N-CSR 1 mdtform.htm

United States

Securities and Exchange Commission

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

Form N-CSR

Certified Shareholder Report of Registered Management Investment Companies

 

 

 

 

811-21904

 

(Investment Company Act File Number)

 

Federated Hermes MDT Series

_______________________________________________________________

 

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)

 

 

 

Federated Hermes Funds

4000 Ericsson Drive

Warrendale, Pennsylvania 15086-7561

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

 

 

(412) 288-1900

(Registrant's Telephone Number)

 

 

Peter J. Germain, Esquire

1001 Liberty Avenue

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222-3779

(Name and Address of Agent for Service)

(Notices should be sent to the Agent for Service)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of Fiscal Year End: 07/31/20

 

 

Date of Reporting Period: 07/31/20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1.Reports to Stockholders

 

 

 

Annual Shareholder Report
July 31, 2020
Share Class | Ticker A | QAACX C | QCACX Institutional | QIACX R6 | QKACX

Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund
(formerly, Federated MDT All Cap Core Fund)
Fund Established 2002

A Portfolio of Federated Hermes MDT Series
(formerly, Federated MDT Series)
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING REPORT DELIVERY
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the Fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the Fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Fund or your financial intermediary electronically by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank); other shareholders may call the Fund at 1-800-341-7400, Option 4.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the Fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank); other shareholders may call the Fund at 1-800-341-7400, Option 4. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the Fund complex or your financial intermediary.

Not FDIC Insured ■ May Lose Value ■ No Bank Guarantee

J. Christopher
Donahue
President
Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund
Letter from the President
Dear Valued Shareholder,
I am pleased to present the Annual Shareholder Report for your fund covering the period from August 1, 2019 through July 31, 2020.
As we all confront the unprecedented effects of the coronavirus and the challenges it presents to our families, communities, businesses and the financial markets, I want you to know that everyone at Federated Hermes is dedicated to helping you successfully navigate the markets ahead. You can count on us for the insights, investment management knowledge and client service that you have come to expect. Please refer to our website, FederatedInvestors.com, for timely updates on this and other economic and market matters.
Thank you for investing with us. I hope you find this information useful and look forward to keeping you informed.
Sincerely,
J. Christopher Donahue, President
         


Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (unaudited)
The total return of Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund (the “Fund”), based on net asset value, for the 12-month reporting period ended July 31, 2020, was 9.66% for Class A Shares, 8.86% for Class C Shares, 10.01% for Institutional Shares and 10.00% for Class R6 Shares. The total return for the Russell 3000® Index (R3000),1 the Fund’s broad-based securities market index, was 10.93% for the same period. The total return of the Morningstar Large Blend Funds Average (MLBFA),2 a peer group average for the Fund, was 7.60% during the same period. The Fund’s and MLBFA’s total returns for the most recently completed fiscal year reflected actual cash flows, transaction costs and other expenses, which were not reflected in the total return of the R3000.
During the reporting period, the Fund’s investment strategy focused on stock selection. Stock selection was the most significant factor affecting the Fund’s performance relative to the R3000 during the period.
The following discussion will focus on the performance of the Fund’s Institutional Shares relative to the R3000.
Market Overview
The twelve months of this reporting period, culminating with the COVID-19 pandemic, saw huge volatility in the domestic market. Despite the dramatic decline and recovery in the first half of 2020, the whole market R3000 was up 10.93% for the full period. However, looking more deeply at the sub-indexes revealed the wildness of the market. Large caps dominated small caps:3 the mega-cap Russell Top 200® Index4 returned 15.84%, while the Russell Midcap® Index5 returned 2.04% and the small-cap Russell 2000® Index6 returned -4.59%. In addition, once again, growth dominated value: the Russell 3000® Growth Index7 returned 28.24% while the Russell 3000® Value Index8 returned -6.67%. The largest spread between growth and value in one capitalization range this year was almost 38 percentage points: the mega-cap Russell Top 200® Growth Index9 returned 33.06% while the Russell Top 200® Value10 Index returned -4.80%.
The best performing sectors in the R3000 during the reporting period were Information Technology (37.07%), Consumer Discretionary (24.82%) and Health Care (20.14%). Underperforming sectors during the same period included Energy (-38.98%), Financials (-14.72%), Industrials (-5.82%) and Real Estate (-5.02%).
STOCK SELECTION
When looking at the Fund’s underperformance in terms of fundamental and technical characteristics during this growth-oriented period, most of the Fund’s underperformance relative to the R3000 was driven by growth-oriented stocks with neutral-to-high analyst conviction and weaker value characteristics. Good
Annual Shareholder Report
1

stock selection among stocks with high volatility, negative analyst conviction and depressed prices provided substantial favorable offsets. The Fund’s sector exposures continued to remain close to R3000 weights; there were no significant overweights or underweights at the end of the fiscal year. Weak stock selection in the Health Care and Consumer Discretionary sectors contributed the most to the Fund’s underperformance versus the benchmark. The largest favorable offsets were provided by strong stock selection in the Industrials and Energy sectors.
Individual stocks enhancing the Fund’s performance during the reporting period included DocuSign, Inc., Cadence Design Systems, Inc. and DXC Technology Co.
Individual stocks detracting from the Fund’s performance during the reporting period included Apple Inc., HCA Healthcare Inc. and Microsoft Corporation. Apple and Microsoft outperformed the R3000 but were underweighted by the Fund, and HCA Healthcare underperformed the R3000 and was overweighted by the Fund.
1 Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the Russell 3000® Index.
2 Morningstar has assigned the Fund to the Morningstar Large Cap Value Funds Average peer group, however, the MLBFA is being used for comparison purposes. The Fund invests in both value and growth stocks and therefore the Fund’s Adviser believes that the MLBFA is more reflective of the Fund’s investment style. Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the MLBFA.
3 Small-cap stocks may be less liquid and subject to greater price volatility than large-cap stocks.
4 The Russell Top 200® Index measures the performance of the largest cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell Top 200® Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index. It includes approximately 200 of the largest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership and represents approximately 68% of the U.S. market. The Russell Top 200® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for this very large cap segment and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected.*
5 The Russell Midcap® Index measures the performance of the mid-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell Midcap® Index is a subset of the Russell 1000® Index. It includes approximately 800 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The Russell Midcap® Index represents approximately 31% of the total market capitalization of the Russell 1000® companies. The Russell Midcap® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for the mid-cap segment. The Russell Midcap Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true mid-cap opportunity set.*
6 The Russell 2000® Index measures the performance of the small-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell 2000® Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index representing approximately 10% of the total market capitalization of that index. It includes approximately 2000 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The Russell 2000® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased small-cap barometer and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true small-cap opportunity set.*
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7 The Russell 3000® Growth Index measures the performance of the broad growth segment of the U.S. equity universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. The Russell 3000® Growth Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad growth market. The Russell 3000® Growth Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect growth characteristics.*
8 The Russell 3000® Value Index measures the performance of the broad value segment of U.S. equity value universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. The Russell 3000® Value Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad value market. The Russell 3000® Value Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect value characteristics.*
9 The Russell Top 200® Growth Index measures the performance of the especially large cap segment of the U.S. equity universe represented by stocks in the largest 200 by market cap. It includes Russell Top 200® Index companies with higher growth earning potential as defined by Russell’s leading style methodology.*
10 The Russell Top 200® Value Index measures the performance of the especially large cap segment of the U.S. equity universe represented by stocks in the largest 200 by market cap. It includes Russell Top 200® Index companies with value characteristics as defined by Russell’s leading style methodology.*
* The index is unmanaged, and it is not possible to invest directly in an index.
Annual Shareholder Report
3

FUND PERFORMANCE AND GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT
The graph below illustrates the hypothetical investment of $10,0001 in the Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund (the “Fund”) from July 31, 2010 to July 31, 2020, compared to the Russell 3000® Index (R3000)2 and the Morningstar Large Blend Funds Average (MLBFA).3 The Average Annual Total Return table below shows returns for each class averaged over the stated periods.
Growth of a $10,000 Investment
Growth of $10,000 as of July 31, 2020
■  Total returns shown for the Class C Shares include the maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% as applicable.
    
The Fund offers multiple share classes whose performance may be greater than or less than its other share class(es) due to differences in sales charges and expenses. See the Average Annual Total Return table below for the returns of additional classes not shown in the line graph above.
Average Annual Total Returns for the Period Ended 7/31/2020
(returns reflect all applicable sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges as specified below in footnote #1)
  1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
Class A Shares 3.63% 9.15% 12.67%
Class C Shares 7.86% 9.56% 12.43%
Institutional Shares 10.01% 10.72% 13.62%
Class R6 Shares4 10.00% 10.54% 13.11%
R3000 10.93% 10.89% 13.59%
MLBFA 7.60% 9.09% 12.04%
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Performance data quoted represents past performance which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Mutual fund performance changes over time and current performance may be lower or higher than what is stated. For current to the most recent month-end performance and after-tax returns, visit FederatedInvestors.com or call 1-800-341-7400. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Mutual funds are not obligations of or guaranteed by any bank and are not federally insured.
1 Represents a hypothetical investment of $10,000 in the Fund after deducting applicable sales charges: for Class A Shares, the maximum sales charge of 5.50% ($10,000 investment minus $550 sales charge = $9,450); for Class C Shares a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge would be applied on any redemption less than one year from the purchase date. The Fund’s performance assumes the reinvestment of all dividends and distributions. The R3000 and MLBFA have been adjusted to reflect reinvestment of dividends of securities.
2 The R3000 measures the performance of the largest 3,000 U.S. companies representing approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equity market. The R3000 is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased, and stable barometer of the broad market and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected. The index is unmanaged and, unlike the Fund, is not affected by cash flows. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. The R3000 is not adjusted to reflect sales charges, expenses or other fees that the Securities and Exchange Commission requires to be reflected in the Fund’s performance.
3 Morningstar figures represent the average of the total returns reported by all the funds designated by Morningstar as falling into the respective category indicated. They do not reflect sales charges. The Morningstar figures in the Growth of $10,000 line graph are based on historical return information published by Morningstar and reflect the return of the funds comprising the category in the year of publication. Because the funds designated by Morningstar as falling into the category can change over time, the Morningstar figures in the line graph may not match the Morningstar figures in the Average Annual Total Returns table, which reflect the return of the funds that currently comprise the category.
4 Prior to September 1, 2016, Class R6 Shares were known as Class R Shares and included 12b-1 fees and certain other expenses. As of September 1, 2016, Class R6 does not include such 12b-1 fees and certain other expenses, and the performance shown above for Class R6 prior to September 1, 2016, reflects the higher Class R expenses.
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Portfolio of Investments Summary Table (unaudited)
At July 31, 2020, the Fund’s index composition1 was as follows:
Sector Composition Percentage of
Total Net Assets
Information Technology 27.2%
Health Care 14.7%
Consumer Discretionary 11.9%
Financials 11.1%
Communication Services 8.9%
Industrials 8.1%
Consumer Staples 7.3%
Real Estate 3.1%
Materials 2.2%
Energy 2.0%
Utilities 1.9%
Securities Lending Collateral2 2.0%
Cash Equivalents3 1.6%
Other Assets and Liabilities—Net4 (2.0)%
TOTAL 100.0%
1 Except for Cash Equivalents and Other Assets and Liabilities, sector classifications are based upon, and individual portfolio securities are assigned to, the classifications of the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) except that the Adviser assigns a classification to securities not classified by the GICS and to securities for which the Adviser does not have access to the classification made by the GICS.
2 Represents cash collateral received for portfolio securities on loan that may be invested in affiliated money market funds, other money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements.
3 Cash Equivalents include any investments in money market mutual funds and/or overnight repurchase agreements other than those representing cash collateral for securities lending.
4 Assets, other than investments in securities, less liabilities. See Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
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Portfolio of Investments
July 31, 2020
Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—98.4%  
    Communication Services—8.9%  
6,736   Activision Blizzard, Inc. $556,596
9,446 1 Alphabet, Inc., Class A 14,055,176
1,681   Cable One, Inc. 3,063,723
65,486 1 Cars.com, Inc. 531,746
1,575 1 Charter Communications, Inc. 913,500
45,632   Cogent Communications Holdings, Inc. 4,111,900
4,832 1 Facebook, Inc. 1,225,733
43,653 1 MSG Networks, Inc. 416,013
8,771   Meredith Corp. 125,952
7,046 1 Netflix, Inc. 3,444,648
88,452 1 TripAdvisor, Inc. 1,789,384
31,860   Verizon Communications, Inc. 1,831,313
    TOTAL 32,065,684
    Consumer Discretionary—11.9%  
3,295 1 Amazon.com, Inc. 10,427,621
1,207 1 AutoZone, Inc. 1,457,356
23,311 1 Cooper-Standard Holding, Inc. 249,661
3,294   Dollar General Corp. 627,178
18,524   Domino’s Pizza, Inc. 7,161,564
49,006   eBay, Inc. 2,709,052
8,335 1 Etsy, Inc. 986,697
35,900   Ford Motor Co. 237,299
11,350   Garmin Ltd. 1,118,996
53,197   Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. 479,305
11,512   Home Depot, Inc. 3,056,321
2,328 1 iRobot Corp. 169,222
21,003   Lowe’s Cos., Inc. 3,127,557
1,349 1 Lululemon Athletica Inc. 439,221
279,331 2 Macy’s, Inc. 1,692,746
2,166   McDonald’s Corp. 420,810
11,173 1 Mohawk Industries, Inc. 892,164
839 1 O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. 400,522
13,302   PVH Corp. 647,275
4,868 1 Ulta Beauty, Inc. 939,475
6,428 1,2 Wayfair, Inc. 1,710,426
Annual Shareholder Report
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Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Consumer Discretionary—continued  
23,237   Wingstop, Inc. $3,630,781
7,652   Yum! Brands, Inc. 696,715
    TOTAL 43,277,964
    Consumer Staples—7.3%  
39,144 1 BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. 1,567,717
10,550   Church and Dwight, Inc. 1,016,282
18,027   Clorox Co. 4,263,566
90,965   Colgate-Palmolive Co. 7,022,498
8,897   Costco Wholesale Corp. 2,896,240
4,201   Hershey Foods Corp. 610,867
41,919   Kimberly-Clark Corp. 6,373,365
12,071   Molson Coors Beverage Company, Class B 452,904
8,885   PepsiCo, Inc. 1,223,109
7,872   Philip Morris International, Inc. 604,648
2,887   Procter & Gamble Co. 378,544
7,963 1 Sprouts Farmers Market, Inc. 210,064
    TOTAL 26,619,804
    Energy—2.0%  
18,060   Arch Resources, Inc. 560,221
13,529   CVR Energy, Inc. 259,757
17,923   Cimarex Energy Co. 438,396
29,353   Concho Resources, Inc. 1,542,207
34,012 2 Continental Resources, Inc. 588,067
75,701   Devon Energy Corp. 794,103
6,580   EOG Resources, Inc. 308,273
22,259   Helmerich & Payne, Inc. 396,878
63,055   Marathon Oil Corp. 346,172
54,577   PBF Energy, Inc. 473,728
77,330   Peabody Energy Corp. 241,270
16,289   Phillips 66 1,010,244
4,307   Valero Energy Corp. 242,183
    TOTAL 7,201,499
    Financials—11.1%  
26,190   Aflac, Inc. 931,578
1,846   Alleghany Corp. 964,203
51,160   Allstate Corp. 4,828,993
3,358   Ameriprise Financial, Inc. 515,890
3,925   Bank of New York Mellon Corp. 140,711
Annual Shareholder Report
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Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Financials—continued  
2,734   BlackRock, Inc. $1,572,077
5,374   Chubb Ltd. 683,788
50,325   Cincinnati Financial Corp. 3,921,827
10,919   Globe Life, Inc. 869,152
18,837   Huntington Bancshares, Inc. 174,619
39,755   Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. 3,847,489
12,533   MSCI, Inc., Class A 4,712,157
3,517   Marketaxess Holdings, Inc. 1,817,234
35,165   MetLife, Inc. 1,330,995
12,553   NASDAQ, Inc. 1,648,335
17,833   Northern Trust Corp. 1,397,216
36,514   Prudential Financial, Inc. 2,313,892
5,557   State Street Corp. 354,481
60,065   The Travelers Cos., Inc. 6,872,637
41,094   Zions Bancorporation, N.A. 1,334,322
    TOTAL 40,231,596
    Health Care—14.7%  
5,393   Abbott Laboratories 542,751
15,510 1 Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1,589,620
13,220 1 Allogene Therapeutics, Inc. 484,777
21,475   Amgen, Inc. 5,254,288
42,294 1 AnaptysBio, Inc. 759,600
3,511   Anthem, Inc. 961,312
10,896 1 Arvinas, Inc. 343,224
13,746 1 Biogen, Inc. 3,775,889
5,794 1 Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Co. Ltd. 371,048
4,875   CIGNA Corp. 841,864
15,619   CVS Health Corp. 983,060
12,175 1 Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 327,386
761   Cooper Cos., Inc. 215,310
11,942 1 Davita, Inc. 1,043,611
12,300   Dentsply Sirona, Inc. 548,580
24,860   Eli Lilly & Co. 3,736,209
6,572   Gilead Sciences, Inc. 456,951
27,024 1 Hologic, Inc. 1,885,735
6,863   Humana, Inc. 2,693,384
5,623 1 IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. 2,236,548
10,787 1 Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC. 1,167,693
Annual Shareholder Report
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Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Health Care—continued  
21,860   Johnson & Johnson $3,186,314
5,111 1 Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals Ltd. 99,767
17,448 1,2 Livongo Health, Inc. 2,220,258
40,449   Merck & Co., Inc. 3,245,628
1,140 1 Molina Healthcare, Inc. 210,558
37,635 1 Myriad Genetics, Inc. 454,254
10,820 1 NextCure, Inc. 96,514
16,307 1 SAGE Therapeutics, Inc. 743,110
6,497 1 United Therapeutics Corp. 724,221
528   UnitedHealth Group, Inc. 159,868
15,141 1 Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 4,118,352
17,111 1 Waters Corp. 3,647,210
26,259   Zoetis, Inc. 3,982,965
    TOTAL 53,107,859
    Industrials—8.1%  
12,481   AGCO Corp. 819,128
18,699 1 Astronics Corp. 162,681
2,914   Brinks Co. (The) 129,236
28,412 1 CIRCOR International, Inc. 744,963
8,310   Curtiss Wright Corp. 740,587
14,768   Flowserve Corp. 411,584
63,132   Fluor Corp. 643,315
16,850   Hexcel Corp. 628,505
6,124   Hubbell, Inc. 826,556
9,617   Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. 1,670,569
418,872   KAR Auction Services, Inc. 6,337,533
7,589   Lockheed Martin Corp. 2,876,003
6,024   Masco Corp. 344,332
16,823   Republic Services, Inc. 1,467,807
11,956   SPX Corp. 502,152
179,048   Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc., Class A 3,503,969
4,755   Textron, Inc. 166,140
3,166   TransUnion 283,579
29,251   Verisk Analytics, Inc. 5,519,956
1,937   W.W. Grainger, Inc. 661,544
12,821   Xylem, Inc. 935,677
    TOTAL 29,375,816
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Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Information Technology—27.2%  
11,820 1 Adobe, Inc. $5,251,862
12,822   Alliance Data Systems Corp. 568,784
8,643   Analog Devices, Inc. 992,649
23,374   Apple, Inc. 9,934,885
29,417   Applied Materials, Inc. 1,892,396
964 1 Arista Networks, Inc. 250,418
8,473 1 Autodesk, Inc. 2,003,271
5,427   Automatic Data Processing, Inc. 721,303
26,936   Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp. 2,202,287
8,092   Broadcom, Inc. 2,563,141
76,462 1 Cadence Design Systems, Inc. 8,353,474
24,778 1 Cirrus Logic, Inc. 1,698,036
1,177   Citrix Systems, Inc. 168,029
5,464   Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp. 373,300
12,774 1 Crowdstrike Holdings, Inc. 1,446,017
404,865   DXC Technology Co. 7,251,132
37,545 1 DocuSign, Inc. 8,140,882
35,888 1 Dynatrace Holdings LLC 1,501,195
3,537 1 FleetCor Technologies Inc. 914,562
6,311 1 Fortinet Inc. 872,811
2,558   Henry Jack & Associates, Inc. 456,091
35,311 1 Inphi Corp. 4,613,735
46,303   Intel Corp. 2,210,042
3,181   Intuit, Inc. 974,563
17,400 1 Keysight Technologies, Inc. 1,738,086
4,878   Leidos Holdings, Inc. 464,191
5,562   Mastercard, Inc. 1,716,044
45,610   Microsoft Corp. 9,350,506
7,153   NVIDIA Corp. 3,037,092
1,460 1 Okta, Inc. 322,631
10,749   Oracle Corp. 596,032
26,993   Paychex, Inc. 1,941,337
18,981 1 PayPal Holdings, Inc. 3,721,605
49,135   Plantronics, Inc. 982,209
47,231   Qualcomm, Inc. 4,988,066
104,452   Sabre Corp. 789,657
2,826 1 Semtech Corp. 157,493
9,888 1 Synopsys, Inc. 1,969,887
Annual Shareholder Report
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Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Information Technology—continued  
30,450   Xerox Holdings Corp. $506,993
1,428   Xilinx, Inc. 153,296
468 1 Zoom Video Communications, Inc. 118,830
4,484 1 Zscaler, Inc. 582,247
    TOTAL 98,491,067
    Materials—2.2%  
83,199 1 Alcoa Corp. 1,081,587
52,754 1 Allegheny Technologies, Inc. 458,432
5,404 1 Berry Global Group, Inc. 270,146
149,740   Chemours Co./The 2,774,682
44,257   Domtar, Corp. 928,954
2,213   Eastman Chemical Co. 165,156
5,939 1 Ingevity Corp. 347,313
2,939   Linde PLC 720,378
1,214   Martin Marietta Materials 251,517
8,212   PPG Industries, Inc. 884,022
    TOTAL 7,882,187
    Real Estate—3.1%  
6,129   American Tower Corp. 1,602,060
8,174   Coresite Realty Corp. 1,054,855
2,094   Crown Castle International Corp. 349,070
1,975   Equity Residential Properties Trust 105,919
170,221 2 Macerich Co. (The) 1,298,786
17,806   SBA Communications, Corp. 5,547,281
27,290   SL Green Realty Corp. 1,268,985
    TOTAL 11,226,956
    Utilities—1.9%  
13,357   Consolidated Edison Co. 1,026,218
47,068   Exelon Corp. 1,817,296
11,434   NiSource, Inc. 279,561
44,479   OGE Energy Corp. 1,463,359
2,553   Pinnacle West Capital Corp. 212,103
21,917   Public Service Enterprises Group, Inc. 1,226,037
53,804   Vistra Corp. 1,003,983
    TOTAL 7,028,557
    TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(IDENTIFIED COST $304,208,026)
356,508,989
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Shares     Value
    INVESTMENT COMPANIES—3.6%  
7,296,777   Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund, Premier Shares, 0.10%3 $7,296,777
5,676,078   Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Institutional Shares, 0.21%3 5,679,483
    TOTAL INVESTMENT COMPANIES
(IDENTIFIED COST $12,976,781)
12,976,260
    TOTAL INVESTMENT IN SECURITIES—102.0%
(IDENTIFIED COST $317,184,807)4
369,485,249
    OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES - NET—(2.0)%5 (7,092,899)
    TOTAL NET ASSETS—100% $362,392,350
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14

