e., a lead independent director).
The roles of the chair and chief executive officer (CEO) are substantively different and should be separated. We regard separation of the roles as important for securing a proper balance of authority and responsibility between executive management and the board, as well as preserving accountability within the board. If for any reason the roles are combined (e.g., over an unexpected transitional period) this should be explained and justified in the report and accounts. In all such cases, a strong senior independent non-executive director should be nominated (i.e., a lead independent director).
Executive directors
Including executives in board meetings is essential to enhance discussion and allow independent directors to gain the fullest understanding of company operations. In markets where customary, we encourage the appointment of key executives to the board alongside the CEO and the chief financial officer (CFO). The presence of other executives provides additional company knowledge for the board and ensures the board is not solely dependent on the CEO for input relating to the company’s operations and strategies. However, the number of executive directors should not outweigh the number of independent non-executives.
Including executives in board meetings is essential to enhance discussion and allow independent directors to gain the fullest understanding of company operations. In markets where customary, we encourage the appointment of key executives to the board alongside the CEO and the chief financial officer (CFO). The presence of other executives provides additional company knowledge for the board and ensures the board is not solely dependent on the CEO for input relating to the company’s operations and strategies. However, the number of executive directors should not outweigh the number of independent non-executives.
Non-executive directors
We assess the number of directorships an individual director holds to ensure they have sufficient time and energy to perform their role as a non-executive director properly as this is a demanding role. Factors that determine the appropriate number of directorships are the size of the company, its complexity, its circumstances, other commitments that a director has and the results of board evaluation, among others. We consider that holding multiple directorships in large companies can be excessive even for a full-time non-executive director, especially when considering board committee participation. Multiple directorships should be avoided for a full-time executive. For complex companies, particularly in developed markets, we may vote against non-executive directors who hold more than five directorships.
We assess the number of directorships an individual director holds to ensure they have sufficient time and energy to perform their role as a non-executive director properly as this is a demanding role. Factors that determine the appropriate number of directorships are the size of the company, its complexity, its circumstances, other commitments that a director has and the results of board evaluation, among others. We consider that holding multiple directorships in large companies can be excessive even for a full-time non-executive director, especially when considering board committee participation. Multiple directorships should be avoided for a full-time executive. For complex companies, particularly in developed markets, we may vote against non-executive directors who hold more than five directorships.
Statement of Additional Information – November 15, 2024
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Proportion of non-executive directors on the board
Difficult decisions that center on the best interest of shareholders arise from open and direct interplay between boards and company executives. It is important to have enough independent non-executive directors for an adequate diversity of views and to fulfil committee membership quotas. We expect all widely-held companies to have a majority of independent directors.
Difficult decisions that center on the best interest of shareholders arise from open and direct interplay between boards and company executives. It is important to have enough independent non-executive directors for an adequate diversity of views and to fulfil committee membership quotas. We expect all widely-held companies to have a majority of independent directors.
For companies with controlling shareholders, we expect there to be a minimum of one-third of fully independent directors on the board.
Independence of non-executive directors
Independence of individual directors is valued, but a well- balanced board is valued above all. We will support non- independent directors when they bring skills, sector knowledge and other experience that justify their presence on the board, particularly where the appropriate balance of independence is maintained.
Independence of individual directors is valued, but a well- balanced board is valued above all. We will support non- independent directors when they bring skills, sector knowledge and other experience that justify their presence on the board, particularly where the appropriate balance of independence is maintained.
The criteria for the independence of directors draw on a variety of standards, including the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Principles of Corporate Governance, national corporate governance codes, listing rules, and guidance provided by the International Corporate Governance Network, among others. We favor a principles-based approach, which seeks to ensure that directors can act in the interests of the company and its shareholders. Companies should consider using the corporate governance report or annual shareholder meeting materials to explain the board evaluation process, and to justify the value that non-independent directors bring to the board.
■
Not have close family ties with the company’s advisers, directors or senior employees;
■
Not serve as a board committee chair if they have served on the board for a period of time that may hinder their independence of thought;
■
Not hold cross-directorships or have significant links with other directors (see “Interlocking boards” below);
■
Not be major shareholders or representatives of any special interest group, including government representatives in cases of state ownership or representatives of affiliated companies;
■
Have no significant commercial involvement with the company as professional advisers, major suppliers or customers;
■
Not be entitled to performance-related pay, stock options, pensions, or benefit from large donations to charitable causes of their choice;
■
Not normally hold other directorships in companies in a closely-related industry so as to avoid potential conflicts of interest.
Interlocking boards
We seek to ensure that directors are not only independent from the company, but also of one another. We expect companies to disclose interlocking board relationships and to explain how the independence of individual directors is preserved when directors jointly serve on two or more of the same boards.ii
We seek to ensure that directors are not only independent from the company, but also of one another. We expect companies to disclose interlocking board relationships and to explain how the independence of individual directors is preserved when directors jointly serve on two or more of the same boards.ii
Extensive board service and independence
Prolonged membership on a board jeopardizes independence as directors may become close with management and overly invested in prior strategic decisions. Independence is critical to ensuring shareholders have adequate voice inside the boardroom. After a certain length of board service, directors may not be considered fully independent and it may be inappropriate for such directors to serve on committees, such as the audit committee, where absolute independence is a key requirement.
Prolonged membership on a board jeopardizes independence as directors may become close with management and overly invested in prior strategic decisions. Independence is critical to ensuring shareholders have adequate voice inside the boardroom. After a certain length of board service, directors may not be considered fully independent and it may be inappropriate for such directors to serve on committees, such as the audit committee, where absolute independence is a key requirement.
We recognize that there is no fixed time period where a director categorically loses independence. Nonetheless, we will leverage a respective country’s own regulatory requirement regarding independence where specified. In North America, we will assess whether the average board tenure of the company is significantly beyond the respective market’s average when considering the board’s overall balance.
Where the appropriate balance of independence is not met, we will analyze whether to support the re-election of long-standing directors.
Independence of employee representatives
While a number of countries have legislation mandating a certain percentage of employee representatives on the board, we do not consider these individuals to be fully independent. Hence, we expect companies domiciled in countries with mandatory co-determination (the process by which employees elect their representatives to the board) or employee representation to ensure that the board and its committees have adequate representation of truly independent directors.
While a number of countries have legislation mandating a certain percentage of employee representatives on the board, we do not consider these individuals to be fully independent. Hence, we expect companies domiciled in countries with mandatory co-determination (the process by which employees elect their representatives to the board) or employee representation to ensure that the board and its committees have adequate representation of truly independent directors.
Competence, objectivity and renewal
Diversity, competencies and perspectives
A relevant and suitably diverse mix of skills and perspectives is critical to the quality of the board and the strategic direction of the company. Companies should therefore strive to widen the pool of potential candidates for board and management roles to ensure they draw on the richest possible combination of competencies and experiences.
A relevant and suitably diverse mix of skills and perspectives is critical to the quality of the board and the strategic direction of the company. Companies should therefore strive to widen the pool of potential candidates for board and management roles to ensure they draw on the richest possible combination of competencies and experiences.
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In all cases, candidates must be selected for their ability to oversee and enhance long-term company performance. Boards should recruit members with the appropriate combination of skills and experience, and should affirm the value of individual diversity, including gender, racial, ethnic, national origin, professional background and other relevant factors that may enhance the board’s overall performance. As boards cannot be transformed overnight, we look for a statement that sets out the board’s approach to promoting diversity at the board, executive management, and companywide workforce level. We welcome disclosure of specific diversity targets set by the board and subsequent reporting on performance against these targets. Where disclosure is absent and appropriate diversity levels across gender, racial and ethnic representation have not been met, we will normally not support the re-election of nomination committee chairs or other relevant directors.
Re-election of directors
To ensure that it retains an open and critical perspective, the board should be continually refreshed. For this reason, all directors should be required to submit themselves for re-election at regular intervals. We prefer to have all directors standing for annual election to strengthen the accountability of the board to shareholders. Failing that, we encourage the chair of the board, as well as the chairs of the audit, compensation and nomination committees to stand for annual re-election to strengthen accountability for the core functions of the board. We also believe that a minimum of one-third of board members should stand for election annually.
To ensure that it retains an open and critical perspective, the board should be continually refreshed. For this reason, all directors should be required to submit themselves for re-election at regular intervals. We prefer to have all directors standing for annual election to strengthen the accountability of the board to shareholders. Failing that, we encourage the chair of the board, as well as the chairs of the audit, compensation and nomination committees to stand for annual re-election to strengthen accountability for the core functions of the board. We also believe that a minimum of one-third of board members should stand for election annually.
Nomination of directors
We strongly believe that a board nominating committee composed of a majority of independent non-executive directors is best placed to identify and put forward suitable candidates for the board. Shareholders should only put forward candidates where there is clear evidence of ineffective board oversight and unwillingness to correct the problem—or where a cumulative voting system or similar arrangement encourages direct shareholder participation in board nominations. We expect companies to put forward only one candidate for each available position as an indication that the company is clear about the value each director brings to the board. We encourage companies to specify each candidate’s qualifications, experiences and skills that are of relevance and importance to the board’s oversight of company strategy.
We strongly believe that a board nominating committee composed of a majority of independent non-executive directors is best placed to identify and put forward suitable candidates for the board. Shareholders should only put forward candidates where there is clear evidence of ineffective board oversight and unwillingness to correct the problem—or where a cumulative voting system or similar arrangement encourages direct shareholder participation in board nominations. We expect companies to put forward only one candidate for each available position as an indication that the company is clear about the value each director brings to the board. We encourage companies to specify each candidate’s qualifications, experiences and skills that are of relevance and importance to the board’s oversight of company strategy.
Balanced composition
We will consider voting against the chair or members of nominating committees who have not constructed appropriately balanced, independent boards. Indicators include: an overreliance on long-standing members; an over-reliance on affiliated directors; and a lack of appropriate diversity characteristics, including gender, race, nationality, ethnicity, etc., that reflect the nature, scope and aspirations of the business.
We will consider voting against the chair or members of nominating committees who have not constructed appropriately balanced, independent boards. Indicators include: an overreliance on long-standing members; an over-reliance on affiliated directors; and a lack of appropriate diversity characteristics, including gender, race, nationality, ethnicity, etc., that reflect the nature, scope and aspirations of the business.
Effective functioning of boards
Board size
In the case of a two-tier board structure, neither board should be large: between five and 10 members typically is appropriate. A unitary board normally should have between five and 15 members. In the case of overly large boards and in the absence of a commitment to reduce board size, we may withhold support from the nominating or corporate governance committee chair unless clear justification has been provided explaining the need for such a large board.
In the case of a two-tier board structure, neither board should be large: between five and 10 members typically is appropriate. A unitary board normally should have between five and 15 members. In the case of overly large boards and in the absence of a commitment to reduce board size, we may withhold support from the nominating or corporate governance committee chair unless clear justification has been provided explaining the need for such a large board.
