1933 Act File No. 2-72277

1940 Act File No. 811-3181

 

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549

 

Form N-1A

REGISTRATION STATEMENT

UNDER

 

THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

 

 

Pre-Effective Amendment No.

 

 

Post-Effective Amendment No. 72

and/or

REGISTRATION STATEMENT

UNDER

 

THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940

 

 

Amendment No. 63
 

Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)

 

Federated Hermes Funds
4000 Ericsson Drive

Warrendale, PA 15086-7561

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

(412) 288-1900

(Registrant’s Telephone Number, including Area Code)

Peter J. Germain, Esquire
1001 Liberty Avenue

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-3779

(Name and Address of Agent for Service)

 

It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box):

 

immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
On __________ pursuant to paragraph (b)
60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
On November 17, 2021 pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
On __________ pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485
  If appropriate, check the following:
This post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment.
 

 

Prospectus
November 17, 2021
Share Class | Ticker
A2 | TBD
 
 
 

Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

A Portfolio of Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust
A mutual fund seeking to provide dividend income which is exempt from federal regular income tax by investing its assets so that, normally, distributions of annual interest income are exempt from federal regular income tax.
As with all mutual funds, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

Not FDIC Insured ▪ May Lose Value ▪ No Bank Guarantee

CONTENTS

Fund Summary Information 
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund (the “Fund”)
RISK/RETURN SUMMARY: INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The Fund’s investment objective is to provide dividend income which is exempt from federal regular income tax.
RISK/RETURN SUMMARY: FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy, hold and sell Class A2 Shares (A2) of the Fund. 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. You may qualify for certain sales charge discounts if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100,000 in certain classes of Federated Hermes funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional, in the “What Do Shares Cost?” section of the Prospectus on page 17 and in “Appendix B” to this Prospectus.
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
 
A2
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)
1.50%
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of original purchase price or redemption proceeds, as applicable)
0.00%
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Reinvested Dividends (and other Distributions) (as a percentage of offering price)
None
Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed, if applicable)
None
Exchange Fee
None
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
 
A2
Management Fee
0.40%
Distribution (12b-1) Fee
0.25%
Other Expenses
21,0.16%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
0.81%
Fee Waivers and/or Expense Reimbursements3
(0.10)%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waivers and/or Expense Reimbursements
0.71%
1
The Fund may incur and pay certain service fees (shareholder services/account administration fees) on its A2 class of up to a maximum of 0.25%. No such fees are currently incurred and paid by the A2 class of the Fund. The A2 class of the Fund will not incur and pay such fees until such time as approved by the Board of Trustees (the “Trustees”).
2
Because the Fund’s A2 Shares are new, Other Expenses are based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year.
3
The Adviser and certain of its affiliates, on their own initiative, have agreed to waive certain amounts of their respective fees and/or reimburse expenses. Total annual fund operating expenses (excluding Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, interest expense, extraordinary expenses and proxy-related expenses paid by the Fund, if any) paid by the Fund’s Class A2 Shares (after the voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements) will not exceed 0.71% (the “Fee Limit”) up to but not including the later of (the “Termination Date”): (a) December 1, 2022; or (b) the date of the Fund’s next effective Prospectus. While the Adviser and its affiliates currently do not anticipate terminating or increasing these arrangements prior to the Termination Date, these arrangements may only be terminated or the Fee Limit increased prior to the Termination Date with the agreement of the Trustees.
1

Example
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 for the time periods indicated and then redeem or hold all of your Shares at the end of those periods. The Example assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that operating expenses (excluding any sales loads on reinvested dividends, fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements) are as shown in the table above and remain the same. The expenses used to calculate the Fund’s examples do not include fee waivers or expense reimbursements. Although your actual costs and returns may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year
$231
3 Years
$405
5 Years
$593
10 Years
$1,137
Portfolio Turnover
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund Shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in Annual Fund Operating Expenses or in the Example, affect the Fund’s performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund’s portfolio turnover rate was 11% of the average value of its portfolio.
RISK/RETURN SUMMARY: INVESTMENTS, RISKS and PERFORMANCE 
What are the Fund’s Main Investment Strategies?
The Fund pursues its objective by investing its assets so that normally distributions of annual interest income are exempt from federal regular income tax. The Adviser may invest the Fund’s assets without limitation in securities whose interest may be subject to (or may be a specific preference item for purposes of) the federal alternative minimum tax (AMT) for individuals. With respect to such investments, interest from the Fund’s investments may be subject to (or may be a specific preference item for purposes of) the AMT.
The Fund does not limit itself to securities of a particular maturity range. The Fund’s dollar-weighted average portfolio duration will be less than five years. “Duration” measures the sensitivity of a security’s price to changes in interest rates. The Adviser may lengthen or shorten duration from time to time based on its interest rate outlook.
The Fund will invest at least a majority of its assets in securities rated investment-grade (or unrated securities of comparable quality), and may purchase securities rated below investment-grade (or unrated securities of comparable quality), which are also known as junk bonds, up to 49% of its assets. Investment-grade securities are securities that receive investment-grade ratings (i.e., generally ratings in the first, second, third or fourth highest rating category) by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) or unrated securities of comparable quality. For example, securities rated AAA, AA, A or BBB (including modifiers, sub-categories or gradations) by Standard & Poor’s, an NRSRO, would be rated in the first, second, third or fourth ratings category, respectively. Securities rated below investment grade (or noninvestment-grade securities) are securities that do not receive investment-grade ratings (i.e., generally ratings below one of the four highest rating categories) by an NRSRO or unrated securities of comparable quality. For example, securities rated B or BB (including modifiers, sub-categories or gradations) by Standard & Poor’s, an NRSRO, would be noninvestment-grade securities. The presence of a ratings modifier, sub-category, or gradation (for example, a (+) or (-)) is intended to show relative standing within the major rating categories and does not affect the security credit rating for purposes of the Fund’s investment parameters. The Fund does not have a specific minimum quality rating.
The securities in which the Fund may principally invest include tax-exempt securities, which may include, for example, general obligation bonds, special revenue bonds, private activity bonds, inverse floaters, municipal mortgage-backed securities, variable rate demand instruments and municipal notes. Certain of the tax-exempt securities in which the Fund invests may be subject to credit enhancement. The Fund also may principally invest in derivative contracts (such as, for example, futures contracts, option contracts and swap contracts) and hybrid instruments to implement its investment strategies. For example, the Fund may use derivative contracts or hybrid instruments to increase or decrease the portfolio’s exposure to the investment(s) underlying the derivative or hybrid instrument in an attempt to benefit from changes in the
2

value of the underlying instrument(s), to gain exposure to the municipal bond sector, to increase or decrease the effective duration of the Fund’s portfolio or to hedge against potential losses. There can be no assurance that the Fund’s use of derivative contracts or hybrid instruments will work as intended. Derivative investments made by the Fund are included within the Fund’s 80% policy (as described below) and are calculated at market value.
The Fund also may invest in certain securities or other investments as described herein (such as, market discount bonds, credit default swaps and other derivative transactions) that will likely cause the Fund to realize a limited amount of ordinary income or short-term capital gains (which are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes).
Under normal circumstances, the Fund will invest its assets so that at least 80% of the income that it distributes will be exempt from federal regular income tax. This policy may not be changed without shareholder approval.
What are the Main (or Principal) Risks of Investing in the Fund?
All mutual funds take investment risks. Therefore, it is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund. The primary factors that may reduce the Fund’s returns include:
■ Tax-Exempt Securities Risk. The amount of public information available about tax-exempt securities is generally less than for corporate equities or bonds. The secondary market for tax-exempt securities also tends to be less well-developed and less liquid than many other securities markets, which may limit the Fund’s ability to sell its tax-exempt securities at attractive prices. Special factors, such as legislative changes, and state and local economic and business developments, may adversely affect the yield and/or value of the Fund’s investments in tax-exempt securities. Tax-exempt issuers can and have defaulted on obligations, been downgraded or commenced insolvency proceedings. Like other issuers and securities, the likelihood that the credit risk associated with such issuers and such securities will increase is greater during times of economic stress and financial instability.
■ Interest Rate Risk. Prices of fixed-income securities (including tax-exempt securities) generally fall when interest rates rise. The longer the duration of a fixed-income security, the more susceptible it is to interest rate risk. Recent and potential future changes in monetary policy made by central banks and/or their governments are likely to affect the level of interest rates.
■ Issuer Credit Risk. It is possible that interest or principal on securities will not be paid when due. Noninvestment-grade securities generally have a higher default risk than investment-grade securities. Such non-payment or default may reduce the value of the Fund’s portfolio holdings, its share price and its performance.
■ Counterparty Credit Risk. A party to a transaction involving the Fund may fail to meet its obligations. This could cause the Fund to lose money or to lose the benefit of the transaction or prevent the Fund from selling or buying other securities to implement its investment strategies.
■ Liquidity Risk. Certain securities in which the Fund invests may be less readily marketable and may be subject to greater fluctuation in price than other securities. These features may make it more difficult to sell or buy a security at a favorable price or time. Noninvestment-grade securities generally have less liquidity than investment-grade securities. Liquidity risk also refers to the possibility that the Fund may not be able to sell a security or close out a derivative contract when it wants to. Over-the-counter derivative contracts generally carry greater liquidity risk than exchange-traded contracts.
■ Tax Risk. In order to be tax-exempt, tax-exempt securities must meet certain legal requirements. Failure to meet such requirements may cause the interest received and distributed by the Fund to shareholders to be taxable. The federal income tax treatment of payments in respect of certain derivative contracts is unclear. The Fund also may invest in market discount bonds, enter into credit default swap arrangements and other derivative transactions, and engage in other permissible activities that will likely cause the Fund to realize a limited amount of ordinary income or short-term capital gains (which are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes). Consequently, for each of these reasons, the Fund may receive payments, and make distributions, that are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes. Income from the Fund also may be subject to AMT.
■ Leverage Risk. Leverage risk is created when an investment, which includes, for example, a derivative contract, exposes the Fund to a level of risk that exceeds the amount invested. Changes in the value of such an investment magnify the Fund’s risk of loss and potential for gain. Investments can have these same results if their returns are based on a multiple of a specified index, security or other benchmark.
■ Call Risk. The Fund’s performance may be adversely affected by the possibility that an issuer of a security held by the Fund may redeem the security prior to maturity at a price below or above its current market value.
■ Sector Risk. A substantial part of the Fund’s portfolio may be comprised of securities issued or credit enhanced by companies in similar businesses, or with other similar characteristics. As a result, the Fund will be more susceptible to any economic, business, political or other developments which generally affect these issuers or entities.
3

■ Prepayment and Extension Risk. When homeowners prepay their mortgages in response to lower interest rates, the Fund will be required to reinvest the proceeds at the lower interest rates available. Also, when interest rates fall, the price of municipal mortgage-backed securities may not rise to as great an extent as that of other fixed-income securities. When interest rates rise, homeowners are less likely to prepay their mortgages. A decreased rate of prepayments lengthens the expected maturity of a mortgage-backed security, and the price of mortgage-backed securities may decrease more than the price of other fixed income securities when interest rates rise.
■ Credit Enhancement Risk. The securities in which the Fund invests may be subject to credit enhancement (for example, guarantees, letters of credit or bond insurance). If the credit quality of the credit enhancement provider (for example, a bank or bond insurer) is downgraded, the rating on a security credit enhanced by such credit enhancement provider also may be downgraded. Having multiple securities credit enhanced by the same enhancement provider will increase the adverse effects on the Fund that are likely to result from a downgrading of, or a default by, such an enhancement provider. Adverse developments in the banking or bond insurance industries also may negatively affect the Fund.
■ Risk Associated with Noninvestment-Grade Securities. Securities rated below investment-grade may be subject to greater interest rate, credit and liquidity risks than investment-grade securities. These securities are considered speculative with respect to the issuer’s ability to pay interest and repay principal.
■ Risk Related to the Economy. The value of the Fund’s portfolio may decline in tandem with a drop in the overall value of the markets in which the Fund invests and/or other markets. Economic, political and financial conditions, industry or economic trends and developments or public health risks, such as epidemics or pandemics, may, from time to time, and for varying periods of time, cause the Fund to experience volatility, illiquidity, shareholder redemptions or other potentially adverse effects. Among other investments, lower-grade bonds may be particularly sensitive to changes in the economy.
■ Risk of Investing in Derivative Contracts and Hybrid Instruments. Derivative contracts and hybrid instruments involve risks different from, or possibly greater than, risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments. Specific risk issues related to the use of such contracts and instruments include valuation and tax issues, increased potential for losses and/or costs to the Fund, and a potential reduction in gains to the Fund. Each of these issues is described in greater detail in this Prospectus. Derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may also involve other risks described in this Prospectus, such as interest rate, credit, liquidity and leverage risks.
■ Technology Risk. The Adviser uses various technologies in managing the Fund, consistent with its investment objective(s) and strategy described in this Prospectus. For example, proprietary and third-party data and systems are utilized to support decision making for the Fund. Data imprecision, software or other technology malfunctions, programming inaccuracies and similar circumstances may impair the performance of these systems, which may negatively affect Fund performance.
The Shares offered by this Prospectus are not deposits or obligations of any bank, are not endorsed or guaranteed by any bank and are not insured or guaranteed by the U.S. government, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board or any other government agency.
Performance: Bar Chart and Table 
Risk/Return Bar Chart
The Fund’s A2 class is expected to commence operations on or about November 17, 2021. The Fund currently offers three other classes of Shares: Class A Shares (A class), Institutional Shares and Service Shares. The total returns shown below are for the Fund’s A class, which would be substantially similar to the annual returns for the A2 class over the same period because the classes are invested in the same portfolio of securities and differ only to the extent that the two classes do not have the same expenses and/or sales loads.
The bar chart and performance table below reflect historical performance data for the Fund and are intended to help you analyze the Fund’s investment risks in light of its historical returns. The bar chart shows the variability of the Fund’s A class total returns on a calendar year-by-year basis. The Average Annual Total Return Table shows returns for each class averaged over the stated periods, and includes comparative performance information. The Fund’s performance will fluctuate, and past performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily an indication of future results. Updated
4

performance information for the Fund is available under the “Products” section at FederatedInvestors.com or by calling 1-800-341-7400.
The total returns shown in the bar chart do not reflect the payment of any sale charges or recurring shareholder account fees. If these charges or fees had been included, the returns shown would have been lower.
The Fund’s A class total return for the six-month period from January 1, 2021 to June 30, 2021, was 0.15%.
Within the periods shown in the bar chart, the Fund’s A class highest quarterly return was 2.20% (quarter ended June 30, 2020). Its lowest quarterly return was (2.26)% (quarter ended March 31, 2020).
Average Annual Total Return Table
The Fund’s A2 class is expected to commence operations on or about November 17, 2021. The A2 class performance information shown below is for the Fund’s A class as described above.
In addition to Return Before Taxes, Return After Taxes is shown for the Fund’s A class to illustrate the effect of federal taxes on Fund returns. Actual after-tax returns depend on each investor’s personal tax situation, and are likely to differ from those shown. After-tax returns are calculated using a standard set of assumptions. The stated returns assume the highest historical federal income and capital gains tax rates. These after-tax returns do not reflect the effect of any applicable state and local taxes. After-tax returns are not relevant to investors holding shares through tax-deferred programs, such as a 401(k) Plan, an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or other tax-advantaged investment plan.
(For the Period Ended December 31, 2020)
 
1 Year
5 Year
10 Year
A:
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
0.74%
1.07%
1.34%
Return After Taxes on Distributions
0.74%
1.07%
1.34%
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
0.89%
1.07%
1.29%
S&P Municipal Bond Short Index1
(reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
2.32%
1.74%
1.59%
S&P Municipal Bond 1-5 Years Investment
Grade 5% Pre-Refunded Index2
(reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
2.91%
2.04%
2.03%
Lipper Short Municipal Debt Funds Average3
1.80%
1.43%
1.30%
1
The S&P Municipal Bond Short Index consists of bonds in the S&P Municipal Bond Index with a minimum maturity of 6 months and a maximum maturity of 4 years.
2
The S&P Municipal Bond 1-5 Years Investment Grade 5% Pre-Refunded Index represents the portion of the S&P Municipal Bond Investment Grade Index composed solely of investment-grade bonds (those with ratings higher than “BBB-“/”Baa3”) with remaining maturities of between one and five years, 5% of which are pre-refunded.
3
Lipper figures represent the average of the total returns reported by all the mutual funds designated by Lipper, Inc. as falling in the category indicated, and is not adjusted to reflect any sales charges.
FUND MANAGEMENT
The Fund’s Investment Adviser is Federated Investment Management Company.
Jeff A. Kozemchak, CFA, Senior Portfolio Manager, has been the Fund’s portfolio manager since June of 1996.
Mary Jo Ochson, CFA, Senior Portfolio Manager, has been the Fund’s portfolio manager since August of 2017.
5

purchase and sale of fund shares
The A2 class offered through this Prospectus is available for purchase to shareholders investing through certain financial intermediaries that have entered into an agreement with the Fund’s Distributor. The A2 class may also be purchased directly from the Fund in certain circumstances.
You may purchase, redeem or exchange Shares of the Fund on any day the New York Stock Exchange is open. Shares may be purchased through a financial intermediary firm that has entered into a Fund selling and/or servicing agreement with the Distributor or an affiliate (“Financial Intermediary”) or directly from the Fund, by wire or by check. Please note that certain purchase restrictions may apply. Redeem or exchange Shares through a financial intermediary or directly from the Fund by telephone at 1-800-341-7400 or by mail.
The minimum investment amount for the Fund’s A2 class is generally $1,500 for initial investments and $100 for subsequent investments. There is no minimum initial or subsequent investment amount required for employer-sponsored retirement plans. Certain types of accounts are eligible for lower minimum investments. The minimum investment for Systematic Investment Programs is $50.
Tax Information
It is anticipated that Fund distributions will be primarily dividends that are exempt from federal regular income tax, although a portion of the Fund’s dividends may not be tax-exempt. Dividends may be subject to state and local taxes. Although the Fund does not seek to realize capital gains, the Fund may realize and distribute capital gains from time to time as a result of the Fund’s normal investment activities. Any Fund distributions of capital gains are taxable at applicable capital gains rates. The Fund is generally not a suitable investment for retirement accounts.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
If you purchase the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and/or its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund Shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.
What are the Fund’s Investment Strategies?
The Fund’s investment objective is to provide dividend income which is exempt from federal regular income tax. While there is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective, it endeavors to do so by following the principal strategies and policies described in this Prospectus. The Fund’s Statement of Additional Information (SAI) provides information about the Fund’s non-principal strategies.
The Fund pursues its objective by investing its assets so that normally distributions of annual interest income are exempt from federal regular income tax. The Adviser may invest the Fund’s assets without limitation in securities whose interest may be subject to (or may be a specific preference item for purposes of) the AMT. With respect to such investments, interest from the Fund’s investments may be subject to (or may be a specific preference item for purposes of) the AMT.
The Fund does not limit itself to securities of a particular maturity range. The Fund’s dollar-weighted average portfolio duration will be less than five years.
The Fund will invest at least a majority of its assets in securities rated investment-grade (or unrated securities of comparable quality), and may purchase securities rated below investment-grade (or unrated securities of comparable quality), which are also known as junk bonds, up to 49% of its assets. The amount of the Fund’s assets invested in investment-grade, tax-exempt securities will be determined at the time when tax-exempt securities are purchased. For example, a later increase or decrease in percentage resulting from any change in value or net assets, or from a downgrade in a security’s rating/quality, will not require the Fund to sell any tax-exempt security held in the Fund’s portfolio. Investment-grade securities are securities that receive investment-grade ratings (i.e., generally ratings in the first, second, third or fourth highest rating category, including modifiers, sub-categories or gradations) by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) or unrated securities of comparable quality. For example, securities rated AAA, AA, A or BBB (including modifiers, sub-categories or gradations) by Standard & Poor’s, an NRSRO, would be rated in the first, second, third or fourth ratings category, respectively. Securities rated below investment-grade (or noninvestment-grade securities) are securities that do not receive investment-grade ratings (i.e., generally ratings below one of the four highest rating categories) by an NRSRO or unrated securities of comparable quality. For example, securities rated B or BB (including modifiers, sub-categories or gradations) by Standard & Poor’s, an NRSRO, would be noninvestment-grade securities. The presence of a ratings modifier, sub-category, or gradation (for example, a (+) or (-)) is intended to show relative standing within the major rating categories and does not affect the security credit rating for purposes of the Fund’s investment parameters. The Fund does not have a specific minimum quality rating.
6

The investment-grade, tax-exempt securities in which the Fund invests generally are subject to tax-exempt securities, interest rate, issuer credit, counterparty credit, liquidity, tax, leverage, call, sector, prepayment and extension, credit enhancement and economic risks, and the derivative contracts and hybrid instruments in which the Fund invests are subject to these risks, as well as the risks of investing in derivatives contracts and hybrid instruments, all as described in this Prospectus. The noninvestment-grade, tax-exempt securities in which the Fund invests, which are also known as junk bonds, also are subject to tax-exempt securities, interest rate, issuer credit, counterparty credit, liquidity, tax, leverage, call, sector, prepayment and extension, credit enhancement and economic risks, as well as the risks of investing in noninvestment-grade securities, all as described in this Prospectus.
The Fund’s Adviser actively manages the Fund’s portfolio, seeking to manage the interest rate risk and credit risk assumed by the Fund and to provide enhanced levels of income.
Subject to the Fund’s dollar-weighted average portfolio duration constraint, the Adviser of the Fund manages the Fund’s interest rate risk by adjusting the duration of its portfolio. The Adviser may lengthen or shorten duration from time to time based on its interest rate outlook. “Duration” measures the price sensitivity of a fixed income security to changes in interest rates. The greater a portfolio’s duration, the greater the potential change in the portfolio’s value in response to a change in market interest rates.
The Adviser will increase or reduce the Fund’s portfolio duration based on its interest rate outlook. When the Adviser expects interest rates to fall, it will maintain a longer portfolio duration. When the Adviser expects interest rates to increase, it will shorten the portfolio duration. The Adviser uses hedging transactions for purposes of duration management. The Adviser considers a variety of factors in formulating its interest rate outlook, including (among others) the following:
■ Current and expected U.S. economic growth;
■ Current and expected interest rates and inflation;
■ The Federal Reserve’s monetary policy; and
■ Supply and demand factors related to the municipal market and the effect they may have on the returns offered for various bond maturities.
The Adviser manages credit risk by performing a fundamental credit analysis on tax-exempt securities before the Fund purchases such securities. The Adviser considers various factors, including (among others) the following:
■ The economic feasibility of revenue bond financings and general purpose financings;
■ The financial condition of the issuer or guarantor; and
■ Political developments that may affect credit quality.
The Adviser monitors the credit risks of all portfolio securities on an ongoing basis by reviewing, as the Adviser considers necessary or appropriate in accordance with its procedures, periodic financial data and ratings of NRSROs. The Fund’s investments in noninvestment-grade securities will be more dependent on the Adviser’s credit analysis than would be investment-grade securities, because noninvestment-grade securities, while generally offering higher yields, also involve greater risks. Consequently, in addition to the review process described above, the Adviser may, for example and when appropriate, visit the site that the issuer is developing with the proceeds of the offering; and may engage in detailed discussions with the issuer regarding the offering.
The Adviser attempts to provide enhanced levels of income, subject to the Fund’s quality and duration constraint, through the following management techniques. The Adviser will engage in a relative value analysis; that is, the Adviser will assess the cost of a tax-exempt security compared with other tax-exempt securities and taxable securities such as U.S. Treasury obligations. The Adviser may also allocate investments in sectors of the tax-exempt market that offer the highest return. In seeking to provide enhanced levels of income, the Fund may invest in tax-exempt securities that are trading at a price less than the original issue price (or market discount bonds), enter into credit default swap arrangements and other derivative transactions, and engage in other permissible activities that will likely cause the Fund to realize a limited amount of ordinary income or short-term capital gains (which are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes) and, as a result, may result in taxable distributions to shareholders.
The Fund may use derivative contracts and/or hybrid instruments to implement elements of its investment strategy. For example, the Fund may use derivative contracts or hybrid instruments to increase or decrease the portfolio’s exposure to the investment(s) underlying the derivative or hybrid instrument in an attempt to benefit from changes in the value of the underlying instrument(s) or to gain exposure to the municipal bond sector. Additionally, by way of example, the Fund may use derivative contracts in an attempt to:
■ increase or decrease the effective duration of the Fund portfolio;
■ obtain premiums from the sale of derivative contracts;
■ realize gains from trading a derivative contract; or
■ hedge against potential losses.
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There can be no assurance that the Fund’s use of derivative contracts or hybrid instruments will work as intended. Derivative investments made by the Fund are included within the Fund’s 80% policy (as described below) and are calculated at market value.
Under normal circumstances, the Fund will invest its assets so that at least 80% of the income that it distributes will be exempt from federal regular income tax. This policy may not be changed without shareholder approval.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS
The Fund may temporarily depart from its principal investment strategies by investing its assets in taxable securities or holding cash. It may do this in response to unusual circumstances, such as: adverse market, economic or other conditions (for example, to help avoid potential losses, or during periods when there is a shortage of appropriate tax-exempt securities); to maintain liquidity to meet shareholder redemptions; or to accommodate cash inflows. It is possible that such temporary investments could affect the Fund’s investment returns. If the Fund invests in taxable securities, it may receive and distribute taxable income to investors and to that extent fail to meet its investment objectives.
What are the Fund’s Principal Investments?
The following provides general information on the Fund’s principal investments. The Fund’s Statement of Additional Information (SAI) provides information about the Fund’s non-principal investments and may provide additional information about the Fund’s principal investments.
TAX-EXEMPT SECURITIES
Tax-exempt securities are fixed-income securities that, in the opinion of bond counsel to the issuer or on the basis of another authority believed by the Adviser to be reliable, pay interest that is not subject to federal regular income taxes. Fixed-income securities pay interest, dividends or distributions at a specified rate. The rate may be a fixed percentage of the principal or adjusted periodically. In addition, the issuer of a fixed-income security must repay the principal amount of the security, normally within a specified time. Typically, states, counties, cities and other political subdivisions and authorities issue tax-exempt securities. The market categorizes tax-exempt securities by their source of repayment. Certain of these tax-exempt securities may be subject to credit enhancement.
The following describes the principal types of tax-exempt securities in which the Fund may invest:
General Obligation Bonds (A Type of Tax-Exempt Security)
General obligation bonds are supported by the issuer’s power to exact property or other taxes. The issuer must impose and collect taxes sufficient to pay principal and interest on the bonds. However, the issuer’s authority to impose additional taxes may be limited by its charter or state law.
Special Revenue Bonds (A Type of Tax-Exempt Security)
Special revenue bonds are payable solely from specific revenues received by the issuer such as specific taxes, assessments, tolls or fees. Bondholders may not collect from the municipality’s general taxes or revenues. For example, a municipality may issue bonds to build a toll road and pledge the tolls to repay the bonds. Therefore, a shortfall in the tolls normally would result in a default on the bonds, or in certain cases, may result in a reduction in payments received in respect of the bonds.
Private Activity Bonds (A Type of Special Revenue Bond)
Private activity bonds are special revenue bonds used to finance private projects. A certain percentage of the proceeds from a private activity bond is used for a private business use or a certain percentage of the debt service regarding a private activity bond is paid directly or indirectly from a private business use. A private business use is a trade or business carried on by any person or entity other than a governmental unit. Private activity bonds are secured primarily by revenues derived from loan repayments or lease payments due from the private entity, which may or may not be guaranteed by a parent company or otherwise secured. Private activity bonds generally are not secured by a pledge of the taxing power of the issuer of such bonds. For example, a municipality may issue bonds to finance a new factory to improve its local economy. The municipality would lend the proceeds from its bonds to the company using the factory, and the company would agree to make loan payments sufficient to cover interest and principal payments on the bonds. The bonds would be payable from the company’s loan payments, and generally not from any other revenues of the municipality. Therefore, any default of the loan normally would result in a default on the bonds.
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Types of private activity bonds include, for example: bonds issued to obtain funds to provide water, sewage and solid waste facilities, qualified residential rental projects, certain local electric, gas and other heating and cooling facilities, qualified hazardous waste facilities, high speed intercity rail facilities, certain airports, docks, wharves and mass transportation facilities and qualified mortgages; qualified student loan bonds; qualified redevelopment bonds; and bonds used for certain organizations exempt from federal income taxation (qualified 501(c)(3) bonds).
The interest on many types of private activity bonds is subject to AMT. However, issues are available in the marketplace that are not subject to AMT due to qualifying tax rules.
Inverse Floaters (A Type of Fixed-Income, Tax-Exempt Security)
An inverse floater has a floating or variable interest rate that moves in the opposite direction of market interest rates. Inverse floaters are used to enhance the income from a bond investment by employing leverage. When short-term market interest rates go up, the interest rate paid on the inverse floater goes down; when short-term market interest rates go down, the interest rate paid on the inverse floater goes up. Inverse floaters generally respond more rapidly to market interest rate changes than fixed-rate, tax-exempt securities. Inverse floaters are subject to interest rate risks and leverage risks.
Municipal Mortgage-Backed Securities (A Type of Fixed-Income, Tax-Exempt Security)
Municipal mortgage-backed securities are special revenue bonds, the proceeds of which may be used to provide mortgage loans for single family homes or to finance multifamily housing. Municipal mortgage-backed securities represent interests in pools of mortgages. The mortgages that comprise a pool normally have similar interest rates, maturities and other terms. Mortgages may have fixed or adjustable rates. Municipal mortgage-backed securities generally have fixed interest rates.
Municipal mortgage-backed securities come in a variety of forms. The simplest forms of municipal mortgage-backed securities are unstructured bonds backed by the net interest and principal payments and prepayments from the underlying mortgages. As a result, the holders assume all interest rate and prepayment risks of the underlying mortgages. Other municipal mortgage-backed securities may have more complicated financial structures.
Variable Rate Demand Instruments (A Type of Tax-Exempt Security)
Variable rate demand instruments are tax-exempt securities that require the issuer or a third party, such as a dealer or bank (the “Demand Provider”), to repurchase the security for its face value upon demand. The securities also pay interest at a variable rate intended to cause the securities to trade at their face value. Some variable rate demand instruments are “conditional,” so that the occurrence of certain conditions discharges the Demand Provider’s obligation to repurchase the security. Other variable rate demand instruments are “unconditional,” so that there are no conditions under which the Demand Provider’s obligation to repurchase the security can terminate. The Fund treats variable rate demand instruments as short-term securities even though their maturity may extend beyond 397 days because, within 397 days, their variable interest rate adjusts in response to changes in market rates and the repayment of their principal amount can be demanded. Certain variable rate demand instruments that may be invested in by the Fund, referred to as “synthetic” variable rate demand instruments, have certain features, such as call features, that make it possible that the Fund will realize capital gains.
Municipal Notes (A Type of Tax-Exempt Security)
Municipal notes are short-term, tax-exempt securities. Many municipalities issue such notes to fund their current operations before collecting taxes or other municipal revenues. Municipalities may also issue notes to fund capital projects prior to issuing long-term bonds. The issuers typically repay the notes at the end of their fiscal year, either with taxes, other revenues or proceeds from newly issued notes or bonds.
Derivative Contracts
Derivative contracts are financial instruments that require payments based upon changes in the values of designated securities, commodities, indices or other assets or instruments including other derivative contracts (each a “Reference Instrument” and collectively, “Reference Instruments”). Each party to a derivative contract may sometimes be referred to as a counterparty. Some derivative contracts require payments relating to an actual, future trade involving the Reference Instrument. These types of derivatives are frequently referred to as “physically settled” derivatives. Other derivative contracts require payments relating to the income or returns from, or changes in the market value of, a Reference Instrument. These types of derivatives are known as “cash-settled” derivatives, since they require cash payments in lieu of delivery of the Reference Instrument.
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Many derivative contracts are traded on securities or commodities exchanges. In this case, the exchange sets all the terms of the contract except for the price. Investors make payments due under their contracts through the exchange. Most exchanges require investors to maintain margin accounts through their brokers to cover their potential obligations to the exchange. Parties to the contract make (or collect) daily payments to the margin accounts to reflect losses (or gains) in the value of their contracts. This protects investors against potential defaults by the other party to the contract. Trading contracts on an exchange also allows investors to close out their contracts by entering into offsetting contracts.
The Fund may also trade derivative contracts over-the-counter (OTC) in transactions negotiated directly between the Fund and a financial institution. OTC contracts do not necessarily have standard terms, so they may be less liquid and more difficult to close out than exchange-traded contracts. In addition, OTC contracts with more specialized terms may be more difficult to value than exchange-traded contracts, especially in times of financial stress.
The market for swaps and other OTC derivatives was largely unregulated prior to the enactment of federal legislation known as the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”). Regulations enacted by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the CFTC) under the Dodd-Frank Act require the Fund to clear certain swap contracts through a clearing house or central counterparty (a CCP).
To clear a swap through the CCP, the Fund will submit the contract to, and post margin with, a futures commission merchant (FCM) that is a clearing house member. The Fund may enter into the swap with a financial institution other than the FCM and arrange for the contract to be transferred to the FCM for clearing, or enter into the contract with the FCM itself. If the Fund must centrally clear a transaction, the CFTC’s regulations also generally require that the swap be executed on a registered exchange or through a market facility that is known as a swap execution facility or SEF. Central clearing is presently required only for certain swaps and the CFTC is expected to impose a mandatory central clearing requirement for additional derivative instruments over time.
The CCP, SEF and FCM are all subject to regulatory oversight by the CFTC. In addition, most derivative market participants are now regulated as swap dealers or major swap participants and are subject to certain minimum capital and margin requirements and business conduct standards. Similar regulatory requirements are expected to apply to derivative contracts that are subject to the jurisdiction of the SEC, although the SEC has not yet finalized its regulations. In addition, uncleared OTC swaps will be subject to regulatory collateral requirements that could adversely affect the Fund’s ability to enter into swaps in the OTC market. These developments could cause the Fund to terminate new or existing swap agreements or to realize amounts to be received under such instruments at an inopportune time.
Until the mandated rulemaking and regulations are implemented completely, it will not be possible to determine the complete impact of the Dodd-Frank Act and related regulations on the Fund.
Depending on how the Fund uses derivative contracts and the relationships between the market value of a derivative contract and the Reference Instrument, derivative contracts may increase or decrease the Fund’s exposure to the risks of the Reference Instrument, and may also expose the Fund to liquidity and leverage risks. OTC contracts also expose the Fund to credit risks in the event that a counterparty defaults on the contract, although this risk may be mitigated by submitting the contract for clearing through a CCP.
Payment obligations arising in connection with derivative contracts are frequently required to be secured with margin (which is commonly called “collateral”). To the extent necessary to meet such requirements, the Fund may purchase U.S. Treasury and/or government agency securities.
The Fund may invest in a derivative contract if it is permitted to own, invest in or otherwise have economic exposure to the Reference Instrument. The Fund is not required to own a Reference Instrument in order to buy or sell a derivative contract relating to that Reference Instrument. The Fund may trade in the following specific types and/or combinations of derivative contracts:
Futures Contracts (A Type of Derivative)
Futures contracts provide for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified amount of a Reference Instrument at a specified price, date and time. Entering into a contract to buy a Reference Instrument is commonly referred to as buying a contract or holding a long position in the asset. Entering into a contract to sell a Reference Instrument is commonly referred to as selling a contract or holding a short position in the Reference Instrument. Futures contracts are considered to be commodity contracts. The Adviser has claimed an exclusion from the definition of the term “commodity pool operator” under the Commodity Exchange Act with respect to the Fund, and therefore is not subject to registration or regulation with respect to the Fund. Futures contracts traded OTC are frequently referred to as forward contracts. The Fund can buy or sell financial futures (such as interest rate futures, index futures and security futures).
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Option Contracts (A Type of Derivative)
Option contracts (also called “options”) are rights to buy or sell a Reference Instrument for a specified price (the “exercise price”) during, or at the end of, a specified period. The seller (or “writer”) of the option receives a payment, or premium, from the buyer, which the writer keeps regardless of whether the buyer uses (or exercises) the option. A call option gives the holder (buyer) the right to buy the Reference Instrument from the seller (writer) of the option. A put option gives the holder the right to sell the Reference Instrument to the writer of the option. Options may be bought or sold on a wide variety of Reference Instruments. Options that are written on futures contracts will be subject to margin requirements similar to those applied to futures contracts.
Swap Contracts (A Type of Derivative)
A swap contract (also known as a “swap”) is a type of derivative contract in which two parties agree to pay each other (swap) the returns derived from Reference Instruments. Swaps do not always involve the delivery of the Reference Instruments by either party, and the parties might not own the Reference Instruments underlying the swap. The payments are usually made on a net basis so that, on any given day, the Fund would receive (or pay) only the amount by which its payment under the contract is less than (or exceeds) the amount of the other party’s payment. Swap agreements are sophisticated instruments that can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names. Common types of swaps in which the Fund may invest include interest rate swaps, total return swaps, credit default swaps and caps and floors.
OTHER INVESTMENTS, TRANSACTIONS, TECHNIQUES
Credit Enhancement
The Fund may invest in securities that have credit enhancement. Credit enhancement consists of an arrangement in which a company agrees to pay amounts due on a fixed-income security (including a tax-exempt security) if the issuer defaults. In some cases the company providing credit enhancement makes all payments directly to the security holders and receives reimbursement from the issuer. Normally, the credit enhancer has greater financial resources and liquidity than the issuer. For this reason, the Adviser may evaluate the credit risk of a fixed-income security based solely upon its credit enhancement.
Common types of credit enhancement include guarantees, letters of credit, bond insurance and surety bonds. Credit enhancement also includes arrangements where securities or other liquid assets secure payment of a fixed-income security. If a default occurs, these assets may be sold and the proceeds paid to the security’s holders. Either form of credit enhancement reduces credit risks by providing another source of payment for a fixed-income security.
Hybrid Instruments
Hybrid instruments combine elements of two different kinds of securities or financial instruments (such as a derivative contract). Frequently, the value of a hybrid instrument is determined by reference to changes in the value of a Reference Instrument (that is a designated security, commodity, index or other asset or instrument including a derivative contract). The Fund may use hybrid instruments only in connection with permissible investment activities. Hybrid instruments can take on many forms including, but not limited to, the following forms. First, a common form of a hybrid instrument combines elements of a derivative contract with those of another security (typically a fixed-income security). In this case all or a portion of the interest or principal payable on a hybrid security is determined by reference to changes in the price of a Reference Instrument. Second, hybrid instruments may include convertible securities with conversion terms related to a Reference Instrument.
Depending on the type and terms of the hybrid instrument, its risks may reflect a combination of the risks of investing in the Reference Instrument with the risks of investing in other securities and derivative contracts. Thus, an investment in a hybrid instrument may entail significant risks in addition to those associated with traditional investments or the Reference Instrument. Hybrid instruments are also potentially more volatile than traditional securities or the Reference Instrument. Moreover, depending on the structure of the particular hybrid, it may expose the Fund to leverage risks or carry liquidity risks.
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Delayed Delivery Transactions
Delayed delivery transactions, including when-issued transactions, are arrangements in which the Fund buys securities for a set price, with payment and delivery of the securities scheduled for a future time. During the period between purchase and settlement, no payment is made by the Fund to the issuer and no interest accrues to the Fund. The Fund records the transaction when it agrees to buy the securities and reflects their value in determining the price of its Shares. Settlement dates may be a month or more after entering into these transactions so that the market values of the securities bought may vary from the purchase prices. Therefore, delayed delivery transactions create interest rate risks for the Fund. Delayed delivery transactions also involve credit risks in the event of a counterparty default. These transactions create leverage risks.
Asset Segregation
In order to secure its obligations in connection with derivative contracts or special transactions, the Fund will either own the underlying assets, enter into offsetting transactions or set aside cash or readily marketable securities in each case, as provided by the SEC or SEC staff guidance. This requirement may cause the Fund to miss favorable trading opportunities due to a lack of sufficient cash or readily marketable securities. This requirement may also cause the Fund to realize losses on offsetting or terminated derivative contracts or special transactions.
Investment Ratings for Investment-Grade Securities
The Adviser will determine whether a security is investment grade based upon the credit ratings given by one or more NRSROs. For example, Standard & Poor’s, an NRSRO, assigns ratings to investment-grade securities (AAA, AA, A and BBB including modifiers, sub-categories and gradations) based on their assessment of the likelihood of the issuer’s inability to pay interest or principal (default) when due on each security. Lower credit ratings correspond to higher credit risk. If a security has not received a rating, the Fund must rely entirely upon the Adviser’s credit assessment that the security is comparable to investment grade. The presence of a ratings modifier, sub-category, or gradation (for example, a (+) or (-)) is intended to show relative standing within the major rating categories and does not affect the security credit rating for purposes of the Fund’s investment parameters. If a security is downgraded below the minimum quality grade discussed above, the Adviser will reevaluate the security, but will not be required to sell it.
As disclosed in this Prospectus, the Fund may invest up to 49% of its assets in securities rated below investment-grade (or unrated securities of comparable quality). The Fund does not have a specific minimum quality rating requirement.
If a security is downgraded below any minimum quality grade discussed above, the Adviser will reevaluate the security, but will not be required to sell it.
Investment Ratings for Noninvestment-Grade Securities
Noninvestment-grade securities are rated below BBB- by an NRSRO. These bonds have greater economic, credit and liquidity risks than investment-grade securities.
Additional Information Regarding the Security Selection Process
As part of analysis inherent in its security selection process, among other factors, the Adviser also evaluates whether environmental, social and governance factors could have positive or negative impact on the risk profiles of many issuers or guarantors in the universe of securities in which the Fund may invest. The Adviser may also consider information derived from active engagements conducted by its in-house stewardship team with certain issuers or guarantors. This qualitative analysis does not automatically result in including or excluding specific securities but may be used by Federated Hermes as an additional input to improve portfolio risk/return characteristics.
What are the Specific Risks of Investing in the Fund?
The following provides general information on the risks associated with the Fund’s principal investments. Any additional risks associated with the Fund’s non-principal investments are described in the Fund’s SAI. The Fund’s SAI also may provide additional information about the risks associated with the Fund’s principal investments.
TAX-EXEMPT SECURITIES Risk
The securities in which the Fund invests may include those issued by state or local governments, other political subdivisions or authorities, or directly or indirectly supported by taxes, assessments, tolls, fees or other revenue collected by or otherwise derived from or through such issuers. The amount of public information available about tax-exempt securities is generally less than for corporate equities or bonds. The secondary market for tax-exempt securities also tends to be less well-developed and less liquid than many other securities markets, which may limit the Fund’s ability to sell its tax-exempt securities at attractive prices. Special factors, such as legislative changes, and state and local economic and business developments, may adversely affect the yield and/or value of the Fund’s investments in tax-exempt securities. Other factors include the general conditions of the tax-exempt securities market, the size of the particular offering, the
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maturity of the obligation and the rating of the issue. Like other issuers, there is no guarantee that the issuers of such securities will have sufficient revenues to satisfy their obligations (such as, for example, the payment of interest or principal when due). Legal, economic, political or other developments may raise impairments (such as, for example, limitations under applicable law on the issuer’s authority to raise taxes, prolonged budgetary processes, declining real estate values, increasing pension liabilities or declining tax revenues which may occur due to shifting demographics or other factors) to such issuer’s budgetary flexibility, liquidity and ability to satisfy its obligations. Such impairments may cause a downgrade in the credit ratings of such an issuer, or the securities issued or supported by it, and may cause such an issuer to defer payment of certain obligations, reduce or eliminate appropriations and/or default on its obligations.
Tax-exempt issuers can and have defaulted on obligations, been downgraded or commenced insolvency proceedings. Financial difficulties of such issuers may continue or get worse. Like other issuers and securities, the likelihood that the credit risk associated with such issuers and such securities will increase is greater during times of economic stress and financial instability. As a result, in such situations, there would be heightened risk that there could be an interruption in payments to holders of tax-exempt securities in some cases. There also could be a reduction in the market value of the tax-exempt securities held by the Fund, which could adversely affect the Fund’s net asset value or the distributions paid by the Fund.
To the extent that the Fund invests a larger portion of its assets in the tax-exempt securities of a particular state or U.S. territory or possession, there is greater risk that political, regulatory, economic or other developments within that state or U.S. territory or possession may impact on the Fund’s investment performance.
INTEREST RATE RISK
Prices of fixed-income securities (including tax-exempt securities) rise and fall in response to changes in interest rates. Generally, when interest rates rise, prices of fixed-income securities fall. However, market factors, such as the demand for particular fixed-income securities, may cause the price of certain fixed-income securities to fall while the prices of other securities rise or remain unchanged.
The longer the duration of a fixed-income security, the more susceptible it is to interest rate risk. The duration of a fixed-income security may be equal to or shorter than the stated maturity of a fixed-income security. Recent and potential future changes in monetary policy made by central banks and/or their governments are likely to affect the level of interest rates. Duration measures the price sensitivity of a fixed-income security given a change in interest rates. For example, if a fixed-income security has an effective duration of three years, a 1% increase in general interest rates would be expected to cause the security’s value to decline about 3% while a 1% decrease in general interest rates would be expected to cause the security’s value to increase about 3%.
The impact of interest rate changes on the value of floating rate investments is typically reduced by periodic interest rate resets. Variable and floating rate securities generally are less sensitive to interest rate changes, but may decline in value if their interest rates do not rise as much or as quickly as interest rates in general. Conversely, variable and floating rate securities generally will not increase in value as much as fixed rate debt instruments if interest rates decline. Certain of the Fund’s investments may also be valued, in part, by reference to the relative relationship between interest rates on tax-exempt securities and taxable securities. With respect to the Fund’s investments described in the preceding sentence, the value of such Fund investments may be negatively affected (or positively affected) when the market for tax-exempt securities underperforms (or outperforms) the market for taxable securities.
ISSUER Credit Risk
It is possible that interest or principal on securities will not be paid when due. Noninvestment-grade securities generally have a higher default risk than investment-grade securities. Such non-payment or default may reduce the value of the Fund’s portfolio holdings, its share price and its performance.
Many fixed-income securities (including tax-exempt securities) receive credit ratings from NRSROs such as Fitch Rating Service, Moody’s Investor Services, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s that assign ratings to securities by assessing the likelihood of an issuer and/or guarantor default. Higher credit ratings correspond to lower perceived credit risk and lower credit ratings correspond to higher perceived credit risk. Credit ratings may be upgraded or downgraded from time to time as an NRSRO’s assessment of the financial condition of a party obligated to make payments with respect to such securities and credit risk changes. The impact of any credit rating downgrade can be uncertain. Credit rating downgrades may lead to increased interest rates and volatility in financial markets, which in turn could negatively affect the value of the Fund’s portfolio holdings, its share price and its investment performance. Credit ratings are not a guarantee of quality. Credit ratings may lag behind the current financial conditions of the issuer and/or guarantor and do not provide assurance against default or other loss of money. Credit ratings do not protect against a decline in the value of a security. If a security has not received a rating, the Fund must rely entirely upon the Adviser’s credit assessment.
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Fixed-income securities generally compensate for greater credit risk by paying interest at a higher rate. The difference between the yield of a security and the yield of a U.S. Treasury security or other appropriate benchmark with a comparable maturity (the “spread”) measures the additional interest paid for risk. Spreads may increase generally in response to adverse economic or market conditions. A security’s spread may also increase if the security’s rating is lowered, or the security is perceived to have an increased credit risk. An increase in the spread will cause the price of the security to decline.
COUNTERPARTY CREDIT RISK
Counterparty credit risk includes the possibility that a party to a transaction involving the Fund will fail to meet its obligations. This could cause the Fund to lose money or to lose the benefit of the transaction or prevent the Fund from selling or buying other securities to implement its investment strategy.
LIQUIDITY RISK
Trading opportunities are more limited for fixed-income securities (including tax-exempt securities) that have not received any credit ratings, have received any credit ratings below investment grade or are not widely held. Trading opportunities also are more limited for inverse floaters that have complex terms or that are not widely held. These features may make it more difficult to sell or buy a security at a favorable price or time. Consequently, the Fund may have to accept a lower price to sell a security, sell other securities to raise cash or give up an investment opportunity, any of which could have a negative effect on the Fund’s performance. Infrequent trading of securities may also lead to an increase in their price volatility. Noninvestment-grade securities generally have less liquidity than investment-grade securities.
Liquidity risk also refers to the possibility that the Fund may not be able to sell a security or close out a derivative contract when it wants to. If this happens, the Fund will be required to continue to hold the security or keep the position open, and the Fund could incur losses.
OTC derivative contracts generally carry greater liquidity risk than exchange-traded contracts. This risk may be increased in times of financial stress, if the trading market for OTC derivative contracts becomes restricted.
Tax Risk
In order to pay interest that is exempt from federal regular income tax, tax-exempt securities must meet certain legal requirements. Failure to meet such requirements may cause the interest received and distributed by the Fund to shareholders to be taxable.
Changes or proposed changes in federal, state or local tax laws may cause the prices of tax-exempt securities to fall and/or may affect the tax-exempt status of the securities in which the Fund invests.
The federal income tax treatment of payments in respect of certain derivative contracts is unclear. Additionally, the Fund may not be able to close out certain derivative contracts when it wants to. The Fund also may invest in market discount bonds, enter into credit default swap arrangements and other derivative transactions, and engage in other permissible activities that will likely cause the Fund to realize a limited amount of ordinary income or short-term capital gains (which are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes). Consequently, for each of these reasons, the Fund may receive payments, and make distributions, that are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes. Income from the Fund may also be subject to AMT.
Leverage Risk
The tax-exempt securities, derivative contracts and hybrid instruments in which the Fund may invest can be principal investment strategies for the Fund and may be subject to leverage risk. Leverage risk is created when an investment, which includes, for example, an investment in a derivative contract, exposes the Fund to a level of risk that exceeds the amount invested. Changes in the value of such an investment magnify the Fund’s risk of loss and potential for gain. Investments can have these same results if their returns are based on a multiple of a specified index, security or other benchmark.
CALL RISK
The tax-exempt securities in which the Fund may invest can be principal investment strategies for the Fund and may be subject to call risk. Call risk is the possibility that an issuer may redeem a fixed-income security (including a tax-exempt security) before maturity (a “call”) at a price below or above its current market price. An increase in the likelihood of a call may reduce the security’s price. If a fixed-income security is called, the Fund may have to reinvest the proceeds in other fixed-income securities with lower interest rates, higher credit risks or other less favorable characteristics.
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SECTOR RISK
A substantial part of the Fund’s portfolio may be comprised of securities issued or credit-enhanced by companies in similar businesses or with other similar characteristics. As a result, the Fund will be more susceptible to any economic, business, political or other developments which generally affect these issuers or entities. Developments affecting companies with similar characteristics might include changes in interest rates, changes in economic cycle affecting credit losses and regulatory changes.
PREPAYMENT AND EXTENSION RISK
Unlike traditional fixed-income securities (including tax-exempt securities), which pay a fixed rate of interest until maturity (when the entire principal amount is due), payments on municipal mortgage-backed securities include both interest and a partial payment of principal. Partial payment of principal may be comprised of scheduled principal payments as well as unscheduled payments from the voluntary prepayment, refinancing or foreclosure of the underlying loans. These unscheduled prepayments of principal create risks that can adversely affect a fund holding municipal mortgage-backed securities.
For example, when interest rates decline, the values of municipal mortgage-backed securities generally rise. However, when interest rates decline, unscheduled prepayments can be expected to accelerate, and the Fund would be required to reinvest the proceeds of the prepayments at the lower interest rates then available. Unscheduled prepayments would also limit the potential for capital appreciation on municipal mortgage-backed securities.
Conversely, when interest rates rise, the values of municipal mortgage-backed securities generally fall. Since rising interest rates typically result in decreased prepayments, this could lengthen the average lives of municipal mortgage-backed securities, and cause their value to decline more than traditional fixed-income securities.
Generally, municipal mortgage-backed securities compensate for the increased risk associated with prepayments by paying a higher yield. The additional interest paid for risk is measured by the difference between the yield of a municipal mortgage-backed security and the yield of a U.S. Treasury security or other appropriate benchmark with a comparable maturity (the “spread”). An increase in the spread will cause the price of the municipal mortgage-backed security to decline. Spreads generally increase in response to adverse economic or market conditions. Spreads may also increase if the security is perceived to have an increased prepayment risk or is perceived to have less market demand.
Credit Enhancement Risk
The securities in which the Fund invests may be subject to credit enhancement (for example, guarantees, letters of credit or bond insurance). Credit enhancement is designed to help assure timely payment of the security; it does not protect the Fund against losses caused by declines in a security’s value due to changes in market conditions. Securities subject to credit enhancement generally would be assigned a lower credit rating if the rating were based primarily on the credit quality of the issuer without regard to the credit enhancement. If the credit quality of the credit enhancement provider (for example, a bank or bond insurer) is downgraded, the rating on a security credit enhanced by such credit enhancement provider also may be downgraded.
A single enhancement provider may provide credit enhancement to more than one of the Fund’s investments. Having multiple securities credit enhanced by the same enhancement provider will increase the adverse effects on the Fund that are likely to result from a downgrading of, or a default by, such an enhancement provider. Adverse developments in the banking or bond insurance industries also may negatively affect the Fund, as the Fund may invest in securities credit enhanced by banks or by bond insurers without limit. Bond insurers that provide credit enhancement for large segments of the fixed-income markets, including the municipal bond market, may be more susceptible to being downgraded or defaulting during recessions or similar periods of economic stress.
Risk Associated with Noninvestment-Grade Securities
Securities that are rated below investment grade or unrated securities of comparable quality (i.e., noninvestment-grade securities), also known as junk bonds, generally entail greater economic, credit and liquidity risks than investment-grade securities. For example, their prices are more volatile, economic downturns and financial setbacks may affect their prices more negatively, and their trading market may be more limited. These securities are considered speculative with respect to the issuer’s ability to pay interest and repay principal. The Fund will invest at least a majority of its assets in securities rated investment grade (or unrated securities of comparable quality), and may purchase securities rated below investment grade (or unrated securities of comparable quality) up to 49% of its assets.
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RISK RELATED TO THE ECONOMY
The value of the Fund’s portfolio may decline in tandem with a drop in the overall value of the markets in which the Fund invests and/or other markets based on negative developments in the U.S. and global economies. Economic, political and financial conditions, or industry or economic trends and developments, may, from time to time, and for varying periods of time, cause volatility, illiquidity or other potentially adverse effects in the financial markets, including the fixed-income market. The commencement, continuation or ending of government policies and economic stimulus programs, changes in monetary policy, increases or decreases in interest rates, or other factors or events that affect the financial markets, including the fixed-income markets, may contribute to the development of or increase in volatility, illiquidity, shareholder redemptions and other adverse effects which could negatively impact the Fund’s performance. For example, the value of certain portfolio securities may rise or fall in response to changes in interest rates, which could result from a change in government policies, and has the potential to cause investors to move out of certain portfolio securities, including fixed-income securities. This may increase redemptions from funds that hold large amounts of certain securities, and may result in decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the financial markets. Market factors, such as the demand for particular portfolio securities, may cause the price of certain portfolio securities to fall while the prices of other securities rise or remain unchanged. Among other investments, lower-grade bonds may be particularly sensitive to changes in the economy.
Epidemic and Pandemic Risk
An outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus was first detected in China in late 2019 and subsequently spread globally (“COVID-19”). This coronavirus has resulted in closing borders, enhanced health screenings, disruptions to healthcare service preparation and delivery, quarantines, cancellations, and disruptions to supply chains, workflow operations and consumer activity, as well as general concern and uncertainty. The impact of this coronavirus may be short-term or may last for an extended period of time and has resulted in a substantial economic downturn. Health crises caused by outbreaks, such as the coronavirus outbreak, may exacerbate other pre-existing political, social and economic risks. The impact of this outbreak, and other epidemics and pandemics that may arise in the future, could continue to negatively affect the worldwide economy, as well as the economies of individual countries, individual companies, including certain Fund service providers and issuers of the Fund’s investments, and the markets in general in significant and unforeseen ways. Any such impact could adversely affect the Fund’s performance.
The United States has responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic distress with fiscal and monetary stimulus packages. In late March 2020, the government passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”), a stimulus package providing for over $2.2 trillion in resources to small businesses, state and local governments, and individuals that have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, in mid-March 2020 the U.S. Federal Reserve (“Fed”) cut interest rates to historically low levels and announced a new round of quantitative easing, including purchases of corporate and municipal government bonds. The Fed also enacted various programs to support liquidity operations and funding in the financial markets, including expanding its reverse repurchase agreement operations, adding $1.5 trillion of liquidity to the banking system; establishing swap lines with other major central banks to provide dollar funding; establishing a program to support money market funds; easing various bank capital buffers; providing funding backstops for businesses to provide bridging loans for up to four years; and providing funding to help credit flow in asset-backed securities markets. The Fed also plans to extend credit to small- and medium-sized businesses.
Risk of Investing in Derivative Contracts and Hybrid Instruments
The Fund’s exposure to derivative contracts and hybrid instruments (either directly or through its investment in another investment company) involves risks different from, or possibly greater than, the risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments. First, changes in the value of the derivative contracts and hybrid instruments in which the Fund invests may not be correlated with changes in the value of the underlying Reference Instruments or, if they are correlated, may move in the opposite direction than originally anticipated. Second, while some strategies involving derivatives may reduce the risk of loss, they may also reduce potential gains or, in some cases, result in losses by offsetting favorable price movements in portfolio holdings. Third, there is a risk that derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may be erroneously priced or improperly valued and, as a result, the Fund may need to make increased cash payments to the counterparty. Fourth, exposure to derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may have tax consequences to the Fund and its shareholders. For example, derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may cause the Fund to realize increased ordinary income or short-term capital gains (which are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes) and, as a result, may increase taxable distributions to shareholders. In addition, under certain circumstances certain derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may cause the Fund to: (a) incur an excise tax on a portion of the income related to those contracts and instruments; and/or (b) reclassify, as a return of capital, some or all of the
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distributions previously made to shareholders during the fiscal year as dividend income. Fifth, a common provision in OTC derivative contracts permits the counterparty to terminate any such contract between it and the Fund, if the value of the Fund’s total net assets declines below a specified level over a given time period. Factors that may contribute to such a decline (which usually must be substantial) include significant shareholder redemptions and/or a marked decrease in the market value of the Fund’s investments. Any such termination of the Fund’s OTC derivative contracts may adversely affect the Fund (for example, by increasing losses and/or costs, and/or preventing the Fund from fully implementing its investment strategies). Sixth, the Fund may use a derivative contract to benefit from a decline in the value of a Reference Instrument. If the value of the Reference Instrument declines during the term of the contract, the Fund makes a profit on the difference (less any payments the Fund is required to pay under the terms of the contract). Any such strategy involves risk. There is no assurance that the Reference Instrument will decline in value during the term of the contract and make a profit for the Fund. The Reference Instrument may instead appreciate in value creating a loss for the Fund. Seventh, a default or failure by a CCP or an FCM (also sometimes called a “futures broker”), or the failure of a contract to be transferred from an Executing Dealer to the FCM for clearing, may expose the Fund to losses, increase its costs, or prevent the Fund from entering or exiting derivative positions, accessing margin, or fully implementing its investment strategies. The central clearing of a derivative and trading of a contract over a SEF could reduce the liquidity in, or increase costs of entering into or holding, any contracts. Finally, derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may also involve other risks described in this Prospectus, such as interest rate, credit, liquidity and leverage risks.
technology Risk
The Adviser uses various technologies in managing the Fund, consistent with its investment objective(s) and strategy described in this Prospectus. For example, proprietary and third-party data and systems are utilized to support decision-making for the Fund. Data imprecision, software or other technology malfunctions, programming inaccuracies and similar circumstances may impair the performance of these systems, which may negatively affect Fund performance.
What Do Shares Cost?
CALCULATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
When the Fund receives your transaction request in proper form (as described in this Prospectus under the sections entitled “How to Purchase Shares” and “How to Redeem and Exchange Shares”), it is processed at the next calculated net asset value of a Share (NAV) plus any applicable front-end sales charge (“public offering price”). A Share’s NAV is determined as of the end of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time), each day the NYSE is open. The Fund calculates the NAV of each class by valuing the assets allocated to the Share’s class, subtracting the liabilities allocated to each class and dividing the balance by the number of Shares of the class outstanding. The NAV for each class of Shares may differ due to the level of expenses allocated to each class as well as a result of the variance between the amount of accrued investment income and capital gains or losses allocated to each class and the amount actually distributed to shareholders of each class. The Fund’s current NAV and/or public offering price may be found at FederatedInvestors.com, via online news sources and in certain newspapers.
You can purchase, redeem or exchange Shares any day the NYSE is open.
When the Fund holds fixed-income securities that trade on days the NYSE is closed, the value of the Fund’s assets may change on days you cannot purchase or redeem Shares.
In calculating its NAV, the Fund generally values investments as follows:
■ Fixed-income securities are fair valued using price evaluations provided by a pricing service approved by the Board of Trustees (“Board”).
■ Derivative contracts listed on exchanges are valued at their reported settlement or closing price, except that options are valued at the mean of closing bid and asked quotations.
■ Over-the-counter (OTC) derivative contracts are fair valued using price evaluations provided by a pricing service approved by the Board.
If any price, quotation, price evaluation or other pricing source is not readily available when the NAV is calculated, if the Fund cannot obtain price evaluations from a pricing service or from more than one dealer for an investment within a reasonable period of time as set forth in the Fund’s valuation policies and procedures, or if information furnished by a pricing service, in the opinion of the Valuation Committee, is deemed not representative of the fair value of such security, the Fund uses the fair value of the investment determined in accordance with the procedures generally described below. There can be no assurance that the Fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it sold the investment at approximately the time at which the Fund determines its NAV per share.
Shares of other mutual funds are valued based upon their reported NAVs. The prospectuses for these mutual funds explain the circumstances under which they will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.
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Fair Valuation
The Board has ultimate responsibility for determining the fair value of investments for which market quotations are not readily available. The Board has appointed a Valuation Committee comprised of officers of the Fund, the Adviser and certain of the Adviser’s affiliated companies to assist in determining fair value and in overseeing the calculation of the NAV. The Board has also authorized the use of pricing services recommended by the Valuation Committee to provide fair value evaluations of the current value of certain investments for purposes of calculating the NAV. In the event that market quotations and price evaluations are not available for an investment, the Valuation Committee determines the fair value of the investment in accordance with procedures adopted by the Board. The Board periodically reviews and approves the fair valuations made by the Valuation Committee and any changes made to the procedures. The Fund’s SAI discusses the methods used by pricing services and the Valuation Committee to assist the Board in valuing investments.
Using fair value to price investments may result in a value that is different from an investment’s most recent closing price and from the prices used by other mutual funds to calculate their NAVs. The application of the fair value procedures to an investment represent a good faith determination of such investment’s fair value. There can be no assurance that the Fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it sold the investment at approximately the time at which the Fund determines its NAV per share, and the actual value could be materially different.
SALES CHARGE INFORMATION
The following table summarizes the minimum investment amount and the maximum sales charge, if any, that you will pay on an investment in the Fund. Keep in mind that financial intermediaries may charge you fees for their services in connection with your Share transactions.
 