An affiliated company is a company in which the Fund, alone or in combination with other funds, has ownership of at least 5% of the voting shares. Transactions with affiliated companies during the period ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
  Balance of
Shares
Held
7/31/2019
Purchases/
Additions*
Sales/
Reductions*
Consumer Discretionary:      
Wingstop, Inc. 23,237
Health Care:      
AnaptysBio, Inc. 42,294
Affiliated Issuers no longer in the portfolio at period end 2,706 (2,706)
TOTAL OF AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS 68,237 (2,706)
Annual Shareholder Report
15

Balance of
Shares
Held
7/31/2020
Value Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation/
Depreciation
Net
Realized
Gain/(Loss)*
Dividend
Income*
         
23,237 $3,630,781 $786,286 $$2,285
         
42,294 $759,600 $(35,545) $$
$$$12,433 $
65,531 $4,390,381 $750,741 $12,433 $2,285
* A portion of the amount shown was recorded when the Fund no longer had ownership of at least 5% of the voting shares.
Affiliated fund holdings are investment companies which are managed by the Adviser or an affiliate of the Adviser. Transactions with affiliated fund holdings during the period ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
  Federated Hermes
Government
Obligations Fund,
Premier Shares*
Federated Hermes
Institutional
Prime Value
Obligations Fund,
Institutional Shares
Total of
Affiliated
Transactions
Balance of Shares Held 7/31/2019 491,528 7,701,438 8,192,966
Purchases/Additions 65,245,765 115,156,178 180,401,943
Sales/Reductions (58,440,516) (117,181,538) (175,622,054)
Balance of Shares Held 7/31/2020 7,296,777 5,676,078 12,972,855
Value $7,296,777 $5,679,483 $12,976,260
Change in Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation N/A $(521) $(521)
Net Realized Gain/(Loss) N/A $2,184 $2,184
Dividend Income $23,627 $63,183 $86,810
* All or a portion of the balance/activity for the fund relates to cash collateral received on securities lending transactions.
1 Non-income-producing security.
2 All or a portion of these securities are temporarily on loan to unaffiliated broker/dealers.
3 7-day net yield.
4 The cost of investments for federal tax purposes amounts to $317,751,065.
5 Assets, other than investments in securities, less liabilities. See Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
Note: The categories of investments are shown as a percentage of total net assets at July 31, 2020.
Annual Shareholder Report
16

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
Level 1—quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2—other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). Also includes securities valued at amortized cost.
Level 3—significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
As of July 31, 2020, all investments of the Fund utilized Level 1 inputs in valuing the Fund’s assets carried at fair value.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
17

Financial HighlightsClass A Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $29.90 $30.01 $24.95 $21.77 $22.10
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income 0.131 0.161 0.091 0.26 0.191
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 2.69 1.81 5.08 3.11 (0.33)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 2.82 1.97 5.17 3.37 (0.14)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.11) (0.07) (0.11) (0.19) (0.19)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.84) (2.01)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (0.95) (2.08) (0.11) (0.19) (0.19)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $31.77 $29.90 $30.01 $24.95 $21.77
Total Return2 9.66% 7.80% 20.78% 15.56% (0.61)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.04% 1.08% 1.36% 1.38% 1.35%
Net investment income 0.44% 0.57% 0.31% 0.69% 0.94%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.20% 0.24% 0.00%5 0.00%5 0.03%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $79,301 $69,221 $40,539 $33,799 $33,753
Portfolio turnover 160% 87% 82% 77% 62%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 Represents less than 0.01%.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
18

Financial HighlightsClass C Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $27.99 $28.37 $23.66 $20.66 $21.00
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss) (0.08)1 (0.05)1 (0.11)1 (0.19) 0.031
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 2.50 1.68 4.82 3.23 (0.33)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 2.42 1.63 4.71 3.04 (0.30)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.04) (0.04)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.84) (2.01)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (0.84) (2.01) (0.04) (0.04)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $29.57 $27.99 $28.37 $23.66 $20.66
Total Return2 8.86% 6.96% 19.91% 14.72% (1.43)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.79% 1.85% 2.09% 2.13% 2.14%
Net investment income (loss) (0.31)% (0.20)% (0.41)% (0.06)% 0.15%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.21% 0.24% 0.00%5 0.00%5 0.00%5
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $31,030 $32,178 $39,625 $36,440 $36,846
Portfolio turnover 160% 87% 82% 77% 62%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 Represents less than 0.01%.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
19

Financial HighlightsInstitutional Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $30.29 $30.37 $25.24 $22.02 $22.37
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income 0.221 0.251 0.161 0.39 0.251
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 2.74 1.81 5.16 3.09 (0.34)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 2.96 2.06 5.32 3.48 (0.09)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.19) (0.13) (0.19) (0.26) (0.26)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.84) (2.01)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (1.03) (2.14) (0.19) (0.26) (0.26)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $32.22 $30.29 $30.37 $25.24 $22.02
Total Return2 10.01% 8.08% 21.15% 15.90% (0.34)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 0.74% 0.78% 1.07% 1.08% 1.07%
Net investment income 0.73% 0.87% 0.57% 1.01% 1.22%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.25% 0.29% 0.00%5 0.00%5 0.00%5
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $243,490 $215,799 $95,290 $52,169 $65,435
Portfolio turnover 160% 87% 82% 77% 62%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 Represents less than 0.01%.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
20

Financial HighlightsClass R6 Shares1
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $29.75 $29.89 $24.85 $21.46 $21.80
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income 0.212 0.232 0.182 0.21 0.102
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 2.69 1.79 5.06 3.18 (0.33)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 2.90 2.02 5.24 3.39 (0.23)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.19) (0.15) (0.20) (0.11)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.84) (2.01)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (1.03) (2.16) (0.20) (0.11)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $31.62 $29.75 $29.89 $24.85 $21.46
Total Return3 10.00% 8.08% 21.17% 15.80% (1.05)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses4 0.73% 0.81% 1.02% 1.07% 1.80%
Net investment income 0.75% 0.78% 0.65% 0.95% 0.49%
Expense waiver/reimbursement5 0.17% 0.18% 0.00%6 0.00%6 0.00%6
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $8,571 $9,183 $20,425 $17,363 $5,717
Portfolio turnover 160% 87% 82% 77% 62%
1 Prior to September 1, 2016, the Fund’s Class R6 Shares were designated as Class R Shares.
2 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
3 Based on net asset value.
4 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
6 Represents less than 0.01%.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
21

Statement of Assets and Liabilities
July 31, 2020
Assets:    
Investment in securities, at value including $7,071,666 of securities loaned and $12,976,260 of investment in affiliated holdings* (identified cost $317,184,807)   $369,485,249
Income receivable   148,595
Income receivable from affiliated holdings*   1,223
Receivable for investments sold   745,012
Receivable for shares sold   501,589
TOTAL ASSETS   370,881,668
Liabilities:    
Payable for investments purchased $426,963  
Payable for shares redeemed 544,952  
Payable for collateral due to broker for securities lending 7,296,777  
Payable for investment adviser fee (Note 5) 5,258  
Payable for administrative fees (Note 5) 768  
Payable for distribution services fee (Note 5) 19,634  
Payable for other service fees (Notes 2 and 5) 26,394  
Accrued expenses (Note 5) 168,572  
TOTAL LIABILITIES   8,489,318
Net assets for 11,373,676 shares outstanding   $362,392,350
Net Assets Consist of:    
Paid-in capital   $310,413,862
Total distributable earnings (loss)   51,978,488
TOTAL NET ASSETS   $362,392,350
Annual Shareholder Report
22

Statement of Assets and Liabilitiescontinued
Net Asset Value, Offering Price and Redemption Proceeds Per Share    
Class A Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($79,300,807 ÷ 2,496,434 shares
outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized
  $31.77
Offering price per share (100/94.50 of $31.77)   $33.62
Redemption proceeds per share   $31.77
Class C Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($31,030,373 ÷ 1,049,329 shares
outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized
  $29.57
Offering price per share   $29.57
Redemption proceeds per share (99.00/100 of $29.57)   $29.27
Institutional Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($243,489,953 ÷ 7,556,849 shares
outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized
  $32.22
Offering price per share   $32.22
Redemption proceeds per share   $32.22
Class R6 Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($8,571,217 ÷ 271,064 shares
outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized
  $31.62
Offering price per share   $31.62
Redemption proceeds per share   $31.62
* See information listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
23

Statement of Operations
Year Ended July 31, 2020
Investment Income:      
Dividends (including $63,183 received from an affiliated holding* and net of foreign taxes withheld of $3,131)     $4,762,832
Net income on securities loaned (includes $23,627 earned from an affiliated holding* related to cash collateral balances*) (Note 2)     76,235
TOTAL INCOME     4,839,067
Expenses:      
Investment adviser fee (Note 5)   $2,288,899  
Administrative fee (Note 5)   258,696  
Custodian fees   45,060  
Transfer agent fee (Note 2)   347,224  
Directors’/Trustees’ fees (Note 5)   3,142  
Auditing fees   27,701  
Legal fees   7,722  
Portfolio accounting fees   116,894  
Distribution services fee (Note 5)   232,902  
Other service fees (Notes 2 and 5)   261,052  
Share registration costs   87,026  
Printing and postage   38,832  
Miscellaneous (Note 5)   30,546  
TOTAL EXPENSES   3,745,696  
Waiver and Reimbursements:      
Waiver/reimbursement of investment adviser fee (Note 5) $(564,352)    
Reimbursement of other operating expenses (Notes 2 and 5) (200,652)    
TOTAL REIMBURSEMENTS   (765,004)  
Net expenses     2,980,692
Net investment income     1,858,375
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments:      
Net realized gain on investments (including net realized gain of $2,184 on sales of investments in an affiliated holding*)     3,253,617
Net change in unrealized appreciation of investments (including net change in unrealized depreciation of $(521) on investments in an affiliated holding*)     24,231,474
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments     27,485,091
Change in net assets resulting from operations     $29,343,466
* See information listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
24

Statement of Changes in Net Assets
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets    
Operations:    
Net investment income $1,858,375 $1,799,509
Net realized gain 3,253,617 12,196,355
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation 24,231,474 7,975,426
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS 29,343,466 21,971,290
Distributions to Shareholders:    
Class A Shares (2,420,345) (3,882,027)
Class C Shares (981,926) (1,891,738)
Institutional Shares (7,530,512) (12,178,410)
Class R6 Shares (293,094) (604,361)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (11,225,877) (18,556,536)
Share Transactions:    
Proceeds from sale of shares 138,101,946 256,926,172
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from PNC Multi-Factor All Cap Fund 4,799,602
Net asset value of shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 10,177,441 17,409,881
Cost of shares redeemed (135,185,593) (147,248,399)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM SHARE TRANSACTIONS 17,893,396 127,087,654
Change in net assets 36,010,985 130,502,408
Net Assets:    
Beginning of period 326,381,365 195,878,957
End of period $362,392,350 $326,381,365
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
25

Notes to Financial Statements
July 31, 2020
1. ORGANIZATION
Federated Hermes MDT Series (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust consists of five portfolios. The financial statements included herein are only those of Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund (the “Fund”), a diversified portfolio. The financial statements of the other portfolios are presented separately. The assets of each portfolio are segregated and a shareholder’s interest is limited to the portfolio in which shares are held. Each portfolio pays its own expenses. The Fund offers four classes of shares: Class A Shares, Class C Shares, Institutional Shares and Class R6 Shares. All shares of the Fund have equal rights with respect to voting, except on class-specific matters. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term capital appreciation.
On March 30, 2017, the Fund’s T Share class became effective with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), but is not yet offered for sale.
On November 15, 2019, the Fund acquired all of the net assets of PNC Multi-Factor All Cap Fund (the “Acquired Fund”), an open-end investment company, in a tax-free reorganization in exchange for shares of the Fund pursuant to a plan of reorganization approved by the Acquired Fund’s shareholders on November 5, 2019. The purpose of the transaction was to combine two portfolios with comparable investment objectives and strategies. For financial reporting purposes, the assets received and the shares issued by the Fund were recorded at fair value; however, the cost basis of the investments received from the Acquired Fund was carried forward to align ongoing reporting of the Fund’s realized gains and losses with amounts distributable to shareholders for tax purposes.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class A Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 0.707 shares of the Fund’s Class A Shares.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class C Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 0.692 shares of the Fund’s Class C Shares.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class I Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 0.714 shares of the Fund’s Institutional Shares.
The Fund received net assets from the Acquired Fund as the result of the tax-free reorganization as follows:
Shares of the
Fund Issued
Acquired Fund’s
Net Assets
Received
Unrealized
Depreciation1
Net Assets
of the Fund
Immediately
Prior to
Combination
Net Assets
of the Fund
Immediately
After
Combination
158,091 $4,799,602 $481,958 $334,525,804 $339,325,406
1 Unrealized Depreciation is included in the Net Assets Received amount shown above.
Annual Shareholder Report
26

Assuming the acquisition had been completed on August 1, 2019, the beginning of the annual reporting period of the Fund, the Fund’s pro forma results of operations for the year ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Net investment income $1,879,088
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments $27,688,497
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations $29,567,585
Because the combined investment portfolios have been managed as a single integrated portfolio since the acquisition was completed, it is not practicable to separate the amounts of revenue and earnings of the Acquired Fund that have been included in the Fund’s Statement of Operations and Statement of Changes in Net Assets as of July 31, 2020.
Prior to June 29, 2020, the name of the Trust and Fund were Federated MDT Series and Federated MDT All Cap Core Fund, respectively.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements. These policies are in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
Investment Valuation
In calculating its net asset value (NAV), the Fund generally values investments as follows:
■  Equity securities listed on an exchange or traded through a regulated market system are valued at their last reported sale price or official closing price in their principal exchange or market.
■  Shares of other mutual funds or non-exchange-traded investment companies are valued based upon their reported NAVs.
■  Fixed-income securities are fair valued using price evaluations provided by a pricing service approved by the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the “Trustees”).
■  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 Trustees.
■  For securities that are fair valued in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Trustees, certain factors may be considered, such as: the last traded or purchase price of the security, information obtained by contacting the issuer or dealers, analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents, fundamental analytical data, the nature and duration of restrictions on disposition, the movement of the market in which the security is normally traded, public trading in similar securities or derivative contracts of the issuer or comparable issuers, movement of a relevant index, or other factors including but not limited to industry changes and relevant government actions.
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 (“Valuation Committee”), is deemed not representative of the fair value of such security, the Fund
Annual Shareholder Report
27

uses the fair value of the investment determined in accordance with the procedures 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, and the actual value obtained could be materially different.
Fair Valuation Procedures
The Trustees have ultimate responsibility for determining the fair value of investments for which market quotations are not readily available. The Trustees have appointed a Valuation Committee comprised of officers of the Fund, Federated MDTA LLC (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 Trustees have 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. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for reviewing third-party pricing-service evaluations including periodic reviews of third-party pricing services’ policies, procedures and valuation methods (including key inputs, methods, models and assumptions), transactional back-testing, comparisons of evaluations of different pricing services, and review of price challenges by the Adviser based on recent market activity. 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 Trustees. The Trustees periodically review and approve the fair valuations made by the Valuation Committee and any changes made to the procedures.
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. 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. In the event that market quotations and price evaluations are not available for an investment, the fair value of the investment is determined in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trustees.
Repurchase Agreements
The Fund may invest in repurchase agreements for short-term liquidity purposes. It is the policy of the Fund to require the other party to a repurchase agreement to transfer to the Fund’s custodian or sub-custodian eligible securities or cash with a market value (after transaction costs) at least equal to the repurchase price to be paid under the repurchase agreement. The eligible securities are transferred to accounts with the custodian or sub-custodian in which the Fund holds a “securities entitlement” and exercises “control” as those terms are defined in the Uniform Commercial Code. The Fund has established procedures for monitoring the market value of the transferred
Annual Shareholder Report
28

securities and requiring the transfer of additional eligible securities if necessary to equal at least the repurchase price. These procedures also allow the other party to require securities to be transferred from the account to the extent that their market value exceeds the repurchase price or in exchange for other eligible securities of equivalent market value.
The insolvency of the other party or other failure to repurchase the securities may delay the disposition of the underlying securities or cause the Fund to receive less than the full repurchase price. Under the terms of the repurchase agreement, any amounts received by the Fund in excess of the repurchase price and related transaction costs must be remitted to the other party.
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements in which eligible securities are transferred into joint trading accounts maintained by the custodian or sub-custodian for investment companies and other clients advised by the Fund’s Adviser and its affiliates. The Fund will participate on a pro rata basis with the other investment companies and clients in its share of the securities transferred under such repurchase agreements and in its share of proceeds from any repurchase or other disposition of such securities.
Investment Income, Gains and Losses and Distributions
Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade-date basis. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are recorded on an identified-cost basis. Interest income and expenses are accrued daily. Dividend income and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Foreign dividends are recorded on the ex-dividend date or when the Fund is informed of the ex-dividend date. Distributions of net investment income, if any, are declared and paid annually. Non-cash dividends included in dividend income, if any, are recorded at fair value. Amortization/accretion of premium and discount is included in investment income. Investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses, and certain fund-level expenses are allocated to each class based on relative average daily net assets, except that select classes will bear certain expenses unique to those classes. The detail of the total fund expense waiver and reimbursements of $765,004 is disclosed in Note 2 and Note 5. For the year ended July 31, 2020, transfer agent fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Transfer Agent
Fees Incurred
Transfer Agent
Fees Reimbursed
Class A Shares $78,456 $(20,385)
Class C Shares 35,582 (11,017)
Institutional Shares 231,607 (169,250)
Class R6 Shares 1,579
TOTAL $347,224 $(200,652)
Dividends are declared separately for each class. No class has preferential dividend rights; differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses.
Annual Shareholder Report
29