Two-tier boards
We are agnostic as to the merits of a two-tier board as opposed to a unitary board, and we recognize that a two-tier board structure is the norm in many markets. At the same time, we are aware that there can be challenges in communication between a supervisory board and a management board. Where there is more than one body forming the board, companies should maintain an effective mechanism for the various elements of the board to work together and should explain how this happens. This system should ensure the most effective use is made of all individuals involved so that the company can optimize the unique skills and experiences of their directors.
We are agnostic as to the merits of a two-tier board as opposed to a unitary board, and we recognize that a two-tier board structure is the norm in many markets. At the same time, we are aware that there can be challenges in communication between a supervisory board and a management board. Where there is more than one body forming the board, companies should maintain an effective mechanism for the various elements of the board to work together and should explain how this happens. This system should ensure the most effective use is made of all individuals involved so that the company can optimize the unique skills and experiences of their directors.
Board evaluation
Board evaluations are an important tool for improving board performance. All boards should implement an evaluation process that considers the effectiveness of the entire board, its committees, the contributions made by each member, including its systems for interaction between the board and company management, areas for improvement, and behaviors and overall board culture. The nominating or governance committee may oversee the evaluation process and should report general findings and areas for improvement publicly to shareholders. Large or systemically important companies should leverage professional, independent assistance to facilitate evaluations on a periodic basis (typically every three years).
Board evaluations are an important tool for improving board performance. All boards should implement an evaluation process that considers the effectiveness of the entire board, its committees, the contributions made by each member, including its systems for interaction between the board and company management, areas for improvement, and behaviors and overall board culture. The nominating or governance committee may oversee the evaluation process and should report general findings and areas for improvement publicly to shareholders. Large or systemically important companies should leverage professional, independent assistance to facilitate evaluations on a periodic basis (typically every three years).
Board meetings & attendance
The board should meet at regular intervals to ensure effective oversight of the company. We regard six meetings per year as a minimum guidance, and often more frequent meetings are necessary.
The board should meet at regular intervals to ensure effective oversight of the company. We regard six meetings per year as a minimum guidance, and often more frequent meetings are necessary.
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We also expect directors to attend the annual general meeting (AGM), and to facilitate communication with the shareholders whom they represent. The company should disclose the attendance record of individual directors in the AGM report, as well as mechanisms for shareholders to communicate directly with the board. We may withhold support from directors with poor attendance records or boards who fail to accommodate shareholder dialogue.
Non-executive director (NED) only meetings
NEDs should meet without executive board members present on a regular basis and when circumstances demand. They should also have at least one meeting per year to hold an unconstrained discussion away from day-to-day business matters. Ideally, this should be chaired by a senior or lead independent director, although the chair may be present (provided they are a non- executive). Conversely, in the case of two-tiered boards, supervisory boards should meet with executives on a regular basis to minimize the risk that NEDs could become marginalized from the business.
NEDs should meet without executive board members present on a regular basis and when circumstances demand. They should also have at least one meeting per year to hold an unconstrained discussion away from day-to-day business matters. Ideally, this should be chaired by a senior or lead independent director, although the chair may be present (provided they are a non- executive). Conversely, in the case of two-tiered boards, supervisory boards should meet with executives on a regular basis to minimize the risk that NEDs could become marginalized from the business.
Training and mentorship
All directors should receive appropriate training when being onboarded. Ideally, the onboarding process should include assignment of a board mentor. Mentors are normally long- or medium-standing directors willing to take on the responsibility of providing ad hoc support and context for new directors.
All directors should receive appropriate training when being onboarded. Ideally, the onboarding process should include assignment of a board mentor. Mentors are normally long- or medium-standing directors willing to take on the responsibility of providing ad hoc support and context for new directors.
All directors should regularly be provided opportunities to attend conferences, classes, or webinars to upskill and remain relevant. Such offerings may be an outcome of the board evaluation process or a request from directors or management directly. We encourage companies to develop regular director training plans that include educating directors on relevant environmental, social and governance matters.
Communication and accountability
The board should proactively and regularly make itself available for consultation with shareholders. To this end, boards should appoint a senior or lead independent director to fulfil a formal liaison role with key stakeholders. This is most important in cases where the CEO also holds the chair position, has executive responsibilities or was not independent on appointment.
Where appropriate, NEDs should be prepared to discuss matters of strategy, performance, risk, capital structure, standards of operational practice, and oversight of company-specific environmental and social matters.
3 Board committees
We encourage companies to move towards fully independent audit and compensation committees, as well as a nomination committee composed of a majority of independent directors. All board committees should report on their activities annually to shareholders (see section on “Reporting” below).
Audit
The audit committee provides an important safeguard for shareholders and for other stakeholders that rely upon the integrity of the report and accounts as a basis for their investing in the company.
The audit committee provides an important safeguard for shareholders and for other stakeholders that rely upon the integrity of the report and accounts as a basis for their investing in the company.
The audit committee should consist exclusively of NEDs, all of whom should be independent, and consist of at least three individuals. At least one should have recent and relevant financial, accounting or audit experience, and all audit committee members should be financially literate. The committee should be responsible for assessing the effectiveness, independence, qualifications, expertise and resources of the external auditors (including the quality of audit) and oversee the process of review and issue of the accounts.
The audit committee should also be responsible for monitoring and approving related-party transactions and should ensure that any material related-party transactions do not disadvantage minority shareholders.
The audit committee is also responsible for publishing the annual audit report, which is essential for investors to evaluate the overall health of the business (see “Reporting” below). The audit committee report should provide meaningful disclosure on the committee’s work and the issues it has addressed. In the event of a significant restatement of accounts or material weakness in internal controls, we may not support the election of members of the audit committee who we consider have not fulfilled their duty to shareholders. We may also not support the election of these director to the boards of other unrelated companies.
Compensation
The compensation (or remuneration) committee is responsible for setting the compensation of executive directors and senior executives and should coordinate with the company’s human resources function to develop a coherent and effective compensation strategy throughout the company. As a best practice we believe that compensation committees should consist exclusively of independent non-executive directors. We encourage compensation committees to engage in direct dialogue with shareholders when developing compensation policies. (See “4. Compensation” below).
The compensation (or remuneration) committee is responsible for setting the compensation of executive directors and senior executives and should coordinate with the company’s human resources function to develop a coherent and effective compensation strategy throughout the company. As a best practice we believe that compensation committees should consist exclusively of independent non-executive directors. We encourage compensation committees to engage in direct dialogue with shareholders when developing compensation policies. (See “4. Compensation” below).
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The compensation committee must consult with other board functions to ensure that pay mechanisms are well aligned with strategic goals and the company’s appetite for risk. In particular, the compensation committee should work with the board and its committees to determine the appropriate balance in the allocation of profits to employees as incentive payment, to shareholders as dividends, and for retention or reinvestment in the business itself.
The committee’s fiduciary duty is also to ensure that the amount of payment to management is fair and appropriate. Finally, the committee should be attentive to compensation across the company to ensure management is delivering on strategic priorities, especially those that enhance shareholder returns, and managing risk effectively.
We may withhold our support from the chair and/or members of the compensation committee where there are significant concerns with the committee’s decision-making, or where issues we have identified with pay policies and practices remain unaddressed.
Nomination
A nomination committee should oversee all board and senior executive appointments. Normally it should be a committee of independent non-executive directors and the board chair. In certain instances, it may be appropriate for the committee to leverage management’s advice. Although we prefer a fully independent committee, we recognize that a non-independent director or representative of a large shareholder may be appropriate in some circumstances.
A nomination committee should oversee all board and senior executive appointments. Normally it should be a committee of independent non-executive directors and the board chair. In certain instances, it may be appropriate for the committee to leverage management’s advice. Although we prefer a fully independent committee, we recognize that a non-independent director or representative of a large shareholder may be appropriate in some circumstances.
Corporate governance
We recognize that companies may choose to have the nominating committee or a specific corporate governance committee responsible for corporate governance practices and procedures. Regardless of the structure, the committee should monitor emerging regulatory and industry standards, strive to achieve global best practice, and should consult with shareholders to understand investor expectations.
We recognize that companies may choose to have the nominating committee or a specific corporate governance committee responsible for corporate governance practices and procedures. Regardless of the structure, the committee should monitor emerging regulatory and industry standards, strive to achieve global best practice, and should consult with shareholders to understand investor expectations.
Corporate responsibility and sustainability
We believe that committees with responsibilities related to oversight of corporate social responsibility, ethics or sustainability are prudent for purposes of risk management. For large companies exposed to significant ESG risks, such committees are essential to protecting shareholder value and managing reputational risk.
We believe that committees with responsibilities related to oversight of corporate social responsibility, ethics or sustainability are prudent for purposes of risk management. For large companies exposed to significant ESG risks, such committees are essential to protecting shareholder value and managing reputational risk.
Business ethics
Whether it is through a committee such as the audit committee or a general board review, it is important that the board affirm its responsibility for reviewing internal business ethics systems, practices, and processes.
4 Compensation
Levels of compensation and other incentives should be designed to promote sustainable, long-term shareholder value creation and reflect the executives’ work and contribution to the company. No director should be involved in setting their own compensation. Given the consistent upward trend in total compensation, we expect careful usage and robust justification of benchmarks. We also wish to see comprehensive disclosure of performance targets as well as actual performance against pre-set targets. We expect justification of base pay levels awarded, and that a significant proportion of total compensation be variable and subject to appropriately challenging performance conditions. We do not set guidelines for levels of compensation beyond the principles mentioned below.
Level of pay
We expect boards to demonstrate an understanding of (and sensitivity to) the views and expectations of shareholders and other key stakeholders, such as employees, when setting executive pay.
We expect boards to demonstrate an understanding of (and sensitivity to) the views and expectations of shareholders and other key stakeholders, such as employees, when setting executive pay.
Relationship to strategy and risk
We expect companies to demonstrate the alignment of their compensation policy with their overall business strategy and planning. Performance metrics should relate to the company’s articulated strategy and risk tolerance. Targets should be constructed to align executive incentives to the interests of long-term shareholders and should not create incentives for executives to undertake short-term risks that might imperil sustainable long-term performance. We advocate for risk-related preconditions to bonus awards to ensure inappropriate incentive payments are not awarded in the event the company’s financial strength or credit quality deteriorates.
We expect companies to demonstrate the alignment of their compensation policy with their overall business strategy and planning. Performance metrics should relate to the company’s articulated strategy and risk tolerance. Targets should be constructed to align executive incentives to the interests of long-term shareholders and should not create incentives for executives to undertake short-term risks that might imperil sustainable long-term performance. We advocate for risk-related preconditions to bonus awards to ensure inappropriate incentive payments are not awarded in the event the company’s financial strength or credit quality deteriorates.