Minimum
Initial/Subsequent
Investment
Amounts1
Maximum Sales Charges
Shares Offered
Front-End
Sales Charge2
Contingent
Deferred
Sales Charge3
A2
$1,500/$100
1.50%
0.00%
1
Please see “By Systematic Investment Program” for applicable minimum investment. Financial intermediaries may impose higher or lower minimum
investment requirements on their customers than those imposed by the Fund. 
2
Front-End Sales Charge is expressed as a percentage of public offering price. See “Sales Charge When You Purchase.”
3
See “Sales Charge When You Redeem.”
SALES CHARGE WHEN YOU PURCHASE
The following table lists the sales charges which will be applied to your Share purchase, subject to the breakpoint discounts indicated in the table and described below.
Purchase Amount
Sales Charge
as a Percentage
of Public
Offering Price
Sales Charge
as a Percentage
of NAV
Less than $100,000
1.50%
1.52%
$100,000 but less than $250,000
1.25%
1.27%
$250,000 but less than $500,000
1.00%
1.01%
$500,000 and Over1
0.00%
0.00%
1
A contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) of 0.50% of the redemption amount applies to Shares originally purchased in the amount of $500,000 or more and redeemed up to 18 months after purchase under certain investment programs where a financial intermediary received an advance payment on the transaction. CDSC exceptions may apply. See “Sales Charge When You Redeem.”
REDUCING THE SALES CHARGE WITH BREAKPOINT DISCOUNTS
Your investment may qualify for a reduction or elimination of the sales charge, also known as a breakpoint discount. The breakpoint discounts offered by the Fund are indicated in the table above.
You or your financial intermediary must notify the Fund’s Transfer Agent of eligibility for any applicable breakpoint discount at the time of purchase.
In order to receive the applicable breakpoint discount, it may be necessary at the time of purchase for you to inform your financial intermediary or the Transfer Agent of the existence of other accounts in which there are holdings eligible to be aggregated to meet a sales charge breakpoint (“Qualifying Accounts”). Qualifying Accounts mean those share accounts in the Federated Hermes funds held directly or through a financial intermediary or through a single-participant retirement
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account by you, your spouse, your parents (if you are under age 21) and/or your children under age 21, which can be linked using tax identification numbers (TINs), social security numbers (SSNs) or broker identification numbers (BINs). Accounts held through 401(k) plans and similar multi-participant retirement plans, or through “Section 529” college savings plans or those accounts which cannot be linked using TINs, SSNs or BINs, are not Qualifying Accounts.
In order to verify your eligibility for a breakpoint discount, you will be required to provide to your financial intermediary or the Transfer Agent certain information on your New Account Form and may be required to provide account statements regarding Qualifying Accounts. If you purchase through a financial intermediary, you may be asked to provide additional information and records as required by the financial intermediary. Failure to provide proper notification or verification of eligibility for a breakpoint discount may result in your not receiving a breakpoint discount to which you are otherwise entitled. Breakpoint discounts apply only to your current purchase and do not apply retroactively to previous purchases. The sales charges applicable to the Shares offered in this Prospectus, and the breakpoint discounts offered with respect to such Shares, are described in full in this Prospectus. Because the Prospectus is available on Federated Hermes’ website free of charge, Federated Hermes does not disclose this information separately on the website.
Contingent upon notification to the Transfer Agent, the sales charge at purchase of the A2 class only, may be reduced or eliminated by:
Larger Purchases
■ Purchasing the A2 class in greater quantities to reduce the applicable sales charge;
Concurrent and Accumulated Purchases
■ Excluding any Federated Hermes Fund A class without a sales charge (“no-load A class”), combining concurrent purchases of and/or current investments in the A2 class, A class, B class, C class, F class and R class shares of any Federated Hermes Fund made or held by Qualifying Accounts; the purchase amount used in determining the sales charge on your additional Share purchase will be calculated by multiplying the respective maximum public offering price times the number of the A2 class, A class, B class, C class, F class and R class shares of any Federated Hermes Fund currently held in Qualifying Accounts and adding the dollar amount of your current purchase; or
Letter of Intent
■ Signing a letter of intent to purchase a qualifying amount of the A2 class within 13 months. (Call your financial intermediary or the Fund for more information.) The Fund’s custodian will hold Shares in escrow equal to the maximum applicable sales charge. If you complete the Letter of Intent, the Custodian will release the Shares in escrow to your account. If you do not fulfill the Letter of Intent, the Custodian will redeem the appropriate amount from the Shares held in escrow to pay the sales charges that were not applied to your purchases.
ELIMINATING The SALES CHARGE
Your investment may qualify for a sales charge waiver. Sales charge waivers offered by the Fund are listed below. In order to receive a sales charge waiver, you must inform your financial intermediary or the Transfer Agent at the time of each purchase that your investment is eligible for a waiver. It is possible that your financial intermediary may not, in accordance with its policies, procedures and system limitations, be able to ensure your receipt of one or more of these waiver categories. In this situation, you would need to invest directly through the Fund’s Transfer Agent. If you do not let your financial intermediary or the Transfer Agent know that your investment is eligible for a sales charge waiver at the time of purchase, you may not receive the waiver to which you may otherwise be entitled.
Contingent upon notification to the Transfer Agent, the sales charge will be eliminated when you purchase or acquire Shares:
■ within 120 days of redeeming Shares of an equal or greater amount (see “120 Day Reinstatement Program” below);
■ through an eligible program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement, or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary);
■ with reinvested dividends or capital gains;
■ issued in connection with the merger, consolidation, or acquisition of the assets of another fund. Further, the sales charge will be eliminated on purchases of Shares made by a shareholder that originally became a shareholder of a Federated Hermes Fund pursuant to the terms of an agreement and plan of reorganization which permits shareholders to acquire Shares at NAV, provided that such purchased Shares are held directly with the Fund’s transfer agent. If the Shares are held through a financial intermediary the sales charge waiver will not apply;
■ as a Federated Life Member (Federated Hermes shareholders who originally were issued shares through the “Liberty Account,” which was an account for the Liberty Family of Funds on February 28, 1987, or who invested through an affinity group prior to August 1, 1987, into the Liberty Account);
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■ as a Trustee, employee or former employee of the Fund, the Adviser, the Distributor and their affiliates, an employee of any financial intermediary that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the Distributor, an immediate family member of these individuals or a trust, pension or profit-sharing plan for these individuals; or
■ pursuant to the exchange privilege.
The sales charge will not be eliminated if you purchase Shares of the Fund through an exchange of shares of any no-load A class unless your no-load A class shares were acquired through an exchange of shares on which the sales charge had previously been paid.
sales charge when you redeem
Your redemption proceeds may be reduced by a sales charge, commonly referred to as a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC). Shares otherwise subject to a CDSC will not be charged a CDSC at the time of an exchange; however, the CDSC will continue to be measured from the date of your original purchase. The CDSC schedule applicable to your original purchase will continue to apply to the shares you receive in an exchange.
To keep the sales charge as low as possible, the Fund redeems your Shares in this order:
■ Shares that are not subject to a CDSC; and
■ Shares held the longest. (To determine the number of years your Shares have been held, include the time you held shares of other Federated Hermes funds that have been exchanged for Shares of this Fund.)
The CDSC is then calculated using the Share price at the time of purchase or redemption, whichever is lower.
A2:
 
 
If you make a purchase of the A2 class in the amount of $500,000 or more and your financial intermediary received an advance commission on the sale, you will
pay a 0.50% CDSC on any such Shares redeemed within 18 months of the purchase.
Your redemption may qualify for a waiver of the CDSC. The CDSC waivers offered by the Fund are listed below. In order to receive a waiver of the CDSC, you must inform your financial intermediary or the Transfer Agent at the time of each redemption that your investment is eligible for a waiver. It is possible that your financial intermediary may not, in accordance with its policies, procedures and system limitations, be able to ensure your receipt of one or more of these waiver categories. In this situation, you would need to invest directly through the Fund’s Transfer Agent in order to take advantage of the waiver. If you do not let your financial intermediary or the Transfer Agent know that your redemption is eligible for a CDSC waiver at the time of redemption, you may not receive the waiver to which you may otherwise be entitled.
Contingent upon notification to the Transfer Agent, you will not be charged a CDSC when redeeming Shares:
■ following the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account or the post-purchase disability of all registered shareholders, as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the beneficiary on an account with a Transfer on Death registration is deemed the last surviving shareholder on the account);
■ due to the termination of a trust following the death of the trustor/grantor or beneficiary, provided that the trust document specifically states that the trust is terminated upon the death;
■ representing minimum required distributions from an IRA or other retirement plan as required under the Internal Revenue Code;
■ purchased by Trustees, employees of the Fund, the Adviser, the Distributor and their affiliates, by employees of a financial intermediary that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the Distributor, by the immediate family members of the above persons and by trusts, pension or profit-sharing plans for the above persons;
■ purchased with reinvested dividends or capital gains;
■ redeemed by the Fund when it closes an account for not meeting the minimum balance requirements .
■ purchased in the amount of $500,000 or more and redeemed within 18 months of purchase if the Shares were originally purchased through an eligible program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary) and where the Financial Intermediary has agreed with the principal underwriter not to receive an advanced commission on purchases under such program;
120 DAY REINSTATEMENT PROGRAM
Within 120 days of redeeming Class A2 Shares of the Fund, upon proper notification to the Fund’s Transfer Agent, you may reinvest all or a portion of the redemption proceeds in Class A2 Shares of the Fund at net asset value, without the imposition of a sales charge or CDSC. Please note:
■ The ownership of the account receiving the purchase is not required to be identical to that of the account in which the redemption was placed; however, the registration of the account receiving the purchase must include at least one registered shareholder of the account from which the redemption occurred.
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■ You will not be reimbursed for any fees originally incurred on the redemption (e.g., CDSC or redemption fees) by subsequently participating in the 120 Day Reinstatement Program.
■ The 120 Day Reinstatement Program does not supersede or override any restrictions placed on an account due to frequent trading and/or client contractual issues.
Additional operational restrictions may apply, please contact a Client Service Representative at 1-800-341-7400 for more information.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON THE AVAILABILITY OF CERTAIN WAIVERS AND DISCOUNTS
The availability of certain sales charge waivers and discounts will depend on whether you purchase your shares directly from the Fund or through a financial intermediary. Certain financial intermediaries may have different policies and procedures regarding the availability of front-end sales load waivers or CDSC waivers which are discussed in Appendix B to this Prospectus. The information contained in Appendix B is provided by these financial intermediaries. Please contact your financial intermediary to ensure that you have the most current information regarding the sales charge waivers and discounts available to you and that you understand the steps you must take to qualify for available waivers and discounts. In all instances, it is the shareholder’s responsibility to notify the Fund or the shareholder’s Financial Intermediary at the time of purchase of any relationship or other facts qualifying the investor for sales charge waivers or discounts. For waivers and discounts not available through a particular financial intermediary, shareholders will have to purchase Fund shares directly from the Fund or through another financial intermediary to receive these waivers or discounts.
How is the Fund Sold?
The Fund has established the following Share classes: Class A Shares (A), Class A2 Shares (A2), Institutional Shares (IS) and Service Shares (SS), each representing interests in a single portfolio of securities. This Prospectus relates to the A2 class. All Share classes have different sales charges and/or other expenses which affect their performance. Please note that certain purchase restrictions may apply. Contact your financial intermediary or call 1-800-341-7400 for more information concerning the other classes.
The A2 class offered through this Prospectus is available for purchase to shareholders investing through certain financial intermediaries that have entered into an agreement with the Fund’s Distributor, Federated Securities Corp. The A2 class may also be purchased directly from the Fund in certain circumstances.
Under the Distributor’s Contract with the Fund, the Distributor, offers Shares on a continuous, best-efforts basis. The Distributor is a subsidiary of Federated Hermes, Inc., (“Federated Hermes,” formerly Federated Investors, Inc.). The Fund may not be a suitable investment for retirement plans.
Intra-Fund Share Conversion Program
A shareholder in the Fund’s Shares may convert their Shares at net asset value to any other share class of the Fund if the shareholder meets the investment minimum and eligibility requirements for the share class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable. The share conversion program is not applicable to the Fund’s Class A Shares subject to a contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. Such conversion of classes should not result in a realization event for tax purposes. Contact your financial intermediary or call 1-800-341-7400 to convert your Shares.
Payments to Financial Intermediaries
The Fund and its affiliated service providers may pay fees as described below to financial intermediaries (such as broker-dealers, banks, investment advisers or third-party administrators) whose customers are shareholders of the Fund.
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FRONT-END SALES CHARGE REALLOWANCES
The Distributor receives a front-end sales charge on certain Share sales. The Distributor pays a portion of this charge to financial intermediaries that are eligible to receive it (the “Dealer Reallowance”) and retains any remaining portion of the front-end sales charge.
When a financial intermediary’s customer purchases Shares, the financial intermediary may receive a Dealer Reallowance as follows:
A2 Class:
 
Purchase Amount
Dealer Reallowance
as a Percentage of
Public Offering Price
Less than $100,000
1.00%
$100,000 or greater
0.00%
ADVANCE COMMISSIONS
When a financial intermediary’s customer purchases Shares, the financial intermediary may receive an advance commission as follows:
A2 (for purchases over $500,000):
 
Purchase Amount
Advance Commission
as a Percentage of
Public Offering Price
First $500,000 - $20 million
0.50%
Over $20 million
0.25%
Advance commissions are calculated on a year-by-year basis based on amounts invested during that year. Accordingly, with respect to additional purchase amounts, the advance commission breakpoint resets annually to the first breakpoint on the anniversary of the first purchase.
The A2 class purchases under this program may be made by Letter of Intent or by combining concurrent purchases. The above advance commission will be paid only on those purchases that were not previously subject to a front-end sales charge or dealer advance commission. Certain retirement accounts may not be eligible for this program.
RULE 12b-1 FEES
The Board has adopted a Rule 12b-1 Plan, which allows payment of marketing fees of up to 0.25% of average net assets to the Distributor for the sale, distribution, administration and customer servicing of the Fund’s A2 class. When the Distributor receives Rule 12b-1 Fees, it may pay some or all of them to financial intermediaries whose customers purchase Shares. Federated Hermes and its subsidiaries may benefit or sustain losses from such arrangements. Because these Shares pay marketing fees on an ongoing basis, your investment cost may be higher over time than other shares with different sales charges and marketing fees.
service fees
The A2 class may pay Service Fees of up to 0.25% of average net assets to financial intermediaries or to Federated Shareholder Services Company (FSSC), a subsidiary of Federated Hermes, for providing services to shareholders and maintaining shareholder accounts. Intermediaries that receive Service Fees may include a company affiliated with management of Federated Hermes. If a financial intermediary receives Service Fees on an account, it is not eligible to also receive Account Administration Fees on that same account.
The Fund has no present intention of paying, accruing or incurring any such Service Fees on the A2 class until such time as approved by the Fund’s Board of Trustees.
ACCOUNT ADMINISTRATION FEES
The A2 class may pay Account Administration Fees of up to 0.25% of average net assets to banks that are not registered as broker-dealers or investment advisers for providing administrative services to the Fund and its shareholders. If a financial intermediary receives Account Administration Fees on an account, it is not eligible to also receive Service Fees or Recordkeeping Fees on that same account.
The Fund has no present intention of paying, accruing or incurring any such Account Administration Fees on the A2 class until such time as approved by the Fund’s Board of Trustees.
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RECORDKEEPING FEES
The Fund may pay Recordkeeping Fees on an average-net-assets basis or on a per-account-per-year basis to financial intermediaries for providing recordkeeping services to the Fund and its shareholders. If a financial intermediary receives Recordkeeping Fees on an account, it is not eligible to also receive Account Administration Fees or Networking Fees on that same account.
networking fees
The Fund may reimburse Networking Fees on a per-account-per-year basis to financial intermediaries for providing administrative services to the Fund and its shareholders on certain non-omnibus accounts. If a financial intermediary receives Networking Fees on an account, it is not eligible to also receive Recordkeeping Fees on that same account.
ADDITIONAL PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
The Distributor may pay out of its own resources amounts to certain financial intermediaries, including broker-dealers, banks, registered investment advisers, independent financial planners and retirement plan administrators, that support the sale of Shares or provide services to Fund shareholders. The amounts of these payments could be significant, and may create an incentive for the financial intermediary or its employees or associated persons to recommend or sell Shares of the Fund to you. Not all financial intermediaries receive such payments, and the amount of compensation may vary by intermediary. In some cases, such payments may be made by or funded from the resources of companies affiliated with the Distributor (including the Adviser). These payments are not reflected in the fees and expenses listed in the fee table section of the Fund’s Prospectus and described above because they are not paid by the Fund.
These payments are negotiated and may be based on such factors as: the number or value of Shares that the financial intermediary sells or may sell; the value of client assets invested; the level and types of services or support furnished by the financial intermediary; or the Fund’s and/or other Federated Hermes funds’ relationship with the financial intermediary. These payments may be in addition to payments, as described above, made by the Fund to the financial intermediary. In connection with these payments, the financial intermediary may elevate the prominence or profile of the Fund and/or other Federated Hermes funds, within the financial intermediary’s organization by, for example, placement on a list of preferred or recommended funds and/or granting the Distributor preferential or enhanced opportunities to promote the funds in various ways within the financial intermediary’s organization. You can ask your financial intermediary for information about any payments it receives from the Distributor or the Fund and any services provided, as well as about fees and/or commissions it charges.
How to Purchase Shares
You may purchase Shares of the Fund any day the NYSE is open. Shares will be purchased at the NAV next calculated after your investment is received by the Fund, or its agent, in proper form. The Fund reserves the right to reject any request to purchase or exchange Shares. New investors must submit a completed New Account Form. All accounts, including those for which there is no minimum initial investment amount required, are subject to the Fund’s policy on “Accounts with Low Balances” as discussed later in this Prospectus.
The A2 class offered through this Prospectus is available for purchase to shareholders investing through certain financial intermediaries that have entered into an agreement with the Fund’s Distributor. The A2 class may also be purchased directly from the Fund in certain circumstances.
Where the Fund offers more than one Share class and you do not specify the class choice on your New Account Form or form of payment (e.g., Federal Reserve wire or check), you automatically will receive the A class.
For important account information, see the section “Security and Privacy Protection.”
You may purchase Shares through a financial intermediary, directly from the Fund or through an exchange from another Federated Hermes fund.
THROUGH A FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY
■ Establish an account with the financial intermediary; and
■ Submit your purchase order to the financial intermediary before the end of regular trading on the NYSE (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time).
The Fund has authorized certain intermediaries to accept Share purchase orders on its behalf. When authorized intermediaries receive an order in proper form, the order is considered as being placed with the Fund, and Shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after such an order is received by the authorized intermediary. If your financial intermediary is not an authorized intermediary, the Fund or its agent must receive the purchase order in proper form from your financial intermediary by the end of regular trading on the NYSE (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) in order for your transaction to be priced at that day’s NAV. In addition, your financial intermediary must forward your payment by the
23

prescribed trade settlement date (typically within one to three business days) to the Fund’s transfer agent, State Street Bank and Trust Company (“Transfer Agent”). You will become the owner of Shares and receive dividends when your payment is received in accordance with these time frames (provided that, if payment is received in the form of a check, the check clears). If your payment is not received in accordance with these time frames, or a check does not clear, your purchase will be canceled and you could be liable for any losses, fees or expenses incurred by the Fund or the Fund’s Transfer Agent.
Financial intermediaries should send payments according to the instructions in the sections “By Wire” or “By Check.”
Financial intermediaries may impose higher or lower minimum investment requirements on their customers than those imposed by the Fund. Keep in mind that financial intermediaries may charge you fees for their services in connection with your Share transactions.
Shareholders are encouraged to ask their financial intermediary if they are an authorized agent for the Fund and about any fees that may be charged by the financial intermediary.
DIRECTLY FROM THE FUND
■ Establish your account with the Fund by submitting a completed New Account Form; and
■ Send your payment to the Fund by Federal Reserve wire or check.
You will become the owner of Shares and your Shares will be priced at the next calculated NAV after the Fund receives your wire or your check. If your check does not clear, your purchase will be canceled and you could be liable for any losses or fees incurred by the Fund or the Fund’s Transfer Agent.
By Wire
To facilitate processing your order, please call the Fund before sending the wire. Send your wire to:
State Street Bank and Trust Company
Boston, MA
Dollar Amount of Wire
ABA Number 011000028
BNF: 23026552
Attention: Federated Hermes EDGEWIRE
Wire Order Number, Dealer Number or Group Number
Nominee/Institution Name
Fund Name and Number and Account Number
You cannot purchase Shares by wire on holidays when wire transfers are restricted.
By Check
Make your check payable to The Federated Hermes Funds, note your account number on the check, and send it to:
The Federated Hermes Funds
P.O. Box 219318
Kansas City, MO 64121-9318
If you send your check by a private courier or overnight delivery service that requires a street address, send it to:
The Federated Hermes Funds
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219318
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407
Payment should be made in U.S. dollars and drawn on a U.S. bank. The Fund reserves the right to reject any purchase request. For example, to protect against check fraud the Fund may reject any purchase request involving a check that is not made payable to The Federated Hermes Funds (including, but not limited to, requests to purchase Shares using third-party checks) or involving temporary checks or credit card checks.
By Direct Deposit
You may establish Payroll Deduction/Direct Deposit arrangements for investments into the Fund by either calling a Client Service Representative at 1-800-341-7400; or by completing the Payroll Deduction/Direct Deposit Form, which is available on FederatedInvestors.com under “Resources” and then “Literature and Forms,” then “Forms.” You will receive a confirmation when this service is available.
THROUGH AN EXCHANGE
You may purchase Fund Shares through an exchange from another Federated Hermes fund. To do this you must:
■ meet any applicable shareholder eligibility requirements;
24

■ ensure that the account registrations are identical;
■ meet any applicable minimum initial investment requirements; and
■ receive a prospectus for the fund into which you wish to exchange.
An exchange is treated as a redemption and a subsequent purchase, and is a taxable transaction. The Fund reserves the right to reject any request to purchase or exchange Shares. The Fund may modify or terminate the exchange privilege at any time.
You may purchase Shares through an exchange from Class A Shares or Class A2 Shares of another Federated Hermes fund.
By Online Account Services
You may access your accounts online to purchase Shares through FederatedInvestors.com’s Shareholder Account Access system once you have registered for access. Online transactions may be subject to certain limitations including limitations as to the amount of the transaction. For more information about the services available through Shareholder Account Access, please visit FederatedInvestors.com and select “Sign In” and “Access and Manage Investments,” or call 1-800-245-4770 to speak with a Client Service Representative.
BY SYSTEMATIC INVESTMENT PROGRAM (SIP)
Once you have opened an account, you may automatically purchase additional Shares on a regular basis by completing the SIP section of the New Account Form or by contacting the Fund or your financial intermediary. The minimum investment amount for SIPs is $50.
BY AUTOMATED CLEARING HOUSE (ACH)
Once you have opened an account, you may purchase additional Shares through a depository institution that is an ACH member. This purchase option can be established by completing the appropriate sections of the New Account Form.
How to Redeem and Exchange Shares
You should redeem or exchange Shares:
■ through a financial intermediary if you purchased Shares through a financial intermediary; or
■ directly from the Fund if you purchased Shares directly from the Fund.
Shares of the Fund may be redeemed for cash, or exchanged for shares of other Federated Hermes funds as described herein, on days on which the Fund computes its NAV. Redemption requests may be made by telephone or in writing.
Redemption proceeds normally are wired or mailed within one business day for each method of payment after receiving a timely request in proper form. Depending upon the method of payment, when shareholders receive redemption proceeds can differ. Payment may be delayed for up to seven days under certain circumstances (see “Limitations on Redemption Proceeds”).
For important account information, see the section “Security and Privacy Protection.”
THROUGH A FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARY
Submit your redemption or exchange request to your financial intermediary by the end of regular trading on the NYSE (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). The redemption amount you will receive is based upon the next calculated NAV after the Fund receives the order from your financial intermediary.
DIRECTLY FROM THE FUND
By Telephone
You may redeem or exchange Shares by simply calling the Fund at 1-800-341-7400.
If you call before the end of regular trading on the NYSE (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time), you will receive a redemption amount based on that day’s NAV.
By Mail
You may redeem or exchange Shares by sending a written request to the Fund.
You will receive a redemption amount based on the next calculated NAV after the Fund receives your written request in proper form.
Send requests by mail to:
The Federated Hermes Funds
P.O. Box 219318
Kansas City, MO 64121-9318
25

Send requests by private courier or overnight delivery service to:
The Federated Hermes Funds
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219318
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407
All requests must include:
■ Fund name and Share class, account number and account registration;
■ amount to be redeemed or exchanged;
■ signatures of all shareholders exactly as registered; and
■ if exchanging, the Fund name and Share class, account number and account registration into which you are exchanging.
Call your financial intermediary or the Fund if you need special instructions.
Signature Guarantees
Signatures must be guaranteed by a financial institution which is a participant in a Medallion signature guarantee program if:
■ your redemption will be sent to an address other than the address of record;
■ your redemption will be sent to an address of record that was changed within the last 30 days;
■ a redemption is payable to someone other than the shareholder(s) of record; or
■ transferring into another fund with a different shareholder registration.
A Medallion signature guarantee is designed to protect your account from fraud. Obtain a Medallion signature guarantee from a bank or trust company, savings association, credit union or broker, dealer or securities exchange member. A notary public cannot provide a signature guarantee.
By Online Account Services
You may access your accounts online to redeem or exchange Shares through FederatedInvestors.com’s Shareholder Account Access system once you have registered for access. Online transactions may be subject to certain limitations including limitations as to the amount of the transaction. For more information about the services available through Shareholder Account Access, please visit FederatedInvestors.com and select “Sign In” and “Access and Manage Investments,” or call 1-800-245-4770 to speak with a Client Service Representative.
PAYMENT METHODS FOR REDEMPTIONS
Your redemption proceeds will be mailed by check to your address of record. The following payment options are available if you complete the appropriate section of the New Account Form or an Account Service Options Form. These payment options require a signature guarantee if they were not established when the account was opened:
■ An electronic transfer to your account at a financial institution that is an ACH member; or
■ Wire payment to your account at a domestic commercial bank that is a Federal Reserve System member.
Methods the Fund May Use to Meet Redemption Requests
The Fund intends to pay Share redemptions in cash. To ensure that the Fund has cash to meet Share redemptions on any day, the Fund typically expects to hold a cash or cash equivalent reserve or sell portfolio securities.
In unusual or stressed circumstances, the Fund may generate cash in the following ways:
■ Inter-fund Borrowing and Lending. The SEC has granted an exemption that permits the Fund and all other funds advised by subsidiaries of Federated Hermes (“Federated Hermes funds”) to lend and borrow money for certain temporary purposes directly to and from other Federated Hermes funds. Inter-fund borrowing and lending is permitted only: (a) to meet shareholder redemption requests; (b) to meet commitments arising from “failed” trades; and (c) for other temporary purposes. All inter-fund loans must be repaid in seven days or less.
■ Committed Line of Credit. The Fund participates with certain other Federated Hermes funds, on a several basis, in an up to $500,000,000 unsecured, 364-day, committed, revolving line of credit (LOC) agreement. The LOC was made available to temporarily finance the repurchase or redemption of shares of the funds, failed trades, payment of dividends, settlement of trades and for other short-term, temporary or emergency general business purposes. The Fund cannot borrow under the LOC if an inter-fund loan is outstanding.
■ Redemption in Kind. Although the Fund intends to pay Share redemptions in cash, it reserves the right to pay the redemption price in whole or in part by an “in-kind” distribution of the Fund’s portfolio securities. Because the Fund has elected to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the 1940 Act, the Fund is obligated to pay Share redemptions to any one shareholder in cash only up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the net assets represented by such Share class during any
26

90-day period. Redemptions in kind are made consistent with the procedures adopted by the Fund’s Board, which generally include distributions of a pro rata share of the Fund’s portfolio assets. Redemption in kind is not as liquid as a cash redemption. If redemption is made in kind, securities received may be subject to market risk and the shareholder could incur taxable gains and brokerage or other charges in converting the securities to cash.
LIMITATIONS ON REDEMPTION PROCEEDS
Redemption proceeds normally are wired or mailed within one business day after receiving a request in proper form. Payment may be delayed for up to seven days:
■ to allow your purchase to clear (as discussed below);
■ during periods of market volatility;
■ when a shareholder’s trade activity or amount adversely impacts the Fund’s ability to manage its assets; or
■ during any period when the Federal Reserve wire or applicable Federal Reserve banks are closed, other than customary weekend and holiday closings.
If you request a redemption of Shares recently purchased by check (including a cashier’s check or certified check), money order, bank draft or ACH, your redemption proceeds may not be made available for up to seven calendar days to allow the Fund to collect payment on the instrument used to purchase such Shares. If the purchase instrument does not clear, your purchase order will be canceled and you will be responsible for any losses incurred by the Fund as a result of your canceled order.
In addition, the right of redemption may be suspended, or the payment of proceeds may be delayed (including beyond seven days), during any period:
■ when the NYSE is closed, other than customary weekend and holiday closings;
■ when trading on the NYSE is restricted, as determined by the SEC;
■ in which an emergency exists, as determined by the SEC, so that disposal of the Fund’s investments or determination of its NAV is not reasonably practicable; or
■ as the SEC may by order permit for the protection of Fund shareholders.
You will not accrue interest or dividends on uncashed redemption checks from the Fund when checks are undeliverable and returned to the Fund.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE
You may exchange Shares of the Fund. To do this, you must:
■ meet any applicable shareholder eligibility requirements;
■ ensure that the account registrations are identical;
■ meet any applicable minimum initial investment requirements; and
■ receive a prospectus for the fund into which you wish to exchange.
An exchange is treated as a redemption and a subsequent purchase, and is a taxable transaction. The Fund reserves the right to reject any request to purchase or exchange Shares. The Fund may modify or terminate the exchange privilege at any time.
In addition, the Fund may terminate your exchange privilege if your exchange activity is found to be excessive under the Fund’s frequent trading policies. See “Account and Share InformationFrequent Trading Policies.”
Financial intermediaries may have different policies and procedures regarding the availability of intra-fund exchanges (“automatic exchanges”). These exchanges which are directed by the financial intermediary and not the Fund are discussed in Appendix B to this Prospectus.
You may exchange Shares into Class A Shares or Class A2 Shares of another Federated Hermes fund.
Systematic Withdrawal/Exchange Program
You may automatically redeem or exchange Shares. The minimum amount for all new or revised systematic redemptions or exchanges of Shares is $50 per transaction per fund. Complete the appropriate section of the New Account Form or an Account Service Options Form or contact your financial intermediary or the Fund. Your account value must meet the minimum initial investment amount at the time the program is established. This program may reduce, and eventually deplete, your account. Payments should not be considered yield or income.
Generally, it is not advisable to continue to purchase Shares subject to a sales charge while redeeming Shares using this program.
27

ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS
Telephone Transactions
The Fund will record your telephone instructions. If the Fund does not follow reasonable procedures, it may be liable for losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent telephone instructions.
Share Certificates
The Fund no longer issues share certificates. If you are redeeming or exchanging Shares represented by certificates previously issued by the Fund, you must return the certificates with your written redemption or exchange request. For your protection, send your certificates by registered or certified mail, but do not endorse them.
Security and Privacy Protection
ONLINE ACCOUNT and TELEPHONE ACCESS SECURITY
Federated Hermes will not be responsible for losses that result from unauthorized transactions, unless Federated Hermes does not follow procedures designed to verify your identity. When initiating a transaction by telephone or online, shareholders should be aware that any person with access to your account and other personal information including PINs (Personal Identification Numbers) may be able to submit instructions by telephone or online. Shareholders are responsible for protecting their identity by using strong usernames and complex passwords which utilize combinations of mixed case letters, numbers and symbols, and change passwords and PINs frequently.
Using FederatedInvestors.com’s Account Access website means you are consenting to sending and receiving personal financial information over the Internet, so you should be sure you are comfortable with the risks. You will be required to accept the terms of an online agreement and to establish and utilize a password in order to access online account services. The Transfer Agent has adopted security procedures to confirm that internet instructions are genuine. The Transfer Agent will also send you written confirmation of share transactions. The Transfer Agent, the Fund and any of its affiliates will not be liable for losses or expenses that occur from fraudulent Internet instructions reasonably believed to be genuine.
The Transfer Agent or the Fund will employ reasonable procedures to confirm that telephone transaction requests are genuine, which may include recording calls, asking the caller to provide certain personal identification information, sending you written confirmation, or requiring other confirmation security procedures. The Transfer Agent, the Fund and any of its affiliates will not be liable for relying on instructions submitted by telephone that the Fund reasonably believes to be genuine.
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING COMPLIANCE
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law requires financial institutions to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each new customer who opens a Fund account and to determine whether such person’s name appears on governmental lists of known or suspected terrorists or terrorist organizations. Pursuant to the requirements under the USA PATRIOT Act, the information obtained will be used for compliance with the USA PATRIOT Act or other applicable laws, regulations and rules in connection with money laundering, terrorism or other illicit activities.
Information required includes your name, residential or business address, date of birth (for an individual), and other information that identifies you, including your social security number, tax identification number or other identifying number. The Fund cannot waive these requirements. The Fund is required by law to reject your Account Application if the required information is not provided. If, after reasonable effort, the Fund is unable to verify your identity or that of any other person(s) authorized to act on your behalf, or believes it has identified potentially suspicious, fraudulent or criminal activity, the Fund reserves the right to close your account and redeem your shares at the next calculated NAV without your permission. Any applicable contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) will be assessed upon redemption of your shares.
The Fund has a strict policy designed to protect the privacy of your personal information. A copy of Federated Hermes’ privacy policy notice was given to you at the time you opened your account. The Fund sends a copy of the privacy notice to you annually. You may also obtain the privacy notice by calling the Fund, or through FederatedInvestors.com.
Account and Share Information
CONFIRMATIONS AND ACCOUNT STATEMENTS
You will receive confirmation of purchases, redemptions and exchanges (except for systematic transactions). In addition, you will receive periodic statements reporting all account activity, including systematic transactions, dividends and capital gains paid.
28

DIVIDENDS AND CAPITAL GAINS
The Fund declares any dividends daily and pays them monthly to shareholders. If you purchase Shares by wire, you begin earning dividends on the day your wire is received. If you purchase Shares by check, you begin earning dividends on the business day after the Fund receives your check. In either case, you earn dividends through the day your redemption request is received.
In addition, the Fund pays any capital gains at least annually, and may make such special distributions of dividends and capital gains as may be necessary to meet applicable regulatory requirements. Your dividends and capital gains distributions will be automatically reinvested in additional Shares without a sales charge, unless you elect cash payments. Dividends may also be reinvested without sales charges in shares of any class of any other Federated Hermes fund of which you are already a shareholder.
If you purchase Shares just before the record date for a capital gain distribution, you will pay the full price for the Shares and then receive a portion of the price back in the form of a taxable distribution, whether or not you reinvest the distribution in Shares. Therefore, you should consider the tax implications of purchasing Shares shortly before the record date for a capital gain. Contact your financial intermediary or the Fund for information concerning when dividends and capital gains will be paid.
Under the federal securities laws, the Fund is required to provide a notice to shareholders regarding the source of distributions made by the Fund if such distributions are from sources other than ordinary investment income. In addition, important information regarding the Fund’s distributions, if applicable, is available via the link to the Fund and share class name at FederatedInvestors.com/FundInformation.
Small Distributions and Uncashed Checks
Generally, dividend and/or capital gain distributions payable by check in an amount of less than $25 will be automatically reinvested in additional shares. This policy does not apply if you have elected to receive cash distributions that are directly deposited into your bank account via wire or ACH.
Additionally, if one or more dividend or capital gain distribution checks are returned as “undeliverable,” or remain uncashed for 180 days, all subsequent dividend and capital gain distributions will be reinvested in additional shares. No interest will accrue on amounts represented by uncashed distribution checks. For questions on whether reinvestment applies to your distributions, please contact a Client Service Representative at 1-800-341-7400.
Certain states, including the State of Texas, have laws that allow shareholders to designate a representative to receive abandoned or unclaimed property (“escheatment”) notifications by completing and submitting a designation form that generally can be found on the official state website. If a shareholder resides in an applicable state, and elects to designate a representative to receive escheatment notifications, escheatment notices generally will be delivered as required by such state laws, including, as applicable, to both the shareholder and the designated representative. A completed designation form may be mailed to the Fund (if Shares are held directly with the Fund) or to the shareholder’s financial intermediary (if Shares are not held directly with the Fund). Shareholders should refer to relevant state law for the shareholder’s specific rights and responsibilities under his or her state’s escheatment law(s), which can generally be found on a state’s official website.
ACCOUNTS WITH LOW BALANCES
Federated Hermes reserves the right to close accounts if redemptions or exchanges cause the account balance to fall below:
■ $1,500 for the A2 class (or in the case of IRAs, $250).
Before an account is closed, you will be notified and allowed at least 30 days to purchase additional Shares to meet the minimum.
TAX INFORMATION
The Fund sends an IRS Form 1099 and an annual statement of your account activity to assist you in completing your federal, state and local tax returns. It is anticipated that Fund distributions will be primarily dividends that are exempt from federal regular income tax, although a portion of the Fund’s dividends may not be exempt. Dividends may be subject to state and local taxes. In addition, the Fund may realize and distribute capital gains from time to time as a result of the Fund’s normal investment activities. Distributions of net short-term capital gains are taxable to you as ordinary income. Distributions of net long-term capital gains are taxable to you as long-term capital gains regardless of how long you have owned your Shares. The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities that generate income that is not exempt from federal or state income tax. Capital gains and non-exempt dividends are taxable whether paid in cash or reinvested in the Fund. Redemptions and exchanges are taxable sales. Please consult your tax adviser regarding your federal, state and local tax liability.
29

FREQUENT TRADING POLICIES
Frequent or short-term trading into and out of the Fund can have adverse consequences for the Fund and shareholders who use the Fund as a long-term investment vehicle. Such trading in significant amounts can disrupt the Fund’s investment strategies (e.g., by requiring it to sell investments at inopportune times or maintain excessive short-term or cash positions to support redemptions), increase brokerage and administrative costs and affect the timing and amount of taxable gains distributed by the Fund. Investors engaged in such trading may also seek to profit by anticipating changes in the Fund’s NAV in advance of the time as of which NAV is calculated.
The Fund’s Board has approved policies and procedures intended to discourage excessive frequent or short-term trading of the Fund’s Shares. The Fund monitors trading in Fund Shares in an effort to identify disruptive trading activity. The Fund monitors trades into and out of the Fund within a period of 30 days or less. The Fund may also monitor trades into and out of the Fund for potentially disruptive trading activity over periods longer than 30 days. The size of Share transactions subject to monitoring varies. Where it is determined that a shareholder has exceeded the detection amounts twice within a period of 12 months, the Fund will temporarily prohibit the shareholder from making further purchases or exchanges of Fund Shares. If the shareholder continues to exceed the detection amounts for specified periods, the Fund will impose lengthier trading restrictions on the shareholder, up to and including permanently prohibiting the shareholder from making any further purchases or exchanges of Fund Shares. Whether or not the specific monitoring limits are exceeded, the Fund’s management or the Adviser may determine from the amount, frequency or pattern of purchases and redemptions or exchanges that a shareholder is engaged in excessive trading that is or could be detrimental to the Fund and other shareholders and may prohibit the shareholder from making further purchases or exchanges of Fund Shares. No matter how the Fund defines its limits on frequent trading of Fund Shares, other purchases and sales of Fund Shares may have adverse effects on the management of the Fund’s portfolio and its performance.
The Fund’s frequent trading restrictions do not apply to purchases and sales of Fund Shares by other Federated Hermes funds. These funds impose the same frequent trading restrictions as the Fund at their shareholder level. In addition, allocation changes of the investing Federated Hermes fund are monitored, and the managers of the recipient fund must determine that there is no disruption to their management activity. The intent of this exception is to allow investing fund managers to accommodate cash flows and other activity that result from non-abusive trading in the investing fund, without being stopped from such trading because the aggregate of such trades exceeds the monitoring limits. Nonetheless, as with any trading in Fund Shares, purchases and redemptions of Fund Shares by other Federated Hermes funds could adversely affect the management of the Fund’s portfolio and its performance.
The Fund will not restrict transactions made on a non-discretionary basis by certain asset allocation programs, wrap programs, fund of funds, collective funds or other similar accounts that have been pre-approved by Federated Hermes (“Approved Accounts”). The Fund will continue to monitor transactions by the Approved Accounts and will seek to limit or restrict even non-discretionary transactions by Approved Accounts that are determined to be disruptive or harmful to the Fund.
The Fund’s objective is that its restrictions on short-term trading should apply to all shareholders that are subject to the restrictions, regardless of the number or type of accounts in which Shares are held. However, the Fund anticipates that limitations on its ability to identify trading activity to specific shareholders, including where Shares are held through intermediaries in multiple or omnibus accounts, will mean that these restrictions may not be able to be applied uniformly in all cases.
Other funds in the Federated Hermes family of funds may impose different monitoring policies or in some cases, may not monitor for frequent or short-term trading. Under normal market conditions such monitoring policies are designed to protect the funds being monitored and their shareholders and the operation of such policies and shareholder investments under such monitoring are not expected to have materially adverse impact on the Federated Hermes funds or their shareholders. If you plan to exchange your Fund Shares for shares of another Federated Hermes fund, please read the prospectus of that other Federated Hermes fund for more information.
PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS INFORMATION
Information concerning the Fund’s portfolio holdings is available via the link to the Fund and share class name at FederatedInvestors.com/FundInformation. A complete listing of the Fund’s portfolio holdings as of the end of each calendar quarter is posted on the website 30 days (or the next business day) after the end of the quarter and remains posted for six months thereafter. Summary portfolio composition information as of the close of each month is posted on the website 15 days (or the next business day) after month-end and remains posted until replaced by the information for the succeeding month. The summary portfolio composition information may include identification of the Fund’s top 10 holdings, weighted average effective maturity, weighted average effective duration and other portfolio characteristics, recent purchase and sale transactions and percentage breakdowns of the portfolio by sector and credit quality.
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You may also access portfolio information as of the end of the Fund’s fiscal quarters via the link to the Fund and share class name at FederatedInvestors.com. The Fund’s Annual and Semi-Annual Shareholder Reports contain complete listings of the Fund’s portfolio holdings as of the end of the Fund’s second and fourth fiscal quarters. Fiscal quarter information is made available on the website within 70 days after the end of the fiscal quarter. This information is also available in reports filed with the SEC at the SEC’s website at sec.gov.
Each fiscal quarter, the Fund will file with the SEC a complete schedule of its monthly portfolio holdings on “Form N-PORT.” The Fund’s holdings as of the end of the third month of every fiscal quarter, as reported on Form N-PORT, will be publicly available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov within 60 days of the end of the fiscal quarter upon filing. You may also access this information via the link to the Fund and share class name at FederatedInvestors.com.
In addition, from time to time (for example, during periods of unusual market conditions), additional information regarding the Fund’s portfolio holdings and/or composition may be posted to FederatedInvestors.com. If and when such information is posted, its availability will be noted on, and the information will be accessible from, the home page of the website.
Who Manages the Fund?
The Board governs the Fund. The Board selects and oversees the Adviser, Federated Investment Management Company. The Adviser manages the Fund’s assets, including buying and selling portfolio securities. Federated Advisory Services Company (FASC), an affiliate of the Adviser, provides certain support services to the Adviser. The fee for these services is paid by the Adviser and not by the Fund. The address of the Adviser and FASC is 1001 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222-3779.
The Adviser and other subsidiaries of Federated Hermes advise approximately 163 equity, fixed-income and money market mutual funds as well as a variety of other pooled investment vehicles, private investment companies and customized separately managed accounts (including non-U.S./offshore funds) which totaled approximately $619.4 billion in assets as of December 31, 2020. Federated Hermes was established in 1955 as Federated Investors, Inc. and is one of the largest investment managers in the United States with nearly 1,900 employees. Federated Hermes provides investment products to more than 11,000 investment professionals and institutions.
The Adviser advises approximately 75 fixed-income and money market mutual funds (including sub-advised funds) and private investment companies, which totaled approximately $370.2 billion in assets as of December 31, 2020.
PORTFOLIO MANAGEMENT INFORMATION
Jeff A. Kozemchak
Jeff A. Kozemchak, CFA, Senior Portfolio Manager, has been the Fund’s portfolio manager since June of 1996.
Mr. Kozemchak is a Senior Portfolio Manager responsible for day to day management of the Fund focusing on asset allocation, interest rate strategy and security selection. He has been with the Adviser or an affiliate since 1987; has worked in investment management since 1987; has managed investment portfolios since 1990. Education: B.S., University of Pittsburgh; M.S.I.A., Carnegie Mellon University.
Mary Jo Ochson
Mary Jo Ochson, CFA, Senior Portfolio Manager, has been the Fund’s portfolio manager since August of 2017.
Ms. Ochson is a Senior Portfolio Manager and Head of the Tax-Free Money Market Investment Group. She is responsible for overseeing the macro risk elements in the portfolio. She has been with the Adviser or an affiliate since 1982; has worked in investment management since 1982; has managed investment portfolios since 1982. Education: B.S., Pennsylvania State University; B.S., St. Francis College; M.B.A., University of Pittsburgh.
The Fund’s SAI provides additional information about the Portfolio Manager’s compensation, management of other accounts and ownership of securities in the Fund.
ADVISORY FEES
The Fund’s investment advisory contract provides for payment to the Adviser of an annual investment advisory fee of 0.40% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. The Adviser may voluntarily waive a portion of its fee or reimburse the Fund for certain operating expenses. The Adviser and its affiliates have also agreed to certain “Fee Limits” as described in the footnote to the “Risk/Return Summary: Fees and Expenses” table found in the “Fund Summary” section of this Prospectus.
A discussion of the Board’s review of the Fund’s investment advisory contract is available in the Fund’s annual and semi-annual shareholder reports for the periods ended June 30 and December 31, respectively.
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Financial Information
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The Financial Highlights will help you understand the Fund’s financial performance for its past five fiscal years. Some of the information is presented on a per Share basis. Total returns represent the rate an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the Fund, assuming reinvestment of any dividends and capital gains.
As the A2 class has not commenced operations, audited fiscal year end information is not available as of the date of this Prospectus.
The Financial Highlights information presented in this Prospectus is for the Fund’s A class and is for illustrative purposes only. Please note that the A2 class is expected to have the same net expense ratio as the A class.
This information has been audited by [To be filed by Amendment], an independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the Fund’s audited financial statements, is included in the Annual Report.
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Financial HighlightsClass A Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended June 30
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period
$10.25
$10.30
$10.22
$10.27
$10.35
Income From Investment Operations:
 
 
 
 
 
Net investment income
0.08
0.13
0.14
0.11
0.09
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
0.12
(0.05)
0.08
(0.05)
(0.08)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS
0.20
0.08
0.22
0.06
0.01
Less Distributions:
 
 
 
 
 
Distributions from net investment income
(0.08)
(0.13)
(0.14)
(0.11)
(0.09)
Net Asset Value, End of Period
$10.37
$10.25
$10.30
$10.22
$10.27
Total Return1
1.98%
0.81%
2.20%
0.60%
0.09%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
Net expenses2
0.71%
0.81%3
0.96%3
0.96%3
0.96%
Net investment income
0.78%
1.30%
1.41%
1.07%
0.86%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4
0.10%
0.11%
0.10%
0.09%
0.08%
Supplemental Data:
 
 
 
 
 
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted)
$509,643
$250,177
$178,706
$178,414
$228,127
Portfolio turnover
11%
49%
39%
18%
32%
1
Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
2
Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
3
The net expense ratio is calculated without reduction for expense offset arrangements. The net expense ratio is 0.81% for the year ended June 30, 2020 and 0.96% for the years ended June 30, 2019 and 2018, after taking into account these expense reductions.
4
This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and net investment income ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
Further information about the Fund’s performance is contained in the Fund’s Annual Report, dated June 30, 2021, which can be obtained free of charge.
33

Appendix A: Hypothetical Investment and Expense Information
The following chart provides additional hypothetical information about the effect of the Fund’s expenses, including investment advisory fees and other Fund costs, on the Fund’s assumed returns over a 10-year period. The chart shows the estimated expenses that would be incurred in respect of a hypothetical investment of $10,000, assuming a 5% return each year, and no redemption of Shares. Each chart also assumes that the Fund’s annual expense ratio stays the same throughout the 10-year period and that all dividends and distributions are reinvested. The annual expense ratio used in the chart is the same as stated in the “Fees and Expenses” table of this Prospectus (and thus may not reflect any fee waiver or expense reimbursement currently in effect). The maximum amount of any sales charge that might be imposed on the purchase of Shares (and deducted from the hypothetical initial investment of $10,000; the “Front-End Sales Charge”) is reflected in the “Hypothetical Expenses” column. The hypothetical investment information does not reflect the effect of charges (if any) normally applicable to redemptions of Shares (e.g., deferred sales charges, redemption fees). Mutual fund returns, as well as fees and expenses, may fluctuate over time, and your actual investment returns and total expenses may be higher or lower than those shown below.
FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-INTERMEDIATE MUNICIPAL FUNDA2 CLASS
ANNUAL EXPENSE RATIO: 0.81%
MAXIMUM FRONT-END SALES CHARGE: 1.50%
Year
Hypothetical
Beginning
Investment
Hypothetical
Performance
Earnings
Investment
After
Returns
Hypothetical
Expenses
Hypothetical
Ending
Investment
1
$10,000.00
$492.50
$10,342.50
$231.46
$10,262.72
2
$10,262.72
$513.14
$10,775.86
$84.87
$10,692.73
3
$10,692.73
$534.64
$11,227.37
$88.43
$11,140.76
4
$11,140.76
$557.04
$11,697.80
$92.13
$11,607.56
5
$11,607.56
$580.38
$12,187.94
$95.99
$12,093.92
6
$12,093.92
$604.70
$12,698.62
$100.01
$12,600.66
7
$12,600.66
$630.03
$13,230.69
$104.20
$13,128.63
8
$13,128.63
$656.43
$13,785.06
$108.57
$13,678.72
9
$13,678.72
$683.94
$14,362.66
$113.12
$14,251.86
10
$14,251.86
$712.59
$14,964.45
$117.86
$14,849.01
Cumulative
 
$5,965.39
 
$1,136.64
 
34

Appendix B: Sales Charge Waivers and Exchange Features for Shareholders Purchasing Through Certain Financial Intermediaries
The term “fund family,” used herein, shall refer to the Federated Hermes mutual funds.
Ameriprise Financial
CLASS A SHARES FRONT-END SALES CHARGE WAIVERS AVAILABLE AT AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL:
The following information applies to Class A shares purchases if you have an account with or otherwise purchase Fund shares through Ameriprise Financial:
Effective January 15, 2021, shareholders purchasing Fund shares through an Ameriprise Financial retail brokerage account are eligible for the following front-end sales charge waivers, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this Fund’s prospectus or SAI:
■ Employer-sponsored retirement plans (e.g., 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans and defined benefit plans). For purposes of this provision, employer-sponsored retirement plans do not include SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs or SAR-SEPs.
■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same Fund (but not any other fund within the same fund family).
■ Shares exchanged from Class C shares of the same fund in the month of or following the 7-year anniversary of the purchase date. To the extent that this prospectus elsewhere provides for a waiver with respect to exchanges of Class C shares or conversion of Class C shares following a shorter holding period, that waiver will apply.
■ Employees and registered representatives of Ameriprise Financial or its affiliates and their immediate family members.
■ Shares purchased by or through qualified accounts (including IRAs, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, 401(k)s, 403(b) TSCAs subject to ERISA and defined benefit plans) that are held by a covered family member, defined as an Ameriprise financial advisor and/or the advisor’s spouse, advisor’s lineal ascendant (mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, great grandmother, great grandfather), advisor’s lineal descendant (son, step-son, daughter, step-daughter, grandson, granddaughter, great grandson, great granddaughter) or any spouse of a covered family member who is a lineal descendant.
■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (i.e., Rights of Reinstatement).
Robert W. Baird & Co., Inc.
Effective June 15, 2020, shareholders purchasing Fund shares through a Baird platform or account will only be eligible for the following sales charge waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and CDSC waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this prospectus or the SAI.
Front-End Sales Charge Waivers on Investors A-shares Available at Baird
■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing share of the same fund;
■ Share purchase by employees and registered representatives of Baird or its affiliate and their family members as designated by Baird;
■ Shares purchase from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided: (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption; (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same accounts; and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales charge (known as rights of reinstatement);
■ Class C (i.e., level-load) shares that are no longer subject to a CDSC and are exchanged to Class A shares (or the appropriate share class) of the same fund pursuant to Baird’s intra-fund share class policies and procedures;
■ Employer-sponsored retirement plans or charitable accounts in a transactional brokerage account at Baird, including 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans and defined benefit plans. For purposes of this provision, employer-sponsored retirement plans do not include SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs or SAR-SEPs.
CDSC Waivers on Investor A and C Shares Available at Baird
■ Shares sold upon the death or disability of the shareholder;
■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in the Fund’s Prospectus;
35

■ Shares bought due to returns of excess contributions from an IRA Account;
■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code;
■ Shares sold to pay Baird fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Baird;
■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement.
Front-End Sales Charge Discounts Available at Baird: Breakpoints and/or Rights of Accumulations
■ Breakpoints as described in this prospectus;
■ Rights of accumulations which entitles shareholders to breakpoint discounts will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holding of fund family assets held by accounts within the purchaser’s household at Baird. Eligible fund family assets not held at Baird may be included in the rights of accumulations calculation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets;
■ Letters of Intent (LOI) allow for breakpoint discounts based on anticipated purchases within a fund family through Baird, over a 13-month period of time.
Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P. (EDWARD JONES)
Policies Regarding Transactions Through Edward Jones
The following information has been provided by Edward Jones
Effective on or after March 1, 2021, the following information supersedes prior information with respect to transactions and positions held in fund shares through an Edward Jones system. Shareholders purchasing Fund shares on the Edward Jones commission and fee-based platforms are eligible only for the following sales charge waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), or back-end sales charge, waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this Fund’s prospectus or statement of additional information (SAI). In all instances, it is the shareholder’s responsibility to inform Edward Jones at the time of purchase of any relationship, holdings of fund family, or other facts qualifying the purchaser for waivers or discounts. Edward Jones can ask for documentation of such circumstance. Shareholders should contact Edward Jones if they have questions regarding their eligibility for these discounts and waivers.
Front-End Sales Load Waivers on Class A and F Shares Available at Edward Jones
Sales charges are waived for the following shareholders and in the following situations:
■ Associates of Edward Jones and its affiliates and their family members who are in the same pricing group (as determined by Edward Jones under its policies and procedures) as the associate. This waiver will continue for the remainder of the associate’s life if the associate retires from Edward Jones in good-standing and remains in good standing pursuant to Edward Jones’ policies and procedures.
■ Shares purchased in an Edward Jones fee-based program.
■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment.
■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redeemed shares of the same fund family so long as the following conditions are met: 1) the proceeds are from the sale of shares within 60 days of the purchase, and 2) the sale and purchase are made in the same share class and the same account or the purchase is made in an individual retirement account with proceeds from liquidations in a non-retirement account.
■ Shares exchanged into Class A shares from another share Class so long as the exchange is into the same fund and was initiated at the discretion of Edward Jones. Edward Jones is responsible for any remaining CDSC due to the fund company, if applicable. Any future purchases are subject to the applicable sales charge as disclosed in the prospectus.
■ Exchanges from Class C shares to Class A shares of the same fund, generally, in the 84th month following the anniversary of the purchase date or earlier at the discretion of Edward Jones. Edward Jones will be responsible for any remaining CDSC due to the fund company, if applicable.
CDSC Waivers on A, B, C and F Shares Available at Edward Jones
If the shareholder purchases shares that are subject to a CDSC and those shares are redeemed before the CDSC is expired, the shareholder will be responsible to pay the CDSC except in the following conditions:
■ Shares sold upon the death or disability of the shareholder.
■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan (limited to up to 10% per year of the account value).
■ Return of excess contributions from an Individual Retirement Account (IRA).
■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts if the redemption is taken in or after the year the shareholder reaches qualified age based on applicable IRS regulations.
36

■ Shares sold to pay Edward Jones fees or costs in such cases where the transaction is initiated by Edward Jones.
■ Shares exchanged in an Edward Jones fee-based program. Edward Jones is responsible for any remaining CDSC due to the fund company, if applicable.
■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement.
■ Shares redeemed at the discretion of Edward Jones for Minimum Balances, as described below.
Front-End Load Discounts Available at Edward Jones:
Rights of Accumulation (ROA)
■ The applicable sales charge on a purchase of Class A shares is determined by taking into account all share classes (except certain money market funds and any assets held in group retirement plans) of the fund family held by the shareholder or in an account grouped by Edward Jones with other accounts for the purpose of providing certain pricing considerations (“pricing groups”). If grouping assets as a shareholder, this includes all share classes held on the Edward Jones platform and/or held on another platform. The inclusion of eligible fund family assets in the ROA calculation is dependent on the shareholder notifying Edward Jones of such assets at the time of calculation. Money market funds are included only if such shares were sold with a sales charge at the time of purchase or acquired in exchange for shares purchased with a sales charge.
■ The employer maintaining a SEP IRA plan and/or SIMPLE IRA plan may elect to establish or change ROA for the IRA accounts associated with the plan to a plan-level grouping as opposed to including all share classes at a shareholder or pricing group level.
■ ROA is determined by calculating the higher of cost minus redemptions or market value (current shares x NAV).
Letter of Intent (LOI)
■ Through a LOI, shareholders can receive the sales charge and breakpoint discounts for purchases shareholders intend to make over a 13-month period from the date Edward Jones receives the LOI. The LOI is determined by calculating the higher of cost or market value of qualifying holdings at LOI initiation in combination with the value that the shareholder intends to buy over a 13-month period to calculate the front-end sales charge and any breakpoint discounts. Each purchase the shareholder makes during that 13-month period will receive the sales charge and breakpoint discount that applies to the total amount. The inclusion of eligible fund family assets in the LOI calculation is dependent on the shareholder notifying Edward Jones of such assets at the time of calculation. Purchases made before the LOI is received by Edward Jones are not adjusted under the LOI and will not reduce the sales charge previously paid. Sales charges will be adjusted if LOI is not met.
■ If the employer maintaining a SEP IRA plan and/or SIMPLE IRA plan has elected to establish or change ROA for the IRA accounts associated with the plan to a plan-level grouping, LOIs will also be at the plan-level and may only be established by the employer.
Other Important Information REGARDING TRANSACTIONS THROUGH EDWARD JONES
Minimum Purchase Amounts
■ Initial purchase minimum: $250
■ Subsequent purchase minimum: none
Minimum Balances
■ Edward Jones has the right to redeem at its discretion fund holdings with a balance of $250 or less. The following are examples of accounts that are not included in this policy:
■ A fee-based account held on an Edward Jones platform
■ A 529 account held on an Edward Jones platform
■ An account with an active systematic investment plan or LOI
Exchanging Share Classes
■ At any time it deems necessary, Edward Jones has the authority to exchange at NAV a shareholder’s holdings in a fund to Class A shares of the same fund.
Janney Montgomery Scott LLC
Effective May 1, 2020, if you purchase or redeem Fund shares through a Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (“Janney”) brokerage account, you will be eligible for the following load waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), or back-end sales charge, waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this Fund’s Prospectus or SAI.
37

Front-end sales charge waivers on Class A Shares available at Janney
■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same fund (but not any other fund within the fund family).
■ Shares purchased by employees and registered representatives of Janney or its affiliates and their family members as designated by Janney.
■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided: (1) the repurchase occurs within ninety (90) days following the redemption; (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account; and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (i.e., right of reinstatement).
■ Employer-sponsored retirement plans (e.g., 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans and defined benefit plans). For purposes of this provision, employer-sponsored retirement plans do not include SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs, SAR-SEPs or Keogh plans.
■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement.
■ Class C shares that are no longer subject to a contingent deferred sales charge and are exchanged to Class A shares (or the appropriate share class) of the same fund pursuant to Janney’s intra-fund share class policies and procedures.
CDSC Waivers on Class A and C Shares available at Janney
■ Shares sold upon the death or disability of the shareholder.
■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in the fund’s Prospectus.
■ Shares purchased in connection with a return of excess contributions from an IRA account.
■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts if the redemption is taken in or after the year the shareholder reaches qualified age based on applicable IRS regulations.
■ Shares sold to pay Janney fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Janney.
■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement.
■ Shares exchanged into the same share class of a different Federated Hermes fund, if the shares were held for the applicable CDSC holding period (the holding period on the shares purchased in the exchange will include the holding period of the shares sold in the exchange).
Front-end sales charge discounts available at Janney: Breakpoints, Rights of Accumulation, and/or Letters of Intent
■ Breakpoints as described in the fund’s Prospectus.
■ Rights of accumulation (“ROA”), which entitle shareholders to breakpoint discounts, will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holding of fund family assets held by accounts within the purchaser’s household at Janney. Eligible fund family assets not held at Janney may be included in the ROA calculation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets.
■ Letters of intent which allow for breakpoint discounts based on anticipated purchases within a fund family, over a 13-month time period. Eligible fund family assets not held at Janney may be included in the calculation of letters of intent only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets.
Merrill Lynch
Shareholders purchasing Fund shares through a Merrill Lynch platform or account will be eligible only for the following load waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred, or back-end, sales charge waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this Fund’s prospectus or SAI.
Front-end Sales Load Waivers on Class A Shares available at Merrill Lynch
■ Employer-sponsored retirement, deferred compensation and employee benefit plans (including health savings accounts) and trusts used to fund those plans, provided that the shares are not held in a commission-based brokerage account and shares are held for the benefit of the plan;
■ Shares purchased by a 529 Plan (does not include 529 Plan units or 529-specific share classes or equivalents);
■ Shares purchased through a Merrill Lynch affiliated investment advisory program or exchanged due to the holdings moving from the program;
■ Shares exchanged due to the holdings moving from a Merrill Lynch affiliated investment advisory program to a Merrill Lynch brokerage (non-advisory) account pursuant to Merrill Lynch’s policies relating to sales load discounts and waivers;
■ Shares purchased by third party investment advisors on behalf of their advisory clients through Merrill Lynch’s platform;
■ Shares of funds purchased through the Merrill Edge Self-Directed platform (if applicable);
38

■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same fund (but not any other fund within the fund family);
■ Shares exchanged from Class C (i.e., level-load) shares of the same fund pursuant to Merrill Lynch’s policies relating to sales load discounts and waivers;
■ Employees and registered representatives of Merrill Lynch or its affiliates and their family members;
■ Directors or Trustees of the Fund, and employees of the Fund’s investment adviser or any of its affiliates, as described in the prospectus;
■ Eligible shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided: (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption; (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account; and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (known as Rights of Reinstatement). Automated transactions (i.e., systematic purchases and withdrawals) and purchases made after shares are automatically sold to pay Merrill Lynch’s account maintenance fees are not eligible for reinstatement.
CDSC Waivers on A, B and C Shares available at Merrill Lynch
■ Death or disability of the shareholder;
■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in the Fund’s prospectus;
■ Return of excess contributions from an IRA Account;
■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code;
■ Shares sold to pay Merrill Lynch fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Merrill Lynch;
■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement;
■ Shares held in retirement brokerage accounts, that are exchanged for a lower cost share class due to transfer to certain fee based accounts or platforms (applicable to A and C shares only);
■ Class A Shares received through an exchange due to the holdings moving from a Merrill Lynch affiliated investment advisory program to a Merrill Lynch brokerage (non-advisory) account pursuant to Merrill Lynch’s policies relating to sales load discounts and waivers.
Front-end load Discounts Available at Merrill Lynch:
Breakpoints, Rights of Accumulation & Letters of Intent
■ Breakpoints as described in this prospectus;
■ Rights of Accumulation (ROA) which entitle shareholders to breakpoint discounts as described in the Fund’s prospectus will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holding of fund family assets held by accounts (including 529 program holdings, where applicable) within the purchaser’s household at Merrill Lynch. Eligible fund family assets not held at Merrill Lynch may be included in the ROA calculation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets;
■ Letters of Intent (LOI) which allow for breakpoint discounts based on anticipated purchases within a fund family, through Merrill Lynch, over a 13-month period of time (if applicable).
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
Shareholders purchasing Fund shares through a Morgan Stanley Wealth Management transactional brokerage account will be eligible only for the following front-end sales charge waivers with respect to Class A shares, which may differ from and may be more limited than those disclosed elsewhere in this Fund’s Prospectus or SAI.
Front-End Sales Charge Waivers on Class A Shares Available at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
■ Employer-sponsored retirement plans (e.g., 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans and defined benefit plans). For purposes of this provision, employer-sponsored retirement plans do not include SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs, SAR-SEPs or Keogh plans;
■ Morgan Stanley employee and employee-related accounts according to Morgan Stanley’s account linking rules;
■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions when purchasing shares of the same fund;
■ Shares purchased through a Morgan Stanley self-directed brokerage account;
■ Class C (i.e., level-load) shares that are no longer subject to a contingent deferred sales charge and are exchanged to Class A shares of the same fund pursuant to Morgan Stanley Wealth Management’s intra-fund share class exchange program;
39

■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (i) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (ii) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (iii) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales charge.
OPPENHEIMER & CO., INC.
Effective May 1, 2020, shareholders purchasing Fund shares through an Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (OPCO) platform or account are eligible only for the following load waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred, or back-end, sales charge waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this Fund’s prospectus or SAI.
Front-end Sales Load Waivers on Class A Shares available at OPCO
■ Employer-sponsored retirement, deferred compensation and employee benefit plans (including health savings accounts) and trusts used to fund those plans, provided that the shares are not held in a commission-based brokerage account and shares are held for the benefit of the plan
■ Shares purchased by or through a 529 Plan
■ Shares purchased through an OPCO affiliated investment advisory program
■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions when purchasing shares of the same fund (but not any other fund within the fund family)
■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided: (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption; (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account; and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (known as Rights of Reinstatement).
■ A shareholder in the Fund’s Class C shares will have their shares automatically exchanged at net asset value to Class A shares (or the appropriate share class) of the Fund if the shares are no longer subject to a CDSC and the automatic exchange is in line with the policies and procedures of OPCO
■ Employees and registered representatives of OPCO or its affiliates and their family members
■ Directors or Trustees of the Fund, and employees of the Fund’s investment adviser or any of its affiliates, as described in this prospectus
CDSC Waivers on A, B and C Shares available at OPCO
■ Death or disability of the shareholder
■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in the Fund’s prospectus
■ Return of excess contributions from an IRA Account
■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code
■ Shares sold to pay OPCO fees but only if the transaction is initiated by OPCO
■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement
Front-end load Discounts Available at OPCO: Breakpoints, Rights of Accumulation & Letters of Intent
■ Breakpoints as described in this prospectus.
■ Rights of Accumulation (ROA), which entitle shareholders to breakpoint discounts, will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holding of fund family assets held by accounts within the purchaser’s household at OPCO. Eligible fund family assets not held at OPCO may be included in the ROA calculation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets
Raymond James & Associates, Inc., Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. and each entity’s affiliates (“Raymond James”)
Effective March 1, 2019, shareholders purchasing and redeeming Fund shares through a Raymond James platform or account, or through an introducing broker-dealer or independent registered investment adviser for which Raymond James provides trade execution, clearance, and/or custody services, will be eligible only for the following load waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred, or back-end, sales charge waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this Fund’s prospectus or SAI.
Front-End Sales Load Waivers on Class A Shares Available at Raymond James
■ Shares purchased in an investment advisory program.
■ Shares purchased within the same fund family through a systematic reinvestment of capital gains and dividend distributions.
40

■ Employees and registered representatives of Raymond James or its affiliates and their family members as designated by Raymond James.
■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided: (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption; (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account; and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (known as Rights of Reinstatement).
■ A shareholder in the Fund’s Class C shares will have their shares automatically exchanged at net asset value to Class A shares (or the appropriate share class) of the Fund if the shares are no longer subject to a CDSC and the automatic exchange is in line with the policies and procedures of Raymond James.
CDSC Waivers on A, B and C Shares Available at Raymond James
■ Death or disability of the shareholder.
■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in the fund’s prospectus.
■ Return of excess contributions from an IRA Account.
■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts due to the shareholder reaching the qualified age based on applicable IRS regulations as described in the fund’s prospectus.
■ Shares sold to pay Raymond James fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Raymond James.
■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement.
Front-End Load Discounts Available at Raymond James: Breakpoints, Rights of Accumulation, and/or Letters of Intent
■ Breakpoints as described in this prospectus;
■ Rights of accumulation which entitle shareholders to breakpoint discounts will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holding of fund family assets held by accounts within the purchaser’s household at Raymond James. Eligible fund family assets not held at Raymond James may be included in the calculation of rights of accumulation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets.
■ Letters of Intent which allow for breakpoint discounts based on anticipated purchases within a fund family, over a 13-month time period. Eligible fund family assets not held at Raymond James may be included in the calculation of letters of intent only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets.
Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated
Effective July 1, 2020, shareholders purchasing Fund shares through a Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”) platform or account or who own shares for which Stifel or an affiliate is the broker-dealer of record are eligible for the following additional sales charge waiver.
Front-End Sales Load Waiver on Class A Shares
■ Class C shares that have been held for more than seven (7) years will be converted to Class A shares of the same Fund pursuant to Stifel’s policies and procedures
All other sales charge waivers and reductions described elsewhere in the Fund’s Prospectus or SAI still apply.
41

An SAI dated November 17, 2021, is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus. Additional information about the Fund and its investments is contained in the Fund’s SAI and Annual and Semi-Annual Reports to shareholders as they become available. The Annual Report’s Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance discusses market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Fund’s performance during its last fiscal year. The SAI contains a description of the Fund’s policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of its portfolio securities. To obtain the SAI, Annual Report, Semi-Annual Report and other information without charge, and to make inquiries, call your financial intermediary or the Fund at 1-800-341-7400.
As of January 1, 2021, paper copies of the Fund’s shareholder reports will no longer be sent by mail. Instead, the reports will be made available on FederatedInvestors.com/FundInformation, and you will be notified and provided with a link each time a report is posted to the website. You may request to receive paper reports from the Fund or from your financial intermediary, free of charge, at any time. You may also request to receive documents through e-delivery.
These documents, as well as additional information about the Fund (including portfolio holdings, performance and distributions), are also available on FederatedInvestors.com.
You can obtain information about the Fund (including the SAI) by accessing Fund information from the EDGAR Database on the SEC’s website at sec.gov. You can purchase copies of this information by contacting the SEC by email at publicinfo@sec.gov.
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund
Federated Hermes Funds
4000 Ericsson Drive
Warrendale, PA 15086-7561
Contact us at FederatedInvestors.com
or call 1-800-341-7400.
Federated Securities Corp., Distributor
Investment Company Act File No. 811-3181
CUSIP 31423H106
Q455504 (11/21)
© 2021 Federated Hermes, Inc.

Statement of Additional Information
November 17, 2021
Share Class | Ticker
A2 | TBD
 
 
 

Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

A Portfolio of Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) is not a Prospectus. Read this SAI in conjunction with the Prospectus for Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund (the “Fund”), dated November 17, 2021.
This SAI incorporates by reference the Fund’s Annual Report. Obtain the Prospectus or the Annual Report without charge by calling 1-800-341-7400.
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund
Federated Hermes Funds
4000 Ericsson Drive
Warrendale, PA 15086-7561
Contact us at FederatedInvestors.com
or call 1-800-341-7400.
Federated Securities Corp., Distributor
Q455503 (11/21)
© 2021 Federated Hermes, Inc.