Other Service Fees
The Fund may pay other service fees up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A Shares and Class C Shares to financial intermediaries or to Federated Shareholder Services Company (FSSC) for providing services to shareholders and maintaining shareholder accounts. Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FSSC may voluntarily reimburse the Fund for other service fees. For the year ended July 31, 2020, other service fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Other Service
Fees Incurred
Class A Shares $183,418
Class C Shares 77,634
TOTAL $261,052
Federal Taxes
It is the Fund’s policy to comply with the Subchapter M provision of the Internal Revenue Code and to distribute to shareholders each year substantially all of its income. Accordingly, no provision for federal income tax is necessary. As of and during the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund did not have a liability for any uncertain tax positions. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to tax liabilities as income tax expense in the Statement of Operations. As of July 31, 2020, tax years 2017 through 2020 remain subject to examination by the Fund’s major tax jurisdictions, which include the United States of America and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The Fund may be subject to taxes imposed by governments of countries in which it invests. Such taxes are generally based on either income or gains earned or repatriated. The Fund accrues and applies such taxes to net investment income, net realized gains and net unrealized gains as income and/or gains are earned.
When-Issued and Delayed-Delivery Transactions
The Fund may engage in when-issued or delayed-delivery transactions. The Fund records when-issued securities on the trade date and maintains security positions such that sufficient liquid assets will be available to make payment for the securities purchased. Securities purchased on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis are marked to market daily and begin earning interest on the settlement date. Losses may occur on these transactions due to changes in market conditions or the failure of counterparties to perform under the contract.
Securities Lending
The Fund participates in a securities lending program providing for the lending of equity securities to qualified brokers. The term of the loans within the program is one year or less. The Fund normally receives cash collateral for securities loaned that is invested in affiliated money market funds, other money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements. Investments in money market funds may include funds with a “floating” NAV that can impose redemption fees and liquidity gates, impose certain operational impediments to investing cash collateral, and, if the investee fund’s NAV decreases, result in the Fund recognizing losses and being required to cover the decrease in the value of the cash collateral. Collateral is maintained at a minimum level of 100% of the market value of investments loaned, plus interest, if applicable. In accordance with the Fund’s securities lending agreement, the market value of securities on loan is
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determined each day at the close of business and any additional collateral required to cover the value of securities on loan is delivered to the Fund on the next business day. Earnings on collateral are allocated between the borrower of the security, the securities lending agent, as a fee for its services under the program and the Fund, according to agreed-upon rates. The Fund will not have the right to vote on securities while they are on loan. However, the Fund will attempt to terminate a loan in an effort to reacquire the securities in time to vote on matters that are deemed to be material by the Adviser. There can be no assurance that the Fund will have sufficient notice of such matters to be able to terminate the loan in time to vote thereon.
Securities lending transactions are subject to Master Netting Agreements which are agreements between the Fund and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Fund, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented on the Portfolio of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities are not net settlement amounts but gross. As indicated below, the cash collateral received by the Fund exceeds the market value of the securities loaned reducing the net settlement amount to zero. The chart below identifies the amount of collateral received as well as the market value of securities on loan. Additionally, the securities lending agreement executed by the Fund includes an indemnification clause. This clause stipulates that the borrower will reimburse the Fund for any losses as a result of any failure of the borrower to return equivalent securities to the Fund.
As of July 31, 2020, securities subject to this type of arrangement and related collateral were as follows:
Market Value of
Securities Loaned
Collateral
Received
$7,071,666 $7,296,777
Other
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets, liabilities, expenses and revenues reported in the financial statements. Actual results could differ materially from those estimated. The Fund applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance.
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3. SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
The following tables summarize share activity:
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class A Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 690,025 $19,860,088 1,197,944 $35,149,177
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from PNC Multi-Factor All Cap Fund 69,799 2,108,622
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 75,909 2,245,758 143,909 3,662,745
Shares redeemed (654,712) (18,099,902) (377,081) (10,640,181)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
CLASS A SHARE TRANSACTIONS
181,021 $6,114,566 964,772 $28,171,741
    
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class C Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 229,788 $6,229,160 486,557 $12,740,476
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from PNC Multi-Factor All Cap Fund 5,925 167,267
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 32,298 888,524 73,190 1,749,965
Shares redeemed (368,127) (9,700,529) (806,777) (22,501,025)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
CLASS C SHARE TRANSACTIONS
(100,116) $(2,415,578) (247,030) $(8,010,584)
    
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Institutional Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 3,765,883 $109,245,509 6,734,928 $195,716,816
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from PNC Multi-Factor All Cap Fund 82,367 2,523,713
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 227,539 6,839,149 442,206 11,395,972
Shares redeemed (3,642,257) (103,350,480) (3,191,121) (90,332,398)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
INSTITUTIONAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS
433,532 $15,257,891 3,986,013 $116,780,390
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Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class R6 Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 96,159 $2,767,189 448,233 $13,319,703
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 6,915 204,010 23,752 601,199
Shares redeemed (140,698) (4,034,682) (846,550) (23,774,795)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
CLASS R6 SHARE TRANSACTIONS
(37,624) $(1,063,483) (374,565) $(9,853,893)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
TOTAL FUND SHARE TRANSACTIONS
476,813 $17,893,396 4,329,190 $127,087,654
4. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
The timing and character of income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP. These differences are due to differing treatments for regulatory settlement proceeds, distributions required for excise tax purposes and the capital loss carry forward and wash sale loss deferral tax attributes received from the Acquired Fund. For the year ended July 31, 2020, permanent differences identified and reclassified among the components of net assets were as follows:
Increase (Decrease)
Paid-In Capital Total Distributable
Earnings (Loss)
$(4,866,441) $4,866,441
Net investment income (loss), net realized gains (losses), and net assets were not affected by this reclassification.
The tax character of distributions as reported on the Statement of Changes in Net Assets for the years ended July 31, 2020 and 2019, was as follows:
  2020 2019
Ordinary income1 $5,661,147 $6,315,404
Long-term capital gains $5,564,730 $12,241,132
1 For tax purposes, short-term capital gain distributions are considered ordinary income distributions.
As of July 31, 2020, the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Undistributed ordinary income $1,133,711
Net unrealized appreciation $51,734,184
Capital loss deferrals $(889,407)
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis net unrealized appreciation/depreciation is attributable to differing treatments for deferral of losses on wash sales.
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At July 31, 2020, the cost of investments for federal tax purposes was $317,751,065. The net unrealized appreciation of investments for federal tax purposes was $51,734,184. This consists of net unrealized appreciation from investments for those securities having an excess of value over cost of $60,646,206 and net unrealized depreciation from investments for those securities having an excess of cost over value of $8,912,022.
Under current tax rules, capital losses on securities transactions and foreign currency losses realized after October 31 may be deferred, in whole or in part, and treated as occurring on the first day of the following fiscal year. As of July 31, 2020, for federal income tax purposes, post October losses of $889,407 were deferred to August 1, 2020.
The Fund used capital loss carryforwards of $199,858 to offset capital gains realized during the year ended July 31, 2020.
5. INVESTMENT ADVISER FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Investment Adviser Fee
The advisory agreement between the Fund and the Adviser provides for an annual fee equal to 0.70% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Prior to July 1, 2019, the annual advisory fee was 0.75% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, the Adviser may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee and/or reimburse certain operating expenses of the Fund. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Adviser voluntarily waived $557,706 of its fee and voluntarily reimbursed $200,652 of transfer agent fees. The Adviser has agreed to reimburse the Fund for certain investment adviser fees as a result of transactions in other affiliated investment companies. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Adviser reimbursed $6,646.
Administrative Fee
Federated Administrative Services (FAS), under the Administrative Services Agreement, provides the Fund with administrative personnel and services. 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. The fee paid to FAS is based on the average daily net assets of the Investment Complex as specified below:
Administrative Fee Average Daily Net Assets
of the Investment Complex
0.100% on assets up to $50 billion
0.075% on assets over $50 billion
Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FAS may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the annualized fee paid to FAS was 0.079% of average daily net assets of the Fund.
In addition, FAS may charge certain out-of-pocket expenses to the Fund.
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Distribution Services Fee
The Fund has adopted a Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. Under the terms of the Plan, the Fund will compensate Federated Securities Corp. (FSC), the principal distributor, from the daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A Shares, and Class C Shares to finance activities intended to result in the sale of these shares. The Plan provides that the Fund may incur distribution expenses at the following percentages of average daily net assets annually, to compensate FSC:
  Percentage of Average Daily
Net Assets of Class
Class A Shares 0.05%
Class C Shares 0.75%
FSC may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, distribution services fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Distribution Services
Fees Incurred
Class C Shares $232,902
When FSC receives fees, it may pay some or all of them to financial intermediaries whose customers purchase shares. For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSC retained $51,320 of fees paid by the Fund. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund’s Class A Shares did not incur a distribution services fee; however, it may begin to incur this fee upon approval of the Trustees.
Other Service Fees
For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSSC received $4,297 of the other service fees disclosed in Note 2.
Sales Charges
Front-end sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSC) do not represent expenses of the Fund. They are deducted from the proceeds of sales of Fund shares prior to investment or from redemption proceeds prior to remittance, as applicable. For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSC retained $18,598 in sales charges from the sale of Class A Shares. FSC also retained $5,780 and $5,306 of CDSC relating to redemptions of Class A Shares and Class C Shares, respectively.
Expense Limitation
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 interest expenses, extraordinary expenses, and proxy-related expenses paid by the Fund, if any) paid by the Fund’s Class A Shares, Class C Shares Institutional Shares and R6 Shares (after the voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements) will not exceed 1.04%, 1.79%, 0.74% and 0.73% (the “Fee Limit”), respectively, up to but not including the later of (the “Termination Date”): (a) October 1, 2021; or (b) the date of the Fund’s next effective Prospectus. While the
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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.
Directors’/Trustees’ and Miscellaneous Fees
Certain Officers and Trustees of the Fund are Officers and Directors or Trustees of certain of the above companies. To efficiently facilitate payment, Independent Directors’/Trustees’ fees and certain expenses related to conducting meetings of the Directors/Trustees and other miscellaneous expenses are paid by an affiliate of the Adviser which in due course are reimbursed by the Fund. These expenses related to conducting meetings of the Directors/Trustees and other miscellaneous expenses may be included in Accrued and Miscellaneous Expenses on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and Statement of Operations, respectively.
6. INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
Purchases and sales of investments, excluding long-term U.S. government securities and short-term obligations, for the year ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Purchases $523,699,303
Sales $514,229,396
7. CONCENTRATION OF RISK
The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities of companies that are deemed by the Fund’s management to be classified in similar business sectors. Economic developments may have an effect on the liquidity and volatility of the portfolio securities.
8. 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 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 July 31, 2020, the Fund had no outstanding loans. During the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund did not utilize the LOC.
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9. INTERFUND LENDING
Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the SEC, the Fund, along with other funds advised by subsidiaries of Federated Hermes, Inc., may participate in an interfund lending program. This program provides an alternative credit facility allowing the Fund to borrow from other participating affiliated funds. As of July 31, 2020, there were no outstanding loans. During the year ended July 31, 2020, the program was not utilized.
10. OTHER MATTERS
An outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus was first detected in China in December 2019 and subsequently spread globally. As of the date of the issuance of these financial statements, this coronavirus has resulted in closing borders, enhanced health screenings, 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.
11. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020, the amount of long-term capital gains designated by the Fund was $5,564,730.
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020, 31.01% of total ordinary income distributions made by the Fund are qualifying dividends which may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 15%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Act of 2003. Complete information is reported in conjunction with the reporting of your distributions on Form 1099-DIV.
Of the ordinary income (including short-term capital gain) distributions made by the Fund during the year ended July 31, 2020, 31.01% qualify for the dividend received deduction available to corporate shareholders.
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF FEDERATED HERMES MDT SERIES AND SHAREHOLDERS OF FEDERATED HERMES MDT ALL CAP CORE FUND:
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund (formerly, Federated MDT All Cap Core Fund) (the “Fund”) (one of the portfolios constituting Federated Hermes MDT Series (formerly, Federated MDT Series) (the “Trust”)), including the portfolio of investments, as of July 31, 2020, and the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund (one of the funds constituting Federated Hermes MDT Series) at July 31, 2020, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Trust’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Trust in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial highlights are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
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Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of July 31, 2020, by correspondence with the custodian and others or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from others were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
We have served as the auditor of one or more Federated Hermes investment companies since 1979.
Boston, Massachusetts
September 22, 2020
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Shareholder Expense Example (unaudited)
As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase or redemption payments; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and to the extent applicable, distribution (12b-1) fees and/or other service fees and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you to understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. It is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from February 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020.
ACTUAL EXPENSES
The first section of the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this section, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you incurred over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first section under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses attributable to your investment during this period.
HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES
The second section of the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. Thus, you should not use the hypothetical account values and expenses to estimate the actual ending account balance or your expenses for the period. Rather, these figures are required to be provided to enable you to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
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Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transaction costs, such as sales charges (loads) on purchase or redemption payments. Therefore, the second section of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transaction costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
  Beginning
Account Value
2/1/2020
Ending
Account Value
7/31/2020
Expenses Paid
During Period1
Actual:      
Class A Shares $1,000 $1,052.00 $5.31
Class C Shares $1,000 $1,047.80 $9.11
Institutional Shares $1,000 $1,053.60 $3.78
Class R6 Shares $1,000 $1,053.60 $3.73
Hypothetical (assuming a 5% return
before expenses):
     
Class A Shares $1,000 $1,019.70 $5.22
Class C Shares $1,000 $1,016.00 $8.97
Institutional Shares $1,000 $1,021.20 $3.72
Class R6 Shares $1,000 $1,021.20 $3.67
1 Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratios, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 (to reflect the one-half-year period). The annualized net expense ratios are as follows:
   
Class A Shares 1.04%
Class C Shares 1.79%
Institutional Shares 0.74%
Class R6 Shares 0.73%
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Board of Trustees and Trust Officers
The Board of Trustees is responsible for managing the Trust’s business affairs and for exercising all the Trust’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. The address of all Independent Trustees listed is 4000 Ericsson Drive, Warrendale, PA 15086-7561; Attention: Mutual Fund Board. As of December 31, 2019, the Trust comprised five portfolio(s), and the Federated Hermes Fund Family consisted of 41 investment companies (comprising 135 portfolios). Unless otherwise noted, each Officer is elected annually. Unless otherwise noted, each Trustee oversees all portfolios in the Federated Hermes Fund Family and serves for an indefinite term. The Fund’s Statement of Additional Information includes additional information about Trust Trustees and is available, without charge and upon request, by calling 1-800-341-7400.
Interested TRUSTEES Background
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
J. Christopher Donahue*
Birth Date: April 11, 1949
President and Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: May 2006
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Director or Trustee of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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.
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
John B. Fisher*
Birth Date: May 16, 1956
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: May 2016
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Director or Trustee of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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 of some of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family 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; President and CEO of Passport Research, Ltd.; 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.
* Reasons for “interested” status: J. Christopher Donahue and John B. Fisher are interested due to their beneficial ownership of shares of Federated Hermes, Inc. and due to positions they hold with Federated Hermes, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES Background
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
John T. Collins
Birth Date: January 24, 1947
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving:
October 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; formerly, Chairman and CEO, The Collins Group, Inc. (a private equity firm) (Retired).
Other Directorships Held: Chairman of the Board of Directors, Director, and Chairman of the Compensation Committee, 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).
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
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 Fund Family; 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.
Maureen Lally-Green
Birth Date: July 5, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: August 2009
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Adjunct Professor 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; Director and Vice Chair, Our Campaign for the Church Alive!, Inc.; 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, St. Vincent College; and Director and Chair, North Catholic High School, Inc.
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.
Birth Date: April 10, 1945
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Management Consultant and Author.
Other Directorships Held: None.
Qualifications: Mr. Mansfield has served as a Marine Corps officer and in several banking, business management, educational roles and directorship positions throughout his long career. He remains active as a Management Consultant and Author.
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 Fund Family; 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).
P. Jerome Richey
Birth Date: February 23, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving:
October 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Management Consultant; Retired; formerly, Senior Vice Chancellor and Chief Legal Officer, University of Pittsburgh and Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly known as CONSOL Energy Inc.).
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, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly known as CONSOL Energy Inc.); and Board Member, Ethics Counsel and Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC (a law firm).
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
John S. Walsh
Birth Date:
November 28, 1957
Trustee

Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee, and Chair of the Board of Directors or Trustees, of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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).
OFFICERS
Name
Birth Date
Address
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years
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 Fund Family; Senior Vice President, Federated Administrative Services; Financial and Operations Principal for Federated Securities Corp. and Edgewood Services, Inc.; 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.
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Name
Birth Date
Address
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years
and Previous Position(s)
Peter J. Germain
Birth Date:
September 3, 1959
CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER, SECRETARY and EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Officer since: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Mr. Germain is Chief Legal Officer, Secretary and Executive Vice President of the Federated Hermes Fund Family. 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 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 F. Auth
Birth Date: September 13, 1956
101 Park Avenue
41st Floor
New York, NY 10178
CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER
Officer since: June 2012
Principal Occupations: Stephen F. Auth is Chief Investment Officer of various Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Executive Vice President, Federated Investment Counseling, Federated Global Investment Management Corp. and Federated Equity Management Company of Pennsylvania.
Previous Positions: Executive Vice President, Federated Investment Management Company and Passport Research, Ltd. (investment advisory subsidiary of Federated); Senior Vice President, Global Portfolio Management Services Division; Senior Vice President, Federated Investment Management Company and Passport Research, Ltd.; Senior Managing Director and Portfolio Manager, Prudential Investments.
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 Fund Family; 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.
    