We seek appropriately detailed disclosure of board and disclosure management compensation packages (See “Compensation report” below). The purpose of the compensation report should not simply be related to compliance, rather it should be to enhance investors’ understanding of the committee’s practices, processes, and goals.
Following the award of the bonus, companies should provide a meaningful analysis in the compensation report of the extent to which relevant targets were met. The compensation report should be written in plain language and include the tax implications for the company.
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At a minimum, the compensation of all directors, including all nonexecutive and executive directors, should be disclosed individually. We look for banded disclosure of those individuals at sub-board level who make a significant contribution to the company.
Executive contracts and pensions
Prior to employment contract agreements, companies should actively consider the potential rewards concerning severance in the event of inadequate performance and clarify the performance conditions under which such severance benefits are to be payable. We encourage companies to seek mitigation in case a director has taken up employment elsewhere and to adjust the length and size of any payments accordingly. We recommend that companies make larger severance packages the subject of a shareholder vote.
Prior to employment contract agreements, companies should actively consider the potential rewards concerning severance in the event of inadequate performance and clarify the performance conditions under which such severance benefits are to be payable. We encourage companies to seek mitigation in case a director has taken up employment elsewhere and to adjust the length and size of any payments accordingly. We recommend that companies make larger severance packages the subject of a shareholder vote.
Share schemes/share compensation arrangements
We believe that strict guidelines should be observed regarding the issue, or potential issue, of shares for incentive schemes (also known as equity-based compensation plans) both as to the proportion of shares issued and to the rate at which these are issued each year. For us to accept large share schemes, the commercial drivers must outweigh the dilutive impacts. If the company is insufficiently transparent regarding the details of such schemes, we may abstain or vote against them.
We believe that strict guidelines should be observed regarding the issue, or potential issue, of shares for incentive schemes (also known as equity-based compensation plans) both as to the proportion of shares issued and to the rate at which these are issued each year. For us to accept large share schemes, the commercial drivers must outweigh the dilutive impacts. If the company is insufficiently transparent regarding the details of such schemes, we may abstain or vote against them.
Equity incentive plans
We support the principle of motivating and rewarding executives through the granting of equity incentives.
We support the principle of motivating and rewarding executives through the granting of equity incentives.
Performance targets for equity incentive plans should be clearly disclosed and challenging. We believe that the compensation committee is in the best position to determine the most appropriate performance metrics for driving the long-term business strategy. However, overall compensation packages should reflect a range of performance.
Generally, we believe executive pay plans should reflect a balance of financial, operational, and relative performance targets. We strongly believe that exceptional performance over a significant period merits an exceptional level of compensation. We oppose retesting of performance conditions and may withhold support of compensation plans where the compensation committee has used its discretion to relax any performance targets previously approved by shareholders.
We will consider one-off equity awards on a case-by-case basis in light of justification provided by the company. However, frequent use of exceptional awards raises questions over the adequacy of the overall compensation strategy and effectiveness of succession planning. We will take particular care when reviewing equity awards granted for the purposes of recruitment or retention when such awards are not linked to meaningful performance targets.
We encourage the inclusion of environmental and social factors in performance bonus payments where they could have a material impact on shareholder returns. We also expect a discussion of the process undertaken by the company to identify such factors and an explanation as to why it considers these factors to be relevant.
Holding periods, vesting and malus/clawback policies
Bonus payments and long-term incentive schemes should be structured to reward long-term growth in shareholder value and be subject to performance-vesting conditions. We encourage companies to include deferred shares as a portion of short-term bonuses. Longer-term incentive plans should be fully sharebased, and vesting periods should extend from at least three to five years or longer. We also encourage companies to require longer-term holding periods post vesting. The compensation committee should maintain a malus authority to withhold all or part of performance-based pay from executives before it has vested in cases where it deems it appropriate. The compensation committee should also have clawback authority to recover sums already paid out to executives. This might occur following a significant restatement of accounts, where previously granted awards were paid on the basis of inaccurate figures, or where the long-term outcomes of a specific strategy result in significant value destruction for shareholders.
Bonus payments and long-term incentive schemes should be structured to reward long-term growth in shareholder value and be subject to performance-vesting conditions. We encourage companies to include deferred shares as a portion of short-term bonuses. Longer-term incentive plans should be fully sharebased, and vesting periods should extend from at least three to five years or longer. We also encourage companies to require longer-term holding periods post vesting. The compensation committee should maintain a malus authority to withhold all or part of performance-based pay from executives before it has vested in cases where it deems it appropriate. The compensation committee should also have clawback authority to recover sums already paid out to executives. This might occur following a significant restatement of accounts, where previously granted awards were paid on the basis of inaccurate figures, or where the long-term outcomes of a specific strategy result in significant value destruction for shareholders.
Employee ownership
Widespread employee ownership can contribute positively to shareholder value, as it further aligns employees’ interests with those of shareholders. Such devices should not, however, be instituted as anti-takeover devices, and should be included within company-wide dilution limits.
Widespread employee ownership can contribute positively to shareholder value, as it further aligns employees’ interests with those of shareholders. Such devices should not, however, be instituted as anti-takeover devices, and should be included within company-wide dilution limits.
5 Audit, risk and control
We recommend that the independent members of the audit committee meet on a regular basis with the company’s auditors and without company management. This may enable a better flow of information between auditors and the board.
Appointment of auditors
The auditors’ performance and appointment should be reviewed periodically. Where the same firm remains as auditor for a period of time, there should be a policy of regular rotation of the lead audit partner. We believe that systematic rotation of audit firms is both desirable and in the best interests of shareholders.
The auditors’ performance and appointment should be reviewed periodically. Where the same firm remains as auditor for a period of time, there should be a policy of regular rotation of the lead audit partner. We believe that systematic rotation of audit firms is both desirable and in the best interests of shareholders.
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We expect audit quality to be the main consideration in the selection of the auditor and expect that shareholders should be given the opportunity to vote on the appointment and payment of auditors.
Auditor liability
We recognize the disproportionate risk that joint & several liability may place upon audit firms. However, we will only consider supporting arrangements to cap auditor liability in exceptional circumstances (e.g., where the risk of a catastrophic and disproportionate claim can be demonstrated).
We recognize the disproportionate risk that joint & several liability may place upon audit firms. However, we will only consider supporting arrangements to cap auditor liability in exceptional circumstances (e.g., where the risk of a catastrophic and disproportionate claim can be demonstrated).
Fees paid to a company’s auditors in addition to audit fees
Companies should disclose when auditors carry out consultancy work in addition to auditing the company and the audit committee should consider whether there is a risk that an auditor’s impartiality may be jeopardized. The range, nature and tendering process for any such non-audit work should be supervised by the audit committee, whose responsibilities in this area should be fully disclosed. Where substantial non-audit fees are paid for more than one year, we may not support the reappointment of the auditor or the payment of auditor fees in its voting at AGMs.
Companies should disclose when auditors carry out consultancy work in addition to auditing the company and the audit committee should consider whether there is a risk that an auditor’s impartiality may be jeopardized. The range, nature and tendering process for any such non-audit work should be supervised by the audit committee, whose responsibilities in this area should be fully disclosed. Where substantial non-audit fees are paid for more than one year, we may not support the reappointment of the auditor or the payment of auditor fees in its voting at AGMs.
Related-party transactions
Many companies are involved in material related-party transactions, which represent a significant risk to shareholders. This risk is mitigated in companies with fully independent audit committees whose responsibility it is to ensure that such transactions are conducted on the basis of arm’s-length valuations. We strongly encourage companies to use such committees for scrutiny, and to secure prior shareholder approval for material related-party transactions.
Many companies are involved in material related-party transactions, which represent a significant risk to shareholders. This risk is mitigated in companies with fully independent audit committees whose responsibility it is to ensure that such transactions are conducted on the basis of arm’s-length valuations. We strongly encourage companies to use such committees for scrutiny, and to secure prior shareholder approval for material related-party transactions.
In the circumstance of continued concerns, we recommend that each company disclose any shareholdings that its controlling shareholders may have in other companies or investment vehicles that have a material interest in the company.
Risk management
The board as a whole is responsible for defining a company’s risk tolerance relative to its strategy and operations—it is also responsible for monitoring the company’s performance relative to defined risks. Financial, operational, and reputational risks that are relevant to the company’s business and performance should be included in this oversight, including material ESG and ethical risks.
Depending on the size and complexity of the company, a standalone risk management committee may be warranted.
6 Shareholder rights
While the precise nature and scope of shareholder rights vary across jurisdictions and many related aspects of our expectations are touched upon in other parts of these guidelines, a number merit direct mention:
Liaison with shareholders
Board and management teams should be ready, where practicable, to engage in dialogue with shareholders based on an understanding of shared objectives. They should also be proactive in making sure important news is imparted, subject to appropriate inside information procedures, and should react helpfully to investor inquiries.
Board and management teams should be ready, where practicable, to engage in dialogue with shareholders based on an understanding of shared objectives. They should also be proactive in making sure important news is imparted, subject to appropriate inside information procedures, and should react helpfully to investor inquiries.
In investment meetings with shareholders, companies should be prepared to address relevant corporate ESG issues.
Issuance of Shares
We respect a company’s right to issue shares to raise capital. However, share issuance should be strictly limited to that which is necessary to maintain business operations and drive company strategy. We will not support requests to increase authorized share capital that exceed 50% of existing capital, unless specific justification has been provided (e.g., to complete a strategically important acquisition or undertake a necessary stock split).
We respect a company’s right to issue shares to raise capital. However, share issuance should be strictly limited to that which is necessary to maintain business operations and drive company strategy. We will not support requests to increase authorized share capital that exceed 50% of existing capital, unless specific justification has been provided (e.g., to complete a strategically important acquisition or undertake a necessary stock split).
Pre-emption Rights
We believe that pre-emptive rights for existing shareholders are essential. Shares may be issued for cash without pre-emptive rights or for compensation purposes, subject to shareholder approval. Companies should adhere to strict limits for issuing new shares as a proportion of the issued share capital. Furthermore, they should also be subject to flow rates, where appropriate.
We believe that pre-emptive rights for existing shareholders are essential. Shares may be issued for cash without pre-emptive rights or for compensation purposes, subject to shareholder approval. Companies should adhere to strict limits for issuing new shares as a proportion of the issued share capital. Furthermore, they should also be subject to flow rates, where appropriate.
Share repurchases
We expect companies to repurchase shares in the market when it is advantageous for the company and its shareholders.
We expect companies to repurchase shares in the market when it is advantageous for the company and its shareholders.
Authority to repurchase shares should be subject to shareholder approval.
Controlled companies and share classes with differential voting rights
We favor a share structure that gives all shares equal voting rights. We do not support the issue of shares with impaired or enhanced voting rights.
We favor a share structure that gives all shares equal voting rights. We do not support the issue of shares with impaired or enhanced voting rights.