How is the Fund Organized?
The Fund is a diversified portfolio of Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust (“Trust”). The Trust is an open-end, management investment company that was established under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on May 8, 1981. The Trust may offer separate series of shares representing interests in separate portfolios of securities.
Effective June 26, 2020, the Trust changed its name from Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust, and the Fund changed its name from Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund.
The Board of Trustees (“Board”) has established the following classes of shares of the Fund, known as: Class A Shares, Class A2 Shares, Institutional Shares and Service Shares (“Shares”). This SAI relates to Class A2 Shares. The Fund’s investment adviser is Federated Investment Management Company (“Adviser”).
Securities in Which the Fund Invests
The principal securities or other investments in which the Fund invests are described in the Fund’s Prospectus. The Fund also may invest in securities or other investments as non-principal investments for any purpose that is consistent with its investment objective. The following information is either additional information in respect of a principal security or other investment referenced in the Prospectus or information in respect of a non-principal security or other investment (in which case there is no related disclosure in the Prospectus).
Securities Descriptions and Techniques
Fixed-Income Securities
Fixed-income securities pay interest, dividends or distributions at a specified rate. The rate may be a fixed percentage of the principal or may be adjusted periodically. In addition, the issuer of a fixed-income security must repay the principal amount of the security, normally within a specified time. Fixed-income securities provide more regular income than equity securities. However, the returns on fixed-income securities are limited and normally do not increase with the issuer’s earnings. This limits the potential appreciation of fixed-income securities as compared to equity securities.
A security’s yield measures the annual income earned on a security as a percentage of its price. A security’s yield will increase or decrease depending upon whether it costs less (a “discount”) or more (a “premium”) than the principal amount. If the issuer may redeem the security before its scheduled maturity, the price and yield on a discount or premium security may change based upon the probability of an early redemption. Securities with higher risks generally have higher yields.
The following further describes the types of fixed-income securities in which the Fund may invest.
Tax Increment Financing Bonds (A Type of Tax-Exempt Security)
Tax increment financing (TIF) bonds are payable from increases in taxes or other revenues attributable to projects within the TIF district. For example, a municipality may issue TIF bonds to redevelop a commercial area. The TIF bonds would be payable solely from any increase in sales taxes collected from the merchants in the area. The bonds could fail to pay principal or interest if merchants’ sales, and related tax collections, failed to increase as anticipated.
Municipal Leases (A Type of Tax-Exempt Security)
Municipalities may enter into leases for equipment or facilities. In order to comply with state public financing laws, these leases are typically subject to annual appropriation. In other words, a municipality may end a lease, without penalty, by not providing for the lease payments in its annual budget. After the lease ends, the lessor can resell the equipment or facility but may lose money on the sale.
The Fund may invest in securities supported by pools of municipal leases. The most common type of lease-backed securities is certificates of participation (COPs). However, the Fund may also invest directly in individual leases.
Municipal Auction Rate Securities (A Type of Tax-Exempt Security)
Municipal auction rate securities are tax-exempt securities that are issued (without a demand feature) generally for a specified term, during which the interest rate may be reset at specified intervals (such as, for example, every 7, 28, 35 or 49 days) by means of a “Dutch Auction” or similar competitive process. These securities may be referred to as “municipal auction rate notes.” In the auction, holders of such securities, and investors who seek to acquire such securities, indicate their interest in continuing to hold, or to purchase, the securities at rates that they specify to broker-dealers that serve as auction agents for the auction. If the auction is successful, a holder of such securities will be able to sell them at par value through the auction process. A “failed auction” occurs when, for example, the auction agent does not receive enough bids to cover the aggregate amount of securities that have been put up for sale at the auction, or the lowest interest rate at which all of the securities that have been put
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up for sale at the auction would be above the “maximum interest rate” set forth in the documentation for the securities, or some other reason. When a failed auction occurs, a holder of the securities may not be able to sell all or a portion of the securities it desired to sell at the auction, in which case the affected securities would pay the maximum interest rate set forth in their documentation until the next successful auction. The maximum interest rate may be a multiple of a specified index or a fixed rate, and may be dependent on other factors, such as the credit rating of the securities at the time of the auction. Municipal auction rate securities may be subject to interest rate, credit, credit enhancement, prepayment, liquidity and economic risks.
Zero-Coupon Securities (A Type of Fixed-Income Tax-Exempt Security)
Zero-coupon securities do not pay interest or principal until final maturity unlike debt securities that provide periodic payments of interest (referred to as a coupon payment). Investors buy zero-coupon securities at a price below the amount payable at maturity. The difference between the purchase price and the amount paid at maturity represents interest on the zero-coupon security. Investors must wait until maturity to receive interest and principal, which increases the interest rate and credit risks of a zero-coupon security. A zero-coupon step-up security converts to a coupon security before final maturity.
There are many forms of zero-coupon securities. Some are issued at a discount and are referred to as zero coupon or capital appreciation bonds. In addition, some securities give the issuer the option to deliver additional securities in place of cash interest payments, thereby increasing the amount payable at maturity. These are referred to as pay-in-kind, PIK or toggle securities.
Asset-Backed Securities (A Type of Fixed-Income, Tax-Exempt Security)
Asset-backed securities are payable from pools of obligations other than mortgages. Most asset-backed securities involve consumer or commercial debts with maturities of less than 10 years. However, almost any type of fixed-income assets (including other fixed-income securities) may be used to create an asset-backed security. Asset-backed securities may take the form of commercial paper, notes or pass-through certificates or other similar securities. Asset-backed securities have prepayment risks.
PACs (A Type of Municipal Mortgage-Backed Security)
PACs (“planned amortization classes”) are a sophisticated form of municipal mortgage-backed security issued with a companion class(es). PACs receive principal payments and prepayments at a specified rate. The companion classes receive principal payments and prepayments in excess of the specified rate. In addition, PACs will receive the companion classes’ share of principal payments, if necessary, to cover a shortfall in the prepayment rate. This helps PACs to control prepayment risks by increasing the risks to their companion classes.
Tax-Exempt Commercial Paper (A Type of Tax-Exempt Security)
Tax-exempt commercial paper is an obligation issued by a tax-exempt issuer with a maturity of generally less than nine months. Tax-exempt issuers may issue commercial paper to pay for current expenditures or other permissible activities. Tax-exempt issuers may constantly reissue their commercial paper and use the proceeds (or other sources) to repay maturing paper. If the tax-exempt issuer cannot continue to obtain liquidity in this fashion, and if there is not another available source of liquidity, its commercial paper may default or there may be a reduction in payments received in repayment of the tax-exempt commercial paper.
Derivative Contracts
Derivative contracts are financial instruments that require payments based upon changes in the values of designated securities, commodities, indices, or other assets or instruments including other derivative contracts, (each a “Reference Instrument” and collectively, “Reference Instruments”). Each party to a derivative contract may sometimes be referred to as a counterparty. Some derivative contracts require payments relating to an actual, future trade involving the Reference Instrument. These types of derivatives are frequently referred to as “physically settled” derivatives. Other derivative contracts require payments relating to the income or returns from, or changes in the market value of, a Reference Instrument. These types of derivatives are known as “cash settled” derivatives, since they require cash payments in lieu of delivery of the Reference Instrument.
Many derivative contracts are traded on securities or commodities exchanges. In this case, the exchange sets all the terms of the contract except for the price. Investors make payments due under their contracts through the exchange. Most exchanges require investors to maintain margin accounts through their brokers to cover their potential obligations to the exchange. Parties to the contract make (or collect) daily payments to the margin accounts to reflect losses (or gains) in the value of their contracts. This protects investors against potential defaults by the other party to the contract. Trading contracts on an exchange also allows investors to close out their contracts by entering into offsetting contracts.
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For example, the Fund could close out an open contract to buy an asset at a future date by entering into an offsetting contract to sell the same asset on the same date. If the offsetting sale price is more than the original purchase price, the Fund realizes a gain; if it is less, the Fund realizes a loss. Exchanges may limit the amount of open contracts permitted at any one time. Such limits may prevent the Fund from closing out a position. If this happens, the Fund will be required to keep the contract open (even if it is losing money on the contract), and to make any payments required under the contract (even if it has to sell portfolio securities at unfavorable prices to do so). Inability to close out a contract could also harm the Fund by preventing it from disposing of or trading any assets it has been using to secure its obligations under the contract.
The Fund may also trade derivative contracts over-the-counter (OTC) in transactions negotiated directly between the Fund and a financial institution. OTC contracts do not necessarily have standard terms, so they may be less liquid and more difficult to close-out than exchange-traded contracts. In addition, OTC contracts with more specialized terms may be more difficult to value than exchange-traded contracts, especially in times of financial stress.
The market for swaps and other OTC derivatives was largely unregulated prior to the enactment of federal legislation known as the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”). Regulations enacted by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the CFTC) under the Dodd-Frank Act require the Fund to clear certain swap contracts through a clearing house or central counterparty (a CCP).
To clear a swap through the CCP, the Fund will submit the contract to, and post margin with, a futures commission merchant (FCM) that is a clearing house member. The Fund may enter into the swap with a financial institution other than the FCM and arrange for the contract to be transferred to the FCM for clearing, or enter into the contract with the FCM itself. If the Fund must centrally clear a transaction, the CFTC’s regulations also generally require that the swap be executed on registered exchange or through a market facility that is known as a swap execution facility or SEF. Central clearing is presently required only for certain swaps and the CFTC is expected to impose a mandatory central clearing requirement for additional derivative instruments over time.
The CCP, SEF and FCM are all subject to regulatory oversight by the CFTC. In addition, most derivative market participants are now regulated as swap dealers or major swap participants and are subject to certain minimum capital and margin requirements and business conduct standards. Similar regulatory requirements are expected to apply to derivative contracts that are subject to the jurisdiction of the SEC, although the SEC has not yet finalized its regulations. In addition, uncleared OTC swaps will be subject to regulatory collateral requirements that could adversely affect the Fund’s ability to enter into swaps in the OTC market. These developments could cause the Fund to terminate new or existing swap agreements or to realize amounts to be received under such instruments at an inopportune time.
Until the mandated rulemaking and regulations are implemented completely, it will not be possible to determine the complete impact of the Dodd-Frank Act and related regulations on the Fund.
Depending on how the Fund uses derivative contracts and the relationships between the market value of a derivative contract and the Reference Instrument, derivative contracts may increase or decrease the Fund’s exposure to the risks of the Reference Instrument, and may also expose the Fund to liquidity and leverage risks. OTC contracts also expose the Fund to credit risks in the event that a counterparty defaults on the contract, although this risk may be mitigated by submitting the contract for clearing through a CCP.
The Fund may invest in a derivative contract if it is permitted to own, invest in, or otherwise have economic exposure to the Reference Instrument. The Fund is not required to own a Reference Instrument in order to buy or sell a derivative contract relating to that Reference Instrument. The Fund may trade in the following specific types and/or combinations of derivative contracts:
Futures Contracts (A Type of Derivative)
Futures contracts provide for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified amount of a Reference Instrument at a specified price, date and time. Entering into a contract to buy a Reference Instrument is commonly referred to as buying a contract or holding a long position in the asset. Entering into a contract to sell a Reference Instrument is commonly referred to as selling a contract or holding a short position in the Reference Instrument. Futures contracts are considered to be commodity contracts. The Adviser has claimed an exclusion from the definition of the term “commodity pool operator” under the Commodity Exchange Act with respect to the Fund, and therefore is not subject to registration or regulation with respect to the Fund. Futures contracts traded OTC are frequently referred to as forward contracts. The Fund can buy or sell financial futures (such as interest rate futures, index futures and security futures).
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Interest Rate Futures
An interest rate futures contract is an exchange-traded contract for which the Reference Instrument is an interest-bearing, fixed-income security or an inter-bank deposit. Two examples of common interest rate futures contracts are U.S. Treasury futures contracts and Eurodollar futures contracts. The Reference Instrument for a U.S. Treasury futures contract is a U.S. Treasury security. The Reference Instrument for a Eurodollar futures contract is the London Interbank Offered Rate (commonly referred to as LIBOR); Eurodollar futures contracts enable the purchaser to obtain a fixed rate for the lending of funds over a stated period of time and the seller to obtain a fixed rate for a borrowing of funds over that same period.
Index Futures
An index futures contract is an exchange-traded contract to make or receive a payment based upon changes in the value of an index. An index is a statistical composite that measures changes in the value of designated Reference Instruments within the index.
Security Futures
A security futures contract is an exchange-traded contract to purchase or sell in the future a specific quantity of a security (other than a Treasury security) or a narrow-based securities index at a certain price. Presently, the only available security futures contracts use shares of a single equity security as the Reference Instrument. However, it is possible that in the future, security futures contracts will be developed that use a single fixed-income security as the Reference Instrument.
Option Contracts (A Type of Derivative)
Option contracts (also called “options”) are rights to buy or sell a Reference Instrument for a specified price (the “exercise price”) during, or at the end of, a specified period. The seller (or “writer”) of the option receives a payment, or premium, from the buyer, which the writer keeps regardless of whether the buyer uses (or exercises) the option. Options may be bought or sold on a wide variety of Reference Instruments. Options that are written on futures contracts will be subject to margin requirements similar to those applied to futures contracts.
The Fund may buy the following types of options:
Call Options
A call option gives the holder (buyer) the right to buy the Reference Instrument from the seller (writer) of the option. The Fund may use call options in the following ways:
■ Buy call options on a Reference Instrument in anticipation of an increase in the value of the Reference Instrument; and
■ Write call options on a Reference Instrument to generate income from premiums, and in anticipation of a decrease or only limited increase in the value of the Reference Instrument. If the Fund writes a call option on a Reference Instrument that it owns and that call option is exercised, the Fund foregoes any possible profit from an increase in the market price of the Reference Instrument over the exercise price plus the premium received.
Put Options
A put option gives the holder the right to sell the Reference Instrument to the writer of the option. The Fund may use put options in the following ways:
■ Buy put options on a Reference Instrument in anticipation of a decrease in the value of the Reference Instrument; and
■ Write put options on a Reference Instrument to generate income from premiums, and in anticipation of an increase or only limited decrease in the value of the Reference Instrument. In writing puts, there is a risk that the Fund may be required to take delivery of the Reference Instrument when its current market price is lower than the exercise price.
The Fund may also buy or write options, as needed, to close out existing option positions.
Finally, the Fund may enter into combinations of options contracts in an attempt to benefit from changes in the prices of those options contracts (without regard to changes in the value of the Reference Instrument).
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Swap Contracts (A Type of Derivative)
A swap contract (also known as a “swap”) is a type of derivative contract in which two parties agree to pay each other (swap) the returns derived from Reference Instruments. Most swaps do not involve the delivery of the underlying assets by either party, and the parties might not own the Reference Instruments. The payments are usually made on a net basis so that, on any given day, the Fund would receive (or pay) only the amount by which its payment under the contract is less than (or exceeds) the amount of the other party’s payment. Swap agreements are sophisticated instruments that can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names.
Common swap agreements that the Fund may use include:
Interest Rate Swaps
Interest rate swaps are contracts in which one party agrees to make regular payments equal to a fixed or floating interest rate times a stated principal amount (commonly referred to as a “notional principal amount”) in return for payments equal to a different fixed or floating rate times the same principal amount, for a specific period. For example, a $10 million London Interbank Offered Rate (commonly referred to as LIBOR) swap would require one party to pay the equivalent of the London Interbank Offered Rate of interest (which fluctuates) on $10 million principal amount in exchange for the right to receive the equivalent of a stated fixed rate of interest on $10 million principal amount.
Total Return Swaps
A total return swap is an agreement between two parties whereby one party agrees to make payments of the total return from a Reference Instrument (or a basket of such instruments) during the specified period, in return for payments equal to a fixed or floating rate of interest or the total return from another Reference Instrument. Alternately, a total return swap can be structured so that one party will make payments to the other party if the value of a Reference Instrument increases, but receive payments from the other party if the value of that instrument decreases.
Credit Default Swaps
A credit default swap (CDS) is an agreement between two parties whereby one party (the “Protection Buyer”) agrees to make payments over the term of the CDS to the other party (the “Protection Seller”), provided that no designated event of default, restructuring or other credit related event (each a “Credit Event”) occurs with respect to Reference Instrument that is usually a particular bond, loan or the unsecured credit of an issuer, in general (the “Reference Obligation”). Many CDS are physically settled, which means that if a Credit Event occurs, the Protection Seller must pay the Protection Buyer the full notional value, or “par value,” of the Reference Obligation in exchange for delivery by the Protection Buyer of the Reference Obligation or another similar obligation issued by the issuer of the Reference Obligation (the “Deliverable Obligation”). The Counterparties agree to the characteristics of the Deliverable Obligation at the time that they enter into the CDS. Alternately, a CDS can be “cash-settled,” which means that upon the occurrence of a Credit Event, the Protection Buyer will receive a payment from the Protection Seller equal to the difference between the par amount of the Reference Obligation and its market value at the time of the Credit Event. The Fund may be either the Protection Buyer or the Protection Seller in a CDS. If the Fund is a Protection Buyer and no Credit Event occurs, the Fund will lose its entire investment in the CDS (i.e., an amount equal to the payments made to the Protection Seller over the term of the CDS). However, if a Credit Event occurs, the Fund (as “Protection Buyer”) will deliver the Deliverable Obligation and receive a payment equal to the full notional value of the Reference Obligation, even though the Reference Obligation may have little or no value. If the Fund is the Protection Seller and no Credit Event occurs, the Fund will receive a fixed rate of income throughout the term of the CDS. However, if a Credit Event occurs, the Fund (as “Protection Seller”) will pay the Protection Buyer the full notional value of the Reference Obligation and receive the Deliverable Obligation from the Protection Buyer. A CDS may involve greater risks than if the Fund invested directly in the Reference Obligation. For example, a CDS may increase credit risk since the Fund has exposure to both the issuer of the Reference Obligation and the Counterparty to the CDS.
Caps and Floors (A Type of Swap Contract)
Caps and Floors are contracts in which one party agrees to make payments only if an interest rate or index goes above (Cap) or below (Floor) a certain level in return for a fee from the other party.
Other Investments, Transactions, Techniques
Investing in Securities of Other Investment Companies
The Fund may invest its assets in securities of other investment companies, including the securities of affiliated money market funds, as an efficient means of implementing its investment strategies, managing its uninvested cash and/or other investment reasons consistent with the Fund’s investment objective and investment strategies. These other investment companies are managed independently of the Fund and incur additional fees and/or expenses which would, therefore, be borne indirectly by the
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Fund in connection with any such investment. These investments also can create conflicts of interests for the Adviser to the Fund and the investment adviser to the acquired fund. For example, a conflict of interest can arise due to the possibility that the Adviser to the Fund could make a decision to redeem the Fund’s investment in the acquired fund. In the case of an investment in an affiliated fund, a conflict of interest can arise if, because of the Fund’s investment in the acquired fund, the acquired fund is able to garner more assets, thereby growing the acquired fund and increasing the management fees received by the investment adviser to the acquired fund, which would either be the Adviser or an affiliate of the Adviser. However, the Adviser believes that the benefits and efficiencies of making investments in other investment companies should outweigh the potential additional fees and/or expenses and resulting conflicts of interest. The Fund may invest in money market securities directly.
Investing in Exchange-Traded Funds
The Fund may invest in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) as an efficient means of carrying out its investment strategies. As with traditional mutual funds, ETFs charge asset-based fees, although these fees tend to be relatively low. ETFs are traded on stock exchanges or on the over-the-counter market. ETFs do not charge initial sales charges or redemption fees and investors pay only customary brokerage fees to buy and sell ETF shares.
Hedging
Hedging transactions are intended to reduce specific risks. For example, to protect the Fund against circumstances that would normally cause the Fund’s portfolio securities to decline in value, the Fund may buy or sell a derivative contract that would normally increase in value under the same circumstances. The Fund may also attempt to hedge by using combinations of different derivative contracts, or derivative contracts and securities. The Fund’s ability to hedge may be limited by the costs of the derivative contracts. The Fund may attempt to lower the cost of hedging by entering into transactions that provide only limited protection, including transactions that: (1) hedge only a portion of its portfolio; (2) use derivative contracts that cover a narrow range of circumstances; or (3) involve the sale of derivative contracts with different terms. Consequently, hedging transactions will not eliminate risk even if they work as intended. In addition, hedging strategies are not always successful, and could result in increased expenses and losses to the Fund.
Hybrid Instruments
Hybrid instruments combine elements of two different kinds of securities or financial instruments (such as a derivative contract). Frequently, the value of a hybrid instrument is determined by reference to changes in the value of a Reference Instrument (that is a designated security, commodity, index or other asset or instrument including a derivative contract). Hybrid instruments can take on many forms including, but not limited to, the following forms. First, a common form of a hybrid instrument combines elements of a derivative contract with those of another security (typically a fixed-income security). In this case, all or a portion of the interest or principal payable on a hybrid security is determined by reference to changes in the price of a Reference Instrument. Second, hybrid instruments may include convertible securities with conversion terms related to a Reference Instrument.
Depending on the type and terms of the hybrid instrument, its risks may reflect a combination of the risks of investing in the Reference Instrument with the risks of investing in other securities and derivative contracts. Thus, an investment in a hybrid instrument may entail significant risks in addition to those associated with traditional securities or the Reference Instrument. Hybrid instruments are also potentially more volatile than traditional securities or the Reference Instrument. Moreover, depending on the structure of the particular hybrid, it may expose the Fund to leverage risks or carry liquidity risks.
Credit Linked Notes (A Type of Hybrid Instrument)
A credit linked note (CLN) is a type of hybrid instrument in which a special purpose entity issues a structured note (the “Note Issuer”) with respect to which the Reference Instrument is a single bond, a portfolio of bonds or the unsecured credit of an issuer, in general (each a “Reference Credit”). The purchaser of the CLN (the “Note Purchaser”) invests a par amount and receives a payment during the term of the CLN that equals a fixed or floating rate of interest equivalent to a high rated funded asset (such as a bank certificate of deposit) plus an additional premium that relates to taking on the credit risk of the Reference Credit. Upon maturity of the CLN, the Note Purchaser will receive a payment equal to: (i) the original par amount paid to the Note Issuer, if there is no occurrence of a designated event of default, restructuring or other credit event (each a “Credit Event”) with respect to the issuer of the Reference Credit; or (ii) the market value of the Reference Credit, if a Credit Event has occurred. Depending upon the terms of the CLN, it is also possible that the Note Purchaser may be required to take physical delivery of the Reference Credit in the event of a Credit Event. Most credit linked notes use a corporate bond (or a portfolio of corporate bonds) as the Reference Credit. However, almost any type of fixed-income security (including foreign government securities), index or derivative contract (such as a credit default swap) can be used as the Reference Credit.
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Inter-Fund Borrowing and Third-Party Lending Arrangements
Inter-Fund Borrowing
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has granted an exemption that permits the Fund and all other funds (“Federated Hermes funds”) advised by subsidiaries of Federated Hermes, Inc. (“Federated Hermes,” formerly, Federated Investors, Inc.”) to lend and borrow money for certain temporary purposes directly to and from other Federated Hermes funds. Participation in this inter-fund lending program is voluntary for both borrowing and lending Federated Hermes funds, and an inter-fund loan is only made if it benefits each participating Federated Hermes fund. Federated Hermes administers the program according to procedures approved by the Fund’s Board, and the Board monitors the operation of the program. Any inter-fund loan must comply with certain conditions set out in the exemption, which are designed to assure fairness and protect all participating Federated Hermes funds.
For example, inter-fund lending is permitted only: (a) to meet shareholder redemption requests; (b) to meet commitments arising from “failed” trades; and (c) for other temporary purposes. All inter-fund loans must be repaid in seven days or less. The Fund’s participation in this program must be consistent with its investment policies and limitations, and must meet certain percentage tests. Inter-fund loans may be made only when the rate of interest to be charged is more attractive to the lending Federated Hermes fund than market-competitive rates on overnight repurchase agreements (“Repo Rate”) and more attractive to the borrowing Federated Hermes fund than the rate of interest that would be charged by an unaffiliated bank for short-term borrowings (“Bank Loan Rate”), as determined by the Board. The interest rate imposed on inter-fund loans is the average of the Repo Rate and the Bank Loan Rate.
Third-Party Line of Credit
The Fund participates with certain other Federated Hermes Funds, on a several basis, in an up to $500,000,000 unsecured, 364-day, committed, revolving line of credit (LOC) agreement. The LOC was made available to temporarily finance the repurchase or redemption of shares of the Fund, failed trades, payment of dividends, settlement of trades and for other short-term, temporary or emergency general business purposes. The Fund cannot borrow under the LOC if an inter-fund loan is outstanding. The Fund’s ability to borrow under the LOC also is subject to the limitations of the 1940 Act and various conditions precedent that must be satisfied before the Fund can borrow. Loans under the LOC are charged interest at a fluctuating rate per annum equal to the highest, on any day, of: (a) (i) the federal funds effective rate; (ii) the one month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), or a replacement rate as appropriate; and (iii) 0.0%; plus (b) a margin. Any fund eligible to borrow under the LOC pays its pro rata share of an upfront fee, and its pro rata share of a commitment fee based on the amount of the lenders’ commitment that has not been utilized, quarterly in arrears and at maturity. As of the date of this Statement of Additional Information, there were no outstanding loans. During the most recently ended fiscal year, the Fund did not utilize the LOC.
Asset Segregation
In accordance with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and SEC staff positions regarding the interpretation of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”), with respect to derivatives that create a future payment obligation of the Fund, the Fund must “set aside” (referred to sometimes as “asset segregation”) liquid assets, or engage in other SEC- or staff-approved measures, while the derivative contracts are open. For example, with respect to forwards and futures contracts that are not contractually required to “cash-settle,” the Fund must cover its open positions by setting aside cash or readily marketable securities equal to the contracts’ full, notional value. With respect to forwards and futures that are contractually required to “cash-settle,” however, the Fund is permitted to set aside cash or readily marketable securities in an amount equal to the Fund’s daily marked-to-market (“net”) obligations, if any (i.e., the Fund’s daily net liability, if any), rather than the notional value.
The Fund will employ another approach to segregating assets to cover options that it sells. If the Fund sells a call option, the Fund will set aside either the Reference Instrument subject to the option, cash or readily marketable securities with a value that equals or exceeds the current market value of the Reference Instrument. In no event will the value of the cash or readily marketable securities set aside by the Fund be less than the exercise price of the call option. If the Fund sells a put option, the Fund will set aside cash or readily marketable securities with a value that equals or exceeds the exercise price of the put option.
The Fund’s asset segregation approach for swap agreements varies among different types of swaps. For example, if the Fund enters into a credit default swap as the Protection Buyer, then it will set aside cash or readily marketable securities necessary to meet any accrued payment obligations under the swap. By comparison, if the Fund enters into a credit default swap as the Protection Seller, then the Fund will set aside cash or readily marketable securities equal to the full notional amount of the swap that must be paid upon the occurrence of a Credit Event. For some other types of swaps, such as interest rate swaps, the Fund will
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calculate the obligations of the counterparties to the swap on a net basis. Consequently, the Fund’s current obligation (or rights) under this type of swap will equal only the net amount to be paid or received based on the relative values of the positions held by each counterparty to the swap (the “net amount”). The net amount currently owed by or to the Fund will be accrued daily and the Fund will set aside cash or readily marketable securities equal to any accrued but unpaid net amount owed by the Fund under the swap.
The Fund may reduce the liquid assets segregated to cover obligations under a derivative contract by entering into an offsetting derivative contract. For example, if the Fund sells a put option for the same Reference Instrument as a call option the Fund has sold, and the exercise price of the call option is the same as or higher than the exercise price of the put option, then the Fund may net its obligations under the options and set aside cash or readily marketable securities (including any margin deposited for the options) with a value equal to the greater of: (a) the current market value of the Reference Instrument deliverable under the call option; or (b) the exercise price of the put option.
By setting aside cash or readily marketable securities equal to only its net obligations under swaps and certain cash-settled derivative contracts, the Fund will have the ability to employ leverage to a greater extent than if the Fund were required to segregate cash or readily marketable securities equal to the full notional value of such contracts. The use of leverage involves certain risks. See “Investment Risks.” Unless the Fund has other cash or readily marketable securities to set aside, it cannot trade assets set aside in connection with derivative contracts or special transactions without entering into an offsetting derivative contract or terminating a special transaction. This may cause the Fund to miss favorable trading opportunities or to realize losses on derivative contracts or special transactions. The Fund reserves the right to modify its asset segregation policies in the future to comply with any changes in the positions articulated from time to time by the SEC and its staff.
Generally, special transactions do not cash-settle on a net basis. Consequently, with respect to special transactions, the Fund will set aside cash or readily marketable securities with a value that equals or exceeds the Fund’s obligations.
Temporary Investments
The Fund may make temporary investments in taxable, fixed-income securities and the following other taxable securities (in addition to taxable repurchase agreement investments):
Treasury Securities (A Type of Fixed-Income Security)
Treasury securities are direct obligations of the federal government of the United States. Treasury securities are generally regarded as having minimal credit risks.
Bank Instruments (A Type of Fixed-Income Security)
Bank instruments are unsecured interest-bearing deposits with banks. Bank instruments include, but are not limited to, bank accounts, time deposits, certificates of deposit and banker’s acceptances. Yankee instruments are denominated in U.S. dollars and issued by U.S. branches of foreign banks. Eurodollar instruments are denominated in U.S. dollars and issued by non-U.S. branches of U.S. or foreign banks.
Government Securities (A Type of Fixed-Income Security)
Government securities are issued or guaranteed by a federal agency or instrumentality acting under federal authority. Some government securities, including those issued by Government National Mortgage Association (“Ginnie Mae”), are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States and are guaranteed only as to the timely payment of interest and principal.
Other government securities receive support through federal subsidies, loans or other benefits, but are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States. For example, the U.S. Treasury is authorized to purchase specified amounts of securities issued by (or otherwise make funds available to) the Federal Home Loan Bank System, Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“Freddie Mac”), Federal National Mortgage Association (“Fannie Mae”) and Tennessee Valley Authority in support of such obligations.
Some government agency securities have no explicit financial support and are supported only by the credit of the applicable agency, instrumentality or corporation. The U.S. government has provided financial support to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, but there is no assurance that it will support these or other agencies in the future.
Investors generally regard government securities as having minimal credit risks, but not as low as Treasury securities.
The Fund treats mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by a federal agency or instrumentality as government securities. Although such a guarantee helps protect against credit risk, it does not eliminate it entirely or reduce other risks.
Additional Information Related to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. The extreme and unprecedented volatility and disruption that impacted the capital and credit markets beginning in 2008 led to market concerns regarding the ability of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae to withstand future credit losses associated with securities held in their investment portfolios, and on which they provide guarantees, without the direct support of the federal government. On September 7, 2008, Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae
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were placed under the conservatorship of the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). Under the plan of conservatorship, the FHFA assumed control of, and generally has the power to direct, the operations of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, and is empowered to exercise all powers collectively held by their respective shareholders, directors and officers, including the power to: (1) take over the assets of and operate Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae with all the powers of the shareholders, the directors and the officers of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae and conduct all business of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae; (2) collect all obligations and money due to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae; (3) perform all functions of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae which are consistent with the conservator’s appointment; (4) preserve and conserve the assets and property of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae; and (5) contract for assistance in fulfilling any function, activity, action or duty of the conservator.
In connection with the actions taken by the FHFA, the Treasury has entered into certain preferred stock purchase agreements (SPAs) with each of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae which establish the Treasury as the holder of a new class of senior preferred stock in each of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. The senior preferred stock was issued in connection with financial contributions from the Treasury to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. Although the SPAs are subject to amendment from time to time, currently the Treasury is obligated to provide such financial contributions up to an aggregate maximum amount determined by a formula set forth in the SPAs, and until such aggregate maximum amount is reached, there is not a specific end date to the Treasury’s obligations.
The future status and role of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae could be impacted by (among other things) the actions taken and restrictions placed on Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae by the FHFA in its role as conservator, the restrictions placed on Freddie Mac’s and Fannie Mae’s operations and activities under the SPAs, market responses to developments at Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, downgrades or upgrades in the credit ratings assigned to Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae by nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (NRSROs) or ratings services, and future legislative and regulatory action that alters the operations, ownership, structure and/or mission of these institutions, each of which may, in turn, impact the value of, and cash flows on, any securities guaranteed by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae.
In addition, the future of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, and other U.S. government-sponsored enterprises that are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government (GSEs), remains in question as the U.S. government continues to consider options ranging from structural reform, nationalization, privatization or consolidation, to outright elimination. The issues that have led to significant U.S. government support for Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae have sparked serious debate regarding the continued role of the U.S. government in providing mortgage loan liquidity.
Corporate Debt Securities (A Type of Fixed-Income Security)
Corporate debt securities are fixed-income securities issued by businesses. Notes, bonds, debentures and commercial paper are the most prevalent types of corporate debt securities. The credit risk of corporate debt securities vary widely across issuers.
In addition, the credit risk of an issuer’s debt security may vary based on its priority for repayment. For example, higher ranking (“senior”) debt securities have a higher priority than lower ranking (“subordinated”) securities. This means that the issuer might not make payments on subordinated securities while continuing to make payments on senior securities. In addition, in the event of bankruptcy, holders of senior securities may receive amounts otherwise payable to the holders of subordinated securities. Some subordinated securities, such as trust-preferred and capital securities notes, also permit the issuer to defer payments under certain circumstances. For example, insurance companies issue securities known as surplus notes that permit the insurance company to defer any payment that would reduce its capital below regulatory requirements.
Commercial Paper (A Type of Corporate Debt Security)
Commercial paper is an issuer’s obligation with a maturity of less than nine months. Companies typically issue commercial paper to pay for current expenditures. Most issuers constantly reissue their commercial paper and use the proceeds (or bank loans) to repay maturing paper. If the issuer cannot continue to obtain liquidity in this fashion, its commercial paper may default. The short maturity of commercial paper generally reduces both the market and credit risks as compared to other debt securities of the same issuer.
Repurchase Agreements
Repurchase agreements are transactions in which the Fund buys a security from a dealer or bank and agrees to sell the security back at a mutually agreed-upon time and price. The repurchase price exceeds the sale price, reflecting the Fund’s return on the transaction. This return is unrelated to the interest rate on the underlying security. The Fund will enter into repurchase agreements only with banks and other recognized financial institutions, such as securities dealers, deemed creditworthy by the Adviser.
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The Fund’s custodian or subcustodian will take possession of the securities subject to repurchase agreements. The Adviser or subcustodian will monitor the value of the underlying security each day to ensure that the value of the security always equals or exceeds the repurchase price.
Repurchase agreements are subject to credit risks.
LIQUIDITY RISK MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
The Fund has adopted and implemented a written liquidity risk management program (LRMP) and related procedures to assess and manage the liquidity risk of the Fund in accordance with Section 22(e) of the 1940 Act and Rule 22e-4 thereunder. The Board has designated the Adviser, together with Federated Hermes, Inc.’s (“Federated Hermes,” formerly, Federated Investors, Inc.) other affiliated registered investment advisory subsidiaries that serve as investment advisers to other Federated Hermes funds, to collectively serve as the administrator of the LRMP and the related procedures (the “Administrator”). Rule 22e-4 defines “liquidity risk” as the risk that the Fund will be unable to meet requests to redeem shares issued by the Fund without significant dilution of the remaining investors’ interests in the Fund. As a part of the LRMP, the Administrator is responsible for classifying the liquidity of the Fund’s portfolio investments in accordance with Rule 22e-4. As part of the LRMP, the Administrator is also responsible for assessing, managing and periodically reviewing the Fund’s liquidity risk, for making periodic reports to the Board and the SEC regarding the liquidity of the Fund’s investments, and for notifying the Board and the SEC of certain liquidity events specified in Rule 22e-4. The liquidity of the Fund’s portfolio investments is determined based on relevant market, trading and investment-specific considerations under the LRMP.
Investment Risks
There are many risk factors which may affect an investment in the Fund. The Fund’s principal risks are described in its Prospectus. The following information is either additional information in respect of a principal risk factor referenced in the Prospectus or information in respect of a non-principal risk factor applicable to the Fund (in which case there is no related disclosure in the Prospectus).
Prepayment and Extension Risk
Like municipal mortgage-backed securities, asset-backed securities (including fixed-income or tax-exempt securities that are pooled or collateralized) may be subject to prepayment risks and the possibility that interest and other payments may not be made. Such investments also may be subject to interest rate, credit and the other risks described in the Fund’s Prospectus and this SAI.
Risk of Investing in Derivative Contracts and Hybrid Instruments
The Fund’s exposure to derivative contracts and hybrid instruments (either directly or through its investment in another investment company) involves risks different from, or possibly greater than, the risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments. First, changes in the value of the derivative contracts and hybrid instruments in which the Fund invests may not be correlated with changes in the value of the underlying Reference Instruments or, if they are correlated, may move in the opposite direction than originally anticipated. Second, while some strategies involving derivatives may reduce the risk of loss, they may also reduce potential gains or, in some cases, result in losses by offsetting favorable price movements in portfolio holdings. Third, there is a risk that derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may be erroneously priced or improperly valued and, as a result, the Fund may need to make increased cash payments to the counterparty. Fourth, exposure to derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may have tax consequences to the Fund and its shareholders. For example, derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may cause the Fund to realize increased ordinary income or short-term capital gains (which are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes) and, as a result, may increase taxable distributions to shareholders. In addition, under certain circumstances certain derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may cause the Fund to: (a) incur an excise tax on a portion of the income related to those contracts and instruments; and/or (b) reclassify, as a return of capital, some or all of the distributions previously made to shareholders during the fiscal year as dividend income. Fifth, a common provision in OTC derivative contracts permits the counterparty to terminate any such contract between it and the Fund, if the value of the Fund’s total net assets declines below a specified level over a given time period. Factors that may contribute to such a decline (which usually must be substantial) include significant shareholder redemptions and/or a marked decrease in the market value of the Fund’s investments. Any such termination of the Fund’s OTC derivative contracts may adversely affect the Fund (for example, by increasing losses and/or costs, and/or preventing the Fund from fully implementing its investment strategies). Sixth, the Fund may use a derivative contract to benefit from a decline in the value of a Reference Instrument. If the value of the Reference Instrument declines during the term of the contract, the Fund makes a profit on the difference (less any payments the Fund is required to pay under the terms of the contract). Any such strategy involves risk. There is no assurance that the Reference Instrument will decline in value during the term of the contract and make a profit for the Fund. The Reference
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Instrument may instead appreciate in value creating a loss for the Fund. Seventh, a default or failure by a CCP or an FCM (also sometimes called a “futures broker”), or the failure of a contract to be transferred from an Executing Dealer to the FCM for clearing, may expose the Fund to losses, increase its costs, or prevent the Fund from entering or exiting derivative positions, accessing margin or fully implementing its investment strategies. The central clearing of a derivative and trading of a contract over a SEF could reduce the liquidity in, or increase costs of entering into or holding, any contracts. Finally, derivative contracts and hybrid instruments may also involve other risks described herein or in the Fund’s Prospectus, such as interest rate, credit, liquidity and leverage risks.
Risk Associated with the Investment Activities of Other Accounts
Investment decisions for the Fund are made independently from those of other accounts managed by the Adviser and accounts managed by affiliates of the Adviser. Therefore, it is possible that investment-related actions taken by such other accounts could adversely impact the Fund with respect to, for example, the value of Fund portfolio holdings and/or prices paid to or received by the Fund on its portfolio transactions and/or the Fund’s ability to obtain or dispose of portfolio securities. Related considerations are discussed elsewhere in this SAI under “Brokerage Transactions and Investment Allocation.”
LIBOR Risk
Certain derivatives or debt securities, or other financial instruments in which the Fund may invest, as well as the Fund’s committed, revolving line of credit agreement, utilize or may utilize in the future the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR’’) as the reference or benchmark rate for interest rate calculations. LIBOR is a measure of the average interest rate at which major global banks can borrow from one another. It is quoted in multiple currencies and tenors using data reported by a panel of private-sector banks. Following allegations of rate manipulation in 2012 and concerns regarding its thin liquidity, the use of LIBOR came under increasing pressure, and in July 2017, the U.K. Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, announced that it will stop encouraging banks to provide the quotations needed to sustain LIBOR after 2021. This may cause LIBOR to cease to be published. LIBOR panel banks have agreed to submit quotations to LIBOR through the end of 2021. Before then, it is expected that market participants will transition to the use of different reference or benchmark rates. However, there is currently no definitive information regarding the future utilization of LIBOR or of any particular replacement rate. Regulators have suggested alternative reference rates, but global consensus is lacking and the process for amending existing contracts or instruments to transition away from LIBOR remains unclear.
While it is expected that market participants will amend financial instruments referencing LIBOR to include fallback provisions and other measures that contemplate the discontinuation of LIBOR or other similar market disruption events, neither the effect of the transition process nor the viability of such measures is known. While market participants have begun transitioning away from LIBOR, there are obstacles to converting certain longer term securities and transactions to a new benchmark or benchmarks. The effectiveness of multiple alternative reference rates as opposed to one primary reference rate has not been determined. The effectiveness of alternative reference rates used in new or existing financial instruments and products has also not yet been determined. As market participants transition away from LIBOR, LIBOR’s usefulness may deteriorate, which could occur prior to the end of 2021. The transition process may lead to increased volatility and illiquidity in markets that currently rely on LIBOR to determine interest rates. LIBOR’s deterioration may adversely affect the liquidity and/or market value of securities that use LIBOR as a benchmark interest rate, including securities and other financial instruments held by the Fund. Further, the utilization of an alternative reference rate, or the transition process to an alternative reference rate, may adversely affect the Fund’s performance.
CYBERSECURITY RISK
Like other funds and business enterprises, Federated Hermes’ business relies on the security and reliability of information and communications technology, systems and networks. Federated Hermes uses digital technology, including, for example, networked systems, email and the Internet, to conduct business operations and engage clients, customers, employees, products, accounts, shareholders, and relevant service providers, among others. Federated Hermes, as well as its funds and certain service providers, also generate, compile and process information for purposes of preparing and making filings or reports to governmental agencies, and a cybersecurity attack or incident that impacts that information, or the generation and filing processes, may prevent required regulatory filings and reports from being made. The use of the Internet and other electronic media and technology exposes the Fund, the Fund’s shareholders, and the Fund’s service providers, and their respective operations, to potential risks from cybersecurity attacks or incidents (collectively, “cyber-events”).
Cyber-events can result from intentional (or deliberate) attacks or unintentional events by insiders or third parties, including cybercriminals, competitors, nation-states and “hacktivists,” among others. Cyber-events may include, for example, phishing, use of stolen access credentials, unauthorized access to systems, networks or devices (such as, for example, through “hacking” activity), structured query language attacks, infection from or spread of malware, ransomware, computer viruses or other
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malicious software code, corruption of data, and attacks (including, but not limited to, denial of service attacks on websites) which shut down, disable, slow, impair or otherwise disrupt operations, business processes, technology, connectivity or website or internet access, functionality or performance. Like other funds and business enterprises, the Fund and its service providers have experienced, and will continue to experience, cyber-events on a daily basis. In addition to intentional cyber-events, unintentional cyber-events can occur, such as, for example, the inadvertent release of confidential information. To date, cyber-events have not had a material adverse effect on the Fund’s business operations or performance.
Cyber-events can affect, potentially in a material way, Federated Hermes’ relationships with its customers, employees, products, accounts, shareholders and relevant service providers. Any cyber-event could adversely impact the Fund and its shareholders and cause the Fund to incur financial loss and expense, as well as face exposure to regulatory penalties, reputational damage and additional compliance costs associated with corrective measures. A cyber-event may cause the Fund, or its service providers, to lose proprietary information, suffer data corruption, lose operational capacity (such as, for example, the loss of the ability to process transactions, calculate the Fund’s NAV, or allow shareholders to transact business or other disruptions to operations), and/or fail to comply with applicable privacy and other laws. Among other potentially harmful effects, cyber-events also may result in theft, unauthorized monitoring and failures in the physical infrastructure or operating systems that support the Fund and its service providers. In addition, cyber-events affecting issuers in which the Fund invests could cause the Fund’s investments to lose value.
The Fund’s Adviser and its relevant affiliates have established risk management systems reasonably designed to seek to reduce the risks associated with cyber-events. The Fund’s Adviser employs various measures aimed at mitigating cybersecurity risk, including, among others, use of firewalls, system segmentation, system monitoring, virus scanning, periodic penetration testing, employee phishing training and an employee cybersecurity awareness campaign. Among other vendor management efforts, Federated Hermes also conducts due diligence on key service providers (or vendors) relating to cybersecurity. Federated Hermes has established a committee to oversee Federated Hermes’ information security and data governance efforts, and updates on cyber-events and risks are reviewed with relevant committees, as well as Federated Hermes’ and the Fund’s Boards of Directors or Trustees (or a committee thereof), on a periodic (generally quarterly) basis (and more frequently when circumstances warrant) as part of risk management oversight responsibilities. However, there is no guarantee that the efforts of Federated Hermes, the Fund’s Adviser or its affiliates, or other service providers, will succeed, either entirely or partially as there are limits on Federated Hermes’ and the Fund’s ability to prevent, detect or mitigate cyber-events. Among other reasons, the cybersecurity landscape is constantly evolving, the nature of malicious cyber-events is becoming increasingly sophisticated and the Fund’s Adviser, and its relevant affiliates, cannot control the cyber systems and cybersecurity systems of issuers or third-party service providers.
Investment Objective (and Policies) and Investment Limitations
Fundamental Investment Objective and Policies
The Fund’s investment objective is to provide dividend income which is exempt from federal regular income tax.
The Fund attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its net assets in a diversified portfolio of municipal securities or by investing its assets so that at least 80% of its income will be tax exempt.
The Fund will invest its assets so that at least 80% of the income that it distributes will be exempt from federal regular income tax.
The investment objective and policies may not be changed by the Fund’s Board without shareholder approval.
Investment Limitations
Diversification of Investments
With respect to securities comprising 75% of the value of its total assets, the Fund will not purchase the securities of any one issuer (other than cash, cash items, securities issued or guaranteed by the government of the United States or its agencies or instrumentalities and repurchase agreements collateralized by such U.S. government securities, and securities of other investment companies) if, as a result, more than 5% of the value of its total assets would be invested in the securities of that issuer, or it would own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of that issuer.
Borrowing Money
The Fund will not borrow money except as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes and then: (a) only in amounts not in excess of 5% of the value of its total assets; or (b) in an amount up to one-third of the value of its total assets, including the amount borrowed. (This borrowing provision is not for investment leverage but solely to facilitate management of the portfolio by enabling the Fund to meet redemption requests where the liquidation of portfolio securities is deemed to be
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inconvenient or disadvantageous.) While any such borrowings are outstanding, no net purchases of investment securities will be made by the Fund. If, due to market fluctuations or other reasons, the value of the Fund’s assets falls below 300% of its borrowings, the Fund will reduce its borrowings within three business days. To do this, the Fund may have to sell a portion of its investments at a time when it may be disadvantageous to do so.
Pledging Assets
The Fund will not mortgage, pledge, or hypothecate its assets except to secure permitted borrowings. In those cases, it may mortgage, pledge or hypothecate assets having a market value not exceeding 10% of the value of the total assets at the time of the borrowing.
Underwriting
The Fund will not underwrite any issue of securities, except as it may be deemed to be an underwriter under the Securities Act of 1933 in connection with the sale of securities in accordance with its investment objective, policies and limitations.
Investing in Real Estate
The Fund will not buy or sell real estate, although it may invest in municipal securities secured by real estate or interests in real estate.
Investing in Commodities
The Fund will not buy or sell commodities or commodity contracts.
Lending
The Fund will not make loans, but may acquire publicly or non-publicly issued municipal securities as permitted by its investment objective, policies and limitations.
Selling Short and Buying on Margin
The Fund will not sell any securities short or purchase any securities on margin but may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary for clearance of purchases and sales of securities.
Issuing Senior Securities
The Fund will not issue senior securities, except as permitted by its investment objective and policies.
Concentration
The Fund will not make investments that will result in the concentration of its investments in the securities of issuers primarily engaged in the same industry. Government securities, municipal securities and bank instruments will not be deemed to constitute an industry.
The above limitations cannot be changed unless authorized by the Board and by the “vote of a majority of the Fund’s outstanding voting securities,” as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act). The following limitations, however, may be changed by the Board without shareholder approval. Shareholders will be notified before any material change in these limitations becomes effective.
Investing in Illiquid Securities
The Fund will not invest more than 15% of the value of its net assets in illiquid securities, including repurchase agreements that the Fund cannot dispose of within seven days, and certain restricted securities.
Additional Information
As a matter of non-fundamental investment policy regarding certain of the Fund’s investment restrictions, please note the following additional information.
In applying the concentration restriction, the Fund will adhere to the requirements of the 1940 Act which limits investments in a particular industry or group of industries to no more than 25% of the value of the Fund’s total assets. Further, in applying the concentration restriction: (a) utility companies will be divided according to their services, for example, gas, gas transmission, electric and telephone will each be considered a separate industry; (b) financial service companies will be classified according to the end users of their services, for example, automobile finance, bank finance and diversified finance will each be considered a separate industry; and (c) asset-backed securities will be classified according to the underlying assets securing such securities.
For purposes of the above limitations, the Fund considers certificates of deposit and demand and time deposits issued by a U.S. branch of a domestic bank or savings association having capital, surplus and undivided profits in excess of $100,000,000 at the time of investment to be “cash items” and “bank instruments.” Except with respect to borrowing money, if a percentage limitation is adhered to at the time of investment, a later increase or decrease in percentage resulting from any change in value or net assets will not result in a violation of such limitation.
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In applying the borrowing limitation, in accordance with Section 18(f)(1) of the 1940 Act and current SEC rules and guidance, the Fund is permitted to borrow money, directly or indirectly, provided that immediately after any such borrowing, the Fund has asset coverage of at least 300% for all of the Fund’s borrowings, and provided further that in the event that such asset coverage shall at any time fall below 300% the Fund shall, within three business days, reduce the amount of its borrowings to an extent that the asset coverage of such borrowings shall be at least 300%.
For purposes of the illiquid investments policy, illiquid investments are those 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 taking into account relevant market, trading and investment-specific considerations, and considering market depth.
What Do Shares Cost?
Determining Market Value of Securities
A Share’s net asset value (NAV) is determined as of the end of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) each day the NYSE is open. The Fund calculates the NAV of each class by valuing the assets allocated to the Share’s class, subtracting the liabilities allocated to each class and dividing the balance by the number of Shares of the class outstanding. The NAV for each class of Shares may differ due to the level of expenses allocated to each class as well as a result of the variance between the amount of accrued investment income and capital gains or losses allocated to each class and the amount actually distributed to shareholders of each class. The NAV is calculated to the nearest whole cent per Share.
In calculating its NAV, the Fund generally values investments as follows:
■ Equity securities listed on a U.S. securities exchange or traded through the U.S. national market system are valued at their last reported sale price or official closing price in their principal exchange or market. If a price is not readily available, such equity securities are valued based upon the mean of closing bid and asked quotations from one or more dealers.
■ Other equity securities traded primarily in the United States are valued based upon the mean of closing bid-and-asked quotations from one or more dealers.
■ Equity securities traded primarily through securities exchanges and regulated market systems outside the United States are valued at their last reported sale price or official closing price in their principal exchange or market. These prices may be adjusted for significant events occurring after the closing of such exchanges or market systems as described below. If a price is not readily available, such equity securities are valued based upon the mean of closing bid and asked quotations from one or more dealers.
■ Fixed-income securities are fair valued using price evaluations provided by a pricing service approved by the Board. The methods used by pricing services to determine such price evaluations are described below. If a price evaluation from a pricing service is not readily available, such fixed-income securities are fair valued based upon price evaluations from one or more dealers.
■ Futures contracts listed on exchanges are valued at their reported settlement price. Option contracts listed on exchanges are valued based upon the mean of closing bid and asked quotations reported by the exchange or from one or more futures commission merchants.
■ OTC derivative contracts are fair valued using price evaluations provided by a pricing service approved by the Board. The methods used by pricing services to determine such price evaluations are described below. If a price evaluation from a pricing service is not readily available, such derivative contracts may be fair valued based upon price evaluations from one or more dealers or using a recognized pricing model for the contract.
■ Shares of other mutual funds or non-exchange-traded investment companies are valued based upon their reported NAVs. The prospectuses for these mutual funds explain the circumstances under which they will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.
If any price, quotation, price evaluation or other pricing source is not readily available when the NAV is calculated, if the Fund cannot obtain price evaluations from a pricing service or from more than one dealer for an investment within a reasonable period of time as set forth in the Fund’s valuation policies and procedures, or if information furnished by a pricing service, in the opinion of the Valuation Committee, is deemed not representative of the fair value of such security, the Fund will use the fair value of the investment determined in accordance with the procedures described below. There can be no assurance that the Fund could purchase or sell an investment at the price used to calculate the Fund’s NAV. The Fund will not use a pricing service or dealer who is an affiliated person of the Adviser to value investments.
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Noninvestment assets and liabilities are valued in accordance with U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The NAV calculation includes expenses, dividend income, interest income, other income and realized and unrealized investment gains and losses through the date of the calculation. Changes in holdings of investments and in the number of outstanding Shares are included in the calculation not later than the first business day following such change. Any assets or liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are converted into U.S. dollars using an exchange rate obtained from one or more currency dealers.
The Fund follows procedures that are common in the mutual fund industry regarding errors made in the calculation of its NAV. This means that, generally, the Fund will not correct errors of less than one cent per Share or errors that did not result in net dilution to the Fund.
Fair Valuation and Significant Events Procedures
The Board has ultimate responsibility for determining the fair value of investments for which market quotations are not readily available. The Board has appointed a Valuation Committee comprised of officers of the Fund, the Adviser and certain of the Adviser’s affiliated companies to assist in determining fair value and in overseeing the calculation of the NAV. The Board has also authorized the use of pricing services recommended by the Valuation Committee to provide price evaluations of the current fair value of certain investments for purposes of calculating the NAV.
Pricing Service Valuations. Based on the recommendations of the Valuation Committee, the Board has authorized the Fund, subject to Board oversight, to use pricing services that provide daily fair value evaluations of the current value of certain investments, primarily fixed-income securities and OTC derivatives contracts. Different pricing services may provide different price evaluations for the same security because of differences in their methods of evaluating market values. Factors considered by pricing services in evaluating an investment include the yields or prices of investments of comparable quality, coupon, maturity, call rights and other potential prepayments, terms and type, reported transactions, indications as to values from dealers and general market conditions. A pricing service may find it more difficult to apply these and other factors to relatively illiquid or volatile investments, which may result in less frequent or more significant changes in the price evaluations of these investments. If a pricing service determines that it does not have sufficient information to use its standard methodology, it may evaluate an investment based on the present value of what investors can reasonably expect to receive from the issuer’s operations or liquidation.
Special valuation considerations may apply with respect to the Fund’s “odd-lot” positions, if any, as the Fund may receive lower prices when it sells such positions than it would receive for sales of institutional round lot positions. Typically, these securities are valued assuming orderly transactions of institutional round lot sizes, but the Fund may hold or, from time to time, transact in such securities in smaller, odd lot sizes.
The Valuation Committee engages in oversight activities with respect to the Fund’s pricing services, which includes, among other things, monitoring significant or unusual price fluctuations above predetermined tolerance levels from the prior day, back-testing of pricing services’ prices against actual sale transactions, conducting periodic due diligence meetings and reviews, and periodically reviewing the inputs, assumptions and methodologies used by these pricing services. If information furnished by a pricing service is not readily available or, in the opinion of the Valuation Committee, is deemed not representative of the fair value of such security, the security will be fair valued by the Valuation Committee in accordance with procedures established by the Trustees as discussed below in “Fair Valuation Procedures.”
Some pricing services provide a single price evaluation reflecting the bid-side of the market for an investment (a “bid” evaluation). Other pricing services offer both bid evaluations and price evaluations indicative of a price between the prices bid and asked for the investment (a “mid” evaluation). The Fund normally uses bid evaluations for any U.S. Treasury and Agency securities, mortgage-backed securities and municipal securities. The Fund normally uses mid evaluations for any other types of fixed-income securities and any OTC derivative contracts.
Fair Valuation Procedures. The Board has established procedures for determining the fair value of investments for which price evaluations from pricing services or dealers and market quotations are not readily available. The procedures define an investment’s “fair value” as the price that the Fund might reasonably expect to receive upon its current sale. The procedures assume that any sale would be made to a willing buyer in the ordinary course of trading. The procedures require consideration of factors that vary based on the type of investment and the information available. Factors that may be considered in determining an investment’s fair value include: (1) the last reported price at which the investment was traded; (2) information provided by dealers or investment analysts regarding the investment or the issuer; (3) changes in financial conditions and business prospects disclosed in the issuer’s financial statements and other reports; (4) publicly announced transactions (such as tender offers and mergers) involving the issuer; (5) comparisons to other investments or to financial indices that are correlated to the investment; (6) with respect to fixed-income investments, changes in market yields and spreads; (7) with respect to investments that have been suspended from trading, the circumstances leading to the suspension; and (8) other factors that might affect the investment’s value.
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The Valuation Committee is responsible for the day-to-day implementation of these procedures subject to Board oversight. The Valuation Committee may also authorize the use of a financial valuation model to determine the fair value of a specific type of investment. The Board periodically reviews and approves the fair valuations made by the Valuation Committee and any changes made to the procedures.
Using fair value to price investments may result in a value that is different from an investment’s most recent closing price and from the prices used by other mutual funds to calculate their NAVs. The application of the fair value procedures to an investment represent a good faith determination of an investment’s fair value. There can be no assurance that the Fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it sold the investment at approximately the time at which the Fund determines its NAV per share, and the actual value could be materially different.
Significant Events. The Board has adopted procedures requiring an investment to be priced at its fair value whenever the Adviser determines that a significant event affecting the value of the investment has occurred between the time as of which the price of the investment would otherwise be determined and the time as of which the NAV is computed. An event is considered significant if there is both an affirmative expectation that the investment’s value will change in response to the event and a reasonable basis for quantifying the resulting change in value. Examples of significant events that may occur after the close of the principal market on which a security is traded, or the time of a price evaluation provided by a pricing service or a dealer, include:
■ With respect to securities traded principally in foreign markets, significant trends in U.S. equity markets or in the trading of foreign securities index futures contracts;
■ Political or other developments affecting the economy or markets in which an issuer conducts its operations or its securities are traded; and
■ Announcements concerning matters such as acquisitions, recapitalizations or litigation developments, or a natural disaster affecting the issuer’s operations or regulatory changes or market developments affecting the issuer’s industry.
The Board has adopted procedures whereby the Valuation Committee uses a pricing service to provide factors to update the fair value of equity securities traded principally in foreign markets from the time of the close of their respective foreign stock exchanges to the pricing time of the Fund. The pricing service uses models that correlate changes between the closing and opening price of equity securities traded primarily in non-U.S. markets to changes in prices in U.S.-traded securities and derivative contracts. The pricing service seeks to employ the model that provides the most significant correlation based on a periodic review of the results. The model uses the correlation to adjust the reported closing price of a foreign equity security based on information available up to the close of the NYSE.
For other significant events, the Fund may seek to obtain more current quotations or price evaluations from alternative pricing sources. If a reliable alternative pricing source is not available, the fair value of the investment is determined using the methods discussed above in “Fair Valuation Procedures.” The Board has ultimate responsibility for any fair valuations made in response to a significant event.
How is the Fund Sold?
Under the Distributor’s Contract with the Fund, the Distributor (“Federated Securities Corp.”) offers Shares on a continuous, best-efforts basis.
Rule 12b-1 Plan
As a compensation-type plan, the Rule 12b-1 Plan is designed to pay the Distributor for activities principally intended to result in the sale of Shares such as advertising and marketing of Shares (including printing and distributing prospectuses and sales literature to prospective shareholders and financial intermediaries) and providing incentives to financial intermediaries to sell Shares. The Plan is also designed to cover the cost of administrative services performed in conjunction with the sale of Shares, including, but not limited to, shareholder services, recordkeeping services and educational services, as well as the costs of implementing and operating the Plan. The Rule 12b-1 Plan allows the Distributor to contract with financial intermediaries to perform activities covered by the Plan. The Rule 12b-1 Plan is expected to benefit the Fund in a number of ways. For example, it is anticipated that the Plan will help the Fund attract and retain assets, thus providing cash for orderly portfolio management and Share redemptions and possibly helping to stabilize or reduce other operating expenses.
In addition, the Plan is integral to the multiple class structure of the Fund, which promotes the sale of Shares by providing a range of options to investors. The Fund’s service providers that receive asset-based fees also benefit from stable or increasing Fund assets.
The Fund may compensate the Distributor more or less than its actual marketing expenses. In no event will the Fund pay for any expenses of the Distributor that exceed the maximum Rule 12b-1 Plan fee.
16

The maximum Rule 12b-1 Plan fee that can be paid in any one year may not be sufficient to cover the marketing-related expenses the Distributor has incurred. Therefore, it may take the Distributor a number of years to recoup these expenses.
In addition, in connection with the sale of Class A2 Shares, Federated Hermes and its subsidiaries make advance commission payments to financial intermediaries and in return may receive Rule 12b-1 fees and contingent deferred sales loads from the Class A2 Shares. Federated Hermes and its subsidiaries may benefit or sustain losses from such arrangements.
Additional Payments To Financial Intermediaries
The Distributor may pay out of its own resources amounts to certain financial intermediaries, including broker-dealers, banks, registered investment advisers, independent financial planners and retirement plan administrators. In some cases, such payments may be made by, or funded from the resources of, companies affiliated with the Distributor (including the Adviser). While Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (FINRA) regulations limit the sales charges that you may bear, there are no limits with regard to the amounts that the Distributor may pay out of its own resources. In addition to the payments which are generally described herein and in the Prospectus, the financial intermediary also may receive payments under the Rule 12b-1 Plan and/or Service Fees. In connection with these payments, the financial intermediary may elevate the prominence or profile of the Fund and/or other Federated Hermes funds within the financial intermediary’s organization by, for example, placement on a list of preferred or recommended funds and/or granting the Distributor preferential or enhanced opportunities to promote the funds in various ways within the financial intermediary’s organization. The same financial intermediaries may receive payments under more than one or all categories. These payments assist in the Distributor’s efforts to support the sale of Shares. These payments are negotiated and may be based on such factors as: the number or value of Shares that the financial intermediary sells or may sell; the value of client assets invested; the level and types of services or support furnished by the financial intermediary; or the Fund’s and/or other Federated Hermes funds’ relationship with the financial intermediary. Not all financial intermediaries receive such payments and the amount of compensation may vary by intermediary. You should ask your financial intermediary for information about any payments it receives from the Distributor or the Federated Hermes funds and any services it provides, as well as the fees and/or commissions it charges.
The categories of additional payments are described below.
Supplemental Payments
The Distributor may make supplemental payments to certain financial intermediaries that are holders or dealers of record for accounts in one or more of the Federated Hermes funds. These payments may be based on such factors as: the number or value of Shares the financial intermediary sells or may sell; the value of client assets invested; or the type and nature of services or support furnished by the financial intermediary.
Processing Support Payments
The Distributor may make payments to certain financial intermediaries that sell Federated Hermes fund shares to help offset their costs associated with client account maintenance support, statement processing and transaction processing. The types of payments that the Distributor may make under this category include: payment of ticket charges on a per-transaction basis; payment of networking fees; and payment for ancillary services such as setting up funds on the financial intermediary’s mutual fund trading system.
Retirement Plan Program Servicing Payments
The Distributor may make payments to certain financial intermediaries who sell Federated Hermes fund shares through retirement plan programs. A financial intermediary may perform retirement plan program services itself or may arrange with a third party to perform retirement plan program services. In addition to participant recordkeeping, reporting or transaction processing, retirement plan program services may include: services rendered to a plan in connection with fund/investment selection and monitoring; employee enrollment and education; plan balance rollover or separation; or other similar services.
Marketing Support Payments
From time to time, the Distributor, at its expense, may provide additional compensation to financial intermediaries that sell or arrange for the sale of Shares. Such compensation, provided by the Distributor, may include financial assistance to financial intermediaries that enable the Distributor to participate in or present at conferences or seminars, sales or training programs for invited registered representatives and other employees, client entertainment, client and investor events and other financial intermediary-sponsored events. The Distributor may also provide additional compensation to financial intermediaries for services rendered in connection with technology and programming set-up, platform development and maintenance or similar services and for the provision of sales-related data to the Adviser and/or its affiliates.
17

The Distributor also may hold or sponsor, at its expense, sales events, conferences and programs for employees or associated persons of financial intermediaries and may pay the travel and lodging expenses of attendees. The Distributor also may provide, at its expense, meals and entertainment in conjunction with meetings with financial intermediaries. Other compensation may be offered to the extent not prohibited by applicable federal or state law or regulations, or the rules of any self-regulatory agency, such as FINRA. These payments may vary depending on the nature of the event or the relationship.
For the year ended December 31, 2020, the following is a list of FINRA member firms that received additional payments from the Distributor or an affiliate. Additional payments may also be made to certain other financial intermediaries that are not FINRA member firms that sell Federated Hermes fund shares or provide services to the Federated Hermes funds and shareholders. These firms are not included in this list. Any additions, modifications or deletions to the member firms identified in this list that have occurred since December 31, 2020, are not reflected. You should ask your financial intermediary for information about any additional payments it receives from the Distributor.
 

18

 
 

 
 

 

ADP Broker-Dealer, Inc.
Aegis Financial
Altair Management Partners, Inc.
American Enterprise Investment Services Inc.
American Portfolios Advisors Inc.
Apex Clearing Corporation
Associated Investment Services, Inc.
Avantax Advisory Services Inc.
BB&T Securities, LLC
BBVA Securities Inc.
BMO Capital Markets Corp.
BMO Harris Financial Advisors, Inc.
BNY Mellon Capital Markets, LLC
BofA Securities, Inc.
Broadridge Business Process Outsourcing, LLC
Brown Brothers Harriman & Company
Brown Investment Advisory & Trust Company
Cambridge Financial Group, Inc.
Cetera Advisor Networks LLC
Cetera Advisors LLC
Cetera Financial Specialists LLC
Cetera Investment Advisers LLC
Cetera Investment Services LLC
Charles Schwab & Company, Inc.
CIBC World Markets Corp.
Citigroup Global Markets Inc.
Comerica Securities, Inc.
Commonwealth Financial Network
COR Clearing LLC
Davenport & Company LLC
David Lerner Associates, Inc.
Deutsche Bank Securities Inc.
E*Trade Capital Inc.
Edward D. Jones & Co., LP
Equitable Advisors LLC
FBL Marketing Services, LLC
Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. (FIIOC)
Fiducia Group
Fifth Third Securities, Inc.
First Financial Equity Corporation
First Horizon Advisors Inc.
FIS Brokerage & Securities Services LLC

 

FSC Securities Corporation
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC
Great American Investors, Inc.
GWFS Equities, Inc.
Hancock Whitney Investment Services Inc.
Hefren-Tillotson, Inc.
HighTower Securities, LLC
Hilltop Securities, Inc.
The Huntington Investment Company
Huntington Securities, Inc.
Independent Financial Group LLC
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Financial Services LLC
Infinex Investments Inc.
Institutional Cash Distributors, LLC
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC
Janney Montgomery Scott LLC
Jefferies LLC
Kestra Investment Services LLC
Key Investment Services LLC
KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc.
Lincoln Financial Advisors Corporation
Lincoln Investment Planning, LLC
LPL Financial LLC
M&T Securities, Inc.
Materetsky Financial Group
Mercer Global Advisors Inc.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner and Smith Incorporated
MML Investors Services Inc.
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC
Multi-Bank Securities
Muriel Siebert & Co., Inc.
National Financial Services LLC
Nationwide Investment Services Corporation
Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC
NYLIFE Distributors LLC
OneAmerica Securities Inc.
Oppenheimer & Company, Inc.
Paychex Securities Corp
Pensionmark Financial Group LLC
People’s Securities, Inc.
Pershing LLC
Piper Sandler & Co.

Pitcairn Trust Company
PNC Capital Markets, LLC
PNC Investments LLC
Prudential Investment Management Services LLC
Purshe Kaplan Sterling Investments
Raymond James & Associates, Inc.
Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.
RBC Capital Markets, LLC
Robert W Baird & Co. Incorporated
Royal Alliance Associates, Inc.
SagePoint Financial, Inc.
Sammons Financial Network, LLC
Sanford C. Bernstein & Company, LLC
Securities America Advisors Inc.
Security Distributors, LLC
Sentry Advisors, LLC
SG Americas Securities, LLC
State Street Global Markets, LLC
Stephens Inc.
Stifel Nicolaus & Company Incorporated
Summit Financial Group Inc.
StoneX Financial Inc.
SBC Wealth Management
Suntrust Investment Services, Inc.
Suntrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc.

 

 

TD Ameritrade, Inc.
TD Private Client Wealth LLC
Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America
Tradition Securities and Derivatives, Inc.
Transamerica Financial Advisors Inc.
Treasury Brokerage
U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc.
UBS Financial Services Inc.
UBS Securities LLC
UMB Financial Services, Inc.
Valor Financial Securities LLC
The Vanguard Group, Inc.
Vanguard Marketing Corporation
Vining-Sparks IBG, Limited Partnership
Vision Financial Markets, LLC
Voya Financial Advisors, Inc.
Voya Financial Partners, LLC
Voya Retirement Advisors, LLC
WCM Wealth Management LLC
Wells Fargo Clearing Services LLC
Wells Fargo Securities, LLC
WestPark Capital, Inc.
Wintrust Investments LLC
Woodbury Financial Services, Inc.
World Equity Group, Inc.

 

UNDERWRITING COMMISSIONS
The following chart reflects the total front-end sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges paid in connection with the sale of Class A Shares of the Fund and the amount retained by the Distributor for the last three fiscal years ended June 30:
 
2021
2020
2019
 
Total Sales
Charges
Amount
Retained
Total Sales
Charges
Amount
Retained
Total Sales
Charges
Amount
Retained
Class A Shares
$81,284
$0
$12,993
$0
$5,703
$0
Purchases In-Kind
You may contact the Distributor to request a purchase of Shares using securities you own. The Fund reserves the right to determine whether to accept your securities and the minimum market value to accept. The Fund will value your securities in the same manner as it values its assets. An in-kind purchase may be treated as a sale of your securities for federal tax purposes; please consult your tax adviser regarding potential tax liability.
Redemption In-Kind
Although the Fund generally intends to pay Share redemptions in cash, it reserves the right, on its own initiative or in response to a shareholder request, to pay the redemption price in whole or in part by a distribution of the Fund’s portfolio securities.
Because the Fund has elected to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the 1940 Act, the Fund is obligated to pay Share redemptions to any one shareholder in cash only up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the net assets represented by such Share class during any 90-day period.
Any Share redemption payment greater than this amount will also be in cash unless the Fund elects to pay all or a portion of the remainder of the redemption in portfolio securities, valued in the same way as the Fund determines its NAV.
Redemption in-kind is not as liquid as a cash redemption. Shareholders receiving the portfolio securities could have difficulty selling them, may incur related transaction costs and would be subject to risks of fluctuations in the securities’ values prior to sale.
19

Massachusetts Partnership Law
Under certain circumstances, shareholders may be held personally liable as partners under Massachusetts law for obligations of the Trust. To protect its shareholders, the Trust has filed legal documents with Massachusetts that expressly disclaim the liability of its shareholders for acts or obligations of the Trust.
In the unlikely event a shareholder is held personally liable for the Trust’s obligations, the Trust is required by the Declaration of Trust to use its property to protect or compensate the shareholder. On request, the Trust will defend any claim made and pay any judgment against a shareholder for any act or obligation of the Trust. Therefore, financial loss resulting from liability as a shareholder will occur only if the Trust itself cannot meet its obligations to indemnify shareholders and pay judgments against them.
Account and Share Information
Voting Rights
Each Share of the Fund gives the shareholder one vote in Trustee elections and other matters submitted to shareholders for vote.
All Shares of the Fund have equal voting rights, except that in matters affecting only a particular class, only Shares of that class are entitled to vote.
Trustees may be removed by the Board or by shareholders at a special meeting. A special meeting of shareholders will be called by the Board upon the written request of shareholders who own at least 10% of the Trust’s outstanding Shares.
As of August 10, 2021, the following shareholders owned of record, beneficially, or both, 5% or more of outstanding Class A Shares; Edward D. Jones & Co., St. Louis, MO, owned approximately 21,841,490 Shares (42.73%); Wells Fargo, St. Louis, MO, owned approximately 9,936,322 Shares (19.44%); National Financial Services LLC, New York, NY, owned approximately 5,521,783 Shares (10.80%) and Raymond James, St. Petersburg, FL, owned approximately 5,383,349 Shares (10.53%).
As of August 10, 2021, the following shareholders owned of record, beneficially, or both, 5% or more of outstanding Institutional Shares: Charles Schwab & Co. Inc., San Francisco, CA, owned approximately 12,621,934 Shares (21.32%); National Financial Services LLC, Jersey City, NJ, owned approximately 8,688,478 Shares (14.67%); Saxon & Co., Philadelphia, PA, owned approximately 8,260,138 Shares (13.95%); Reliance Trust, Atlanta, GA, owned approximately 7,227,567 Shares (12.20%) and Nabank & Co., Tulsa, OK, owned approximately 3,104,882 Shares (5.24%).
As of August 10, 2021, the following shareholders owned of record, beneficially, or both, 5% or more of outstanding Service Shares: National Financial Services LLC, Jersey City, NJ, owned approximately 579,780 Shares (59.52%) and UBS WM USA, Weehawken, NJ, owned approximately 119,858 Shares (12.30%).
Shareholders owning 25% or more of outstanding Shares may be in control and be able to affect the outcome of certain matters presented for a vote of shareholders.
Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P. is organized in the State of Missouri.
National Financial Services LLC is organized in the State of Delaware and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fidelity Global Brokerage Group, Inc., which is organized in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and is a wholly owned subsidiary of FMR LLC, which is organized in Delaware.
Tax Information
Federal Income Tax
The Fund intends to meet requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) applicable to regulated investment companies. If these requirements are not met, it will not receive special tax treatment and will be subject to federal corporate income tax.
The Fund is entitled to a loss carryforward, which may reduce the taxable income or gain that the Fund would realize, and to which the shareholder would be subject, in the future.
Tax Basis Information
The Fund’s Transfer Agent is required to provide you with the cost basis information on the sale of any of your Shares in the Fund, subject to certain exceptions.
20

Who Manages and Provides Services to the Fund?
Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is responsible for managing the Fund’s business affairs and for exercising all the Fund’s powers except those reserved for the shareholders. The following tables give information about each Trustee and the senior officers of the Fund. Where required, the tables separately list Trustees who are “interested persons” of the Fund (i.e., “Interested” Trustees) and those who are not (i.e., “Independent” Trustees). Unless otherwise noted, the address of each person listed is 1001 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222-3779. The address of all Independent Trustees listed is 4000 Ericsson Drive, Warrendale, PA 15086-7561; Attention: Mutual Fund Board. As of December 31, 2020, the Fund comprised one portfolio, and the Federated Hermes Complex consisted of 41 investment companies (comprising 163 portfolios). Unless otherwise noted, each Officer is elected annually. Unless otherwise noted, each Trustee oversees all portfolios in the Federated Hermes Complex and serves for an indefinite term.
As of August 10, 2021, the Fund’s Board and Officers as a group owned less than 1% of each class of the Fund’s outstanding Shares.
qualifications of Independent Trustees
Individual Trustee qualifications are noted in the “Independent Trustees Background and Compensation” chart. In addition, the following characteristics are among those that were considered for each existing Trustee and will be considered for any Nominee Trustee.
■ Outstanding skills in disciplines deemed by the Independent Trustees to be particularly relevant to the role of Independent Trustee and to the Federated Hermes funds, including legal, accounting, business management, the financial industry generally and the investment industry particularly.
■ Desire and availability to serve for a substantial period of time, taking into account the Board’s current mandatory retirement age of 75 years.
■ No conflicts which would interfere with qualifying as independent.
■ Appropriate interpersonal skills to work effectively with other Independent Trustees.
■ Understanding and appreciation of the important role occupied by Independent Trustees in the regulatory structure governing regulated investment companies.
■ Diversity of background.
interested Trustees Background and Compensation
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Fund
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
Aggregate
Compensation
From Fund
(past fiscal year)
Total Compensation
From Fund and
Federated Hermes Complex
(past calendar year)
J. Christopher Donahue*
Birth Date: April 11, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: October 1999
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain
of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Complex; Director or Trustee of the
Funds in the Federated Hermes Complex; President, Chief Executive
Officer and Director, Federated Hermes, Inc.; Chairman and Trustee,
Federated Investment Management Company; Trustee, Federated
Investment Counseling; Chairman and Director, Federated Global
Investment Management Corp.; Chairman and Trustee, Federated Equity
Management Company of Pennsylvania; Trustee, Federated Shareholder
Services Company; Director, Federated Services Company.
Previous Positions: President, Federated Investment Counseling; President
and Chief Executive Officer, Federated Investment Management Company,
Federated Global Investment Management Corp. and Passport
Research, Ltd.; Chairman, Passport Research, Ltd.
$0
$0
21

Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Fund
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
Aggregate
Compensation
From Fund
(past fiscal year)
Total Compensation
From Fund and
Federated Hermes Complex
(past calendar year)
Thomas R. Donahue*
Birth Date: October 20, 1958
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: May 2016
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of certain funds in the
Federated Hermes Complex; Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer, Vice
President and Assistant Secretary, Federated Hermes, Inc.; Chairman and
Trustee, Federated Administrative Services; Chairman and Director,
Federated Administrative Services, Inc.; Trustee and Treasurer, Federated
Advisory Services Company; Director or Trustee and Treasurer, Federated
Equity Management Company of Pennsylvania, Federated Global
Investment Management Corp., Federated Investment Counseling, and
Federated Investment Management Company; Director, MDTA LLC;
Director, Executive Vice President and Assistant Secretary, Federated
Securities Corp.; Director or Trustee and Chairman, Federated Services
Company and Federated Shareholder Services Company; and Director and
President, FII Holdings, Inc.
Previous Positions: Director, Federated Hermes, Inc.; Assistant Secretary,
Federated Investment Management Company, Federated Global
Investment Management Company and Passport Research, LTD; Treasurer,
Passport Research, LTD; Executive Vice President, Federated Securities
Corp.; and Treasurer, FII Holdings, Inc.
$0
$0
*
Family relationships and reasons for “interested” status: J. Christopher Donahue and Thomas R. Donahue are brothers. Both are “interested” due to their beneficial ownership of shares of Federated Hermes, Inc. and the positions they hold with Federated Hermes, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
Independent Trustees Background, Qualifications and Compensation
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Fund
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) and Other Directorships Held for
Past Five Years, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
Aggregate
Compensation
From Fund
(past fiscal year)
Total Compensation
From Fund and
Federated Hermes Complex
(past calendar year)
John T. Collins
Birth Date: January 24, 1947
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: September 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee and Chair of the Board of
Directors or Trustees, of the Federated Hermes Complex; formerly,
Chairman and CEO, The Collins Group, Inc. (a private equity firm) (Retired).
Other Directorships Held: Chairman of the Board of Directors, Director,
KLX Energy Services Holdings, Inc. (oilfield services); former Director of KLX
Corp (aerospace).
Qualifications: Mr. Collins has served in several business and financial
management roles and directorship positions throughout his career.
Mr. Collins previously served as Chairman and CEO of The Collins Group,
Inc. (a private equity firm) and as a Director of KLX Corp. Mr. Collins serves
as Chairman Emeriti, Bentley University. Mr. Collins previously served as
Director and Audit Committee Member, Bank of America Corp.; Director,
FleetBoston Financial Corp.; and Director, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical
Center (Harvard University Affiliate Hospital).
$1,699.85
$286,000
G. Thomas Hough
Birth Date: February 28, 1955
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: August 2015
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee, Chair of the Audit Committee
of the Federated Hermes Complex; formerly, Vice Chair, Ernst & Young LLP
(public accounting firm) (Retired).
Other Directorships Held: Director, Chair of the Audit Committee,
Equifax, Inc.; Director, Member of the Audit Committee, Haverty Furniture
Companies, Inc.; formerly, Director, Member of Governance and
Compensation Committees, Publix Super Markets, Inc.
Qualifications: Mr. Hough has served in accounting, business management
and directorship positions throughout his career. Mr. Hough most recently
held the position of Americas Vice Chair of Assurance with Ernst &
Young LLP (public accounting firm). Mr. Hough serves on the President’s
Cabinet and Business School Board of Visitors for the University of
Alabama. Mr. Hough previously served on the Business School Board of
Visitors for Wake Forest University, and he previously served as an
Executive Committee member of the United States Golf Association.
$1,731.49
$321,000
22

Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Fund
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) and Other Directorships Held for
Past Five Years, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
Aggregate
Compensation
From Fund
(past fiscal year)
Total Compensation
From Fund and
Federated Hermes Complex
(past calendar year)
Maureen Lally-Green
Birth Date: July 5, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: August 2009
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes
Complex; Adjunct Professor Emerita of Law, Duquesne University School of
Law; formerly, Dean of the Duquesne University School of Law and
Professor of Law and Interim Dean of the Duquesne University School of
Law; formerly, Associate General Secretary and Director, Office of Church
Relations, Diocese of Pittsburgh.
Other Directorships Held: Director, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly
known as CONSOL Energy Inc.).
Qualifications: Judge Lally-Green has served in various legal and business
roles and directorship positions throughout her career. Judge Lally-Green
previously held the position of Dean of the School of Law of Duquesne
University (as well as Interim Dean). Judge Lally-Green previously served as
a member of the Superior Court of Pennsylvania and as a Professor of Law,
Duquesne University School of Law. Judge Lally-Green was appointed by
the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania to serve on the Supreme Court’s Board
of Continuing Judicial Education and the Supreme Court’s Appellate Court
Procedural Rules Committee. Judge Lally-Green also currently holds the
positions on not for profit or for profit boards of directors as follows:
Director and Chair, UPMC Mercy Hospital; Regent, Saint Vincent Seminary;
Member, Pennsylvania State Board of Education (public); Director, Catholic
Charities, Pittsburgh; and Director, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly
known as CONSOL Energy Inc.). Judge Lally-Green has held the positions
of: Director, Auberle; Director, Epilepsy Foundation of Western and Central
Pennsylvania; Director, Ireland Institute of Pittsburgh; Director, Saint
Thomas More Society; Director and Chair, Catholic High Schools of the
Diocese of Pittsburgh, Inc.; Director, Pennsylvania Bar Institute; Director,
Saint Vincent College; Director and Chair, North Catholic High School, Inc.;
and Director and Vice Chair, Our Campaign for the Church Alive!, Inc.
$1,549.04
$286,000
Thomas M. O’Neill
Birth Date: June 14, 1951
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: August 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes
Complex; Sole Proprietor, Navigator Management Company (investment
and strategic consulting).
Other Directorships Held: None.
Qualifications: Mr. O’Neill has served in several business, mutual fund and
financial management roles and directorship positions throughout his
career. Mr. O’Neill serves as Director, Medicines for Humanity and Director,
The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples, Florida. Mr. O’Neill previously
served as Chief Executive Officer and President, Managing Director and
Chief Investment Officer, Fleet Investment Advisors; President and Chief
Executive Officer, Aeltus Investment Management, Inc.; General Partner,
Hellman, Jordan Management Co., Boston, MA; Chief Investment Officer,
The Putnam Companies, Boston, MA; Credit Analyst and Lending Officer,
Fleet Bank; Director and Consultant, EZE Castle Software (investment order
management software); and Director, Midway Pacific (lumber).
$1,549.04
$286,000
Madelyn A. Reilly
Birth Date: February 2, 1956
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: November 2020
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes
Complex; Senior Vice President for Legal Affairs, General Counsel and
Secretary of the Board of Trustees, Duquesne University.
Other Directorships Held: None.
Qualifications: Ms. Reilly has served in various business and legal
management roles throughout her career. Ms. Reilly previously served as
Director of Risk Management and Associate General Counsel, Duquesne
University. Prior to her work at Duquesne University, Ms. Reilly served as
Assistant General Counsel of Compliance and Enterprise Risk as well as
Senior Counsel of Environment, Health and Safety, PPG Industries.
$995.59
$49,668.48
23

Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Fund
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) and Other Directorships Held for
Past Five Years, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
Aggregate
Compensation
From Fund
(past fiscal year)
Total Compensation
From Fund and
Federated Hermes Complex
(past calendar year)
P. Jerome Richey
Birth Date: February 23, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: September 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes
Complex; Management Consultant; Retired; formerly, Senior Vice
Chancellor and Chief Legal Officer, University of Pittsburgh and Executive
Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, CONSOL Energy Inc. (split into two
separate publicly traded companies known as CONSOL Energy Inc. and
CNX Resources Corp.).
Other Directorships Held: None.
Qualifications: Mr. Richey has served in several business and legal
management roles and directorship positions throughout his career.
Mr. Richey most recently held the positions of Senior Vice Chancellor and
Chief Legal Officer, University of Pittsburgh. Mr. Richey previously served as
Chairman of the Board, Epilepsy Foundation of Western Pennsylvania and
Chairman of the Board, World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh. Mr. Richey
previously served as Chief Legal Officer and Executive Vice President,
CONSOL Energy Inc. and CNX Gas Company; and Board Member, Ethics
Counsel and Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC (a law firm).
$1,482.30
$260,000
John S. Walsh
Birth Date: November 28, 1957
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: April 1999
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes
Complex; President and Director, Heat Wagon, Inc. (manufacturer of
construction temporary heaters); President and Director, Manufacturers
Products, Inc. (distributor of portable construction heaters); President,
Portable Heater Parts, a division of Manufacturers Products, Inc.
Other Directorships Held: None.
Qualifications: Mr. Walsh has served in several business management roles
and directorship positions throughout his career. Mr. Walsh previously
served as Vice President, Walsh & Kelly, Inc. (paving contractors).
$1,626.42
$345,000
OFFICERS*
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Fund
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) and Previous Position(s)
Lori A. Hensler
Birth Date: January 6, 1967
Treasurer
Officer since: April 2013
Principal Occupations: Principal Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Federated Hermes Complex; Senior Vice President,
Federated Administrative Services; Financial and Operations Principal for Federated Securities Corp.; and Assistant Treasurer,
Federated Investors Trust Company. Ms. Hensler has received the Certified Public Accountant designation.
Previous Positions: Controller of Federated Hermes, Inc.; Senior Vice President and Assistant Treasurer, Federated Investors
Management Company; Treasurer, Federated Investors Trust Company; Assistant Treasurer, Federated Administrative Services,
Federated Administrative Services, Inc., Federated Securities Corp., Edgewood Services, Inc., Federated Advisory Services
Company, Federated Equity Management Company of Pennsylvania, Federated Global Investment Management Corp.,
Federated Investment Counseling, Federated Investment Management Company, Passport Research, Ltd. and Federated MDTA,
LLC; Financial and Operations Principal for Federated Securities Corp., Edgewood Services, Inc. and Southpointe Distribution
Services, Inc.
John B. Fisher
Birth Date: May 16, 1956
PRESIDENT
Officer since: November 2004
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Complex;
Director or Trustee of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Complex; Vice President, Federated Hermes, Inc.; President,
Director/Trustee and CEO, Federated Advisory Services Company, Federated Equity Management Company of Pennsylvania,
Federated Global Investment Management Corp., Federated Investment Counseling, Federated Investment Management
Company; President and CEO of Passport Research, Ltd.; President of some of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Complex and
Director, Federated Investors Trust Company.
Previous Positions: President and Director of the Institutional Sales Division of Federated Securities Corp.; President and
Director of Federated Investment Counseling; Director, Edgewood Securities Corp.; Director, Federated Services Company;
Director, Federated Hermes, Inc.; Chairman and Director, Southpointe Distribution Services, Inc. and President, Technology,
Federated Services Company.
24

Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Fund
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) and Previous Position(s)
Peter J. Germain
Birth Date: September 3, 1959
CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER,
SECRETARY and EXECUTIVE
VICE PRESIDENT
Officer since: January 2005
Principal Occupations: Mr. Germain is Chief Legal Officer, Secretary and Executive Vice President of the Federated Hermes
Complex. He is General Counsel, Chief Legal Officer, Secretary and Executive Vice President, Federated Hermes, Inc.; Trustee
and Senior Vice President, Federated Investors Management Company; Trustee and President, Federated Administrative
Services; Director and President, Federated Administrative Services, Inc.; Director and Vice President, Federated Securities
Corp.; Director and Secretary, Federated Private Asset Management, Inc.; Secretary, Federated Shareholder Services Company;
and Secretary, Retirement Plan Service Company of America. Mr. Germain joined Federated Hermes, Inc. in 1984 and is a
member of the Pennsylvania Bar Association.
Previous Positions: Deputy General Counsel, Special Counsel, Managing Director of Mutual Fund Services, Federated Hermes,
Inc.; Senior Vice President, Federated Services Company; and Senior Corporate Counsel, Federated Hermes, Inc.
Stephen Van Meter
Birth Date: June 5, 1975
CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER
AND SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT
Officer since: July 2015
Principal Occupations: Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of the Federated Hermes Complex; Vice President
and Chief Compliance Officer of Federated Hermes, Inc. and Chief Compliance Officer of certain of its subsidiaries.
Mr. Van Meter joined Federated Hermes, Inc. in October 2011. He holds FINRA licenses under Series 3, 7, 24 and 66.
Previous Positions: Mr. Van Meter previously held the position of Compliance Operating Officer, Federated Hermes, Inc. Prior to
joining Federated Hermes, Inc., Mr. Van Meter served at the United States Securities and Exchange Commission in the positions
of Senior Counsel, Office of Chief Counsel, Division of Investment Management and Senior Counsel, Division of Enforcement.
Deborah A. Cunningham
Birth Date: September 15, 1959
Chief Investment Officer
Officer since: August 2011
Principal Occupations: Deborah A. Cunningham was named Chief Investment Officer of Federated Hermes’ money market
products in 2004. She joined Federated Hermes in 1981 and has been a Senior Portfolio Manager since 1997 and an Executive
Vice President of the Fund’s Adviser since 2009. Ms. Cunningham has received the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and
holds an M.S.B.A. in Finance from Robert Morris College.
Mary Jo Ochson
Birth Date: September 12, 1953
Chief Investment Officer
Officer since: May 2004
Principal Occupations: Mary Jo Ochson was named Chief Investment Officer of Federated Hermes’ tax-exempt, fixed-income
products in 2004 and Chief Investment Officer of Federated Hermes’ Tax-Free Money Markets in 2010. She joined Federated
Hermes in 1982 and has been a Senior Portfolio Manager and a Senior Vice President of the Fund’s Adviser since 1996.
Ms. Ochson has received the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and holds an M.B.A. in Finance from the University
of Pittsburgh.
*
Officers do not receive any compensation from the Fund.
In addition, the Fund has appointed an Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Officer.
DIRECTOR/TRUSTEE EMERITUS PROGRAM
The Board has created a position of Director/Trustee Emeritus, whereby an incumbent Director/Trustee who has attained the age of 75 and completed a minimum of five years of service as a director/trustee, may, in the sole discretion of the Committee of Independent Directors/Trustees (“Committee”), be recommended to the full Board of Directors/Trustees of the Fund to serve as Director/Trustee Emeritus.
A Director/Trustee Emeritus that has been approved as such receives an annual fee in an amount equal to a percent of the annual base compensation paid to a Director/Trustee. In the case of a Director/Trustee Emeritus who had previously served at least five years but less than 10 years as a Director/Trustee, the percent will be 10%. In the case of a Director/Trustee Emeritus who had previously served at least 10 years as a Director/Trustee, the percent will be 20%. The Director/Trustee Emeritus will be reimbursed for any expenses incurred in connection with their service, including expenses of travel and lodging incurred in attendance at Board meetings. Director/Trustee Emeritus will continue to receive relevant materials concerning the Funds, will be expected to attend at least one regularly scheduled quarterly meeting of the Board of Directors/Trustees each year and will be available to consult with the Committees or its representatives at reasonable times as requested by the Chairman; however, a Director/Trustee Emeritus does not have any voting rights at Board meetings and is not subject to election by shareholders of the Funds.
The Director/Trustee Emeritus will be permitted to serve in such capacity at the pleasure of the Committee, but the annual fee will cease to be paid at the end of the calendar year during which he or she has attained the age of 80 years, thereafter the position will be honorary.
The following table shows the fees paid to each Director/Trustee Emeritus for the Fund’s most recently ended fiscal year and the portion of that fee paid by the Fund or Trust.1
25

EMERITUS Trustees and Compensation
Director/Trustee Emeritus
Compensation
From Fund
(past fiscal year)
Total
Compensation
Paid to
Director/Trustee
Emeritus1
Peter E. Madden
$115.35
$52,000.00
Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.2
$65.44
$0.00
1
The fees paid to a Director/Trustee are allocated among the funds that were in existence at the time the Director/Trustee elected Emeritus status, based on each fund’s net assets at that time.
2
Charles F. Mansfield, Jr. retired from the Federated Hermes Fund Board of Directors/Trustees on December 31, 2020. Until December 31, 2020, Mr. Mansfield was compensated as a Director/Trustee of the Fund.
BOARD LEADERSHIP STRUCTURE
As required under the terms of certain regulatory settlements, the Chairman of the Board is not an interested person of the Fund and neither the Chairman, nor any firm with which the Chairman is affiliated, has a prior relationship with Federated Hermes or its affiliates or (other than his position as a Trustee) with the Fund.
Committees of the Board
Board
Committee
Committee
Members
Committee Functions
Meetings Held
During Last
Fiscal Year
Executive
J. Christopher Donahue
John T. Collins
John S. Walsh
In between meetings of the full Board, the Executive Committee generally may
exercise all the powers of the full Board in the management and direction of the
business and conduct of the affairs of the Trust in such manner as the Executive
Committee shall deem to be in the best interests of the Trust. However, the
Executive Committee cannot elect or remove Board members, increase or decrease
the number of Trustees, elect or remove any Officer, declare dividends, issue shares
or recommend to shareholders any action requiring shareholder approval.
One
Audit
G. Thomas Hough
Maureen Lally-Green
Thomas M. O’Neill
P. Jerome Richey
The purposes of the Audit Committee are to oversee the accounting and financial
reporting process of the Fund, the Fund’s internal control over financial reporting
and the quality, integrity and independent audit of the Fund’s financial statements.
The Committee also oversees or assists the Board with the oversight of compliance
with legal requirements relating to those matters, approves the engagement and
reviews the qualifications, independence and performance of the Fund’s
independent registered public accounting firm, acts as a liaison between the
independent registered public accounting firm and the Board and reviews the Fund’s
internal audit function.
Seven
Nominating
John T. Collins
G. Thomas Hough
Maureen Lally-Green
Thomas M. O’Neill
Madelyn A. Reilly
P. Jerome Richey
John S. Walsh
The Nominating Committee, whose members consist of all Independent Trustees,
selects and nominates persons for election to the Fund’s Board when vacancies
occur. The Committee will consider candidates recommended by shareholders,
Independent Trustees, officers or employees of any of the Fund’s agents or service
providers and counsel to the Fund. Any shareholder who desires to have an
individual considered for nomination by the Committee must submit a
recommendation in writing to the Secretary of the Fund, at the Fund’s address
appearing on the back cover of this SAI. The recommendation should include the
name and address of both the shareholder and the candidate and detailed
information concerning the candidate’s qualifications and experience. In identifying
and evaluating candidates for consideration, the Committee shall consider such
factors as it deems appropriate. Those factors will ordinarily include: integrity,
intelligence, collegiality, judgment, diversity, skill, business and other experience,
qualification as an “Independent Trustee,” the existence of material relationships
which may create the appearance of a lack of independence, financial or accounting
knowledge and experience and dedication and willingness to devote the time and
attention necessary to fulfill Board responsibilities.
One
26

BOARD’S ROLE IN RISK OVERSIGHT
The Board’s role in overseeing the Fund’s general risks includes receiving performance reports for the Fund and risk management reports from Federated Hermes’ Chief Risk Officer at each regular Board meeting. The Chief Risk Officer is responsible for enterprise risk management at Federated Hermes, which includes risk management committees for investment management and for investor services. The Board also receives regular reports from the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer regarding significant compliance risks.
On behalf of the Board, the Audit Committee plays a key role overseeing the Fund’s financial reporting and valuation risks. The Audit Committee meets regularly with the Fund’s Principal Financial Officer and outside auditors, as well as with Federated Hermes’ Chief Audit Executive to discuss financial reporting and audit issues, including risks relating to financial controls.
Board Ownership Of Shares In The Fund And In The Federated Hermes Family Of Investment Companies As Of December 31, 2020
Interested Board
Member Name
Dollar Range of
Shares Owned in
Federated Hermes Short-
Intermediate Municipal Fund
Aggregate
Dollar Range of
Shares Owned in
Federated Hermes Family of
Investment Companies
J. Christopher Donahue
None
Over $100,000
Thomas R. Donahue
None
Over $100,000
Independent Board
Member Name
 
 
John T. Collins
None
Over $100,000
G. Thomas Hough
None
Over $100,000
Maureen Lally-Green
None
Over $100,000
Thomas M. O’Neill
None
Over $100,000
Madelyn A. Reilly
None
None
P. Jerome Richey
None
Over $100,000
John S. Walsh
None
Over $100,000
Investment Adviser
The Adviser conducts investment research and makes investment decisions for the Fund.
The Adviser is a wholly owned subsidiary of Federated Hermes.
The Adviser shall not be liable to the Fund or any Fund shareholder for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding, or sale of any security or for anything done or omitted by it, except acts or omissions involving willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties imposed upon it by its contract with the Fund.
In December 2017, Federated Investors, Inc., now Federated Hermes, Inc., (“Federated Hermes”) became a signatory to the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI). The PRI is an investor initiative in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative and the United Nations Global Compact. Commitments made as a signatory to the PRI are not legally binding, but are voluntary and aspirational. They include efforts, where consistent with our fiduciary responsibilities, to incorporate environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG) issues into investment analysis and investment decision making, to be active owners and incorporate ESG issues into our ownership policies and practices, to seek appropriate disclosure on ESG issues by the entities in which we invest, to promote acceptance and implementation of the PRI within the investment industry, to enhance our effectiveness in implementing the PRI, and to report on our activities and progress towards implementing the PRI. Being a signatory to the PRI does not obligate Federated Hermes to take, or not take, any particular action as it relates to investment decisions or other activities.
In July 2018, Federated Investors, Inc., now Federated Hermes, Inc., acquired a 60% interest in Hermes Fund Managers Limited (Hermes), which operates as Hermes Investment Management, a pioneer of integrated ESG investing. Hermes’ experience with ESG issues contributes to Federated Hermes’ understanding of material risks and opportunities these issues may present.
EOS at Federated Hermes, which was established as Hermes Equity Ownership Services Limited (EOS) in 2004 as an affiliate of Hermes Investment Management Limited, is our in-house engagement and stewardship team. The 50+ member team conducts long-term, objectives-driven dialogue with board and senior executive level representatives of more than 1,200 unique issuers annually. It seeks to address the most material ESG risks and opportunities through constructive and continuous discussions with the goal of improving long-term results for investors. Engagers’ deep understanding across sectors, themes and regional markets,
27

along with language and cultural expertise, allows EOS to provide insights to companies on the merits of addressing ESG risks and the positive benefits of capturing opportunities. Federated Hermes investment management teams have access to the insights gained from understanding a company’s approach to these long-term strategic matters as an additional input to improve portfolio risk/return characteristics.
Portfolio Manager Information
As a general matter, certain conflicts of interest may arise in connection with a portfolio manager’s management of a fund’s investments, on the one hand, and the investments of other funds/pooled investment vehicles or accounts (collectively, including the Fund, as applicable, “accounts”) for which the portfolio manager is responsible, on the other. For example, it is possible that the various accounts managed could have different investment strategies that, at times, might conflict with one another to the possible detriment of the Fund. Alternatively, to the extent that the same investment opportunities might be desirable for more than one account, possible conflicts could arise in determining how to allocate them. Other potential conflicts can include, for example, conflicts created by specific portfolio manager compensation arrangements (including, for example, the allocation or weighting given to the performance of the Fund or other accounts or activities for which the portfolio manager is responsible in calculating the portfolio manager’s compensation), and conflicts relating to selection of brokers or dealers to execute Fund portfolio trades and/or specific uses of commissions from Fund portfolio trades (for example, research or “soft dollars”). The Adviser has adopted policies and procedures and has structured the portfolio managers’ compensation in a manner reasonably designed to safeguard the Fund from being negatively affected as a result of any such potential conflicts.
The following information about the Fund’s Portfolio Manager is provided as of the end of the Fund’s most recently completed fiscal year unless otherwise indicated.
Jeff Kozemchak, Portfolio Manager
Types of Accounts Managed
by Jeff Kozemchak
Total Number of Additional
Accounts Managed/Total Assets*
Registered Investment Companies
2/$3.2 billion
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
0/$0
Other Accounts
0/$0
*
None of the Accounts has an advisory fee that is based on the performance of the account.
Dollar value range of shares owned in the Fund: $50,001-$100,000.
Jeff Kozemchak is paid a fixed base salary and a variable annual incentive. Base salary is determined within a market competitive, position-specific salary range, based on the portfolio manager’s experience and performance. The annual incentive amount is determined based primarily on Investment Product Performance (IPP) and may also include a discretionary component based on a variety of factors deemed relevant, such as financial measures and performance and may be paid entirely in cash, or in a combination of cash and restricted stock of Federated Hermes, Inc. (“Federated Hermes”). The total combined annual incentive opportunity is intended to be competitive in the market for this portfolio manager role.
IPP is measured on a rolling one, three and five calendar year pre-tax gross total return basis versus the Fund’s designated peer group of comparable accounts and versus the Fund’s blended benchmark (i.e., S&P custom 0-7 year maturities, Non AMT/5% pre-refunded cap with a duration of approximately 2.85 years and the S&P Municipal Bond 1-5 Year Inv. Grade 5% Max Pre-Refunded). Performance periods are adjusted if a portfolio manager has been managing an account for less than five years; accounts with less than one year of performance history under a portfolio manager may be excluded.
As noted above, Mr. Kozemchak is also the portfolio manager for other accounts in addition to the Fund. Such other accounts may have different benchmarks and performance measures. The allocation or weighting given to the performance of the Fund or other accounts for which Mr. Kozemchak is responsible when his compensation is calculated may be equal or can vary.
For purposes of calculating the annual incentive amount, each account managed by the portfolio manager currently is categorized into one of two IPP groups (which may be adjusted periodically). Within each performance measurement period and IPP group, IPP currently is calculated on the basis of an assigned weighting to each account managed by the portfolio manager and included in the IPP groups. At the account level, the weighting assigned to the Fund is lesser than or equal to the weighting assigned to certain other accounts and is greater than or equal to the weighting assigned to certain other accounts used to determine IPP (but can be adjusted periodically). A portion of the bonus tied to the IPP score may be adjusted based on management’s assessment of overall contributions to account performance and any other factors as deemed relevant.
28

Any individual allocations from the discretionary pool may be determined, by executive management on a discretionary basis using various factors, such as, for example, on a product, strategy or asset class basis, and considering overall contributions and any other factors deemed relevant (and may be adjusted periodically).
Mary Jo Ochson, Portfolio Manager
Types of Accounts Managed
by Mary Jo Ochson
Total Number of Additional
Accounts Managed/Total Assets*
Registered Investment Companies
4/$8.3 billion
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
0/$0
Other Accounts
1/$74.1 million
*
None of the Accounts has an advisory fee that is based on the performance of the account.
Dollar value range of shares owned in the Fund: None.
Mary Jo Ochson is paid a fixed base salary and a variable annual incentive. Base salary is determined within a market competitive, position-specific salary range, based on the portfolio manager’s experience and performance. The annual incentive amount is determined based primarily on Investment Product Performance (IPP) and may also include a discretionary component based on a variety of factors deemed relevant, such as financial measures and performance and may be paid entirely in cash, or in a combination of cash and restricted stock of Federated Hermes, Inc. (“Federated Hermes”). The total combined annual incentive opportunity is intended to be competitive in the market for this portfolio manager role.
IPP is measured on a rolling one, three and five calendar year pre-tax gross total return basis versus the Fund’s designated peer group of comparable accounts and versus the Fund’s blended benchmark (i.e., S&P custom 0-7 year maturities, Non AMT/5% pre-refunded cap with a duration of approximately 2.85 years and the S&P Municipal Bond 1-5 Year Inv. Grade 5% Max Pre-Refunded). Performance periods are adjusted if a portfolio manager has been managing an account for less than five years; accounts with less than one year of performance history under a portfolio manager may be excluded.
As noted above, Ms. Ochson is also the portfolio manager for other accounts in addition to the Fund. Such other accounts may have different benchmarks and performance measures. The allocation or weighting given to the performance of the Fund or other accounts for which Ms. Ochson is responsible when her compensation is calculated may be equal or can vary.
For purposes of calculating the annual incentive amount, each account managed by the portfolio manager currently is categorized into one of three IPP groups (which may be adjusted periodically). Within each performance measurement period and IPP group, IPP currently is calculated on the basis of an assigned weighting to each account managed by the portfolio manager and included in the IPP groups. At the account level, the weighting assigned to the Fund is lesser than the weighting assigned other accounts used to determine IPP (but can be adjusted periodically). A portion of the bonus tied to the IPP score may be adjusted based on management’s assessment of overall contributions to account performance and any other factors as deemed relevant.
Any individual allocations from the discretionary pool may be determined, by executive management on a discretionary basis using various factors, such as, for example, on a product, strategy or asset class basis, and considering overall contributions and any other factors deemed relevant (and may be adjusted periodically).
Services Agreement
Federated Advisory Services Company, an affiliate of the Adviser, provides certain support services to the Adviser. The fee for these services is paid by the Adviser and not by the Fund.
Other Related Services
Affiliates of the Adviser may, from time to time, provide certain electronic equipment and software to institutional customers in order to facilitate the purchase of Fund Shares offered by the Distributor.
Code Of Ethics Restrictions On Personal Trading
As required by Rule 17j-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act (as applicable), the Fund, its Adviser and its Distributor have adopted codes of ethics. These codes govern securities trading activities of investment personnel, Fund Trustees and certain other employees. Although they do permit these people to trade in securities, including those that the Fund could buy, as well as Shares of the Fund, they also contain significant safeguards designed to protect the Fund and its shareholders from abuses in this area, such as requirements to obtain prior approval for, and to report, particular transactions.
29

Voting Proxies On Fund Portfolio Securities
The Board has delegated to the Adviser authority to vote proxies on the securities held in the Fund’s portfolio. The Board has also approved the Adviser’s policies and procedures for voting the proxies, which are described below.
Proxy Voting Policies
As an investment adviser with a fiduciary duty to the Fund and its shareholders, the Adviser’s general policy is to cast proxy votes in favor of management proposals and shareholder proposals that the Adviser anticipates will enhance the long-term value of the securities being voted in a manner that is consistent with the investment objectives of the Fund. Generally, this will mean voting for proposals that the Adviser believes will improve the management of a company, increase the rights or preferences of the voted securities, or increase the chance that a premium offer would be made for the company or for the voted securities. This approach to voting proxy proposals will be referred to hereafter as the “General Policy.”
The Adviser generally votes consistently on the same matter when securities of an issuer are held by multiple client portfolios. However, the Adviser may vote differently if a client’s investment objectives differ from those of other clients or if a client explicitly instructs the Adviser to vote differently.
The following examples illustrate how the General Policy may apply to the most common management proposals and shareholder proposals. However, whether the Adviser supports or opposes a proposal will always depend on a thorough understanding of the Fund’s investment objectives and the specific circumstances described in the proxy statement and other available information.
On matters related to the board of directors, generally the Adviser will vote to elect nominees to the board in uncontested elections except in certain circumstances, such as where the director: (1) had not attended at least 75% of the board meetings during the previous year; (2) serves as the company’s chief financial officer, unless the company is headquartered in the UK where this is market practice; (3) has become overboarded (more than five boards for retired executives and more than two boards for CEOs); (4) is the chair of the nominating or governance committee when the roles of chairman of the board and CEO are combined and there is no lead independent director; (5) served on the compensation committee during a period in which compensation appears excessive relative to performance and peers; or (6) served on a board that did not implement a shareholder proposal that the Adviser supported and received more than 50% shareholder support the previous year. In addition, the Adviser will generally vote in favor of; (7) a full slate of directors, where the directors are elected as a group and not individually, unless more than half of the nominees are not independent; (8) shareholder proposals to declassify the board of directors; (9) shareholder proposals to require a majority voting standard in the election of directors; (10) shareholder proposals to separate the roles of chairman of the board and CEO; (11) a proposal to require a company’s audit committee to be comprised entirely of independent directors; and (12) shareholder proposals to eliminate supermajority voting requirements in company bylaws.
On other matters of corporate governance, generally the Adviser will vote in favor of: (1) proposals to grant shareholders the right to call a special meeting if owners of at least 15% of the outstanding stock agree; (2) a proposal to require independent tabulation of proxies and/or confidential voting of shareholders; (3) a proposal to ratify the board’s selection of auditors, unless: (a) compensation for non-audit services exceeded 50% of the total compensation received from the company; or (b) the previous auditor was dismissed because of a disagreement with the company; (4) a proposal to repeal a shareholder rights plan (also known as a “poison pill”) and against the adoption of such a plan, unless the plan is designed to facilitate, rather than prevent, unsolicited offers for the company; (5) shareholder proposals to eliminate supermajority requirements in company bylaws; and (6) shareholder proposals calling for “Proxy Access,” that is, a bylaw change allowing shareholders owning at least 3% of the outstanding common stock for at least three years to nominate candidates for election to the board of directors. The Adviser will generally withhold support from shareholder proposals to grant shareholders the right to act by written consent. Finally, the Adviser will vote on a case-by-case basis for proposals to adopt or amend shareholder rights plans.
On environmental and social matters, generally the Adviser will vote on a case-by-case basis. The Adviser will take into account the literal meaning of the written proposal, the financial materiality of the proposal’s objective, and the practices followed by industry peers. Above all, the Adviser will vote in a manner that would enhance the long-term value of the securities being voted within the framework of the client’s investment objectives.
On matters of capital structure, generally the Adviser will vote against a proposal to authorize or issue shares that are senior in priority or voting rights to the voted securities, and in favor of a proposal to: (1) reduce the amount of shares authorized for issuance (subject to adequate provisions for outstanding convertible securities, options, warrants, rights and other existing obligations to issue shares); and (2) grant authorities to issue shares with and without pre-emptive rights unless the size of the authorities would threaten to unreasonably dilute existing shareholders. The Adviser will decide how to vote on proposals to authorize a stock repurchase or special dividend program on a case-by-case basis.
30

On matters relating to management compensation, generally the Adviser will vote in favor of stock incentive plans (including plans for directors) that align the recipients of stock incentives with the interests of shareholders, without creating undue dilution, and against: (1) the advisory vote on executive compensation plans (“Say On Pay”) when the plan has failed to align executive compensation with corporate performance; (2) the advisory vote on the frequency of the Say On Pay vote when the frequency is other than annual; (3) proposals that would permit the amendment or replacement of outstanding stock incentives having more favorable terms (e.g., lower purchase prices or easier vesting requirements); and (4) executive compensation plans that do not disclose the maximum amounts of compensation that may be awarded or the criteria for determining awards.
On matters relating to corporate transactions, the Adviser will generally vote in favor of mergers, acquisitions and sales of assets if the Adviser’s analysis of the proposed business strategy and the transaction price would have a positive impact on the total return for shareholders.
If a shareholders meeting is contested, that is, shareholders are presented with a set of director candidates nominated by company management and a set of director candidates nominated by a dissident shareholder, the Adviser will study the proposed business strategies of both groups and vote in a way that maximizes expected total return for the Fund.
In addition, the Adviser will not vote any proxy if it determines that the consequences or costs of voting outweigh the potential benefit of voting. For example, if a foreign market requires shareholders voting proxies to retain the voted shares until the meeting date (thereby rendering the shares “illiquid” for some period of time), the Adviser will not vote proxies for such shares. In addition, the Adviser is not obligated to incur any expense to send a representative to a shareholder meeting or to translate proxy materials into English.
To the extent that the Adviser is permitted to loan securities, the Adviser does not have the right to vote on securities while they are on loan. However, the Adviser will take all reasonable steps to recall shares prior to the record date when the meeting raises issues that the Adviser believes materially affect shareholder value, including, but not limited to, excessive compensation, mergers and acquisitions, contested elections and weak oversight by the audit committee. However, there can be no assurance that the Adviser will have sufficient notice of such matters to be able to terminate the loan in time to vote thereon.
The Adviser will take into account feedback from issuers on the voting recommendations of the Adviser’s proxy advisory firm if the feedback is provided at least five days before the voting cut-off date. In certain circumstances, primarily those where the Adviser’s voting policy is absolute and without exception, issuer feedback will not be part of the voting decision. For example, it is the Adviser’s policy to always support a shareholder proposal to separate the roles of chairman of the board and CEO. Thus, any comments from the issuer opposing this proposal would not be considered.
If proxies are not delivered in a timely or otherwise appropriate basis, the Adviser may not be able to vote a particular proxy.
For an Adviser that employs a quantitative investment strategy for certain funds or accounts that does not make use of qualitative research (“Non-Qualitative Accounts”), the Adviser may not have the kind of research to make decisions about how to vote proxies for them. Therefore, the Adviser will vote the proxies of these Non-Qualitative Accounts as follows: (a) in accordance with the Standard Voting Instructions (defined below); (b) if the Adviser is casting votes for the same proxy on behalf of a regular qualitative account and a Non-Qualitative Account, the Non-Qualitative Account would vote in the same manner as the regular qualitative account; (c) if neither of the first two conditions apply, as the proxy advisory firm is recommending; and (d) if none of the previous conditions apply, as recommended by the Proxy Voting Committee.
Proxy Voting Procedures
The Adviser has established a Proxy Voting Committee (“Proxy Committee”), to exercise all voting discretion granted to the Adviser by the Board in accordance with the proxy voting policies. To assist it in carrying out the day-to-day operations related to proxy voting, the Proxy Committee has created the Proxy Voting Management Group (PVMG). The day-to-day operations related to proxy voting are carried out by the Proxy Voting Operations Team (PVOT) and overseen by the PVMG. Besides voting the proxies, this work includes engaging with investee companies on corporate governance matters, managing the proxy advisory firm, soliciting voting recommendations from the Adviser’s investment professionals, bringing voting recommendations to the Proxy Committee for approval, filing with regulatory agencies any required proxy voting reports, providing proxy voting reports to clients and investment companies as they are requested from time to time, and keeping the Proxy Committee informed of any issues related to corporate governance and proxy voting.
The Adviser has compiled a list of specific voting instructions based on the General Policy (the “Standard Voting Instructions”). The Standard Voting Instructions and any modifications to them are approved by the Proxy Committee. The Standard Voting Instructions sometimes call for an investment professional to review the ballot question and provide a voting recommendation to the Proxy Committee (a “case-by-case vote”). The foregoing notwithstanding, the Proxy Committee always has the authority to determine a final voting decision.
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The Adviser has hired a proxy advisory firm to perform various proxy voting related administrative services such as ballot reconciliation, vote processing and recordkeeping functions. The Proxy Committee has supplied the proxy advisory firm with the Standard Voting Instructions. The Proxy Committee retains the right to modify the Standard Voting Instructions at any time or to vote contrary to them at any time in order to cast proxy votes in a manner that the Proxy Committee believes is in accordance with the General Policy. The proxy advisory firm may vote any proxy as directed in the Standard Voting Instructions without further direction from the Proxy Committee. However, if the Standard Voting Instructions require case-by-case handling for a proposal, the PVOT will work with the investment professionals and the proxy advisory firm to develop a voting recommendation for the Proxy Committee and to communicate the Proxy Committee’s final voting decision to the proxy advisory firm. Further, if the Standard Voting Instructions require the PVOT to analyze a ballot question and make the final voting decision, the PVOT will report such votes to the Proxy Committee on a quarterly basis for review.
Conflicts of Interest
The Adviser has adopted procedures to address situations where a matter on which a proxy is sought may present a potential conflict between the interests of the Fund (and its shareholders) and those of the Adviser or Distributor. This may occur where a significant business relationship exists between the Adviser (or its affiliates) and a company involved with a proxy vote.
A company that is a proponent, opponent, or the subject of a proxy vote, and which to the knowledge of the Proxy Committee has this type of significant business relationship, is referred to below as an “Interested Company.”
The Adviser has implemented the following procedures in order to avoid concerns that the conflicting interests of the Adviser or its affiliates have influenced proxy votes. Any employee of the Adviser or its affiliates who is contacted by an Interested Company regarding proxies to be voted by the Adviser must refer the Interested Company to a member of the Proxy Committee, and must inform the Interested Company that the Proxy Committee has exclusive authority to determine how the proxy will be voted. Any Proxy Committee member contacted by an Interested Company must report it to the full Proxy Committee and provide a written summary of the communication. This requirement includes engagement meetings with investee companies and does not include communications with proxy solicitation firms. Under no circumstances will the Proxy Committee or any member of the Proxy Committee make a commitment to an Interested Company regarding the voting of proxies or disclose to an Interested Company how the Proxy Committee has directed such proxies to be voted. If the Standard Voting Instructions already provide specific direction on the proposal in question, the Proxy Committee shall not alter or amend such directions. If the Standard Voting Instructions require the Proxy Committee to provide further direction, the Proxy Committee shall do so in accordance with the proxy voting policies, without regard for the interests of the Adviser with respect to the Interested Company. If the Proxy Committee provides any direction as to the voting of proxies relating to a proposal affecting an Interested Company, it must disclose annually to the Fund’s Board information regarding: the significant business relationship; any material communication with the Interested Company; the matter(s) voted on; and how, and why, the Adviser voted as it did. In certain circumstances it may be appropriate for the Adviser to vote in the same proportion as all other shareholders, so as to not affect the outcome beyond helping to establish a quorum at the shareholders’ meeting. This is referred to as “proportional voting.” If the Fund owns shares of another Federated Hermes mutual fund, generally the Adviser will proportionally vote the client’s proxies for that fund or seek direction from the Board or the client on how the proposal should be voted. If the Fund owns shares of an unaffiliated mutual fund, the Adviser may proportionally vote the Fund’s proxies for that fund depending on the size of the position. If the Fund owns shares of an unaffiliated exchange-traded fund, the Adviser will proportionally vote the Fund’s proxies for that fund.
Downstream Affiliates
If the Proxy Committee gives further direction, or seeks to vote contrary to the Standard Voting Instructions, for a proxy relating to a portfolio company in which the Fund owns more than 10% of the portfolio company’s outstanding voting securities at the time of the vote (“Downstream Affiliate”), the Proxy Committee must first receive guidance from counsel to the Proxy Committee as to whether any relationship between the Adviser and the portfolio company, other than such ownership of the portfolio company’s securities, gives rise to an actual conflict of interest. If counsel determines that an actual conflict exists, the Proxy Committee must address any such conflict with the executive committee of the board of directors or trustees of any investment company client prior to taking any action on the proxy at issue.
Proxy Advisers’ Conflicts of Interest
Proxy advisory firms may have significant business relationships with the subjects of their research and voting recommendations. For example, a proxy advisory firm board member also sits on the board of a public company for which the proxy advisory firm will write a research report. This and similar situations give rise to an actual or apparent conflict of interest.
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In order to avoid concerns that the conflicting interests of the engaged proxy advisory firm have influenced proxy voting recommendations, the Adviser will take the following steps:
■ A due diligence team made up of employees of the Adviser and/or its affiliates will meet with the proxy advisory firm on an annual basis and determine through a review of their policies and procedures and through inquiry that the proxy advisory firm has established a system of internal controls that provide reasonable assurance that their voting recommendations are not influenced by the business relationships they have with the subjects of their research.
■ Whenever the standard voting guidelines call for voting a proposal in accordance with the proxy advisory firm recommendation and the proxy advisory firm has disclosed that they have a conflict of interest with respect to that issuer, the PVOT will take the following steps: (a) the PVOT will obtain a copy of the research report and recommendations published by another proxy advisory firm for that issuer; (b) the Director of Proxy Voting, or his designee, will review both the engaged proxy advisory firm research report and the research report of the other proxy advisory firm and determine what vote will be cast. The PVOT will report all proxies voted in this manner to the Proxy Committee on a quarterly basis. Alternatively, the PVOT may seek direction from the Committee on how the proposal shall be voted.
Proxy Voting Report
A report on “Form N-PX” of how the Fund voted any proxies during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available via the Proxy Voting Record (Form N-PX) link associated with the Fund and share class name at FederatedInvestors.com/FundInformation. Form N-PX filings are also available at the SEC’s website at sec.gov.
Portfolio Holdings Information
Information concerning the Fund’s portfolio holdings is available via the link to the Fund and share class name at FederatedInvestors.com/FundInformation. A complete listing of the Fund’s portfolio holdings as of the end of each calendar quarter is posted on the website 30 days (or the next business day) after the end of the quarter and remains posted for six months thereafter. Summary portfolio composition information as of the close of each month is posted on the website 15 days (or the next business day) after month-end and remains posted until replaced by the information for the succeeding month. The summary portfolio composition information may include: identification of the Fund’s top 10 holdings, weighted average effective maturity, weighted average effective duration and other portfolio characteristics, recent purchase and sale transactions and percentage breakdowns of the portfolio by sector and credit quality.
You may also access portfolio information as of the end of the Fund’s fiscal quarters via the link to the Fund and share class name at FederatedInvestors.com. The Fund’s Annual Shareholder Report and Semi-Annual Shareholder Report contain complete listings of the Fund’s portfolio holdings as of the end of the Fund’s second and fourth fiscal quarters. Fiscal quarter information is made available on the website within 70 days after the end of the fiscal quarter. This information is also available in reports filed with the SEC at the SEC’s website at sec.gov.
Each fiscal quarter, the Fund will file with the SEC a complete schedule of its monthly portfolio holdings on “Form N-PORT.” The Fund’s holdings as of the end of the third month of every fiscal quarter, as reported on Form N-PORT, will be publicly available on the SEC’s website at sec.gov within 60 days of the end of the fiscal quarter upon filing. You may also access this information via the link to the Fund and share class name at FederatedInvestors.com.
The disclosure policy of the Fund and the Adviser prohibits the disclosure of portfolio holdings information to any investor or intermediary before the same information is made available to other investors. Employees of the Adviser or its affiliates who have access to nonpublic information concerning the Fund’s portfolio holdings are prohibited from trading securities on the basis of this information. Such persons must report all personal securities trades and obtain pre-clearance for all personal securities trades other than mutual fund shares.
Firms that provide administrative, custody, financial, accounting, legal or other services to the Fund may receive nonpublic information about Fund portfolio holdings for purposes relating to their services. The Fund may also provide portfolio holdings information to publications that rate, rank or otherwise categorize investment companies. Traders or portfolio managers may provide “interest” lists to facilitate portfolio trading if the list reflects only that subset of the portfolio for which the trader or portfolio manager is seeking market interest. A list of service providers, publications and other third parties who may receive nonpublic portfolio holdings information appears in the Appendix to this SAI.
The furnishing of nonpublic portfolio holdings information to any third party (other than authorized governmental or regulatory personnel) requires the prior approval of the President of the Adviser and of the Chief Compliance Officer of the Fund. The President of the Adviser and the Chief Compliance Officer will approve the furnishing of nonpublic portfolio holdings information to a third party only if they consider the furnishing of such information to be in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders. In that regard, and to address possible conflicts between the interests of Fund shareholders and those of the Adviser and its affiliates, the following procedures apply. No consideration may be received by the Fund, the Adviser, any affiliate of the
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Adviser or any of their employees in connection with the disclosure of portfolio holdings information. Before information is furnished, the third party must sign a written agreement that it will safeguard the confidentiality of the information, will use it only for the purposes for which it is furnished and will not use it in connection with the trading of any security. Persons approved to receive nonpublic portfolio holdings information will receive it as often as necessary for the purpose for which it is provided. Such information may be furnished as frequently as daily and often with no time lag between the date of the information and the date it is furnished. The Board receives and reviews annually a list of the persons who receive nonpublic portfolio holdings information and the purposes for which it is furnished.
Brokerage Transactions And Investment Allocation
When selecting brokers and dealers to handle the purchase and sale of portfolio instruments, the Adviser looks for prompt execution of the order at a favorable price. Fixed-income securities are generally traded in an over-the-counter market on a net basis (i.e., without commission) through dealers acting as principal or in transactions directly with the issuer. Dealers derive an undisclosed amount of compensation by offering securities at a higher price than they bid for them. Some fixed-income securities may have only one primary market maker. The Adviser seeks to use dealers it believes to be actively and effectively trading the security being purchased or sold, but may not always obtain the lowest purchase price or highest sale price with respect to a security. The Adviser makes decisions on portfolio transactions and selects brokers and dealers subject to review by the Fund’s Board.
Investment decisions for the Fund are made independently from those of other accounts managed by the Adviser and accounts managed by affiliates of the Adviser. When the Fund and one or more of those accounts invests in, or disposes of, the same security, available investments or opportunities for sales will be allocated among the Fund and the account(s) in a manner believed by the Adviser to be equitable. While the coordination and ability to participate in volume transactions may benefit the Fund, it is possible that this procedure could adversely impact the price paid or received and/or the position obtained or disposed of by the Fund. Investment decisions, and trading, for certain separately managed or wrap-fee accounts, and other accounts, of the Adviser and/or certain investment adviser affiliates of the Adviser are generally made, and conducted, independently from the Fund. It is possible that such independent trading activity could adversely impact the prices paid or received and/or positions obtained or disposed of by the Fund.
Administrator
Federated Administrative Services (FAS), a subsidiary of Federated Hermes, provides administrative personnel and services, including certain legal, compliance, recordkeeping and financial reporting services (“Administrative Services”), necessary for the operation of the Fund. FAS provides Administrative Services for a fee based upon the rates set forth below paid on the average daily net assets of the Fund. For purposes of determining the appropriate rate breakpoint, “Investment Complex” is defined as all of the Federated Hermes funds subject to a fee under the Administrative Services Agreement with FAS. FAS is also entitled to reimbursement for certain out-of-pocket expenses incurred in providing Administrative Services to the Fund.
Administrative Services
Fee Rate
Average Daily Net Assets
of the Investment Complex
0.100 of 1%
on assets up to $50 billion
0.075 of 1%
on assets over $50 billion
Custodian
The Bank of New York Mellon, New York, New York, is custodian for the securities and cash of the Fund.
Transfer Agent And Dividend Disbursing Agent
State Street Bank and Trust Company, the Fund’s registered transfer agent, maintains all necessary shareholder records.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund, [To be filed by amendment], conducts its audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), which require it to plan and perform its audits to provide reasonable assurance about whether the Fund’s financial statements and financial highlights are free of material misstatement.
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Fees Paid by the Fund for Services
For the Period Ended June 30
2021
2020
2019
Advisory Fee Earned
$3,998,808
$3,268,620
$3,166,225
Advisory Fee Waived
$ 978,550
$ 897,289
$ 818,012
Net Administrative Fee
$ 775,511
$ 652,049
$ 644,904
Net 12b-1 Fee:
 
 
 
Class A Shares
$0
$207,285
$398,002
Service Shares
$0
$0
$0
Net Shareholder Services Fee:
 
 
 
Class A Shares
$1,040,264
$515,590
$397,537
Institutional Shares
$0
$0
$0
Service Shares
$ 26,156
$ 27,353
$ 32,358
Fees are allocated among classes based on their pro rata share of Fund assets, except for marketing (“Rule 12b-1”) fees and shareholder services fees, which are borne only by the applicable class of Shares.
If the Fund’s expenses are capped at a particular level, the cap does not include reimbursement to the Fund of any expenses incurred by shareholders who use the transfer agent’s subaccounting facilities.
Securities Lending Activities
The services provided to the Fund by Citibank, N.A. as securities lending agent may include the following: selecting securities previously identified by the Fund as available for loan to be loaned; locating borrowers identified in the securities lending agency agreement; negotiating loan terms; monitoring daily the value of the loaned securities and collateral; requiring additional collateral as necessary; marking to market non-cash collateral; instructing the Fund’s custodian with respect to the transfer of loaned securities; indemnifying the Fund in the event of a borrower default; and arranging for return of loaned securities to the Fund at loan termination.
The Fund did not participate in any securities lending activities during the Fund’s most recently completed fiscal year.
Gross income from securities lending activities
$00.00
Fees and/or compensation for securities lending activities and related services
 
Fees paid to securities lending agent from a revenue split
$00.00
Fees paid for any cash collateral management service (including fees deducted from a pooled cash collateral reinvestment vehicle) that are not included in
the revenue split
Administrative fees not included in revenue split
Indemnification fee not included in revenue split
Rebate (paid to borrower)
$00.00
Other fees not included in revenue split (specify)
Aggregate fees/compensation for securities lending activities
$00.00
Net income from securities lending activities
$00.00
The Financial Statements for the Fund for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021, are incorporated herein by reference to the Annual Report to Shareholders of Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund dated June 30, 2021.
Investment Ratings
Standard & Poor’s Rating Services (S&P) LONG-TERM Issue RATINGS
Issue credit ratings are based, in varying degrees, on S&P’s analysis of the following considerations: the likelihood of payment-capacity and willingness of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on an obligation in accordance with the terms of the obligation; the nature of and provisions of the obligation; and the protection afforded by, and relative position of, the obligation in the event of bankruptcy, reorganization, or other arrangement under the laws of bankruptcy and other laws affecting creditors’ rights.
AAAAn obligation rated “AAA” has the highest rating assigned by S&P. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is extremely strong.
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AAAn obligation rated “AA” differs from the highest rated obligations only to a small degree. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is very strong.
AAn 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 commitment on the obligation is still strong.
BBBAn obligation rated “BBB” exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
Obligations rated “BB,” “B,” “CCC,” “CC” and “C” are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. “BB” indicates the least degree of speculation and “C” the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
BBAn obligation rated “BB” is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead to the obligor’s inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
BAn obligation rated “B” is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated “BB,” but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. Adverse business, financial or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor’s capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
CCCAn obligation rated “CCC” is currently vulnerable to nonpayment, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
CCAn obligation rated “CC” is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment.
CA “C” rating is assigned to obligations that are currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment, obligations that have payment arrearages allowed by the terms of the documents, or obligations of an issuer that is the subject of a bankruptcy petition or similar action which have not experienced a payment default. Among others, the “C” rating may be assigned to subordinated debt, preferred stock or other obligations on which cash payments have been suspended in accordance with the instrument’s terms or when preferred stock is the subject of a distressed exchange offer, whereby some or all of the issue is either repurchased for an amount of cash or replaced by other instruments having a total value that is less than par.
DAn obligation rated “D” is in payment default. The “D” rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P believes that such payments will be made within five business days, irrespective of any grace period. The “D” rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized. An obligation’s rating is lowered to “D” upon completion of a distressed exchange offer, whereby some or all of the issue is either repurchased for an amount of cash or replaced by other instruments having a total value that is less than par.
The ratings from “AA” to “CCC” may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
S&P Rating Outlook
An S&P rating outlook assesses the potential direction of a long-term credit rating over the intermediate term (typically six months to two years). In determining a rating outlook, consideration is given to any changes in the economic and/or fundamental business conditions.
PositivePositive means that a rating may be raised.
NegativeNegative means that a rating may be lowered.
StableStable means that a rating is not likely to change.
DevelopingDeveloping means a rating may be raised or lowered.
N.M.N.M. means not meaningful.
S&P Short-Term Issue RATINGS
Short-term ratings are generally assigned to those obligations considered short-term in the relevant market. In the United States, for example, that means obligations with an original maturity of no more than 365 daysincluding commercial paper.
A-1A short-term obligation rated “A-1” is rated in the highest category by S&P. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on these obligations is extremely strong.
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A-2A 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 commitment on the obligation is satisfactory.
A-3A short-term obligation rated “A-3” exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
BA 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 which could lead to the obligor’s inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.
CA 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 commitment on the obligation.
DA short-term obligation rated “D” is in payment default. The “D” rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P 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 if payments on an obligation are jeopardized.
MOODY’S Investor Services, Inc. (MOODY’s) LONG-TERM RATINGS
Moody’s long-term ratings are assigned to issuers or obligations with an original maturity of one year or more and reflect both on the likelihood of a default on contractually promised payments and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default.
AaaObligations rated Aaa are judged to be of the highest quality, subject to the lowest level of credit risk.
AaObligations rated Aa are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.
AObligations rated A are judged to be upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.
BaaObligations rated Baa are judged to be medium-grade and subject to moderate credit risk and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics.
BaObligations rated Ba are judged to be speculative and are subject to substantial credit risk.
BObligations rated B are considered speculative and are subject to high credit risk.
CaaObligations rated Caa are judged to be speculative of poor standing and are subject to very high credit risk.
CaObligations rated Ca are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect of recovery of principal and interest.
CObligations rated C are the lowest rated and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.
Moody’s appends numerical modifiers 1, 2 and 3 to each generic rating classification from Aaa 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.
MOODY’S Short-Term RATINGS
Moody’s short-term ratings are assigned to obligations with an original maturity of 13 months or less and reflect the likelihood of a default on contractually promised payments.
P-1Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated P-1 have a superior ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
P-2Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated P-2 have a strong ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
P-3Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated P-3 have an acceptable ability to repay short-term obligations.
NPIssuers (or supporting institutions) rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating categories.
FITCH, INC. (Fitch) LONG-TERM Debt RATINGs
Fitch long-term ratings report Fitch’s opinion on an entity’s relative vulnerability to default on financial obligations. The “threshold” default risk addressed by the rating is generally that of the financial obligations whose non-payment would best reflect the uncured failure of that entity. As such, Fitch long-term ratings also address relative vulnerability to bankruptcy, administrative receivership or similar concepts, although the agency recognizes that issuers may also make pre-emptive and therefore voluntary use of such mechanisms.
AAA: Highest Credit Quality“AAA” ratings denote the lowest expectation of default risk. They are assigned only in cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.
AA: Very High Credit Quality“AA” ratings denote expectations of very low default risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.
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A: High Credit Quality“A” ratings denote expectations of low default risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.
BBB: Good Credit Quality“BBB” ratings indicate that expectations of default risk are currently low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate, but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.
BB: Speculative“BB” ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to default risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time; however, business or financial flexibility exists which supports the servicing of financial commitments.
B: Highly Speculative“B” ratings indicate that material default risk is present, but a limited margin of safety remains. Financial commitments are currently being met; however, capacity for continued payment is vulnerable to deterioration in the business and economic environment.
CCC: Substantial Credit RiskDefault is a real possibility.
CC: Very High Levels of Credit RiskDefault of some kind appears probable.
C: Exceptionally High Levels of Credit RiskDefault is imminent or inevitable, or the issuer is in standstill. Conditions that are indicative of a “C” category rating for an issuer include: (a) the issuer has entered into a grace or cure period following non-payment of a material financial obligation; (b) the issuer has entered into a temporary negotiated waiver or standstill agreement following a payment default on a material financial obligation; or (c) Fitch otherwise believes a condition of “RD” or “D” to be imminent or inevitable, including through the formal announcement of a distressed debt exchange.
RD: Restricted Default“RD” ratings indicate an issuer that in Fitch’s opinion has experienced an uncured payment default on a bond, loan or other material financial obligation but which has not entered into bankruptcy filings, administration, receivership, liquidation or other formal winding-up procedure, and which has not otherwise ceased operating. This would include: (a) the selective payment default on a specific class or currency of debt; (b) the uncured expiry of any applicable grace period, cure period or default forbearance period following a payment default on a bank loan, capital markets security or other material financial obligation; (c) the extension of multiple waivers or forbearance periods upon a payment default on one or more material financial obligations, either in series or in parallel; or (d) execution of a distressed debt exchange on one or more material financial obligations.
D: Default“D” ratings indicate an issuer that in Fitch’s opinion has entered into bankruptcy filings, administration, receivership, liquidation or other formal winding-up procedure, or which has otherwise ceased business.
Default ratings are not assigned prospectively to entities or their obligations; within this context, non-payment on an instrument that contains a deferral feature or grace period will generally not be considered a default until after the expiration of the deferral or grace period, unless a default is otherwise driven by bankruptcy or other similar circumstance, or by a distressed debt exchange.
“Imminent” default typically refers to the occasion where a payment default has been intimated by the issuer, and is all but inevitable. This may, for example, be where an issuer has missed a scheduled payment, but (as is typical) has a grace period during which it may cure the payment default. Another alternative would be where an issuer has formally announced a distressed debt exchange, but the date of the exchange still lies several days or weeks in the immediate future.
In all cases, the assignment of a default rating reflects the agency’s opinion as to the most appropriate rating category consistent with the rest of its universe of ratings, and may differ from the definition of default under the terms of an issuer’s financial obligations or local commercial practice.
FITCH SHORT-TERM DEBT RATINGs
A Fitch short-term issuer or obligation rating is based in all cases on the short-term vulnerability to default of the rated entity or security stream and relates to the capacity to meet financial obligations in accordance with the documentation governing the relevant obligation. Short-Term Ratings are assigned to obligations whose initial maturity is viewed as “short-term” based on market convention. Typically, this means up to 13 months for corporate, sovereign and structured obligations, and up to 36 months for obligations in U.S. public finance markets.
F1: Highest Short-Term Credit QualityIndicates 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 QualityGood intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments.
F3: Fair Short-Term Credit QualityThe intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate.
B: Speculative Short-Term Credit QualityMinimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus heightened vulnerability to near-term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.
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C: High Short-Term Default RiskDefault is a real possibility.
RD: Restricted DefaultIndicates an entity that has defaulted on one or more of its financial commitments, although it continues to meet other financial obligations. Applicable to entity ratings only.
D: DefaultIndicates a broad-based default event for an entity, or the default of a short-term obligation.
A.M. BEST Company, Inc. (a.m. best) LONG-TERM DEBT and Preferred Stock RATINGS
A Best’s long-term debt rating is Best’s independent opinion of an issuer/entity’s ability to meet its ongoing financial obligations to security holders when due.
aaa: ExceptionalAssigned to issues where the issuer has an exceptional ability to meet the terms of the obligation.
aa: Very StrongAssigned to issues where the issuer has a very strong ability to meet the terms of the obligation.
a: StrongAssigned to issues where the issuer has a strong ability to meet the terms of the obligation.
bbb: AdequateAssigned to issues where the issuer has an adequate ability to meet the terms of the obligation; however, the issue is more susceptible to changes in economic or other conditions.
bb: SpeculativeAssigned to issues where the issuer has speculative credit characteristics, generally due to a modest margin or principal and interest payment protection and vulnerability to economic changes.
b: Very SpeculativeAssigned to issues where the issuer has very speculative credit characteristics, generally due to a modest margin of principal and interest payment protection and extreme vulnerability to economic changes.
ccc, cc, c: Extremely SpeculativeAssigned to issues where the issuer has extremely speculative credit characteristics, generally due to a minimal margin of principal and interest payment protection and/or limited ability to withstand adverse changes in economic or other conditions.
d: In DefaultAssigned to issues in default on payment of principal, interest or other terms and conditions, or when a bankruptcy petition or similar action has been filed.
Ratings from “aa” to “ccc” may be enhanced with a “+” (plus) or “-” (minus) to indicate whether credit quality is near the top or bottom of a category.
A.M. BEST SHORT-TERM DEBT RATINGS
A Best’s short-term debt rating is Best’s opinion of an issuer/entity’s ability to meet its financial obligations having original maturities of generally less than one year, such as commercial paper.
AMB-1+ StrongestAssigned to issues where the issuer has the strongest ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
AMB-1 OutstandingAssigned to issues where the issuer has an outstanding ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
AMB-2 SatisfactoryAssigned to issues where the issuer has a satisfactory ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
AMB-3 AdequateAssigned to issues where the issuer has an adequate ability to repay short-term debt obligations; however, adverse economic conditions likely will reduce the issuer’s capacity to meet its financial commitments.
AMB-4 SpeculativeAssigned to issues where the issuer has speculative credit characteristics and is vulnerable to adverse economic or other external changes, which could have a marked impact on the company’s ability to meet its financial commitments.
d: In DefaultAssigned to issues in default on payment of principal, interest or other terms and conditions, or when a bankruptcy petition or similar action has been filed.
A.M. Best Rating Modifiers
Both long- and short-term credit ratings can be assigned a modifier.
uIndicates the rating may change in the near term, typically within six months. Generally is event-driven, with positive, negative or developing implications.
pdIndicates ratings assigned to a company that chose not to participate in A.M. Best’s interactive rating process. (Discontinued in 2010).
iIndicates rating assigned is indicative.
39

A.M. BEST RATING OUTLOOK
A.M. Best Credit Ratings are assigned a Rating Outlook that indicates the potential direction of a credit rating over an intermediate term, generally defined as the next 12 to 36 months.
PositiveIndicates possible ratings upgrade due to favorable financial/market trends relative to the current trading level.
NegativeIndicates possible ratings downgrade due to unfavorable financial/market trends relative to the current trading level.
StableIndicates low likelihood of rating change due to stable financial/market trends.
Not Rated
Certain nationally recognized statistical rating organizations (NRSROs) may designate certain issues as NR, meaning that the issue or obligation is not rated.
40

Addresses
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund
Class A2 Shares
Federated Hermes Funds
4000 Ericsson Drive
Warrendale, PA 15086-7561
Distributor
Federated Securities Corp.
1001 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15222-3779
Investment Adviser
Federated Investment Management Company
1001 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15222-3779
Custodian
The Bank of New York Mellon
One Wall Street
New York, NY 10286
Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent
State Street Bank and Trust Company
P.O. Box 219318
Kansas City, MO 64121-9318
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
[To be filed by Amendment]
41

Appendix
The following is a list of persons, other than the Adviser and its affiliates, that have been approved to receive nonpublic portfolio holdings information concerning the Federated Hermes Complex; however, certain persons below might not receive such information concerning the Fund:
CUSTODIAN(S)
The Bank of New York Mellon
Securities Lending Agent
N/A
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To be filed by amendment
LEGAL COUNSEL
Goodwin Procter LLP
K&L Gates LLP
Financial Printer(S)
Donnelley Financial Solutions
Proxy Voting Administrator
Glass Lewis & Co., LLC
SECURITY PRICING SERVICES
Bloomberg L.P.
IHS Markit (Markit North America)
ICE Data Pricing & Reference Data, LLC
JPMorgan PricingDirect
Refinitiv US Holdings Inc.
RATINGS AGENCIES
Fitch, Inc.
Moody’s Investors Service, Inc.
Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC
Other SERVICE PROVIDERS
Other types of service providers that have been approved to receive nonpublic portfolio holdings information include service providers offering, for example, trade order management systems, portfolio analytics, or performance and accounting systems, such as:
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Bloomberg L.P.
Charles River Development
Citibank, N.A.
Eagle Investment Systems LLC
Electra Information Systems
FactSet Research Systems Inc.
FISGlobal
Institutional Shareholder Services
Investortools, Inc.
MSCI ESG Research LLC
Sustainalytics U.S. Inc.
Wolters Kluwer N.V.





42

Item 28. Exhibits

(a) Declaration of Trust  
  Conformed copy of Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust of the Registrant dated April 2, 1999 including Amendment Nos. 5-11 +

 

(b) By-Laws  
  Conformed Copy of Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Registrant including Amendment Nos. 5-15, as filed via EDGAR in Post-Effective Amendment No. 69 on August 26, 2020 on Form N-1A (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181)  

 

(c) Instruments Defining Rights of Security Holders  
1 Copy of Specimen Certificate for Shares of Beneficial Interest of the Registrant as filed in the Registrant’s Initial Registrant Statement on Form N-1 on May 13, 1981 (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181).  
2 Copy of Specimen Certificate for Shares of Beneficial Interest of the Registrant as filed in Post-Effective Amendment No. 29 on April 25, 1996 on Form N-1A (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181).  
  As of September 1, 1997, Federated Securities Corp. stopped issuing share certificates.  

 

(d) Investment Advisory Contracts  
  Conformed copy of the Investment Advisory Contract of the Registrant dated August 1, 1989, including Amendment dated April 1, 1999 and Limited Power of Attorney dated June 1, 2017, as filed via EDGAR in Post-Effective Amendment No. 69 on August 26, 2020 on Form N-1A (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181)  

 

(e) Underwriting Contracts  
  Form of the Distributor’s Contract of the Registrant dated June 1, 1993, including Exhibits A through D and Amendments dated June 1, 2001 and October 1, 2003 +

 

 

 

(f) Bonus or Profit Sharing Contracts  
  Not applicable  

 

(g) Custodian Agreements  
  Conformed copy of Amended and Restated Master Custodian Agreement dated June 7, 2005 by and between The Bank of New York and the Registrant, including Amendments 1-34 and Exhibits A and B (revised June 1, 2021), as filed via EDGAR in Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 on August 25, 2021 on Form N-1A (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181)  

 

 

(h) Other Material Contracts  
     
1 Services Agreement  
(a) Conformed copy of Services Agreement between Federated Advisory Services Company and Federated Investment Management Company dated January 1, 2004, including Schedule 1 (revised September 1, 2021) +
(b) Conformed copy of the Second Amended and Restated Services Agreement, amended and restated as of December 1, 2001, between Federated Shareholder Services Company and the Registrant, including Schedule 1 (revised September 1, 2021) +
     
2 Transfer Agency Agreement  
  Conformed copy of the Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between the Federated Funds and State Street Bank and Trust dated January 31, 2017, including Exhibit A (revised March 2, 2021) and Schedules, as filed via EDGAR in Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 on August 25, 2021 on Form N-1A (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181)  
     
3 Administrative Services Agreement  
  Conformed copy of the Second Amended and Restated Agreement for Administrative Services between the Federated Funds and Federated Administrative Services dated September 1, 2017, including Exhibit A (revised June 1, 2021) and Exhibit B, as filed via EDGAR in Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 on August 25, 2021 on Form N-1A (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181)  
     
4 Financial Administration and Accounting Agreement  
  Conformed copy of the Financial Administration and Accounting Services Agreement between the Federated Funds and The Bank of New York Mellon dated March 1, 2011, as amended, updated as of June 1, 2021, as filed via EDGAR in Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 on August 25, 2021 on Form N-1A (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181)  

 

(i) Legal Opinion  
  Not Applicable  

 

(j) Other Opinions  
  Conformed copy of Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm Ernst & Young LLP NA

 

(k) Omitted Financial Statements  
  Not Applicable  

 

(l) Initial Capital Agreements  
  Conformed copy of Initial Capital Understanding, as filed on paper in Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 on August 4, 1981 on Form N-1 (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181).  

 

(m) Rule 12b-1 Plan  
  Form of the Distribution Plan between the Registrant and Federated Securities Corp., dated February 12, 2004, including Exhibits A through C and Amendments No. 1 to Exhibits A and B, each dated December 1, 2019 +

 

(n) Rule 18f-3 Plan  
  Conformed copy of the Multiple Class Plan and all share class Exhibits as adopted by certain Federated investment companies offering separate classes of shares +

 

 

(o) Powers of Attorney  
  Conformed copy of Power of Attorney of the Registrant dated November 1, 2020, as filed via EDGAR in Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 on August 25, 2021 on Form N-1A (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181)  

 

(p) Codes of Ethics  
  Conformed copy of the Federated Hermes, Inc. Code of Ethics for Access Persons, effective April 26, 2021, as filed via EDGAR in Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 on August 25, 2021 on Form N-1A (File Nos. 2-72277 and 811-3181)  

 

+ Exhibit is being filed electronically with registration statement  

 

Exhibit List for Inline Interactive Data File Submission. 

Index No. Description of Exhibit
EX-101.INS XBRL Instance Document - Instance Document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the inline XBRL 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

 

Item 29  Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with the Fund:
None

 

 
 

 

Item 30.  Indemnification

Indemnification is provided to Officers and Trustees of the Registrant pursuant to the Registrant's By-Laws, as amended. This includes indemnification against: (a) any liabilities or expenses incurred in connection with the defense or disposition of any action, suit or proceeding in which an Officer or Trustee may be or may have been involved; and (b) any liabilities and expenses incurred by an Officer or Trustee as a result of having provided personally identifiable information to a regulator or counterparty by or with whom the Registrant (or its series, as applicable) is regulated or engages in business to satisfy a legal or procedural requirement of such regulator or counterparty.

The Investment Advisory Contract, and Sub-advisory Agreement as applicable, (collectively, “Advisory Contracts”) between the Registrant and the investment adviser, and sub-adviser as applicable, (collectively, “Advisers”) of its series, provide that, in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of the obligations or duties under the Advisory Contracts on the part of the Advisers, Advisers shall not be liable to the Registrant or to any shareholder for any act or omission in the course of or connected in any way with rendering services or for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding, or sale of any security.

The Registrant’s distribution contract contains provisions limiting the liability, and providing for indemnification, of the Officers and Trustees under certain circumstances.

Registrant's Trustees and Officers are covered by an Investment Trust Errors and Omissions Policy.

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to Trustees, Officers, and controlling persons of the Registrant by the Registrant pursuant to the By-Laws, as amended, or otherwise, the Registrant is aware that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and, therefore, is 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 Trustees), Officers, or controlling persons of the Registrant in connection with the successful defense of any act, suit, or proceeding) is asserted by such Trustees, Officers, or controlling persons in connection with the shares 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 issues.

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities may be permitted pursuant to Section 17 of the Investment Company Act of 1940 for Trustees [Directors], Officers, and controlling persons of the Registrant by the Registrant pursuant to the By-Laws, as amended, or otherwise, the Registrant is aware of the position of the Securities and Exchange Commission as set forth in Investment Company Act Release No. IC-11330. Therefore, the Registrant undertakes that in addition to complying with the applicable provisions of the By-Laws, as amended, or otherwise, in the absence of a final decision on the merits by a court or other body before which the proceeding was brought, that an indemnification payment will not be made unless in the absence of such a decision, a reasonable determination based upon factual review has been made (i) by a majority vote of a quorum of non-party Trustees who are not interested persons of the Registrant or (ii) by independent legal counsel in a written opinion that the indemnitee was not liable for an act of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of duties. The Registrant further undertakes that advancement of expenses incurred in the defense of a proceeding (upon undertaking for repayment unless it is ultimately determined that indemnification is appropriate) against an Officer, Trustee or controlling person of the Registrant will not be made absent the fulfillment of at least one of the following conditions: (i) the indemnitee provides security for his undertaking; (ii) the Registrant is insured against losses arising by reason of any lawful advances; or (iii) a majority of a quorum of disinterested non-party Trustees or independent legal counsel in a written opinion makes a factual determination that there is reason to believe the indemnitee will be entitled to indemnification.

 

 

Item 31  Business and Other Connections of Investment Adviser: Federated Investment Management Company
For a description of the other business of the Investment Adviser, see the section entitled “Who Manages the Fund?” in Part A. The affiliations with the Registrant of two of the Trustees and 2 of the Officers of the Investment Adviser are included in Part B of this Registration Statement under "Who Manages and Provides Services to the Fund?"  The remaining Trustees of the Investment Adviser and, in parentheses, their principal occupations are:  Thomas R. Donahue, (Chief Financial Officer, Federated Hermes, Inc.), 1001 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222-3779, John B. Fisher, (Vice Chairman, Federated Hermes, Inc.) 1001 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA, 15222-3779 and James J. Gallagher, II, Partner, Morris James LLP, 500 Delaware Avenue, Suite 1500, Wilmington, DE  19801-1494.  The business address of each of the Officers of the Investment Adviser is 1001 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-3779.  These individuals are also officers of a majority of the Investment Advisers to the investment companies in the Federated Hermes Fund Complex described in Part B of this Registration Statement.
The Officers of the Investment Adviser are:
Chairman: J. Christopher Donahue
President/ Chief Executive Officer: John B. Fisher
Executive Vice Presidents:

Deborah A. Cunningham

Anne H. Kruczek

Robert J. Ostrowski

Timothy G. Trebilcock

Senior Vice Presidents:

Todd Abraham

J. Scott Albrecht

Randall S. Bauer

Jonathan C. Conley

Mark E. Durbiano

Donald T. Ellenberger

Eamonn G. Folan

Richard J. Gallo

John T. Gentry

Susan R. Hill

William R. Jamison

Jeffrey A. Kozemchak

Marian R. Marinack

Mary Jo Ochson

Jeffrey A. Petro

Ihab Salib

Michael W. Sirianni, Jr.

Steven J. Wagner

Paige Wilhelm

 

Vice Presidents:

Christopher S. Bodamer

G. Andrew Bonnewell

Hanan Callas

David B. Catalane, Jr.

Nicholas S. Cecchini

Leslie Ciferno

Jerome Conner

Lee R. Cunningham, II

Gregory Czamara, V

B. Anthony Delserone, Jr.

Jason DeVito

Bryan Dingle

William Ehling

Joseph P. Engel

Ann Ferentino

Kevin M. Fitzpatrick

Timothy P. Gannon

Kathryn P. Glass

James L. Grant

Patricia L. Heagy

Nathan H. Kehm

Allen J. Knizner

Tracey Lusk

Karen Manna

Daniel James Mastalski

Robert J. Matthews

Christopher McGinley

Keith E. Michaud

Karl Mocharko

Joseph M. Natoli

Gene Neavin

Bob Nolte

Liam O’Connell

Mary Kay Pavuk

John Polinski

Rae Ann Rice

Brian Ruffner

Thomas C. Scherr

John Sidawi

Kyle Stewart

Patrick J. Strollo, III

Mary Ellen Tesla

James Damen Thompson

Nicholas S. Tripodes

Anthony A. Venturino

Mark Weiss

George B. Wright

Christopher Wu

 

Assistant Vice Presidents:

John Badeer

Patrick Benacci

James Chelmu

Jordan Gregov

Brandon Ray Hochstetler

Jeff J. Ignelzi

Nick Navari

Bradley Payne

Braden Rotberg

John W. Scullion

Steven J. Slanika

Peter Snook

Tyler R. Stenger

Randal Stuckwish

Patrick O. Watson

Michael S. Wilson

 

Secretary: G. Andrew Bonnewell
Assistant Secretaries:

Edward C. Bartley

George F. Magera

 

Treasurer: Thomas R. Donahue
Assistant Treasurers: Jeremy D. Boughton
Richard A. Novak
Chief Compliance Officer: Stephen Van Meter

 

Item 32  Principal Underwriters:
(a) Federated Securities Corp., the Distributor for shares of the Registrant, acts as principal underwriter for the following investment companies, including the Registrant:
  Federated Hermes Adjustable Rate Securities Trust
  Federated Hermes Adviser Series
  Federated Hermes Core Trust
  Federated Hermes Core Trust III
  Federated Hermes Equity Funds
  Federated Hermes Equity Income Fund, Inc.
  Federated Hermes Fixed Income Securities, Inc.
  Federated Hermes Global Allocation Fund
  Federated Hermes Government Income Securities, Inc.
  Federated Hermes Government Income Trust
  Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund, Inc.
  Federated Hermes High Yield Trust
  Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust
  Federated Hermes Index Trust
  Federated Hermes Institutional Trust
  Federated Hermes Insurance Series
  Federated Hermes Intermediate Municipal Trust
  Federated Hermes International Series, Inc.
  Federated Hermes Investment Series Funds, Inc.
  Federated Hermes Managed Pool Series
  Federated Hermes MDT Series
  Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust
  Federated Hermes Municipal Bond Fund, Inc.
  Federated Hermes Municipal Securities Income Trust
  Federated Hermes Premier Municipal Income Fund
  Federated Hermes Project and Trade Finance Tender Fund
  Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust
  Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Government Trust
  Federated Hermes Short-Term Government Trust
  Federated Hermes Total Return Government Bond Fund
  Federated Hermes Total Return Series, Inc.
  Federated Hermes World Investment Series, Inc.

 

(b)    

(1)

Positions and Offices with Distributor

(2)

Name

(3)

Positions and Offices With Registrant

Executive Vice President, Assistant Secretary and Director: Thomas R. Donahue  
President and Director: Paul Uhlman  
Vice President and Director: Peter J. Germain  
Director: Frank C. Senchak  

 

(1)

Positions and Offices with Distributor

(2)

Name

(3)

Positions and Offices With Registrant

Executive Vice Presidents:

Michael Bappert

Peter W. Eisenbrandt

Anne H. Kruczek

Solon A. Person, IV

 
Senior Vice Presidents:

Irving Anderson

Daniel G. Berry

Jack Bohnet

Edwin J. Brooks, III

Bryan Burke

Scott J. Charlton

Steven R. Cohen

James S. Conley

Stephen R. Cronin

Charles L. Davis, Jr.