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Evaluation and Approval of Advisory ContractMay 2020
Federated MDT All Cap Core Fund (the “Fund”)
(EFFECTIVE CLOSE OF BUSINESS ON JUNE 26, 2020, THE FUND’S NAME CHANGED TO FEDERATED HERMES MDT ALL CAP CORE FUND)
At its meetings in May 2020 (the “May Meetings”), the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of those Trustees who are not “interested persons” of the Fund, as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “Independent Trustees”), reviewed and unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory contract between the Fund and Federated MDTA LLC (the “Adviser”) with respect to the Fund (the “Contract”) for an additional one-year term. The Board’s determination to approve the continuation of the Contract reflects the exercise of its business judgment after considering all of the information and factors believed to be relevant and appropriate on whether to continue the existing arrangements. The information, factors and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board’s approval are summarized below.
Information Received and Review Process
At the request of the Independent Trustees, the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer (the “CCO”) furnished to the Board in advance of its May Meetings an independent written evaluation presenting on the topics discussed below. The Board considered the CCO’s independent written evaluation (the “CCO Fee Evaluation Report”), along with other information, in evaluating the reasonableness of the Fund’s management fee and in determining to approve the continuation of the Contract. The CCO, in preparing the CCO Fee Evaluation Report, has the authority to retain consultants, experts or staff as reasonably necessary to assist in the performance of his duties, reports directly to the Board, and can be terminated only with the approval of a majority of the Independent Trustees. At the request of the Independent Trustees, the CCO Fee Evaluation Report followed the same general approach and covered the same topics as that of the report that had previously been delivered by the CCO in his capacity as “Senior Officer,” prior to the elimination of the Senior Officer position in December 2017.
In addition to the extensive materials that comprise and accompany the CCO Fee Evaluation Report, in the months preceding the May Meetings, the Board requested and reviewed written responses and supporting materials prepared by the Adviser and its affiliates (collectively, “Federated Hermes”) in response to requests posed to Federated Hermes on behalf of the Independent Trustees encompassing a wide variety of topics. The Board also considered such additional matters as the Independent Trustees deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Contract, which included detailed information about the Fund and Federated Hermes furnished to the Board at its meetings throughout the year
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and in between regularly scheduled meetings on particular matters as the need arose, as well as information specifically prepared in connection with the approval of the continuation of the Contract that was presented at the May Meetings.
The Board’s consideration of the Contract included review of materials and information covering the following matters, among others: the Adviser’s investment philosophy, revenue, profitability, personnel and processes; investment and operating strategies; the Fund’s short-term and long-term performance (in absolute terms, both on a gross basis and net of expenses, and relative to the Fund’s particular investment program and a group of its peer funds and/or its benchmark, as appropriate) and comments on the reasons for the Fund’s performance; the Fund’s investment objectives; the Fund’s expenses, including the advisory fee and the overall expense structure of the Fund (both in absolute terms and relative to a group of its peer funds), with due regard for contractual or voluntary expense limitations (if any); the use and allocation of brokerage commissions derived from trading the Fund’s portfolio securities (if any); and the nature, quality and extent of the advisory and other services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates. The Board also considered the preferences and expectations of Fund shareholders; the entrepreneurial and other risks assumed by the Adviser in sponsoring and managing the Fund; the continuing state of competition in the mutual fund industry and market practices; the range of comparable fees for similar funds in the mutual fund industry; the Fund’s relationship to the other funds advised by Federated Hermes (each, a “Federated Hermes Fund”), which include a comprehensive array of funds with different investment objectives, policies and strategies which are generally available for exchange without the incurrence of additional sales charges; compliance and audit reports concerning the Federated Hermes Funds and the Federated Hermes’ affiliates that service them (including communications from regulatory agencies), as well as Federated Hermes’ responses to any issues raised therein; and relevant developments in the mutual fund industry and how the Federated Hermes Funds and/or Federated Hermes may be responding to them. In addition, the Board received and considered information furnished by Federated Hermes on the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak on Federated Hermes generally and the Fund in particular, including, among other information, the current and anticipated impacts on the management, operations and performance of the Fund. The Board noted that its evaluation process is evolutionary and that the criteria considered and the emphasis placed on relevant criteria may change in recognition of changing circumstances in the mutual fund marketplace.
The Board also considered judicial decisions concerning allegedly excessive investment advisory fees in determining to approve the Contract. Using these judicial decisions as a guide, the Board observed that the following factors may be relevant to an adviser’s fiduciary duty with respect to its receipt of
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compensation from a fund: (1) the nature and quality of the services provided by an adviser to a fund and its shareholders (including the performance of the fund, its benchmark, and comparable funds); (2) an adviser’s cost of providing the services (including the profitability to an adviser of providing advisory services to a fund); (3) the extent to which an adviser may realize “economies of scale” as a fund grows larger and, if such economies of scale exist, whether they have been shared with a fund and its shareholders or the family of funds; (4) any “fall-out” financial benefits that accrue to an adviser because of its relationship with a fund (including research services received from brokers that execute fund trades and any fees paid to affiliates of an adviser for services rendered to a fund); (5) comparative fee and expense structures (including a comparison of fees paid to an adviser with those paid by similar funds both internally and externally as well as management fees charged to institutional and other advisory clients of the adviser for what might be viewed as like services); and (6) the extent of care, conscientiousness and independence with which the fund’s board members perform their duties and their expertise (including whether they are fully informed about all facts the board deems relevant to its consideration of an adviser’s services and fees). The Board noted that the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) disclosure requirements regarding the basis for a fund board’s approval of the fund’s investment advisory contracts generally align with the factors listed above. The Board was aware of these factors and was guided by them in its review of the Contract to the extent it considered them to be appropriate and relevant, as discussed further below.
The Board considered and weighed these factors in light of its substantial accumulated experience in governing the Fund and working with Federated Hermes on matters relating to the Federated Hermes Funds. While individual members of the Board may have weighed certain factors differently, the Board’s determination to continue the Contract was based on a comprehensive consideration of all information provided to the Board throughout the year and specifically with respect to the continuation of the Contract. The Independent Trustees were assisted throughout the evaluation process by independent legal counsel. In connection with their deliberations at the May Meetings, the Independent Trustees met separately in executive session with their independent legal counsel and without management present to review the relevant materials and consider their responsibilities under applicable laws. In addition, senior management representatives of Federated Hermes also met with the Independent Trustees and their independent legal counsel to discuss the materials and presentations furnished to the Board at the May Meetings. The Board considered the approval of the Contract for the Fund as part of its consideration of agreements for funds across the Federated Hermes Funds family, but its approvals were made on a fund-by-fund basis.
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Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and the resources of the Adviser and its affiliates dedicated to the Fund. In this regard, the Board evaluated, among other things, the Adviser’s personnel, experience and track record, as well as the financial resources and overall reputation of Federated Hermes and its willingness to invest in personnel and infrastructure that benefit the Federated Hermes Funds. The Board noted the significant acquisition of Hermes Fund Managers Limited by Federated Hermes in 2018, which has deepened the organization’s investment management expertise and capabilities and expanded the investment process for all of the Federated Hermes Funds to incorporate environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) factors and issuer engagement on ESG matters.
In addition, the Board reviewed the qualifications, backgrounds and responsibilities of the portfolio management team primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund and the Adviser’s ability and experience in attracting and retaining qualified personnel to service the Fund. The Board noted the compliance program of the Adviser and the compliance-related resources devoted by the Adviser and its affiliates in support of the Fund’s obligations pursuant to Rule 38a-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, including the Adviser’s commitment to respond to rulemaking and other regulatory initiatives of the SEC. such as the liquidity risk management program rules. In addition, the Board considered the response by the Adviser to recent market conditions and considered the overall performance of the Adviser in this context. The Fund’s ability to deliver competitive performance when compared to its Performance Peer Group (as defined below) was also deemed to be relevant by the Board as a useful indicator of how the Adviser is executing the Fund’s investment program. The Adviser’s ability to execute this program was one of the Board’s considerations in reaching a conclusion that the nature, extent and quality of the Adviser’s investment management and related services warrant the continuation of the Contract.
Fund Investment Performance
In evaluating the Fund’s investment performance, the Board considered performance results in light of the Fund’s investment objective, strategies and risks, as disclosed in the Fund’s prospectus. The Board also considered the Fund’s performance in light of the overall recent market conditions. The Board considered detailed investment reports on the Fund’s performance over different time periods that were provided to the Board throughout the year and in connection with the May Meetings and evaluated the Adviser’s analysis of the Fund’s performance for these time periods. The Board also reviewed comparative information regarding the performance of other mutual funds in the category of peer funds selected by Morningstar, Inc. (the “Morningstar”), an independent fund ranking organization (the “Performance Peer Group”), noting the CCO’s view that comparisons to fund peer groups may be helpful,
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though not conclusive, in evaluating the performance of the Adviser in managing the Fund. The Board considered, in evaluating such comparisons, that in some cases there may be differences in the funds’ investment objectives or investment management techniques, or the costs to implement funds, even within the same Performance Peer Group. In this connection, the Board considered that the Fund’s quantitative focus makes fee and expense comparisons particularly difficult as the funds in the Performance Peer Group varied widely in their complexity, and the management of the Fund is among the more complex relative to its Performance Peer Group.
For the one-year, three-year and five-year periods ended December 31, 2019, the Fund’s performance was above the median of the relevant Performance Peer Group. In addition, the Board was informed by the Adviser that, for the same periods, the Fund underperformed its benchmark index for the one-year, three-year and five-year periods.
Following such evaluation, and full deliberations, the Board concluded that the performance of the Fund supported renewal of the Contract.
Fund Expenses
While mindful that courts have cautioned against giving too much weight to comparative information concerning fees charged by other advisers for managing funds with comparable investment programs, the Board has found the use of such comparisons to be relevant to its deliberations. In this regard, the Board was presented with, and considered, information regarding the contractual advisory fee rates, net advisory fee rates, total expense ratios and each element of the Fund’s total expense ratio (i.e., gross and net advisory fees, administrative fees, custody fees, portfolio accounting fees and transfer agency fees) relative to an appropriate group of peer funds compiled by Federated Hermes from the category of peer funds selected by Morningstar (the “Expense Peer Group”). The Board received a description of the methodology used to select the Expense Peer Group from the overall Morningstar category. The Board also reviewed comparative information regarding the fees and expenses of the broader group of funds in the overall Morningstar category. The Board focused on comparisons with other similar mutual funds more heavily than non-mutual fund products or services because such comparisons are believed to be more relevant. The Board considered that other mutual funds are the products most like the Fund, in that they are readily available to Fund shareholders as alternative investment vehicles, and they are the type of investment vehicle, in fact, chosen and maintained by the Fund’s investors. The Board noted that the range of their fees and expenses, therefore, appears to be a relevant indicator of what consumers have found to be reasonable in the marketplace in which the Fund competes.
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The Board reviewed the contractual advisory fee rate, net advisory fee rate and other expenses of the Fund and noted the position of the Fund’s fee rates relative to its Expense Peer Group. In this regard, the Board noted that the contractual advisory fee rate was above the median of the relevant Expense Peer Group, but the Board noted the applicable waivers and reimbursements, and that the overall expense structure of the Fund remained competitive in the context of other factors considered by the Board. In this regard, the Board had been previously advised that, while comparisons to its Expense Peer Group are relevant in judging the reasonableness of advisory fees, the Fund’s quantitative focus makes fee and expense comparisons particularly difficult. Although the Fund’s advisory fee was above the median of its Expense Peer Group range, the funds in the Expense Peer Group varied widely in their complexity, and the Board has been informed that the management of the Fund is among the more complex relative to its Expense Peer Group.
For comparison, the Board received and considered information about the fees charged by Federated Hermes for providing advisory services to other types of clients with investment strategies similar to those of the Federated Hermes Funds, including non-mutual fund clients such as institutional separate accounts and third-party unaffiliated mutual funds for which the Adviser or its affiliates serve as sub-adviser. The Board noted the CCO’s conclusion that mon-mutual fund clients are inherently different products due to the following differences, among others: (i) different types of targeted investors; (ii) different applicable laws and regulations; (iii) different legal structures; (iv) different average account sizes and portfolio management techniques made necessary by different cash flows and different associated costs; (v) the time spent by portfolio managers and their teams (among other personnel across various departments, including legal, compliance and risk management) in reviewing securities pricing, addressing different administrative responsibilities, and addressing different degrees of risk associated with management; and (vi) a variety of different costs. The Board also considered information regarding the differences in the nature of the services required for Federated Hermes to manage its proprietary mutual fund business versus managing a discrete pool of assets as a sub-adviser to another institution’s mutual fund, noting that Federated Hermes generally performs significant additional services and assumes substantially greater risks in managing the Fund and other Federated Hermes Funds than in its role as sub-adviser to an unaffiliated third-party mutual fund. The Board noted that the CCO did not consider the fees for providing advisory services to other types of clients to be determinative in judging the appropriateness of the Federated Hermes Funds’ advisory fees.
The Board considered the CCO’s view that the services, administrative responsibilities and risks associated with such relationships are quite different than serving as a primary adviser to a fund.
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Following such evaluation, and full deliberations, the Board concluded that the fees and expenses of the Fund are reasonable and supported renewal of the Contract.
Profitability and Other Benefits
The Board also received financial information about Federated Hermes, including information regarding the compensation and ancillary (or “fall-out”) benefits Federated Hermes derived from its relationships with the Federated Hermes Funds. This information covered not only the fees under the Federated Hermes Funds’ investment advisory contracts, but also fees received by Federated Hermes’ affiliates for providing other services to the Federated Hermes Funds under separate contracts (e.g., for serving as the Federated Hermes Funds’ administrator and distributor). In this regard, the Board considered that certain of Federated Hermes’ affiliates provide distribution and shareholder services to the Federated Hermes Funds, for which they may be compensated through distribution and servicing fees paid pursuant to Rule 12b-1 plans or otherwise. The Board also received and considered information detailing any indirect benefit Federated Hermes may derive from its receipt of research services from brokers who execute portfolio trades for the Federated Hermes Funds. In addition, the Board considered the fact that, in order for the Federated Hermes Fund to be competitive in the marketplace, the Adviser and its affiliates frequently waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses and have disclosed to Federated Hermes Fund shareholders and/or reported to the Board their intention to do so in the future. Moreover, the Board received and considered regular reports from Federated Hermes throughout the year as to the institution, adjustment or elimination of these voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements.
The Board received and considered information furnished by Federated Hermes, as requested by the CCO, that reported revenues on a fund-by-fund basis and made estimates of the allocation of expenses on a fund-by-fund basis, using allocation methodologies specified by the CCO and described to the Board. The Board considered the CCO’s view that, while these cost allocation reports apply consistent allocation processes, the inherent difficulties in allocating costs continues to cause the CCO to question the precision of the process and to conclude that such reports may be unreliable, because a single change in an allocation estimate may dramatically alter the resulting estimate of cost and/or profitability of a Federated Hermes Fund and may produce unintended consequences. The allocation information, including the CCO’s view that fund-by-fund estimations may be unreliable, was considered in the evaluation by the Board. In addition, the Board considered that, during the prior year, an independent consultant conducted a review of the allocation methodologies used by Federated Hermes in estimating profitability for
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purposes of reporting to the Board in connection with the continuation of the Contract. The Board noted the consultant’s view that, although there is no single best method to allocate expenses, the methodologies used by Federated Hermes are reasonable.
The Board also reviewed information compiled by Federated Hermes comparing its profitability information to other publicly held fund management companies, including information regarding profitability trends over time. The Board considered the CCO’s conclusion that, based on such profitability information, Federated Hermes’ profit margins did not appear to be excessive. The Board also considered the CCO’s view that Federated Hermes appeared financially sound, with the resources necessary to fulfill its obligations under its contracts with the Federated Hermes Funds.
In 2019, the Board approved a reduction of 5 basis points in the contractual advisory fee.
Economies of Scale
The Board received and considered information about the notion of possible realization of “economies of scale” as a fund grows larger, the difficulties of calculating economies of scale at an individual fund level, and the extent to which potential scale benefits are shared with shareholders. In this regard, the Board considered that Federated Hermes has made significant and long-term investments in areas that support all of the Federated Hermes Funds, such as personnel and processes for the portfolio management, trading operations, issuer engagement (including with respect to ESG matters), shareholder services, compliance, business continuity, internal audit and risk management functions, as well as systems technology (including technology relating to cybersecurity) and use of data. The Board noted that Federated Hermes’ investments in these areas are extensive and are designed to provide enhanced services to the Federated Hermes Funds and their shareholders. The Board considered that the benefits of these investments (as well as the benefits of any economies of scale, should they exist) are likely to be shared with the Federated Hermes Fund family as a whole. In addition, the Board considered that the Adviser and its affiliates have frequently waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses for the Federated Hermes Funds and that such waivers and reimbursements are another means for potential economies of scale to be shared with shareholders and can provide protection from an increase in expenses if a Federated Hermes Fund’s assets decline. Federated Hermes, as it does throughout the year, and specifically in connection with the Board’s review of the Contract, furnished information relative to adviser-paid fees (commonly referred to as revenue sharing). The Board considered the beliefs of Federated Hermes and the CCO that this information should be viewed to determine if there was an incentive to either not apply breakpoints or to apply breakpoints, at higher levels and should not be viewed to determine the appropriateness of advisory fees. The Board also noted the absence of any
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applicable regulatory or industry guidelines on this subject, which is compounded by the lack of any common industry practice or general pattern with respect to structuring fund advisory fees with “breakpoints” that serve to reduce the fee as a fund attains a certain size.
Conclusions
The Board considered the CCO’s conclusion that his observations and the information accompanying the CCO Fee Evaluation Report show that the management fee for the Fund was reasonable and the CCO’s recommendation that the Board approve the management fee. The Board noted that, under these circumstances, no changes were recommended to, and no objection was raised to the continuation of, the Contract by the CCO. The CCO also recognized that the Board’s evaluation of the Federated Hermes Funds’ advisory and subadvisory arrangements is a continuing and on-going process that is informed by the information that the Board requests and receives from management throughout the course of the year and, in this regard, the CCO noted certain items for future reporting to the Board or further consideration by management as the Board continues its on-going oversight of the Federated Hermes Funds.
In its determination to continue an existing investment advisory contract, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision to terminate or not renew an investment advisory contract. In particular, the Board recognized that many shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Adviser’s industry standing and reputation and with the expectation that the Adviser will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund. Thus, the Board’s approval of the Contract reflected the fact that it is the shareholders who have effectively selected the Adviser by virtue of having invested in the Fund. The Board concluded that, in light of the factors summarized above, including the nature, quality and scope of the services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates, continuation of the Contract was appropriate.
The Board based its determination to approve the Contract on the totality of the circumstances and relevant factors and with a view to past and future long-term considerations. Not all of the factors and considerations identified above were necessarily deemed to be relevant to the Fund, nor did the Board consider any one of them to be determinative. With respect to the factors that were deemed to be relevant, the Board’s determination to approve the continuation of the Contract reflects its view that Federated Hermes’ performance and actions provided a satisfactory basis to support the determination to continue the existing arrangement.
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Liquidity Risk Management Program Annual Evaluation of Adequacy and Effectiveness
In accordance with Rule 22e-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Liquidity Rule”), Federated Hermes MDT Series (the “Trust”) has adopted and implemented a liquidity risk management program (the “LRMP”) for Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core Fund (the “Fund” and collectively with the Federated Hermes funds, the “Funds”). The LRMP seeks to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk. “Liquidity risk” is defined under the Liquidity Rule as the risk that the Fund is unable to meet redemption requests without significantly diluting remaining investors’ interests in the Fund. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) has approved the designation of the Funds’ investment advisers as the administrators for the LRMP (collectively, the “Administrator”). The Administrator has established a Liquidity Risk Management Committee (the “Committee”) comprised of representatives from various departments across the Administrator to assist it in the implementation and on-going administration of the LRMP. The Committee, in turn, has delegated to the Fixed Income and Equities Liquidity Committees, each a separate committee previously established by the Administrator, the responsibility to review and assess certain information related to the liquidity of the Funds that fall within their respective asset classes.
The Program is comprised of various components designed to support the assessment and/or management of liquidity risk, including: (1) the periodic assessment (no less frequently than annually) of certain factors that influence the Fund’s liquidity risk; (2) the periodic classification (no less frequently than monthly) of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories that reflect an estimate of their liquidity under current market conditions; (3) a 15% limit on the acquisition of “illiquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule); (4) to the extent a Fund does not invest primarily in “highly liquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule), the determination of a minimum percentage of the Fund’s assets that generally will be invested in highly liquid investments (an “HLIM”); (5) if a Fund has established an HLIM, the periodic review (no less frequently than annually) of the HLIM and the adoption of policies and procedures for responding to a shortfall of the Fund’s highly liquid investments below its HLIM; and (6) periodic reporting to the Board.
At its meetings in May 2020, the Board received and reviewed a written report from the Funds’ Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Risk Officer, on behalf of the Administrator, concerning the operation of the LRMP for the period from the LRMP’s inception on December 1, 2018 through March 31, 2020 (the “Period”). The Report addressed the operation of the LRMP and assessed its adequacy and effectiveness, including, where applicable, the operation of any HLIM established for a Fund. There were no
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material changes to the LRMP during the Period. The Report summarized the operation of the Program and the information and factors considered by the Administrator in assessing whether the Program has been adequately and effectively implemented with respect to the Funds. Such information and factors included, among other things:
■  the liquidity risk framework used to assess, manage, and periodically review each Fund’s liquidity risk and the results of this assessment, including a review of the Funds’ access to other available funding sources such as the Funds’ interfund lending facility, redemptions in-kind and committed lines of credit and confirmation that the Fund did not have to access any of these alternative funding sources during the Period;
■  the periodic classifications of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories and the methodologies and inputs used to classify the investments, including the Fund’s reasonably anticipated trade size;
■  the analysis received from a third-party liquidity assessment vendor that is taken into account in the process of determining the liquidity classifications of the Fund’s investments and the results of an evaluation of the services performed by the vendor in support of this process;
■  the fact that the Fund invested primarily in highly liquid investments during the Period and, therefore, was not required to establish, and has not established, an HLIM and the procedures for monitoring the status of the Fund as investing primarily in highly liquid investments;
■  the fact that the Fund invested no more than 15% of its assets in illiquid investments during the Period and the procedures for monitoring this limit; and
■  liquidity events during the Period, including the impact on liquidity caused by extended non-U.S. market closures and the market disruptions resulting from the novel coronavirus outbreak, and the fact that there were no specific liquidity events during the Period that materially affected the Fund’s liquidity risk.
Based on this review, the Administrator concluded that the LRMP is operating effectively to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk, and that the Program has been and continues to be adequately and effectively implemented to monitor and, as applicable, respond to the Fund’s liquidity developments.
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Voting Proxies on Fund Portfolio Securities
A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies, if any, relating to securities held in the Fund’s portfolio is available, without charge and upon request, by calling 1-800-341-7400. A report on “Form N-PX” of how the Fund voted any such 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.
Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
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.
Annual Shareholder Report
59

Mutual funds are not bank deposits or obligations, are not 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. Investment in mutual funds involves investment risk, including the possible loss of principal.
This Report is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by the Fund’s Prospectus, which contains facts concerning its objective and policies, management fees, expenses and other information.
Federated Hermes MDT All Cap Core 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
CUSIP 31421R106
CUSIP 31421R205
CUSIP 31421R304
CUSIP 31421R718
37309 (9/20)
© 2020 Federated Hermes, Inc.