Where differential voting structures exist, this structure should be transparently disclosed to the market. In the case of controlled companies, we will review any request to issue shares with enhanced voting rights to determine why these are necessary and how they will reflect the interests of minority shareholders. We support the principle of one share, one vote, and encourage
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companies to take steps to eliminate differential voting structures over time or prevent their introduction. Where there are unequal voting rights, we encourage clear and comprehensive disclosure of a timeline regarding the retirement of unequal voting structures (otherwise known as sunset provisions).
Voting caps
We oppose voting caps in principle and believe that all shares should be entitled to full voting rights irrespective of the holding period. However, we recognize the widespread use of voting caps in certain markets, and the benefits accruing to shareholders not subject to a cap. Therefore, at a minimum, we expect companies to clearly disclose any caps and encourage them not to introduce new caps while phasing out existing caps over time.
We oppose voting caps in principle and believe that all shares should be entitled to full voting rights irrespective of the holding period. However, we recognize the widespread use of voting caps in certain markets, and the benefits accruing to shareholders not subject to a cap. Therefore, at a minimum, we expect companies to clearly disclose any caps and encourage them not to introduce new caps while phasing out existing caps over time.
Mergers and acquisitions, spin-offs and other corporate restructuring
We expect boards to conduct thorough due diligence prior to pursuing any merger or acquisition and to maximize shareholder value in any deal. Where major transactions are not subject to shareholder approval, companies should consider the views of their major shareholders, subject to regulatory constraints and shareholders’ policies concerning insiders.
We expect boards to conduct thorough due diligence prior to pursuing any merger or acquisition and to maximize shareholder value in any deal. Where major transactions are not subject to shareholder approval, companies should consider the views of their major shareholders, subject to regulatory constraints and shareholders’ policies concerning insiders.
We consider the ESG risk implications of any corporate activity as part of the assessment of such activity, particularly in high-impact industries. We also expect the board to evaluate any potential ESG or ethical risks or liabilities of any business combination, including supply chains.
Poison pills
We regard artificial devices to deter bids, known as poison pills, as inappropriate and inefficient unless they are strictly controlled and very limited in duration. We believe that any control-enhancing mechanism or poison pill that entrenches management and protects the company from market pressures is not in the interests of shareholders.
We regard artificial devices to deter bids, known as poison pills, as inappropriate and inefficient unless they are strictly controlled and very limited in duration. We believe that any control-enhancing mechanism or poison pill that entrenches management and protects the company from market pressures is not in the interests of shareholders.
Pension and other similar significant corporate liabilities
Companies should be aware of, and report to shareholders on, significant liabilities such as those arising from unfunded or under-funded pension commitments. The extent of the liability should be reported, and the plans put in place to cover the deficit should also be reported within a reasonable timeframe for action. The principal assumptions used in calculating amounts should form part of this disclosure. Other significant liabilities could include specific operational or ESG risks that the company faces. The company should provide some indication of how these risks can result in “contingent liabilities.”
Companies should be aware of, and report to shareholders on, significant liabilities such as those arising from unfunded or under-funded pension commitments. The extent of the liability should be reported, and the plans put in place to cover the deficit should also be reported within a reasonable timeframe for action. The principal assumptions used in calculating amounts should form part of this disclosure. Other significant liabilities could include specific operational or ESG risks that the company faces. The company should provide some indication of how these risks can result in “contingent liabilities.”
Shareholder resolutions
We consider all shareholder resolutions that appear on the ballot and vote in accordance with our view of the long-term economic benefit to shareholders. On this basis we will typically support requests to improve board accountability, executive pay practices, ESG disclosure and climate change scenario analyses where we agree with both the broader issue highlighted as well as the implementation proposed. We also typically support shareholder proposals asking companies to report on implementation of environmental and social policies and assessments where there is reason for concern that links to financially material risks that could impact the performance of the company. We will review company and outside data and information, assess peers for benchmarking and consider the proponents’ and company’s arguments in full.
We consider all shareholder resolutions that appear on the ballot and vote in accordance with our view of the long-term economic benefit to shareholders. On this basis we will typically support requests to improve board accountability, executive pay practices, ESG disclosure and climate change scenario analyses where we agree with both the broader issue highlighted as well as the implementation proposed. We also typically support shareholder proposals asking companies to report on implementation of environmental and social policies and assessments where there is reason for concern that links to financially material risks that could impact the performance of the company. We will review company and outside data and information, assess peers for benchmarking and consider the proponents’ and company’s arguments in full.
7 Reporting
Companies should have meaningful and transparent disclosure so that investors can obtain a clear understanding of all important and relevant issues. The annual report should provide a full review of the business model and strategy; key performance indicators used to gauge how the company is progressing against its objectives; principal (material) risks and any significant factors affecting the company’s future performance, including significant ESG or ethical issues; key achievements; and standards followed during the accounting period.
In all markets, we favor reports that are:
■
Comprehensive, covering the strategic direction of the business and all material issues, including any significant changes in the regulatory context and key ESG issues;
■
Balanced, with even-handed treatment of both good and bad aspects of a company;
■
Transparent, with narrative text that leverages plain language, and accounting notes that provide investors with a full understanding of the circumstances underlying the reported figures;
■
Underpinned by Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that drive business performance, are comparable over time, and are supported by detailed information on how they are calculated;
■
Consistent and joined-up with other company reporting, including the compensation policy and corporate social responsibility or sustainability reporting.
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Directors
Adequate biographical information on the directors should be provided for shareholders in advance of the AGM. This should include information about directors’ qualifications and experience, term of office, date of first appointment, level of independence, board committee memberships and other personal and professional commitments that may influence the quality of their contribution and independence (e.g., other directorships, family and social ties, and affiliations with related companies or organizations). For all newly appointed directors, we encourage disclosure of qualifications, experiences and skills that are considered by the board to be of relevance and importance to its oversight of company strategy. To this end, we encourage disclosure of a clear and concise board skills matrix in the proxy voting materials and annual report.
Adequate biographical information on the directors should be provided for shareholders in advance of the AGM. This should include information about directors’ qualifications and experience, term of office, date of first appointment, level of independence, board committee memberships and other personal and professional commitments that may influence the quality of their contribution and independence (e.g., other directorships, family and social ties, and affiliations with related companies or organizations). For all newly appointed directors, we encourage disclosure of qualifications, experiences and skills that are considered by the board to be of relevance and importance to its oversight of company strategy. To this end, we encourage disclosure of a clear and concise board skills matrix in the proxy voting materials and annual report.
Nomination committee report
The committee should report annually on its activity and the report should provide a detailed discussion of its process for identifying and appointing executive and non-executive directors, including the processes it employs to ensure board membership reflects an appropriate diversity of perspectives, experiences, gender and racial or ethnic representation as well as cultural backgrounds. Where necessary, the report should include a thorough discussion of the board’s view of the independence of certain members. The report should also include a robust description of the board evaluation process, cadence, and outcomes (including strengths and opportunities identified).
The committee should report annually on its activity and the report should provide a detailed discussion of its process for identifying and appointing executive and non-executive directors, including the processes it employs to ensure board membership reflects an appropriate diversity of perspectives, experiences, gender and racial or ethnic representation as well as cultural backgrounds. Where necessary, the report should include a thorough discussion of the board’s view of the independence of certain members. The report should also include a robust description of the board evaluation process, cadence, and outcomes (including strengths and opportunities identified).
Audit committee report
The audit committee should report on its conduct during the year and, in particular, any specific matters of judgement relating to the application of accounting principles or the scope of the audit. It should also comment on the process for ensuring the independence of the auditors and for evaluating the impact of non-audit work. The audit committee report should include a narrative description of any related-party transactions, with reference to how these might impact the interests of minority shareholders. Any qualification of the audit statement and all matters raised in the auditor’s report must be fully explained.
The audit committee should report on its conduct during the year and, in particular, any specific matters of judgement relating to the application of accounting principles or the scope of the audit. It should also comment on the process for ensuring the independence of the auditors and for evaluating the impact of non-audit work. The audit committee report should include a narrative description of any related-party transactions, with reference to how these might impact the interests of minority shareholders. Any qualification of the audit statement and all matters raised in the auditor’s report must be fully explained.
System of internal controls and risk management
If the audit committee’s remit includes risk management, the audit committee report should also address the board’s oversight of enterprise-wide risks. Either as part of the audit committee report or a standalone report, the company should explain the results of the board’s review of internal controls, including any identified (or potential) weaknesses in internal controls and how the board plans to respond to these.
If the audit committee’s remit includes risk management, the audit committee report should also address the board’s oversight of enterprise-wide risks. Either as part of the audit committee report or a standalone report, the company should explain the results of the board’s review of internal controls, including any identified (or potential) weaknesses in internal controls and how the board plans to respond to these.
Compensation report
We expect all companies to publish an annual compensation report in line with international good governance standards. Good compensation reporting outlines a company’s overall philosophy and its policies and formulas for determining annual, short- and long-term pay. We look for compensation reports to break down fixed versus variable pay and to clearly align total pay packages with long-term shareholder value. The compensation report should clearly disclose specific long-term performance targets and total potential pay-outs.
We expect all companies to publish an annual compensation report in line with international good governance standards. Good compensation reporting outlines a company’s overall philosophy and its policies and formulas for determining annual, short- and long-term pay. We look for compensation reports to break down fixed versus variable pay and to clearly align total pay packages with long-term shareholder value. The compensation report should clearly disclose specific long-term performance targets and total potential pay-outs.
If short-term performance targets cannot be disclosed due to commercial sensitivity, we expect retrospective disclosure of short- term targets and of actual performance against these targets.
We recommend that all companies put the compensation report to a shareholder vote and encourage compensation committee members to actively consult their shareholders prior to the AGM.
Sustainability reporting
We encourage companies to report on any significant ESG or ethical risks and opportunities in their annual reports including the systems in place to manage these risks. This may be supported by more detailed disclosure in a separate corporate social responsibility or sustainability report.
We encourage companies to report on any significant ESG or ethical risks and opportunities in their annual reports including the systems in place to manage these risks. This may be supported by more detailed disclosure in a separate corporate social responsibility or sustainability report.
Code of corporate governance
Companies should provide a full and clear statement of all matters relating to the application of the provisions of the relevant national code of corporate governance. The way the provisions are put into effect should be clearly discussed. Any deviations should be supported by meaningful explanations.
Companies should provide a full and clear statement of all matters relating to the application of the provisions of the relevant national code of corporate governance. The way the provisions are put into effect should be clearly discussed. Any deviations should be supported by meaningful explanations.
Code of conduct
Companies should maintain a code of conduct reflecting corporate values and promotion of ethical business practices. Such codes should address business-critical compliance issues including anti-corruption practices.
Companies should maintain a code of conduct reflecting corporate values and promotion of ethical business practices. Such codes should address business-critical compliance issues including anti-corruption practices.