Michael T. DiMarsico

Jack C. Ebenreiter

James Getz, Jr.

Scott A. Gunderson

Dayna C. Haferkamp

Vincent L. Harper, Jr.

Bruce E. Hastings

Jeffrey S. Jones

Ryan W. Jones

Scott D. Kavanagh

Michael Koenig

Edwin C. Koontz

Jane E. Lambesis

Jerry Landrum

Hans W. Lange, Jr.

Michael Liss

Diane Marzula

Amy Michaliszyn

Richard C. Mihm

Vincent T. Morrow

John C. Mosko

Alec H. Neilly

Keith Nixon

James E. Ostrowski

Stephen Otto

Richard P. Paulson

Richard A. Recker

Diane M. Robinson

Brian S. Ronayne

Timothy A. Rosewicz

Eduardo G. Sanchez

Tom Schinabeck

Edward L. Smith

John A. Staley

Mark J. Strubel

William C. Tustin

Michael N. Vahl

G. Walter Whalen

Lewis C. Williams

Theodore E. Williams

Michael Wolff

Daniel R. Wroble

Erik Zettlemayer

 

 
Vice Presidents:

Frank Amato

Catherine M. Applegate

Kenneth C. Baber

Raisa E. Barkaloff

Robert W. Bauman

Marc Benacci

Christopher D. Berg

Bill Boarts

Zachary Bono

Matthew A. Boyle

Edward R. Bozek

Thomas R. Brown

Mark Carroll

Dan Casey

Stephen J. Costlow

Mary Ellen Coyne

David G. Dankmyer

Christopher T. Davis

Charles R. Ebbs

Donald Edwards

Mark A. Flisek

Stephen Francis

Heather W. Froelich

David D. Gregoire

Raymond J. Hanley

George M. Hnaras

Scott A. Holick

Christopher Jackson

Todd Jones

Patrick Kelly

Nicholas R. Kemerer

Robert H. Kern

Shawn E. Knutson

Crystal C. Kwok

David M. Larrick

Justin Levy

John P. Liekar

Jonathan Lipinski

Paul J. Magan

Alexi A. Maravel

Meghan McAndrew

Martin J. McCaffrey

Samuel McGowan

Daniel McGrath

Brian McInis

Harry Mills

Mark J. Murphy

Ryan M. Newman

Catherine M. Nied

Ted Noethling

John A. O’Neill

Mark Patsy

Marcus Persichetti

Max E. Recker

Emory Redd

Matt Ryan

 
 

John Shrewsbury

Peter Siconolfi

Bradley Smith

John R. Stanley

Jonathan Sullivan

Gregory Tzanoukakis

David Wasik

Brian R. Willer

Littell L. Wilson

James J. Wojciak

 
Assistant Vice Presidents:

Debbie Adams-Marshall

Edward R. Costello

Adina A. Davis

Madison Dischinger

Kristen C. Kiesling

Anthony W. Lennon

Stephen R. Massey

Carol McEvoy McCool

John K. Murray

Melissa R. Ryan

Carol Anne Sheppard

Scott A. Vallina

Laura Vickerman

 
Secretary: Kary A. Moore  
Assistant Secretaries: Edward C. Bartley  
  Thomas R. Donahue  
  George F. Magera  
Treasurer: Richard A. Novak  
Assistant Treasurer: Jeremy D. Boughton  
Chief Compliance Officer: Stephen Van Meter  

 

(c) Not Applicable

 

 
 

 

 

Item 33  Location of Accounts and Records:
All accounts and records required to be maintained by Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and Rules 31a-1 through 31a-3 promulgated thereunder are maintained at one of the following locations:

 

Registrant

Federated Hermes Funds
4000 Ericsson Drive

Warrendale, PA 15086-7561

 

(Notices should be sent to the Agent for Service at the address listed on the facing page of this filing.)

State Street Bank and Trust Company

(“Transfer Agent and Disbursing Agent”)

P.O. Box 219318
Kansas City, MO  64121-9318

The Bank of New York Mellon

(“Custodian”)

One Wall Street

New York, NY 10286

Federated Administrative Services (“Administrator)

1001 Liberty Avenue

Pittsburgh, PA 15222-3779

Federated Investment Management Company (“Adviser”)

1001 Liberty Avenue

Pittsburgh, PA 15222-3779

 

Item 34 Management Services:  Not applicable.

 

Item 35  Undertakings:
Registrant hereby undertakes to comply with the provisions of Section 16(c) of the 1940 Act with respect to the removal of Trustees and the calling of special shareholder meetings by shareholders.

 

 
 

 

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant, FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-INTERMEDIATE DURATION MUNICIPAL TRUST has duly caused this Amendment to its Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Pittsburgh and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, on the 8th day of September, 2021.

FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-INTERMEDIATE DURATION MUNICIPAL TRUST

BY: /s/ George F. Magera

George F. Magera, Assistant Secretary

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Amendment to its Registration Statement has been signed below by the following person in the capacity and on the date indicated:

 

NAME TITLE DATE

BY:/s/ George F. Magera

George F. Magera, Assistant Secretary

Attorney In Fact For the Persons Listed Below September 8, 2021
J. Christopher Donahue* Trustee  
John B. Fisher* President (Principal Executive Officer)  
Lori A. Hensler* Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer/Principal Accounting Officer)  
Thomas R. Donahue* Trustee  
John T. Collins* Trustee  
G. Thomas Hough* Trustee  
Maureen Lally-Green* Trustee  
Thomas O’Neill* Trustee  
Madelyn A. Reilly* Trustee  
P. Jerome Richey* Trustee  
John S. Walsh* Trustee  
*By Power of Attorney    

 

Exhibit 28 (a) under Form N-1A
Exhibit 3 (i) under Item 601/Reg. S-K

 

DECLARATION OF TRUST

FEDERATED SHORT-INTERMEDIATE DURATION MUNICIPAL TRUST

As amended by Amd. #8 - 10/31/07

 

Dated: April 2, 1999

 

 

AMENDED AND RESTATED DECLARATION OF TRUST made April 2, 1999, by the undersigned, and by the holders of shares of beneficial interest to be issued hereunder as hereinafter provided.

 

WHEREAS, the Trustees now desire to amend and restate the Declaration of Trust to permit the Board of Trustees to liquidate assets of the Trust without seeking shareholder approval.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, the Trustees declare that all money and property contributed to the trust fund hereunder shall be held and managed under this Declaration of Trust IN TRUST as herein set froth below.

 

ARTICLE I

NAMES AND DEFINITIONS

 

Section 1. Name.

 

This Trust shall be known as the Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust. As amended by Amd. #10 - 10/31/07

 

Section 2. Definitions.

 

Wherever used herein, unless otherwise required by the context or specifically provided:

 

(a) The terms “Affiliated Person,” “Assignment,” “Commission,” “Interested Person,” “Majority Shareholder Vote” (the 67% or 50% requirement of Section 2(a) (42) of the 1940 Act, whichever may be applicable) and “Principal Underwriter” shall have the meanings given them in the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time;

 

(b) The “Trust” refers to the Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust. As amended by Amd. #10 - 10/31/07

 

(c) “Accumulated Net Income” means the accumulated net income of the Trust determined in the manner provided or authorized in Article X.

 

(d) “Class” refers to a class of Shares established and designated under or in accordance with the provisions of Article II;

 

(e) “Series” refers to a series of Shares established and designated under or in accordance with the provisions of Article III;

 

(f) “Series Company” refers to the form of a registered open-end investment company described in Section 18(f)(2) of the 1940 Act or in any successor statutory provisions;

 

(g) “Shareholder” means a record owner of Shares of any Series or Class;

 

(h) The “Trustees” refer to the individual Trustees in their capacity as Trustees hereunder of the Trust and their successor or successors for the time being in office as such Trustees;

 

(i) “Shares” means the equal proportionate units of interest into which the beneficial interest in the Trust shall be dividend form time to time, or if more than one Series or Class of Shares is authorized by the Trustees, the equal proportionate units into which each Series or Class of Shares shall be dividend from time to time and includes fractions of Shares as well as whole Shares; and

 

(j) The “1940 Act” refers to the Investment Company Act of 1940, and the Rules and Regulations thereunder, (including any exemptions granted thereunder) as amended from time to time.

 

ARTICLE II

PURPOSE OF TRUST

 

The purpose of this Trust is to provide investors a continuous source of managed investments by investing primarily in securities.

 

ARTICLE III

BENEFICIAL INTEREST

 

Section 1. Shares of Beneficial Interest.

 

The beneficial interest in the Trust shall at all times be dividend into transferable Shares, without par value. Subject to the provisions of Section 5 of this Article III, each Share shall have voting rights as provided in Article VIII hereof, and holders of the Shares of any Series shall be entitled to receive dividends, when and as declared with respect thereto in the manner provided in Article X, Section 1 hereof. The Shares of any Series may be issued in two or more Classes, as the Trustees may authorize pursuant to Article XII, Section 8 hereof. Unless the Trustees have authorized the issuance of Shares of a Series in two or more Classes, each Share of a Series shall represent an equal proportionate interest in the assets and liabilities of the Series with each other Share of the same Series, none having priority or preference over another. If the Trustees have authorized the issuance of Shares of a Series in two or more Classes, then the Classes may have such variations as to dividend, redemption, and voting rights, net asset values, expenses borne by the Classes, and other matters as the Trustees have authorized provided that each Share of a Class shall represent an equal proportionate interest in the assets and liabilities of the Class with each other Share of the same Class, none having priority or preference over another. The number of Shares authorized shall be unlimited. The Trustees may from time to time divide or combine the unlimited. The Trustees may form time to time divide or combine the Shares of any Series or Class into a greater or lesser number without thereby changing the proportionate beneficial interests in the Series or Class.

 

Section 2. Ownership or Shares.

 

The ownership of Shares shall be recorded in the books of the Trust or a transfer agent which books shall be maintained separately for the Shares of each Series or Class. The Trustees may make such rules as they consider appropriate for the transfer of Shares and similar matters. The record books of the Trust or any transfer agent, as the case may be, shall be conclusive as to who are the Shareholders of each Series or Class and as to the number of Shares of each Series or Class held from time to time by each.

 

Section 3. Investment in the Trust.

 

The Trustees shall accept investments in the Trust from such persons and on such terms as they may from time to time authorize. After the date of the initial contribution of capital (which shall occur prior to the initial public offering of Shares), the number of Shares to represent the initial contribution shall be considered as outstanding and the amount received by the Trustees on account of the contribution shall be treated as an asset of the Trust to be allocated among any Series or Classes in the manner described in Section 5(a) of this Article. Subsequent to such initial contribution of capital, Shares (including Shares which may have been redeemed or repurchased by the Trust) may be issued or sold at a price which will net the relevant Series or Class, as the case may be, before paying any taxes in connection with such issue or sale, not less than the net asset value (as defined in Article X, Section 4) thereof; provided, however, that the Trustees may in their discretion impose a sales charge upon investments in the Trust.

 

Section 4. No Pre-emptive Rights.

 

Shareholders shall have no pre-emptive or other right to subscribe to any additional Shares or other securities issued by the Trust or the Trustees.

 

Section 5. Establishment and Designation of Series or Class.

 

Without limiting the authority of the Trustees set forth in Article XII, Section 8, inter alia, to establish and designate any additional series or class or to modify the rights and preferences of any existing Series or Class, the series shall be, and is established and designated as:

 

Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

Class A Shares

Service Shares

Institutional Shares.

As amended by Amd. #7 - 6/7/06; Amd. #8 - 10/31/07; Amd. #9 – 9/30/11

 

Shares of any Series or Class established in this Section 5 shall have the following relative rights and preferences:

 

(a) Assets belonging to Series or Class. All consideration received by the Trust for the issue or sale of Shares of a particular Series or Class, together with all assets in which such consideration is invested or reinvested, all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof from whatever source derived, including, without limitation, any proceeds derived form the sale, exchange or liquidation of such proceeds whatever form the same may be, shall irrevocably belong to that Series or Class for all purposes subject only to the rights of creditors, and shall be so recorded upon the books of account of the Trust. Such consideration, assets, income, earnings, profits and proceeds thereof, from whatever source derived, including, without limitation, any proceeds derived from the sale, exchange or liquidation of such assets, and any funds or payments derived from any reinvestment of such proceeds, in whatever form the same may be, are herein referred to as “assets belonging to” that Series or Class. In the event that there are any assets, income, earnings, profits and proceeds thereof, funds or payments which are not readily identifiable as belonging to any particular Series or Class (collectively “General Assets”), the Trustees shall allocate such General Assets to, between or among any one or more of the Series or Classes established and designated from time to time in such manner and on such basis as they, in their sole discretion, deem fair and equitable, and any General Assets so allocated to a particular Series or Class shall belong to that Series or Class. Each such allocation by the Trustees shall be conclusive and binding upon the Shareholders of all Series or Classes for all purposes.

 

(b) Liabilities Belonging to Series or Class. The assets belonging to each particular Series or Class shall be charged with the liabilities of the Trust in respect to that Series or Class and all expenses, costs, charges and reserves attributable to that Series or Class, and any general liabilities of the Trust which are not readily identifiable as belonging to any particular Series or Class shall be allocated and charged by the Trustees to and among any one or more of the Series or Classes established and designated from time to time in such manner and on such basis as the Trustees in their sole discretion deem fair and equitable. The liabilities, expenses, costs, charges and reserves so charged to a Series or Class are herein referred to as “liabilities belonging to” that Series or Class. Each allocation of liabilities belonging to a Series or by the Trustees shall be conclusive and binding upon the Shareholders of all Series or Classes for all purposes.

 

(c) Dividends, Distributions, Redemptions, Repurchases and Indemnification. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Declaration, including, without limitation, Article X, no dividend or distribution (including, without limitation, any distribution paid upon termination of the Trust or of any Series or Class) with respect to, nor any redemption or repurchase of the Shares of any Series Class shall be effected by the Trust other than from the assets belonging to such Series or Class, nor except as specifically provided in Section 1 of Article XI hereof, shall any Shareholder of any particular Series or Class otherwise have any right or claim against the assets belonging to any other Series or Class except to the extent that such Shareholder has such a right or claim hereunder as a Shareholder of such other Series or Class.

 

(d) Voting. Notwithstanding any of the other provisions of this Declaration, including, without limitation, Section 1 of Article VIII, only Shareholders of a particular Series or Class shall be entitled to vote on any matters affecting such Series or Class. Except with respect to matters as to which any particular Series or Class is affected, all of the Shares of each Series or Class shall, on matters as to which such Series or Class is entitled to vote, vote with other Series or Classes so entitled as a single class. Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to matters which would otherwise be voted on by two or more Series or Classes as a single class, the Trustees may, in their sole discretion, submit such matters to the Shareholders of any or all such Series or Classes, separately.

 

(e) Fraction. Any fractional Share of a Series or Class shall carry proportionately all the rights and obligations of a whole Share of that Series or Class, including rights with respect to voting, receipt of dividends and distributions, redemption of Shares and termination of the Trust or of any Series or Class.

 

(f) Exchange Privilege. The Trustees shall have the authority to provide that the holders of Shares of any Series or Class shall have the right to exchange said Shares of one or more other Series or Classes in accordance with such requirements and procedures as may be established by the Trustees.

 

(g) Combination of Series or Classes. The Trustees shall have the authority, without the approval of the Shareholders of any Series or Class, unless otherwise required by applicable law, to combine the assets and liabilities belonging to a single Series or Class with the assets and liabilities of one or more other Series or Classes.

 

(h) Elimination of Series or Classes. At any time that there are no Shares outstanding of any particular Series or Class previously established and designated, the Trustees may amend this Declaration of Trust to abolish that Series or Class and to rescind the establishment and designation thereof.

 

 

ARTICLE IV

THE TRUSTEES

 

Section 1. Management of the Trust.

 

The business and affairs of the Trust shall be managed by the Trustees, and they shall have all powers necessary and desirable to carry out that responsibility. The Trustees who shall serve are the undersigned.

 

Section 2. Election of Trustees at Meeting of Shareholders.

 

On a date fixed by the Trustees, which shall be subsequent to the initial public offering of Shares of the Trust, the Shareholders shall elect Trustees. The number of Trustees shall be determined by the Trustees pursuant to Article IV, Section 6.

 

Section 3. Term of Office of Trustees.

 

The Trustees shall hold office during the lifetime of this Trust, and until its termination as hereinafter provided; except (a) that any Trustee may resign his office at any time by written instrument signed by him and delivered to the other Trustees, which shall take effect upon such delivery or upon such later date as is specified therein; (b) that any Trustee may be removed at any time by written instrument signed by at least two-thirds of the number of Trustees prior to such removal, specifying the date when such removal shall become effective; (c) that any Trustee who requests in writing to be retired or who has become mentally or physically incapacitated may be retired by written instrument signed by a majority of the other Trustees, specifying the date of his retirement; and (d) a Trustee may be removed at any special meeting of Shareholders of the Trust by a vote of two-thirds of the outstanding Shares.

 

Section 4. Termination of Service and Appointment of Trustees.

 

In case of the death, resignation, retirement, removal or mental or physical incapacity of any of the Trustees, or in case a vacancy shall, by reason of an increase in number, or for any other reason, exist, the remaining Trustees shall fill such vacancy by appointing such other person as they in their discretion shall see fit. Such appointment shall be effected by the signing of a written instrument by a majority of the Trustees in office. Within three months of such appointment, the Trustees shall cause notice of such appointment to be mailed to each Shareholder at his address as recorded on the books of the Trust. An appointment of a Trustee may be mailed by the Trustees then in office and notice thereof mailed to Shareholders as aforesaid in anticipation of a vacancy to occur by reason of retirement, resignation or increase in number of Trustees effective at a later date, provided that said appointment shall become effective only at or after the effective date of said retirement, resignation or increase in number of Trustees. As soon as any Trustee so appointed shall have accepted this Trust, the trust estate shall vest in the new Trustee or Trustees, together with the continuing Trustees, without any further act or conveyance, and he shall be deemed a Trustee hereunder. Any appointment authorized by this Section 4 is subject to the provisions of Section 16(a) of the 1940 Act.

 

Section 5. Temporary Absence of Trustee.

 

Any Trustee may, by power of attorney, delegate his power for a period not exceeding six months at any one time to any other Trustee or Trustees, provided that in no case shall less than two of the Trustees personally exercise the other power hereunder except as herein otherwise expressly provided.

 

Section 6. Number of Trustees.

 

The number of Trustees, not less than three (3) nor more than twenty (20) serving hereunder at any time, shall be determined by the Trustees themselves.

 

Whenever a vacancy in the Board of Trustees shall occur, until such vacancy is filled or while any Trustee is physically or mentally incapacitated, the other Trustees shall have all the powers hereunder and the certificate signed by a majority of the other Trustees of such vacancy, absence or incapacity, shall be conclusive, provided, however, that no vacancy which reduces the number of Trustees below three (3) shall remain unfilled for a period longer than six calendar months.

 

Section 7. Effect of Death, Resignation, etc. of a Trustee.

 

The death, resignation, retirement, removal, or mental or physical incapacity of the Trustees, or any one of them, shall not operate to annul the Trust or to revoke any existing agency created pursuant to the terms of this Declaration of Trust.

 

Section 8. Ownership of Assets.

 

The assets belonging to each Series or Class shall be held separate and apart from any assets now or hereafter held in any capacity other than as Trustee hereunder by the Trustees or any successor Trustee. All of the assets belonging to each Series or Class or owned by the Trust shall at all times be considered as vested in the Trustees. No Shareholder shall be deemed to have a severable ownership interest in any individual asset belonging to any Series or Class or owned by the Trust or any right of partition or possession thereof, but each Shareholder shall have a proportionate undivided beneficial interest in a Series or Class.

 

ARTICLE V

POWERS OF THE TRUSTEES

 

Section 1. Powers.

 

The Trustees in all instances shall act as principals, and are and shall be free from the control of the Shareholders. The Trustees shall have full power and authority to do any and all acts and to make and execute any and all contracts and instruments that they may consider necessary or appropriate in connection with the management of the Trust or a Series or Class. The Trustees shall not be bound or limited by present or future laws or customs in regard to trust investments, but shall have full authority and power to make any and all investments which they, in their uncontrolled discretion, shall deem proper to accomplish the purpose of this Trust. Without limiting the foregoing, the Trustees shall have the following specific powers and authority, subject to any applicable limitation in this Declaration of Trust or in the By-Laws of the Trust:

 

(a) To buy, and invest funds in their hands in securities including, but not limited to, common stocks, preferred stocks, bonds, debentures, warrants and rights to purchase securities, certificates of beneficial interest, money market instruments, notes or other evidences of indebtedness issued by any corporation, trust or association, domestic or foreign, or issued or guaranteed by the United States of America or any agency or instrumentality thereof, by the government of any foreign country, by any State of the United States, or by any political subdivision or agency or instrumentality of any State or foreign country, or in “when-issued” or “delayed-delivery” contracts for any such securities, or in any repurchase agreement (agreements under which the seller agrees at the time of sale to repurchase the security at an agreed time and price), or to retain assets belonging to each and every Series or Class in cash, and from time to time to change the investments of the assets belonging to each Series or Class;

 

(b) To adopt By-Laws of the Trust not inconsistent with the Declaration of Trust providing for the conduct of the business of the Trust and to amend and repeal them to the extent that they do not reserve that right to the Shareholders;

 

(c) To elect and remove such officers of the Trust and appoint and terminate such agents of the Trust as they consider appropriate;

 

(d) To appoint or otherwise engage a bank or trust company as custodian of any assets belonging to any Series or Class subject to any conditions set forth in this Declaration of Trust or in the By-Laws;

 

(e) To appoint or otherwise engage transfer agents, dividend disbursing agents, Shareholder servicing agents, investment advisers, sub-investment advisers, principal underwriters, administrative service agents, and such other agents as the Trustees may from time to time appoint or otherwise engage;

 

(f) To provide for the distribution of any Shares of any Series or Class either through a principal underwriter in the manner hereinafter provided for or by the Trust itself, or both;

 

(g) To set record dates in the manner hereinafter provided for;

 

(h) To delegate such authority as they consider desirable to a committee or committees composed of Trustees, including without limitation, an Executive Committee, or to any officers of the Trust and to any agent, custodian or underwriter;

 

(i) To sell or exchange any or all of the assets belonging to one or more Series or Classes, subject to the provisions of Article XII, Section 4(b) hereof;

 

(j) To vote or give assent, or exercise any rights of ownership, with respect to stock or other securities or property; and to execute and deliver powers of attorney to such person or persons as the Trustees shall deem proper, granting to such person or persons such power and discretion with relation to securities or property as the Trustees shall deem proper;

 

(k) To exercise powers and rights of subscription or otherwise which in any manner arise out of ownership of securities;

 

(l) To hold any security or property in a form not indicating any trust, whether in bearer, unregistered or other negotiable form; or either in its own name or in the name of a custodian or a nominee or nominees, subject in either case to proper safeguards according to the usual practice of Massachusetts trust companies or investment companies;

 

(m) To consent to or participate in any plan for the reorganization, consolidation or merger of any corporation or concern, any security of which belongs to any Series or Class; to consent to any contract, lease, mortgage, purchase, or sale of property by such corporation or concern, and to pay calls or subscriptions with respect to any security which belongs to any Series or Class;

 

(n) To engage in and to prosecute, compound, compromise, abandon, or adjust, by arbitration, or otherwise, any actions, suits, proceedings, disputes, claims, demands, and things relating to the Trust, and out of the assets belonging to any Series or Class to pay, or to satisfy, any debts, claims or expenses incurred in connection therewith, including those of litigation, upon any evidence that the Trustees may deem sufficient (such powers shall include without limitation any actions, suits, proceedings, disputes, claims, demands and things relating tot he Trust wherein any of the Trustees may be named individually and the subject matter of which arises by reason of business for or on behalf of the Trust);

 

(o) To make distributions of income and of capital gains to Shareholders;

 

(p) To borrow money but only as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes and then (a) only in amounts not in excess of 5% of the value of its total assets or (b) in any amount up to one-third of the value of its total assets, including the amount borrowed, or (c) by entering into reverse repurchase agreements in amounts not in excess of 20% of its total assets, in order to meet redemption requests without immediately selling any order to meet redemption requests without immediately selling any portfolio securities. The Trustees shall not pledge, mortgage or hypothecate the assets of the Trust, except in connection with any borrowing described herein and in amounts not in excess of the lesser of the dollar amounts borrowed of 10% of the value of the Trust’s total assets at the time of such borrowing;

 

(q) From time to time to issue and sell the Shares of any Series or Class either for cash or for property whenever and in such amounts as the Trustees may deem desirable, but subject to the limitation set forth in Section 3 of Article III;

 

(r) To purchase insurance of any kind, including, without limitation, insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust, or is or was serving at the request of the Trust as a Trustee, director, officer, agent or employee of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against him and incurred by him in any such capacity or arising out of his status as such.

 

No one dealing with the Trustees shall be under any obligation to make any inquiry concerning the authority of the Trustees, or to see to the application of any payments made or property transferred to the Trustees or upon their order.

 

The Trustees shall have all of the powers set forth in this Section 1 with respect to all assets and liabilities of each Series and Class.

 

Section 2. Principal Transactions.

 

The Trustees shall not cause the Trust on behalf of any Series or Class to buy any securities (other than Shares) from or sell any securities (other than Shares) from or sell any securities (other than Shares) to, or lend any assets belonging to any Series or Class to, any Trustee or officer or employee of the Trust or any firm of which any such Trustee or officer is a member acting as principal unless permitted by the 1940 Act, but the Trust may employ any such other party or any such person or firm or company in which any such person is an interested person in any capacity not prohibited by the 1940 Act.

 

Section 3. Trustees and Officers as Shareholders.

 

Any Trustee, officer or other agent of the Trust or any Series or Class may acquire, own and dispose of Shares of any Series or Class to the same extent as if he were not a Trustee, officer or agent; and the Trustees may issue and sell or cause to be issued or sold Shares of any Series or Class to and buy such Shares from any such person or any firm or company in which he is an interested person subject only to the general limitations herein contained as to the sale and purchase of such Shares; and all subject to any restrictions which may be contained in the By-Laws.

 

Section 4. Parties to Contract.

 

The Trustees may enter into any contract of the character described in Article VII or in Article IX hereof or any other capacity not prohibited by the 1940 Act with any corporation, firm, trust or association, although one or more of the Shareholders, Trustees, officers, employees or agents of the Trust or any Series or Class or their affiliates may be an officer, director, Trustee, shareholder or interested person of such other party to the contract, and no such contract shall be invalidated or rendered voidable by reason of the existence of any such relationship, nor shall any person holding such relationship be liable merely by reason of such relationship for any loss or expense to the Trust or any Series or Class under or by reason of said contract or accountable for any profit realized directly or indirectly therefrom, in the absence of actual fraud. The same person (including a firm, corporation, trust or association) may be the other party to contracts entered into pursuant to Article VII or Article IX or any other capacity deemed legal under the 1940 Act, and any individual may be financially interested or otherwise an interested person of persons who are parties to any or all of the contracts mentioned in this Section 4.

 

ARTICLE VI

TRUSTEES’ EXPENSES AND COMPENSATION

 

Section 1. Trustee Reimbursement.

 

The Trustees shall be reimbursed from the assets belonging to each particular Series or Class for all of their expenses as such expenses are allocated to and among any one or more of the Series or Classes pursuant to Article III, Section 5(b), including, without limitation, expenses of organizing the Trust or any Series or Class and continuing its or their existence; fees and expenses of Trustees and officers of the Trust; fees for investment advisory services, administrative services and principal underwriting services provided for in Article VII, Sections 1, 2, and 3; fees and expenses of preparing and printing Registration Statements under the Securities Act of 1933 and the 1940 Act and any amendments thereto; expenses of registering and qualifying the Trust and any Series or Class and the Shares of any Series or Class under federal and state laws and regulations; expenses of preparing, printing and distributing prospectuses and any amendments thereof sent to Shareholders, underwriters, broker-dealers and to investors who may be considering the purchase of Shares; expenses of registering, licensing or other authorization of the Trust or any Series or Class as a broker-dealer and of its or their officers as agents and salesmen under federal and state laws and regulations; interest expenses, taxes, fees and commissions of every kind; expenses of issue (including cost of share certificates), purchase, repurchase and redemption of Shares, including expenses attributable to a program of periodic issue; charges and expenses of custodians, transfer agents, dividend disbursing agents, Shareholder servicing agents and registrars; printing and mailing costs; auditing, accounting and legal expenses; reports to Shareholders and governmental officers and commissions; expenses of meetings of Shareholders and proxy solicitations therefor; insurance expenses; association membership dues and nonrecurring items as may arise, including all losses and liabilities by them incurred in administering the Trust and any Series or Class, including expenses incurred in connection with litigation, proceedings and claims and the obligations of the Trust under Article XI hereof and the By-Laws to indemnify its Trustees, officers, employees, Shareholders and agents, and any contract obligation to indemnify principal underwriters under Section 3 of Article VII; and for the payment of such expenses, disbursements, losses and liabilities, the Trustees shall have a lien on the assets belonging to each Series or Class prior to any rights or interests of the Shareholders of any Series or Class. This section shall not preclude the Trust from directly paying any of the aforementioned fees and expenses.

 

Section 2. Trustee Compensation.

 

The Trustees shall be entitled to compensation from the Trust from the assets belonging to any Series or Class for their respective services as Trustees, to be determined from time to time by vote of the Trustees, and the Trustees shall also determine the compensation of all officers, consultants and agents whom they may elect or appoint. The Trust may pay out of the assets belonging to any Series or Class any Trustee or any corporation, firm, trust or other entity of which a Trustee is an interested person for services rendered in any capacity not prohibited by the 1940 Act, and such payments shall not be deemed compensation for services as a Trustee under the first sentence of this Section 2 of Article VI.

 

ARTICLE VII

INVESTMENT ADVISER, ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,

PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITER AND TRANSFER AGENT

 

Section 1. Investment Adviser.

 

Subject to a Majority Shareholder Vote by the relevant Series or Class, the Trustees may in their discretion from time to time enter into an investment advisory contract whereby the other party to such contract shall undertake to furnish the Trustees investment advisory services for such Series or Class upon such terms and conditions and for such compensation as the Trustees may in their discretion determine. Subject to a Majority Shareholder Vote by the relevant Series or Class, the investment adviser may enter into a sub-investment advisory contract to receive investment advice and/or statistical and factual information from the sub-investment adviser for such Series or Class upon such terms and conditions and for such compensation as the Trustees may, in their discretion, agree to. Notwithstanding any provisions of this Declaration of Trust, the Trustees may authorize the investment adviser or sub-investment adviser of any person furnishing administrative personnel and Services as set forth in Article VII, Section 2 (subject to such general or specific instructions as the Trustees may from time to time adopt) to effect purchases, sales or exchanges of portfolio securities belonging to a Series or Class on behalf of the Trustees or may authorize any officer or Trustee to effect such purchases, sales, or exchanges pursuant to recommendations of the investment adviser (and all without further action by the Trustees). Any such purchases, sales and exchanges shall be deemed to have been authorized by the Trustees. The Trustees may also authorize the investment adviser to determine what firms shall be employed to effect transactions in securities for the account of a Series or Class and to determine what firms shall participate in any such transactions or shall share in commissions or fees charged in connection with such transactions.

 

Section 2. Administrative Services.

 

The Trustees may in their discretion from time to time contract for administrative personnel and services whereby the other party shall agree to provide the Trustees administrative personnel and services to operate the Trust or a Series or Class on a daily basis, on such terms and conditions as the Trustees may in their discretion determine. Such services may be provided by one or more entities.

 

Section 3. Principal Underwriter.

 

The Trustees may in their discretion from time to time enter into an exclusive or nonexclusive contract or contracts providing for the sale of the Shares of a Series or Class to net such Series or Class not less than the amount provided in Article III, Section 3 hereof, whereby a Series or Class may either agree to sell the Shares to the other party to the contract or appoint such other party its sales terms and conditions (including indemnification of principal underwriters allowable under applicable law and regulation) as the Trustees may in their discretion determine not inconsistent with the provisions of this Article VII; and such contract may also provide for the repurchase or sale of Shares of a Series or Class by such other party as principal or as agent of the Trust and may provide that the other party may maintain a market for shares of a Series or Class.

 

Section 4. Transfer Agent.

 

The Trustees may in their discretion from time to time enter into transfer agency and shareholder services contracts whereby the other party shall undertake to furnish transfer agency and shareholder services. The contracts shall be on such terms and conditions as the Trustees may in their discretion determine not inconsistent with the provisions of this Declaration of Trust or of the By-Laws. Such services may be provided by one or more entities.

 

Section 5. Provisions and Amendments.

 

Any contract entered into pursuant to Sections 1 or 3 if this Article VII shall be consistent with the subject to the requirements of Section 15 of the 1940 Act (including any amendments thereof or other applicable Act of Congress hereafter enacted) with respect to its continuance in effect, its termination and the method of authorization and approval of such contract or renewal thereof.

 

ARTICLE VIII

SHAREHOLDERS’ VOTING POWERS AND MEETINGS

 

Section 1. Voting Powers.

 

Subject to the provisions set forth in Article III, Section 5(d), the Shareholders shall have power to vote, (i) for the election of Trustees as provided in Article IV, Section 2; (ii) for the removal of Trustees as provided in Article IV, Section 3(d); (iii) with respect to any investment adviser or sub-investment adviser as provided in Article VII, Section 1; (iv) with respect to the amendment of this Declaration of Trust as provided in Article XII, Section 7; (v) to the same extent as the shareholders of a Massachusetts business corporation as to whether or not a court action, proceeding or claim should be brought or maintained derivatively or as a class action on behalf of the Trust or the Shareholders; and (vi) with respect to such additional matters relating to the Trust as may be required by law, by this Declaration of Trust, or By-Laws of the Trust or any regulation of the Trust or the Commission or any State, or as the Trustees may consider desirable. Each whole Share shall be entitled to one vote as to any matter on which it is entitled to vote, and each fractional Share shall be entitled to a proportionate fractional vote. There shall be no cumulative voting in the election of Trustees. Shares may be voted in person or by proxy. Until Shares of a Series or Class are issued, the Trustees may exercise all rights. Shareholders of such Series or Class with respect to matters affecting such Series or Class, and may take any action with respect to the Trust or such Series or Class required or permitted by law, this Declaration of Trust or any By-Laws of the Trust to be taken by Shareholders.

 

Section 2. Meetings.

 

A Shareholders meeting shall be held as specified in Section 2 of Article IV at the principal office of the Trust or such other place as the Trustees may designate. Special meetings of the Shareholders may be called by the Trustees or the Chief Executive Officer of the Trust and shall be called by the Trustees upon the written request of Shareholders owning at least one-tenth of the outstanding Shares of all Series and Classes entitled to vote. Shareholders shall be entitled to at least fifteen days’ notice of any meeting.

 

Section 3. Quorum and Required Vote.

 

Except as otherwise provided by law, to constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business at any meeting of Shareholders there must be present, in person or by proxy, holders of one-fourth of the total number of outstanding Shares of all Series and Classes entitled to vote at such meeting. When any one or more Series or Classes is entitled to vote as a single Series or Class, one-fourth of the shares of each such Series or Class entitled to vote shall constitute a quorum at a Shareholder’s meeting of that Series or Class. If a quorum shall not be present for the purpose of any vote that may properly come before the meeting, the Shares present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote at such meeting on such matter may, by plurality vote, adjourn the meeting from time to time to such place and time without further notice than by announcement to be given at the meeting until a quorum entitled to vote on such matter shall be present, where upon any such matter may be voted upon at the meeting as though held when originally convened. Subject to any applicable requirement of law or of this Declaration of Trust or the By-Laws, a plurality of the votes cast shall elect a Trustee, and all other matters shall be decided by a majority of the votes cast and entitled to vote thereon.

 

Section 4. Additional Provisions.

 

The By-Laws may include further provisions for Shareholders’ votes and meetings and related matters.

 

ARTICLE IX

CUSTODIAN

 

Section 1. Appointment and Duties.

 

The Trustees shall appoint or otherwise engage a bank or trust company having an aggregate capital, surplus and undivided profits (as shown in its last published report) of at least two million dollars ($2,000,000) as custodian with authority as its agent, but subject to such restrictions, limitations and other requirements, if any, as may be contained in the By-Laws of the Trust:

 

(1) To receive and hold the securities owned by the Trust or any Series or Class and deliver the same upon written order;

 

(2) To receive and receipt for any moneys due to the Trust or any Series or Class and deposit the same in its own banking department or elsewhere as the Trustees may direct; and

 

(3) To disburse such funds upon order or vouchers;

 

(4) To keep the books and accounts of the Trust or any Series or Class and furnish clerical and accounting services;

 

(5) To compute, if authorized to do so by the Trustees, the Accumulated Net Income of the Trust or any Series or Class and the net asset value of the Shares in accordance with the provisions hereof;

 

all upon such basis of compensation as may be agreed upon between the Trustees and the custodian. If so directed by a Majority Shareholder Vote, the custodian shall deliver and pay over all property of the Trust or any Series held by it as specified in such vote.

 

The Trustees may also authorize the custodian to employ one or more sub-custodians from time to time to perform such of the acts and services of the custodian upon such terms and conditions, as may be agreed upon between the custodian and such sub-custodian and approved by the Trustees, provided that in every case such sub-custodian shall be a bank or trust company organized under the laws of the United States or one of the states thereof and having an aggregate capital, surplus and undivided profits (as shown in its last published report) of at least two million dollars ($2,000,000).

 

Section 2. Central Certificate System.

 

Subject to such rules, regulations and orders as the Commission may adopt, the Trustees may direct the custodian to deposit all or any part of the securities owned by the Trust or any Series in a system for the central handling of securities established by a national securities exchange or a national securities association registered with the Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or such other person as may be permitted by the Commission or otherwise in accordance with the 1940 Act, pursuant to which system all securities of any particular class or series of any issuer deposited within the system are treated as fungible and may be transferred or pledged by bookkeeping entry without physical delivery of such securities, provided that all such deposits shall be subject to withdrawal only upon the order of the custodian at the discretion of the Trustees.

 

ARTICLE X

DISTRIBUTIONS AND REDEMPTIONS

 

Section 1. Distributions.

 

(a) The Trustees may, on each day Accumulated Net Income of any Series or Class is determined and is positive, declare and pay such Accumulated Net Income as dividends to the Shareholders of any Series or Class, and the amount of such dividends and the payment of them shall be wholly in the discretion of the Trustees. Such dividends may be accrued and automatically reinvested in additional Shares (or fractions thereof) of the relevant Series or Class or paid in cash or additional Shares of such Series or Class, all upon such terms and conditions as the Trustees may prescribe.

 

(b) The Trustees may distribute in respect of any fiscal year as dividends and as capital gains distributions, respectively, amounts sufficient to enable any Series or Class to qualify as a regulated investment company to avoid any liability for federal income taxes in respect of that year.

 

(c) The decision of the Trustees as to what constitutes income and what constitutes principal shall be final, and except as specifically provided herein the decision of the Trustees as to what expenses and charges of any Series or Class shall be charged against principal and what against the income shall be final. Any income not distributed in any year may be permitted to accumulate and as long as not distributed may be invested from time to time in the same manner as the principal funds of any Series or Class.

 

(d) The Trustees shall have power, to the fullest extent permitted by the laws of Massachusetts, at any time, or from time to time, to declare and cause to be paid dividends on any Series or Class, which dividends, at the election of the Trustees, may be accrued, automatically reinvested in additional Shares (or fractions thereof) of the relevant Series or Class or paid in cash or additional Shares of the relevant Series or Class, all upon such terms and conditions as the Trustees may prescribe.

 

(e) Anything in this instrument to the contrary notwithstanding, the Trustees may at any time declare and distribute a dividend consisting of Shares of any Series or Class of the Trust.

 

(f) All dividends and distributions on Shares of a particular Series or Class shall be distributed pro rata to the holders of that Series or Class in proportion to the number of Shares of that Series or Class held by such holders and recorded on the books of the Trust or its transfer agent at the date and time of record established for that payment.

 

Section 2. Redemptions and Repurchases.

 

(a) In case any Shareholder of record of any Series or Class at any time desires to dispose of Shares of such Series or Class recorded in his name, he may deposit a written request (or such other form of request as the Trustees may from time to time authorize) requesting that the Trust purchase his Shares, together with such other instruments or authorizations to effect the transfer as the Trustees may from time to time require, at the office of the Transfer Agent, and the Trust shall purchase his Shares out of assets belonging to such Series or Class. The purchase price shall be the net asset value of his shares reduced by any redemption charge as the Trustees from time to time may determine.

 

Payment for such Shares shall be made by the Trust to the Shareholder of record within that time period required under the 1940 Act after the request (and, if required, such other instruments or authorizations or transfer) is deposited, subject to the right of the Trustees to postpone the date of payment pursuant to Section 5 of this Article X, the right of redemption pursuant to Section 5 of this Article X. If the redemption is postponed beyond the date on which it would normally occur by reason of a declaration by the Trustees suspending the right of redemption pursuant to Section 5 of this Article X, the right of the Shareholder to have his Shares purchased by the Trust shall be similarly suspended, and he may withdraw his request (or such other instruments or authorizations of transfer) from deposit if he so elects; or, if he does not so elect, the purchase price shall be the net asset value of his Shares determined next after termination of such suspension (reduced by any redemption charge), and payment therefor shall be made within the time period required under the 1940 Act.

 

(b) The Trust may purchase Shares of a Series or Class by agreement with the owner thereof at a purchase price not exceeding the net asset value per Share (reduced by any redemption charge) determined (1) next after the purchase or contract of purchase is made or (2) at some later time.

 

(c) The Trust may pay the purchase price (reduced by any redemption charge) in whole or in part by a distribution in kind of securities from the portfolio of the relevant Series or Class, taking such securities at the same value employed in determining net asset value, and selecting the securities in such manner as the Trustees may deem fair and equitable.

 

Section 3. Determination of Accumulated Net Income.

 

The Accumulated Net Income of any Series or Class of the Trust shall be determined by or on behalf of the Trustees at such time or times as the Trustees shall in their discretion determine. Such determination shall be made in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and practices and may include realized and/or unrealized gains from the sale or other deposition of securities or other property of the relevant Series. The power and duty to determine Accumulated Net Income for any Series or Class may be delegated by the Trustees from time to time to one or more of the Trustees or officers of the Trust, to the other party to any contract entered into pursuant to Section 1 or 2 of Article VII, or to the custodian or to a transfer agent.

 

Section 4. Net Asset Value of Shares.

 

The net asset value of each Share of a Series or Class outstanding shall be determined at such time or times as may be determined by or on behalf of the Trustees. The power and duty to determine net asset value may be delegated by the Trustees from time to time to one or more of the Trustees or officers of the Trust, to the other party to any contract entered into pursuant to Section 1 or 2 of Article VII or to the custodian or to a transfer agent or other person designated by the Trustees.

 

The net asset value of each Share of a Series or Class as of any particular time shall be the quotient (adjusted to the nearer cent) obtained by dividing the value, as of such time, of the net assets belonging to such Series or Class (i.e., the value of the assets belonging to such Series or Class less the liabilities belonging to such Series or Class exclusive of capital and surplus) by the total number of Shares outstanding of the Series or Class at such time in accordance with the requirements of the 1940 Act and applicable provisions of the By-Laws of the Trust in conformity with generally accepted accounting practices and principles.

 

The Trustees may declare a suspension of the determination of net asset value for the whole or any part of any period in accordance with the 1940 Act.

 

Section 5. Suspension of the Right of Redemption.

 

The Trustees may declare a suspension of the right or redemption or postpone the date of payment for the whole or any part of the any period in accordance with the 1940 Act.

 

Section 6. Trust’s Right to Redeem Shares.

 

The Trust shall have the right to cause the redemption of Shares of any Series or Class in any Shareholder’s account for their then current net asset value and promptly make payment to the shareholder (which payment may be reduced by any applicable redemption charge), if at any time the total investment in the account does not have a minimum dollar value determined from time to time by the Trustees in their sole discretion. Shares of any Series or Class of the Trust are redeemable at the option of the Trust if, in the opinion of the Trustees, ownership of such Shares has or may become concentrated to an extent which would cause the Trust or any Series to be a personal holding company within the meaning of the Federal Internal Revenue Code (and thereby disqualified under Sub-chapter M of said Code); in such circumstances the Trust may compel the redemption of Shares of such Series or Class, reject any order for the purchase of such Shares or refuse to give effect to the transfer of such Shares.

 

ARTICLE XI

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION

 

Section 1. Limitation of Personal Liability and Indemnification of Shareholders.

 

The Trustees, officers, employees or agents of the Trust shall have no power to bind any Shareholder of any Series or Class personally or to call upon such Shareholder for the payment of any sum of money or assessment whatsoever, other than such as the Shareholder may at any time agree to pay by way of subscription to any Shares or otherwise.

 

No Shareholder or former Shareholder of any Series or Class shall be liable solely by reason of his being or having been a Shareholder for any debt, claim, action, demand, suit, proceeding, judgment, decree, liability or obligation of any kind, against, or with respect to the Trust or any Series or Class arising out of any action taken or omitted for or on behalf of the Trust or such Series or Class, and the Trust or such Series or Class shall be solely liable therefor and resort shall be had solely to the property of the relevant Series or Class of the Trust for the payment or performance thereof.

 

Each Shareholder or former Shareholder of any Series or Class (or their heirs, executors, administrators or other legal representatives or, in case of a corporate entity, its corporate or general successor) shall be entitled to indemnity and reimbursement out of Trust property to the full extent of such liability and the costs of any litigation or other proceedings in which such liability shall have been determined, including, without limitation, the fees and disbursements of counsel if, contrary to the provisions hereof, such Shareholder or former Shareholder of such Series or Class shall be held to be personally liable. Such indemnification and reimbursement shall come exclusively from the assets of the relevant Series or Class.

 

The Trust shall, upon request by a Shareholder or former Shareholder, assume the defense of any claim made against any Shareholder for any act or obligation of the Trust or any Series or Class and satisfy any judgment thereon.

 

Section 2. Limitation of Personal Liability of Trustees, Officers, Employees or Agents of the Trust.

 

No Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust shall have the power to bind any other Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust personally. The Trustees, officers, employees or agents of the Trust incurring any debts, liabilities or obligations, or in taking or omitting any other actions for or in connection with the Trust are, and each shall be deemed to be, acting as Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust and not in his own individual capacity.

 

Provided they have acted under the belief that their actions are in the best interest of the Trust, the Trustees and officers shall not be responsible for or liable in any event for neglect or wrongdoing by them or any officer, agent, employee, investment adviser or principal underwriter of the Trust or of any entity providing administrative services to the Trust, but nothing herein contained shall protect any Trustee or officer against any liability to which he would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office.

 

Section 3. Express Exculpatory Clauses and Instruments.

 

The Trustees shall use every reasonable means to assure that all persons having dealings with the Trust or any Series or Class shall be informed that the property of the Shareholders and the Trustees, officers, employees and agents of the Trust or any Series or Class shall not be subject to claims against or obligations of the Trust or any other Series or Class to any extent whatsoever. The Trustees shall cause to be inserted in any written agreement, undertaking or obligation made or issued on behalf of the Trust or any Series or Class (including certificates for Shares of any Series or Class) an appropriate reference to this Declaration, providing that neither the Shareholder, the Trustees, the officers, the employees nor any agent of the Trust or any Series or Class shall be liable thereunder, and that the other parties to such instrument shall look solely to the assets belonging to the relevant Series or Class for the payment of any claim thereunder or for the performance thereof; but the omission of such provisions from any such instrument shall not render any Shareholder, Trustee, officer, employee or agent liable, nor shall the Trustee, or any officer, agent or employee of the Trust or any Series or Class be liable to anyone for such omission. If, notwithstanding this provision, any Shareholder, Trustee, officer, employee or agent shall be held liable to any other person by reason of the omission of such provision form any such agreement, undertaking or obligation, the Shareholder, Trustee, officer, employee or agent shall be entitled to indemnity and reimbursement out of the Trust property, as provided in Article XI.

 

Section 4. Indemnification of Trustees, Officers, Employees and Agents.

 

(a)       Every person who is or has been a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust or of any Series of the Trust and persons who serve at the Trust’s request as director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise shall be indemnified by the Trust or the relevant Series to the fullest extent permitted by law against liability and against all expenses reasonably incurred or paid by him in connection with any debt, claim, action, demand, suit, proceeding, judgment, decree, liability or obligation of any kind in which he becomes involved as a party or otherwise by virtue of his being or having been a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust or of such Series or of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise at the request of the Trust or of such Series and against amounts paid or incurred by him in the settlement thereof.

 

(b)       The words “claim,” “action,” “suit” or “proceeding” shall apply to all claims, actions, suits or proceedings (civil, criminal, administrative, legislative, investigative or other, including appeals), actual or threatened, and the words “liability” and “expenses” shall include, without limitation, attorneys’ fees, costs, judgments, amounts paid in settlement, fines, penalties and other liabilities.

 

(c)       No indemnification shall be provided hereunder to a Trustee, officer, employee or agent against any liability to the Trust or any Series of the Trust or to its Shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office.

 

(d)       The rights of indemnification herein provided may be insured against by policies maintained by the Trust or any Series, shall be severable, shall not affect any other rights to which any Trustee, officer, employee or agent may now or hereafter be entitled, shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be such Trustee, officer, employee, or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.

 

(e)       Expenses in connection with the preparation and presentation of a defense to any claim, action, suit or proceeding of the character described in paragraph (a) of this Section 4 may be paid by the Trust or any Series prior to final disposition thereof upon receipt of any undertaking by or on behalf of the Trustee, officer, employee or agent secured by a surety bond or other suitable insurance that such amount will be paid over by him to the Trust or any Series if it is ultimately determined that he is not entitled to indemnification under this Section 4.

 

ARTICLE XII

MISCELLANEOUS

 

Section 1. Trust is not a Partnership.

 

It is hereby expressly declared that a trust and not a partnership is created hereby.

 

Section 2. Trustee Action Binding, Expert Advice, No Bond or Surety.

 

The exercise by the Trustees of their powers and discretions hereunder in good faith and with reasonable care under the circumstances then prevailing, shall be binding upon everyone interested. Subject to the provisions of Article XI, the Trustees shall not be liable for errors of judgment or mistakes of fact or law. The Trustees may take advice of counsel or other experts with respect to the meaning and operation of this Declaration of Trust, and subject to the provisions of Article XI, shall be under no liability for any act or omission in accordance with such advice or for failing to follow such advice. The Trustees shall not be required to give any bond as such, nor any surety if a bond is required.

 

Section 3. Establishment of Record Dates.

 

The Trustees may close the Share transfer books of the Trust maintained with respect to any Series or Class for a period not exceeding sixty (60) days preceding the date of any meeting of Shareholders of the Trust or any Series or Class, or the date for the payment of any dividend or the making of any distribution to Shareholders, or the date for the allotment of rights, or the date when any change or conversion or exchange of Shares of any Series or Class shall go into effect; or in lieu of closing the Share transfer books as aforesaid, the Trustees may fix in advance a date, not exceeding sixty (60) days preceding the date of any meeting of Shareholders of the Trust or any Series or Class, or the date for the payment of any dividend or the making of any distribution to Shareholders of any Series or Class, or the date for the allotment of rights, or the date when any change or conversion or exchange of Shares of any Series or Class shall go into effect, or the last day on which the consent or dissent of Shareholders of any Series or Class may be effectively expressed for any purpose, as a record date for the determination of the Shareholders entitled to notice of, and, to vote at, any such meeting and any adjournment thereof, or entitled to receive payment of any such dividend or distribution, or to any such allotment of rights, or to exercise the rights in respect of any such change, conversion or exchange of shares, or to exercise the right to give such consent or dissent, and in such case such Shareholders and only such Shareholders as shall be Shareholders of record on the date so fixed shall be entitled to such notice of, and to vote at, such meeting, or to receive payment of such dividend or distribution, or to receive such allotment or rights, or to exercise such rights, as the case may be, notwithstanding, after such date fixed aforesaid, any transfer of any Shares on the books of the Trust maintained with respect to any Series or Class. Nothing in the foregoing sentence shall be construed as precluding the Trustees from setting different record dates for different Series or Classes.

 

 
 

Section 4. Termination of Trust.

 

(a) This Trust shall continue without limitation of time but subject to the provisions of paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) of this Section 4.

 

(b) The Trustees may, by majority action, with the approval of the holders of more than fifty percent of the outstanding Shares of each Series or Class entitled to vote and voting separately by Series or Class, sell and convey the assets of the Trust or any Series or Class to another trust or corporation. Upon making provision for the payment of all liabilities, by assumption or otherwise, the Trustees shall distribute the remaining proceeds belonging to each Series or Class ratably among the holders of the Shares of that Series or Class then outstanding.

 

(c) The Trustees may at any time sell and convert into money all the assets of the Trust, or a class or Series of the Trust, without shareholder approval, unless otherwise required by applicable law. Upon making provision for the payment of all outstanding obligations, taxes and other liabilities, accrued or contingent, belonging to the Trust, the Trustees shall distribute the remaining assets of the Trust ratably among the holders of the outstanding Shares having an interest in such assets.

 

(d) Upon completion of the distribution of the remaining proceeds of the remaining assets as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c), the Trust or the applicable Series or Class shall terminate and the Trustees shall be discharged of any and all further liabilities and duties hereunder or with respect thereto and the right, title and interest of all parties shall be canceled and discharged.

 

Section 5. Offices of the Trust, Filing of Copies, Headings, Counterparts.

 

The Trust shall maintain a usual place of business in Massachusetts, which shall be determined by the Trustees, and shall continue to maintain an office at such address unless changed by the Trustees to another location in Massachusetts. As amended by Amd. #6 - 5/17/00. The Trust may maintain other offices as the Trustees may from time to time determine. The original or a copy of this instrument and of each declaration of trust supplemental hereto shall be kept at the office of the Trust where it may be inspected by any Shareholder. A copy of this instrument and of each supplemental declaration of trust shall be filed by the Trustees with the Massachusetts Secretary of State and the Boston City Clerk, as well as any other governmental office where such filing may from time to time be required. Anyone dealing with the Trust may relay on a certificate by an officer of the Trust as to whether or not any such supplemental declaration of trust has been made and as to any matters in connection with the Trust hereunder, and with the same effect as if it were the original, may rely on a copy certified by an officer of the Trust to be a copy of this instrument or of any such supplemental declaration of trust. In this instrument or in any such supplemental declaration of trust. In this instrument or in any such supplemental declaration of trust, references to this instrument, and all expressions like “herein,” “hereof” and “hereunder,” shall be deemed to refer to this instrument as amended or affected by any such supplemental declaration of trust. Headings are placed herein for convenience of reference only and in case of any conflict, the text of this instrument, rather than the headings, shall control. This instrument may be executed in any number of counterparts each of which shall be deemed an original.

 

Section 6. Applicable Law.

 

The Trust set forth in this instrument is created under and is to be governed by and construed and administered according to the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Trust shall be of the type commonly called a Massachusetts business trust, and without limiting the provisions hereof, the Trust may exercise all powers which are ordinarily exercised by such a trust.

 

 
 

Section 7. Amendments - - General.

 

Prior to the initial issuance of Shares pursuant to Section 3 of Article III, a majority of the Trustees then in office may amend or otherwise supplement this instrument by making a Declaration of Trust supplemental hereto, which thereafter shall form a part hereof. Subsequent to such initial issuance of Shares, amendments or supplements to this instrument may be authorized by a majority of the Trustees then in office and by a Majority Shareholder Vote of all Series and Classes then outstanding and entitled to vote thereon (except that any amendments or supplements changing the name of the Trust or pursuant to Section 8 hereunder may be made without shareholder approval), or by any larger vote which may be required by applicable law or this Declaration of Trust in any particular case, which amendment or supplement thereafter shall form a part hereof. Any such amendment or supplement (which may be in the form of a complete restatement) may be evidenced by either (i) a supplemental Declaration of Trust signed by at least a majority of the Trustees then in office or (ii) by a certificate of the President and Secretary of the Trust setting forth such amendment or supplement and certifying that such amendment or supplement has been duly authorized by the Trustees, and if required, by the shareholders. Copies of the supplemental Declaration of Trust or the certificate of the President and Secretary, as the case may be, shall be filed as specified in Section 5 of this Article XII.

 

Section 8. Amendments - - Series and Classes.

 

The established and designation of any series or class of Shares in addition to those established and designated in Section 5 of Article III hereof shall be effective upon the execution by a majority of the then Trustees of an amendment to this Declaration of Trust, taking the form of a complete restatement or otherwise, setting forth such establishment and designation and the relative rights and preferences of any such Series or Class, or as otherwise provided in such instrument.

 

Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Declaration of the Trust may be amended to:

 

(a) create one or more Series or Classes of Shares (in addition to any Series or Classes already existing or otherwise) with such to rights and preferences and such eligibility requirements for investment therein as the Trustees shall determine and reclassify any or all outstanding Shares as Shares of particular Series or Classes in accordance with such eligibility requirements;

 

(b) combine two or more Series or Classes of Shares into a single Series or Class on such terms and conditions as the Trustees shall determine;

 

(c) change or eliminate any eligibility requirements for investment in Shares of any Series or Class, including without limitation the power to provide for the issue of Shares of any Series or Class in connection with any merger or consolidation of the Trust with another trust or company or any acquisition by the Trust of part or all of the assets of another trust or company;

 

(d) change the designation of any Series or Class of Shares;

 

(e) change the method of allocating dividends among the various Series and Classes of Shares;

 

(f) allocate any specific assets or liabilities of the Trust or any specific items of income or expense of the Trust to one or more Series and Classes of Shares;

 

(g) specifically allocate assets to any or all Series or Classes of Shares or create one or more additional Series or Classes of Shares which are preferred over all other Series or Classes of Shares in respect of assets specifically allocated thereto or any dividends paid by the Trust with respect to any net income, however determined, earned from the investment and reinvestment of any assets so allocated or otherwise and provide for any special voting or other rights with respect to such Series or Classes.

 

Section 9. Use of Name.

 

The Trust acknowledges that Federated Investors has reserved the right to grant the non-exclusive use of the name “Federated” or any derivative thereof to any other investment company, investment company portfolio, investment adviser, distributor, or other business enterprise, and to withdraw from the Trust or owe or more Series or Classes any right to use of the name “Federated”.

 

The undersigned hereby certify that the above stated Amendment and Restatement is a true and correct Amendment and Restatement to the Declaration of Trust, as adopted by the Board of Trustees at a meeting held on the 17th day of November, 1998, and effective as of April 2, 1999.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this instrument the day and year first above written.

 

/s/ John F. Donahue   /s/ Peter E. Madden  
John F. Donahue   Peter E. Madden  
       
/s/ Thomas G. Bigley   /s/ Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.  
Thomas G. Bigley   Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.  
       
/s/ John T. Conroy, Jr.   /s/ John E. Murray, Jr.  
John T. Conroy, Jr.   John E Murray, Jr.  
       
/s/ John F. Cunningham   /s/ Marjorie P. Smuts  
John F. Cunningham   Marjorie P. Smuts  
       
/s/ Lawrence D. Ellis, M.D.   /s/ John S. Walsh  
Lawrence D. Ellis, M.D.   John S. Walsh  

 

 
 

The preceding Declaration of Trust is a clean copy incorporating all amendments. The following pages include the document as originally filed with the commonwealth of Massachusetts and each individual amendment that has been incorporated.

 
 

 

RESTATEMENT AND AMENDMENT #5

DECLARATION OF TRUST

 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

Dated: April 2, 1999

 

 

AMENDED AND RESTATED DECLARATION OF TRUST made April 2, 1999, by the undersigned, and by the holders of shares of beneficial interest to be issued hereunder as hereinafter provided.

 

WHEREAS, the Trustees now desire to amend and restate the Declaration of Trust to permit the Board of Trustees to liquidate assets of the Trust without seeking shareholder approval.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, the Trustees declare that all money and property contributed to the trust fund hereunder shall be held and managed under this Declaration of Trust IN TRUST as herein set froth below.

 

ARTICLE I

 

NAMES AND DEFINITIONS

 

Section 1. Name.

 

This Trust shall be known as the Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust.

 

Section 2. Definitions.

 

Wherever used herein, unless otherwise required by the context or specifically provided:

 

(a) The terms “Affiliated Person,” “Assignment,” “Commission,” “Interested Person,” “Majority Shareholder Vote” (the 67% or 50% requirement of Section 2(a) (42) of the 1940 Act, whichever may be applicable) and “Principal Underwriter” shall have the meanings given them in the 1940 Act, as amended from time to time;

 

(b) The “Trust” refers to the Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust.

 

(c) “Accumulated Net Income” means the accumulated net income of the Trust determined in the manner provided or authorized in Article X.

 

(d) “Class” refers to a class of Shares established and designated under or in accordance with the provisions of Article II;

 

(e) “Series” refers to a series of Shares established and designated under or in accordance with the provisions of Article III;

 

(f) “Series Company” refers to the form of a registered open-end investment company described in Section 18(f)(2) of the 1940 Act or in any successor statutory provisions;

 

(g) “Shareholder” means a record owner of Shares of any Series or Class;

 

(h) The “Trustees” refer to the individual Trustees in their capacity as Trustees hereunder of the Trust and their successor or successors for the time being in office as such Trustees;

 

(i) “Shares” means the equal proportionate units of interest into which the beneficial interest in the Trust shall be dividend form time to time, or if more than one Series or Class of Shares is authorized by the Trustees, the equal proportionate units into which each Series or Class of Shares shall be dividend from time to time and includes fractions of Shares as well as whole Shares; and

 

(j) The “1940 Act” refers to the Investment Company Act of 1940, and the Rules and Regulations thereunder, (including any exemptions granted thereunder) as amended from time to time.

 

ARTICLE II

PURPOSE OF TRUST

 

The purpose of this Trust is to provide investors a continuous source of managed investments by investing primarily in securities.

 

ARTICLE III

BENEFICIAL INTEREST

 

Section 1. Shares of Beneficial Interest.

 

The beneficial interest in the Trust shall at all times be dividend into transferable Shares, without par value. Subject to the provisions of Section 5 of this Article III, each Share shall have voting rights as provided in Article VIII hereof, and holders of the Shares of any Series shall be entitled to receive dividends, when and as declared with respect thereto in the manner provided in Article X, Section 1 hereof. The Shares of any Series may be issued in two or more Classes, as the Trustees may authorize pursuant to Article XII, Section 8 hereof. Unless the Trustees have authorized the issuance of Shares of a Series in two or more Classes, each Share of a Series shall represent an equal proportionate interest in the assets and liabilities of the Series with each other Share of the same Series, none having priority or preference over another. If the Trustees have authorized the issuance of Shares of a Series in two or more Classes, then the Classes may have such variations as to dividend, redemption, and voting rights, net asset values, expenses borne by the Classes, and other matters as the Trustees have authorized provided that each Share of a Class shall represent an equal proportionate interest in the assets and liabilities of the Class with each other Share of the same Class, none having priority or preference over another. The number of Shares authorized shall be unlimited. The Trustees may from time to time divide or combine the unlimited. The Trustees may form time to time divide or combine the Shares of any Series or Class into a greater or lesser number without thereby changing the proportionate beneficial interests in the Series or Class.

 

Section 2. Ownership or Shares.

 

The ownership of Shares shall be recorded in the books of the Trust or a transfer agent which books shall be maintained separately for the Shares of each Series or Class. The Trustees may make such rules as they consider appropriate for the transfer of Shares and similar matters. The record books of the Trust or any transfer agent, as the case may be, shall be conclusive as to who are the Shareholders of each Series or Class and as to the number of Shares of each Series or Class held from time to time by each.

 

Section 3. Investment in the Trust.

 

The Trustees shall accept investments in the Trust from such persons and on such terms as they may from time to time authorize. After the date of the initial contribution of capital (which shall occur prior to the initial public offering of Shares), the number of Shares to represent the initial contribution shall be considered as outstanding and the amount received by the Trustees on account of the contribution shall be treated as an asset of the Trust to be allocated among any Series or Classes in the manner described in Section 5(a) of this Article. Subsequent to such initial contribution of capital, Shares (including Shares which may have been redeemed or repurchased by the Trust) may be issued or sold at a price which will net the relevant Series or Class, as the case may be, before paying any taxes in connection with such issue or sale, not less than the net asset value (as defined in Article X, Section 4) thereof; provided, however, that the Trustees may in their discretion impose a sales charge upon investments in the Trust.

 

Section 4. No Pre-emptive Rights.

 

Shareholders shall have no pre-emptive or other right to subscribe to any additional Shares or other securities issued by the Trust or the Trustees.

 

Section 5. Establishment and Designation of Series or Class.

 

Without limiting the authority of the Trustees set forth in Article XII, Section 8, inter alia, to establish and designate any additional series or class or to modify the rights and preferences of any existing Series or Class, the initial series shall be, and is established and designated as, Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust.

 

Shares of any Series or Class established in this Section 5 shall have the following relative rights and preferences:

 

(a) Assets belonging to Series or Class. All consideration received by the Trust for the issue or sale of Shares of a particular Series or Class, together with all assets in which such consideration is invested or reinvested, all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof from whatever source derived, including, without limitation, any proceeds derived form the sale, exchange or liquidation of such proceeds whatever form the same may be, shall irrevocably belong to that Series or Class for all purposes subject only to the rights of creditors, and shall be so recorded upon the books of account of the Trust. Such consideration, assets, income, earnings, profits and proceeds thereof, from whatever source derived, including, without limitation, any proceeds derived from the sale, exchange or liquidation of such assets, and any funds or payments derived from any reinvestment of such proceeds, in whatever form the same may be, are herein referred to as “assets belonging to” that Series or Class. In the event that there are any assets, income, earnings, profits and proceeds thereof, funds or payments which are not readily identifiable as belonging to any particular Series or Class (collectively “General Assets”), the Trustees shall allocate such General Assets to, between or among any one or more of the Series or Classes established and designated from time to time in such manner and on such basis as they, in their sole discretion, deem fair and equitable, and any General Assets so allocated to a particular Series or Class shall belong to that Series or Class. Each such allocation by the Trustees shall be conclusive and binding upon the Shareholders of all Series or Classes for all purposes.

 

(b) Liabilities Belonging to Series or Class. The assets belonging to each particular Series or Class shall be charged with the liabilities of the Trust in respect to that Series or Class and all expenses, costs, charges and reserves attributable to that Series or Class, and any general liabilities of the Trust which are not readily identifiable as belonging to any particular Series or Class shall be allocated and charged by the Trustees to and among any one or more of the Series or Classes established and designated from time to time in such manner and on such basis as the Trustees in their sole discretion deem fair and equitable. The liabilities, expenses, costs, charges and reserves so charged to a Series or Class are herein referred to as “liabilities belonging to” that Series or Class. Each allocation of liabilities belonging to a Series or by the Trustees shall be conclusive and binding upon the Shareholders of all Series or Classes for all purposes.

 

(c) Dividends, Distributions, Redemptions, Repurchases and Indemnification. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Declaration, including, without limitation, Article X, no dividend or distribution (including, without limitation, any distribution paid upon termination of the Trust or of any Series or Class) with respect to, nor any redemption or repurchase of the Shares of any Series Class shall be effected by the Trust other than from the assets belonging to such Series or Class, nor except as specifically provided in Section 1 of Article XI hereof, shall any Shareholder of any particular Series or Class otherwise have any right or claim against the assets belonging to any other Series or Class except to the extent that such Shareholder has such a right or claim hereunder as a Shareholder of such other Series or Class.

 

(d) Voting. Notwithstanding any of the other provisions of this Declaration, including, without limitation, Section 1 of Article VIII, only Shareholders of a particular Series or Class shall be entitled to vote on any matters affecting such Series or Class. Except with respect to matters as to which any particular Series or Class is affected, all of the Shares of each Series or Class shall, on matters as to which such Series or Class is entitled to vote, vote with other Series or Classes so entitled as a single class. Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to matters which would otherwise be voted on by two or more Series or Classes as a single class, the Trustees may, in their sole discretion, submit such matters to the Shareholders of any or all such Series or Classes, separately.

 

(e) Fraction. Any fractional Share of a Series or Class shall carry proportionately all the rights and obligations of a whole Share of that Series or Class, including rights with respect to voting, receipt of dividends and distributions, redemption of Shares and termination of the Trust or of any Series or Class.

 

(f) Exchange Privilege. The Trustees shall have the authority to provide that the holders of Shares of any Series or Class shall have the right to exchange said Shares of one or more other Series or Classes in accordance with such requirements and procedures as may be established by the Trustees.

 

(g) Combination of Series or Classes. The Trustees shall have the authority, without the approval of the Shareholders of any Series or Class, unless otherwise required by applicable law, to combine the assets and liabilities belonging to a single Series or Class with the assets and liabilities of one or more other Series or Classes.

 

(h) Elimination of Series or Classes. At any time that there are no Shares outstanding of any particular Series or Class previously established and designated, the Trustees may amend this Declaration of Trust to abolish that Series or Class and to rescind the establishment and designation thereof.

 

 

ARTICLE IV

THE TRUSTEES

 

Section 1. Management of the Trust.

 

The business and affairs of the Trust shall be managed by the Trustees, and they shall have all powers necessary and desirable to carry out that responsibility. The Trustees who shall serve are the undersigned.

 

Section 2. Election of Trustees at Meeting of Shareholders.

 

On a date fixed by the Trustees, which shall be subsequent to the initial public offering of Shares of the Trust, the Shareholders shall elect Trustees. The number of Trustees shall be determined by the Trustees pursuant to Article IV, Section 6.

 

Section 3. Term of Office of Trustees.

 

The Trustees shall hold office during the lifetime of this Trust, and until its termination as hereinafter provided; except (a) that any Trustee may resign his office at any time by written instrument signed by him and delivered to the other Trustees, which shall take effect upon such delivery or upon such later date as is specified therein; (b) that any Trustee may be removed at any time by written instrument signed by at least two-thirds of the number of Trustees prior to such removal, specifying the date when such removal shall become effective; (c) that any Trustee who requests in writing to be retired or who has become mentally or physically incapacitated may be retired by written instrument signed by a majority of the other Trustees, specifying the date of his retirement; and (d) a Trustee may be removed at any special meeting of Shareholders of the Trust by a vote of two-thirds of the outstanding Shares.

 

Section 4. Termination of Service and Appointment of Trustees.

 

In case of the death, resignation, retirement, removal or mental or physical incapacity of any of the Trustees, or in case a vacancy shall, by reason of an increase in number, or for any other reason, exist, the remaining Trustees shall fill such vacancy by appointing such other person as they in their discretion shall see fit. Such appointment shall be effected by the signing of a written instrument by a majority of the Trustees in office. Within three months of such appointment, the Trustees shall cause notice of such appointment to be mailed to each Shareholder at his address as recorded on the books of the Trust. An appointment of a Trustee may be mailed by the Trustees then in office and notice thereof mailed to Shareholders as aforesaid in anticipation of a vacancy to occur by reason of retirement, resignation or increase in number of Trustees effective at a later date, provided that said appointment shall become effective only at or after the effective date of said retirement, resignation or increase in number of Trustees. As soon as any Trustee so appointed shall have accepted this Trust, the trust estate shall vest in the new Trustee or Trustees, together with the continuing Trustees, without any further act or conveyance, and he shall be deemed a Trustee hereunder. Any appointment authorized by this Section 4 is subject to the provisions of Section 16(a) of the 1940 Act.

 

Section 5. Temporary Absence of Trustee.

 

Any Trustee may, by power of attorney, delegate his power for a period not exceeding six months at any one time to any other Trustee or Trustees, provided that in no case shall less than two of the Trustees personally exercise the other power hereunder except as herein otherwise expressly provided.

 

Section 6. Number of Trustees.

 

The number of Trustees, not less than three (3) nor more than twenty (20) serving hereunder at any time, shall be determined by the Trustees themselves.

 

Whenever a vacancy in the Board of Trustees shall occur, until such vacancy is filled or while any Trustee is physically or mentally incapacitated, the other Trustees shall have all the powers hereunder and the certificate signed by a majority of the other Trustees of such vacancy, absence or incapacity, shall be conclusive, provided, however, that no vacancy which reduces the number of Trustees below three (3) shall remain unfilled for a period longer than six calendar months.

 

Section 7. Effect of Death, Resignation, etc. of a Trustee.

 

The death, resignation, retirement, removal, or mental or physical incapacity of the Trustees, or any one of them, shall not operate to annul the Trust or to revoke any existing agency created pursuant to the terms of this Declaration of Trust.

 

Section 8. Ownership of Assets.