 

 

 

Annual Shareholder Report
July 31, 2020
Share Class  | Ticker A | QABGX C | QCBGX Institutional | QIBGX R6 | QKBGX

Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund
(formerly, Federated MDT Balanced Fund)
Fund Established 2002

A Portfolio of Federated Hermes MDT Series
(formerly, Federated MDT Series)
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING REPORT DELIVERY
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the Fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the Fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Fund or your financial intermediary electronically by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank); other shareholders may call the Fund at 1-800-341-7400, Option 4.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the Fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank); other shareholders may call the Fund at 1-800-341-7400, Option 4. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the Fund complex or your financial intermediary.

Not FDIC Insured ■ May Lose Value ■ No Bank Guarantee

J. Christopher
Donahue
President
Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund
Letter from the President
Dear Valued Shareholder,
I am pleased to present the Annual Shareholder Report for your fund covering the period from August 1, 2019 through July 31, 2020.
As we all confront the unprecedented effects of the coronavirus and the challenges it presents to our families, communities, businesses and the financial markets, I want you to know that everyone at Federated Hermes is dedicated to helping you successfully navigate the markets ahead. You can count on us for the insights, investment management knowledge and client service that you have come to expect. Please refer to our website, FederatedInvestors.com, for timely updates on this and other economic and market matters.
Thank you for investing with us. I hope you find this information useful and look forward to keeping you informed.
Sincerely,
J. Christopher Donahue, President
         


Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (unaudited)
The total return of Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund (the “Fund”), based on net asset value, for the 12-month reporting period ended July 31, 2020, was 9.08% for Class A Shares, 8.25% for Class C Shares, 9.33% for Institutional Shares and 9.26% for Class R6 Shares. Over the same period, the Fund’s custom blended benchmark (“Blended Index”),1 which consists of a 60%/40% blend of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index (S&P 500),2 and the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index (BAB),3 returned 11.84%. The total return of the Morningstar Allocation 50% - 70% Equity Category Average (MA50-70),4 a peer group average for the Fund, was 5.43% during the period. The Fund’s and the MA50-70’s total return for the most recently completed fiscal year reflected actual cash flows, transaction costs and other expenses, which were not reflected in the total return of the Blended Index.
During the reporting period, the Fund’s investment strategy focused on security selection within the domestic equity and Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) segments of the portfolio, sector allocation within the fixed-income segment of the portfolio, and overall asset allocation. These were the most significant factors affecting the Fund’s performance relative to the Blended Index during the period.
The following discussion will focus on the performance of the Fund’s Institutional Shares relative to the Blended Index.
MArket Overview
The twelve months of this reporting period, culminating with the COVID-19 pandemic, saw huge volatility in the domestic market. Despite the dramatic decline and recovery in the first half of 2020, the whole market Russell 3000® Index5 was up 10.93% for the full period. However, looking more deeply at the subindexes revealed the wildness of the market. Large caps dominated small caps:6 the mega-cap Russell Top 200® Index7 returned 15.84%, while the Russell Midcap® Index8 returned 2.04% and the small-cap Russell 2000® Index9 returned -5.57%. In addition, once again, growth dominated value: the Russell 3000® Growth Index10 returned 28.24% while the Russell 3000® Value Index11 returned -6.67%.
International equities12 in developed markets underperformed the domestic equity market during the reporting period with the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Europe, Australasia and Far East (EAFE) Index13 returning -1.67%. Emerging market14 equity results were modestly better, with the MSCI Emerging Markets Index15 returning 6.55%.
Interest rates decreased across the maturity spectrum during the period, while investment-grade credit spreads, despite some significant volatility, finished roughly flat leading to a positive result for the BAB, which returned 10.12%.16
Annual Shareholder Report
1

EQUITIES
Domestic equity investments finished ahead of their benchmark, the Russell 3000® Index, during the period. Investments in the Information Technology, Industrials and Energy sectors were the most significant positive factors, while investments in the Healthcare and Consumer Discretionary sectors were the most significant negative contributors to relative results.
FIXED INCOME
During the reporting period, the fixed-income portion of the portfolio outperformed the BAB. Sector allocation made the most significant positive contribution to relative performance with security selection also contributing. An overweight relative position in Treasury Inflation Protected Securities also contributed positively late in the period.
ASSET ALLOCATION
Although the performance differential between equities and fixed income was marginal over the entire period, a larger overweight to equities during the volatile period early in 2020 and smaller relative overweight to equities during the rapid recovery in the second quarter of the year hurt Fund performance.
REITS
REIT investments finished ahead of their benchmark, the MSCI US REIT Index,17 during the reporting period. An overweight position in shares of companies in the Industrial sector and underweight position in shares of companies in the Retail sector were the most significant positive factors in the Fund’s relative results.
1 The Fund’s Blended Index, which reflects 60% of the S&P 500 and 40% of the BAB, is being used for comparison purposes because, although it is not the Fund’s broad-based securities market index, the Fund’s Adviser believes it is more reflective of the Fund’s balanced investment style.
2 Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the S&P 500 Index, one of the Fund’s broad-based securities market indices. The S&P 500’s return for the 12-month reporting period was 11.96%.
3 Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the BAB, one of the Fund’s broad-based securities market indices. The BAB’s return for the 12-month reporting period was 10.12%.
4 Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the MA50-70.
5 The Russell 3000® Index measures the performance of the largest 3,000 U.S. companies representing approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equity market. The Russell 3000® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased, and stable barometer of the broad market and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected.*
6 Small-cap stocks may be less liquid and subject to greater price volatility than large-cap stocks.
Annual Shareholder Report
2

7 The Russell Top 200® Index measures the performance of the largest cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell Top 200® Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index. It includes approximately 200 of the largest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership and represents approximately 68% of the U.S. market. The Russell Top 200® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for this very large cap segment and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected.*
8 The Russell Midcap® Index measures the performance of the mid-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell Midcap® Index is a subset of the Russell 1000® Index. It includes approximately 800 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The Russell Midcap® Index represents approximately 31% of the total market capitalization of the Russell 1000® companies. The Russell Midcap® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for the mid-cap segment. The Russell Midcap Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true mid-cap opportunity set.*
9 The Russell 2000® Index measures the performance of the small-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell 2000® Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index representing approximately 10% of the total market capitalization of that index. It includes approximately 2000 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The Russell 2000® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased small-cap barometer and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true small-cap opportunity set.*
10 The Russell 3000® Growth Index measures the performance of the broad growth segment of the U.S. equity universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. The Russell 3000® Growth Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad growth market. The Russell 3000® Growth Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect growth characteristics.*
11 The Russell 3000® Value Index measures the performance of the broad value segment of U.S. equity value universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. The Russell 3000® Value Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad value market. The Russell 3000® Value Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect value characteristics.*
12 International investing involves special risks including currency risk, increased volatility of foreign securities, political risks and differences in auditing and other financial standards.
13 The MSCI US EAFE Index measures international equity performance. It comprises 22 MSCI country indices, representing the developed markets outside of North America.*
14 Prices of emerging markets securities can be significantly more volatile than the prices of securities in developed countries, and currency risks and political risks are accentuated in emerging markets.
15 The MSCI Emerging Markets Index is an unmanaged index consisting of 21 emerging market countries.*
16 Bond prices are sensitive to changes in interest rates and a rise in interest rates can cause a decline in their prices.
17 The MSCI REIT Index is a free float-adjusted market capitalization weighted index that is comprised of equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). The index is based on the MSCI USA Investable Market Index (IMI), its parent index, which captures the large, mid and small cap segments of the USA market.*
* The index is unmanaged, and it is not possible to invest directly in an index.
Annual Shareholder Report
3

FUND PERFORMANCE AND GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT
The graph below illustrates the hypothetical investment of $10,0001 in the Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund from July 31, 2010 to July 31, 2020, compared to the Standard and Poor’s 500 Index (S&P 500),2 the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index (BAB),3 60% S&P 500/40% BAB (Blended Index) and the Morningstar Allocation-50% to 70% Equity Funds Average (MA50-70).4 The Average Annual Total Return table below shows returns for each class averaged over the stated periods.
Growth of a $10,000 Investment
Growth of $10,000 as of July 31, 2020
■  Total returns shown for Class C Shares include the maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% as applicable.
    
The Fund offers multiple share classes whose performance may be greater than or less than its other share class(es) due to differences in sales charges and expenses. See the Average Annual Total Return table below for the returns of additional classes not shown in the line graph above.
Annual Shareholder Report
4

Average Annual Total Returns for the Periods Ended 7/31/2020
(returns reflect all applicable sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges as specified below in footnote #1)
  1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
Class A Shares 3.07% 5.71% 8.10%
Class C Shares 7.25% 6.12% 7.90%
Institutional Shares 9.33% 7.19% 8.98%
Class R6 Shares5 9.26% 7.07% 8.58%
S&P 500 11.96% 11.49% 13.84%
BAB 10.12% 4.47% 3.87%
Blended Index 11.84% 8.93% 10.01%
MA50-70 5.43% 5.81% 7.76%
    
Performance data quoted represents past performance which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Mutual fund performance changes over time and current performance may be lower or higher than what is stated. For current to the most recent month-end performance and after-tax returns, visit FederatedInvestors.com or call 1-800-341-7400. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Mutual funds are not obligations of or guaranteed by any bank and are not federally insured.
1 Represents a hypothetical investment of $10,000 in the Fund after deducting applicable sales charges: for Class A Shares, the maximum sales charge of 5.50% ($10,000 investment minus $550 sales charge = $9,450); for Class C Shares, a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge would be applied on any redemption less than one year from the purchase date. The Fund’s performance assumes the reinvestment of all dividends and distributions. The S&P 500, BAB and MA50-70 have been adjusted to reflect reinvestment of dividends on securities in the indexes.
2 The S&P 500 Index, a broad-based securities market index of the Fund, is an unmanaged capitalization-weighted index of 500 stocks designed to measure performance of the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks representing all major industries. The S&P 500 is unmanaged and, unlike the Fund, is not affected by cash flows. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. The S& P 500 is not adjusted to reflect sales charges, expenses or other fees that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) requires to be reflected in the Fund’s performance.
3 The BAB Index, a broad-based securities market index of the Fund, is a broad-based benchmark that measures the investment-grade, U.S. dollar-denominated, fixed-rate taxable bond market. The BAB is unmanaged and, unlike the Fund, is not affected by cash flows. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. The BAB is not adjusted to reflect sales charges, expenses or other fees that the SEC requires to be reflected in the Fund’s performance.
Annual Shareholder Report
5

4 Morningstar figures represent the average of the total returns reported by all the funds designated by Morningstar as falling into the respective category indicated. They do not reflect sales charges. The Morningstar figures in the Growth of $10,000 line graph are based on historical return information published by Morningstar and reflect the return of the funds comprising the category in the year of publication. Because the funds designated by Morningstar as falling into the category can change over time, the Morningstar figures in the line graph may not match the Morningstar figures in the Average Annual Total Returns table, which reflect the return of the funds that currently comprise the category.
5 Prior to September 1, 2016, Class R6 Shares were known as Class R Shares and included 12b-1 fees and certain other expenses. As of September 1, 2016, Class R6 does not include such 12b-1 fees and certain other expenses, and the performance shown above for Class R6 prior to September 1, 2016, reflects the higher Class R expenses.
Annual Shareholder Report
6

Portfolio of Investments Summary Tables (unaudited)
At July 31, 2020, the Fund’s portfolio composition1 was as follows:
Security Type Percentage of
Total Net Assets
Domestic Equity Securities 54.6%
Corporate Debt Securities 15.2%
International Equity Securities (including International Exchange-Traded Funds) 8.0%
Federated Mortgage Core Portfolio 6.9%
High Yield Bond Portfolio 2.3%
Emerging Markets Core Fund 1.9%
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities 1.8%
Federated Bank Loan Core Fund 1.6%
Project and Trade Finance Core Fund 1.5%
U.S. Treasury Securities2 1.0%
Municipal Bonds 0.6%
Mortgage-Backed Securities 0.5%
Asset-Backed Securities 0.5%
Government Agency 0.2%
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations 0.0%3
Securities Lending Collateral4 0.9%
Derivative Contracts5 0.0%3
Cash Equivalents6 3.3%
Other Assets and Liabilities—Net7 (0.8)%
TOTAL 100.0%
1 See the Fund’s Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information for a description of the types of securities in which the Fund invests. As of the date specified above, the Fund owned shares of one or more affiliated investment companies. For purposes of this table, affiliated investment companies (other than an affiliated money market mutual fund) in which the Fund invested less than 10% of its net assets, are listed individually in the table.
2 Includes U.S. Treasuries pledged as collateral to ensure the Fund is able to satisfy the obligations of its outstanding futures contracts.
3 Represents less than 0.1%.
4 Represents cash collateral received for portfolio securities on loan that may be invested in affiliated money market funds, other money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements.
5 Based upon net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) or value of the derivative contracts as applicable. Derivative contracts may consist of futures, forwards, options and swaps. The impact of a derivative contract on the Fund’s performance may be larger than its unrealized appreciation (depreciation) or value may indicate. In many cases, the notional value or amount of a derivative contract may provide a better indication of the contract’s significance to the portfolio. More complete information regarding the Fund’s direct investments in derivative contracts, including unrealized appreciation (depreciation), value and notional values or amounts of such contracts, can be found in the table at the end of the Portfolio of Investments included in this Report.
6 Cash Equivalents include any investments in money market mutual funds and/or overnight repurchase agreements other than those representing cash collateral for securities lending.
7 Assets, other than investments in securities and derivative contracts, less liabilities. See Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
   
Annual Shareholder Report
7

At July 31, 2020, the Fund’s sector composition8 for its equity securities (excluding exchange-traded funds) was as follows:
Sector Composition Percentage of
Equity Securities
Information Technology 26.2%
Health Care 14.6%
Consumer Discretionary 12.0%
Financials 10.9%
Communication Services 9.3%
Industrials 8.2%
Consumer Staples 7.3%
Real Estate 5.1%
Materials 2.6%
Utilities 2.0%
Energy 1.8%
TOTAL 100.0%
8 Sector classifications are based upon, and individual portfolio securities are assigned to, the classifications of the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) except that the Adviser assigns a classification to securities not classified by the GICS and to securities for which the Adviser does not have access to the classification made by the GICS.
Annual Shareholder Report
8

Portfolio of Investments
July 31, 2020
Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    COMMON STOCKS—55.1%  
    Communication Services—5.2%  
4,243   Activision Blizzard, Inc. $350,599
2,376 1 Alphabet, Inc., Class A 3,535,369
429   Cable One, Inc. 781,878
21,112 1 Cars.com, Inc. 171,429
6,754   CenturyLink, Inc. 65,176
14,105   Cogent Communications Holdings, Inc. 1,271,002
1,550 1 Facebook, Inc. 393,189
28,128 1 MSG Networks, Inc. 268,060
5,694   Meredith Corp. 81,766
942 1 Netflix, Inc. 460,525
18,917 1 TripAdvisor, Inc. 382,691
14,027   Verizon Communications, Inc. 806,272
    TOTAL 8,567,956
    Consumer Discretionary—6.6%  
1,029 1 Amazon.com, Inc. 3,256,456
3,994 1 American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. 28,198
214 1 AutoZone, Inc. 258,388
5,653 1 Cooper-Standard Holding, Inc. 60,544
860   Dollar General Corp. 163,744
4,465   Domino’s Pizza, Inc. 1,726,214
11,226   eBay, Inc. 620,573
1,947 1 Etsy, Inc. 230,486
24,635   Ford Motor Co. 162,837
2,558 1 G-III Apparel Group Ltd. 25,298
1,931   Garmin Ltd. 190,377
15,297   Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. 137,826
3,583   Home Depot, Inc. 951,251
6,086   Lowe’s Cos., Inc. 906,266
122 1 Lululemon Athletica, Inc. 39,722
74,144 2 Macy’s, Inc. 449,313
1,007   McDonald’s Corp. 195,640
2,445 1 Mohawk Industries, Inc. 195,233
431 1 O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. 205,751
160 1 Ulta Beauty, Inc. 30,878
Annual Shareholder Report
9

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Consumer Discretionary—continued  
933 1,2 Wayfair, Inc. $248,262
5,695   Wingstop, Inc. 889,844
581   Yum! Brands, Inc. 52,900
    TOTAL 11,026,001
    Consumer Staples—4.0%  
6,096 1 BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. 244,145
6,046   Church and Dwight, Inc. 582,411
3,924   Clorox Co. 928,065
26,545   Colgate-Palmolive Co. 2,049,274
1,430   Hershey Foods Corp. 207,936
10,598   Kimberly-Clark Corp. 1,611,320
5,398   PepsiCo, Inc. 743,089
1,773   Procter & Gamble Co. 232,476
    TOTAL 6,598,716
    Energy—1.0%  
3,965   Arch Resources, Inc. 122,994
3,619   Cimarex Energy Co. 88,521
5,090   Concho Resources, Inc. 267,429
18,106 1,2 Continental Resources, Inc. 313,053
6,263   Devon Energy Corp. 65,699
2,004   EOG Resources, Inc. 93,887
6,773   Helmerich & Payne, Inc. 120,763
21,158   Marathon Oil Corp. 116,157
15,207   PBF Energy, Inc. 131,997
18,653   Peabody Energy Corp. 58,197
3,652   Phillips 66 226,497
1,097   Valero Energy Corp. 61,684
    TOTAL 1,666,878
    Financials—6.0%  
5,354   Aflac, Inc. 190,442
649   Alleghany Corp. 338,986
10,929   Allstate Corp. 1,031,588
339   Ameriprise Financial, Inc. 52,081
992 1 Arch Capital Group Ltd. 30,504
2,285   Bank of New York Mellon Corp. 81,917
109   BlackRock, Inc. 62,676
10,600   Blackstone Mortgage Trust, Inc. 255,142
Annual Shareholder Report
10

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Financials—continued  
13,355   Cincinnati Financial Corp. $1,040,755
295   Everest Re Group Ltd. 64,543
1,122   Globe Life, Inc. 89,311
17,749   Huntington Bancshares, Inc. 164,533
9,270   Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. 897,151
3,042   MSCI, Inc., Class A 1,143,731
1,320   Marketaxess Holdings, Inc. 682,044
1,975   MetLife, Inc. 74,754
4,729   NASDAQ, Inc. 620,965
2,617   Northern Trust Corp. 205,042
5,529   Prudential Financial, Inc. 350,373
1,761   Reinsurance Group of America 150,125
917   Selective Insurance Group, Inc. 49,830
1,311   State Street Corp. 83,629
18,817   The Travelers Cos., Inc. 2,153,041
6,265   Zions Bancorporation, N.A. 203,424
    TOTAL 10,016,587
    Health Care—8.0%  
803   Abbott Laboratories 80,814
575   AbbVie, Inc. 54,573
1,997 1 Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 204,673
2,138 1 Allogene Therapeutics, Inc. 78,400
3,941   Amgen, Inc. 964,244
11,533 1 AnaptysBio, Inc. 207,133
906   Anthem, Inc. 248,063
1,623 1 Arcus Biosciences, Inc. 31,941
3,231 1 Biogen, Inc. 887,523
1,819 1 Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Co. Ltd. 116,489
1,247   CIGNA Corp. 215,344
3,813   CVS Health Corp. 239,990
361   Cerner Corp. 25,071
15,524 1,2 Community Health Systems, Inc. 77,310
2,172 1 Constellation Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 58,405
198   Cooper Cos., Inc. 56,020
3,489 1 Davita, Inc. 304,904
2,758   Dentsply Sirona, Inc. 123,007
5,319   Eli Lilly & Co. 799,392
Annual Shareholder Report
11

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Health Care—continued  
474 1 Emergent BioSolutions, Inc. $52,728
2,364   Gilead Sciences, Inc. 164,369
477 1 Henry Schein, Inc. 32,784
11,295 1 Hologic, Inc. 788,165
1,276   Humana, Inc. 500,766
1,377 1 IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. 547,702
2,525 1 Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC 273,331
7,106   Johnson & Johnson 1,035,771
4,351 1,2 Livongo Health, Inc. 553,665
372   Medtronic PLC 35,891
13,595   Merck & Co., Inc. 1,090,863
413 1 Molina Healthcare, Inc. 76,281
7,854 1 Myriad Genetics, Inc. 94,798
2,796   Pfizer, Inc. 107,590
6,969 1 SAGE Therapeutics, Inc. 317,577
229 1 United Therapeutics Corp. 25,527
481   UnitedHealth Group, Inc. 145,637
275   Universal Health Services, Inc., Class B 30,222
3,623 1 Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 985,456
3,469 1 Waters Corp. 739,417
6,704   Zoetis, Inc. 1,016,863
    TOTAL 13,388,699
    Industrials—4.5%  
2,875   AGCO Corp. 188,686
1,328 1 Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. 69,162
978   Brinks Co. (The) 43,374
7,124 1 CIRCOR International, Inc. 186,791
869   Curtiss Wright Corp. 77,445
1,162   Deluxe Corp. 32,803
2,437   Flowserve Corp. 67,919
19,553   Fluor Corp. 199,245
3,828   Hexcel Corp. 142,784
1,756   Hubbell, Inc. 237,007
1,536   Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. 266,819
118,888   KAR Auction Services, Inc. 1,798,776
1,586   Lockheed Martin Corp. 601,047
4,178   Masco Corp. 238,815
Annual Shareholder Report
12