Reincorporation in a tax or governance haven
Irrespective of the potential benefits a smaller tax burden may bring, we will typically vote against resolutions for a company to reincorporate in a new legal jurisdiction that offers lower legal and governance protections to shareholders. Aggressive tax strategies, even if structured legally, can pose potentially significant reputational and commercial risks for companies.
Irrespective of the potential benefits a smaller tax burden may bring, we will typically vote against resolutions for a company to reincorporate in a new legal jurisdiction that offers lower legal and governance protections to shareholders. Aggressive tax strategies, even if structured legally, can pose potentially significant reputational and commercial risks for companies.
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We expect boards to ensure the company’s approach to tax policy is both prudent and sustainable. To that end, we therefore expect companies to disclose how the board is providing such oversight. Companies should provide a suitable amount of information for investors to understand their tax practices and associated risks
Listings
Companies that are listed on an exchange should comply with the rules and listing requirements of that exchange.
Companies that are listed on an exchange should comply with the rules and listing requirements of that exchange.
Shareholder resolutions and access to the proxy statement
Shareholder resolutions represent the exercise of a key shareholder right and may encompass a wide range of issues. We encourage companies to engage in constructive dialogue with shareholders and other key stakeholders. Where engagement is unsuccessful, we support shareholders’ right to submit a shareholder proposal for consideration by all investors. In these instances, companies should behave respectfully by communicating promptly and fully with shareholders while refraining from obstructing the process. The board should provide a full and reasoned response to any shareholder proposal on the ballot. We consider all shareholder resolutions put forward and vote in accordance with our understanding of the long-term economic benefit to shareholders. We may support shareholder resolutions relating to the right to nominate or remove directors, including those related to an advisory shareholder vote on pay. We will incorporate into our decision whether a shareholder resolution is binding in nature or advisory (non-binding) in applying the above considerations.
Shareholder resolutions represent the exercise of a key shareholder right and may encompass a wide range of issues. We encourage companies to engage in constructive dialogue with shareholders and other key stakeholders. Where engagement is unsuccessful, we support shareholders’ right to submit a shareholder proposal for consideration by all investors. In these instances, companies should behave respectfully by communicating promptly and fully with shareholders while refraining from obstructing the process. The board should provide a full and reasoned response to any shareholder proposal on the ballot. We consider all shareholder resolutions put forward and vote in accordance with our understanding of the long-term economic benefit to shareholders. We may support shareholder resolutions relating to the right to nominate or remove directors, including those related to an advisory shareholder vote on pay. We will incorporate into our decision whether a shareholder resolution is binding in nature or advisory (non-binding) in applying the above considerations.
8 Social and environmental factors
Environmental and social factors can present serious risks to corporations and their ability to generate shareholder returns. A well-run company should, therefore, have formal systems to identify, assess and manage significant risks associated with financially material environmental and social factors. Companies should publicly disclose such factors on a regular basis and detail any management-related strategies and targets.
Disclosure should cover both direct operations and, where relevant, the policies applied to their supply chains. Companies should make appropriate and integrated disclosures reflecting touch points to their strategy, research and development, capital expenditures, operational performance, and commercial aspirations.
In general, we evaluate environmental and social proposals based on the relevance of the issue to the company and the desirability of the specific action requested in the proposals to advance long-term shareholder value. We recognize that some proposals may identify important company risks even if the proposal is poorly constructed. In such cases, we encourage companies to identify, mitigate and report on their respective risk management approach effectively.
Environmental and social management
Companies should determine how financially material environmental and social risks and opportunities are addressed via their core business strategy. As part of this process, companies should proactively identify, assess and manage those risks and opportunities, as well as implement robust sustainability governance frameworks to promote accountability and ensure effective oversight. We expect companies to align their disclosure of environmental and social policies, management systems and performance according to internationally accepted standards. We also expect companies to quantify impacts from environmental and social factors and set targets to mitigate and manage material sustainability risks and impacts.
Companies should determine how financially material environmental and social risks and opportunities are addressed via their core business strategy. As part of this process, companies should proactively identify, assess and manage those risks and opportunities, as well as implement robust sustainability governance frameworks to promote accountability and ensure effective oversight. We expect companies to align their disclosure of environmental and social policies, management systems and performance according to internationally accepted standards. We also expect companies to quantify impacts from environmental and social factors and set targets to mitigate and manage material sustainability risks and impacts.
We have set out our detailed thoughts for environmental and social practices in stand-alone documents available on our website.
We may withhold support from management resolutions should we deem companies’ responses to involvement in significant environmental or social controversies as insufficient, or where we have concerns about recurrent weak practices by companies in high-impact industries.
We may vote in favor of shareholder resolutions seeking improvements in reporting and/or management of environmental or social practices where we have concerns, acting in the best economic interest of our clients, or improvements are proportionate to the risks faced.
Climate change
We recognize that climate change and the global transition to a lower-carbon economy present both risks and opportunities to businesses. We are supporters of both CDP (formerly, the Carbon Disclosure Project) and the recommendations of the Taskforce on Climate Related Financial Disclosuresiii and expect to see companies report climate risks and strategy against the proper standards and frameworks. We also support company efforts to implement net zero targets; however, the company should disclose specifics as to how they will accomplish this.
We recognize that climate change and the global transition to a lower-carbon economy present both risks and opportunities to businesses. We are supporters of both CDP (formerly, the Carbon Disclosure Project) and the recommendations of the Taskforce on Climate Related Financial Disclosuresiii and expect to see companies report climate risks and strategy against the proper standards and frameworks. We also support company efforts to implement net zero targets; however, the company should disclose specifics as to how they will accomplish this.
Some companies may be exposed to business risks stemming from the effects of climate change either directly via their business operations, regulations, changing consumer demand or through supply chains. Where these are financially material risks, companies should describe how their business strategy incorporates climate risk and ensure adequate disclosure.
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Where companies in high-impact sectors—e.g., those requested to disclose to CDP Climate Change—fail to provide investment-relevant climate disclosure or do not have a robust climate change risk management strategy, we may not support management resolutions, including the report and accounts or the election of directors if we think this is in the best economic interests of our clients.
Where there are matters of concern, we may support shareholder resolutions calling on companies to improve their business planning and public disclosure in relation to climate change risks and opportunities.
We will make use of investor tools such as the Climate Action 100+ Net Zero Company Benchmark, the Transition Pathway Initiative, our own proprietary net zero tool as well as engagements we’ve conducted to identify companies that fail to follow best practice.
Biodiversity
Loss of biodiversity degrades ecosystems which underpin the Earth’s ability to provide regulating, provisioning, cultural and supporting ecosystem benefits. For companies in sectors with high biodiversity impact that fail to provide appropriate disclosure (e.g., CDP Water Security and/or Forests disclosures), we may not support management resolutions if we think this is in the best economic interests of our clients.
Loss of biodiversity degrades ecosystems which underpin the Earth’s ability to provide regulating, provisioning, cultural and supporting ecosystem benefits. For companies in sectors with high biodiversity impact that fail to provide appropriate disclosure (e.g., CDP Water Security and/or Forests disclosures), we may not support management resolutions if we think this is in the best economic interests of our clients.
Sustainability and integrated reporting
A company’s recognition and management of financially material environmental and social exposures and related disclosures provides shareholders with an additional lens through which to assess the quality, leadership, strategic focus, risk management and operational standards of practice of the business.
A company’s recognition and management of financially material environmental and social exposures and related disclosures provides shareholders with an additional lens through which to assess the quality, leadership, strategic focus, risk management and operational standards of practice of the business.
Disclosure of significant environmental and social risk factors should be included in the annual report. Certain high risk or high impact operations that are of substantial interest to investors and the public may require modular reporting alongside reporting that aggregates all company activity. We recommend disclosure in line with internationally accepted standards of best practice which enhances our understanding of a company’s ability to create and sustain value in the short, medium and long term.
Audit of social and environmental management systems
We appreciate that auditing and assurance practices for environmental and social systems require further development; nevertheless, we consider third-party auditing of sustainability reports to be best practice. We encourage companies to move towards third-party verification.
We appreciate that auditing and assurance practices for environmental and social systems require further development; nevertheless, we consider third-party auditing of sustainability reports to be best practice. We encourage companies to move towards third-party verification.
Labour practices and standards
Companies may incur significant risks because of the employment practices of their own operations and those of their suppliers and sub-contractors. Codes of conduct that address such risks and include detailed and effective procedures for their supply chain are usually in companies’ best interests.
Companies may incur significant risks because of the employment practices of their own operations and those of their suppliers and sub-contractors. Codes of conduct that address such risks and include detailed and effective procedures for their supply chain are usually in companies’ best interests.
Where there is cause for concern, we favor codes based on internationally recognized standards (e.g., core conventions of the International Labour Organization), independent monitoring or auditing of implementation, and reporting of aggregate audit results. We look for regular, public reporting on code implementation.
Human rights
Companies may incur extraordinary risks to their operations, staff, or reputation as a result of operating in conflict zones or in locations at risk of human rights abuses. Risks may also be encountered via supply chains when primary product inputs are sourced from at-risk areas. Where there is cause for concern, we support resolutions asking companies to develop and implement policies and management systems addressing human rights and security management. These policies should reflect internationally recognized standards (e.g., United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights) and should apply to suppliers and sub-contractors.
Companies may incur extraordinary risks to their operations, staff, or reputation as a result of operating in conflict zones or in locations at risk of human rights abuses. Risks may also be encountered via supply chains when primary product inputs are sourced from at-risk areas. Where there is cause for concern, we support resolutions asking companies to develop and implement policies and management systems addressing human rights and security management. These policies should reflect internationally recognized standards (e.g., United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights) and should apply to suppliers and sub-contractors.
Severe human and labor rights issues often affect the most vulnerable communities and can represent a threat to reputational and operational corporate performance. They are referenced in various international standards and conventions and are linked to existingiv or evolvingv regulations that issuers may be subject to.
We believe that effective mitigation of these issues can contribute to sustainable long-term value creation by the companies in which we choose to invest. At companies identified as being most at risk with insufficient mitigation strategies, we may not support management resolutions, including the report and accounts or election of directors if we think this is in the best economic interests of our clients.
Diversity and equal employment opportunity
Recruiting and hiring from the widest possible talent pool is in the best interests of companies, as is maintaining a diverse workforce. We support efforts to strengthen non-discrimination policies, achieve diversity objectives and address glass ceilings at all levels within organizations. We welcome disclosure of specific diversity targets and reporting on performance against these targets, as well as reporting on gender and ethnicity pay gaps within companies and plans to address these. We will look for
Recruiting and hiring from the widest possible talent pool is in the best interests of companies, as is maintaining a diverse workforce. We support efforts to strengthen non-discrimination policies, achieve diversity objectives and address glass ceilings at all levels within organizations. We welcome disclosure of specific diversity targets and reporting on performance against these targets, as well as reporting on gender and ethnicity pay gaps within companies and plans to address these. We will look for
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disclosure of how measures to increase diversity have been applied and the management and oversight of these measures. In an environment where many industries and companies are facing shortages of skilled workers, thus increasing competition for talent, it is advisable and appropriate for company policies and practices to exceed legal requirements in order to attract and retain employees.