 

The assets belonging to each Series or Class shall be held separate and apart from any assets now or hereafter held in any capacity other than as Trustee hereunder by the Trustees or any successor Trustee. All of the assets belonging to each Series or Class or owned by the Trust shall at all times be considered as vested in the Trustees. No Shareholder shall be deemed to have a severable ownership interest in any individual asset belonging to any Series or Class or owned by the Trust or any right of partition or possession thereof, but each Shareholder shall have a proportionate undivided beneficial interest in a Series or Class.

 

 
 

ARTICLE V

POWERS OF THE TRUSTEES

 

Section 1. Powers.

 

The Trustees in all instances shall act as principals, and are and shall be free from the control of the Shareholders. The Trustees shall have full power and authority to do any and all acts and to make and execute any and all contracts and instruments that they may consider necessary or appropriate in connection with the management of the Trust or a Series or Class. The Trustees shall not be bound or limited by present or future laws or customs in regard to trust investments, but shall have full authority and power to make any and all investments which they, in their uncontrolled discretion, shall deem proper to accomplish the purpose of this Trust. Without limiting the foregoing, the Trustees shall have the following specific powers and authority, subject to any applicable limitation in this Declaration of Trust or in the By-Laws of the Trust:

 

(a) To buy, and invest funds in their hands in securities including, but not limited to, common stocks, preferred stocks, bonds, debentures, warrants and rights to purchase securities, certificates of beneficial interest, money market instruments, notes or other evidences of indebtedness issued by any corporation, trust or association, domestic or foreign, or issued or guaranteed by the United States of America or any agency or instrumentality thereof, by the government of any foreign country, by any State of the United States, or by any political subdivision or agency or instrumentality of any State or foreign country, or in “when-issued” or “delayed-delivery” contracts for any such securities, or in any repurchase agreement (agreements under which the seller agrees at the time of sale to repurchase the security at an agreed time and price), or to retain assets belonging to each and every Series or Class in cash, and from time to time to change the investments of the assets belonging to each Series or Class;

 

(b) To adopt By-Laws of the Trust not inconsistent with the Declaration of Trust providing for the conduct of the business of the Trust and to amend and repeal them to the extent that they do not reserve that right to the Shareholders;

 

(c) To elect and remove such officers of the Trust and appoint and terminate such agents of the Trust as they consider appropriate;

 

(d) To appoint or otherwise engage a bank or trust company as custodian of any assets belonging to any Series or Class subject to any conditions set forth in this Declaration of Trust or in the By-Laws;

 

(e) To appoint or otherwise engage transfer agents, dividend disbursing agents, Shareholder servicing agents, investment advisers, sub-investment advisers, principal underwriters, administrative service agents, and such other agents as the Trustees may from time to time appoint or otherwise engage;

 

(f) To provide for the distribution of any Shares of any Series or Class either through a principal underwriter in the manner hereinafter provided for or by the Trust itself, or both;

 

(g) To set record dates in the manner hereinafter provided for;

 

(h) To delegate such authority as they consider desirable to a committee or committees composed of Trustees, including without limitation, an Executive Committee, or to any officers of the Trust and to any agent, custodian or underwriter;

 

(i) To sell or exchange any or all of the assets belonging to one or more Series or Classes, subject to the provisions of Article XII, Section 4(b) hereof;

 

(j) To vote or give assent, or exercise any rights of ownership, with respect to stock or other securities or property; and to execute and deliver powers of attorney to such person or persons as the Trustees shall deem proper, granting to such person or persons such power and discretion with relation to securities or property as the Trustees shall deem proper;

 

(k) To exercise powers and rights of subscription or otherwise which in any manner arise out of ownership of securities;

 

(l) To hold any security or property in a form not indicating any trust, whether in bearer, unregistered or other negotiable form; or either in its own name or in the name of a custodian or a nominee or nominees, subject in either case to proper safeguards according to the usual practice of Massachusetts trust companies or investment companies;

 

(m) To consent to or participate in any plan for the reorganization, consolidation or merger of any corporation or concern, any security of which belongs to any Series or Class; to consent to any contract, lease, mortgage, purchase, or sale of property by such corporation or concern, and to pay calls or subscriptions with respect to any security which belongs to any Series or Class;

 

(n) To engage in and to prosecute, compound, compromise, abandon, or adjust, by arbitration, or otherwise, any actions, suits, proceedings, disputes, claims, demands, and things relating to the Trust, and out of the assets belonging to any Series or Class to pay, or to satisfy, any debts, claims or expenses incurred in connection therewith, including those of litigation, upon any evidence that the Trustees may deem sufficient (such powers shall include without limitation any actions, suits, proceedings, disputes, claims, demands and things relating tot he Trust wherein any of the Trustees may be named individually and the subject matter of which arises by reason of business for or on behalf of the Trust);

 

(o) To make distributions of income and of capital gains to Shareholders;

 

(p) To borrow money but only as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes and then (a) only in amounts not in excess of 5% of the value of its total assets or (b) in any amount up to one-third of the value of its total assets, including the amount borrowed, or (c) by entering into reverse repurchase agreements in amounts not in excess of 20% of its total assets, in order to meet redemption requests without immediately selling any order to meet redemption requests without immediately selling any portfolio securities. The Trustees shall not pledge, mortgage or hypothecate the assets of the Trust, except in connection with any borrowing described herein and in amounts not in excess of the lesser of the dollar amounts borrowed of 10% of the value of the Trust’s total assets at the time of such borrowing;

 

(q) From time to time to issue and sell the Shares of any Series or Class either for cash or for property whenever and in such amounts as the Trustees may deem desirable, but subject to the limitation set forth in Section 3 of Article III;

 

(r) To purchase insurance of any kind, including, without limitation, insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust, or is or was serving at the request of the Trust as a Trustee, director, officer, agent or employee of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise against any liability asserted against him and incurred by him in any such capacity or arising out of his status as such.

 

No one dealing with the Trustees shall be under any obligation to make any inquiry concerning the authority of the Trustees, or to see to the application of any payments made or property transferred to the Trustees or upon their order.

 

The Trustees shall have all of the powers set forth in this Section 1 with respect to all assets and liabilities of each Series and Class.

 

Section 2. Principal Transactions.

 

The Trustees shall not cause the Trust on behalf of any Series or Class to buy any securities (other than Shares) from or sell any securities (other than Shares) from or sell any securities (other than Shares) to, or lend any assets belonging to any Series or Class to, any Trustee or officer or employee of the Trust or any firm of which any such Trustee or officer is a member acting as principal unless permitted by the 1940 Act, but the Trust may employ any such other party or any such person or firm or company in which any such person is an interested person in any capacity not prohibited by the 1940 Act.

 

Section 3. Trustees and Officers as Shareholders.

 

Any Trustee, officer or other agent of the Trust or any Series or Class may acquire, own and dispose of Shares of any Series or Class to the same extent as if he were not a Trustee, officer or agent; and the Trustees may issue and sell or cause to be issued or sold Shares of any Series or Class to and buy such Shares from any such person or any firm or company in which he is an interested person subject only to the general limitations herein contained as to the sale and purchase of such Shares; and all subject to any restrictions which may be contained in the By-Laws.

 

Section 4. Parties to Contract.

 

The Trustees may enter into any contract of the character described in Article VII or in Article IX hereof or any other capacity not prohibited by the 1940 Act with any corporation, firm, trust or association, although one or more of the Shareholders, Trustees, officers, employees or agents of the Trust or any Series or Class or their affiliates may be an officer, director, Trustee, shareholder or interested person of such other party to the contract, and no such contract shall be invalidated or rendered voidable by reason of the existence of any such relationship, nor shall any person holding such relationship be liable merely by reason of such relationship for any loss or expense to the Trust or any Series or Class under or by reason of said contract or accountable for any profit realized directly or indirectly therefrom, in the absence of actual fraud. The same person (including a firm, corporation, trust or association) may be the other party to contracts entered into pursuant to Article VII or Article IX or any other capacity deemed legal under the 1940 Act, and any individual may be financially interested or otherwise an interested person of persons who are parties to any or all of the contracts mentioned in this Section 4.

 

ARTICLE VI

TRUSTEES’ EXPENSES AND COMPENSATION

 

Section 1. Trustee Reimbursement.

 

The Trustees shall be reimbursed from the assets belonging to each particular Series or Class for all of their expenses as such expenses are allocated to and among any one or more of the Series or Classes pursuant to Article III, Section 5(b), including, without limitation, expenses of organizing the Trust or any Series or Class and continuing its or their existence; fees and expenses of Trustees and officers of the Trust; fees for investment advisory services, administrative services and principal underwriting services provided for in Article VII, Sections 1, 2, and 3; fees and expenses of preparing and printing Registration Statements under the Securities Act of 1933 and the 1940 Act and any amendments thereto; expenses of registering and qualifying the Trust and any Series or Class and the Shares of any Series or Class under federal and state laws and regulations; expenses of preparing, printing and distributing prospectuses and any amendments thereof sent to Shareholders, underwriters, broker-dealers and to investors who may be considering the purchase of Shares; expenses of registering, licensing or other authorization of the Trust or any Series or Class as a broker-dealer and of its or their officers as agents and salesmen under federal and state laws and regulations; interest expenses, taxes, fees and commissions of every kind; expenses of issue (including cost of share certificates), purchase, repurchase and redemption of Shares, including expenses attributable to a program of periodic issue; charges and expenses of custodians, transfer agents, dividend disbursing agents, Shareholder servicing agents and registrars; printing and mailing costs; auditing, accounting and legal expenses; reports to Shareholders and governmental officers and commissions; expenses of meetings of Shareholders and proxy solicitations therefor; insurance expenses; association membership dues and nonrecurring items as may arise, including all losses and liabilities by them incurred in administering the Trust and any Series or Class, including expenses incurred in connection with litigation, proceedings and claims and the obligations of the Trust under Article XI hereof and the By-Laws to indemnify its Trustees, officers, employees, Shareholders and agents, and any contract obligation to indemnify principal underwriters under Section 3 of Article VII; and for the payment of such expenses, disbursements, losses and liabilities, the Trustees shall have a lien on the assets belonging to each Series or Class prior to any rights or interests of the Shareholders of any Series or Class. This section shall not preclude the Trust from directly paying any of the aforementioned fees and expenses.

 

Section 2. Trustee Compensation.

 

The Trustees shall be entitled to compensation from the Trust from the assets belonging to any Series or Class for their respective services as Trustees, to be determined from time to time by vote of the Trustees, and the Trustees shall also determine the compensation of all officers, consultants and agents whom they may elect or appoint. The Trust may pay out of the assets belonging to any Series or Class any Trustee or any corporation, firm, trust or other entity of which a Trustee is an interested person for services rendered in any capacity not prohibited by the 1940 Act, and such payments shall not be deemed compensation for services as a Trustee under the first sentence of this Section 2 of Article VI.

 

ARTICLE VII

INVESTMENT ADVISER, ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES,

PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITER AND TRANSFER AGENT

 

Section 1. Investment Adviser.

 

Subject to a Majority Shareholder Vote by the relevant Series or Class, the Trustees may in their discretion from time to time enter into an investment advisory contract whereby the other party to such contract shall undertake to furnish the Trustees investment advisory services for such Series or Class upon such terms and conditions and for such compensation as the Trustees may in their discretion determine. Subject to a Majority Shareholder Vote by the relevant Series or Class, the investment adviser may enter into a sub-investment advisory contract to receive investment advice and/or statistical and factual information from the sub-investment adviser for such Series or Class upon such terms and conditions and for such compensation as the Trustees may, in their discretion, agree to. Notwithstanding any provisions of this Declaration of Trust, the Trustees may authorize the investment adviser or sub-investment adviser of any person furnishing administrative personnel and Services as set forth in Article VII, Section 2 (subject to such general or specific instructions as the Trustees may from time to time adopt) to effect purchases, sales or exchanges of portfolio securities belonging to a Series or Class on behalf of the Trustees or may authorize any officer or Trustee to effect such purchases, sales, or exchanges pursuant to recommendations of the investment adviser (and all without further action by the Trustees). Any such purchases, sales and exchanges shall be deemed to have been authorized by the Trustees. The Trustees may also authorize the investment adviser to determine what firms shall be employed to effect transactions in securities for the account of a Series or Class and to determine what firms shall participate in any such transactions or shall share in commissions or fees charged in connection with such transactions.

 

Section 2. Administrative Services.

 

The Trustees may in their discretion from time to time contract for administrative personnel and services whereby the other party shall agree to provide the Trustees administrative personnel and services to operate the Trust or a Series or Class on a daily basis, on such terms and conditions as the Trustees may in their discretion determine. Such services may be provided by one or more entities.

 

Section 3. Principal Underwriter.

 

The Trustees may in their discretion from time to time enter into an exclusive or nonexclusive contract or contracts providing for the sale of the Shares of a Series or Class to net such Series or Class not less than the amount provided in Article III, Section 3 hereof, whereby a Series or Class may either agree to sell the Shares to the other party to the contract or appoint such other party its sales terms and conditions (including indemnification of principal underwriters allowable under applicable law and regulation) as the Trustees may in their discretion determine not inconsistent with the provisions of this Article VII; and such contract may also provide for the repurchase or sale of Shares of a Series or Class by such other party as principal or as agent of the Trust and may provide that the other party may maintain a market for shares of a Series or Class.

 

Section 4. Transfer Agent.

 

The Trustees may in their discretion from time to time enter into transfer agency and shareholder services contracts whereby the other party shall undertake to furnish transfer agency and shareholder services. The contracts shall be on such terms and conditions as the Trustees may in their discretion determine not inconsistent with the provisions of this Declaration of Trust or of the By-Laws. Such services may be provided by one or more entities.

 

Section 5. Provisions and Amendments.

 

Any contract entered into pursuant to Sections 1 or 3 if this Article VII shall be consistent with the subject to the requirements of Section 15 of the 1940 Act (including any amendments thereof or other applicable Act of Congress hereafter enacted) with respect to its continuance in effect, its termination and the method of authorization and approval of such contract or renewal thereof.

 

ARTICLE VIII

SHAREHOLDERS’ VOTING POWERS AND MEETINGS

 

Section 1. Voting Powers.

 

Subject to the provisions set forth in Article III, Section 5(d), the Shareholders shall have power to vote, (i) for the election of Trustees as provided in Article IV, Section 2; (ii) for the removal of Trustees as provided in Article IV, Section 3(d); (iii) with respect to any investment adviser or sub-investment adviser as provided in Article VII, Section 1; (iv) with respect to the amendment of this Declaration of Trust as provided in Article XII, Section 7; (v) to the same extent as the shareholders of a Massachusetts business corporation as to whether or not a court action, proceeding or claim should be brought or maintained derivatively or as a class action on behalf of the Trust or the Shareholders; and (vi) with respect to such additional matters relating to the Trust as may be required by law, by this Declaration of Trust, or By-Laws of the Trust or any regulation of the Trust or the Commission or any State, or as the Trustees may consider desirable. Each whole Share shall be entitled to one vote as to any matter on which it is entitled to vote, and each fractional Share shall be entitled to a proportionate fractional vote. There shall be no cumulative voting in the election of Trustees. Shares may be voted in person or by proxy. Until Shares of a Series or Class are issued, the Trustees may exercise all rights. Shareholders of such Series or Class with respect to matters affecting such Series or Class, and may take any action with respect to the Trust or such Series or Class required or permitted by law, this Declaration of Trust or any By-Laws of the Trust to be taken by Shareholders.

 

Section 2. Meetings.

 

A Shareholders meeting shall be held as specified in Section 2 of Article IV at the principal office of the Trust or such other place as the Trustees may designate. Special meetings of the Shareholders may be called by the Trustees or the Chief Executive Officer of the Trust and shall be called by the Trustees upon the written request of Shareholders owning at least one-tenth of the outstanding Shares of all Series and Classes entitled to vote. Shareholders shall be entitled to at least fifteen days’ notice of any meeting.

 

 
 

Section 3. Quorum and Required Vote.

 

Except as otherwise provided by law, to constitute a quorum for the transaction of any business at any meeting of Shareholders there must be present, in person or by proxy, holders of one-fourth of the total number of outstanding Shares of all Series and Classes entitled to vote at such meeting. When any one or more Series or Classes is entitled to vote as a single Series or Class, one-fourth of the shares of each such Series or Class entitled to vote shall constitute a quorum at a Shareholder’s meeting of that Series or Class. If a quorum shall not be present for the purpose of any vote that may properly come before the meeting, the Shares present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote at such meeting on such matter may, by plurality vote, adjourn the meeting from time to time to such place and time without further notice than by announcement to be given at the meeting until a quorum entitled to vote on such matter shall be present, where upon any such matter may be voted upon at the meeting as though held when originally convened. Subject to any applicable requirement of law or of this Declaration of Trust or the By-Laws, a plurality of the votes cast shall elect a Trustee, and all other matters shall be decided by a majority of the votes cast and entitled to vote thereon.

 

Section 4. Additional Provisions.

 

The By-Laws may include further provisions for Shareholders’ votes and meetings and related matters.

 

ARTICLE IX

CUSTODIAN

 

Section 1. Appointment and Duties.

 

The Trustees shall appoint or otherwise engage a bank or trust company having an aggregate capital, surplus and undivided profits (as shown in its last published report) of at least two million dollars ($2,000,000) as custodian with authority as its agent, but subject to such restrictions, limitations and other requirements, if any, as may be contained in the By-Laws of the Trust:

 

(1) To receive and hold the securities owned by the Trust or any Series or Class and deliver the same upon written order;

 

(2) To receive and receipt for any moneys due to the Trust or any Series or Class and deposit the same in its own banking department or elsewhere as the Trustees may direct; and

 

(3) To disburse such funds upon order or vouchers;

 

(4) To keep the books and accounts of the Trust or any Series or Class and furnish clerical and accounting services;

 

(5) To compute, if authorized to do so by the Trustees, the Accumulated Net Income of the Trust or any Series or Class and the net asset value of the Shares in accordance with the provisions hereof;

 

all upon such basis of compensation as may be agreed upon between the Trustees and the custodian. If so directed by a Majority Shareholder Vote, the custodian shall deliver and pay over all property of the Trust or any Series held by it as specified in such vote.

 

The Trustees may also authorize the custodian to employ one or more sub-custodians from time to time to perform such of the acts and services of the custodian upon such terms and conditions, as may be agreed upon between the custodian and such sub-custodian and approved by the Trustees, provided that in every case such sub-custodian shall be a bank or trust company organized under the laws of the United States or one of the states thereof and having an aggregate capital, surplus and undivided profits (as shown in its last published report) of at least two million dollars ($2,000,000).

 

Section 2. Central Certificate System.

 

Subject to such rules, regulations and orders as the Commission may adopt, the Trustees may direct the custodian to deposit all or any part of the securities owned by the Trust or any Series in a system for the central handling of securities established by a national securities exchange or a national securities association registered with the Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, or such other person as may be permitted by the Commission or otherwise in accordance with the 1940 Act, pursuant to which system all securities of any particular class or series of any issuer deposited within the system are treated as fungible and may be transferred or pledged by bookkeeping entry without physical delivery of such securities, provided that all such deposits shall be subject to withdrawal only upon the order of the custodian at the discretion of the Trustees.

 

ARTICLE X

DISTRIBUTIONS AND REDEMPTIONS

 

Section 1. Distributions.

 

(a) The Trustees may, on each day Accumulated Net Income of any Series or Class is determined and is positive, declare and pay such Accumulated Net Income as dividends to the Shareholders of any Series or Class, and the amount of such dividends and the payment of them shall be wholly in the discretion of the Trustees. Such dividends may be accrued and automatically reinvested in additional Shares (or fractions thereof) of the relevant Series or Class or paid in cash or additional Shares of such Series or Class, all upon such terms and conditions as the Trustees may prescribe.

 

(b) The Trustees may distribute in respect of any fiscal year as dividends and as capital gains distributions, respectively, amounts sufficient to enable any Series or Class to qualify as a regulated investment company to avoid any liability for federal income taxes in respect of that year.

 

(c) The decision of the Trustees as to what constitutes income and what constitutes principal shall be final, and except as specifically provided herein the decision of the Trustees as to what expenses and charges of any Series or Class shall be charged against principal and what against the income shall be final. Any income not distributed in any year may be permitted to accumulate and as long as not distributed may be invested from time to time in the same manner as the principal funds of any Series or Class.

 

(d) The Trustees shall have power, to the fullest extent permitted by the laws of Massachusetts, at any time, or from time to time, to declare and cause to be paid dividends on any Series or Class, which dividends, at the election of the Trustees, may be accrued, automatically reinvested in additional Shares (or fractions thereof) of the relevant Series or Class or paid in cash or additional Shares of the relevant Series or Class, all upon such terms and conditions as the Trustees may prescribe.

 

(e) Anything in this instrument to the contrary notwithstanding, the Trustees may at any time declare and distribute a dividend consisting of Shares of any Series or Class of the Trust.

 

(f) All dividends and distributions on Shares of a particular Series or Class shall be distributed pro rata to the holders of that Series or Class in proportion to the number of Shares of that Series or Class held by such holders and recorded on the books of the Trust or its transfer agent at the date and time of record established for that payment.

 

 
 

Section 2. Redemptions and Repurchases.

 

(a) In case any Shareholder of record of any Series or Class at any time desires to dispose of Shares of such Series or Class recorded in his name, he may deposit a written request (or such other form of request as the Trustees may from time to time authorize) requesting that the Trust purchase his Shares, together with such other instruments or authorizations to effect the transfer as the Trustees may from time to time require, at the office of the Transfer Agent, and the Trust shall purchase his Shares out of assets belonging to such Series or Class. The purchase price shall be the net asset value of his shares reduced by any redemption charge as the Trustees from time to time may determine.

 

Payment for such Shares shall be made by the Trust to the Shareholder of record within that time period required under the 1940 Act after the request (and, if required, such other instruments or authorizations or transfer) is deposited, subject to the right of the Trustees to postpone the date of payment pursuant to Section 5 of this Article X, the right of redemption pursuant to Section 5 of this Article X. If the redemption is postponed beyond the date on which it would normally occur by reason of a declaration by the Trustees suspending the right of redemption pursuant to Section 5 of this Article X, the right of the Shareholder to have his Shares purchased by the Trust shall be similarly suspended, and he may withdraw his request (or such other instruments or authorizations of transfer) from deposit if he so elects; or, if he does not so elect, the purchase price shall be the net asset value of his Shares determined next after termination of such suspension (reduced by any redemption charge), and payment therefor shall be made within the time period required under the 1940 Act.

 

(b) The Trust may purchase Shares of a Series or Class by agreement with the owner thereof at a purchase price not exceeding the net asset value per Share (reduced by any redemption charge) determined (1) next after the purchase or contract of purchase is made or (2) at some later time.

 

(c) The Trust may pay the purchase price (reduced by any redemption charge) in whole or in part by a distribution in kind of securities from the portfolio of the relevant Series or Class, taking such securities at the same value employed in determining net asset value, and selecting the securities in such manner as the Trustees may deem fair and equitable.

 

Section 3. Determination of Accumulated Net Income.

 

The Accumulated Net Income of any Series or Class of the Trust shall be determined by or on behalf of the Trustees at such time or times as the Trustees shall in their discretion determine. Such determination shall be made in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and practices and may include realized and/or unrealized gains from the sale or other deposition of securities or other property of the relevant Series. The power and duty to determine Accumulated Net Income for any Series or Class may be delegated by the Trustees from time to time to one or more of the Trustees or officers of the Trust, to the other party to any contract entered into pursuant to Section 1 or 2 of Article VII, or to the custodian or to a transfer agent.

 

Section 4. Net Asset Value of Shares.

 

The net asset value of each Share of a Series or Class outstanding shall be determined at such time or times as may be determined by or on behalf of the Trustees. The power and duty to determine net asset value may be delegated by the Trustees from time to time to one or more of the Trustees or officers of the Trust, to the other party to any contract entered into pursuant to Section 1 or 2 of Article VII or to the custodian or to a transfer agent or other person designated by the Trustees.

 

The net asset value of each Share of a Series or Class as of any particular time shall be the quotient (adjusted to the nearer cent) obtained by dividing the value, as of such time, of the net assets belonging to such Series or Class (i.e., the value of the assets belonging to such Series or Class less the liabilities belonging to such Series or Class exclusive of capital and surplus) by the total number of Shares outstanding of the Series or Class at such time in accordance with the requirements of the 1940 Act and applicable provisions of the By-Laws of the Trust in conformity with generally accepted accounting practices and principles.

 

The Trustees may declare a suspension of the determination of net asset value for the whole or any part of any period in accordance with the 1940 Act.

 

Section 5. Suspension of the Right of Redemption.

 

The Trustees may declare a suspension of the right or redemption or postpone the date of payment for the whole or any part of the any period in accordance with the 1940 Act.

 

Section 6. Trust’s Right to Redeem Shares.

 

The Trust shall have the right to cause the redemption of Shares of any Series or Class in any Shareholder’s account for their then current net asset value and promptly make payment to the shareholder (which payment may be reduced by any applicable redemption charge), if at any time the total investment in the account does not have a minimum dollar value determined from time to time by the Trustees in their sole discretion. Shares of any Series or Class of the Trust are redeemable at the option of the Trust if, in the opinion of the Trustees, ownership of such Shares has or may become concentrated to an extent which would cause the Trust or any Series to be a personal holding company within the meaning of the Federal Internal Revenue Code (and thereby disqualified under Sub-chapter M of said Code); in such circumstances the Trust may compel the redemption of Shares of such Series or Class, reject any order for the purchase of such Shares or refuse to give effect to the transfer of such Shares.

 

ARTICLE XI

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION

 

Section 1. Limitation of Personal Liability and Indemnification of Shareholders.

 

The Trustees, officers, employees or agents of the Trust shall have no power to bind any Shareholder of any Series or Class personally or to call upon such Shareholder for the payment of any sum of money or assessment whatsoever, other than such as the Shareholder may at any time agree to pay by way of subscription to any Shares or otherwise.

 

No Shareholder or former Shareholder of any Series or Class shall be liable solely by reason of his being or having been a Shareholder for any debt, claim, action, demand, suit, proceeding, judgment, decree, liability or obligation of any kind, against, or with respect to the Trust or any Series or Class arising out of any action taken or omitted for or on behalf of the Trust or such Series or Class, and the Trust or such Series or Class shall be solely liable therefor and resort shall be had solely to the property of the relevant Series or Class of the Trust for the payment or performance thereof.

 

Each Shareholder or former Shareholder of any Series or Class (or their heirs, executors, administrators or other legal representatives or, in case of a corporate entity, its corporate or general successor) shall be entitled to indemnity and reimbursement out of Trust property to the full extent of such liability and the costs of any litigation or other proceedings in which such liability shall have been determined, including, without limitation, the fees and disbursements of counsel if, contrary to the provisions hereof, such Shareholder or former Shareholder of such Series or Class shall be held to be personally liable. Such indemnification and reimbursement shall come exclusively from the assets of the relevant Series or Class.

 

The Trust shall, upon request by a Shareholder or former Shareholder, assume the defense of any claim made against any Shareholder for any act or obligation of the Trust or any Series or Class and satisfy any judgment thereon.

 

Section 2. Limitation of Personal Liability of Trustees, Officers, Employees or Agents of the Trust.

 

No Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust shall have the power to bind any other Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust personally. The Trustees, officers, employees or agents of the Trust incurring any debts, liabilities or obligations, or in taking or omitting any other actions for or in connection with the Trust are, and each shall be deemed to be, acting as Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust and not in his own individual capacity.

 

Provided they have acted under the belief that their actions are in the best interest of the Trust, the Trustees and officers shall not be responsible for or liable in any event for neglect or wrongdoing by them or any officer, agent, employee, investment adviser or principal underwriter of the Trust or of any entity providing administrative services to the Trust, but nothing herein contained shall protect any Trustee or officer against any liability to which he would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office.

 

Section 3. Express Exculpatory Clauses and Instruments.

 

The Trustees shall use every reasonable means to assure that all persons having dealings with the Trust or any Series or Class shall be informed that the property of the Shareholders and the Trustees, officers, employees and agents of the Trust or any Series or Class shall not be subject to claims against or obligations of the Trust or any other Series or Class to any extent whatsoever. The Trustees shall cause to be inserted in any written agreement, undertaking or obligation made or issued on behalf of the Trust or any Series or Class (including certificates for Shares of any Series or Class) an appropriate reference to this Declaration, providing that neither the Shareholder, the Trustees, the officers, the employees nor any agent of the Trust or any Series or Class shall be liable thereunder, and that the other parties to such instrument shall look solely to the assets belonging to the relevant Series or Class for the payment of any claim thereunder or for the performance thereof; but the omission of such provisions from any such instrument shall not render any Shareholder, Trustee, officer, employee or agent liable, nor shall the Trustee, or any officer, agent or employee of the Trust or any Series or Class be liable to anyone for such omission. If, notwithstanding this provision, any Shareholder, Trustee, officer, employee or agent shall be held liable to any other person by reason of the omission of such provision form any such agreement, undertaking or obligation, the Shareholder, Trustee, officer, employee or agent shall be entitled to indemnity and reimbursement out of the Trust property, as provided in Article XI.

 

Section 4. Indemnification of Trustees, Officers, Employees and Agents.

 

(a)       Every person who is or has been a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust or of any Series of the Trust and persons who serve at the Trust’s request as director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise shall be indemnified by the Trust or the relevant Series to the fullest extent permitted by law against liability and against all expenses reasonably incurred or paid by him in connection with any debt, claim, action, demand, suit, proceeding, judgment, decree, liability or obligation of any kind in which he becomes involved as a party or otherwise by virtue of his being or having been a Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust or of such Series or of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise at the request of the Trust or of such Series and against amounts paid or incurred by him in the settlement thereof.

 

(b)       The words “claim,” “action,” “suit” or “proceeding” shall apply to all claims, actions, suits or proceedings (civil, criminal, administrative, legislative, investigative or other, including appeals), actual or threatened, and the words “liability” and “expenses” shall include, without limitation, attorneys’ fees, costs, judgments, amounts paid in settlement, fines, penalties and other liabilities.

 

(c)       No indemnification shall be provided hereunder to a Trustee, officer, employee or agent against any liability to the Trust or any Series of the Trust or to its Shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office.

 

(d)       The rights of indemnification herein provided may be insured against by policies maintained by the Trust or any Series, shall be severable, shall not affect any other rights to which any Trustee, officer, employee or agent may now or hereafter be entitled, shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be such Trustee, officer, employee, or agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.

 

(e)       Expenses in connection with the preparation and presentation of a defense to any claim, action, suit or proceeding of the character described in paragraph (a) of this Section 4 may be paid by the Trust or any Series prior to final disposition thereof upon receipt of any undertaking by or on behalf of the Trustee, officer, employee or agent secured by a surety bond or other suitable insurance that such amount will be paid over by him to the Trust or any Series if it is ultimately determined that he is not entitled to indemnification under this Section 4.

 

ARTICLE XII

MISCELLANEOUS

 

Section 1. Trust is not a Partnership.

 

It is hereby expressly declared that a trust and not a partnership is created hereby.

 

Section 2. Trustee Action Binding, Expert Advice, No Bond or Surety.

 

The exercise by the Trustees of their powers and discretions hereunder in good faith and with reasonable care under the circumstances then prevailing, shall be binding upon everyone interested. Subject to the provisions of Article XI, the Trustees shall not be liable for errors of judgment or mistakes of fact or law. The Trustees may take advice of counsel or other experts with respect to the meaning and operation of this Declaration of Trust, and subject to the provisions of Article XI, shall be under no liability for any act or omission in accordance with such advice or for failing to follow such advice. The Trustees shall not be required to give any bond as such, nor any surety if a bond is required.

 

Section 3. Establishment of Record Dates.

 

The Trustees may close the Share transfer books of the Trust maintained with respect to any Series or Class for a period not exceeding sixty (60) days preceding the date of any meeting of Shareholders of the Trust or any Series or Class, or the date for the payment of any dividend or the making of any distribution to Shareholders, or the date for the allotment of rights, or the date when any change or conversion or exchange of Shares of any Series or Class shall go into effect; or in lieu of closing the Share transfer books as aforesaid, the Trustees may fix in advance a date, not exceeding sixty (60) days preceding the date of any meeting of Shareholders of the Trust or any Series or Class, or the date for the payment of any dividend or the making of any distribution to Shareholders of any Series or Class, or the date for the allotment of rights, or the date when any change or conversion or exchange of Shares of any Series or Class shall go into effect, or the last day on which the consent or dissent of Shareholders of any Series or Class may be effectively expressed for any purpose, as a record date for the determination of the Shareholders entitled to notice of, and, to vote at, any such meeting and any adjournment thereof, or entitled to receive payment of any such dividend or distribution, or to any such allotment of rights, or to exercise the rights in respect of any such change, conversion or exchange of shares, or to exercise the right to give such consent or dissent, and in such case such Shareholders and only such Shareholders as shall be Shareholders of record on the date so fixed shall be entitled to such notice of, and to vote at, such meeting, or to receive payment of such dividend or distribution, or to receive such allotment or rights, or to exercise such rights, as the case may be, notwithstanding, after such date fixed aforesaid, any transfer of any Shares on the books of the Trust maintained with respect to any Series or Class. Nothing in the foregoing sentence shall be construed as precluding the Trustees from setting different record dates for different Series or Classes.

 

 
 

Section 4. Termination of Trust.

 

(a) This Trust shall continue without limitation of time but subject to the provisions of paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) of this Section 4.

 

(b) The Trustees may, by majority action, with the approval of the holders of more than fifty percent of the outstanding Shares of each Series or Class entitled to vote and voting separately by Series or Class, sell and convey the assets of the Trust or any Series or Class to another trust or corporation. Upon making provision for the payment of all liabilities, by assumption or otherwise, the Trustees shall distribute the remaining proceeds belonging to each Series or Class ratably among the holders of the Shares of that Series or Class then outstanding.

 

(c) The Trustees may at any time sell and convert into money all the assets of the Trust, or a class or Series of the Trust, without shareholder approval, unless otherwise required by applicable law. Upon making provision for the payment of all outstanding obligations, taxes and other liabilities, accrued or contingent, belonging to the Trust, the Trustees shall distribute the remaining assets of the Trust ratably among the holders of the outstanding Shares having an interest in such assets.

 

(d) Upon completion of the distribution of the remaining proceeds of the remaining assets as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c), the Trust or the applicable Series or Class shall terminate and the Trustees shall be discharged of any and all further liabilities and duties hereunder or with respect thereto and the right, title and interest of all parties shall be canceled and discharged.

 

Section 5. Offices of the Trust, Filing of Copies, Headings, Counterparts.

 

The Trust shall maintain a usual place of business in Massachusetts, which, initially, shall be One Post Office Square, Boston, Massachusetts, and shall continue to maintain an office at such address unless changed by the Trustees to another location in Massachusetts. The Trust may maintain other offices as the Trustees may from time to time determine. The original or a copy of this instrument and of each declaration of trust supplemental hereto shall be kept at the office of the Trust where it may be inspected by any Shareholder. A copy of this instrument and of each supplemental declaration of trust shall be filed by the Trustees with the Massachusetts Secretary of State and the Boston City Clerk, as well as any other governmental office where such filing may from time to time be required. Anyone dealing with the Trust may relay on a certificate by an officer of the Trust as to whether or not any such supplemental declaration of trust has been made and as to any matters in connection with the Trust hereunder, and with the same effect as if it were the original, may rely on a copy certified by an officer of the Trust to be a copy of this instrument or of any such supplemental declaration of trust. In this instrument or in any such supplemental declaration of trust. In this instrument or in any such supplemental declaration of trust, references to this instrument, and all expressions like “herein,” “hereof” and “hereunder,” shall be deemed to refer to this instrument as amended or affected by any such supplemental declaration of trust. Headings are placed herein for convenience of reference only and in case of any conflict, the text of this instrument, rather than the headings, shall control. This instrument may be executed in any number of counterparts each of which shall be deemed an original.

 

Section 6. Applicable Law.

 

The Trust set forth in this instrument is created under and is to be governed by and construed and administered according to the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Trust shall be of the type commonly called a Massachusetts business trust, and without limiting the provisions hereof, the Trust may exercise all powers which are ordinarily exercised by such a trust.

 

 
 

Section 7. Amendments - - General.

 

Prior to the initial issuance of Shares pursuant to Section 3 of Article III, a majority of the Trustees then in office may amend or otherwise supplement this instrument by making a Declaration of Trust supplemental hereto, which thereafter shall form a part hereof. Subsequent to such initial issuance of Shares, amendments or supplements to this instrument may be authorized by a majority of the Trustees then in office and by a Majority Shareholder Vote of all Series and Classes then outstanding and entitled to vote thereon (except that any amendments or supplements changing the name of the Trust or pursuant to Section 8 hereunder may be made without shareholder approval), or by any larger vote which may be required by applicable law or this Declaration of Trust in any particular case, which amendment or supplement thereafter shall form a part hereof. Any such amendment or supplement (which may be in the form of a complete restatement) may be evidenced by either (i) a supplemental Declaration of Trust signed by at least a majority of the Trustees then in office or (ii) by a certificate of the President and Secretary of the Trust setting forth such amendment or supplement and certifying that such amendment or supplement has been duly authorized by the Trustees, and if required, by the shareholders. Copies of the supplemental Declaration of Trust or the certificate of the President and Secretary, as the case may be, shall be filed as specified in Section 5 of this Article XII.

 

Section 8. Amendments - - Series and Classes.

 

The established and designation of any series or class of Shares in addition to those established and designated in Section 5 of Article III hereof shall be effective upon the execution by a majority of the then Trustees of an amendment to this Declaration of Trust, taking the form of a complete restatement or otherwise, setting forth such establishment and designation and the relative rights and preferences of any such Series or Class, or as otherwise provided in such instrument.

 

Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Declaration of the Trust may be amended to:

 

(a) create one or more Series or Classes of Shares (in addition to any Series or Classes already existing or otherwise) with such to rights and preferences and such eligibility requirements for investment therein as the Trustees shall determine and reclassify any or all outstanding Shares as Shares of particular Series or Classes in accordance with such eligibility requirements;

 

(b) combine two or more Series or Classes of Shares into a single Series or Class on such terms and conditions as the Trustees shall determine;

 

(c) change or eliminate any eligibility requirements for investment in Shares of any Series or Class, including without limitation the power to provide for the issue of Shares of any Series or Class in connection with any merger or consolidation of the Trust with another trust or company or any acquisition by the Trust of part or all of the assets of another trust or company;

 

(d) change the designation of any Series or Class of Shares;

 

(e) change the method of allocating dividends among the various Series and Classes of Shares;

 

(f) allocate any specific assets or liabilities of the Trust or any specific items of income or expense of the Trust to one or more Series and Classes of Shares;

 

(g) specifically allocate assets to any or all Series or Classes of Shares or create one or more additional Series or Classes of Shares which are preferred over all other Series or Classes of Shares in respect of assets specifically allocated thereto or any dividends paid by the Trust with respect to any net income, however determined, earned from the investment and reinvestment of any assets so allocated or otherwise and provide for any special voting or other rights with respect to such Series or Classes.

 

Section 9. Use of Name.

 

The Trust acknowledges that Federated Investors has reserved the right to grant the non-exclusive use of the name “Federated” or any derivative thereof to any other investment company, investment company portfolio, investment adviser, distributor, or other business enterprise, and to withdraw from the Trust or owe or more Series or Classes any right to use of the name “Federated”.

 

The undersigned hereby certify that the above stated Amendment and Restatement is a true and correct Amendment and Restatement to the Declaration of Trust, as adopted by the Board of Trustees at a meeting held on the 17th day of November, 1998, and effective as of April 2, 1999.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have executed this instrument the day and year first above written.

 

/s/ John F. Donahue   /s/ Peter E. Madden  
John F. Donahue   Peter E. Madden  
       
/s/ Thomas G. Bigley   /s/ Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.  
Thomas G. Bigley   Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.  
       
/s/ John T. Conroy, Jr.   /s/ John E. Murray, Jr.  
John T. Conroy, Jr.   John E Murray, Jr.  
       
/s/ John F. Cunningham   /s/ Marjorie P. Smuts  
John F. Cunningham   Marjorie P. Smuts  
       
/s/ Lawrence D. Ellis, M.D.   /s/ John S. Walsh  
Lawrence D. Ellis, M.D.   John S. Walsh  

 

 
 

COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA )

: ss:

COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY )

 

I hereby certify that on April 2, 1999, before me, the subscriber, a Notary Public of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, in for the County of Allegheny, personally appeared

JOHN F. DONAHUE, THOMAS G. BIGLEY, JOHN T. CONROY, Jr., JOHN F. CUNNINGHAM, LAWRENCE D. ELLIS, M.D., PETER E. MADDEN, CHARLES F. MANSFIELD, JR., JOHN E. MURRAY, JR., MARJORIE P. SMUTS, AND JOHN S. WALSH who acknowledged the foregoing Declaration of Trust to be their act.

 

Witness my hand and notarial seal the day and year above written.

 

/s/ Nancy H. Beatty

Notary Public

 

 
 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

Amendment No. 6

to the

Amended & Restated

DECLARATION OF TRUST

 

Dated April 2, 1999

 

 

THIS Declaration of Trust is amended as follows:

 

A. Strike the first sentence of Section 5 of Article XII from the Declaration of Trust and substitute in its place the following:

 

Section 5. Offices of the Trust, Filing of Copies, Headings, Counterparts. The Trust shall maintain a usual place of business in Massachusetts, which shall be determined by the Trustees, and shall continue to maintain an office at such address unless changed by the Trustees to another location in Massachusetts.

 

The undersigned, President and Secretary, hereby certify that the above-stated Amendment is a true and correct Amendment to the Declaration of Trust, as adopted by the Board of Trustees at a meeting on the 17th day of May, 2000.

 

WITNESS the due execution hereof this 17th day of May, 2000.

 

 

/s/ Glen R. Johnson   /s/ John W. McGonigle  
Glen R. Johnson, President   John W. McGonigle, Secretary  
 
 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

Amendment No. 7

to the

Amended & Restated

 

DECLARATION OF TRUST

 

Dated April 2, 1999

 

THIS Declaration of Trust is amended as follows:

 

Delete the paragraph of Section 5, Establishment and Designation of Series or Class of Article III, Beneficial Interest , in its entirety and replace with the following:

 

Section 5. Establishment and Designation of Series or Class.

 

Without limiting the authority of the Trustees set forth in Article XII, Section 8, inter alia, to establish and designate any additional series or class or to modify the rights and preferences of any existing Series or Class, the series shall be, and is established and designated as:

 

Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust

Class A Shares

Institutional Service Shares

Institutional Shares

 

The undersigned hereby certify that the above stated Amendment is a true and correct Amendment to the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, as adopted by the Board of Trustees at a meeting on the 7th day of June, 2006.

 

WITNESS the due execution hereof this 7th day of June, 2006.

 

 

/s/ John F. Donahue      
John F. Donahue   Peter E. Madden  
       
    /s/ Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.  
Thomas G. Bigley   Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.  
       
/s/ John T. Conroy, Jr.   /s/ John E. Murray, Jr.  
John T. Conroy, Jr.   John E. Murray, Jr.  
       
/s/ Nicholas P. Constantakis   /s/ Marjorie P. Smuts  
Nicholas P. Constantakis   Marjorie P. Smuts  
       
       
John F. Cunningham   John S. Walsh  
       
/s/ J. Christopher Donahue   /s/ James F. Will  
J. Christopher Donahue   James F. Will  
       
       
Lawrence D. Ellis, M.D.      
 
 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

Amendment No. 8

to the

Amended & Restated

DECLARATION OF TRUST

Dated April 2, 1999

 

THIS Declaration of Trust is amended as follows:

 

Effective October 31, 2007:

 

Delete the Section 1, Names of Article I, Names and Definitions, in its entirety and replace with the following:

 

“Section 1. Name.

 

This Trust shall be known as the Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust.”

 

Delete subsection (b) from Section 2 Definitions of Article I, Names and Definitions, in its entirety and replace with the following:’

 

Section 2. Definitions.

 

(b) The “Trust” refers to the Federated Short- Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust.”

 

The undersigned hereby certify that the above stated Amendment is a true and correct Amendment to the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, as adopted by the Board of Trustees at a meeting on the 17th day of August, 2007.

 

WITNESS the due execution hereof this 17th day of August, 2007.

 

 

/s/ John F. Donahue   /s/ Peter E. Madden  
John F. Donahue   Peter E. Madden  
       
/s/ Thomas G. Bigley   /s/ Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.  
Thomas G. Bigley   Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.  
       
/s/ John T. Conroy, Jr.   /s/ John E. Murray, Jr.  
John T. Conroy, Jr.   John E. Murray, Jr.  
       
/s/ Nicholas P. Constantakis   /s/ Thomas M. O’Neill  
Nicholas P. Constantakis   Thomas M. O’Neill  
       
/s/ John F. Cunningham   /s/ Marjorie P. Smuts  
John F. Cunningham   Marjorie P. Smuts  
       
/s/ J. Christopher Donahue   /s/ John S. Walsh  
J. Christopher Donahue   John S. Walsh  
       
/s/ Lawrence D. Ellis, M.D.   /s/ James F. Will  
Lawrence D. Ellis, M.D.   James F. Will  
 
 

FEDERATED SHORT-INTERMEDIATE DURATION MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

Amendment No. 9

to the

Amended & Restated

DECLARATION OF TRUST

Dated April 2, 1999

 

THIS Declaration of Trust is amended as follows:

 

Delete the paragraph of Section 5, Establishment and Designation of Series or Class of Article III, Beneficial Interest , in its entirety and replace with the following:

 

Section 5. Establishment and Designation of Series or Class.

 

Without limiting the authority of the Trustees set forth in Article XII, Section 8, inter alia, to establish and designate any additional series or class or to modify the rights and preferences of any existing Series or Class, the series shall be, and is established and designated as:

 

Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

Class A Shares

Institutional Shares

Service Shares

 

The undersigned hereby certify that the above stated Amendment is a true and correct Amendment to the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, as adopted by the Board of Trustees at a meeting on the 13th day of May, 2011, to become effective on September 30, 2011.

 

Witness the due execution this 23rd day of August, 2011.

 

/s/ John F. Donahue   /s/ Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.  
John F. Donahue   Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.  
       
/s/ Nicholas P. Constantakis   /s/ R. James Nicholson  
Nicholas P. Constantakis   R. James Nicholson  
       
/s/ John F. Cunningham   /s/ Thomas M. O’Neill  
John F. Cunningham   Thomas M. O’Neill  
       
/s/ J. Christopher Donahue   /s/ John S. Walsh  
J. Christopher Donahue   John S. Walsh  
       
/s/ Maureen Lally-Green   /s/ James F. Will  
Maureen Lally-Green   James F. Will  
       
/s/ Peter E. Madden      
Peter E. Madden      

 

 
 

 

FEDERATED SHORT-INTERMEDIATE DURATION MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

Amendment No. 10 to the

AMENDED AND RESTATED DECLARATION OF TRUST

Dated April 2, 1999

 

The Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust is amended as follows:

 

A. Strike Section 1 of Article I from the Declaration of Trust and substitute in its place the following:

 

This Trust shall be known as FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-INTERMEDIATE DURATION MUNICIPAL TRUST, and the Trustees may conduct the business of the Trust under that name or any other name as they may determine from time to time.

 

B.                  Strike the first paragraph of Section 5 of Article III from the Declaration of Trust and substitute in its place the following:

 

Section 5. Establishment and Designation of Series or Class.

 

Without limiting the authority of the Trustees set forth in Article XII, Section 8, inter alia, to establish and designate any additional Series or Class or to modify the rights and preferences of any existing Series or Class, the Series shall be, and are established and designated as:

 

Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

Class A Shares

Institutional Shares

Service Shares

 

The undersigned hereby certify that the above-stated Amendments is a true and correct Amendment to the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, as adopted by the Board of Trustees at the meeting on the 13th day of February, 2020, to become effective on June 26, 2020.

 

WITNESS the due execution hereof this 19th day of June, 2020.

 

/s/ John T. Collins /s/ Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.
John T. Collins Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.
   
/s/ J. Christopher Donahue /s/ Thomas M. O’Neill
J. Christopher Donahue Thomas M. O’Neill
   
/s/ Thomas R. Donahue /s/ P. Jerome Richey
Thomas R. Donahue P. Jerome Richey
   
/s/ G. Thomas Hough /s/ John S. Walsh
G. Thomas Hough John S. Walsh
   
/s/ Maureen Lally-Green  
Maureen Lally-Green  

 

 
 

 

FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-INTERMEDIATE DURATION MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

Amendment No. 11

to the

Amended & Restated

DECLARATION OF TRUST

Dated April 2, 1999

 

THIS Declaration of Trust is amended as follows:

 

Delete the paragraph of Section 5, Establishment and Designation of Series or Class of Article III, Beneficial Interest , in its entirety and replace with the following:

 

Section 5. Establishment and Designation of Series or Class.

 

Without limiting the authority of the Trustees set forth in Article XII, Section 8, inter alia, to establish and designate any additional series or class or to modify the rights and preferences of any existing Series or Class, the series shall be, and is established and designated as:

 

Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

Class A Shares

Class A2 Shares

Institutional Shares

Service Shares

 

The undersigned hereby certify that the above stated Amendment is a true and correct Amendment to the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, as adopted by the Board of Trustees at a meeting on the 13th day of August, 2021, to become effective on November 17, 2021.

 

Witness the due execution this 13th day of August, 2021.

 

 

/s/ John T. Collins /s/ Thomas M. O’Neill
John T. Collins Thomas M. O’Neill
   
/s/ J. Christopher Donahue /s/ Madelyn A. Reilly
J. Christopher Donahue Madelyn A. Reilly
   
/s/ Thomas R. Donahue /s/ P. Jerome Richey
Thomas R. Donahue P. Jerome Richey
   
/s/ G. Thomas Hough /s/ John S. Walsh
G. Thomas Hough John S. Walsh
   
/s/ Maureen Lally-Green  
Maureen Lally-Green  

 

 

Exhibit 28 (e) under Form N-1A

Exhibit (1) under Item 601/REG. S-K

 

6/29/20 - Name changed to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

10/31/07 – Name changed to Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

12/15/94 - Name changed to Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust

 

SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

DISTRIBUTOR'S CONTRACT

 

AGREEMENT made this 1st day of June, 1993, by and between Short-Term Municipal Trust (the "Trust"), a Massachusetts business trust, and FEDERATED SECURITIES CORP. ("FSC"), a Pennsylvania Corporation.

 

In consideration of the mutual covenants hereinafter contained, it is hereby agreed by and between the parties hereto as follows:

 

1.       The Trust hereby appoints FSC as its agent to sell and distribute shares of the Trust which may be offered in one or more series (the "Funds") consisting of one or more classes (the "Classes") of shares (the "Shares"), as described and set forth on one or more exhibits to this Agreement, at the current offering price thereof as described and set forth in the current Prospectuses of the Trust. FSC hereby accepts such appointment and agrees to provide such other services for the Trust, if any, and accept such compensation from the Trust, if any, as set forth in the applicable exhibit to this Agreement.

 

2.       The sale of any Shares may be suspended without prior notice whenever in the judgment of the Trust it is in its best interest to do so.

 

3.       Neither FSC nor any other person is authorized by the Trust to give any information or to make any representation relative to any Shares other than those contained in the Registration Statement, Prospectuses, or Statements of Additional Information ("SAIs") filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as the same may be amended from time to time, or in any supplemental information to said Prospectuses or SAIs approved by the Trust. FSC agrees that any other information or representations other than those specified above which it or any dealer or other person who purchases Shares through FSC may make in connection with the offer or sale of Shares, shall be made entirely without liability on the part of the Trust. No person or dealer, other than FSC, is authorized to act as agent for the Trust for any purpose. FSC agrees that in offering or selling Shares as agent of the Trust, it will, in all respects, duly conform to all applicable state and federal laws and the rules and regulations of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., including its Rules of Fair Practice. FSC will submit to the Trust copies of all sales literature before using the same and will not use such sales literature if disapproved by the Trust.

 

4.       This Agreement is effective with respect to each Class as of the date of execution of the applicable exhibit and shall continue in effect with respect to each Class presently set forth on an exhibit and any subsequent Classes added pursuant to an exhibit during the initial term of this Agreement for one year from the date set forth above, and thereafter for successive periods of one year if such continuance is approved at least annually by the Trustees of the Trust including a majority of the members of the Board of Trustees of the Trust who are not interested persons of the Trust and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of any Distribution Plan relating to the Trust or in any related documents to such Plan ("Disinterested Trustees") cast in person at a meeting called for that purpose. If a Class is added after the first annual approval by the Trustees as described above, this Agreement will be effective as to that Class upon execution of the applicable exhibit and will continue in effect until the next annual approval of this Agreement by the Trustees and thereafter for successive periods of one year, subject to approval as described above.

 

5.       This Agreement may be terminated with regard to a particular Fund or Class at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by the vote of a majority of the Disinterested Trustees or by a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the particular Fund or Class on not more than sixty (60) days' written notice to any other party to this Agreement. This Agreement may be terminated with regard to a particular Fund or Class by FSC on sixty (60) days' written notice to the Trust.

 

6.       This Agreement may not be assigned by FSC and shall automatically terminate in the event of an assignment by FSC as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, provided, however, that FSC may employ such other person, persons, corporation or corporations as it shall determine in order to assist it in carrying out its duties under this Agreement.

 

7.       FSC shall not be liable to the Trust for anything done or omitted by it, except acts or omissions involving willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of the duties imposed by this Agreement.

 

8.       This Agreement may be amended at any time by mutual agreement in writing of all the parties hereto, provided that such amendment is approved by the Trustees of the Trust including a majority of the Disinterested Trustees of the Trust cast in person at a meeting called for that purpose.

 

9.       This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

 

10. (a) Subject to the conditions set forth below, the Trust agrees to indemnify and hold harmless FSC and each person, if any, who controls FSC within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 20 of the Securities Act of 1934, as amended, against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and expense whatsoever (including but not limited to any and all expenses whatsoever reasonably incurred in investigating, preparing or defending against any litigation, commenced or threatened, or any claim whatsoever) arising out of or based upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, any Prospectuses or SAIs (as from time to time amended and supplemented) or the omission or alleged omission therefrom of a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, unless such statement or omission was made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the Trust about FSC by or on behalf of FSC expressly for use in the Registration Statement, any Prospectuses and SAIs or any amendment or supplement thereof.

 

If any action is brought against FSC or any controlling person thereof with respect to which indemnity may be sought against the Trust pursuant to the foregoing paragraph, FSC shall promptly notify the Trust in writing of the institution of such action and the Trust shall assume the defense of such action, including the employment of counsel selected by the Trust and payment of expenses. FSC or any such controlling person thereof shall have the right to employ separate counsel in any such case, but the fees and expenses of such counsel shall be at the expense of FSC or such controlling person unless the employment of such counsel shall have been authorized in writing by the Trust in connection with the defense of such action or the Trust shall not have employed counsel to have charge of the defense of such action, in any of which events such fees and expenses shall be borne by the Trust. Anything in this paragraph to the contrary notwithstanding, the Trust shall not be liable for any settlement of any such claim of action effected without its written consent. The Trust agrees promptly to notify FSC of the commencement of any litigation or proceedings against the Trust or any of its officers or Trustees or controlling persons in connection with the issue and sale of Shares or in connection with the Registration Statement, Prospectuses, or SAIs.

 

(b)       FSC agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Trust, each of its Trustees, each of its officers who have signed the Registration Statement and each other person, if any, who controls the Trust within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, but only with respect to statements or omissions, if any, made in the Registration Statement or any Prospectus, SAI, or any amendment or supplement thereof in reliance upon, and in conformity with, information furnished to the Trust about FSC by or on behalf of FSC expressly for use in the Registration Statement or any Prospectus, SAI, or any amendment or supplement thereof. In case any action shall be brought against the Trust or any other person so indemnified based on the Registration Statement or any Prospectus, SAI, or any amendment or supplement thereof, and with respect to which indemnity may be sought against FSC, FSC shall have the rights and duties given to the Trust, and the Trust and each other person so indemnified shall have the rights and duties given to FSC by the provisions of subsection (a) above.

 

(c)       Nothing herein contained shall be deemed to protect any person against liability to the Trust or its shareholders to which such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of the duties of such person or by reason of the reckless disregard by such person of the obligations and duties of such person under this Agreement.

 

(d)       Insofar as indemnification for liabilities may be permitted pursuant to Section 17 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, for Trustees, officers, FSC and controlling persons of the Trust by the Trust pursuant to this Agreement, the Trust is aware of the position of the Securities and Exchange Commission as set forth in the Investment Company Act Release No. IC-11330. Therefore, the Trust undertakes that in addition to complying with the applicable provisions of this Agreement, in the absence of a final decision on the merits by a court or other body before which the proceeding was brought, that an indemnification payment will not be made unless in the absence of such a decision, a reasonable determination based upon factual review has been made (i) by a majority vote of a quorum of non-party Disinterested Trustees, or (ii) by independent legal counsel in a written opinion that the indemnitee was not liable for an act of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of duties. The Trust further undertakes that advancement of expenses incurred in the defense of a proceeding (upon undertaking for repayment unless it is ultimately determined that indemnification is appropriate) against an officer, Trustee, FSC or controlling person of the Trust will not be made absent the fulfillment of at least one of the following conditions: (i) the indemnitee provides security for his undertaking; (ii) the Trust is insured against losses arising by reason of any lawful advances; or (iii) a majority of a quorum of non-party Disinterested Trustees or independent legal counsel in a written opinion makes a factual determination that there is reason to believe the indemnitee will be entitled to indemnification.

 

11.       FSC is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of liability as set forth in Article XI of the Declaration of Trust and agrees that the obligations assumed by the Trust pursuant to this Agreement shall be limited in any case to the Trust and its assets and FSC shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the shareholders of the Trust, the Trustees, officers, employees or agents of the Trust, or any of them.

 

12.       If at any time the Shares of any Fund are offered in two or more Classes, FSC agrees to adopt compliance standards as to when a class of shares may be sold to particular investors.

 

13.       This Agreement will become binding on the parties hereto upon the execution of the attached exhibits to the Agreement.

6/29/20- Name changed to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

10/31/07 – Name changed to Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

12/15/94 - Name changed to Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust

 

Exhibit A

to the

Distributor's Contract

 

SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

Short-Term Municipal Trust

Institutional Shares

 

 

In consideration of the mutual covenants set forth in the Distributor's Contract dated June 1, 1993 between Short-Term Municipal Trust and Federated Securities Corp., Short-Term Municipal Trust executes and delivers this Exhibit on behalf of the Funds, and with respect to the separate Classes of Shares thereof, first set forth in this Exhibit.

 

 

Witness the due execution hereof this 1st day of June, 1993.

 

 

 

ATTEST: SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST
   
   
   
/s/ S. Elliott Cohan By: /s/ Glen R. Johnson
Secretary President
(SEAL)  
   
ATTEST: FEDERATED SECURITIES CORP.
   
   
/s/ S. Elliott Cohan By: /s/ John W. McGonigle
Secretary Executive Vice President
(SEAL)  

 

 
 

 

6/29/20- Name changed to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

9/30/11 – Institutional Service Shares renamed Service Shares

10/31/07 – Name changed to Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

12/15/94 - Name changed to Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust

 

Exhibit B

to the

Distributor's Contract

 

SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

Short-Term Municipal Trust

Institutional Service Shares

 

 

The following provisions are hereby incorporated and made part of the Distributor's Contract dated the 1st day of June, 1993, between Short-Term Municipal Trust and Federated Securities Corp. with respect to Classes of the Funds set forth above.

 

1.       The Trust hereby appoints FSC to engage in activities principally intended to result in the sale of shares of the above-listed Classes ("Shares"). Pursuant to this appointment, FSC is authorized to select a group of brokers ("Brokers") to sell Shares at the current offering price thereof as described and set forth in the respective prospectuses of the Trust, and to render administrative support services to the Trust and its shareholders. In addition, FSC is authorized to select a group of administrators ("Administrators") to render administrative support services to the Trust and its shareholders.

 

2.       Administrative support services may include, but are not limited to, the following functions: 1) account openings: the Broker or Administrator communicates account openings via computer terminals located on the Broker's or Administrator's premises; 2) account closings: the Broker or Administrator communicates account closings via computer terminals; 3) enter purchase transactions: purchase transactions are entered through the Broker's or Administrator's own personal computer or through the use of a toll-free telephone number; 4) enter redemption transactions: Broker or Administrator enters redemption transactions in the same manner as purchases; 5) account maintenance: Broker or Administrator provides or arranges to provide accounting support for all transactions. Broker or Administrator also wires funds and receives funds for Trust share purchases and redemptions, confirms and reconciles all transactions, reviews the activity in the Trust's accounts, and provides training and supervision of its personnel; 6) interest posting: Broker or Administrator posts and reinvests dividends to the Trust's accounts; 7) prospectus and shareholder reports: Broker or Administrator maintains and distributes current copies of prospectuses and shareholder reports; 8) advertisements: the Broker or Administrator continuously advertises the availability of its services and products; 9) customer lists: the Broker or Administrator continuously provides names of potential customers; 10) design services: the Broker or Administrator continuously designs material to send to customers and develops methods of making such materials accessible to customers; and 11) consultation services: the Broker or Administrator continuously provides information about the product needs of customers.

 

3.       During the term of this Agreement, the Trust will pay FSC for services pursuant to this Agreement, a monthly fee computed at the annual rate of 0.25 of 1% of the average aggregate net asset value of the shares of the Short-Term Municipal Trust Institutional Service Shares held during the month. For the month in which this Agreement becomes effective or terminates, there shall be an appropriate proration of any fee payable on the basis of the number of days that the Agreement is in effect during the month.

 

4.       FSC may from time-to-time and for such periods as it deems appropriate reduce its compensation to the extent any Classes' expenses exceed such lower expense limitation as FSC may, by notice to the Trust, voluntarily declare to be effective.

 

5.       FSC will enter into separate written agreements with various firms to provide certain of the services set forth in Paragraph 1 herein. FSC, in its sole discretion, may pay Brokers and Administrators a periodic fee in respect of Shares owned from time to time by their clients or customers. The schedules of such fees and the basis upon which such fees will be paid shall be determined from time to time by FSC in its sole discretion.

 

6.       FSC will prepare reports to the Board of Trustees of the Trust on a quarterly basis showing amounts expended hereunder including amounts paid to Brokers and Administrators and the purpose for such payments.

 

In consideration of the mutual covenants set forth in the Distributor's Contract dated June 1, 1993 between Short-Term Municipal Trust and Federated Securities Corp., Short-Term Municipal Trust executes and delivers this Exhibit on behalf of the Funds, and with respect to the separate Classes of Shares thereof, first set forth in this Exhibit.

Witness the due execution hereof this 1st day of June, 1993.

 

ATTEST: SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST
   
/s/ S. Elliott Cohan By: /s/ Glen R. Johnson
Secretary President
(SEAL)  
   
ATTEST: FEDERATED SECURITIES CORP.
   
/s/ S. Elliott Cohan By: /s/ John W. McGonigle
Secretary Executive Vice President
(SEAL)  
 
 

 

 

6/29/20- Name changed to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

10/31/07 – Name changes to Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

12/15/94 - Name changed to Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust

 

Exhibit C

to the

Distributor's Contract

 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

Class A Shares

 

The following provisions are hereby incorporated and made part of the Distributor's Contract dated the 1st day of June, 1993, between Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust and Federated Securities Corp. with respect to Classes of the Funds set forth above.

1.       The Trust hereby appoints FSC to engage in activities principally intended to result in the sale of shares of the above-listed Classes ("Shares"). Pursuant to this appointment, FSC is authorized to select a group of brokers ("Brokers") to sell Shares at the current offering price thereof as described and set forth in the respective prospectuses of the Trust, and to render administrative support services to the Trust and its shareholders. In addition, FSC is authorized to select a group of administrators ("Administrators") to render administrative support services to the Trust and its shareholders.

 

2.       Administrative support services may include, but are not limited to, the following functions: 1) account openings: the Broker or Administrator communicates account openings via computer terminals located on the Broker's or Administrator's premises; 2) account closings: the Broker or Administrator communicates account closings via computer terminals; 3) enter purchase transactions: purchase transactions are entered through the Broker's or Administrator's own personal computer or through the use of a toll-free telephone number; 4) enter redemption transactions: Broker or Administrator enters redemption transactions in the same manner as purchases; 5) account maintenance: Broker or Administrator provides or arranges to provide accounting support for all transactions. Broker or Administrator also wires funds and receives funds for Trust share purchases and redemptions, confirms and reconciles all transactions, reviews the activity in the Trust's accounts, and provides training and supervision of its personnel; 6) interest posting: Broker or Administrator posts and reinvests dividends to the Trust's accounts; 7) prospectus and shareholder reports: Broker or Administrator maintains and distributes current copies of prospectuses and shareholder reports; 8) advertisements: the Broker or Administrator continuously advertises the availability of its services and products; 9) customer lists: the Broker or Administrator continuously provides names of potential customers; 10) design services: the Broker or Administrator continuously designs material to send to customers and develops methods of making such materials accessible to customers; and 11) consultation services: the Broker or Administrator continuously provides information about the product needs of customers.

 

3.       During the term of this Agreement, the Trust will pay FSC for services pursuant to this Agreement, a monthly fee computed at the annual rate of 0.25 of 1% of the average aggregate net asset value of the shares of the Class A Shares held during the month. For the month in which this Agreement becomes effective or terminates, there shall be an appropriate proration of any fee payable on the basis of the number of days that the Agreement is in effect during the month.

 

4.       FSC may from time-to-time and for such periods as it deems appropriate reduce its compensation to the extent any Classes' expenses exceed such lower expense limitation as FSC may, by notice to the Trust, voluntarily declare to be effective.

 

5.       FSC will enter into separate written agreements with various firms to provide certain of the services set forth in Paragraph 1 herein. FSC, in its sole discretion, may pay Brokers and Administrators a periodic fee in respect of Shares owned from time to time by their clients or customers. The schedules of such fees and the basis upon which such fees will be paid shall be determined from time to time by FSC in its sole discretion.

 

6.       FSC will prepare reports to the Board of Trustees of the Trust on a quarterly basis showing amounts expended hereunder including amounts paid to Brokers and Administrators and the purpose for such payments.

 

In consideration of the mutual covenants set forth in the Distributor's Contract dated June 1, 1993 between Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust and Federated Securities Corp., Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust executes and delivers this Exhibit on behalf of the Funds, and with respect to theClass A Shares thereof, first set forth in this Exhibit.

 

Witness the due execution hereof this 1st day of July, 2006.

 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

By: /s/ John B. Fisher

Name: John B. Fisher

Title: President

 

FEDERATED SECURITIES CORP.

 

By: /s/ Thomas E. Territ

Name: Thomas E. Territ

Title: President

 

 
 

 

Exhibit D

to the

Distributor's Contract

 

FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-INTERMEDIATE DURATION MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-INTERMEDIATE MUNICIPAL FUND

 

Class A2 Shares

 

The following provisions are hereby incorporated and made part of the Distributor's Contract dated the 1st day of June, 1993, between Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust and Federated Securities Corp. with respect to Classes of the Funds set forth above.

1.       The Trust hereby appoints FSC to engage in activities principally intended to result in the sale of shares of the above-listed Classes ("Shares"). Pursuant to this appointment, FSC is authorized to select a group of brokers ("Brokers") to sell Shares at the current offering price thereof as described and set forth in the respective prospectuses of the Trust, and to render administrative support services to the Trust and its shareholders. In addition, FSC is authorized to select a group of administrators ("Administrators") to render administrative support services to the Trust and its shareholders.

 

2.       Administrative support services may include, but are not limited to, the following functions: 1) account openings: the Broker or Administrator communicates account openings via computer terminals located on the Broker's or Administrator's premises; 2) account closings: the Broker or Administrator communicates account closings via computer terminals; 3) enter purchase transactions: purchase transactions are entered through the Broker's or Administrator's own personal computer or through the use of a toll-free telephone number; 4) enter redemption transactions: Broker or Administrator enters redemption transactions in the same manner as purchases; 5) account maintenance: Broker or Administrator provides or arranges to provide accounting support for all transactions. Broker or Administrator also wires funds and receives funds for Trust share purchases and redemptions, confirms and reconciles all transactions, reviews the activity in the Trust's accounts, and provides training and supervision of its personnel; 6) interest posting: Broker or Administrator posts and reinvests dividends to the Trust's accounts; 7) prospectus and shareholder reports: Broker or Administrator maintains and distributes current copies of prospectuses and shareholder reports; 8) advertisements: the Broker or Administrator continuously advertises the availability of its services and products; 9) customer lists: the Broker or Administrator continuously provides names of potential customers; 10) design services: the Broker or Administrator continuously designs material to send to customers and develops methods of making such materials accessible to customers; and 11) consultation services: the Broker or Administrator continuously provides information about the product needs of customers.

 

3.       During the term of this Agreement, the Trust will pay FSC for services pursuant to this Agreement, a monthly fee computed at the annual rate of 0.25 of 1% of the average aggregate net asset value of the shares of the Class A2 Shares held during the month. For the month in which this Agreement becomes effective or terminates, there shall be an appropriate proration of any fee payable on the basis of the number of days that the Agreement is in effect during the month.

 

4.       FSC may from time-to-time and for such periods as it deems appropriate reduce its compensation to the extent any Classes' expenses exceed such lower expense limitation as FSC may, by notice to the Trust, voluntarily declare to be effective.

 

5.       FSC will enter into separate written agreements with various firms to provide certain of the services set forth in Paragraph 1 herein. FSC, in its sole discretion, may pay Brokers and Administrators a periodic fee in respect of Shares owned from time to time by their clients or customers. The schedules of such fees and the basis upon which such fees will be paid shall be determined from time to time by FSC in its sole discretion.

 

6.       FSC will prepare reports to the Board of Trustees of the Trust on a quarterly basis showing amounts expended hereunder including amounts paid to Brokers and Administrators and the purpose for such payments.

 

In consideration of the mutual covenants set forth in the Distributor's Contract dated June 1, 1993 between Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust and Federated Securities Corp., Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust executes and delivers this Exhibit on behalf of the Funds, and with respect to the Class A2 Shares thereof, first set forth in this Exhibit.

 

Witness the due execution hereof this 1st day of September, 2021.

 

FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-INTERMEDIATE DURATION MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

By:

Name: John B. Fisher

Title: President

 

 

FEDERATED SECURITIES CORP.

 

By:

Name: Paul A. Uhlman

Title: President

 
 

Amendment to

Distributor’s Contract

between

Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust

and

Federated Securities Corp.

 

This Amendment to the Distributor’s Contract (“Agreement”) dated June 1, 1993, between Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust (“Fund”) and Federated Securities Corp. (“Service Provider”) is made and entered into as of the 1st day of June, 2001.

 

WHEREAS, the Fund has entered into the Agreement with the Service Provider;

 

WHEREAS, the Securities and Exchange Commission has adopted Regulation S-P at 17 CFR Part 248 to protect the privacy of individuals who obtain a financial product or service for personal, family or household use;

 

WHEREAS, Regulation S-P permits financial institutions, such as the Fund, to disclose ”nonpublic personal information” (“NPI”) of its “customers” and “consumers” (as those terms are therein defined in Regulation S-P) to affiliated and nonaffiliated third parties of the Fund, without giving such customers and consumers the ability to opt out of such disclosure, for the limited purposes of processing and servicing transactions (17 CFR § 248.14) (“Section 248.14 NPI”); for specified law enforcement and miscellaneous purposes (17 CFR § 248.15) (“Section 248.15 NPI”) ; and to service providers or in connection with joint marketing arrangements (17 CFR § 248.13) (“Section 248.13 NPI”);

 

WHEREAS, Regulation S-P provides that the right of a customer and consumer to opt out of having his or her NPI disclosed pursuant to 17 CFR § 248.7 and 17 CFR § 248.10 does not apply when the NPI is disclosed to service providers or in connection with joint marketing arrangements, provided the Fund and third party enter into a contractual agreement that prohibits the third party from disclosing or using the information other than to carry out the purposes for which the Fund disclosed the information (17 CFR § 248.13);

 

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties intending to be legally bound agree as follows:

 

1. The Fund and the Service Provider hereby acknowledge that the Fund may disclose shareholder NPI to the Service Provider as agent of the Fund and solely in furtherance of fulfilling the Service Provider’s contractual obligations under the Agreement in the ordinary course of business to support the Fund and its shareholders.
 
 

 

2. The Service Provider hereby agrees to be bound to use and redisclose such NPI only for the limited purpose of fulfilling its duties and obligations under the Agreement, for law enforcement and miscellaneous purposes as permitted in 17 CFR §§ 248.15, or in connection with joint marketing arrangements that the Funds may establish with the Service Provider in accordance with the limited exception set forth in 17 CFR § 248.13.