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Industrials—continued  
10,000   Pitney Bowes, Inc. $33,400
3,596   Republic Services, Inc. 313,751
7,730 1 SPX Corp. 324,660
43,219   Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc., Class A 845,796
1,133   TransUnion 101,483
6,644   Verisk Analytics, Inc. 1,253,789
447   W.W. Grainger, Inc. 152,664
4,590   Xylem, Inc. 334,978
    TOTAL 7,511,194
    Information Technology—14.4%  
3,302 1 Adobe, Inc. 1,467,145
1,827   Alliance Data Systems Corp. 81,046
757   Analog Devices, Inc. 86,941
6,124   Apple, Inc. 2,602,945
6,309   Applied Materials, Inc. 405,858
1,534 1 Autodesk, Inc. 362,684
6,808   Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp. 556,622
1,401   Broadcom, Inc. 443,767
18,281 1 Cadence Design Systems, Inc. 1,997,199
4,701 1 Cirrus Logic, Inc. 322,160
570   Citrix Systems, Inc. 81,373
2,144   Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp. 146,478
134 1 Coupa Software, Inc. 41,064
3,449 1 Crowdstrike Holdings, Inc. 390,427
110,250   DXC Technology Co. 1,974,577
9,157 1 DocuSign, Inc. 1,985,512
12,780 1 Dynatrace Holdings LLC 534,587
247 1 FleetCor Technologies, Inc. 63,867
2,216 1 Fortinet, Inc. 306,473
395   Henry Jack & Associates, Inc. 70,428
9,407 1 Inphi Corp. 1,229,119
9,807   Intel Corp. 468,088
302   Intuit, Inc. 92,524
2,469 1 Keysight Technologies, Inc. 246,628
3,271   Mastercard, Inc. 1,009,202
11,281   Microsoft Corp. 2,312,718
151   Monolithic Power Systems 40,017
Annual Shareholder Report
13

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Information Technology—continued  
1,522   NVIDIA Corp. $646,226
688 1 Okta, Inc. 152,034
1,795   Oracle Corp. 99,533
11,674   Paychex, Inc. 839,594
2,944 1 PayPal Holdings, Inc. 577,230
12,572   Plantronics, Inc. 251,314
9,835   Qualcomm, Inc. 1,038,674
41,560   Sabre Corp. 314,194
943 1 Semtech Corp. 52,553
131 1 ServiceNow, Inc. 57,535
1,262 1 Synopsys, Inc. 251,416
8,203   Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. 128,705
4,987   Western Union Co. 121,084
9,197   Xerox Holdings Corp. 153,130
390 1 Zscaler, Inc. 50,642
    TOTAL 24,053,313
    Materials—1.5%  
20,604 1 Alcoa Corp. 267,852
20,255 1 Allegheny Technologies, Inc. 176,016
2,659 1 Berry Global Group, Inc. 132,923
47,282   Chemours Co./The 876,135
1,158 1 Crown Holdings, Inc. 82,890
11,320   Domtar, Corp. 237,607
209   Linde PLC 51,228
316   Martin Marietta Materials 65,469
2,929   PPG Industries, Inc. 315,307
983   Scotts Miracle-Gro Co. 155,874
155   Sherwin-Williams Co. 100,428
    TOTAL 2,461,729
    Real Estate—2.8%  
1,500   Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc. 266,325
12,900   American Homes 4 Rent 374,100
1,550   American Tower Corp. 405,155
9,200   Americold Realty Trust 371,220
4,000   Community Healthcare Trust, Inc. 182,920
20,000   DiamondRock Hospitality Co. 92,400
405   Equinix, Inc. 318,119
Annual Shareholder Report
14

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Real Estate—continued  
4,350   Equity Lifestyle Properties, Inc. $297,192
11,000   Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. 118,580
11,800   Invitation Homes, Inc. 351,876
2,900   ProLogis, Inc. 305,718
2,685 1 Redfin Corp. 111,642
6,700   Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. 314,431
2,300   Sun Communities, Inc. 344,839
12,500   Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. 93,500
4,750   Terreno Realty Corp. 288,610
7,200   VICI Properties, Inc. 156,312
10,500   Weyerhaeuser Co. 292,005
    TOTAL 4,684,944
    Utilities—1.1%  
2,781   Consolidated Edison Co. 213,664
2,108   Evergy, Inc. 136,662
15,792   Exelon Corp. 609,729
277   NextEra Energy, Inc. 77,754
19,281   OGE Energy Corp. 634,345
1,915   Public Service Enterprises Group, Inc. 107,125
    TOTAL 1,779,279
    TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(IDENTIFIED COST $77,903,684)
91,755,296
    ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES—0.5%  
    Auto Receivables—0.2%  
$400,000   Toyota Auto Receivables Owner Trust 2020-B, Class A4, 1.660%, 9/15/2025 409,004
    Equipment Lease—0.3%  
500,000   HPEFS Equipment Trust 2020-2A, Class C, 2.000%, 7/22/2030 501,845
    TOTAL ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES
(IDENTIFIED COST $899,854)
910,849
    COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS—0.0%  
243 3 Bear Stearns Mortgage Securities, Inc. 1997-6, Class 1A, 6.294%, 3/25/2031 233
528   Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Series 1311, Class K, 7.000%, 7/15/2022 554
612   Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Series 1384, Class D, 7.000%, 9/15/2022 643
3,144   Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Series 2497, Class JH, 6.000%, 9/15/2032 3,587
Annual Shareholder Report
15

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS—continued  
$2,035 4 Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC, Series 1993-113, Class SB, 9.749% (10-year Constant Maturity Treasury +48.285%), Maximum Rate 9.749%, 7/25/2023 $2,178
715   Federal National Mortgage Association REMIC, Series 2003-35, Class UC, 3.750%, 5/25/2033 756
    TOTAL COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS
(IDENTIFIED COST $7,539)
7,951
    COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES—1.8%  
    Commercial Mortgage—1.8%  
190,000   Bank, Class A4, 3.488%, 11/15/2050 215,808
200,000   Citigroup Commercial Mortgage Trust 2013-GC11, Class B, 3.732%, 4/10/2046 206,087
70,000   Commercial Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates 2012-CR1, Class AM, 3.912%, 5/15/2045 72,347
125,000   Commercial Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates 2012-CR1, Class B, 4.612%, 5/15/2045 112,254
200,000   Commercial Mortgage Trust 2013-CR8, Class B, 3.951%, 6/10/2046 205,770
200,000   Commercial Mortgage Trust 2014-LC17, Class B, 4.490%, 10/10/2047 214,368
300,000   Commercial Mortgage Trust 2015-DC1, Class AM, 3.724%, 2/10/2048 320,478
200,000   FREMF Mortgage Trust 2013-K25 REMIC, Class B, 3.619%, 11/25/2045 209,329
63,614   Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Series K055, Class A1, 2.263%, 4/25/2025 65,937
398,700   Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Series K106, Class A1, 1.783%, 5/25/2029 422,008
6,075   Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Series K504, Class A2, 2.566%, 9/25/2020 6,078
350,000   Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. REMIC, Series K737, Class A2, 2.530%, 10/25/2026 384,548
100,000   GS Mortgage Securities Corp. II 2012-GCJ7, Class AS, 4.085%, 5/10/2045 103,054
200,000   JPMDB Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust 2016-C4, Class A3, 3.141%, 12/15/2049 220,244
50,000   JPMDB Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust 2017-C5, Class A5, 3.693%, 3/15/2050 56,886
100,000   Morgan Stanley Capital I 2012-C4, Class AS, 3.773%, 3/15/2045 101,721
25,000   WF-RBS Commercial Mortgage Trust 2012-C6, Class B, 4.697%, 4/15/2045 25,691
    TOTAL COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES
(IDENTIFIED COST $2,840,631)
2,942,608
Annual Shareholder Report
16

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—15.2%  
    Basic Industry - Chemicals—0.0%  
$10,000   DuPont de Nemours, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.766%, 11/15/2020 $10,095
10,000   DuPont de Nemours, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.319%, 11/15/2038 13,335
    TOTAL 23,430
    Basic Industry - Metals & Mining—0.2%  
15,000   Anglogold Ashanti Holdings PLC, Sr. Note, 6.500%, 4/15/2040 17,850
62,000   Carpenter Technology Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.450%, 3/1/2023 63,715
40,000   Carpenter Technology Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.200%, 7/15/2021 41,296
100,000   Reliance Steel & Aluminum Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.500%, 4/15/2023 107,834
20,000   Southern Copper Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 6.750%, 4/16/2040 29,480
    TOTAL 260,175
    Basic Industry - Paper—0.0%  
10,000   Weyerhaeuser Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.250%, 3/15/2023 10,567
    Capital Goods - Aerospace & Defense—0.5%  
275,000   Boeing Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.875%, 5/1/2025 297,324
11,000   Embraer Overseas Ltd., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 5.696%, 9/16/2023 11,041
110,000   Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 3.844%, 5/1/2025 122,324
170,000   Leidos, Inc., Unsecd. Note, 144A, 3.625%, 5/15/2025 188,379
10,000   Raytheon Technologies Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 3.100%, 11/15/2021 10,251
15,000   Spirit AeroSystems, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.600%, 6/15/2028 11,747
40,000 4 Textron Financial Corp., Jr. Sub. Note, 144A, 2.127% (3-month USLIBOR +1.735%), 2/15/2042 26,468
50,000   Textron, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.000%, 3/15/2026 54,494
50,000   Textron, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.300%, 3/1/2024 53,882
    TOTAL 775,910
    Capital Goods - Building Materials—0.2%  
200,000   Allegion US Holdings Co., Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.200%, 10/1/2024 212,914
80,000   Masco Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.375%, 4/1/2026 93,784
    TOTAL 306,698
    Capital Goods - Construction Machinery—0.0%  
10,000   CNH Industrial Capital America LLC, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.375%, 4/5/2022 10,512
Annual Shareholder Report
17

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—continued  
    Capital Goods - Diversified Manufacturing—0.2%  
$30,000   General Electric Capital Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series GMTN, 3.100%, 1/9/2023 $31,648
60,000   Lennox International, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 1.700%, 8/1/2027 60,784
175,000   Roper Technologies, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.000%, 6/30/2030 182,804
15,000   Thomas & Betts Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.625%, 11/15/2021 15,949
    TOTAL 291,185
    Communications - Cable & Satellite—0.1%  
145,000   Comcast Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.800%, 1/15/2051 158,191
15,000   Comcast Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.900%, 3/1/2038 18,795
10,000   Comcast Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.400%, 8/15/2035 13,004
    TOTAL 189,990
    Communications - Media & Entertainment—0.3%  
30,000   Grupo Televisa S.A., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 6.125%, 1/31/2046 39,693
20,000   Omnicom Group, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.625%, 5/1/2022 21,099
400,000   ViacomCBS, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.750%, 5/15/2025 460,956
    TOTAL 521,748
    Communications - Telecom Wireless—0.7%  
400,000   Crown Castle International Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.250%, 1/15/2051 449,918
150,000   Crown Castle International Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.700%, 6/15/2026 171,530
200,000   Vodafone Group PLC, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.250%, 9/17/2050 247,822
200,000   Vodafone Group PLC, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.875%, 6/19/2049 264,811
    TOTAL 1,134,081
    Communications - Telecom Wirelines—0.5%  
300,000   AT&T, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.650%, 6/1/2051 328,790
5,000   AT&T, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.500%, 5/15/2035 6,024
10,000   AT&T, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.250%, 3/1/2037 12,927
10,000   AT&T, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.700%, 3/1/2057 14,510
150,000   Telefonica Emisiones SAU, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.520%, 3/1/2049 204,584
90,000   Verizon Communications, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.150%, 3/22/2030 103,519
90,000   Verizon Communications, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.150%, 3/15/2024 100,940
25,000   Verizon Communications, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.250%, 3/16/2037 35,299
    TOTAL 806,593
Annual Shareholder Report
18

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—continued  
    Consumer Cyclical - Automotive—0.2%  
$10,000   DaimlerChrysler North America Holding Corp., Company Guarantee, 8.500%, 1/18/2031 $15,466
200,000   Ford Motor Credit Co. LLC, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.336%, 3/18/2021 200,750
160,000   General Motors Financial Co., Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.200%, 7/6/2021 162,645
10,000   General Motors Financial Co., Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.950%, 4/13/2024 10,670
    TOTAL 389,531
    Consumer Cyclical - Leisure—0.0%  
66,707   Football Trust V, Pass Thru Cert., 5.350%, 10/5/2020 67,045
    Consumer Cyclical - Lodging—0.0%  
20,000   American Campus Communities Operating Partnership LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.125%, 7/1/2024 21,283
30,000   Hyatt Hotels Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.375%, 7/15/2023 30,258
    TOTAL 51,541
    Consumer Cyclical - Retailers—0.4%  
50,000   Advance Auto Parts, Inc., 4.500%, 12/1/2023 55,218
170,000   AutoNation, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.750%, 6/1/2030 197,326
250,000   AutoZone, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.250%, 4/15/2025 276,121
15,000   CVS Health Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.700%, 3/9/2023 16,149
15,000   CVS Health Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.100%, 3/25/2025 17,058
10,000   O’Reilly Automotive, Inc., Company Guarantee, 4.875%, 1/14/2021 10,083
10,000   WalMart Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.625%, 4/1/2040 15,582
    TOTAL 587,537
    Consumer Cyclical - Services—0.3%  
200,000   Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.800%, 6/6/2023 212,908
125,000   Amazon.com, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.800%, 12/5/2024 141,958
25,000   Cintas Corp. No. 2, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.300%, 6/1/2021 25,776
15,000   Expedia Group, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series WI, 3.250%, 2/15/2030 14,204
65,000   Expedia, Inc., Company Guarantee, 5.950%, 8/15/2020 65,052
10,000   University of Southern California, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.250%, 10/1/2111 16,645
70,000   Visa, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.150%, 12/14/2025 79,001
15,000   Visa, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.150%, 12/14/2035 20,046
    TOTAL 575,590
Annual Shareholder Report
19

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—continued  
    Consumer Non-Cyclical - Food/Beverage—1.0%  
$30,000   Anheuser-Busch Cos LLC/Anheuser-Busch InBev Worldwide, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.700%, 2/1/2036 $36,904
85,000   Campbell Soup Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.375%, 4/24/2030 90,212
300,000   Danone SA, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 2.947%, 11/2/2026 335,223
140,000   Flowers Foods, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.500%, 10/1/2026 151,393
80,000   General Mills, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.700%, 4/17/2048 115,788
270,000   Heineken NV, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 3.500%, 1/29/2028 310,735
200,000   Kerry Group Financial Services, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 3.200%, 4/9/2023 210,537
15,000   Kraft Heinz Foods Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.200%, 7/15/2045 17,131
50,000   Mead Johnson Nutrition Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.125%, 11/15/2025 58,544
295,000   PepsiCo, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.625%, 3/19/2050 385,571
    TOTAL 1,712,038
    Consumer Non-Cyclical - Health Care—0.2%  
135,000   Agilent Technologies, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.750%, 9/15/2029 147,979
15,000   Agilent Technologies, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.200%, 10/1/2022 15,743
180,000   Dentsply Sirona, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.250%, 6/1/2030 197,314
10,000   Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.750%, 8/23/2022 10,567
    TOTAL 371,603
    Consumer Non-Cyclical - Pharmaceuticals—0.5%  
500,000   AbbVie, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 4.250%, 11/21/2049 642,039
15,000   Amgen, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.400%, 5/1/2045 20,095
10,000   Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series WI, 4.125%, 6/15/2039 13,391
15,000   Johnson & Johnson, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.550%, 3/1/2036 18,747
165,000   Zoetis, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.000%, 5/15/2050 187,528
    TOTAL 881,800
    Consumer Non-Cyclical - Supermarkets—0.0%  
10,000   Kroger Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.450%, 2/1/2047 13,096
    Energy - Independent—0.3%  
250,000   Canadian Natural Resources Ltd., 3.900%, 2/1/2025 273,194
125,000   Cimarex Energy Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.900%, 5/15/2027 127,565
20,000   EQT Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.900%, 10/1/2027 18,892
    TOTAL 419,651
Annual Shareholder Report
20

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—continued  
    Energy - Integrated—0.7%  
$135,000   BP Capital Markets America, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.119%, 5/4/2026 $150,665
20,000   BP Capital Markets America, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.224%, 4/14/2024 21,661
300,000   BP Capital Markets America, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.937%, 9/21/2028 353,744
5,000   ConocoPhillips, Company Guarantee, 6.500%, 2/1/2039 7,844
270,000   Exxon Mobil Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.992%, 3/19/2025 297,349
75,000   Husky Energy, Inc., 4.000%, 4/15/2024 78,790
240,000   Husky Energy, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.400%, 4/15/2029 252,628
    TOTAL 1,162,681
    Energy - Midstream—0.5%  
20,000   Energy Transfer Operating, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.500%, 6/1/2027 22,069
115,000   Energy Transfer Partners LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.050%, 3/15/2025 121,233
75,000   Energy Transfer Partners LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.900%, 2/1/2024 80,339
10,000   Energy Transfer Partners LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 6.125%, 12/15/2045 10,438
170,000   Enterprise Products Operating LLC, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.950%, 2/15/2027 193,947
20,000   Kinder Morgan Energy Partners LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 6.950%, 1/15/2038 27,899
40,000   MPLX LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.125%, 3/1/2027 43,736
5,000   MPLX LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.500%, 4/15/2038 5,332
225,000   MPLX LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.500%, 2/15/2049 269,922
20,000   Texas Eastern Transmission LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 2.800%, 10/15/2022 20,464
10,000   Western Gas Partners LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.750%, 8/15/2028 10,123
30,000   Williams Partners LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.125%, 11/15/2020 30,028
    TOTAL 835,530
    Energy - Oil Field Services—0.0%  
15,000   Nabors Industries, Inc., Company Guarantee, 5.000%, 9/15/2020 14,942
    Energy - Refining—0.1%  
15,000   HollyFrontier Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.875%, 4/1/2026 16,480
15,000   Marathon Petroleum Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.500%, 4/1/2048 16,819
10,000   Marathon Petroleum Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 6.500%, 3/1/2041 13,099
25,000   Tesoro Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.375%, 10/1/2022 24,854
15,000   Valero Energy Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.350%, 6/1/2028 17,416
    TOTAL 88,668
Annual Shareholder Report
21

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—continued  
    Financial Institution - Banking—2.7%  
$74,000   American Express Co., 2.650%, 12/2/2022 $77,688
250,000   American Express Credit Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 2.250%, 5/5/2021 253,332
300,000   Bank of America Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series GMTN, 3.500%, 4/19/2026 340,464
250,000 4 Bank of America Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 0.946% (3-month USLIBOR +0.650%), 10/1/2021 250,280
10,000   Bank of America Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 3.499%, 5/17/2022 10,235
100,000   Bank of America Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 5.000%, 5/13/2021 103,629
200,000   Bank of America Corp., Sub. Note, Series L, 3.950%, 4/21/2025 224,120
15,000   Bank of America Corp., Sub. Note, Series MTN, 4.200%, 8/26/2024 16,825
15,000   Bank of America Corp., Sub., Series MTN, 4.450%, 3/3/2026 17,344
20,000   Bank of New York Mellon, N.A., 3.400%, 5/15/2024 22,130
200,000   Citigroup, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.700%, 3/30/2021 203,153
40,000   Citigroup, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.876%, 7/24/2023 41,744
15,000   Citigroup, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.142%, 1/24/2023 15,532
250,000   Citigroup, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.300%, 4/27/2025 278,459
170,000   Citigroup, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.400%, 5/1/2026 190,542
15,000   Citigroup, Inc., Sub. Note, 4.450%, 9/29/2027 17,483
25,000   City National Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.250%, 9/15/2020 25,143
30,000   Comerica, Inc., 3.800%, 7/22/2026 32,772
75,000   Fifth Third Bancorp, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.650%, 1/25/2024 82,354
40,000   Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.200%, 2/23/2023 42,555
275,000   Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.625%, 1/22/2023 295,440
150,000   Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 6.250%, 2/1/2041 236,274
10,000 5 JPMorgan Chase & Co., Jr. Sub. Deb., Series X, 6.100%, 10/1/2024 10,547
25,000 5 JPMorgan Chase & Co., Jr. Sub. Note, Series FF, 5.000%, 8/1/2024 25,179
20,000   JPMorgan Chase & Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.559%, 4/23/2024 21,557
15,000   JPMorgan Chase & Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.882%, 7/24/2038 18,711
400,000   JPMorgan Chase & Co., Sub. Note, 3.375%, 5/1/2023 428,707
300,000   Morgan Stanley, 4.300%, 1/27/2045 406,895
120,000   Morgan Stanley, Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series GMTN, 2.500%, 4/21/2021 121,975
15,000   Morgan Stanley, Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series GMTN, 3.125%, 1/23/2023 15,954
Annual Shareholder Report
22