Political and charitable donations
Charitable and political donations should be consistent with the company’s stated sustainability strategy. (See “Reporting” above). We recommend that the board provide ultimate oversight for political donations and related activity. Furthermore, we believe that companies that undertake charitable giving should have transparent policies and undertake charitable giving programs with due regard for the interests of shareholders and key stakeholders.
Charitable and political donations should be consistent with the company’s stated sustainability strategy. (See “Reporting” above). We recommend that the board provide ultimate oversight for political donations and related activity. Furthermore, we believe that companies that undertake charitable giving should have transparent policies and undertake charitable giving programs with due regard for the interests of shareholders and key stakeholders.
Environmental stewardship
Companies should determine how key environmental risks and opportunities fit into their core business strategy. As part of this process, companies should identify, assess, and manage their environmental impacts. This may include minimizing key environmental impacts, reporting on environmental management systems and performance, and discussing related financial impacts. Areas of increasing business interest include energy use, emissions, water, waste, and the utilization of natural resources.
Companies should determine how key environmental risks and opportunities fit into their core business strategy. As part of this process, companies should identify, assess, and manage their environmental impacts. This may include minimizing key environmental impacts, reporting on environmental management systems and performance, and discussing related financial impacts. Areas of increasing business interest include energy use, emissions, water, waste, and the utilization of natural resources.
9 Voting matters
Annual general meetings
Although we supported company efforts to hold virtual-only AGMs during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, we encourage a return to physical annual meetings of the shareholders that are supplemented with a robust and accessible virtual (or hybrid) option. If the company decides to provide a hybrid meeting, shareholders joining virtually should be provided the same treatment and transparency as those attending in-person.
Although we supported company efforts to hold virtual-only AGMs during the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, we encourage a return to physical annual meetings of the shareholders that are supplemented with a robust and accessible virtual (or hybrid) option. If the company decides to provide a hybrid meeting, shareholders joining virtually should be provided the same treatment and transparency as those attending in-person.
Vote disclosure
We expect companies to disclose the voting results of their general meetings, both at the meeting and on their websites. This should include a detailed breakdown of votes for and against, as well as abstentions.
We expect companies to disclose the voting results of their general meetings, both at the meeting and on their websites. This should include a detailed breakdown of votes for and against, as well as abstentions.
In the spirit of transparency, we also make available to both our institutional and retail fund customers, as well as to the public, a comprehensive record of our voting by publishing all our votes and comments on our website.vi A summary of our voting statistics can be found in our annual Stewardship report.
Shareblocking
We believe that shareblocking—the practice of preventing shares from being transferred for a fixed period prior to the vote at a company meeting—discourages shareholder participation and should be replaced with a record date. Where shareblocking exists, we will follow client policy and may be prevented from voting because of concerns about failed trade settlements and extraordinary cost to clients.
We believe that shareblocking—the practice of preventing shares from being transferred for a fixed period prior to the vote at a company meeting—discourages shareholder participation and should be replaced with a record date. Where shareblocking exists, we will follow client policy and may be prevented from voting because of concerns about failed trade settlements and extraordinary cost to clients.
Electronic voting and of use proxy advisory services
We typically exercise voting rights electronically. We currently vote using ProxyExchange, the electronic voting platform provided by Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS). We do not follow ISS vote recommendations, except as provided for in our Conflict of Interest Policy or if instructed by clients. Instead, ISS assists us though pre-populating our vote instructions in accordance with our vote policies. Our Responsible Investment team reviews a proportion of meetings based on an internal prioritization model.
We typically exercise voting rights electronically. We currently vote using ProxyExchange, the electronic voting platform provided by Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS). We do not follow ISS vote recommendations, except as provided for in our Conflict of Interest Policy or if instructed by clients. Instead, ISS assists us though pre-populating our vote instructions in accordance with our vote policies. Our Responsible Investment team reviews a proportion of meetings based on an internal prioritization model.
Position on abstentions
Our standard voting approach is to either vote for or against resolutions where these options are available to shareholders. However, there are cases where we consider abstaining to be appropriate—for example, where company practices have improved significantly but do not fully meet our expectations.
Our standard voting approach is to either vote for or against resolutions where these options are available to shareholders. However, there are cases where we consider abstaining to be appropriate—for example, where company practices have improved significantly but do not fully meet our expectations.
With respect to shareholder resolutions, we may abstain in cases where we agree with the broader issue highlighted but do not agree with the way in which the resolution prescribes change.
Additional soliciting materials
If we become aware that an issuer has filed additional soliciting materials prior to a proxy vote submission deadline, then we endeavor to review and reflect those in the application of our voting policy where: (a) the submission is published at least five days prior to our earliest client vote cut-off; and (b) the enclosed information is considered to be material towards impacting our voting position.
If we become aware that an issuer has filed additional soliciting materials prior to a proxy vote submission deadline, then we endeavor to review and reflect those in the application of our voting policy where: (a) the submission is published at least five days prior to our earliest client vote cut-off; and (b) the enclosed information is considered to be material towards impacting our voting position.
Stocklending
We observe that stock lending is a widespread market practice involving the sale and contractually pre-agreed repurchase of a stock. We believe that stock lending is an important factor in preserving the liquidity of markets and in facilitating hedging
We observe that stock lending is a widespread market practice involving the sale and contractually pre-agreed repurchase of a stock. We believe that stock lending is an important factor in preserving the liquidity of markets and in facilitating hedging
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strategies; it can also provide investors with a significant additional return on their investments as the sale repurchase transaction may include a profit margin. Importantly, however, if the term of the instrument coincides with an annual or extraordinary general meeting, the transfer of the voting right impairs the ability of the underlying shareowner to exercise their voting rights. In rare instances, this has led to abuse, where borrowers have deliberately entered into transactions to sway the outcome of a shareholder vote without any intention of owning the stock long-term. We consider the balance struck between stock lending and voting to be a matter for individual decision-making by clients.
Record dates
We recommend that a record date be set a maximum of five working days prior to AGMs for custodians and registrars to clearly establish those shareholders eligible to vote. This will give time for all relevant formalities to be completed and serves the same purpose as shareblocking without the disruptions noted above.
We recommend that a record date be set a maximum of five working days prior to AGMs for custodians and registrars to clearly establish those shareholders eligible to vote. This will give time for all relevant formalities to be completed and serves the same purpose as shareblocking without the disruptions noted above.
Voting systems
All companies should conduct voting by poll, rather than relying on a show of hands.
All companies should conduct voting by poll, rather than relying on a show of hands.
We believe that shareholders have the right to appoint any reasonable person as proxy to vote their shares, either in person or electronically.
We encourage the introduction of electronic voting systems that are accurate and provide an effective audit trail of votes cast.
Bundled resolutions
Resolutions put to company meetings should cover single issues, or issues that are clearly interdependent. Any other practice potentially reduces the value of votes and can lead to opposition to otherwise acceptable proposals. We will normally oppose resolutions that contain such inappropriately bundled provisions.
Resolutions put to company meetings should cover single issues, or issues that are clearly interdependent. Any other practice potentially reduces the value of votes and can lead to opposition to otherwise acceptable proposals. We will normally oppose resolutions that contain such inappropriately bundled provisions.
Any other business
We expect to vote on resolutions where the content has been made clear to shareholders and is in the interests of the company and its shareholders. Where a resolution invites shareholders to vote on “any other business,” we will systematically vote against.
We expect to vote on resolutions where the content has been made clear to shareholders and is in the interests of the company and its shareholders. Where a resolution invites shareholders to vote on “any other business,” we will systematically vote against.
Political and charitable donations
We welcome the opportunity to vote on company donations if material. With respect to donations to political parties or to organizations closely associated with political parties, we believe the board is best positioned to oversee the appropriateness of such spending and should review as often as is necessary to ensure congruency with both corporate strategy and values.
We welcome the opportunity to vote on company donations if material. With respect to donations to political parties or to organizations closely associated with political parties, we believe the board is best positioned to oversee the appropriateness of such spending and should review as often as is necessary to ensure congruency with both corporate strategy and values.
Amendments to Articles
We are generally unsupportive of amendments to the articles of incorporation which limit the liability of company officers.
We are generally unsupportive of amendments to the articles of incorporation which limit the liability of company officers.
Endnotes:
i
The following guidelines do not apply to Pyrford International Ltd.
ii
Such interlocking relationships can raise concerns when there is an imbalance of power between the two directors.
iii
https://www.fsb-tcfd.org/publications/final-recommendations-report/.
iv
UK Modern Slavery Act, OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises.
v
EU corporate mandatory human rights due diligence, Swiss mandatory human rights DD (focus weapons), German Supply Chain Code
vi
See vote disclosure webpage here.
[SAI________]
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PART C. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 25. Financial Statements and Exhibits
1. Financial Statements
Part A. Financial Highlights for the ten years ended December 31, 2023 and for the six months ended June 30, 2024.
Part B. The required financial statements are included in the Fund’s 2023 Annual Report and in the Fund’s 2024 Semiannual Report, which are incorporated by reference into the Statement of Additional Information. These statements include: Portfolio of Investments at December 31, 2023 and June 30, 2024; Statement of Assets and Liabilities at December 31, 2023 and June 30, 2024; Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2023 and for the six-month period ended June 30, 2024; Statements of Changes in Net Assets for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 and for the six-month period ended June 30, 2024; Notes to Financial Statements; Financial Highlights for the ten years ended December 31, 2023 and for the semiannual period ended June 30, 2024; Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
The Fund’s future stockholder reports are hereby incorporated by reference.