 

3. The Service Provider further represents and warrants that, in accordance with 17 CFR § 248.30, it has implemented, and will continue to carry out for the term of the Agreement, policies and procedures reasonably designed to:
· insure the security and confidentiality of records and NPI of Fund customers,
· protect against any anticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of Fund customer records and NPI, and
· protect against unauthorized access to or use of such Fund customer records or NPI that could result in substantial harm or inconvenience to any Fund customer.

 

4. The Service Provider may redisclose Section 248.13 NPI only to: (a) the Funds and affiliated persons of the Funds (“Fund Affiliates”); (b) affiliated persons of the Service Provider (“Service Provider Affiliates”) (which in turn may disclose or use the information only to the extent permitted under the original receipt); (c) a third party not affiliated with the Service Provider of the Funds (“Nonaffiliated Third Party”) under the service and processing (§248.14) or miscellaneous (§248.15) exceptions, but only in the ordinary course of business to carry out the activity covered by the exception under which the Service Provider received the information in the first instance; and (d) a Nonaffiliated Third Party under the service provider and joint marketing exception (§248.13), provided the Service Provider enters into a written contract with the Nonaffiliated Third Party that prohibits the Nonaffiliated Third Party from disclosing or using the information other than to carry out the purposes for which the Funds disclosed the information in the first instance.

 

5. The Service Provider may redisclose Section 248.14 NPI and Section 248.15 NPI to: (a) the Funds and Fund Affiliates; (b) Service Provider Affiliates (which in turn may disclose the information to the same extent permitted under the original receipt); and (c) a Nonaffiliated Third Party to whom the Funds might lawfully have disclosed NPI directly.

 

6. The Service Provider is obligated to maintain beyond the termination date of the Agreement the confidentiality of any NPI it receives from the Fund in connection with the Agreement or any joint marketing arrangement, and hereby agrees that this Amendment shall survive such termination.
 
 

WITNESS the due execution hereof this 1st day of June, 2001.

 

Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust

 

By: /s/ J. Christopher Donahue

Name: J. Christopher Donahue

Title: President

 

 

Federated Securities Corp.

 

 

By: /s/ David M. Taylor

Name: David M. Taylor

Title: Executive Vice President

 

 

 
 

Amendment to

Distributor’s Contracts

between

the Federated Funds

and

Federated Securities Corp.

 

This Amendment to the Distributor’s Contracts (each an “Agreement” and together, the “Agreements”) between the Federated Funds listed on Exhibit A, (each a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”) and Federated Securities Corp. (“Distributor”) is made and entered into as of the 1st day of October, 2003.

 

WHEREAS, each Fund has entered into an Agreement with the Distributor under and pursuant to which the Distributor is the principal underwriter of the shares of the Fund;

 

WHEREAS, the Securities and Exchange Commission and the United States Treasury Department (“Treasury Department”) have adopted a series of rules and regulations arising out of the USA PATRIOT Act (together with such rules and regulations, the “Applicable Law”), specifically requiring certain financial institutions, including the Funds and the Distributor, to establish a written anti-money laundering and customer identification program (“Program”);

 

WHEREAS, each of the Funds and the Distributor have established a Program and wish to amend the Agreements to reflect the existence of such Programs and confirm the allocation of responsibility for the performance of certain required functions;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties intending to be legally bound agree and amend each Agreement as follows:

 

1. The Funds and the Distributor each represent, warrant and certify that they have established, and covenant that at all times during the existence of each respective Agreement they will maintain, a Program in compliance with Applicable Law.
2. The Funds each represent and warrant that the Funds have entered into an amendment to the agreement with the transfer agent of the Funds, pursuant to which the transfer agent has agreed to perform all activities, including the establishment and verification of customer identities as required by Applicable Law or its Program, with respect to all customers on whose behalf Distributor maintains an account with the Funds.
3. Distributor covenants that it will enter into appropriate amendments to selling or other agreements with financial institutions that establish and maintain accounts with the Funds on behalf of their customers, pursuant to which such financial institutions covenant to establish and maintain a Program with respect to those customers in accordance with Applicable Law.

 

In all other respects, each Agreement first referenced above shall remain in full force and effect.

 

WITNESS the due execution hereof as of the 1st day of October, 2003.

 

FUNDS

 

By: /s/ John W. McGonigle

Name: John W. McGonigle

Title: Executive Vice President

 

 

federated Securities Corp.

 

By: /s/ James F. Getz

Name: James F. Getz

Title: President - Broker/Dealer

 
 

EXHIBIT A

 

Funds Distributor’s Contract Date
   
Cash Trust Series, Inc. March 1, 1993
Cash Trust Series II January 25, 1991
Edward Jones Money Market Fund April 1, 2001
Edward Jones Tax-Free Money Market Fund March 1, 2001
Federated Adjustable Rate Securities Fund April 24, 1992
Federated American Leaders Fund, Inc. March 1, 1993
Federated Equity Funds June 1, 1995
Federated Equity Income Fund, Inc. March 1, 1993
Federated Fixed Income Securities Fund, Inc. December 24, 1991
Federated GNMA Trust May 29, 1992
Federated Government Income Securities, Inc. July 17, 1996
Federated High Income Bond Fund, Inc. March 1, 1993
Federated High Yield Trust August 1, 1989
Federated Income Securities Trust December 31, 1991
Federated Income Trust June 1, 1992
Federated Index Trust September 3, 1991
Federated Institutional Trust September 1, 1994
Federated Insurance Series December 1, 1993
Federated International Series, Inc. February 11, 1991
Federated Investment Series Funds, Inc. June 22, 1992
Federated Limited Duration Government Fund, Inc. July 22, 1991
Federated Managed Allocation Portfolios December 1, 1993
Federated Municipal Opportunities Fund, Inc. July 17, 1996
Federated Municipal Securities Fund, Inc. March 1, 1993
Federated Municipal Securities Income Trust September 9, 1991
Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust June 1, 1993
Federated Stock and Bond Fund, Inc. March 1, 1993
Federated Stock Trust August 1, 1989
Federated Total Return Government Bond Fund September 1, 1995
Federated Total Return Series, Inc. December 1, 1993
Federated U.S. Government Bond Fund August 1, 1989
Federated U.S. Government Securities Fund:  1-3 Years May 29, 1992
Federated U.S. Government Securities Fund:  2-5 Years May 29, 1992
Federated World Investment Series, Inc. March 1, 1994
Intermediate Municipal Trust June 1, 1993
Money Market Obligations Trust March 1, 1994

 


Exhibit 28 (h) (1) (a) under Form N-1A
Exhibit 10 under Item 601/Reg. S-K

 

SERVICES AGREEMENT

THIS AGREEMENT, dated and effective as of January 1, 2004 (this “Agreement”) between FEDERATED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a Delaware statutory trust (the “Adviser”), and FEDERATED ADVISORY SERVICES COMPANY, a Delaware statutory trust (“FASC”),

WITNESSETH:

WHEREAS, the Adviser serves pursuant to advisory or subadvisory agreements (“Advisory Agreements”) as investment advisor or subadvisor to investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) and/or separate accounts not required to be so registered (collectively, “Accounts”); and

WHEREAS, the Adviser desires to engage FASC to provide certain services to Adviser in connection with the services to be provided by the Adviser under the Advisory Agreements;

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound, agree as follows:

1. Services. FASC agrees to provide to the Adviser the services indicated in Exhibit A to this Agreement (the “Services”).

2. Fees. For its Services under this Agreement, Adviser agrees to pay FASC the Services Fees calculated and payable in accordance with Exhibit B to this Agreement.

3. Records. FASC shall create and maintain all necessary books and records in accordance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations, including but not limited to records required by Section 31(a) of the 1940 Act and the rules thereunder, as the same may be amended from time to time, pertaining to the Services performed by it and not otherwise created and maintained by another party. Where applicable, such records shall be maintained by FASC for the periods and in the places required by Rule 31a-2 under the 1940 Act. The books and records pertaining to any Account which are in the possession of FAS shall be the property of such Account. The Account, or its owners or authorized representatives, shall have access to such books and records at all times during FASC's normal business hours. Upon reasonable request, copies of any such books and records shall be provided promptly by FASC to the Account or the Account's owners or authorized representatives.

4. Limitation of Liability and Indemnification.

(a) FASC shall not be responsible for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Advisor or any Account in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful malfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by it of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.

(b) The Adviser shall indemnify FASC and shall hold FASC harmless from and against any liability to any Account or to any other person which may incurred by or asserted against FASC for any action taken or omitted by it in performing the Services in accordance with the above standards, and any expenses (including the reasonable fees and expenses of its counsel) which may be incurred by FASC in investigating or defending itself against the assertion of any such liability. FASC shall give prompt notice to the Adviser of the assertion of any claim or liability which is reasonably likely to result in a claim for indemnification under this Section; provided that the failure to give such notice, or any delay in giving such notice, shall not lessen the obligation of the Adviser to indemnify FASC except to the extent it results in actual prejudice. The Adviser shall have the option, by notice to FASC, to assume the defense of any claim which may be the subject of indemnification hereunder. In the event such notice is given, the Adviser shall assume the defense of the claim, and FASC shall cooperate with the Adviser in such defense, subject to the obligation of the Adviser to reimburse FASC for the expenses resulting therefrom. In the event Adviser gives notice that it will assume the defense of any claim, the Adviser shall not be obligated to indemnify FASC for any further legal or other expenses incurred in investigating or defending such claim, except those incurred at the request of the Adviser or its counsel. FASC shall in no event compromise or settle any claim for which it may seek indemnification hereunder, except with the prior written consent of the Adviser or unless the Adviser fails, within 30 days after notice of the terms of such settlement, to notify FASC that it has assumed the defense of such claim and will indemnify FASC for any liability resulting therefrom.

(c) The Adviser and FASC are each hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of liability set forth in the Declaration of Trust of the other party. Each party agrees that the obligations of the other party pursuant to this Agreement shall be limited solely to such party and its assets, and neither party shall seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the shareholders, trustees, officers, employees or agents of the other party, or any of them.

5. Duration and Termination.

(a) Subject to the remaining provisions of this Section, the term of this Agreement shall begin on the effective date first above written and shall continue until terminated by mutual agreement of the parties hereto or by either party on not less than 60 days’ written notice to the other party hereto.

(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent that the Services to be provided with respect to any Account which is registered as an investment company under the 1940 Act (herein referred to as a “registered investment company”) are services referred to in the definition of “investment advisor” under Section 202(a)(11) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (herein referred to as “investment advisory services”), then with respect to such Account, this Agreement:

(i) shall not commence until the effective date of its approval by the board of directors or trustees (“Board”) of such Account;

(ii) shall continue from year to year thereafter, subject to the provisions for termination and all other terms and conditions hereof, only if such continuation shall be specifically approved at least annually by a majority of the Board, including a majority of the members of the Board who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party (other than as members of the Board) cast in person at a meeting called for that purpose;

(iii) may be terminated at any time without the payment of any penalty by the Board or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as defined in Section 2(a)(42) of the 1940 Act) of the Account on 60 days’ written notice to the Adviser;

(iv) shall automatically terminate in the event of (A) its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act) or (B) termination of the Advisory Agreement for any reason whatsoever.

6. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended at any time by mutual written agreement of the parties hereto; provided, however, that no Amendment to this Agreement shall be effective with respect to any investment advisory services to be provided to any Account which is registered investment company unless, to the extent required by Section 15(a)(2) of the 1940 Act, such amendment has been approved both by the vote of a majority of the Board of the Account, including a majority of the members of the Board who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party (other than as members of the Board), cast in person at a meeting called for that purpose and, where required by Section 15(a)(2) of the 1940 Act, on behalf of the Account by a majority of the outstanding voting securities of such Account as defined in Section 2(a)(42) of the 1940 Act.

7. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

8. Section Headings; Counterparts. The underlined Section headings in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only and shall not affect its construction or interpretation. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which will be deemed to be an original copy of this Agreement and all of which, when taken together, will be deemed to constitute one and the same agreement.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto, through their duly authorized officers, have executed this Agreement as of the effective date first above written.

FEDERATED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY

By: /s/ G. Andrew Bonnewell

Name: G. Andrew Bonnewell

Title: Vice President

FEDERATED ADVISORY SERVICES COMPANY

By: /s/ Keith M. Schappert

Name: Keith M. Schappert

Title: President

 

 
 

EXHIBIT A

DESCRIPTION OF SERVICES

The following are the categories of Services to be provided by FASC to the Adviser pursuant to the Agreement:

1.         Performance attribution.  Performance attribution enables portfolio managers and senior management to identify the specific drivers behind each portfolio’s performance.  Performance attribution analysts are responsible for data integrity, creation of attribution reports and maintenance of attribution models.
2.         Administration and Risk Management.  Employees of Federated Advisory Services Company provide support to portfolio managers and other employees of affiliated advisers.  Such services may include development of risk management programs, production of portfolio and compliance reports for clients and/or fund Boards, completion of required broker and custody documentation, development and documentation of operational procedures, coordination of proxy voting activities, on-site support of hardware and software, etc.

 

Categories 1 and 2 above shall not be treated as “investment advisory services” for purposes of Section 5(b) of the Agreement.

 

 
 

EXHIBIT B

CALCULATION AND PAYMENT OF SERVICES FEES

For each Category of Services referenced in Exhibit A, Adviser shall pay FASC a Services Fee, payable monthly in arrears, determined according to the following formula:

Services Fee = Cost of Services x Adviser’s Assets under Management
Total Assets Under Management
x (1 + Applicable Margin)

 

Where:

“Cost of Services” is FASC’s total Operating Costs incurred in providing the applicable Category of Services during the month to all investment advisers for which FASC provides that Category of Services.

“Adviser’s Assets under Management” is the total average assets under management for the month for all Accounts or portions thereof for which the Adviser acts as investment adviser or subadvisor and which utilize the Category of Services.

“Total Assets under Management” is the total average assets under management for the month for all Accounts or portions thereof for which all investment advisers (including the Adviser) to which FASC provides that Category of Services act as investment adviser or subadviser and which utilize the Category of Services.

“Applicable Margin” is 0.10.

“Operating Costs” means all operating expenses and non-operating expenses of FASC for the cost center(s) providing the applicable Category of Services.

 
 

AMENDMENT TO SERVICES AGREEMENT

This AMENDMENT TO SERVICES AGREEMENT, dated and effective as of March 30, 2009 (this “Amendment”), is made between FEDERATED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a Delaware statutory trust (the “Adviser”), and FEDERATED ADVISORY SERVICES COMPANY, a Delaware statutory trust (“FASC”). Capitalized terms used, but not defined, in this Amendment have the meanings given to such terms in the Services Agreement (as defined below).

RECITALS

WHEREAS, the Adviser and FASC have entered into that certain Services Agreement dated as of January 1, 2004 (as amended, the “Services Agreement”), pursuant to which FASC provides certain performance attribution, administration and risk management, equity trading and transaction settlement, fundamental analysis, and quantitative analysis services to Adviser in connection with Adviser providing investment advisory or sub-advisory services to investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) and/or separate accounts not required to be so registered (collectively, “Accounts”); and

WHEREAS, the Adviser and FASC desire to amend the Services indicated in Exhibit A to the Services Agreement, solely with respect to Accounts that are not investment companies registered under the 1940 Act, to provide that, as part of the administration and risk management services provided by FASC, FASC may provide certain coordination of client portfolios and related fixed income trade execution implementation and administration services to Adviser when Adviser is acting as adviser or sub-adviser with respect to such Accounts.

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound, agree as follows:

1.       Amendment to Exhibit A to Services Agreement. Solely with respect to Accounts that are not investment companies registered under the 1940 Act, the section of Exhibit A to the Services Agreement entitled “Administration and Risk Management” shall be, and hereby is, deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

“2. Administration and Risk Management. Employees of Federated Advisory Services Company provide support to portfolio managers and other employees of affiliated advisers. Such services may include development of risk management programs, production of portfolio and compliance reports for clients and/or fund Boards, coordination of client portfolios and related fixed income trade execution implementation and administration, completion of required broker and custody documentation, development and documentation of operational procedures, coordination of proxy voting activities, on-site support of hardware and software, etc.”

2.       Miscellaneous. This Amendment shall be effective as of the date first above written upon its execution and delivery by each of the parties hereto. The Services Agreement, as amended by this Amendment with respect to Accounts that are not investment companies registered under the 1940 Act, shall remain in full force and effect. The Services Agreement also shall remain in full force and effect without amendment with respect to Accounts that are investment companies under the 1940 Act. This Amendment shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This Amendment may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which will be deemed to be an original copy of this Amendment and all of which, when taken together, will be deemed to constitute one and the same agreement.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto, through their duly authorized officers, have executed this Amendment as of the date first above written.

 

FEDERATED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY FEDERATED ADVISORY SERVICES COMPANY
By:  /s/ John B. Fisher By:  /s/ J. Christopher Donahue
Name:  John B. Fisher Name:  J. Christopher Donahue
Title:  President Title:  Chairman

 

 
 

 

SECOND AMENDMENT TO SERVICES AGREEMENT

 

This SECOND AMENDMENT TO SERVICES AGREEMENT, dated and effective as of March 1, 2016, (this “Second Amendment”), is made between FEDERATED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a Delaware statutory trust (the “Adviser”), and FEDERATED ADVISORY SERVICES COMPANY, a Delaware statutory trust (“FASC”). Capitalized terms used, but not defined, in this Amendment have the meanings given to such terms in the Services Agreement (as defined below).

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS, the Adviser and FASC have entered into that certain Services Agreement dated as of January 1, 2004 (as amended, the “Services Agreement”), pursuant to which FASC provides certain performance attribution and administration and risk management services to Adviser in connection with Adviser providing investment advisory or sub-advisory services to investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”) and/or separate accounts not required to be so registered (collectively, “Accounts”);

 

WHEREAS, the Adviser and FASC have entered into the Amendment to Services Agreement dated as of March 30, 2009 (the “Amendment”), pursuant to which the Services indicated in Exhibit A to the Services Agreement were amended solely with respect to Accounts that are not investment companies registered under the 1940 Act, to provide that, as part of the administration and risk management services provided by FASC, FASC may provide certain coordination of client portfolios and related fixed income trade execution implementation and administration services to Adviser when Adviser is acting as adviser or sub-adviser with respect to such Accounts; and

 

WHEREAS, the Adviser and FASC desire to amend the Services indicated in Exhibit A to the Services Agreement, as amended, solely with respect to Accounts for which the Adviser trades in equity securities, equity derivatives and other related equity investments as part of the investment strategy for the Account, to provide that FASC may provide equity trading and transaction settlement, fundamental analysis and quantitative analysis services to Adviser when Adviser is acting as adviser or sub-adviser with respect to such Accounts.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound, agree as follows:

 

1.       Second Amendment to Exhibit A to Services Agreement. Exhibit A to the Services Agreement shall be, and here by is, supplemented with the following:

 

“3. Equity Trading and Transaction Settlement. The equity trading desks execute buy and sell order based on instructions provided by affiliated advisers. The trading staff either places orders electronically or contacts brokers to place orders, find liquidity and seek price levels. Upon completion of a transaction, the transaction settlement group works with the broker and the account custodian to ensure timely and accurate exchange of securities and monies.

 

4. Fundamental Analysis. The equity investment analysts provide independent research and analysis of specific companies within a sector. Typically, analysis includes review of published reports, interviews of company management, on-site observation of company operations, and the use of various financial models. In addition, analysts read trade journals, attend industry conferences, and focus on trends within the sector and industry. Based on this proprietary analysis, the analyst makes buy, sell or hold recommendations to the Adviser.

 

5. Quantitative Analysis. Quantitative analysts develop and apply financial models designed to enable equity portfolio managers and fundamental analysts to screen potential and current investments, assess relative risk and enhance performance relative to benchmarks and peers.

 

To the extent that such services are to be provided with respect to any Account which is a registered investment company, Categories 3, 4 and 5 above shall be treated as “investment advisory services” for purposes of Section 5(b) of the Agreement.”

 

2.       Miscellaneous. This Second Amendment shall be effective as of the date first above written upon its execution and delivery by each of the parties hereto. The Services Agreement, as amended by the Amendment and this Second Amendment with respect to Accounts for which the Adviser trades in equity securities, equity derivatives and other related equity investments as part of the investment strategy for the Account, shall remain in full force and effect. The Services Agreement, as amended by the Amendment, also shall remain in full force and effect without this Second Amendment with respect to Accounts for which the Adviser does not trade in equity securities, equity derivatives and other related equity investments as part of the investment strategy for the Account. This Second Amendment shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This Second Amendment may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which will be deemed to be an original copy of this Second Amendment and all of which, when taken together, will be deemed to constitute one and the same agreement.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto, through their duly authorized officers, have executed this Second Amendment as of the date first above written.

 

 

FEDERATED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY FEDERATED ADVISORY SERVICES COMPANY
By:  /s/ John B. Fisher By:  /s/ J. Christopher Donahue
Name:  John B. Fisher Name:  J. Christopher Donahue
Title:  President Title:  Chairman

 

 

 

 

 
 

LIMITED POWER OF ATTORNEY

KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, dated as of January 1, 2004, that FEDERATED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY, a statutory trust duly organized under the laws of the State of Delaware (the “Adviser”), does hereby nominate, constitute and appoint FEDERATED ADVISORY SERVICES COMPANY, a statutory trust duly organized under the laws of the State of Delaware ("FASC"), to act hereunder as the true and lawful agent and attorney-in-fact of the Adviser, acting on behalf of each of the funds or accounts for which Adviser acts as investment adviser or subadviser shown on Schedule 1 attached hereto and incorporated by reference herein (each such fund or account being hereinafter referred to as a "Fund" and collectively as the "Funds"), for the specific purpose of executing and delivering all such agreements, instruments, contracts, assignments, bond powers, stock powers, transfer instructions, receipts, waivers, consents and other documents, and performing all such acts, as Adviser, or FASC acting as agent for the Adviser pursuant to the Services Agreement dated as of January 1, 2004 between the Adviser and FASC (such agreement, as may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time is hereinafter referred to as the “Services Agreement”), may deem necessary or reasonably desirable, related to the acquisition, disposition and/or reinvestment of the funds and assets of a Fund in accordance with Adviser's supervision of the investment, sale and reinvestment of the funds and assets of each Fund pursuant to the authority granted to the Adviser as investment adviser or subadviser of each Fund under the Adviser’s investment advisory or subadvisory contract for such Fund (such investment advisory or subadvisory contract, as may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time is hereinafter referred to as the "Investment Advisory Contract").

The Adviser hereby ratifies and confirms as good and effectual, at law or in equity, all that FASC, and its officers and employees, may do by virtue hereof. However, despite the above provisions, nothing herein shall be construed as imposing a duty on FASC to act or assume responsibility for any matters referred to above or other matters even though FASC may have power or authority hereunder to do so. Nothing in this Limited Power of Attorney shall be construed (i) to be an amendment or modifications of, or supplement to, the Investment Advisory Contract, (ii) to amend, modify, limit or denigrate any duties, obligations or liabilities of the Adviser under the terms of the Investment Advisory Contract or (iii) exonerate, relieve or release the Adviser from any losses, obligations, penalties, actions, judgments and suits and other costs, expenses and disbursements of any kind or nature whatsoever which may be imposed on, incurred by or asserted against the Adviser (x) under the terms of the Investment Advisory Contract or (y) at law, or in equity, for the performance of its duties as the investment adviser or subadviser of any of the Funds.

The Adviser hereby agrees to indemnify and save harmless FASC and its trustees, officers and employees (each of the foregoing an "Indemnified Party" and collectively the "Indemnified Parties") against and from any and all losses, obligations, penalties, actions, judgments and suits and other costs, expenses and disbursements of any kind or nature whatsoever which may be imposed on, incurred by or asserted against an Indemnified Party, other than as a consequence of gross negligence or willful misconduct on the part of an Indemnified Party, arising out of or in connection with this Limited Power of Attorney or any other agreement, instrument or document executed in connection with the exercise of the authority granted to FASC herein to act on behalf of the Adviser, including without limitation the reasonable costs, expenses and disbursements in connection with defending such Indemnified Party against any claim or liability related to the exercise or performance of any of FASC's powers or duties under this Limited Power of Attorney or any of the other agreements, instruments or documents executed in connection with the exercise of the authority granted to FASC herein to act on behalf of the Adviser, or the taking of any action under or in connection with any of the foregoing. The obligations of the Adviser under this paragraph shall survive the termination of this Limited Power of Attorney with respect to actions taken by FASC on behalf of the Adviser during the term of this Limited Power of Attorney.

Any person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity dealing with FASC in its capacity as attorney-in-fact hereunder for the Adviser on behalf of any Fund is hereby expressly put on notice that FASC is acting solely in the capacity as an agent of the Adviser as agent for the Fund and that any such person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity must look solely to the Fund in question for enforcement of any claim against the Fund, as FASC assumes no personal liability whatsoever for obligations of the Fund entered into by FASC in its capacity as attorney-in-fact for the Adviser.

Each person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity which deals with a Fund through FASC in its capacity as agent and attorney-in-fact of the Adviser, is hereby expressly put on notice (i) that all persons or entities dealing with the Fund must look solely to the assets of the Fund on whose behalf FASC is acting pursuant to its powers hereunder for enforcement of any claim against the Fund, as the trustees, officers and/or agents of such Fund, the shareholders of the various classes of shares of the Fund, and the other Funds of the trust or corporation of which a Fund may be a series, assume no personal liability whatsoever for obligations entered into on behalf of such Fund, and (ii) that the rights, liabilities and obligations of any one Fund are separate and distinct from those of any other Fund.

The execution of this Limited Power of Attorney by the Adviser acting on behalf of the several Funds shall not be deemed to evidence the existence of any express or implied joint undertaking or appointment by and among any or all of the Funds. Liability for or recourse under or upon any undertaking of FASC pursuant to the power or authority granted to FASC under this Limited Power of Attorney under any rule of law, statute or constitution or by the enforcement of any assessment or penalty or by legal or equitable proceedings or otherwise shall be limited only to the assets of the Fund on whose behalf FASC was acting pursuant to the authority granted hereunder.

The Adviser hereby agrees that no person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity dealing with FASC shall be bound to inquire into FASC's power and authority hereunder and any such person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity shall be fully protected in relying on such power or authority unless such person, partnership, corporation or other legal entity has received prior written notice from the Adviser that this Limited Power of Attorney has been revoked. This Limited Power of Attorney shall be revoked and terminated automatically upon the cancellation or termination of the Services Agreement or as to any Fund upon the cancellation or termination of the Adviser’s Investment Advisory Contract for such Fund. Except as provided in the immediately preceding sentence, the powers and authorities herein granted may be revoked or terminated by the Adviser at any time provided that no such revocation or termination shall be effective until FASC has received actual notice of such revocation or termination in writing from the Adviser.

This Limited Power of Attorney constitutes the entire agreement between the Adviser and FASC and may be changed only by a writing signed by both of them, except that the Adviser may at any time change the list of Funds to which this Limited Power of Attorney relates by executing and delivering to FASC a later dated version of Schedule 1. This Limited Power of Attorney shall bind and benefit the respective successors and assigns of the Adviser and FASC; provided, however, that FASC shall have no power or authority hereunder to appoint a successor or substitute attorney in fact for the Adviser or any Fund.

This Limited Power of Attorney shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania without reference to principles of conflicts of laws. If any provision hereof, or any power or authority conferred upon FASC herein, would be invalid or unexercisable under applicable law, then such provision, power or authority shall be deemed modified to the extent necessary to render it valid or exercisable while most nearly preserving its original intent, and no provision hereof, or power or authority conferred upon FASC herein, shall be affected by the invalidity or the non-exercisability of another provision hereof, or of another power or authority conferred herein.

This Limited Power of Attorney may be executed in as many identical counterparts as may be convenient and by the different parties hereto on separate counterparts. This Limited Power of Attorney shall become binding on the Adviser when the Adviser shall have executed at least one counterpart and FASC shall have accepted its appointment by executing this Limited Power of Attorney. Immediately after the execution of a counterpart original of this Limited Power of Attorney and solely for the convenience of the parties hereto, the Adviser and FASC will execute sufficient counterparts so that FASC shall have a counterpart executed by it and the Adviser, and the Adviser shall have a counterpart executed by the Adviser and FASC. Each counterpart shall be deemed an original and all such taken together shall constitute but one and the same instrument, and it shall not be necessary in making proof of this Limited Power of Attorney to produce or account for more than one such counterpart.

 
 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Adviser has caused this Limited Power of Attorney to be executed by its duly authorized officer as of the date first written above.

 

FEDERATED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY

By: /s/ Keith M. Schappert

Name Keith M. Schappert

Title: President

Accepted and agreed to this

January 1, 2004

 

FEDERATED ADVISORY SERVICES COMPANY

By: /s/ G. Andrew Bonnewell

Name: G. Andrew Bonnewell

Title: Vice President

 

 
 

 

Schedule 1
to Limited Power of Attorney
dated as of January 1, 2004
revised September 1, 2021
by FEDERATED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY (the Adviser "),
acting on behalf of each of the funds and accounts listed below, and appointing
FEDERATED ADVISORY SERVICES COMPANY
the attorney-in-fact of the Adviser

 

List of Funds and Accounts

 

Emerging Markets Core Fund

Federated Hermes Adjustable Rate Fund

Bank Loan Core Fund

Federated Hermes Corporate Bond Fund

Federated Hermes California Municipal Cash Trust

Federated Hermes Capital Reserves Fund

Federated Hermes Conservative Microshort Fund

Federated Hermes Conservative Municipal Microshort Fund

Federated Hermes Corporate Bond Strategy Portfolio

Federated Hermes Emerging Market Debt Fund

Federated Hermes Floating Rate Strategic Income Fund

Federated Hermes Fund for U.S. Government Securities

Federated Hermes Fund for U.S. Government Securities II

Federated Hermes Government Income Securities, Inc.

Federated Hermes Government Income Fund

Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund

Federated Hermes Government Obligations Tax-Managed Fund

Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund

Federated Hermes Government Ultrashort Fund

Federated Hermes Absolute Return Credit Fund

Federated Hermes SDG Engagement High Yield Credit Fund

Federated Hermes Unconstrained Credit Fund

Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund II

Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund, Inc.

Federated Hermes High Yield Strategy Portfolio

Federated Hermes Opportunistic High Yield Bond Fund

Federated Hermes Institutional High Yield Bond Fund

Federated Hermes Intermediate Corporate Bond Fund

Federated Hermes Intermediate Municipal Fund

Federated Hermes Global Total Return Bond Fund

Federated Hermes International Bond Strategy Portfolio

Federated Hermes Managed Volatility Fund II

Federated Hermes Michigan Intermediate Municipal Fund

Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management

Federated Mortgage Core Portfolio

Federated Hermes Core Bond Fund

Federated Hermes Mortgage Strategy Portfolio

Federated Hermes Municipal High Yield Advantage Fund

Federated Hermes Municipal Obligations Fund

Federated Hermes Municipal Ultrashort Fund

Federated Hermes New York Municipal Cash Trust

Federated Hermes Ohio Municipal Income Fund

Federated Hermes Pennsylvania Municipal Income Fund

Federated Hermes Premier Municipal Income Fund

Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund

Federated Hermes Prime Money Fund II

Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund

Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund

Project and Trade Finance Core Fund

Federated Hermes Quality Bond Fund II

Federated Hermes Real Return Bond Fund

Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Total Return Bond Fund

Federated Hermes Short-Term Income Fund

Federated Hermes Strategic Income Fund

Federated Hermes Tax-Free Obligations Fund

Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust

Federated Hermes Total Return Bond Fund

Federated Hermes Total Return Government Bond Fund

Federated Trade Finance Income Fund

Federated Hermes Treasury Obligations Fund

Federated Hermes Trust for U.S. Treasury Obligations

Federated Hermes Short-Term Corporate ETF

Federated Hermes Short-Term Government Fund

Federated Hermes Short-Term High Yield ETF

Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Government Fund

Federated Hermes U.S. Treasury Cash Reserves

Federated Hermes Ultrashort Bond Fund

High Yield Core Bond Fund

Short Fixed Income Fund

 

 

AS - Federated High Yield Bond Fund

AS - Federated High Yield Portfolio

BB&T Funds Prime Money Market

Chesapeake Investors

Gartmore- Federated GVIT High Income

Great West- Maxim Federated Bond Fund

IDEX Federated Tax Exempt

ONatl - High Income Bond Portfolio

SA - Corporate Bond Portfolio

Trav - High Yield Portfolio

 

 

 


Exhibit 28 (h) (1) (b) under Form N-1A
Exhibit 10 under Item 601/Reg. S-K

 

 

SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED SERVICES AGREEMENT

THIS AGREEMENT, amended and restated as of December 1, 2001, is entered into between each Fund listed on Schedule 1, as may be amended from time to time, severally and not jointly, and Federated Shareholder Services Company, ("FSSC"). Unless otherwise defined herein, Section 10 sets forth the definition of capitalized terms used in this Agreement.

WHEREAS, Schedule 1 to this Agreement sets forth the classes of Shares for which the Funds will compensate persons who agree to provide services to Shareholders and assist in the maintenance of Shareholder accounts (“Services”);

WHEREAS, FSSC and certain of the Funds entered into a Shareholder Services Agreement dated March 1, 1994 and amended September 1, 1995, (the “Prior Agreement”) which provided for FSSC to enter into agreements for Services with third parties (“Third-Party Agreements”) and to utilize fees received under the Prior Agreement to compensate third parties pursuant to such Third-Party Agreements;

WHEREAS, it is contemplated that hereafter, the Funds will compensate third-parties for Services directly, and that FSSC will no longer enter into Third-Party Agreements;

WHEREAS, FSSC will continue to compensate third parties pursuant to any Third-Party Agreements and the Funds will continue to make payments to FSSC to fund those obligations; and

WHEREAS, FSSC will also receive fees for Services it provides to Shareholders under this Agreement.

NOW THEREFORE, the parties agree to amend and restate the Agreement as follows:

SECTION 1.                    Agreement to Provide Services

(a)                 Services. FSSC agrees to provide Services for Shareholders of the Funds that have fully-disclosed accounts in the Funds for which either (i) Federated Securities Corp. or any other affiliate of FSSC is the dealer of record; or (ii) for which the dealer of record does not provide Services (collectively, the “FSSC Accounts”). FSSC shall also provide Services or cause Services to be provided to Shareholders whose accounts are subject to Third-Party Agreements. Services shall include, but are not limited to, telephone, mail or electronic communications with Shareholders.

(b)                Delivery of Disclosure Documents. Upon request by a customer that is a Shareholder of the Funds, FSSC will send a copy of the current Prospectus (and, if expressly requested, Statement of Additional Information), annual report or semi-annual report for any Fund (“Disclosure Documents”) to the customer within three (3) business days of such request.

(i) The Funds will furnish to FSSC at the Funds’ own expense such number of copies of the then-current Disclosure Documents as FSSC requests to satisfy its obligations under this paragraph.
(ii) FSSC covenants to the Funds that it will not make any representations concerning any Shares other than those contained in the Disclosure Documents of the applicable Fund.
(iii) The parties may agree from time to time to set appropriate security procedures and to perform electronically certain of their obligations under this Agreement, including without limitation the delivery of requested Disclosure Documents.

(c)                 FSSC shall not have any obligation to pay the cost of producing or delivering Disclosure Documents or any other costs incurred by the Funds in connection with the Services provided hereunder.

SECTION 2.                    Service Fees Payable to FSSC

(a)                 During the term of this Agreement, FSSC will be entitled to receive from each Fund as full compensation for Services rendered hereunder a fee calculated daily at an annual rate, as set forth Schedule 1 to this Agreement, of up to 0.25% of average net assets held in FSSC Accounts of each Fund. Service fees paid by the Funds are in addition to other fees paid by the Funds such as those paid pursuant to an Agreement for Fund Accounting Services, Administrative Services, Transfer Agency Services and Custody Services Procurement and fees paid pursuant to each Fund’s Distributor’s Contract.

(b)                For so long as any Third-Party Agreement remains in effect, FSSC shall be entitled to receive fees from the Funds calculated daily at an annual rate, as set forth in Schedule 1 to this Agreement, of up to 0.25% on the average net assets held in accounts of each Fund for which Services are provided by such third-parties which amount shall be paid by FSSC in accordance with such Third-Party Agreements.

 

(c)                 The Funds shall pay service fees to FSSC in accordance with their regular payment schedules. For the payment period in which this Agreement becomes effective or terminates with respect to any Fund, there shall be an appropriate proration of the fee on the basis of the number of days that this Agreement is in effect with respect to such Fund during the period.

SECTION 3.                    Agreements with Other Service Providers

Each Fund hereby appoints FSSC as the Fund’s agent to enter into agreements with financial intermediaries that are not registered as broker/dealers under the 1934 Act (each an “Unregistered Intermediary”) to provide Services to their customers that are Shareholders of the Fund. Each Fund agrees to pay Service Fees at an annual rate as set forth in Schedule 1 to this Agreement of up to 0.25% of the average net assets held in Fund accounts for which an Unregistered Intermediary has agreed to provide Services. Any such accounts shall not be treated as FSSC Accounts for purposes of this Agreement.

SECTION 4.                    Representations

(a)                 Each party represents and warrants to the other party that:

(i) Status. It is duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization or incorporation and, if relevant under such laws, in good standing.
(ii) Powers. It has the power to execute this Agreement and any other documentation relating to this Agreement to which it is a party, to deliver this Agreement and any other documentation relating to this Agreement that it is required by this Agreement to deliver and to perform its obligations under this Agreement and has taken all necessary action to authorize such execution, delivery and performance.
(iii) No Violation or Conflict. Such execution, delivery and performance do not violate or conflict with any law applicable to it, any provision of its constitutional documents, any order or judgment of any court or other agency of government applicable to it or any contractual restriction binding on or affecting it.
(iv) Obligations Binding. Its obligations under this Agreement constitute its legal, valid and binding obligations, enforceable in accordance with their respective terms (subject to applicable bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, moratorium or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and subject, as to enforceability, to equitable principles of general application regardless of whether enforcement is sought in a proceeding in equity or law).
(v) Compliance with Laws. It will comply in all material respects with all applicable laws and orders to which it may be subject if failure to so comply would materially impair its ability to perform its obligations under this Agreement.
SECTION 5.                    Indemnification and Limitation of Liability

(a)                 In the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of obligations or duties hereunder on the part of FSSC and its trustees, officers, employees, agents and representatives, the Funds agree to indemnify FSSC and its trustees, officers, employees, agents and representatives against any and all claims, demands, liabilities and reasonable expenses (including attorneys’ fees), related to or otherwise connected with (i) any breach by the Funds of any provision of this Agreement; or (ii) any action by a Fund’s Shareholder against FSSC.

(b)                FSSC shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by any Fund in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by it of its obligations and duties under this Agreement. In no event shall FSSC be liable for indirect or consequential damages.

(c)                 Any person, even though also an officer, trustee, partner, employee or agent of FSSC, who may be or become an officer, employee or agent of any Fund or a member of a Fund's Board, shall be deemed, when rendering services to such Fund or acting on any business of such Fund (other than services or business in connection with the duties of FSSC hereunder) to be rendering such services to or acting solely for such Fund and not as an officer, trustee, partner, employee or agent or one under the control or direction of FSSC even though paid by FSSC.

(d)                FSSC is expressly put on notice of the limitation of liability as set forth in the Declaration of Trust of each Fund that is a Massachusetts business trust and agrees that the obligations assumed by each such Fund pursuant to this Agreement shall be limited in any case to such Fund and its assets and that FSSC shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligations from the Shareholders of such Fund, the Trustees, Officers, Employees or Agents of such Fund, or any of them.

(e)                 The provisions of this Section shall survive the termination of this Agreement.

 
 
SECTION 6.                    Privacy Policy

(a)                 The parties acknowledge that:

(i) The Securities and Exchange Commission has adopted Regulation S-P at 17 CFR Part 248 to protect the privacy of individuals who obtain a financial product or service for personal, family or household use;
(ii) Regulation S-P permits financial institutions, such as the Funds, to disclose “nonpublic personal information” (“NPI”) of its “customers” and “consumers” (as those terms are therein defined in Regulation S-P) to affiliated and nonaffiliated third parties of the Funds, without giving such customers and consumers the ability to opt out of such disclosure, for the limited purposes of processing and servicing transactions (17 CFR § 248.14); for specified law enforcement and miscellaneous purposes (17 CFR § 248.15); and to service providers or in connection with joint marketing arrangements (17 CFR § 248.13); and
(iii) Regulation S-P provides that the right of a customer and consumer to opt out of having his or her NPI disclosed pursuant to 17 CFR § 248.7 and 17 CFR § 248.10 does not apply when the NPI is disclosed to service providers or in connection with joint marketing arrangements, provided the Fund and third party enter into a contractual agreement that prohibits the third party from disclosing or using the information other than to carry out the purposes for which the Fund disclosed the information (17 CFR § 248.13).

(b)                The parties agree that the Funds may disclose Shareholder NPI to FSSC as agent of the Funds and solely in furtherance of fulfilling FSSC’s contractual obligations under the Agreement in the ordinary course of business to support the Funds and their Shareholders.

(c)                 FSSC hereby agrees to be bound to use and redisclose such NPI only for the limited purpose of fulfilling its duties and obligations under the Agreement, for law enforcement and miscellaneous purposes as permitted in 17 CFR §248.15, or in connection with joint marketing arrangements that the Funds may establish with FSSC in accordance with the limited exception set forth in 17 CFR 248.13.

(d)                FSSC represents and warrants that, in accordance with 17 CFR § 248.30, it has implemented, and will continue to carry out for the term of the Agreement, policies and procedures reasonably designed to:

(i) Insure the security and confidentiality of records and NPI of Fund customers;
(ii) Protect against any anticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of Fund customer records and NPI; and
(iii) Protect against unauthorized access or use of such Fund customer records or NPI that could result in substantial harm or inconvenience to any Fund customer.

(e)                 FSSC may redisclose Section 248.13 NPI only to: (a) the Funds and affiliated persons of the Funds (“Fund Affiliates”); (b) affiliated persons of FSSC (“Service Provider Affiliates”) (which in turn may disclose or use the information only to the extent permitted under the original receipt); (c) a third party not affiliated with FSSC or the Funds (“Nonaffiliated Third Party”) under the service and processing (§248.14) or miscellaneous (§248.15) exceptions, but only in the ordinary course of business to carry out the activity covered by the exception under which FSSC received the information in the first instance; and (d) a Nonaffiliated Third Party under the service provider and joint marketing exception (§248.13), provided FSSC enters into a written contract with the Nonaffiliated Third Party that prohibits the Nonaffiliated Third Party from disclosing or using the information other than to carry out the purposes for which the Funds disclosed the information in the first instance.

(f)                  FSSC may redisclose Section 248.14 NPI and Section 248.15 NPI to: (a) the Funds and Fund Affiliates; (b) Service Provider Affiliates (which in turn may disclose the information to the same extent permitted under the original receipt); and (c) a Nonaffiliated Third Party to whom the Funds might lawfully have disclosed NPI directly.

(g)                The provisions of this Section shall survive the termination of the Agreement.

SECTION 7.                    Notices

(a)                 All notices of any kind to be given hereunder shall be given in writing and delivered by personal delivery or by postage prepaid, registered or certified United States first class mail, return receipt requested, overnight courier services, or by fax or e-mail (with confirming copy by mail).

(b)                Unless otherwise notified in writing, all notices to any Fund shall be given or sent to such Fund at:

5800 Corporate Drive

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15237-7000

Attention: President

(c)                 Unless otherwise notified in writing, all notices to FSSC shall be given or sent to:

Federated Investors Tower

1001 Liberty Avenue

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-3779

Attention: President

SECTION 8.                    Assignments and No Third-Party Rights

(a)                 Except for any Third-Party Agreements entered into prior to the date of this Agreement, this Agreement will not be assigned or subcontracted by either party, without prior written consent of the other party, except that either party may assign or subcontract this Agreement to an affiliate controlled, controlled by, or under common control with the assigning or subcontracting party without such consent. Subject to the preceding, this Agreement will apply to, be binding in all respects upon, and inure to the benefit of permitted assigns and subcontractors of the parties. In no event shall the Funds be obligated to make any payment under this Agreement to any person other than FSSC.

(b)                Nothing expressed or referred to in this Agreement will be construed to give anyone other than the parties to this Agreement any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under or with respect to this Agreement or any provision of this Agreement. This Agreement and all of its provisions and conditions are for the sole and exclusive benefit of the parties to this Agreement and their permitted assigns and subcontractors.

SECTION 9.                    Force Majeure

If either party is unable to carry out any of its obligations under this Agreement because of conditions beyond its reasonable control, including, but not limited to, acts of war or terrorism, work stoppages, fire, civil disobedience, delays associated with hardware malfunction or availability, riots, rebellions, storms, electrical failures, acts of God, and similar occurrences (“Force Majeure”), this Agreement will remain in effect and the non-performing party’s obligations shall be suspended without liability for a period equal to the period of the continuing Force Majeure (which period shall not exceed fifteen (15) business days), provided that:

(i) the non-performing party gives the other party prompt notice describing the Force Majeure, including the nature of the occurrence and its expected duration and, where reasonably practicable, continues to furnish regular reports with respect thereto during the period of Force Majeure;
(ii) the suspension of obligations is of no greater scope and of no longer duration than is required by the Force Majeure;
(iii) no obligations of either party that accrued before the Force Majeure are excused as a result of the Force Majeure;
(iv) the non-performing party uses all reasonable efforts to remedy its inability to perform as quickly as possible.
SECTION 10.                  Definition of Terms

(a)                 1934 Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and “1940 Act” means the Investment Company Act of 1940, in each case as amended and in effect at the relevant time.

(b)                Fund” means an investment company registered under the 1940 Act and, in the case of a “series company” as defined in Rule 18f-2(a) under the 1940 Act, each individual portfolio of the series company, set forth on Schedule 1 to this Agreement from time to time. “Funds” means the Funds listed on Schedule 1 collectively.

(c)                 Prospectus” means, with respect to any Shares the most recent Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”) and any supplement thereto, pursuant to which a Fund publicly offers the Shares; provided, however, that this definition shall not be construed to require FSC, Dealer or any Fund to deliver any SAI other than at the express request of Dealer’s customer.

(d)                Shares” means (1) shares of beneficial interest in a Fund organized as a business trust; and (2) shares of capital stock in a Fund organized as a corporation. With respect to a Fund that has established separate classes of Shares in accordance with Rule 18f-3 under the 1940 Act, Shares refers to the relevant class. “Shareholder” means the beneficial owner of any Share.

SECTION 11.                  Miscellaneous

(a)                 This Agreement may be terminated by either party by giving the other party at least sixty (60) days' written notice thereof.

(b)                This Agreement may be amended only by a writing signed by both parties, provided that, any Fund may amend Schedule 1 from time to time by sending a copy of the amended Schedule to FSSC. Any such amendment shall be effective ten (10) days after notice thereof.

(c)                 This Agreement constitutes (along with its Schedules) a complete and exclusive statement of the terms of the agreement between the parties and supersedes any prior agreement with respect to its subject matter.

(d)                This Agreement has been entered into between FSSC and each Fund severally and not jointly, and the provisions this Agreement shall apply separately to each Fund. No Fund shall be obligated to make any payments to FSSC under this Agreement other than with respect to its Shares. No breach of this Agreement by a Fund, or by FSSC against a Fund, shall constitute a breach of this Agreement with respect to any other Fund.

(e)                 This Agreement may be executed by different parties on separate counterparts, each of which, when so executed and delivered, shall be an original, and all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same instrument.

(f)                  If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, the other provisions of this Agreement will remain in full force and effect. Any provision of this Agreement held invalid or unenforceable only in part or degree will remain in full force and effect to the extent not held invalid and unenforceable.

(g)                This Agreement will be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, without regard to conflicts of laws principles thereof. Any action or proceeding seeking to enforce any provision of, or based on any right arising out of, this Agreement may be brought against the parties in the courts of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, County of Allegheny, or, if it has or can acquire jurisdiction, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and each of the parties consents to the jurisdiction of such courts (and of the appropriate appellate courts) in any such action or proceeding and waives any objection to venue laid therein. Each party waives its right to a jury trial.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed by their officers designated below as of the day and year first above written.

Attest: Funds (listed on Schedule 1)
   
   
/s/ John W. McGonigle By:/s/ John F. Donahue
John W. McGonigle John F. Donahue
Secretary Chairman
   
Attest: Federated Shareholder Services Company
   
   
/s/ Timothy S. Johnson By:  /s/ Arthur L. Cherry, Jr.
Timothy S. Johnson Arthur L. Cherry, Jr.
Secretary  

 

 

 

 
 

 

SCHEDULE 1

TO SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED SERVICES AGREEMENT

(revised 9/1/21)

 

The following lists the Funds and Shares subject to the Second Amended and Restated Services Agreement (“Agreement”) which have the ability to charge the maximum 0.25% Service Fee payable by the Funds pursuant to the Agreement.

 

FEDERATED HERMES ADJUSTABLE RATE SECURITIES TRUST Institutional Shares
    Service Shares
 
FEDERATED HERMES ADVISER SERIES
  Federated Hermes Emerging Markets Equity Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes Absolute Credit Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes Conservative Microshort Fund Class A Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes Conservative Municipal Microshort Fund Class A Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes Global Equity Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes Global Small Cap Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes International Developed Equity Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes SDG Engagement Equity Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes SDG Engagement High Yield Credit Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes Unconstrained Credit Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes US SMID Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes International Equity Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes International Growth Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Value Fund Service Shares
    Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes MDT Market Neutral Fund Class A Shares
    Institutional Shares
     
     
     
FEDERATED EQUITY FUNDS
  Federated Hermes Clover Small Value Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes International Strategic Value Dividend Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Class R Shares
  Federated Hermes Kaufmann Large Cap Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes Kaufmann Small Cap Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes MDT Mid Cap Growth Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes Prudent Bear Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes Strategic Value Dividend Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
 
FEDERATED HERMES EQUITY INCOME FUND, INC. Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Class F Shares
FEDERATED HERMES FIXED INCOME SECURITIES, INC.
  Federated Hermes Municipal Ultrashort Fund Class A Shares
     
  Federated Hermes Strategic Income Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Class F Shares
     
FEDERATED HERMES GLOBAL ALLOCATION FUND Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
   
FEDERATED HERMES GOVERNMENT INCOME SECURITIES, INC. Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Class F Shares
    Institutional Shares
     
FEDERATED HERMES GOVERNMENT INCOME TRUST
  Federated Hermes Government Income Fund Institutional Shares
    Service Shares
     
FEDERATED HERMES HIGH INCOME BOND FUND, INC. Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
FEDERATED HERMES HIGH YIELD TRUST  
  Federated Hermes Opportunistic High Yield Fund Service Shares
    Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
FEDERATED HERMES INCOME SECURITIES TRUST
  Federated Hermes Capital Income Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Class F Shares
**** Federated Hermes Floating Rate Strategic Income Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes Fund for U.S. Government Securities Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes Intermediate Corporate Bond Fund Institutional Shares
    Service Shares
  Federated Hermes Muni and Stock Advantage Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Class F Shares
  Federated Hermes Real Return Bond Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes Short-Term Income Fund Class A Shares
    Class A2 Shares
    Service Shares
FEDERATED HERMES INDEX TRUST
  Federated Hermes Max-Cap Index Fund Class C Shares
    Institutional Shares
    Service Shares
  Federated Hermes Mid-Cap Index Fund Service Shares
     
FEDERATED HERMES INSTITUTIONAL TRUST
  Federated Hermes Government Ultrashort Fund Class A Shares
    Service Shares
  Federated Hermes Institutional High Yield Bond Fund  
     
  Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Total Return Bond Fund Class A Shares
    Service Shares
 
FEDERATED HERMES INSURANCE SERIES
  Federated Hermes Fund for US Government Securities II  
  Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund II Primary Shares
    Service Shares
  Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund II Primary Shares
    Service Shares
  Federated Hermes Managed Volatility Fund II  
  Federated Hermes Government Money Fund II Primary Shares
  Service Shares
   
FEDERATED HERMES INTERNATIONAL SERIES, INC.
  Federated Hermes Global Total Return Bond Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
     
FEDERATED HERMES INVESTMENT SERIES FUNDS, INC.
  Federated Hermes Corporate Bond Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Class F Shares
FEDERATED HERMES MDT SERIES
  Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
  Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
   
     
FEDERATED HERMES MUNICIPAL BOND FUND, INC. Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Class F Shares
    Institutional Shares
FEDERATED HERMES MUNICIPAL SECURITIES INCOME TRUST
  Federated Hermes Michigan Intermediate Municipal Fund Class A Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes Municipal High Yield Advantage Fund Class A Shares
    Class C Shares
    Class F Shares
  Federated Hermes Ohio Municipal Income Fund Class A Shares
    Class F Shares
    Institutional Shares
  Federated Hermes Pennsylvania Municipal Income Fund Class A Shares
    Class A Shares
    Institutional Shares
FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-INTERMEDIATE DURATION MUNICIPAL TRUST    
  Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund Class A Shares  
    Class A2 Shares  
    Institutional Shares  
  Service Shares  
     
FEDERATED HERMES TOTAL RETURN GOVERNMENT BOND FUND Service Shares  
       

FEDERATED HERMES TOTAL RETURN SERIES, INC.
 
  Federated Hermes Core Bond Fund (formerly Federated Hermes Select Total Return Bond Fund) Institutional Shares  
    Class A Shares  
       
  Federated Hermes Total Return Bond Fund Class A Shares  
    Class C Shares  
    Service Shares  
  Federated Hermes Ultrashort Bond Fund Class A Shares  
    Institutional Shares  
    Service Shares  
   
FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-TERM GOVERNMENT TRUST Institutional Shares  
    Service Shares  
       
FEDERATED HERMES SHORT-INTERMEDIATE GOVERNMENT TRUST Institutional Shares  
    Service Shares  
       
FEDERATED HERMES WORLD INVESTMENT SERIES, INC.  
  Federated Hermes Emerging Market Debt Fund Class A Shares  
    Class C Shares  
       
  Federated Hermes International Leaders Fund Class A Shares  
    Class C Shares  
  Federated Hermes International Small-Mid Company Fund Class A Shares  
    Class C Shares  
FEDERATED HERMES INTERMEDIATE MUNICIPAL TRUST  
  Federated Hermes Intermediate Municipal Fund Institutional Shares  
       
FEDERATED HERMES MONEY MARKET OBLIGATIONS TRUST  
  Federated Hermes California Municipal Cash Trust Capital Shares  
    Cash II Shares  
    Cash Series Shares  
    Wealth Shares  
    Service Shares  
  Federated Hermes Capital Reserves Fund    
  Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund Advisor Shares  
    Capital Shares  
    Cash II Shares  
    Cash Series Shares  
    Institutional Shares  
    Select Shares  
    Service Shares  
    Trust Shares  
  Federated Hermes Government Obligations Tax-Managed Fund Automated Shares  
    Institutional Shares  
    Service Shares  
  Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund Class A Shares  
    Class C Shares  
    Class F Shares  
    Class P Shares  
  Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management Capital Shares  
    Eagle Shares  
    Institutional Shares  
    Service Shares  
  Federated Hermes Municipal Obligations Fund Automated Shares  
    Capital Shares  
    Cash II Shares  
    Cash Series Shares  
    Wealth Shares  
    Investment Shares  
    Service Shares  
  Federated Hermes New York Municipal Cash Trust Cash II Shares  
    Cash Series Shares  
    Service Shares  
    Wealth Shares  
  Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund Advisor Shares  
    Automated Shares  
    Capital Shares  
    Cash II Shares  
    Cash Series Shares  
    Class R Shares  
    Wealth Shares  
    Service Shares  
    Trust Shares  
  Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund Capital Shares  
    Institutional Shares  
    Service Shares  
  Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund Capital Shares  
    Institutional Shares  
    Service Shares  
  Federated Hermes Tax-Free Obligations Fund Advisor Shares  
    Service Shares  
    Wealth Shares  
  Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust Institutional Shares  
    Premier Shares  
  Federated Hermes Treasury Obligations Fund Automated Shares  
    Capital Shares  
    Institutional Shares  
    Service Shares  
    Trust Shares  
  Federated Hermes Trust for U.S. Treasury Obligations Cash II Shares  
    Cash Series Shares  
    Institutional Shares  
  Federated Hermes U.S. Treasury Cash Reserves Institutional Shares  
    Service Shares  
           

 

 

****Federated Hermes Floating Rate Strategic Income Fund, Class C Shares converted into Class A Shares – approved at August 2021 board meeting, but not effective yet.

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 28 (m) under Form N-1A
Exhibit (1) under Item 601/REG. S-K

 

6/29/20-Name changed to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Trust

10/31/07 – Name changed to Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

DISTRIBUTION PLAN

 

This Distribution Plan ("Plan") is adopted as of the 12th day of February, 2004, by the Board of Trustees of Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust (the "Trust"), a Massachusetts business trust with respect to certain classes of shares ("Classes") of the portfolios of the Trust (the "Funds") set forth in exhibits hereto.

1. This Plan is adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("Act"), so as to allow the Trust to make payments as contemplated herein, in conjunction with the distribution of Classes of the Funds ("Shares") and pursuant to the “Distributor’s Contract” entered into by the Trust and FSC.
2. This Plan is designed to finance activities of Federated Securities Corp. ("FSC") principally intended to result in the sale of Shares to include: (a) providing incentives to financial institutions ("Financial Institutions") to sell Shares and; (b) advertising and marketing of Shares to include preparing, printing and distributing prospectuses and sales literature to prospective shareholders and with Financial Institutions. The Plan is also designed to cover the costs of administrative services performed in connection with the sale of Shares, but are not limited to shareholder services, recordkeeping services and educational services, as well as the costs of implementing and operating the Plan.
3. As compensation for services provided pursuant to this Plan, FSC will be paid a fee in respect of the following Classes set forth on the exhibits to this Agreement. FSC may use all or any of the fees received pursuant to the Plan to pay any of the expenses associated with the activities under Paragraph 2 hereof whether incurred directly, or through Financial Institutions.
4. Any payments by FSC to Financial Institutions with funds received as compensation under this Plan will be made pursuant to an agreement entered into by FSC and the Financial Institution (“Financial Institution Agreement”). FSC has the right (i) to select, in its sole discretion, the Financial Institutions to participate in the Plan and (ii) to terminate without cause and in its sole discretion any Financial Institution Agreement.
5. Quarterly in each year that this Plan remains in effect, FSC shall prepare and furnish to the Board of Trustees of the Trust, and the Board of Trustees shall review, a written report of the amounts expended under the Plan and the purpose for which such expenditures were made.
6. This Plan shall become effective with respect to each Class (i) after approval as required by Rule 12b-1 under the Act as in effect on the date of the execution hereof; and (ii) upon execution of an exhibit adopting this Plan with respect to such Class.
7. This Plan shall remain in effect with respect to each Class presently set forth on an exhibit and any subsequent Classes added pursuant to an exhibit during the initial year of this Plan for the period of one year from the date set forth above and may be continued thereafter if this Plan is approved with respect to each Class at least annually by a majority of the Trust's Board of Trustees and a majority of the Disinterested Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such Plan. If this Plan is adopted with respect to a Class after the first annual approval by the Trustees as described above, this Plan will be effective as to that Class upon execution of the applicable exhibit pursuant to the provisions of paragraph 6(ii) above and will continue in effect until the next annual approval of this Plan by the Trustees and thereafter for successive periods of one year subject to approval as described above.
8. All material amendments to this Plan must be approved by a vote of the Board of Trustees of the Trust and of the Disinterested Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on it.
9. This Plan may not be amended in order to increase materially the costs which the Classes may bear for distribution pursuant to the Plan without being approved by a majority vote of the outstanding voting securities of the Classes as defined in Section 2(a)(42) of the Act.
10. This Plan may be terminated with respect to a particular Class at any time by: (a) a majority vote of the Disinterested Trustees; or (b) a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the particular Class as defined in Section 2(a)(42) of the Act; or (c) by FSC on 60 days' notice to the Trust.
11. While this Plan shall be in effect, the selection and nomination of Disinterested Trustees of the Trust shall be committed to the discretion of the Disinterested Trustees then in office.
12. All agreements with any person relating to the implementation of this Plan, including, but not limited to Financial Institution Agreements, shall be in writing and any agreement related to this Plan shall be subject to termination, without penalty, pursuant to the provisions of Paragraph 10 herein.
13. This Plan shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
 
 

 

6/29/20-Name changed to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

9/30/11 – Institutional Service Shares renamed Service Shares

10/31/07 – Name changed to Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

 

EXHIBIT A

to the

Distribution Plan

 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

Institutional Service Shares

 

This Distribution Plan is adopted as of the 12th day of February, 2004, by Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust with respect to the Institutional Service Shares of the Trust set forth above.

As compensation for the services provided pursuant to this Plan, FSC will be paid a monthly fee computed at the annual rate of 0.25 of 1% of the average aggregate net asset value of the Institutional Service Shares of Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust held during the month.

Witness the due execution hereof this 1st day of March, 2004.

 

 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

 

By: /s/ J. Christopher Donahue

Name: . Christopher Donahue

Title: President

 
 

 

6/29/20-Name changed to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

9/30/11 – Institutional Service Shares renamed Service Shares

10/31/07 – Name changed to Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

 

Amendment #1 to EXHIBIT A

to the

Distribution Plan

 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

Service Shares

 

This Distribution Plan is adopted as of the 12th day of February, 2004, by Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust with respect to the Institutional Service Shares of the Trust set forth above.

Effective December 1, 2019, the monthly fee paid to FSC as compensation for the services provided to Service Shares of Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust pursuant to Exhibit A to this Plan is eliminated.

Witness the due execution hereof this 1st day of December, 2019.

 

 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

 

By: /s/ J. Christopher Donahue

Name: J. Christopher Donahue

Title: President

 
 

 

 

 

 

6/29/20-Name changed to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

12/1/19 - See Amendment #1 to Exhibit B.

10/31/07 – Name changed to Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

 

EXHIBIT B

to the

Distribution Plan

 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

Class A Shares

 

This Exhibit to the Distribution Plan is adopted as of the 7th day of June, 2006, by Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust with respect to the Class A Shares of the Trust set forth above.

As compensation for the services provided pursuant to this Plan, FSC will be paid a monthly fee computed at the annual rate of 0.25 of 1% of the average aggregate net asset value of the Class A Shares of Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust held during the month.

Witness the due execution hereof this 1st day of July, 2006

 

 

FEDERATED SHORT-TERM MUNICIPAL TRUST

 

 

By: /s/ John B. Fisher

Name: John B. Fisher

Title: President

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

 

6/29/20-Name changed to Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

10/31/07 – Name changed to Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

 

 

 

Amendment #1 to EXHIBIT B

to the

Distribution Plan

 

Federated Short–Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

 

Class A Shares

 

This Exhibit to the Distribution Plan is adopted as of the 7th day of June, 2006, by Federated Short-Term Municipal Trust with respect to the Class A Shares of the Trust set forth above.

As compensation for the services provided pursuant to this Plan, FSC will be paid a monthly fee computed at the annual rate of 0.05 of 1% of the average aggregate net asset value of the Class A Shares of Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust held during the month.

Witness the due execution hereof this 1st day of December, 2019

 

 

Federated Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

 

 

By: /s/ John B. Fisher

Name: John B. Fisher

Title: President

 
 

 

Exhibit C

To the

Distribution Plan

 

Federated Hermes Short–Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

 

Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund

Class A2 Shares

 

This Exhibit to the Distribution Plan is adopted as of the 13th day of August, 2021, by Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Trust with respect to the Class A2 Shares of the Trust set forth above.

As compensation for the services provided pursuant to this Plan, FSC will be paid a monthly fee computed at the annual rate of 0.25 of 1% of the average aggregate net asset value of the Class A2 Shares of Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Fund held during the month.

Witness the due execution hereof this 1st day of September, 2021.

 

 

Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust

 

 

By: ____________________________________

Name: John B. Fisher

Title: President

Exhibit 28 (n) under Form N-1A
Exhibit
99 under Item 601/Reg. S-K

 

MULTIPLE CLASS PLAN

 

Current as of September 1, 2021

 

 

This Multiple Class Plan (this "Plan") is adopted by the investment companies (the "Multiple Class Companies") identified in exhibits hereto (the "Class Exhibits") as offering separate classes of shares ("Classes").

 

1.       Purpose

 

This Plan is adopted pursuant to Rule 18f-3 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Rule"), in connection with the issuance by the Multiple Class Companies and any series thereof (collectively the "Funds") of more than one Class of shares in reliance on the Rule. In documenting the exchange features for each Class, this plan describes the arrangements whereby shares of Funds may be exchanged for or from certain other investment companies which are not part of this Plan. In documenting the separate arrangement for distribution of each Class, this Plan also sets forth the schedules for variations in sales loads and contingent deferred sales charges required by Rules 22d-1 and 6c-10, respectively. Financial intermediary-specific front-end sales load and contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) waivers, front-end sales load discounts and exchange features (collectively, “sales charge variations”) required to be disclosed by Rule 22d-1 shall be as set forth in the prospectus of a Fund, as may be amended from time to time.

 

2.       Separate Arrangements/Class Differences

 

The arrangements for shareholders services or the distribution of shares, or both, for each Class shall be set forth in the applicable Class Exhibit hereto.

 

3.       Expense Allocations

 

Each Class shall be allocated those shareholder service fees and fees and expenses payable under a Rule 12b-1 Plan specified in the Class Exhibit. In addition the following expenses may be specifically allocated to each Class to the extent that the Fund's officers determine that such expenses are actually incurred in a different amount by that Class, or that the Class receives services of a different kind or to a different degree than other Classes:

 

(a)       transfer agent fees;

 

(b) printing and postage expenses related to preparing and distributing materials such as shareholder reports, prospectuses, and proxies to current shareholders;

 

(c) blue sky registration fees;

 

(d) SEC registration fees;

 

(e) the expense of administrative personnel and services as required to support the shareholders;

 

(f) litigation or other legal expenses relating solely to one Class; or

 

(g) other expenses incurred on behalf of the Class or for events or activities pertaining exclusively to the Class.

 

4.       Conversion and Exchange Features

 

The conversion and exchange features for shares of each Class shall be as set forth in the applicable Class Exhibit hereto.

 

5.       Amendment

 

Any material amendment of this Plan or any Class Exhibit hereto by any Multiple Class Company is subject to the approval of a majority of the directors/trustees of the applicable Multiple Class Company and a majority of the directors/trustees of the Multiple Class Company who are not interested persons of the Multiple Class Company, pursuant to the Rule.

 

 
 

 

Class A Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised 9/1/21)

 

1.       SEPARATE ARRANGEMENT AND EXPENSE ALLOCATION

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Class A Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries in consideration of the payment of a portion of the applicable sales load (“dealer reallowance”)and a shareholder service fee. When indicated on the Schedule to this Exhibit, the principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may also receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a 12b-1 Plan. In connection with this basic arrangement, Class A Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Class A Shares
Sales Load Up to 5.5% of the public offering price, as set forth in the attached Schedules
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") 0.00%
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Redemption Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class A Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       CONVERSION AND EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class A Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Class A Shares that are not subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) based upon the redemption of a “Large Ticket” purchase made within 24 months may be converted to any other Share Class within the same Fund, provided that shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: Class A Shares may be exchanged for Class A Shares of any other Fund  

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 

 
 

3.       EXCEPTIONS TO BASIC ARRANGEMENTS

 

For purposes of Rules 22d-1 and 6c-10 under the Act, unless otherwise specified on the Schedule to this Exhibit, the scheduled variations in sales loads and contingent deferred sales charges are as follows:

 

(A)       BASIC SALES LOAD SCHEDULE

 

The basic schedule of sales loads for Class A Shares of Funds so designated on the Schedule to this Exhibit is as follows:

 

Purchase Amount

Sales Load as a Percentage of

Public Offering Price

Less than $50,000 5.50%
$50,000 but less than $100,000 4.50%
$100,000 but less than $250,000 3.75%
$250,000 but less than $500,000 2.50%
$500,000 but less than $1 million 2.00%
$1 million or greater 0.00%

 

(B)       FIXED INCOME SALES LOAD SCHEDULE

 

The schedule of sales loads for Class A Shares of Funds so designated on the Schedule to this Exhibit is as follows:

 

Purchase Amount

Sales Charge as a Percentage of

Public Offering Price

Less than $100,000 4.50%
$100,000 but less than $250,000 3.75%
$250,000 but less than $500,000 2.50%
$500,000 but less than $1 million 2.00%
$1 million or greater 0.00%

 

(C)       MODIFIED FIXED INCOME SALES LOAD SCHEDULE

 

The schedule of sales loads for Class A Shares of Funds so designated on the Schedule to this Exhibit is as follows:

 

Purchase Amount

Sales Charge as a Percentage of

Public Offering Price

Less than $100,000 1.00%
$100,000 or greater 0.00%

 

(D)       MONEY MARKET AND ULTRASHORT BOND LOAD SCHEDULE

 

The Schedule of sales loads for Class A Shares of Funds so designated on the Schedule to this Exhibit is as follows:

 

Purchase Amount

Sales Charge as a Percentage of

Public Offering Price

 
 
All purchases 0.00%  

 

 

(E)       "LARGE TICKET" PURCHASES

 

Unless otherwise indicated on the Schedule to this Exhibit, a financial intermediary that places an order to purchase $1,000,000 or more of Class A Shares shall receive from the principal underwriter an advance commission equal to 75 basis points (0.75%) of the public offering price. In such event, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Plan or this Exhibit, such Class A Shares shall be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge upon redemption within 24 months of purchase equal to 75 basis points (0.75%) of the lesser of (x) the purchase price of the Class A Shares or (y) the redemption price of the Class A Shares. Any contingent deferred sales charge received upon redemption of Class A Shares shall be paid to the principal underwriter in consideration of the advance commission.

 

(F)       REDUCING OR ELIMINATING THE SALES LOAD

 

Contingent upon notification to the Fund’s principal underwriter or transfer agent, in applying the exceptions set forth in this Section 3, the purchase amount shall take into account:

 

·                                   Discounts achieved by combining concurrent purchases of and/or current investment in Class A, Class B, Class C, Class F, and Class R Shares, made or held by (or on behalf of) the investor, the investor’s spouse, and the investor’s children under age 21 (regardless of whether the purchases or investments are made or held directly or through an investment professional or through a single-participant retirement account); provided that such purchases and investments can be linked using tax identification numbers (TINs), social security numbers (SSNs), or Broker Identification Numbers (BINs); and
·                                   Letters of intent to purchase a certain amount of Class A Shares within a thirteen month period.

 

(G)       waiver of sales load

 

Continent upon notification to the Fund’s Transfer Agent, no sales load shall be assessed on purchases of Class A Shares made:

 

·                                   within 120 days of redeeming shares of an equal or greater amount;
·                                   through a program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary) and where the Financial Intermediary has agreed with the principal underwriter not to receive a dealer reallowance on purchases under such program;
·                                   with reinvested dividends or capital gains;
·                                   or Class A Shares, issued in connection with the merger, consolidation, or acquisition of the assets of another fund.  Further, no sales load shall be assessed on purchases of Shares made by a shareholder that originally became a shareholder of a Federated Fund pursuant to the terms of an agreement and plan of reorganization which permits shareholders to acquire Shares at NAV provided that such Shares are held directly with the Fund’s transfer agent.  If the Shares are held through a financial intermediary the sales charge waiver will not apply;
·                                   by Federated Life Members (Federated shareholders who originally were issued shares through the “Liberty Account”, which was an account for the Liberty Family of Funds on February 28, 1987, or who invested through an affinity group prior to August 1, 1987, into the Liberty Account);
·                                   by Directors, Trustees, employees, former employees and sales representatives of the Fund, the Adviser, the principal underwriter and their affiliates, employees of any investment professional that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the principal underwriter, by the immediate family members of the above persons, and by trusts, pensions or profit-sharing plans for the above persons; and
·                                   pursuant to the exchange privilege.  However, this sales charge waiver may not apply to Class A Shares purchased pursuant to the exchange privilege if a shareholder did not previously pay a sales load upon its initial purchase of Class A Shares.

 

 
 

 

(H)       WAIVER OF CONTINGENT DEFFERED SALES CHARGE ON LARGE-TICKET PURCHASES

 

Contingent upon notification to the Fund’s principal underwriter or transfer agent, no CDSC will be imposed on redemptions.

 

·                                   following the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account, or the post-purchase disability of all registered shareholder(s), as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code.
·                                   due to the termination of a trust following the death of the trustor/grantor or beneficiary, provided that the trust document specifically states that the trust is terminated upon the death
·                                   representing minimum required distributions (“RMD”) from an Individual Retirement Account or other retirement plan as required under the Internal Revenue Code;
·                                   of Shares originally purchased through a financial intermediary that did not receive an advance commission on the purchase;
·                                   of Shares that were reinvested within 120 days of a previous redemption;
·                                   of Shares held by the Directors, Trustees, employees, former employees and sales representatives of the Fund, the Adviser, the principal underwriter and their affiliates, employees of any investment professional that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the principal underwriter, by the immediate family members of the above persons, and by trusts, pension or profit-sharing plans for the above persons;
·                                   of Shares originally purchased through a program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement, or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary) and where the Financial Intermediary has agreed with the principal underwriter not to receive an advanced commission on purchases under such program;
·                                   of Shares purchased with reinvested dividends or capital gains;
·                                   imposed by the Fund when it closes an account for not meeting the minimum balance requirements; and
·                                   of Shares which were purchased pursuant to an exchange privilege if the Shares were held for the applicable CDSC holding period.