2. Exhibits
| Exhibit Number |
Exhibit Description |
Filed Herewith or Incorporated by Reference |
Information About the Filing that Includes the Document Incorporated by Reference | ||||
| Registrant that Made the Filing |
File No. of Such Registrant |
Type of Filing |
Exhibit of Document in that Filing |
Filing Date | |||
| (a)(1) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-161752 |
Registration Statement on Form N-2 |
(a) |
9/4/2009 | |
| (a)(2) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-161752 |
Post-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(a)(1) |
3/14/2016 | |
| (b) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-161752 |
Post-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(b) |
3/14/2016 | |
| (c) |
Not applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| (d) |
Not applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| (e) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(e) |
10/30/2024 | |
| (f) |
Not applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| (g)(1) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-161752 |
Post-Effective Amendment #2 on Form N-2 |
(g) |
4/28/2016 | |
| (g)(2) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(g)(2) |
10/30/2024 | |
| (h)(1) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(h)(1) |
10/30/2024 | |
| (h)(2) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(h)(2) |
10/30/2024 | |
| Exhibit Number |
Exhibit Description |
Filed Herewith or Incorporated by Reference |
Information About the Filing that Includes the Document Incorporated by Reference | ||||
| Registrant that Made the Filing |
File No. of Such Registrant |
Type of Filing |
Exhibit of Document in that Filing |
Filing Date | |||
| (h)(3) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(h)(3) |
10/30/2024 | |
| (h)(4) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(h)(4) |
10/30/2024 | |
| (h)(5) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(h)(5) |
10/30/2024 | |
| (h)(6) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-161752 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #4 on Form N-2 |
(h)(8) |
11/24/2009 | |
| (h)(7) |
Incorporated by reference |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Registration Statement |
(h)(9) |
6/26/2024 | |
| (h)(7)(i) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(h)(7)(i) |
10/30/2024 | |
| (i) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Funds Series Trust II |
333-131683 |
Post-Effective Amendment #218 on Form N-1A |
(f) |
2/25/2021 | |
| (j) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Funds Series Trust |
333-89661 |
Post-Effective Amendment #93 on Form N-1A |
(g)(3) |
5/27/2011 | |
| (k)(1) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(k)(1) |
10/30/2024 | |
| (k)(2) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Funds Series Trust II |
333-131683 |
Post-Effective Amendment #179 on Form N-1A |
(h)(11) |
5/25/2018 | |
| (k)(2)(i) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Funds Series Trust I |
2-99356 |
Post-Effective Amendment #418 on Form N-1A |
(h)(10)(i) |
7/26/2024 | |
| (k)(3) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Tri-Continental Corporation |
333-255533 |
Post-Effective Amendment #2 on Form N-2 |
(k)(3) |
6/2/2022 | |
| (k)(4) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Tri-Continental Corporation |
333-255533 |
Post-Effective Amendment #2 on Form N-2 |
(k)(4) |
6/2/2022 | |
| Exhibit Number |
Exhibit Description |
Filed Herewith or Incorporated by Reference |
Information About the Filing that Includes the Document Incorporated by Reference | ||||
| Registrant that Made the Filing |
File No. of Such Registrant |
Type of Filing |
Exhibit of Document in that Filing |
Filing Date | |||
| (l)(1) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-161752 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #3 on Form N-2 |
(l)(1) |
10/23/2009 | |
| (l)(2) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-161752 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #3 on Form N-2 |
(l)(2) |
10/23/2009 | |
| (l)(3) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(l)(3) |
10/30/2024 | |
| (l)(4) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Registration Statement |
(l)(4) |
6/26/2024 | |
| (m) |
Not Applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| (n) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registration Statement on Form N-2 |
(n) |
10/30/2024 | |
| (o) |
Not Applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| (p) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-161752 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #2 on Form N-2 |
(p) |
10/22/2009 | |
| (q) |
Not Applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| (r)(1) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Funds Variable Series Trust II |
333-146374 |
Post-Effective Amendment #68 on Form N-1A |
(p)(1) |
4/26/2019 | |
| (r)(2) |
Incorporated by Reference |
Columbia Funds Series Trust II |
333-131683 |
Post-Effective Amendment #241 on Form N-1A |
(p)(2) |
12/21/2023 | |
| (s) |
Filed Herewith |
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. |
333-280485 |
Pre-Effective Amendment #1 on Form N-2 |
(s) |
10/30/2024 | |
Item 26. Marketing Arrangements.
See Distribution Agreement with respect to the Rule 415 offering filed by Pre-Effective Amendment.
Item 27. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution.
The following table sets forth the estimated expenses to be incurred by the Registrant in connection with the offering described in this Registration Statement:
| |
|
| SEC Registration Fees |
$0 |
| FINRA Fees |
$0 |
| New York Stock Exchange Fees |
$0 |
| Costs of Printing (other than stock certificates) |
$0 |
| Accounting Fees and Expenses |
$0 |
| Legal Fees and Expenses |
$0 |
| |
|
| Miscellaneous |
$0 |
| Total |
$0 |
* Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, the Registrant’s Investment Manager, will pay expenses of the Registrant's Rule 415 “at-the-market” offering (other than the applicable commissions).
Item 28. Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with Registrant.
None.
Item 29. Number of Holders of Securities.
As of September 30, 2024
| Title of Class |
Number of Recordholders |
| Common Stock |
74 |
Item 30. Indemnification.
Maryland law permits a Maryland corporation to include in its charter a provision eliminating the liability of its directors and officers to the corporation and its stockholders for money damages except for liability resulting from (a) actual receipt of an improper benefit or profit in money, property or services or (b) active and deliberate dishonesty that is established by a final judgment and is material to the cause of action. The Fund’s charter contains such a provision which eliminates directors’ and officers’ liability to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law, subject to the requirements of the Investment Company Act.
The Fund’s charter authorizes it, to the maximum extent permitted by Maryland law, to obligate the Fund, and the Fund’s Bylaws so obligate the Fund, to indemnify any present or former Director or officer or any individual who, while a Director or officer of the Fund and at the request of the Fund, serves or has served another corporation, real estate investment trust, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise as a director, officer, partner or trustee and who is made, or threatened to be made, a party to the proceeding by reason of his or her service in that capacity, from and against any claim or liability to which that individual may become subject or which that individual may incur by reason of his or her service in that capacity and to pay or reimburse his or her reasonable expenses in advance of final disposition of a proceeding. The Fund’s charter and Bylaws also permit the Fund to indemnify and advance expenses to any individual who served a predecessor of the Fund in any of the capacities described above and any employee or agent of the Fund or a predecessor of the Fund. In accordance with the Investment Company Act, the Fund will not indemnify any person for any liability to which such person would be subject by reason of such person’s willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
Maryland law requires a corporation (unless its charter provides otherwise, which the Fund’s charter does not) to indemnify a director or officer who has been successful, on the merits or otherwise, in the defense of any proceeding to which he or she is made, or threatened to be made, a party by reason of his or her service in that capacity. Maryland law permits a corporation to indemnify its present and former directors and officers, among others, against judgments, penalties, fines, settlements and reasonable expenses actually incurred by them in connection with any proceeding to which they may be made, or threatened to be made, a party by reason of their service in those or other capacities unless it is established that (a) the act or omission of the director or officer was material to the matter giving rise to the proceeding and (i) was committed in bad faith or (ii) was the result of active and deliberate dishonesty, (b) the director or officer actually received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services or (c) in the case of any criminal proceeding, the director or officer had reasonable cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful. However, under Maryland law, a Maryland corporation may not indemnify for an adverse judgment in a suit by or in the right of the corporation or for a judgment of liability on the basis that personal benefit was improperly received, unless in either case a court orders indemnification and then only for expenses. In addition, Maryland law permits a corporation to advance reasonable expenses to a director or officer upon the corporation’s receipt of (a) a written affirmation by the director or officer of his or her good faith belief that he or she has met the standard of conduct necessary for indemnification by the corporation and (b) a written undertaking by him or her or on his or her behalf to repay the amount paid or reimbursed by the corporation if it is ultimately determined that the standard of conduct was not met.
Reference should be made to the Fund’s charter on file with the SEC for the full text of these provisions.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, Registrant has been advised by the SEC that such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of Registrant in the successful defense of any
action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, Registrant will, unless in the opinion of counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question of whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Item 31. Business and Other Connections of Investment Manager.
INVESTMENT MANAGER
The description of the Investment Manager under the caption “Management of the Fund” in the Prospectus and “Investment Management and Other Services” in the Statement of Additional Information of this Registration Statement are incorporated by reference herein. The Investment Manager, a limited liability company organized under the laws of Delaware, acts as Investment Manager to the Registrant. The Registrant is fulfilling the requirement of this Item 30 to provide a list of the officers and directors of the Investment Manager, together with information as to any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature engaged in by the Investment Manager or those officers and directors during the past two years, by incorporating by reference the information contained in the Form ADV of the Investment Manager filed with the commission pursuant to the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (Commission File No. 801-25943), and is incorporated by reference herein.
Item 32. Locations of Accounts and Records.
Persons maintaining physical possession of accounts, books and other documents required to be maintained by Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the Rules thereunder include:
■
Registrant, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA, 02210 and 485 Lexington Avenue,12th Fl, New York, NY 10017;
■
Registrant’s investment adviser and administrator, Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC, 290 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210;
■
Registrant’s stockholder service agent, Equiniti Trust Company, LLC, 6201 15th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11219;
■
Registrant’s custodian, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., 1 Chase Manhattan Plaza, New York, NY 10005;
In addition, Iron Mountain Records Management is an off-site storage facility housing historical records that are no longer required to be maintained on-site. Records stored at this facility include various trading and accounting records, as well as other miscellaneous records. The address for Iron Mountain Records Management is 920 & 950 Apollo Road, Eagan, MN 55121, 175 Bearfoot Road, Northborough, MA, 01532 and 26 Parkway Drive, Scarborough, ME 04074.
Certain information on the above-referenced physical possession of accounts, books and other documents is also included in the Registrant’s filing on Form N-CEN filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 13, 2024.
Item 33. Management Services.
Not applicable
Item 34. Undertakings.
Registrant undertakes:
3.a.
to file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to the registration statement:
(1) to include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933;
(2) to reflect in the prospectus any facts or events after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement; and
(3) to include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or any material change to such information in the registration statement.
3.b.
that, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new Registration Statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of those securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof;
3.c.
to remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.
3.d.
that, for the purpose of determining liability under the Securities Act to any purchaser:
(1) if the Registrant is relying on Rule 430B under the 1933 Act:
(A) Each prospectus filed by the Registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(3) shall be deemed to be part of the registration statement as of the date the filed prospectus was deemed part of and included in the registration statement; and
(B) Each prospectus required to be filed pursuant to Rule 424(b)(2), (b)(5), or (b)(7) as part of a registration statement in reliance on Rule 430B relating to an offering made pursuant to Rule 415(a)(1)(i), (x), or (xi) for the purpose of providing the information required by Section 10(a) of the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of and included in the registration statement as of the earlier of the date such form of prospectus is first used after effectiveness or the date of the first contract of sale of securities in the offering described in the prospectus. As provided in Rule 430B, for liability purposes of the issuer and any person that is at that date an underwriter, such date shall be deemed to be a new effective date of the registration statement relating to the securities in the registration statement to which that prospectus relates, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof. Provided, however, that no statement made in a registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement or made in a document incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference into the registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement will, as to a purchaser with a time of contract of sale prior to such effective date, supersede or modify any statement that was made in the registration statement or prospectus that was part of the registration statement or made in any such document immediately prior to such effective date.
(2) if the Registrant is subject to Rule 430C under the Securities Act:
Each prospectus filed pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the 1933 Act as part of a registration statement relating to an offering, other than registration statements relying on Rule 430B or other than prospectuses filed in reliance on Rule 430A, shall be deemed to be part of and included in the registration statement as of the date it is first used after effectiveness. Provided, however, that no statement made in a registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement or made in a document incorporated or deemed incorporated by reference into the registration statement or prospectus that is part of the registration statement will, as to a purchaser with a time of contract of sale prior to such first use, supersede or modify any statement that was made in the registration statement or prospectus that was part of the registration statement or made in any such document immediately prior to such date of first use.