 

 

(I) SALES CHARGE WAIVERS FOR SHAREHOLDERS PURCHASING THROUGH CERTAIN FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

 

Financial intermediary sales charge variations required to be disclosed by Rule 22d-1 shall be as set forth in the prospectus of a Fund, as may be amended from time to time.

 

 

4.       SPECIAL OFFER PROGRAM

 

[NOTE: The 30 month CDSC period connected with of this program expired in September of 2002]

During the Special Offer Program which took place in March, 2000, the sales load was waived on purchases of Class A Shares of Federated Aggressive Growth Fund, Federated Communications Technology Fund, Federated Large Cap Growth Fund, and Federated International Small Company Fund (the "Special Offer Funds"). Instead, the principal underwriter paid an advance commission of 2.00% of the offering price of the Special Offer Funds to intermediaries participating in the Special Offer Program. Class A Shares purchased through this Special Offer were subject to a CDSC of 2.00% on redemptions which occurred within 30 months after the purchase, which amount was to be paid to the principal underwriter in consideration for advancing the commission to intermediaries. Class A Shares of the Special Offer Funds purchased during the Special Offer Program could be exchanged with Class A Shares of other Special Offer Funds with no imposition of a sales load or CDSC fee. Class A Shares of the Special Offer Funds purchased during the Special Offer Program which were exchanged for Class A Shares of other Funds during the 30 month CDSC period incurred the CDSC fee upon redemption. However, no sales load was charged for such an exchange.

 

5.       REDEMPTION FEE

 

For purposes of Rule 11a-3 under the Act, any redemption fee received upon the redemption or exchange of Class A Shares will be applied to fees incurred or amount expended in connection with such redemption or exchange. The balance of any redemption fees shall be paid to the Fund.

 

A Fund shall waive any redemption fee with respect to (i) non-participant directed redemptions or exchanges involving Class A Shares held in retirement plans established under Section 401(a) or 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), custodial plan accounts established under Section 493(b)(7) of the Code, or deferred compensation plans established under Section 457 of the Code; (ii) redemptions or exchanges involving Class A Shares held in plans administered as college savings programs under Section 529 of the Code; and (iii) Class A Shares redeemed due to the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account.

 
 

Schedule of Funds
Offering Class A Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class A Shares on the terms set forth in the Class A Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

1.       CLASS A SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1

Fee

Redemption

Fee

     
Federated Hermes Adviser Series    
Federated Hermes Emerging Markets Equity Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Absolute Return Credit Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Conservative Microshort Fund 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Conservative Municipal Microshort Fund 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Global Equity Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Global Small Cap Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes International Equity Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Unconstrained Credit Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes US SMID Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes SDG Engagement Equity Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes SDG Engagement High Yield Credit Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes International Developed Equity Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes International Growth Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Value Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes MDT Market Neutral Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Equity Funds    
Federated Hermes Clover Small Value Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes International Strategic Value Dividend Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Large Cap Fund 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Small Cap Fund 0.25% None
Federated Hermes MDT Mid Cap Growth Fund None None
Federated Hermes Prudent Bear Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Strategic Value Dividend Fund 0.05% None
     
Federated Hermes Equity Income Fund, Inc. 0.05% None
     
Federated Hermes Global Allocation Fund None None
     
Federated Hermes High Yield Trust    
Federated Hermes Equity Advantage Fund 0.05% None
     
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust    
Federated Hermes Capital Income Fund None None
Federated Hermes Floating Rate Income Securities Fund None None
Federated Hermes Muni and Stock Advantage Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Real Return Bond Fund 0.05% None
     
Federated Hermes MDT Series    
Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund 0.05% None

 

 

   
Federated Hermes World Investment Series, Inc.    
Federated Hermes International Leaders Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes International Small-Mid Company Fund 0.05% None

 

2. CLASS A SHARES SUBJECT TO THE FIXED INCOME LOAD SCHEDULE

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1

Fee

Redemption

Fee

     
Federated Hermes Fixed Income Securities, Inc.    
Federated Hermes Strategic Income Fund None None
     
Federated Hermes Government Income Securities, Inc. 0.05% None
     
Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund, Inc. None 2% on shares redeemed or exchanged within 90 days of purchase
     
Federated Hermes High Yield Trust    
Federated Hermes Opportunistic High Yield Bond Fund 0.05% 2% on shares redeemed or exchanged within 90 days of purchase
     
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust    
Federated Hermes Fund for U.S. Government Securities None None
Federated Hermes Floating Rate Strategic Income Fund None None
     
Federated Hermes International Series, Inc.    
Federated Hermes Global Total Return Bond Fund (formerly Federated International Bond Fund) 0.25% None
     
Federated Hermes Investment Series Funds, Inc.    
Federated Hermes Corporate Bond Fund 0.05% None
     
Federated Hermes Municipal Bond Fund, Inc. None None
     
Federated Hermes Municipal Securities Income Trust    
Federated Hermes Municipal High Yield Advantage Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Ohio Municipal Income Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Pennsylvania Municipal Income Fund 0.05% None
     
Federated Hermes Total Return Series, Inc.    
Federated Hermes Core Bond Fund (formerly, Federated Hermes Select Total Return Bond Fund) 0.25% None
     
Federated Hermes World Investment Series, Inc.    
Federated Hermes Emerging Market Debt Fund None None

 

 
 

 

3. Class A Shares Subject to the MODIFIED FIXED INCOME Sales Load Schedule

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1

Fee

Redemption

Fee

     
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust    
Federated Hermes Floating Rate Strategic Income Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Short-Term Income Fund 0.05% None
     
Federated Hermes Institutional Trust    
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Total Return Bond Fund 0.05% None
     
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund 0.05% None

 

4. Class A Shares Subject to the Money Market AND ULTRASHORT BOND Load Schedule

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1

Fee

Redemption

Fee

     
Federated Hermes Fixed Income Securities, Inc.    
Federated Hermes Municipal Ultrashort Fund None None
     
Federated Hermes Institutional Trust    
Federated Hermes Government Ultrashort Fund None None
     
Federated Hermes Total Return Series, Inc.    
Federated Hermes Ultrashort Bond Fund None None
     
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust    
Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund 0.45% None

 

5.       Class A Shares Not Participating in the Large Ticket Purchase Program

Multiple Class Company Series
Federated Hermes Fixed Income Securities, Inc. Federated Hermes Municipal Ultrashort Fund
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust Federated Hermes Short-Term Income Fund
  Federated Hermes Floating Rate Strategic Income Fund
Federated Hermes Institutional Trust Federated Hermes Government Ultrashort Fund
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust  
Federated Hermes Total Return Series, Inc. Federated Hermes Ultrashort Bond Fund
 
 

 

CLASS A1 SHARES EXHIBIT TO

MULTIPLE CLASS PLAN

9/1/20

 

1. SEPARATE ARRANGEMENT AND EXPENSE ALLOCATION

 

A1 Shares are available for shareholders investing through certain financial intermediaries that have entered into an agreement with the Funds’ distributor who has approved them for the sale of A1 Shares. A1 Shares may also be purchased directly from the Fund in certain circumstances. For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Class A1 Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries in consideration of the payment of a portion of the applicable sales load (“dealer reallowance”) and a shareholder service fee. When indicated on the Schedule to this Exhibit, the principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may also receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a 12b-l Plan. In connection with this basic arrangement, Class A1 Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Class A1 Shares
Sales Load Up to 2.00% of the public offering price
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (“CDSC”) 0.00%
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-l Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Redemption Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class A1 Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

 

2. CONVERSION AND EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class A1 Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Class A1 Shares that are not subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) based upon the redemption of a “Large Ticket” purchase made within 24 months may be converted to any other Share Class within the same Fund, provided that shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: Class A1 Shares may be exchanged for Class A1 Shares of any other Fund

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

3. EXCEPTIONS TO BASIC ARRANGEMENTS

 

For purposes of Rules 22d-l and 6c-10 under the Act, unless otherwise specified on the Schedule to this Exhibit, the scheduled variations in sales loads and contingent deferred sales charges are as follows:

 

(A) BASIC SALES LOAD SCHEDULE

 

The basic schedule of sales loads for Class A1 Shares of Funds so designated on the Schedule to this Exhibit is as follows:

 

Purchase Amount

Sales Charge as a Percentage of

Public Offering Price

Less than $100,000 2.00%
$100,000 but less than $250,000 1.50%
$250,000 but less than $500,000 1.00%
$500,000 or greater 0.00%

 

(B) “LARGE TICKET” PURCHASES

 

Unless otherwise indicated on the Schedule to this Exhibit, a financial intermediary that places an order to purchase $1,000,000 or more of Class A1 Shares shall receive from the principal underwriter an advance commission equal to 75 basis points (0.75%) of the public offering price. In such event, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Plan or this Exhibit, such Class A1 Shares shall be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge upon redemption within 24 months of purchase equal to 75 basis points (0.75%) of the lesser of (x) the purchase price of the Class A1 Shares or (y) the redemption price of the Class A1 Shares. Any contingent deferred sales charge received upon redemption of Class A1 Shares shall be paid to the principal underwriter in consideration of the advance commission.

 

(C) REDUCING OR ELIMINATING THE SALES LOAD

 

Contingent upon notification to the Fund’s principal underwriter or transfer agent, in applying the exceptions set forth in this Section 3, the purchase amount shall take into account:

 

Discounts achieved by combining concurrent purchases of and/or current investment in Class A, Class A1, Class B, Class C, Class F, and Class R Shares, made or held by (or on behalf of) the investor, the investor’s spouse, and the investor’s children under age 21 (regardless of whether the purchases or investments are made or held directly or through an investment professional or through a single- participant retirement account); provided that such purchases and investments can be linked using tax identification numbers (TINs), social security numbers (SSNs), or Broker Identification Numbers (BINs); and
Letters of intent to purchase a certain amount of Class A1 Shares within a thirteen month period.

 

(D) WAIVER OF SALES LOAD

 

Continent upon notification to the Fund’s Transfer Agent, no sales load shall be assessed on purchases of Class A1 Shares made:

 

within 120 days of redeeming shares of an equal or greater amount;
through a program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary) and where the Financial Intermediary has agreed with the principal underwriter not to receive a dealer reallowance on purchases under such program;
with reinvested dividends or capital gains;
or Class A1 Shares, issued in connection with the merger, consolidation, or acquisition of the assets of another fund. Further, no sales load shall be assessed on purchases of Shares made by a shareholder that originally became a shareholder of a Federated Fund pursuant to the terms of an agreement and plan of reorganization which permits shareholders to acquire Shares at NAV provided that such Shares are held directly with the Funds transfer agent. If the Shares are held through a financial intermediary the sales charge waiver will not apply;
by Federated Life Members (Federated shareholders who originally were issued shares through the “Liberty Account”, which was an account for the Liberty Family of Funds on February 28, 1987, or who invested through an affinity group prior to August 1, 1987, into the Liberty Account);
by Directors, Trustees, employees, former employees and sales representatives of the Fund, the Adviser, the principal underwriter and their affiliates, employees of any investment professional that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the principal underwriter, by the immediate family members of the above persons, and by trusts, pensions or profit-sharing plans for the above persons; and
pursuant to the exchange privilege.

 

(E) WAIVER OF CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE ON LARGE-TICKET PURCHASES

 

Contingent upon notification to the Fund’s principal underwriter or transfer agent, no CDSC will be imposed on redemptions.

 

following the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account, or the post-purchase disability of all registered shareholder(s), as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code.
due to the termination of a trust following the death of the trustor/grantor or beneficiary, provided that the trust document specifically states that the trust is terminated upon the death
representing minimum required distributions (“RMD) from an Individual Retirement Account or other retirement plan as required under the Internal Revenue Code;
of Shares originally purchased through a financial intermediary that did not receive an advance commission on the purchase;
of Shares that were reinvested within 120 days of a previous redemption;
of Shares held by the Directors, Trustees, employees, former employees and sales representatives of the Fund, the Adviser, the principal underwriter and their affiliates, employees of any investment professional that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the principal underwriter, by the immediate family members of the above persons, and by trusts, pension or profit-sharing plans for the above persons;
of Shares originally purchased through a program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement, or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary) and where the Financial Intermediary has agreed with the principal underwriter not to receive an advanced commission on purchases under such program;
of Shares purchased with reinvested dividends or capital gains;
imposed by the Fund when it closes an account for not meeting the minimum balance requirements; and
of Shares which were purchased pursuant to an exchange privilege if the Shares were held for the applicable CDSC holding period.

 

4. REDEMPTION FEE

 

For purposes of Rule 11a-3 under the Act, any redemption fee received upon the redemption or exchange of Class A1 Shares will be applied to fees incurred or amount expended in connection with such redemption or exchange. The balance of any redemption fees shall be paid to the Fund.

 

A Fund shall waive any redemption fee with respect to (i) non-participant directed redemptions or exchanges involving Class A1 Shares held in retirement plans established under Section 40l(a) or 40l(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), custodial plan accounts established under Section 493(b)(7) of the Code, or deferred compensation plans established under Section 457 of the Code; (ii) redemptions or exchanges involving Class A1 Shares held in plans administered as college savings programs under Section 529 of the Code; and (iii) Class A1 Shares redeemed due to the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account.

 
 

 

 

SCHEDULE OF FUNDS OFFERING CLASS A1 SHARES

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class A1 Shares on the terms set forth in the Class A1 Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

1. CLASS A1 SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-l Fee Redemption Fee
     
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust    
Federated Hermes Floating Rate Strategic Income Fund 0.05% None
     

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

CLASS A2 SHARES

EXHIBIT TO

MULTIPLE CLASS PLAN

9/1/21

 

1.       SEPARATE ARRANGEMENT AND EXPENSE ALLOCATION

 

Class A2 (“A2”) Shares are available exclusively for shareholders investing through certain financial intermediaries that have entered into an agreement with the Fund’s distributor who has approved them for the sale of A2 Shares. For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Class A2 Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries in consideration of the payment of a portion of the applicable sales load (“dealer reallowance”) and an advance commission of up to 0.50% of the public offering price, paid by the principal underwriter. Financial intermediaries may also provide shareholder services and may receive shareholder services fees therefor. When indicated on the Schedule to this Exhibit, the principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may also receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a 12b-l Plan. In consideration of advancing commissions, the principal underwriter will receive the contingent deferred sales charges paid upon redemption of Class A2 Shares and payments made under the 12b-1 Plan for eighteen months following the purchase. In connection with this basic arrangement, Class A2 Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Class A2 Shares
Sales Load Up to 1.50% of the public offering price
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (“CDSC”) 0.50% of the share price at the time of purchase or redemption, whichever is lower, if redeemed within eighteen months following purchase
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-l Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Redemption Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class A2 Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

 

2.       CONVERSION AND EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class A2 Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Class A2 Shares may be converted to any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided: (i) the Class A2 Shares are no longer subject to a CDSC or the financial intermediary agrees to reimburse the Fund's distributor the CDSC otherwise payable upon the sale of such Class A2 Shares; and (ii) the shareholder meets the investment minimum and eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: Class A2 Shares may be exchanged for Class A or Class A2 Shares of any other Fund. However, if a shareholder exchanges into Class A Shares and subsequently redeems prior to the full CDSC period applicable to Class A2 Shares, the CDSC will be applied to such redemption.

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 

3.       EXCEPTIONS TO BASIC ARRANGEMENTS

 

For purposes of Rules 22d-l and 6c-10 under the Act, unless otherwise specified on the Schedule to this Exhibit, the scheduled variations in sales loads and contingent deferred sales charges are as follows:

 

(A)       BASIC SALES LOAD SCHEDULE

 

The basic schedule of sales loads for Class A2 Shares of Funds so designated on the Schedule to this Exhibit is as follows:

 

Purchase Amount Sales Charge as a Percentage of Public Offering Price
Less than $100,000 1.50%
$100,000 but less than $250,000 1.25%
$250,000 but less than $500,000 1.00%
$500,000 or greater 0.00%

 

 

(B)       “LARGE TICKET” PURCHASES

 

Unless otherwise indicated on the Schedule to this Exhibit, a financial intermediary that places an order to purchase $500,000 or more of Class A2 Shares shall receive from the principal underwriter an advance commission equal to 50 basis points (0.50%) of the public offering price, except that an order to purchase $20 million or more of Class A2 Shares shall carry a 25 basis points (0.25%) advance commission. In such event, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Plan or this Exhibit, such Class A2 Shares shall be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge upon redemption within 18 months of purchase equal to 50 basis points (0.50%) of the lesser of (x) the purchase price of the Class A2 Shares or (y) the redemption price of the Class A2 Shares. Any contingent deferred sales charge received upon redemption of Class A2 Shares shall be paid to the principal underwriter in consideration of the advance commission.

 

(C)       REDUCING OR ELIMINATING THE SALES LOAD

 

Contingent upon notification to the Fund’s principal underwriter or transfer agent, in applying the exceptions set forth in this Section 3, the purchase amount shall take into account:

 

                     Discounts achieved by combining concurrent purchases of and/or current investment in Class A, Class A1, Class A2, Class B, Class C, Class F, and Class R Shares, made or held by (or on behalf of) the investor, the investor’s spouse, and the investor’s children under age 21 (regardless of whether the purchases or investments are made or held directly or through an investment professional or through a single- participant retirement account); provided that such purchases and investments can be linked using tax identification numbers (TINs), social security numbers (SSNs), or Broker Identification Numbers (BINs); and

                     Letters of intent to purchase a certain amount of Class A2 Shares within a thirteen month period.

 

(D)       WAIVER OF SALES LOAD

 

Continent upon notification to the Fund’s Transfer Agent, no sales load shall be assessed on purchases of Class A2 Shares made:

 

                     within 120 days of redeeming shares of an equal or greater amount;

                     through a program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary) and where the Financial Intermediary has agreed with the principal underwriter not to receive a dealer reallowance on purchases under such program;

                     with reinvested dividends or capital gains;

                     or Class A2 Shares, issued in connection with the merger, consolidation, or acquisition of the assets of another fund. Further, no sales load shall be assessed on purchases of Shares made by a shareholder that originally became a shareholder of a Federated Fund pursuant to the terms of an agreement and plan of reorganization which permits shareholders to acquire Shares at NAV provided that such Shares are held directly with the Fund’ s transfer agent. If the Shares are held through a financial intermediary the sales charge waiver will not apply;

                     by Federated Life Members (Federated shareholders who originally were issued shares through the “Liberty Account”, which was an account for the Liberty Family of Funds on February 28, 1987, or who invested through an affinity group prior to August 1, 1987, into the Liberty Account);

                     by Directors, Trustees, employees, former employees and sales representatives of the Fund, the Adviser, the principal underwriter and their affiliates, employees of any investment professional that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the principal underwriter, by the immediate family members of the above persons, and by trusts, pensions or profit-sharing plans for the above persons; and

                     pursuant to the exchange privilege.

 

(E)       WAIVER OF CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE ON LARGE-TICKET PURCHASES

 

Contingent upon notification to the Fund’s principal underwriter or transfer agent, no CDSC will be imposed on redemptions.

 

                     following the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account, or the post-purchase disability of all registered shareholder(s), as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code.

                     due to the termination of a trust following the death of the trustor/grantor or beneficiary, provided that the trust document specifically states that the trust is terminated upon the death

                     representing minimum required distributions (“RMD”) from an Individual Retirement Account or other retirement plan as required under the Internal Revenue Code;

                     of Shares originally purchased through a financial intermediary that did not receive an advance commission on the purchase;

                     of Shares that were reinvested within 120 days of a previous redemption;

                     of Shares held by the Directors, Trustees, employees, former employees and sales representatives of the Fund, the Adviser, the principal underwriter and their affiliates, employees of any investment professional that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the principal underwriter, by the immediate family members of the above persons, and by trusts, pension or profit-sharing plans for the above persons;

                     of Shares originally purchased through a program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement, or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary) and where the Financial Intermediary has agreed with the principal underwriter not to receive an advanced commission on purchases under such program;

                     of Shares purchased with reinvested dividends or capital gains;

                     imposed by the Fund when it closes an account for not meeting the minimum balance requirements; and

                     of Shares which were purchased pursuant to an exchange privilege if the Shares were held for the applicable CDSC holding period.

 

 

(F)       SALES CHARGE WAIVERS FOR SHAREHOLDERS PURCHASING THROUGH CERTAIN FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

 

Financial intermediary sales charge variations required to be disclosed by Rule 22d-1 shall be set forth in the prospectus of a Fund, as may be amended from time to time.

 

4.       REDEMPTION FEE

 

For purposes of Rule 11a-3 under the Act, any redemption fee received upon the redemption or exchange of Class A2 Shares will be applied to fees incurred or amount expended in connection with such redemption or exchange. The balance of any redemption fees shall be paid to the Fund.

 

A Fund shall waive any redemption fee with respect to (i) non-participant directed redemptions or exchanges involving Class A2 Shares held in retirement plans established under Section 40l(a) or 40l(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), custodial plan accounts established under Section 493(b)(7) of the Code, or deferred compensation plans established under Section 457 of the Code; (ii) redemptions or exchanges involving Class A2 Shares held in plans administered as college savings programs under Section 529 of the Code; and (iii) Class A2 Shares redeemed due to the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account.

 

SCHEDULE OF FUNDS OFFERING CLASS A2 SHARES

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class A2 Shares on the terms set forth in the Class A2 Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

1.       CLASS A2 SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE

 

Multiple Class Company 12b-l Fee Redemption Fee
Series    
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust    
Federated Hermes Short-Term Income Fund 0.05% None
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Duration Municipal Trust    
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund 0.05% None

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

Administrative Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised 6/29/ 2020)

 

1.       SEPARATE ARRANGEMENT AND EXPENSE ALLOCATION

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Administrative (“ADM”) Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. The principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a Rule 12b-1 Plan and financial intermediaries may also receive shareholder service fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, ADM Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated ADM Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of ADM Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan
   

 

2.       CONVERSION AND EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, ADM Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, ADM Shares may be converted to any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: ADM Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of  Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

 

An exchange will be treated as a redemption and a subsequent purchase, and will be a taxable transaction. Exchange privileges may be modified or terminated at any time. A conversion of classes should not result in a realization for tax purposes.

 
 

 

Schedule of Funds
Offering ADM Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer ADM Shares on the terms set forth in the ADM Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

1.       ADM SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee Shareholder Service Fee
     
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust    
Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund 0.25% Up to 0.25%, with 0.05% of the service fee being active upon the initial offering of the ADM Shares and 0.20% remaining dormant until approved by the Fund’s Board

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

ADVISoR Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(6/29/20)

 

1.       SEPARATE ARRANGEMENT AND EXPENSE ALLOCATION

 

Advisor (“AVR”) Shares are available exclusively for shareholders investing through certain financial intermediaries that have entered into an agreement with the Funds’ distributor who has approved them for the sale of AVR Shares. For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the AVR Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. In connection with this basic arrangement, AVR Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated AVR Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of AVR Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan
   

 

2.       CONVERSION AND EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, AVR Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: None.
Exchange Privilege: AVR Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

 

An exchange will be treated as a redemption and a subsequent purchase, and will be a taxable transaction. Exchange privileges may be modified or terminated at any time.

 

 
 

Schedule of Funds
Offering AVR Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer AVR Shares on the terms set forth in the AVR Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

1.       AVR SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee
   
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust  
Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund None
Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund None
Federated Hermes Tax-Free Obligations Fund None

 

 
 

 

 

AUTOMATED Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(revised 6/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Automated Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. Financial intermediaries may receive shareholder service fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Automated Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Automated Shares
Sales Load None

Contingent Deferred

Sales Charge ("CDSC")

 

None

Shareholder Service Fee

Recordkeeping Fee

Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value

Up to 10 basis points (0.10%) of the average daily net asset value

12b-1 Fee None
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Automated Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Automated Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privileges: Automated Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered, after the payment of any redemption fees to the Fund. Exchanges shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 

Schedule of Funds
Offering AUTOMATED Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Automated Shares on the terms set forth in the Automated Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan.

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

 
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust
  Federated Hermes Municipal Obligations Fund
  Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund
  Federated Hermes Government Obligations Tax-Managed Fund
  Federated Hermes Treasury Obligations Fund

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

Class B Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised 6/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Class B Shares will consist of sales by financial intermediaries in consideration of the payment of an advance commission paid by the principal underwriter. Financial intermediaries may perform shareholder services and receive a shareholder service fee for their services. In consideration of advancing commissions and/or the provision of shareholder services, the principal underwriter may receive the contingent deferred sales charges paid upon redemption of Class B Shares, and/or shareholder service fees and/or fees under a 12b-1 plan. In connection with this basic arrangement, Class B Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Class B Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (“CDSC”) Up to 5.5% of the share price at the time of purchase or redemption, whichever is lower
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee Up to 75 basis points (0.75%) of the average daily net asset value
Redemption Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class B Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class B Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

Conversion Rights: After Class B Shares have been held for eight years from the date of purchase, they will automatically convert into Class A Shares.
Exchange Privilege: Class B Shares may be exchanged for Class B Shares of any other fund.

In any conversion or exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 
 

3.       Exceptions to Basic Arrangements

For purposes of Rules 6c-10 and 22d-1 under the Act, unless otherwise specified on the Schedule to this Exhibit, the scheduled variations in contingent deferred sales charges payable upon redemption are as follows:

(A)       BASIC CDSC SCHEDULE

Shares Held Up to: To: Have A CDSC Of:
1 year 5.50 %
2 years 4.75 %
3 years 4.00 %
4 years 3.00 %
5 years 2.00 %
6 years 1.00 %
7 years 0.00 %
8 years Convert to Class A Shares

 

(B)       WAIVER OF CDSC

Contingent upon notification to the Fund’s principal underwriter or transfer agent, no CDSC will be imposed on redemptions:

·                       following the death of the last surviving shareholder or post-purchase disability, as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986;
·                       due to the termination of a trust following the death of the trustor/grantor or beneficiary, provided that the trust document specifically states that the trust is terminated upon the death
·                       representing minimum required distributions (“RMD”) from an Individual Retirement Account or other retirement plan as required under the Internal Revenue Code;
·                       of Shares that were reinvested within 120 days of a previous redemption;
·                       of Shares held by the Directors, Trustees, employees, former employees and sales representatives of the Fund, the Adviser, the principal underwriter and their affiliates, employees of any investment professional that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the principal underwriter, by the immediate family members of the above persons, and by trusts, pension or profit-sharing plans for the above persons;
·                       of Shares originally purchased through a program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement, or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary) and where the Financial Intermediary has agreed with the principal underwriter not to receive an advanced commission on purchases under such program;
·                       of Shares purchased with reinvested dividends or capital gains;
·                       imposed by the Fund when it closes an account for not meeting the minimum balance requirements; and
·                       of Shares which were purchased pursuant to an exchange privilege if the Shares were held for the applicable CDSC holding period.

 

(C) SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PROGRAM

Contingent upon notification to the principal underwriter or the Fund’s transfer agent, no CDSC will be imposed on redemptions that are qualifying redemptions of Class B Shares under a Systematic Withdrawal Program as described in the applicable prospectus and statement of additional information.

(D) SALES CHARGE WAIVERS FOR SHAREHOLDERS PURCHASING THROUGH CERTAIN FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

 

Financial intermediary sales charge variations required to be disclosed by Rule 22d-1 shall be as set forth in the prospectus of a Fund, as may be amended from time to time.

 

4.       Redemption Fee

For purposes of Rule 11a-3 under the Act, any redemption fee received upon the redemption or exchange of Class B Shares will be applied to fees incurred or amount expended in connection with such redemption or exchange. The balance of any redemption fees shall be paid to the Fund.

A Fund shall waive any redemption fee with respect to (i) non-participant directed redemptions or exchanges involving Class B Shares held in retirement plans established under Section 401(a) or 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), custodial plan accounts established under Section 493(b)(7) of the Code, or deferred compensation plans established under Section 457 of the Code; (ii) redemptions or exchanges involving Class B Shares held in plans administered as college savings programs under Section 529 of the Code; and (iii) Class B Shares redeemed due to the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account.

Schedule of Funds
Offering Class B Shares

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class B Shares on the terms set forth in the Class B Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

CLASS B SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE

Multiple Class Company
Series
12b-1 Fee Redemption Fee
     
Federated Hermes Adviser Series:    
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Value Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Equity Funds:    
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Small Cap Fund 0.75% None
     
     
Federated Hermes Equity Income Fund, Inc. 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Fixed Income Securities, Inc.:    
Federated Hermes Strategic Income Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Global Allocation Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund, Inc. 0.75% 2% on shares redeemed or exchanged within 90 days of purchase
     
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust:    
Federated Hermes Capital Income Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Fund for U.S. Government Securities 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Muni and Stock Advantage Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Investment Series Funds, Inc.:    
Federated Hermes Corporate Bond Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes MDT Series:    
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Municipal Bond Fund, Inc. 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Municipal Securities Income Trust:    
Federated Hermes Municipal High Yield Advantage Fund 0.75% None
     
     

CLASS B SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE (continued)

 

Multiple Class Company
Series
12b-1 Fee Redemption Fee
     
Federated Hermes Total Return Series, Inc.:    
Federated Hermes Total Return Bond Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes World Investment Series, Inc.:    
Federated Hermes International Leaders Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:    
Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund 0.75% None

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

 

Class C Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(revised 09/01/21)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Class C Shares will consist of sales by financial intermediaries in consideration of an advance commission of up to 1.00% of the public offering price, paid by the principal underwriter. Financial intermediaries may also provide shareholder services and may receive shareholder services fees therefor. Additionally, the principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may receive distribution and/or administrative service fees under the 12b-1 Plan. In cases where the principal underwriter has advanced a commission to the financial intermediary, such 12b-1 fees will be paid to the financial intermediary beginning in the thirteenth month after purchase. In consideration of advancing commissions, the principal underwriter will receive the contingent deferred sales charges paid upon redemption of Class C Shares and payments made under the 12b-1 Plan for twelve months following the purchase. In connection with this basic arrangement, Class C Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Class C Shares
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (“CDSC”) 1.00% of the share price at the time of purchase or redemption, whichever is lower if redeemed within twelve months following purchase
   
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
   
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
   
Redemption Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
   
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class C Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class C Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights:

At the election of the shareholder, Class C Shares that are not subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) may be converted to any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable. For Class C Shares purchased through a financial intermediary after June 30, 2017, such shares may only be converted to another Share Class of the same Fund if: (i) the Class C Shares are no longer subject to a CDSC or the financial intermediary agrees to reimburse the Fund’s distributor the CDSC otherwise payable upon the sale of such Class C Shares; (ii) the shareholder meets the investment minimum and eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable; and (iii) (A) the conversion is made to facilitate the shareholder’s participation in a self-directed brokerage account for a fee-based advisory program offered by the intermediary, or (B) the conversion is part of a multiple-client transaction through a particular financial intermediary as pre-approved by the Fund’s Administrator.

After Class C Shares have been held for eight years from the date of purchase, they will automatically convert into Class A Shares on the next monthly conversion processing date, provided that the Fund or financial intermediary, record keeper, or platform has records confirming that the Class C Shares have been held for at least eight years and that Class A Shares are available for purchase. The financial intermediary, record keeper, or platform shall provide, upon the Fund’s request, representations that it has records confirming that the Class C Shares have been held for at least eight years and that Class A Shares are available for purchase. For Class C Shares acquired in an exchange from another Fund, the date of purchase will be based on the initial purchase of the Class C Shares of the prior Fund.”

Exchange Privileges: Class C Shares may be exchanged for Class C Shares of any other Fund.  

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 

3.       Exceptions to Basic Arrangements

 

For purposes of Rules 22d-1 and 6c-10 under the Act, unless otherwise specified on the Schedule to this Exhibit, the scheduled variations contingent deferred sales charges are as follows:

 

(A)        WAIVER OF CDSC

 

·                       following the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account, or post-purchase disability of all registered shareholder(s), as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code;
·                       due to the termination of a trust following the death of the trustor/grantor or beneficiary, provided that the trust document specifically states that the trust is terminated upon the death
·                       representing minimum required distributions (“RMD”) from an Individual Retirement Account or other retirement plan as required under the Internal Revenue Code;
·                       of Shares originally purchased through a financial intermediary that did not receive an advance commission on the purchase;
·                       of Shares that were reinvested within 120 days of a previous redemption;
·                       of Shares held by the Directors, Trustees, employees, former employees and sales representatives of the Fund, the Adviser, the principal underwriter and their affiliates, employees of any investment professional that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the principal underwriter, by the immediate family members of the above persons, and by trusts, pension or profit-sharing plans for the above persons;
·                       of Shares originally purchased through a program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement, or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary) and where the Financial Intermediary has agreed with the principal underwriter not to receive an advanced commission on purchases under such program;
·                       of Shares purchased with reinvested dividends or capital gains;
·                       imposed by the Fund when it closes an account for not meeting the minimum balance requirements; and
·                       of Shares which were purchased pursuant to an exchange privilege if the Shares were held for the applicable CDSC holding period.

 

(B) SALES CHARGE WAIVERS FOR SHAREHOLDERS PURCHASING THROUGH CERTAIN FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES

 

Financial intermediary sales charge variations required to be disclosed by Rule 22d-1 shall be as set forth in the prospectus of a Fund, as may be amended from time to time.

4.       Redemption Fee

 

For purposes of Rule 11a-3 under the Act, any redemption fee received upon the redemption or exchange of Class C Shares will be applied to fees incurred or amount expended in connection with such redemption or exchange. The balance of any redemption fees shall be paid to the Fund.

A Fund shall waive any redemption fee with respect to (i) non-participant directed redemptions or exchanges involving Class C Shares held in retirement plans established under Section 401(a) or 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), custodial plan accounts established under Section 493(b)(7) of the Code, or deferred compensation plans established under Section 457 of the Code; (ii) redemptions or exchanges involving Class C Shares held in plans administered as college savings programs under Section 529 of the Code; and (iii) Class C Shares redeemed due to the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account.

 

 
 

 

Schedule of Funds

Offering Class C Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class C Shares on the terms set forth in the Class C Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

CLASS C SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE

Multiple Class Company
Series
12b-1 Fee Redemption Fee
Federated Hermes Adviser Series    
Federated Hermes Emerging Markets Equity Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Absolute Return Credit Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Global Equity Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Global Small Cap Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes International Equity Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes SDG Engagement Equity Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes SDG Engagement High Yield Credit Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Unconstrained Credit Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes US SMID Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes International Equity Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes International Growth Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Value Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Equity Funds:    
Federated Hermes Clover Small Value Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes International Strategic Value Dividend Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Large Cap Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Small Cap Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes MDT Mid-Cap Growth Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Prudent Bear Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Strategic Value Dividend Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Equity Income Fund, Inc. 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Fixed Income Securities, Inc.:    
Federated Hermes Strategic Income Fund 0.75% None
    None
Federated Hermes Global Allocation Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Government Income Securities, Inc. 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund, Inc. 0.75% 2% on shares redeemed or exchanged within 90 days of purchase
     
     
Federated Hermes High Yield Trust 0.75% 2% on shares redeemed or exchanged within 90 days of purchase
     
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust:    
Federated Hermes Capital Income Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Fund for U.S. Government Securities 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Muni and Stock Advantage Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes Real Return Bond Fund 0.75% None
     
 
 

CLASS C SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE (continued)

Multiple Class Company
Series
12b-1 Fee Redemption Fee
Federated Hermes Index Trust    
Federated Hermes Max-Cap Index Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes International Series, Inc.:    
Federated Hermes Global Total Return Bond Fund
(formerly Federated International Bond Fund)
0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Investment Series Funds, Inc.:    
Federated Hermes Corporate Bond Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes MDT Series:    
Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Municipal Bond Fund, Inc. 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Municipal Securities Income Trust:    
Federated Hermes Municipal High Yield Advantage Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Total Return Series, Inc.:    
Federated Hermes Total Return Bond Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes World Investment Series, Inc.:    
Federated Hermes Emerging Market Debt Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes International Leaders Fund 0.75% None
Federated Hermes International Small-Mid Company Fund 0.75% None
     
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:    
Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund 0.75% None

 

 

 
 

 

 

Capital Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised 6/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Capital Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. Financial intermediaries may receive shareholder service fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Capital Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Capital Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee None
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Capital Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Capital Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into   any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privileges: Capital Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes  Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other fund or class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 
 

Schedule of Funds

Offering Capital Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Capital Shares on the terms set forth in the Capital Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan.

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

 
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust
  Federated Hermes California Municipal Cash Trust
  Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund
  Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management
  Federated Hermes Municipal Obligations Fund
  Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund
  Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund
  Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund
  Federated Hermes Treasury Obligations Fund

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

CasH II Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan
(r
evised 6/29/20)

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Cash II Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. The principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a 12b-1 Plan and financial intermediaries may also receive shareholder services fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Cash II Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Cash II Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Cash II Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Cash II Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: Cash II Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other fund or class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 
 

 

Schedule of Funds
Offering Cash II Shares

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Cash II Shares on the terms set forth in the Cash II Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

Multiple Class Company
Series
12b-1 Fee
   
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:  
Federated Hermes California Municipal Cash Trust 0.20%
Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund 0.35%
Federated Hermes Municipal Obligations Fund 0.35%
Federated Hermes New York Municipal Cash Trust 0.25%
Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund 0.35%
Federated Hermes Trust for U.S. Treasury Obligations 0.35%

 

 
 

 

 

Cash series Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised 12/1/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement for the Cash Series Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. The principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a 12b-1 Plan and financial intermediaries may receive a shareholder service fee for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Cash Series Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Cash Series Shares
Sales Load None

Contingent Deferred

Sales Charge ("CDSC")

None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Cash Series Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Cash Series Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privileges: Cash Series Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other fund or class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 
 

Schedule of Funds

Offering Cash Series Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Cash Series Shares on the terms set forth in the Cash Series Shares Exhibit to Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

Multiple Class Company 12b-1 Fee
   
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:  
Federated Hermes California Municipal Cash Trust 0.60%
Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund 0.60%
Federated Hermes Municipal Obligations Fund 0.60%
Federated Hermes New York Municipal Cash Trust 0.60%
Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund 0.60%
Federated Hermes Trust for U.S. Treasury Obligations 0.60%

 

 
 

 

 

 

EAGLE Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised 06/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Eagle Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. The principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a Rule 12b-1 Plan and financial intermediaries may also receive shareholder service fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Eagle Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Eagle Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Eagle Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Eagle Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: Eagle Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 
 

Schedule of FundS

Offering EAGLE Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Eagle Shares on the terms set forth in the Eagle Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

Multiple Class Company
Series
12b-1 Fee
   
   

Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:

Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management

 

None

 

 

 
 

 

 

Class F Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised 6/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement for the Class F Shares will consist of sales by financial intermediaries in consideration of the payment of the sales load (“dealer reallowance”). Financial intermediaries may also provide shareholder services and may receive shareholder service fees therefor. Additionally, the principal underwriter may pay up to 100 basis points (1.00%) of the public offering price to financial intermediaries as an advance commission on sales. In consideration of advancing this payment, the principal underwriter will receive any contingent deferred sales charges paid upon redemption of Class F Shares and distribution service fees under the 12b-1 Plan on an ongoing basis. In connection with this basic arrangement Class F Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Class F Shares
Sales Load Up to 100 basis points (1.00%) of the public offering price
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") Up to 100 basis points (1.00%) of the share price at the time of original purchase or redemption, whichever is lower
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class F Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class F Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Class F Shares that are not subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privileges: Class F Shares may be exchanged for Class F Shares of any other Fund.  

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated as a redemption and purchase.

 

3.       Exceptions to Basic Arrangements

 

For purposes of Rules 22d-1 and 6c-10 under the Act, unless otherwise specified on the Schedule to this Exhibit, the scheduled variations in sales load and contingent deferred sales charges are as follows:

 

(A)       BASIC SALES LOAD SCHEDULE *

 

 

Purchase Amount:

Sales Charge as Percentage of Offering Price Sales Charge as a Percentage of NAV
Less than $1 million 1.00% 1.01%
$1 million or greater 0.00% 0.00%

(B)       CDSC SCHEDULE

Unless otherwise indicated below, the Schedule of Contingent Deferred Sales Charges for each Fund is as follows:

 

 

Purchase Amount:

 

Shares Held:

Contingent Deferred Sales Charge:  
Under $2 million 4 years or less 1.00%
$2 million but less than $5 million 2 years or less 0.50%
$ 5 million or greater 1 year or less 0.25%

 

(C)       REDUCING OR ELIMINATING THE SALES LOAD

 

Contingent upon notification to the Fund’s principal underwriter or transfer agent, in applying the exceptions set forth in this Section 3, the purchase amount shall take into account:

 

  Discounts achieved by combining concurrent purchases of and/or current investment in Class A, Class B, Class C, Class F, and Class R Shares, made or held by (or on behalf of) the investor, the investor’s spouse, and the investor’s children under age 21 (regardless of whether the purchases or investments are made or held directly or through an investment professional or through a single-participant retirement account); provided that such purchases and investments can be linked using tax identification numbers (TINs), social security numbers (SSNs), or Broker Identification Numbers (BINs); and
  Letters of intent to purchase a certain amount of Class F Shares within a thirteen month period.

 

(D)       WAIVER OF SALES LOAD

 

Contingent upon notification to the Fund's principal underwriter or transfer agent, no sales load will be assessed on purchases of Class F Shares made:

 

·           within 120 days of redeeming Shares of an equal or greater amount;
·           through a financial intermediary that did not receive a dealer reallowance on the purchase;
  by shareholders who originally became shareholders of a Fund pursuant to the terms of an agreement and plan of reorganization which permits the shareholders to acquire shares at net asset value.  However, if the shareholder closes their account with the transfer agent, or if the shareholder transfers their account to another financial intermediary, the shareholder may no longer receive a sales charge waiver;
·           with reinvested dividends or capital gains;
·           by Directors, Trustees, employees, former employees and sales representatives of the Fund, the Adviser, the principal underwriter and their affiliates, employees of any investment professional that sells shares according to a sales agreement with the principal underwriter, by the immediate family members of the above persons, and by trusts, pension or profit-sharing plans for the above persons; and
·           pursuant to the exchange privilege.

 

 
 

 

(E)       WAIVER OF CDSC

 

Contingent upon notification to the Fund’s principal underwriter or transfer agent, no CDSC will be imposed on redemptions:

 

following the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account,  or post-purchase disability of all registered shareholder(s), as defined in Section 72(m)(7) of the Internal Revenue Code;
due to the termination of a trust following the death of the trustor/grantor or beneficiary, provided that the trust document specifically states that the trust is terminated upon the death
representing minimum required distributions (“RMD”) from an Individual Retirement Account or other retirement plan as required under the Internal Revenue Code;
of Shares originally purchased through a financial intermediary that did not receive an advance commission on the purchase.
of Shares that were reinvested within 120 days of a previous redemption of an equal or lesser amount;
of Shares held by the Directors, Trustees, employees, former employees and sales representatives of the Fund, the Adviser, the principal underwriter and their affiliates, employees of any investment professional that sells Shares according to a sales agreement with the principal underwriter, by the immediate family members of the above persons, and by trusts, pension or profit-sharing plans for the above persons;
of Shares originally purchased through a program offered by a Financial Intermediary that provides for the purchase of Shares without imposition of a sales charge (for example, a wrap account, self-directed brokerage account, retirement, or other fee-based program offered by the Financial Intermediary) and where the Financial Intermediary has agreed with the principal underwriter not to receive an advanced commission on purchases under such program;
of Shares purchased with reinvested dividends or capital gains;
imposed by the Fund when it closes an account for not meeting the minimum balance requirements;
of Shares which were purchased pursuant to an exchange privilege if the Shares were held for the applicable CDSC holding period; and
representing a total or partial distribution from a qualified plan, which would not include account transfer, rollovers, or redemptions for the purpose of reinvestment.  For these purposes, qualified plans would not include an Individual Retirement Account, Keogh Plan or custodial account following retirement.

 

 
 

 

Schedule of Funds

Offering Class F Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class F Shares on the terms set forth in the Class F Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

CLASS F SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee
   
Federated Hermes Equity Income Fund, Inc. 0.25%
   

Federated Hermes Fixed Income Securities, Inc.:

Federated Hermes Strategic Income Fund

 

0.05%

   
Federated Hermes Government Income Securities, Inc. None
   

Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust:

Federated Hermes Capital Income Fund

Federated Hermes Muni and Stock Advantage Fund

 

0.05%

None

   

Federated Hermes Investment Series Funds, Inc.:

Federated Hermes Corporate Bond Fund

 

None

   
Federated Hermes Municipal Bond Fund, Inc. None
   

Federated Hermes Municipal Securities Income Trust:

Federated Hermes Municipal High Yield Advantage Fund

Federated Hermes Ohio Municipal Income Fund

 

0.05%

0.40%

   

Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:

Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund

 

0.45%

 

 
 

 

 

Institutional/WEALTH Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(REVISED 6/1/2021)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Institutional and Wealth Shares will consist of

 

(i) with respect to money market funds, sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries; and
   
(ii) with respect to fluctuating NAV funds, sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries to the following categories of investors (“Eligible Investors”);

 

·           An investor participating in a no-load platform, network or other fee-based program offered by a financial intermediary, for example, a wrap-account or retirement platform, where Federated has entered into an agreement with the intermediary;
·           A trustee/director, employee or former employee of the Fund, the Adviser, the Distributor and their affiliates; an immediate family member of these individuals, or a trust, pension or profit-sharing plan for these individuals;
·           An employer-sponsored retirement plan;
·           A trust institution investing on behalf of its trust customers;
·           A Federated Hermes Fund;
·           An investor, other than a natural person, purchasing Shares directly from the Fund;
·           An investor (including a natural person) who owned Shares as of December 31, 2008;
·           Without regard to the initial investment minimum, an investor who acquired Institutional and/or Wealth Shares pursuant to the terms of an agreement and plan of reorganization which permits the investor to acquire such Shares; and
·           Without regard to the initial investment minimum, in connection with an acquisition of an investment management or advisory business, or related investment services, products or assets, by Federated or its investment advisory subsidiaries, an investor (including a natural person) who (1) becomes a client of an investment advisory subsidiary of Federated or (2) is a shareholder or interest holder of a pooled investment vehicle or product that becomes advised or subadvised by a Federated investment advisory subsidiary as a result of such an acquisition other than as a result of a fund reorganization transaction pursuant to an agreement and plan of reorganization.

 

 
 

The principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a Rule 12b-1 Plan and financial intermediaries may also receive shareholder service fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Institutional and Wealth Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Institutional and Wealth Shares
Sales Load None

Contingent Deferred

Sales Charge ("CDSC")

 

None

Shareholder Service Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Institutional and/or Wealth Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Institutional and Wealth Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: Institutional and/or Wealth Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 

3.       REDEMPTION FEE.

 

For purposes of Rule 11a-3 under the Act, any redemption fee received upon the redemption or exchange of Institutional and/or Wealth Shares will be applied to fees incurred or amount expended in connection with such redemption or exchange. The balance of any redemption fees shall be paid to the Fund.

 

A Fund shall waive any redemption fee with respect to (i) non-participant directed redemptions or exchanges involving Institutional and/or Wealth Shares held in retirement plans established under Section 401(a) or 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), custodial plan accounts established under Section 493(b)(7) of the Code, or deferred compensation plans established under Section 457 of the Code; (ii) redemptions or exchanges involving Institutional and/or Wealth Shares held in plans administered as college savings programs under Section 529 of the Code; and (iii) Institutional and/or Wealth Shares redeemed due to the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account.

 
 

Schedule of Funds
Offering institutional Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Institutional Shares on the terms set forth in the Institutional/-Wealth Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee

Shareholder

Service Fee

Redemption Fee
       
Federated Hermes Adjustable Rate Securities Trust None None None
       
Federated Hermes Adviser Series      
Federated Hermes Emerging Markets Equity Fund 0.00% 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Absolute Return Credit Fund 0.00% 0.00% None
Federated Hermes Conservative Microshort Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Conservative Municipal Microshort Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Global Equity Fund None 0.00% None
Federated Hermes Global Small Cap Fund None 0.00% None
Federated Hermes International Developed Equity Fund None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes SDG Engagement Equity Fund 0.00% 0.00% None
Federated Hermes SDG Engagement High Yield Credit Fund 0.00% 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Unconstrained Credit Fund None 0.00% None
Federated Hermes US SMID Fund None None None
Federated Hermes International Equity Fund 0.00% 0.25% None
Federated Hermes International Growth Fund 0.00% 0.25% None
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Value Fund 0.00% 0.25% None
Federated Hermes MDT Market Neutral Fund 0.05% None None
Federated Hermes Equity Funds:      
Federated Hermes Absolute Return Credit Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Clover Small Value Fund None None None
Federated Hermes International Strategic Value Dividend Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Large Cap Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Small Cap Fund None None None
Federated Hermes MDT Mid Cap Growth Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Prudent Bear Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Strategic Value Dividend Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes Equity Income Fund, Inc. None None None
       
Federated Hermes Fixed Income Securities, Inc.:      
Federated Hermes Municipal Ultrashort Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Strategic Income Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes Global Allocation Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes Government Income Trust None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Government Income Securities, Inc. None None None
Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes High Yield Trust      
Federated Hermes Opportunistic High Yield Bond Fund None None None
       

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee

Shareholder

Service Fee

Redemption Fee
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust:      
Federated Hermes Capital Income Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Floating Rate Strategic Income Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Fund for U.S. Government Securities None None None
Federated Hermes Intermediate Corporate Bond Fund None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Muni and Stock Advantage Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Real Return Bond Fund None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Short-Term Income Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes Index Trust:      
Federated Hermes Max-Cap Index Fund None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Mid-Cap Index Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes Institutional Trust:      
Federated Hermes Government Ultrashort Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Total Return Bond Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes International Series, Inc.      
Federated Hermes Global Total Return Bond Fund (formerly Federated International Bond Fund) None None None
       
Federated Hermes Investment Series Fund, Inc.      
Federated Hermes Corporate Bond Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes MDT Series:      
Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund None None None
Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund None None None
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund None None None
Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund None None None
Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes Municipal Bond Fund, Inc. None None None
       
Federated Hermes Municipal Securities Income Trust      
Federated Hermes Michigan Intermediate Municipal Trust None None None
Federated Hermes Municipal High Yield Advantage Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Ohio Municipal Income Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Pennsylvania Municipal Income Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund None 0.25% None
       
Federated Hermes Total Return Government Bond Fund None None None

 

 

 

     
Federated Hermes Total Return Series, Inc.:      

 

Federated Hermes Core Fund (formerly, Federated Hermes Select Total Return Bond Fund)

None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Total Return Bond Fund None None None
Federated Hermes Ultrashort Bond Fund None 0.25% None
       
Federated Hermes Short-Term Government Fund None 0.25% None
       
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Government Fund None 0.25% None

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee

Shareholder

Service Fee

Redemption Fee
       
Federated Hermes World Investment Series, Inc.      
Federated Hermes Emerging Market Debt Fund None None None
Federated Hermes International Leaders Fund None None None
Federated Hermes International Small-Mid Company Fund None None None
       
Federated Hermes Intermediate Municipal Trust:      
Federated Hermes Intermediate Municipal Fund None 0.25% None
       
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:      
Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Government Obligations Tax-Managed Fund None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Treasury Obligations Fund None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Trust for U.S. Treasury Obligations None None None
Federated Hermes U.S. Treasury Cash Reserves None 0.25% None

 

 
 

 

Schedule of Funds
Offering WEALTH Shares

 

The Retail Money Market Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Wealth Shares on the terms set forth in the Institutional/Wealth Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee

Shareholder

Service Fee

Redemption Fee
       
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:      
Federated Hermes California Municipal Cash Trust None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Municipal Obligations Fund None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes New York Municipal Cash Trust None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund None 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Tax-Free Obligations Fund None 0.25% None

 

 
 

 

 

investment Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan
(Revised 06/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Investment Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. Financial intermediaries may receive shareholder service fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Investment Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Investment Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (“CDSC”) None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Investment Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Investment Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Rights: Investment Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 
 

Schedule of Funds

Offering Investment Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Investment Shares on the terms set forth in the Investment Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan.

 

 

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee
   
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:  
Federated Hermes Municipal Obligations Fund 0.25%

 

 

 
 

 

CLASS P Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(revised 6/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Class P Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. Financial intermediaries may receive shareholder service fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Automated Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Class P Shares
Sales Load None

Contingent Deferred

Sales Charge ("CDSC")

 

None

Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
Recordkeeping Fee Up to 10 basis points (0.10%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee None
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class P Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class P Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: None.
Exchange Privileges: Class P Shares may only be exchanged into Federated Hermes Capital Reserves Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered, after the payment of any redemption fees to the Fund. Exchanges shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 

 
 

Schedule of Funds
Offering Class P Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class P Shares on the terms set forth in the Class P Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan.

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

 
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust
  Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund

 

 
 

 

 

PREMIER Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised as of 6/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Premier Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. The principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a Rule 12b-1 Plan and financial intermediaries may also receive shareholder service fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Premier Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Premier Shares
Sales Load None

Contingent Deferred

Sales Charge ("CDSC")

None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Premier Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Premier Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: Premier Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

An exchange will be treated as a redemption and a subsequent purchase, and will be a taxable transaction. Exchange privileges may be modified or terminated at any time.

 

Schedule of Funds

Offering PREMIER Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Premier Shares on the terms set forth in the Premier Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee
   

Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:

Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund

 

None

Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust None

 

 
 

 

 

Primary Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(REVISED 6/29/2020)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

Primary Shares are available exclusively as an investment vehicle for separate accounts of participating life insurance companies offering variable life insurance policies and variable annuity contracts. For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Primary Shares will consist of institutional sales to insurance companies for Primary Share inclusion in those variable life and variable annuity product separate accounts. The insurance company distributor, underwriter or affiliated entity may provide shareholder services and receive a shareholder service fee for their services. In connection with this basic arrangement, Primary Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Primary Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Primary Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Primary Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privileges: None.

 

 
 

 

 

Schedule of Funds

Offering Primary Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Primary Shares on the terms set forth in the Primary Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan.

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee
   
Federated Hermes Insurance Series:  
Federated Hermes Managed Volatility Fund II 0.25%
Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund II None
Federated  Hermes Kaufmann Fund II 0.25%
Federated Hermes Government Money Fund II 0.25%
Federated Hermes Quality Bond Fund II 0.25%

 

 

 
 

 

Class R Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(revised 09/01/20)

 

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement for the Class R Shares will consist of:

 

(i)       Excepting Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund, sales by financial intermediaries to retirement plans, with shareholder services provided by the retirement plan record keepers; and

 

(ii)  with respect to the Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund, (a) sales by financial intermediaries to retirement plans; (b) the issuance of Class R Shares as provided in the Plan of Reorganization between the Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund and the Kaufmann Fund; (c) additional investments by former Kaufmann Fund shareholders and related persons; and (d) shareholder services provided by financial intermediaries..

 

Financial intermediaries and the principal underwriter may receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a Rule 12b-1 Plan, in addition, financial intermediaries may receive shareholder service fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Class R Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Class R Shares
Sales Load None

Contingent Deferred Sales

Charge ("CDSC")

None
Redemption Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule.
Shareholder Service Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class R Shares as described in Section 3 of the Multiple Class Plan

 

 
 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class R Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: Excepting Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund, at the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege:

With respect to the Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund, shareholders who are former shareholders of the Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund, Inc. and their immediate family members or shareholders who have purchased shares through the financial intermediary relationships that existed for the Kaufmann Fund may exchange their Class R Shares for Class A Shares of any other fund. Investors who are eligible to purchase Class R Shares (e.g. 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans, defined benefit plans, non-qualified deferred compensation plans and IRA rollovers from such plans, directly or through financial intermediaries as well as IRAs and investment – only 403(b) plans held through financial intermediaries may exchange their Class R Shares into Class R Shares of any other Fund. A Grandfathered Shareholder may exchange into Class R Shares of another Fund only if such shareholder is an eligible investor in the Class R Shares of that Fund.

With respect to the other funds, Class R Shares may be exchanged for Class R Shares, including the Kaufmann Fund.

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered, after the payment of any redemption fees to the Fund. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 

3.       Redemption Fee

 

For purposes of Rule 11a-3 under the Act, any redemption fee received upon the redemption or exchange of Class R Shares will be applied to fees incurred or amounts expended in connection with such redemption or exchange. The balance of any redemption fees shall be paid to the Fund.

A Fund shall waive any redemption fee with respect to Class R Shares redeemed or exchange by employer-sponsored retirement plans.

 
 

Schedule of Funds

Offering Class R Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class R Shares on the terms set forth in the Class R Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

Multiple Class Company
Series
12b-1 Fee Shareholder Services Fee Redemption Fee
       
Federated Hermes Adviser Series      
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Value Fund 0.50% None None
       
Federated Hermes Equity Funds:      
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund 0.50% 0.25% None
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Small Cap Fund 0.50% None None
       
Federated Hermes Equity Income Fund, Inc. 0.50% None None
       
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust      
Federated Hermes Capital Income Fund 0.50% None None
       
Federated Hermes Index Trust:      
Federated Hermes Max-Cap Index Fund 0.50% None None
       
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Government Fund 0.50% None None
       
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:      
Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund 0.50% 0.25% None
       
Federated Hermes World Investment Series, Inc.      
Federated Hermes International Leaders Fund 0.50% None None
       

 

 
 

 

CLASS R6 Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(revised as of 6/1/21)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Class R6 Shares will consist of:

 

(i) sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries to the following categories of investors (“Eligible Investors”):

 

·                                                           An investor participating in a no-load platform, network or other fee-based program offered by a financial intermediary, for example, a wrap account or retirement platform, where Federated has entered into an agreement with the intermediary;
·                                                           A trustee/director, employee or former employee of the Fund, the Adviser, the Distributor and their affiliates; an immediate family member of these individuals, or a trust, pension or profit-sharing plan for these individuals;
·                                                           An employer-sponsored retirement plan;
·                                                           A trust institution investing on behalf of its trust customers;
·                                                           An investor, other than a natural person, purchasing Shares directly from the Fund;
·                                                           A Federated Fund;
·                                                           An investor (including a natural person) who acquired R6 Shares pursuant to the terms of an agreement and plan of reorganization which permits the investor to acquire such Shares; and
·                                                           In connection with an acquisition of an investment management or advisory business, or related investment services, products or assets, by Federated or its investment advisory subsidiaries, an investor (including a natural person) who (1) becomes a client of an investment advisory subsidiary of Federated or (2) is a shareholder or interest holder of a pooled investment vehicle or product that becomes advised or subadvised by a Federated investment advisory subsidiary as a result of such an acquisition other than as a result of a fund reorganization transaction pursuant to an agreement and plan of reorganization.

 

In connection with this arrangement, Class R6 Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated R6 Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee None
Redemption Fee None
12b-1 Fee None
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class R6 Shares.

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class R6 Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privileges: Class R6 Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered, after the payment of any redemption fees to the Fund. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 

 

 

 

 

 

(schedule of funds listed on next page)

 

 
 

 

Schedule of Funds

Offering CLASS R6 Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class R6 Shares on the terms set forth in the Class R6 Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan.

 

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

   
  Federated Hermes Adviser Series
Federated Hermes Emerging Markets Equity Fund
Federated Hermes Absolute Return Credit Fund
Federated Hermes Global Equity Fund
Federated Hermes Global Small Cap Fund
Federated Hermes International Developed Equity Fund
Federated Hermes SDG Engagement Equity Fund
Federated Hermes SDG Engagement High Yield Credit Fund
Federate Hermes Unconstrained Credit Fund
Federated Hermes US SMID Fund
Federated Hermes International Equity Fund
Federated Hermes International Growth Fund
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Value Fund
 
  Federated Hermes Equity Funds
    Federated Hermes Clover Small Value Fund
    Federated Hermes International Strategic Value Dividend Fund
    Federated Hermes Kaufmann Large Cap Fund
    Federated Hermes Kaufmann Small Cap Fund
    Federated Hermes MDT Mid Cap Growth Fund
    Federated Hermes Strategic Value Dividend Fund
   
  Federated Hermes Fixed Income Securities, Inc.
    Federated Hermes Municipal Ultrashort Fund
    Federated Hermes Strategic Income Fund
   
  Federated Hermes Global Allocation Fund
   
  Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund, Inc.
   
  Federated Hermes High Yield Trust
  Federated Hermes Opportunistic High Yield Bond Fund
   
  Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust
  Federated Hermes Floating Rate Strategic Income Fund
  Federated Hermes Short-Term Income Fund
   
  Federated Hermes Index Trust
  Federated Hermes Mid-Cap Index Fund
   
  Federated Hermes Institutional Trust
  Federated Hermes Government Ultrashort Fund
  Federated Hermes Institutional High Yield Bond Fund
  Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Total Return Bond Fund
   
  Federated Hermes Investment Series Funds, Inc.
  Federated Hermes Corporate Bond Fund
   
  Federated Hermes MDT Series
  Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund
  Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund
  Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund
  Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund
   
  Federated Hermes Total Return Government Bond Fund
   
  Federated Hermes Total Return Series, Inc.
  Federated Hermes Core Bond Fund (formerly, Federated Hermes Select Total Return Bond Fund)
  Federated Hermes Total Return Bond Fund
  Federated Hermes Ultrashort Bond Fund
   
  Federated Hermes World Investment Series, Inc.
  Federated Hermes International Leaders Fund
   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

retirement Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised 6/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement for the Retirement Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. Financial intermediaries may receive a shareholder service fee for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Retirement Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Retirement Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee None
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Retirement Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Retirement Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: ·                                                         Retirement Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange..

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 
 

Schedule of Funds

Offering retirement Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Retirement Shares on the terms set forth in the Retirement Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan:

 

Multiple Class Company Series
   
None  

 

 
 

 

SELECT Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised 06/29/2020)

 

1.       SEPARATE ARRANGEMENT AND EXPENSE ALLOCATION

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Select Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries. Financial intermediaries may receive shareholder service fees for services provided. In connection with this basic arrangement, Select Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Select Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee None
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Select Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       CONVERSION AND EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Select Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: Select Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchase (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other fund or class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 

 

SCHEDULE OF FUNDS

OFFERING SELECT SHARES

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

 
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust
     Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

Service Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan
(revised 6/1/2021)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

With respect to Funds other than portfolios of Federated Insurance Series, for purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Service Shares will consist of

 

(i) with respect to money market funds, sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries; and
   
(ii) with respect to fluctuating NAV funds, sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries to the following categories of investors (“Eligible Investors”);

 

·                                                           An investor participating in a wrap program or other fee-based program sponsored by a financial intermediary;
·                                                           An investor participating in a no-load network or platform sponsored by a financial intermediary where Federated has entered into an agreement with the intermediary;
·                                                           A trustee/director, employee or former employee of the Fund, the Adviser, the Distributor and their affiliates; an immediate family member of these individuals, or a trust, pension or profit-sharing plan for these individuals;
·                                                           An employer-sponsored retirement plan;
·                                                           A trust institution investing on behalf of its trust customers;
·                                                           A Federated Fund;
·                                                           An investor, other than a natural person, purchasing Shares directly from the Fund;
·                                                           An investor (including a natural person) who owned Shares as of December 31, 2008;
·                                                           Without regard to the initial investment minimum, an investor who acquired Service Shares pursuant to the terms of an agreement and plan of reorganization which permits the investor to acquire such Shares; and
·                                                           Without regard to the initial investment minimum, in connection with an acquisition of an investment management or advisory business, or related investment services, products or assets, by Federated or its investment advisory subsidiaries, an investor (including a natural person) who (1) becomes a client of an investment advisory subsidiary of Federated or (2) is a shareholder or interest holder of a pooled investment vehicle or product that becomes advised or subadvised by a Federated investment advisory subsidiary as a result of such an acquisition other than as a result of a fund reorganization transaction pursuant to an agreement and plan of reorganization.

 

The principal underwriter and financial intermediaries may receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a Rule 12b-1 Plan and financial intermediaries may also receive shareholder service fees for services provided.

 

With respect to portfolios of Federated Hermes Insurance Series, Service Shares are available exclusively as an investment vehicle for separate accounts of participating life insurance companies offering variable life insurance policies and variable annuity contracts. For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of Service Shares will consist of institutional sales to insurance companies for Service Share inclusion in those variable life insurance and annuity product separate accounts. The insurance company distributor, underwriter or other affiliated entity may provide shareholder services and receive a shareholder service fee for their services and when indicated on the Schedule to this Exhibit, may also receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a 12b-1 Plan.

In connection with these basic arrangements, Service Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Service Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Service Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Service Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privileges:

For Funds other than portfolios of Federated Hermes Insurance Series, Service Shares may be exchanged for exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange. Service Shares may also be exchanged for shares of Investment Companies that are not subject to this Plan, as provided in the "Proprietary Fund Schedule" attached hereto.

With respect to portfolios of Federated Hermes Insurance Series: None

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered, unless Class A Shares or Class F Shares which are subject to a CDSC are being exchanged, in which case the CDSC fee will be imposed as if the Class A Shares or Class F Shares had been redeemed. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 
 

Schedule of Funds
Offering Service Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Service Shares on the terms set forth in the Service Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

Multiple Class Company
Series
12b-1 Fee
   
Federated Hermes Adjustable Rate Securities Fund None
   
Federated Hermes Adviser Series  
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Value Fund None
   
   
Federated Hermes High Yield Trust None
   
Federated Hermes Government Income Fund 0.05%
   
Federated Hermes Income Securities Trust:  
Federated Hermes Intermediate Corporate Bond Fund 0.25%
Federated Hermes Short-Term Income Fund None
   
Federated Hermes Index Trust  
Federated Hermes Max-Cap Index Fund 0.30%
Federated Hermes Mid-Cap Index Fund None
   
Federated Hermes Institutional Trust:  
Federated Hermes Government Ultrashort Fund 0.05%
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Total Return Bond Fund 0.00%
   
Federated Hermes Insurance Series:  
Federated Hermes Managed Volatility Fund II 0.25%
Federated Hermes High Income Bond Fund II 0.25%
Federated Hermes Kaufmann Fund II 0.25%
Federated Hermes Quality Bond Fund II 0.25%
Federated Hermes Government Money Fund II None
   
Federated Short-Intermediate Municipal Fund None
   
Federated Hermes Total Return Government Bond Fund 0.25%
   
Federated Hermes Total Return Series, Inc.:  
Federated Hermes Total Return Bond Fund 0.25%
Federated Hermes Ultrashort Bond Fund None
   
Federated Hermes Intermediate Municipal Trust  
Federated Hermes Intermediate Municipal Fund None
   
Multiple Class Company
Series
12b-1 Fee
   
Federated Hermes Short-Term Government Fund 0.25%
   
Federated Hermes Short-Intermediate Government Fund 0.05%
   
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:  
Federated Hermes California Municipal Cash Trust None
Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund None
Federated Hermes Government Obligations Tax-Managed Fund None
Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management None
 Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund None
Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund None
Federated Hermes Municipal Obligations Fund None
Federated Hermes New York Municipal Cash Trust 0.25%
Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund None
Federated Hermes Tax-Free Obligations Fund None
Federated Hermes Treasury Obligations Fund None
Federated Hermes U.S. Treasury Cash Reserves 0.25%

 

 

 
 

Proprietary fund schedule -
service shares

 

Shares issued by investment companies that are not party to this Plan but that are listed on this Proprietary Fund Schedule ("Non-Plan Investment Companies") may be exchanged for Service Shares of the Funds indicated opposite their names. Such Service Shares may also be exchanged back into shares of the original Non-Plan Investment Company. In addition, indicated Service Shares purchased from a dealer party to a Dealer Agreement to sell the indicated Non-Plan Investment Company Shares may be exchanged for Shares of such Non-Plan Investment Company. In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges into any class of shares of a Non-Plan Investment Company not shown on this schedule shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

Multiple Class Series/Company Non-Plan Investment Companies
   

 

 

Class T Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised (12/1/20)

 

1.       SEPARATE ARRANGEMENT AND EXPENSE ALLOCATION

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement of the Class T Shares will consist of sales and shareholder servicing by financial intermediaries in consideration of the payment of the applicable sales load (“dealer reallowance”) and a shareholder service fee. In connection with this basic arrangement, Class T Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Class T Shares
Sales Load Up to 2.50% of the public offering price
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee None
Redemption Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class T Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       CONVERSION AND EXCHANGE PRIVILEGES

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class T Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable, and that no CDSC on the original shares purchased is owed.
Exchange Privilege: None  

 

3.       EXCEPTIONS TO BASIC ARRANGEMENTS

 

For purposes of Rules 22d-1 and 6c-10 under the Act, unless otherwise specified on the Schedule to this Exhibit, the scheduled variations in sales loads and contingent deferred sales charges are as follows:

 

(A)       BASIC SALES LOAD SCHEDULE

 

The basic schedule of sales loads for Class T Shares of Funds so designated on the Schedule to this Exhibit is as follows:

 

Transaction Amount

Sales Load as a Percentage of

Public Offering Price

Less than $250,000 2.50%
$250,000 but less than $500,000 2.00%
$500,000 but less than $1 million 1.50%
$1 million or greater 1.00%

 

4.       REDEMPTION FEE

 

For purposes of Rule 11a-3 under the Act, any redemption fee received upon the redemption or exchange of Class T Shares will be applied to fees incurred or amount expended in connection with such redemption or exchange. The balance of any redemption fees shall be paid to the Fund.

 

A Fund shall waive any redemption fee with respect to (i) non-participant directed redemptions or exchanges involving Class T Shares held in retirement plans established under Section 401(a) or 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), custodial plan accounts established under Section 493(b)(7) of the Code, or deferred compensation plans established under Section 457 of the Code; (ii) redemptions or exchanges involving Class T Shares held in plans administered as college savings programs under Section 529 of the Code; and (iii) Class T Shares redeemed due to the death of the last surviving shareholder on the account.

 
 

Schedule of Funds
Offering Class T Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class T Shares on the terms set forth in the Class T Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

1.       CLASS A SHARES SUBJECT TO THE BASIC LOAD SCHEDULE

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

Redemption

Fee

 

Class T Shares were discontinued on 11-30-20.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

 

 

trust Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(Revised 06/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution arrangement for the Trust Shares will consist of sales by financial intermediaries, who, along with the principal underwriter, may receive payments for distribution and/or administrative services under a 12b-1 Plan. In connection with this basic arrangement, Trust Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Trust Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee Up to 25 basis points (0.25%) of the average daily net asset value
12b-1 Fee As set forth in the attached Schedule
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Trust  Shares as described in Section 3 of the Multiple Class Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Trust Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege: Trust Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Hermes Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

 

Schedule of FundS

Offering Trust Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Trust Shares on the terms set forth in the Trust Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below. The 12b-1 fees indicated are the maximum amounts authorized based on the average daily net asset value. Actual amounts accrued may be less.

 

Multiple Class Company

Series

12b-1 Fee
   
Federated Hermes Money Market Obligations Trust:  
Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund 0.25%
Federated Hermes Prime Cash Obligations Fund 0.25%
Federated Hermes Treasury Obligations Fund 0.25%

 

 

 
 

 

 

Class Y Shares Exhibit

To

Multiple Class Plan

(rEVISED 06/29/20)

 

1.       Separate Arrangement And Expense Allocation

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3 under the Act, the basic distribution and shareholder servicing arrangement for the Class Y Shares will consist of sales to institutional purchasers requiring less distribution support activity and less shareholder services, who are also seeking low expense ratios. In connection with this basic arrangement, Class Y Shares will bear the following fees and expenses:

 

Fees and Expenses Maximum Amount Allocated Class Y Shares
Sales Load None
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge ("CDSC") None
Shareholder Service Fee None
12b-1 Fee None
Other Expenses Itemized expenses incurred by the Fund with respect to holders of Class Y Shares as described in Section 3 of the Plan

 

2.       Conversion and Exchange Privileges

 

For purposes of Rule 18f-3, Class Y Shares have the following conversion rights and exchange privileges at the election of the shareholder:

 

Conversion Rights: At the election of the shareholder, Shares may be converted into any other Share Class of the same Fund, provided that the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for the Share Class into which the conversion is sought, as applicable.
Exchange Privilege:

Class Y Shares may be exchanged into any Federated Hermes fund or share class that does not have a stated sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge, except Shares of Federated Institutional Money Market Management, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Obligations Fund, Federated Hermes Institutional Tax-Free Cash Trust, Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Class A Shares of Federated Hermes Government Reserves Fund and Class R Shares of any Fund, provided that the shareholder meets any shareholder eligibility and minimum initial investment requirements for the Shares to be purchased, (if applicable), both accounts have identical registrations, and the shareholder receives a prospectus for the fund in which the shareholder wishes to exchange.

 

In any exchange, the shareholder shall receive shares having the same aggregate net asset value as the shares surrendered. Exchanges to any other Class shall be treated in the same manner as a redemption and purchase.

 
 

Schedule of Funds

Offering class Y Shares

 

The Funds set forth on this Schedule each offer Class Y Shares on the terms set forth in the Class Y Shares Exhibit to the Multiple Class Plan, in each case as indicated below:

 

Multiple Class Company Series
   
Federated Hermes Short-Term Government Fund