3.e.
that for the purpose of determining liability of the Registrant under the Securities Act to any purchaser in the initial distribution of securities:
The undersigned Registrant undertakes that in a primary offering of securities of the undersigned Registrant pursuant to this registration statement, regardless of the underwriting method used to sell the securities to the purchaser, if the securities are offered or sold to such purchaser by means of any of the following communications, the undersigned Registrant will be a seller to the purchaser and will be considered to offer or sell such securities to the purchaser:
(1) any preliminary prospectus or prospectus of the undersigned Registrant relating to the offering required to be filed pursuant to Rule 424 under the Securities Act;
(2) free writing prospectus relating to the offering prepared by or on behalf of the undersigned Registrant or used or referred to by the undersigned Registrant;
(3) the portion of any other free writing prospectus or advertisement pursuant to Rule 482 under the Securities Act relating to the offering containing material information about the undersigned Registrant or its securities provided by or on behalf of the undersigned Registrant; and
(4) any other communication that is an offer in the offering made by the undersigned Registrant to the purchaser.
5.
that, for purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the Registrant’s annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that is incorporated by reference into the registration statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
6.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
7.
to send by first class mail or other means designed to ensure equally prompt delivery, within two business days of receipt of a written or oral request, any prospectus or Statement of Additional Information.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant, Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc., has duly caused this Amendment to its Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Boston, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the 30th day of October, 2024.
| Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc. | |
| By: |
/s/ Daniel J. Beckman |
| |
Daniel J. Beckman Director and President |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Amendment to the Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities indicated on the 30th day of October, 2024.
| Signature |
Capacity |
Signature |
Capacity |
| /s/ Daniel J. Beckman |
Director and President (Principal Executive Officer) |
/s/ Patricia M. Flynn* |
Director |
| Daniel J. Beckman |
Patricia M. Flynn | ||
| /s/ Michael G. Clarke* |
Chief Financial Officer, Principal Financial Officer and Senior Vice President |
/s/ Brian J. Gallagher* |
Director |
| Michael G. Clarke |
Brian J. Gallagher | ||
| /s/ Charles H. Chiesa* |
Treasurer, Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer) and Principal Financial Officer |
/s/ Douglas A. Hacker* |
Director |
| Charles H. Chiesa |
Douglas A. Hacker | ||
| /s/ Pamela G. Carlton* |
Director and Chair of the Board |
/s/ David M. Moffett* |
Director |
| Pamela G. Carlton |
David Moffett | ||
| /s/ George S. Batejan* |
Director |
/s/ Catherine James Paglia* |
Director |
| George S. Batejan |
Catherine James Paglia | ||
| /s/ Kathleen A. Blatz* |
Director |
/s/ Sandra Yeager* |
Director |
| Kathleen A. Blatz |
Sandra Yeager | ||
| /s/ Janet Langford Carrig* |
Director |
|
|
| Janet Langford Carrig |
|
|
| * |
By: Name: |
/s/ Joseph D’Alessandro |
|
| Joseph D’Alessandro** Attorney-in-fact |
| ||
| ** |
Executed by Joseph D’Alessandro on behalf of Michael G. Clarke pursuant to a Power of Attorney, dated August 28, 2024, on behalf of Charles H. Chiesa pursuant to a Power of Attorney, dated August 29, 2024 and on behalf of the Directors pursuant to a Power of Attorney, dated September 27, 2024. | ||
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
(the “Registrant”)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each of the undersigned, as directors of the above listed investment company, constitutes and appoints, Christopher O. Petersen, Michael E. DeFao, Ryan C. Larrenaga, Joseph D’Alessandro, and Megan E. Garcy, each individually, as his or her true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent (each an “Attorney-in-Fact”, each with full power of substitution or resubstitution, in any and all capacities, including without limitation in the undersigned’s capacity as a director of the Registrant, in the furtherance of the business and affairs of the Registrant: (i) to execute any and all Registration Statements of the Fund on Form N-2 under the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940 registering securities of the Fund, including any pre-effective and post-effective amendments thereto, with all exhibits in connection with the at the market offering; and (ii) to execute any and all federal, state or foreign regulatory or other required filings, including all applications with regulatory authorities, state charter or organizational documents and any amendments or supplements thereto, to be executed by, on behalf of, or for the benefit of, the Registrant. The undersigned hereby grants to each Attorney-in-Fact full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing contemplated above, as fully and to all intents and purposes as the undersigned might or could do in person, and hereby ratifies and confirms all that said Attorneys-in-Fact, individually or collectively, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
This Power of Attorney shall not be revoked with respect to any undersigned director by any subsequent power of attorney the undersigned may execute unless such subsequent power of attorney specifically refers to this Power of Attorney or specifically states that the instrument is intended to revoke all prior general powers of attorney or all prior powers of attorney (and unless otherwise required by a provision of law that cannot be waived). This Power of Attorney shall terminate automatically with respect to the Registrant if the undersigned ceases to hold the above-referenced office of the Registrant.
Dated: September 27, 2024
| /s/ Pamela G. Carlton |
Director and Chair of the Board |
/s/ Brian J. Gallagher |
Director |
| Pamela G. Carlton |
Brian J. Gallagher | ||
| /s/ George S. Batejan |
Director |
/s/ Douglas A. Hacker |
Director |
| George S. Batejan |
Douglas A. Hacker | ||
| /s/ Daniel J. Beckman |
Director |
/s/ David M. Moffett |
Director |
| Daniel J. Beckman |
David M. Moffett | ||
| /s/ Kathleen A. Blatz |
Director |
/s/ Catherine James Paglia |
Director |
| Kathleen A. Blatz |
Catherine James Paglia | ||
| /s/ Janet Langford Carrig |
|
/s/ Sandra L. Yeager |
|
| Janet Langford Carrig |
Director |
Sandra L. Yeager |
Director |
| /s/ Patricia M. Flynn |
Director |
|
|
| Patricia M. Flynn |
|
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
(the “Registrant”)
Power of attorney
The undersigned constitutes and appoints Christopher O. Petersen, Michael E. DeFao, Ryan C. Larrenaga, Joseph D’Alessandro, and Megan E. Garcy, each individually, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent (each an “Attorney-in-Fact” with full power of substitution or resubstitution, in any and all capacities, including without limitation in the undersigned’s capacity as Chief Financial Officer, Principal Financial Officer and Senior Vice President of the Registrant, in the furtherance of the business and affairs of the Registrant: (i) to execute any and all Registration Statements of the Fund on Form N-2 under the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940 registering securities of the Fund, including any pre-effective and post-effective amendments thereto, with all exhibits; and (ii) to execute any and all federal, state or foreign regulatory or other required filings, including all applications with regulatory authorities, state charter or organizational documents and any amendments or supplements thereto, to be executed by, on behalf of, or for the benefit of, the Registrant. The undersigned hereby grants to each Attorney-in-Fact full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing contemplated above, as fully and to all intents and purposes as the undersigned might or could do in person, and hereby ratifies and confirms all that said Attorneys-in-Fact, individually or collectively, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
This Power of Attorney shall not be revoked by any subsequent power of attorney I may execute unless such subsequent power of attorney specifically refers to this Power of Attorney or specifically states that the instrument is intended to revoke all prior general powers of attorney or all prior powers of attorney (and unless otherwise required by a provision of law that cannot be waived). This Power of Attorney shall terminate automatically with respect to the Registrant if the undersigned ceases to hold the above-referenced office of the Registrant.
Dated: August 28, 2024
/s/ Michael G. Clarke
Michael G. Clarke
Columbia Seligman Premium Technology Growth Fund, Inc.
(the “Registrant”)
POWER OF ATTORNEY
The undersigned constitutes and appoints Christopher O. Petersen, Michael E. DeFao, Ryan C. Larrenaga, Joseph D’Alessandro, and Megan E. Garcy, each individually, his true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent (each an “Attorney-in-Fact” with full power of substitution or resubstitution, in any and all capacities, including without limitation in the undersigned’s capacity as Treasurer, Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer) and Principal Financial Officer of the Registrant, in the furtherance of the business and affairs of the Registrant: (i) to execute any and all Registration Statements of the Fund on Form N-2 under the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940 registering securities of the Fund, including any pre-effective and post-effective amendments thereto, with all exhibits; and (ii) to execute any and all federal, state or foreign regulatory or other required filings, including all applications with regulatory authorities, state charter or organizational documents and any amendments or supplements thereto, to be executed by, on behalf of, or for the benefit of, the Registrant. The undersigned hereby grants to each Attorney-in-Fact full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing contemplated above, as fully and to all intents and purposes as the undersigned might or could do in person, and hereby ratifies and confirms all that said Attorneys-in-Fact, individually or collectively, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
This Power of Attorney shall not be revoked by any subsequent power of attorney I may execute unless such subsequent power of attorney specifically refers to this Power of Attorney or specifically states that the instrument is intended to revoke all prior general powers of attorney or all prior powers of attorney (and unless otherwise required by a provision of law that cannot be waived). This Power of Attorney shall terminate automatically with respect to the Registrant if the undersigned ceases to hold the above-referenced office of the Registrant.
Dated: August 29, 2024
/s/ Charles H. Chiesa
Charles H. Chiesa
Exhibit Index
Exhibits Related to Item 25 of Part C
| (e) |
Dividend Investment Plan |
| (g)(2) |
Schedule A, effective November 15, 2024, to the Management Agreement dated May 1, 2016, between Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC and the Registrant |
| (h)(1) |
Underwriting Agreement, dated November 24, 2009 |
| (h)(2) |
Structuring Fee Agreement between Wells Fargo Securities, LLC and RiverSource Investments, LLC |
| (h)(3) |
Structuring Fee Agreement between UBS Securities LLC and RiverSource Investments, LLC |
| (h)(4) |
Structuring Fee Agreement between Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. and RiverSource Investments, LLC |
| (h)(5) |
Incentive Fee Agreement (Raymond James) |
| (h)(7)(i) |
Amendment 1 to the Distribution Agreement |
| (k)(1) |
Transfer Agency Agreement, dated November 12, 2009 |
| (l)(3) |
Opinion and Consent of Ropes & Gray LLP |
| (n) |
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
| EX-FILING FEES |
Calculation of Filing Fee Table |
Exhibits Related to XBRL Interactive Data Files
| Exhibit No. |
Description |
| EX-101.INS |
XBRL Instance Document |
| EX-101.SCH |
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document |
| EX-101.CAL |
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase |
| EX-101.DEF |
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase |
| EX-101.LAB |
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Labels Linkbase |
| EX-101.PRE |
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase |