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—continued  
    Financial Institution - Banking—continued  
$15,000   Morgan Stanley, Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series GMTN, 4.000%, 7/23/2025 $17,264
15,000   Morgan Stanley, Sub. Note, Series MTN, 4.100%, 5/22/2023 16,313
65,000   Royal Bank of Canada, Sec. Fac. Bond, 2.100%, 10/14/2020 65,232
10,000   Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC, Sub., 6.000%, 12/19/2023 11,274
10,000   State Street Corp., Sub. Deb., 3.031%, 11/1/2034 11,075
45,000   Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.102%, 1/17/2023 47,857
130,000   Truist Financial Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.900%, 3/3/2021 131,717
250,000   US Bancorp, Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 1.375%, 7/22/2030 253,344
10,000   Wells Fargo & Co., Series MTN, 4.100%, 6/3/2026 11,346
15,000   Wells Fargo & Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.069%, 1/24/2023 15,531
10,000   Westpac Banking Corp., Sub., Series GMTN, 4.322%, 11/23/2031 11,376
    TOTAL 4,419,352
    Financial Institution - Broker/Asset Mgr/Exchange—0.3%  
80,000   Invesco Finance PLC, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.750%, 1/15/2026 89,438
70,000   Nuveen LLC, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 4.000%, 11/1/2028 84,135
305,000   Raymond James Financial, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.650%, 4/1/2030 377,706
13,000   Raymond James Financial, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.625%, 4/1/2024 14,933
15,000   XLIT Ltd., Sub., 4.450%, 3/31/2025 16,942
    TOTAL 583,154
    Financial Institution - Finance Companies—0.4%  
170,000   AerCap Ireland Capital Ltd./AerCap Global Aviation Trust, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.950%, 2/1/2022 171,337
150,000   AerCap Ireland Capital Ltd./AerCap Global Aviation Trust, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.875%, 1/16/2024 152,552
250,000   GE Capital International Funding, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.418%, 11/15/2035 258,685
25,000   Santander UK Group Holdings PLC, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.125%, 1/8/2021 25,294
    TOTAL 607,868
    Financial Institution - Insurance - Life—0.7%  
200,000   Aflac, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.625%, 6/15/2023 218,756
25,000   American International Group, Inc., 4.500%, 7/16/2044 30,932
35,000   American International Group, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.125%, 2/15/2024 39,124
125,000   American International Group, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.200%, 4/1/2028 147,555
Annual Shareholder Report
23

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—continued  
    Financial Institution - Insurance - Life—continued  
$10,000   Lincoln National Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.200%, 3/15/2022 $10,606
275,000   Mass Mutual Global Funding II, 144A, 2.000%, 4/15/2021 278,415
10,000   MetLife, Inc., Jr. Sub. Note, 10.750%, 8/1/2039 16,446
15,000   MetLife, Inc., Jr. Sub. Note, 6.400%, 12/15/2036 18,631
250,000   MetLife, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.600%, 4/10/2024 278,232
15,000   Penn Mutual Life Insurance Co., Sr. Note, 144A, 7.625%, 6/15/2040 22,198
10,000   Principal Financial Group, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.125%, 5/15/2023 10,673
10,000   Principal Financial Group, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.300%, 9/15/2022 10,554
50,000   Prudential Financial, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 6.200%, 11/15/2040 75,478
    TOTAL 1,157,600
    Financial Institution - Insurance - P&C—0.3%  
10,000   Berkshire Hathaway Finance Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.200%, 8/15/2048 13,634
65,000   Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co., Sub. Note, 144A, 9.375%, 8/15/2039 109,744
260,000   Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co., Sub., 144A, 4.350%, 4/30/2050 295,452
    TOTAL 418,830
    Financial Institution - REIT - Apartment—0.2%  
60,000   Camden Property Trust, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.800%, 5/15/2030 66,827
20,000   Post Apartment Homes LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.375%, 12/1/2022 20,933
200,000   UDR, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 2.100%, 8/1/2032 204,728
70,000   UDR, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 2.950%, 9/1/2026 75,552
    TOTAL 368,040
    Financial Institution - REIT - Healthcare—0.1%  
50,000   Healthcare Trust of America, 3.700%, 4/15/2023 52,629
185,000   Welltower, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.700%, 2/15/2027 196,840
    TOTAL 249,469
    Financial Institution - REIT - Office—0.1%  
50,000   Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.900%, 6/15/2023 54,538
70,000   Alexandria Real Estate Equities, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.950%, 1/15/2028 81,689
    TOTAL 136,227
    Financial Institution - REIT - Other—0.1%  
105,000   WP Carey, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.850%, 7/15/2029 113,713
Annual Shareholder Report
24

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—continued  
    Financial Institution - REIT - Other—continued  
$75,000   WP Carey, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.600%, 4/1/2024 $81,757
    TOTAL 195,470
    Financial Institution - REIT - Retail—0.2%  
300,000   Kimco Realty Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.700%, 10/1/2030 310,350
50,000   Kimco Realty Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.400%, 11/1/2022 52,616
    TOTAL 362,966
    Supranational—0.0%  
30,000   Corp Andina De Fomento, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.375%, 6/15/2022 31,684
    Technology—0.8%  
10,000   Apple, Inc., 3.850%, 5/4/2043 13,002
30,000   Apple, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.400%, 5/3/2023 31,730
200,000   Apple, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.950%, 9/11/2049 230,771
20,000   Corning, Inc., Unsecd. Note, 4.750%, 3/15/2042 25,386
240,000   Diamond 1 Finance Corp./Diamond 2 Finance Corp., Sr. Secd. Note, 144A, 6.020%, 6/15/2026 281,568
125,000   Equifax, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.300%, 6/1/2021 126,591
53,000   Fidelity National Information Services, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.500%, 4/15/2023 56,856
110,000   Fiserv, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.500%, 7/1/2029 127,524
70,000   Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.600%, 10/15/2020 70,223
20,000   Ingram Micro, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.000%, 8/10/2022 20,321
265,000   Intel Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.400%, 3/25/2025 298,228
15,000   Microsoft Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.450%, 8/8/2036 18,803
10,000   Verisk Analytics, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.125%, 9/12/2022 10,718
50,000   Verisk Analytics, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.500%, 6/15/2045 74,184
    TOTAL 1,385,905
    Technology Services—0.0%  
5,000   Global Payments, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.200%, 8/15/2029 5,594
    Transportation - Airlines—0.1%  
30,000   Delta Air Lines, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.900%, 10/28/2024 26,054
110,000   Southwest Airlines Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.250%, 5/4/2025 117,931
    TOTAL 143,985
    Transportation - Railroads—0.2%  
50,000   Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corp., Deb., 5.750%, 5/1/2040 75,484
30,000   Kansas City Southern Industries, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.000%, 5/15/2023 31,501
Annual Shareholder Report
25

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—continued  
    Transportation - Railroads—continued  
$225,000   Kansas City Southern Industries, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.125%, 6/1/2026 $244,772
    TOTAL 351,757
    Transportation - Services—0.3%  
15,000   Enterprise Rent-A-Car USA Finance Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 5.625%, 3/15/2042 18,594
20,000   FedEx Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.900%, 2/1/2035 22,812
25,000   Penske Truck Leasing Co. LP & PTL Finance Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 3.650%, 7/29/2021 25,674
70,000   Ryder System, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 2.800%, 3/1/2022 72,304
200,000   Ryder System, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTN, 3.750%, 6/9/2023 215,351
30,000   United Parcel Service, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.125%, 1/15/2021 30,362
125,000   United Parcel Service, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.900%, 4/1/2025 142,869
    TOTAL 527,966
    Utility - Electric—1.4%  
70,000   Consolidated Edison Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series 20B, 3.950%, 4/1/2050 90,181
70,000   Electricite de France SA, Note, 144A, 5.600%, 1/27/2040 95,213
300,000   Electricite de France SA, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 4.500%, 9/21/2028 360,539
140,000   Emera US Finance LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.750%, 6/15/2046 182,376
280,000   Enel Finance International NV, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 144A, 4.625%, 9/14/2025 324,004
170,000   EverSource Energy, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.350%, 3/15/2026 189,521
200,000   Exelon Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.400%, 4/15/2026 226,631
100,000   Exelon Generation Co. LLC, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.250%, 6/15/2022 106,075
10,000   Great Plains Energy, Inc., Note, 4.850%, 6/1/2021 10,259
110,000   National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corp., Sr. Sub. Note, 5.250%, 4/20/2046 118,918
25,000   National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, Series MTNC, 8.000%, 3/1/2032 40,036
250,000   PPL Capital Funding, Inc., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.100%, 5/15/2026 278,427
175,000   Southern Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.250%, 7/1/2026 198,867
40,000   UIL Holdings Corp., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.625%, 10/1/2020 40,152
    TOTAL 2,261,199
    Utility - Natural Gas—0.4%  
50,000   Enbridge Energy Partners LP, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 4.200%, 9/15/2021 51,555
Annual Shareholder Report
26

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    CORPORATE BONDS—continued  
    Utility - Natural Gas—continued  
$65,000   National Fuel Gas Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 3.750%, 3/1/2023 $67,058
445,000   National Fuel Gas Co., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 5.500%, 1/15/2026 481,658
15,000   Sempra Energy, Sr. Unsecd. Note, 2.900%, 2/1/2023 15,856
5,000   TransCanada PipeLines Ltd., Sr. Unsecd. Note, 6.200%, 10/15/2037 7,062
    TOTAL 623,189
    TOTAL CORPORATE BONDS
(IDENTIFIED COST $22,511,566)
25,332,397
    MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES—0.5%  
50,196   Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., Pool G07801, 4.000%, 10/1/2044 54,959
9,695   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool 357761, 5.500%, 5/1/2035 11,293
1,379   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool 728709, 5.500%, 7/1/2033 1,596
40,278   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool 932864, 4.000%, 12/1/2040 44,165
64,575   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool AB7859, 3.500%, 2/1/2043 70,596
46,873   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool AD6938, 4.500%, 6/1/2040 52,398
31,077   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool AQ0945, 3.000%, 11/1/2042 33,423
37,281   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool AT2127, 3.000%, 4/1/2043 40,096
26,167   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool AT7861, 3.000%, 6/1/2028 27,696
58,172   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool BM4388, 4.000%, 8/1/2048 62,587
26,095   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool BM5024, 3.000%, 11/1/2048 27,608
43,728   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool BM5246, 3.500%, 11/1/2048 46,179
35,465   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool CA0833, 3.500%, 12/1/2047 37,487
36,102   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool CA4427, 3.000%, 10/1/2049 38,207
29,801   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool FM0008, 3.500%, 8/1/2049 31,667
56,377   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool FM1000, 3.000%, 4/1/2047 59,718
Annual Shareholder Report
27

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES—continued  
$29,673   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool FM1221, 3.500%, 7/1/2049 $31,762
35,481   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool MA0500, 5.000%, 8/1/2040 40,553
40,928   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool MA0666, 4.500%, 3/1/2041 45,535
44,967   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool MA1430, 3.000%, 5/1/2043 48,362
51,944   Federal National Mortgage Association, Pool MA2803, 2.500%, 11/1/2031 54,634
26,719   Government National Mortgage Association, Pool MA0625, 3.500%, 12/20/2042 29,049
19,768   Government National Mortgage Association, Pool MA1376, 4.000%, 10/20/2043 21,639
    TOTAL MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES
(IDENTIFIED COST $860,957)
911,209
    U.S. TREASURIES—1.0%  
169,921 6 U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Notes, 0.125%, 1/15/2022 172,853
448,443   U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Notes, 0.125%, 1/15/2030 497,329
299,181   U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Notes, 0.250%, 2/15/2050 365,048
137,515   U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Notes, 1.375%, 2/15/2044 199,638
100,000   United States Treasury Bond, 1.250%, 5/15/2050 101,237
50,000   United States Treasury Bond, 4.500%, 2/15/2036 77,923
155,000   United States Treasury Note, 0.625%, 5/15/2030 156,257
25,000   United States Treasury Note, 2.125%, 9/30/2021 25,575
    TOTAL U.S. TREASURIES
(IDENTIFIED COST $1,465,407)
1,595,860
    MUNICIPAL BONDS—0.6%  
200,000   Klein, TX Independent School District, Unlimited Tax Schoolhouse and Refunding Bonds (Series 2020), (GTD by Texas Permanent School Fund Guarantee Program), 5.000%, 8/1/2028 267,466
125,000   Metropolitan Government Nashville & Davidson County, TN, GO Improvement Bonds (Series 2018), 4.000%, 7/1/2028 155,101
200,000   New York State Dormitory Authority State Personal Income Tax Revenue (New York State Personal Income Tax Revenue Bond Fund), State Personal Income Tax Revenue Bonds (Series 2019D), 4.000%, 2/15/2037 239,860
30,000   Texas State Transportation Commission—State Highway Fund, 5.178%, 4/1/2030 38,834
250,000   Washington State, Various Purpose GO Bonds (Series 2020C), 5.000%, 2/1/2044 328,800
    TOTAL MUNICIPAL BONDS
(IDENTIFIED COST $1,006,938)
1,030,061
Annual Shareholder Report
28

Shares or
Principal
Amount
    Value
    EXCHANGE-TRADED FUND—7.5%  
$201,000   iShares MSCI EAFE ETF
(IDENTIFIED COST $13,521,274)
$12,472,050
    GOVERNMENT AGENCY—0.2%  
250,000   Federal National Mortgage Association Notes,
0.625%, 4/22/2025
(IDENTIFIED COST $249,512)
252,458
    INVESTMENT COMPANIES—18.4%  
281,727   Federated Bank Loan Core Fund 2,617,248
324,710   Emerging Markets Core Fund 3,240,602
1,431,638   Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund,
Premier Shares, 0.10%7
1,431,638
5,424,609   Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Institutional Shares, 0.21%7 5,427,864
630,661   High Yield Bond Portfolio 3,878,566
1,139,741   Federated Mortgage Core Fund 11,545,574
289,145   Project and Trade Finance Core Fund 2,538,696
    TOTAL INVESTMENT COMPANIES
(IDENTIFIED COST $30,864,121)
30,680,188
    TOTAL INVESTMENT IN SECURITIES—100.8%
(IDENTIFIED COST $152,131,483)8
167,890,927
    OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES - NET—(0.8)%9 (1,332,334)
    TOTAL NET ASSETS—100% $166,558,593
At July 31, 2020, the Fund had the following outstanding futures contracts:
Description Number of
Contracts
Notional
Value
Expiration
Date
Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
Long Futures        
1United States Treasury Note 2-Year Long Futures 60 $13,259,062 September 2020 $12,000
1United States Treasury Note 10-Year Ultra Long Futures 5 $796,250 September 2020 $13,957
Short Futures        
1United States Treasury Note 5-Year Short Futures 15 $1,891,875 September 2020 $(7,215)
1United States Treasury Note 10-Year Short Futures 2 $280,156 September 2020 $(1,161)
NET UNREALIZED APPRECIATION ON FUTURES CONTRACTS $17,581
Net Unrealized Appreciation on Futures Contracts is included in “Other Assets and Liabilities—Net.”
Annual Shareholder Report
29

[PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]
Annual Shareholder Report
30

Affiliated fund holdings are investment companies which are managed by the Adviser or an affiliate of the Adviser. Transactions involving the affiliated fund holdings during the period ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Affiliates Balance
of
Shares
Held
7/31/2019
Purchases/
Additions
Sales/
Reductions
Federated Bank Loan Core Fund 135,857 270,061 (124,191)
Emerging Markets Core Fund 278,303 352,148 (305,741)
Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund, Premier Shares* 145,972 121,643,726 (120,358,060)
Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Institutional Shares 5,815,511 56,702,873 (57,093,775)
High Yield Bond Portfolio 691,626 663,759 (724,724)
Federated Mortgage Core Fund 1,314,242 1,498,600 (1,673,101)
Project and Trade Finance Core Fund 362,119 88,131 (161,105)
TOTAL OF AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS 8,743,630 181,219,298 (180,440,697)
Annual Shareholder Report
31

Balance
of
Shares
Held
7/31/2020
Value Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation/
Depreciation
Net
Realized
Gain/(Loss)
Dividend
Income
281,727 $2,617,248 $10,490 $(29,846) $81,223
324,710 $3,240,602 $126,234 $8,304 $132,095
1,431,638 $1,431,638 N/A N/A $18,121
5,424,609 $5,427,864 $(649) $7,220 $43,855
630,661 $3,878,566 $90,421 $(7,839) $222,360
1,139,741 $11,545,574 $71,818 $258,658 $375,915
289,145 $2,538,696 $(12,425) $(88,527) $126,295
9,522,231 $30,680,188 $285,889 $147,970 $999,864
* All or a portion of the balance/activity for the fund relates to cash collateral received on securities lending transactions.
1 Non-income-producing security.
2 All or a portion of these securities are temporarily on loan to unaffiliated broker/dealers.
3 JPMorgan Chase & Co. has fully and unconditionally guaranteed Bear Stearns’ outstanding registered debt securities.
4 Floating/variable note with current rate and current maturity or next reset date shown.
5 Perpetual Bond Security. The maturity date reflects the next call date.
6 All or a portion of this security is pledged as collateral to ensure the Fund is able to satisfy the obligations of its outstanding futures contracts.
7 7-day net yield.
8 The cost of investments for federal tax purposes amounts to $152,194,326.
9 Assets, other than investments in securities, less liabilities. See Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
Note: The categories of investments are shown as a percentage of total net assets at July 31, 2020.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
Level 1—quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2—other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). Also includes securities valued at amortized cost.
Level 3—significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
Annual Shareholder Report
32

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of July 31, 2020, in valuing the Fund’s assets carried at fair value:
Valuation Inputs        
  Level 1—
Quoted
Prices
Level 2—
Other
Significant
Observable
Inputs
Level 3—
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
Total
Equity Securities:        
Common Stocks        
 Domestic $90,992,933 $$— $90,992,933
 International 762,363 762,363
Debt Securities:        
Asset-Backed Securities 910,849 910,849
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations 7,951 7,951
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities 2,942,608 2,942,608
Corporate Bonds 25,332,397 25,332,397
Mortgage-Backed Securities 911,209 911,209
U.S. Treasuries 1,595,860 1,595,860
Municipal Bonds 1,030,061 1,030,061
Government Agency 252,458 252,458
Exchange-Traded Fund 12,472,050 12,472,050
Investment Companies1 28,141,492 30,680,188
TOTAL SECURITIES $132,368,838 $32,983,393 $— $167,890,927
Other Financial Instruments2        
Assets $25,957 $$— $25,957
Liabilities (8,376) (8,376)
TOTAL OTHER FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS $17,581 $$— $17,581
1 As permitted by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), an Investment Company valued at $2,538,696 is measured at fair value using the net asset value (NAV) per share practical expedient and has not been categorized in the chart above, but is included in the Total column. The amount included herein is intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value classifications to the amounts presented on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.The price of shares redeemed of Project and Trade Finance Core Fund may be determined as of the closing NAV of the fund up to twenty-four days after receipt of a shareholder redemption request
2 Other financial instruments are futures contracts.
Annual Shareholder Report
33

The following acronyms are used throughout this portfolio:
ETF —Exchange - Traded Fund
FREMF —Freddie Mac Multifamily K-Deals
GMTN —Global Medium Term Note
GO —General Obligation
GTD —Guaranteed
LIBOR —London Interbank Offered Rate
MTN —Medium Term Note
REIT —Real Estate Investment Trust
REMIC —Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
34

Financial HighlightsClass A Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $18.71 $19.59 $17.74 $16.52 $16.83
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income1 0.19 0.25 0.21 0.26 0.24
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 1.46 0.57 1.89 1.23 (0.31)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 1.65 0.82 2.10 1.49 (0.07)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.24) (0.19) (0.25) (0.27) (0.24)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.53) (1.51)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (0.77) (1.70) (0.25) (0.27) (0.24)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $19.59 $18.71 $19.59 $17.74 $16.52
Total Return2 9.08% 5.28% 11.91% 9.11% (0.37)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.31% 1.31% 1.32% 1.26% 1.30%
Net investment income 1.04% 1.35% 1.11% 1.51% 1.51%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.07% 0.08% 0.06% 0.15% 0.10%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $95,559 $84,243 $61,553 $61,405 $61,245
Portfolio turnover 152% 92% 89% 82% 98%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
35

Financial HighlightsClass C Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $18.50 $19.31 $17.49 $16.30 $16.59
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income1 0.05 0.11 0.06 0.13 0.12
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 1.43 0.59 1.87 1.20 (0.31)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 1.48 0.70 1.93 1.33 (0.19)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.10) (0.00)2 (0.11) (0.14) (0.10)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.53) (1.51)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (0.63) (1.51) (0.11) (0.14) (0.10)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $19.35 $18.50 $19.31 $17.49 $16.30
Total Return3 8.25% 4.54% 11.09% 8.23% (1.10)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses4 2.06% 2.06% 2.07% 2.01% 2.05%
Net investment income 0.29% 0.60% 0.35% 0.75% 0.76%
Expense waiver/reimbursement5 0.09% 0.10% 0.04% 0.13% 0.08%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $15,043 $15,492 $27,577 $29,007 $29,152
Portfolio turnover 152% 92% 89% 82% 98%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Represents less than $0.01.
3 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
4 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
36

Financial HighlightsInstitutional Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $18.78 $19.64 $17.79 $16.57 $16.87
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income1 0.24 0.30 0.26 0.30 0.28
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 1.46 0.58 1.89 1.23 (0.30)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 1.70 0.88 2.15 1.53 (0.02)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.28) (0.23) (0.30) (0.31) (0.28)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.53) (1.51)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (0.81) (1.74) (0.30) (0.31) (0.28)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $19.67 $18.78 $19.64 $17.79 $16.57
Total Return2 9.33% 5.61% 12.15% 9.36% (0.07)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.06% 1.06% 1.07% 1.00% 1.05%
Net investment income 1.29% 1.62% 1.35% 1.77% 1.76%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.07% 0.08% 0.02% 0.12% 0.05%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $54,440 $53,035 $54,358 $39,136 $47,757
Portfolio turnover 152% 92% 89% 82% 98%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
37

Financial HighlightsClass R6 Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 20171 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $18.74 $19.62 $17.76 $16.49 $16.80
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income2 0.24 0.27 0.26 0.28 0.20
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 1.44 0.60 1.90 1.24 (0.31)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 1.68 0.87 2.16 1.52 (0.11)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.28) (0.24) (0.30) (0.25) (0.20)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.53) (1.51)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (0.81) (1.75) (0.30) (0.25) (0.20)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $19.61 $18.74 $19.62 $17.76 $16.49
Total Return3 9.26% 5.56% 12.24% 9.32% (0.59)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses4 1.05% 1.05% 1.06% 1.05% 1.56%
Net investment income 1.29% 1.40% 1.36% 1.64% 1.27%
Expense waiver/reimbursement5 0.03% 0.06% 0.02% 0.06% 0.04%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $1,516 $3,165 $12,178 $10,439 $577
Portfolio turnover 152% 92% 89% 82% 98%
1 Effective September 1, 2016, the Fund’s Class R Shares were redesignated as Class R6 Shares.
2 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
3 Based on net asset value.
4 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
38

Statement of Assets and Liabilities
July 31, 2020
Assets:    
Investment in securities, at value including $1,393,833 of securities loaned and $30,680,188 of investment in affiliated holdings* (identified cost $152,131,483)   $167,890,927
Cash denominated in foreign currencies (identified cost $3,315)   3,402
Income receivable   296,519
Income receivable from affiliated holdings   75,691
Receivable for investments sold   133,269
Receivable for shares sold   111,257
Receivable for variation margin on futures contracts   2,331
TOTAL ASSETS   168,513,396
Liabilities:    
Payable for investments purchased $174,405  
Payable for shares redeemed 133,105  
Payable for collateral due to broker for securities lending 1,431,638  
Payable for investment adviser fee (Note 5) 3,105  
Payable for administrative fee (Note 5) 354  
Payable for auditing fees 34,300  
Payable for distribution services fee (Note 5) 9,376  
Payable for other service fees (Notes 2 and 5) 44,799  
Payable for share registration costs 42,199  
Accrued expenses (Note 5) 81,522  
TOTAL LIABILITIES   1,954,803
Net assets for 8,501,729 shares outstanding   $166,558,593
Net Assets Consist of:    
Paid-in capital   $148,508,687
Total distributable earnings (loss)   18,049,906
TOTAL NET ASSETS   $166,558,593
Annual Shareholder Report
39

Statement of Assets and Liabilitiescontinued
Net Asset Value, Offering Price and Redemption Proceeds Per Share    
Class A Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($95,559,269 ÷ 4,878,534 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $19.59
Offering price per share (100/94.50 of $19.59)   $20.73
Redemption proceeds per share   $19.59
Class C Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($15,043,186 ÷ 777,597 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $19.35
Offering price per share   $19.35
Redemption proceeds per share (99.00/100 of $19.35)   $19.16
Institutional Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($54,440,255 ÷ 2,768,314 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $19.67
Offering price per share   $19.67
Redemption proceeds per share   $19.67
Class R6 Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($1,515,883 ÷ 77,284 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $19.61
Offering price per share   $19.61
Redemption proceeds per share   $19.61
* See information listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
40

Statement of Operations
Year Ended July 31, 2020
Investment Income:      
Dividends (including $981,121 received from affiliated holdings* and net of foreign taxes withheld of $846)     $2,684,949
Interest     986,659
Net income on securities loaned (includes $18,743 earned from affiliated holdings* related to cash collateral balances) (Note 2)     26,143
TOTAL INCOME     3,697,751
Expenses:      
Investment adviser fee (Note 5)   $1,179,440  
Administrative fee (Note 5)   128,880  
Custodian fees   57,314  
Transfer agent fees (Note 2)   163,312  
Directors’/Trustees’ fees (Note 5)   2,258  
Auditing fees   34,300  
Legal fees   7,722  
Portfolio accounting fees   104,595  
Distribution services fee (Note 5)   111,375  
Other service fees (Notes 2 and 5)   247,671  
Share registration costs   61,531  
Printing and postage   29,726  
Miscellaneous (Note 5)   31,931  
TOTAL EXPENSES   2,160,055  
Waiver and Reimbursements:      
Waiver/reimbursement of investment adviser fee (Note 5) $(49,944)    
Reimbursement of other operating expenses
(Notes 2 and 5)
(66,021)    
TOTAL WAIVER AND REIMBURSEMENTS   (115,965)  
Net expenses     2,044,090
Net investment income     $1,653,661
Annual Shareholder Report
41

Statement of Operationscontinued
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments, Futures Contracts and Foreign Currency Transactions:      
Net realized gain on investments (including net realized gain of $147,970 on sales of investments in affiliated holdings*) and foreign currency transactions     $3,973,443
Net realized gain on futures contracts     465,553
Net change in unrealized appreciation of investments (including net change in unrealized depreciation of $285,889 of investments in affiliated holdings*)     7,132,217
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation of translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currency     135
Net change in unrealized appreciation of futures contracts     (12,191)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments, futures contracts and foreign currency transactions     11,559,157
Change in net assets resulting from operations     $13,212,818
* See information listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
42

Statement of Changes in Net Assets
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets    
Operations:    
Net investment income $1,653,661 $2,133,076
Net realized gain 4,438,996 7,525,854
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation 7,120,161 (1,859,525)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS 13,212,818 7,799,405
Distributions to Shareholders:    
Class A Shares (3,813,305) (6,723,192)
Class C Shares (539,280) (1,044,348)
Institutional Shares (2,518,867) (5,847,283)
Class R6 Shares (108,342) (242,234)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (6,979,794) (13,857,057)
Share Transactions:    
Proceeds from sale of shares 29,726,646 63,670,084
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from PNC Balanced Allocation Fund 11,298,197
Net asset value of shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 6,622,021 12,933,369
Cost of shares redeemed (43,256,472) (70,276,399)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM SHARE TRANSACTIONS 4,390,392 6,327,054
Change in net assets 10,623,416 269,402
Net Assets:    
Beginning of period 155,935,177 155,665,775
End of period $166,558,593 $155,935,177
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
43

Notes to Financial Statements
July 31, 2020
1. ORGANIZATION
Federated Hermes MDT Series (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust consists of five portfolios. The financial statements included herein are only those of Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund (the “Fund”), a diversified portfolio. The financial statements of the other portfolios are presented separately. The assets of each portfolio are segregated and a shareholder’s interest is limited to the portfolio in which shares are held. Each portfolio pays its own expenses. The Fund offers four classes of shares: Class A Shares, Class C Shares, Institutional Shares and Class R6 Shares. All shares of the Fund have equal rights with respect to voting, except on class-specific matters. The investment objective of the Fund is the possibility of long-term growth of capital and income.
On March 30, 2017, the Fund’s T Share class became effective with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), but is not yet offered for sale.
Effective August 1, 2018, an automatic conversion feature for Class C Shares was implemented. Pursuant to this automatic conversion feature, after Class C Shares have been held for ten years from the date of purchase, they will automatically convert to Class A Shares on the next monthly conversion processing date.
On November 15, 2019, the Fund acquired all of the net assets of PNC Balanced Allocation Fund (the “Acquired Fund”), an open-end investment company, in a tax-free reorganization in exchange for shares of the Fund, pursuant to a plan of reorganization approved by the Acquired Fund’s shareholders on November 5, 2019. The purpose of the transaction was to combine two portfolios with comparable investment objectives and strategies. For financial reporting purposes, assets received and shares issued by the Fund were recorded at fair value; however, the cost basis of the investments received from the Acquired Fund was carried forward to align ongoing reporting of the Fund’s realized gains and losses with amounts distributable to shareholders for tax purposes.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class A Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 0.616 shares of the Fund’s Class A Shares.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class C Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 0.609 shares of the Fund’s Class C Shares.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class Institutional Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 0.610 shares of the Fund’s Institutional Shares.
The Fund received net assets from the Acquired Fund as a result of the tax-free reorganization as follows:
Shares of the
Fund Issued
Acquired Fund’s
Net Assets Received
Unrealized
Appreciation1
Net Assets
of the Fund
Immediately
Prior to
Combination
Net Assets
of the Fund
Immediately
After
Combination
593,132 $11,298,197 $2,170,935 $154,177,771 $165,475,968
1 Unrealized Appreciation is included in the Net Assets Received amount shown above.
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44

Assuming the acquisition had been completed on August 1, 2019, the beginning of the annual reporting period of the Fund, the Fund’s pro forma results of operations for the year ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Net investment income $1,721,772
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments 11,959,769
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations $13,681,541
Because the combined investment portfolios have been managed as a single integrated portfolio since the acquisition was completed, it is not practicable to separate the amounts of revenue and earnings of the Acquired Fund that have been included in the Fund’s Statement of Operations and Statement of Changes, respectively, as of July 31, 2020.
Prior to June 29, 2020, the name of the Trust and Fund was Federated MDT Series and Federated MDT Balanced Fund, respectively.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements. These policies are in conformity with GAAP.
Investment Valuation
In calculating its NAV, the Fund generally values investments as follows:
■  Equity securities listed on an exchange or traded through a regulated market system are valued at their last reported sale price or official closing price in their principal exchange or market.
■  Fixed-income securities are fair valued using price evaluations provided by a pricing service approved by the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the “Trustees”).
■  Shares of other mutual funds or non-exchange-traded investment companies are valued based upon their reported NAVs.
■  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 Trustees.
■  For securities that are fair valued in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Trustees, certain factors may be considered, such as: the last traded or purchase price of the security, information obtained by contacting the issuer or dealers, analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents, fundamental analytical data, the nature and duration of restrictions on disposition, the movement of the market in which the security is normally traded, public trading in similar securities or derivative contracts of the issuer or comparable issuers, movement of a relevant index, or other factors including but not limited to industry changes and relevant government actions.
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 (“Valuation Committee”), is deemed not representative of the fair value of such security, the Fund
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45

uses the fair value of the investment determined in accordance with the procedures 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, and the actual value obtained could be materially different.
Fair Valuation and Significant Events Procedures
The Trustees have ultimate responsibility for determining the fair value of investments for which market quotations are not readily available. The Trustees have appointed a Valuation Committee comprised of officers of the Fund, Federated MDTA LLC (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 Trustees have 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. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for reviewing third-party pricing-service evaluations including periodic reviews of third-party pricing services’ policies, procedures and valuation methods (including key inputs, methods, models and assumptions), transactional back-testing, comparisons of evaluations of different pricing services, and review of price challenges by the Adviser based on recent market activity. 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 Trustees. The Trustees periodically review and approve the fair valuations made by the Valuation Committee and any changes made to the procedures.
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. 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. In the event that market quotations and price evaluations are not available for an investment, the fair value of the investment is determined in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trustees.
The Trustees also have 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 after 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;
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46

■  Announcements concerning matters such as acquisitions, recapitalizations, litigation developments, or a natural disaster affecting the issuer’s operations or regulatory changes or market developments affecting the issuer’s industry.
The Trustees have 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. 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 Fund will determine the fair value of the investment in accordance with the fair valuation procedures approved by the Trustees. The Trustees have ultimate responsibility for any fair valuations made in response to a significant event.
Repurchase Agreements
The Fund may invest in repurchase agreements for short-term liquidity purposes. It is the policy of the Fund to require the other party to a repurchase agreement to transfer to the Fund’s custodian or sub-custodian eligible securities or cash with a market value (after transaction costs) at least equal to the repurchase price to be paid under the repurchase agreement. The eligible securities are transferred to accounts with the custodian or sub-custodian in which the Fund holds a “securities entitlement” and exercises “control” as those terms are defined in the Uniform Commercial Code. The Fund has established procedures for monitoring the market value of the transferred securities and requiring the transfer of additional eligible securities if necessary to equal at least the repurchase price. These procedures also allow the other party to require securities to be transferred from the account to the extent that their market value exceeds the repurchase price or in exchange for other eligible securities of equivalent market value.
The insolvency of the other party or other failure to repurchase the securities may delay the disposition of the underlying securities or cause the Fund to receive less than the full repurchase price. Under the terms of the repurchase agreement, any amounts received by the Fund in excess of the repurchase price and related transaction costs must be remitted to the other party.
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements in which eligible securities are transferred into joint trading accounts maintained by the custodian or sub-custodian for investment companies and other clients advised by the Fund’s Adviser and its affiliates. The Fund will participate on a pro rata basis with the other investment companies and clients in its share of the securities transferred under such repurchase agreements and in its share of proceeds from any repurchase or other disposition of such securities.
Investment Income, Gains and Losses, Expenses and Distributions
Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade-date basis. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are recorded on an identified-cost basis. Interest income and expenses are accrued daily. Dividend income and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Foreign dividends are recorded on the ex-dividend date or when the Fund is informed of the ex-dividend date. Amortization/accretion of premium and discount is included in investment income. Gains and losses realized on principal payment of mortgage-backed securities (paydown gains and losses) are classified as part of investment income. Positive or negative inflation adjustments on Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities are included in interest income. Distributions of net investment income, if any, are declared and paid annually. Non-cash dividends included in dividend income, if any, are recorded at fair value.
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Investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses, and certain fund-level expenses are allocated to each class based on relative average daily net assets, except that select classes will bear certain expenses unique to those classes. The detail of the total fund expense waiver and reimbursements of $115,965 is disclosed in various locations in this Note 2 and Note 5. For the year ended July 31, 2020, transfer agent fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Transfer Agent
Fees Incurred
Transfer Agent
Fees Reimbursed
Class A Shares $96,349 $(36,757)
Class C Shares 16,470 (8,270)
Institutional Shares 49,446 (20,994)
Class R6 Shares 1,047
TOTAL $163,312 $(66,021)
Dividends are declared separately for each class. No class has preferential dividend rights; differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses.
Other Service Fees
The Fund may pay other service fees up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A Shares and Class C Shares to unaffiliated financial intermediaries or to Federated Shareholder Services Company (FSSC) for providing services to shareholders and maintaining shareholder accounts. Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FSSC may voluntarily reimburse the Fund for other service fees. For the year ended July 31, 2020, other service fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Other Service
Fees Incurred
Class A Shares $210,546
Class C Shares 37,125
TOTAL $247,671
Federal Taxes
It is the Fund’s policy to comply with the Subchapter M provision of the Internal Revenue Code and to distribute to shareholders each year substantially all of its income. Accordingly, no provision for federal income tax is necessary. As of and during the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund did not have a liability for any uncertain tax positions. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to tax liabilities as income tax expense in the Statement of Operations. As of July 31, 2020, tax years 2017 through 2020 remain subject to examination by the Fund’s major tax jurisdictions, which include the United States of America and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
The Fund may be subject to taxes imposed by governments of countries in which it invests. Such taxes are generally based on either income or gains earned or repatriated. The Fund accrues and applies such taxes to net investment income, net realized gains and net unrealized gains as income and/or gains are earned.
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When-Issued and Delayed-Delivery Transactions
The Fund may engage in when-issued or delayed-delivery transactions. The Fund records when-issued securities on the trade date and maintains security positions such that sufficient liquid assets will be available to make payment for the securities purchased. Securities purchased on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis are marked to market daily and begin earning interest on the settlement date. Losses may occur on these transactions due to changes in market conditions or the failure of counterparties to perform under the contract.
Futures Contracts
The Fund purchases and sells financial futures contracts to manage duration and yield curve risks. Upon entering into a financial futures contract with a broker, the Fund is required to deposit with a broker, either U.S. government securities or a specified amount of cash, which is shown as due from broker in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Futures contracts are valued daily and unrealized gains or losses are recorded in a “variation margin” account. The Fund receives from or pays to the broker a specified amount of cash based upon changes in the variation margin account. When a contract is closed, the Fund recognizes a realized gain or loss. Futures contracts have market risks, including the risk that the change in the value of the contract may not correlate with the changes in the value of the underlying securities. There is minimal counterparty risk to the Fund since futures contracts are exchange traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange traded futures contracts, guarantees the futures contracts against default.
Futures contracts outstanding at period end are listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
The average notional value of long and short futures contracts held by the Fund throughout the period was $12,808,736 and $1,921,558, respectively. This is based on amounts held as of each month-end throughout the fiscal period.
Restricted Securities
The Fund may purchase securities which are considered restricted. Restricted securities are securities that either: (a) cannot be offered for public sale without first being registered, or being able to take advantage of an exemption from registration, under the Securities Act of 1933; or (b) are subject to contractual restrictions on public sales. In some cases, when a security cannot be offered for public sale without first being registered, the issuer of the restricted security has agreed to register such securities for resale, at the issuer’s expense, either upon demand by the Fund or in connection with another registered offering of the securities. Many such restricted securities may be resold in the secondary market in transactions exempt from registration. Restricted securities may be determined to be liquid under criteria established by the Trustees. The Fund will not incur any registration costs upon such resales. The Fund’s restricted securities, like other securities, are priced in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Trustees.
Securities Lending
The Fund participates in a securities lending program providing for the lending of equity securities to qualified brokers. The term of the loans within the program is one year or less. The Fund normally receives cash collateral for securities loaned that is invested in affiliated money market funds, other money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements. Investments in money market funds may include funds with a “floating” NAV that can impose redemption fees and liquidity gates, impose certain operational
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49

impediments to investing cash collateral, and, if the investee fund’s NAV decreases, result in the Fund recognizing losses and being required to cover the decrease in the value of the cash collateral. Collateral is maintained at a minimum level of 100% of the market value of investments loaned, plus interest, if applicable. In accordance with the Fund’s securities lending agreement, the market value of securities on loan is determined each day at the close of business and any additional collateral required to cover the value of securities on loan is delivered to the Fund on the next business day. Earnings on collateral are allocated between the borrower of the security, the securities lending agent, as a fee for its services under the program and the Fund, according to agreed-upon rates. The Fund will not have the right to vote on securities while they are on loan. However, the Fund will attempt to terminate a loan in an effort to reacquire the securities in time to vote on matters that are deemed to be material by the Adviser. There can be no assurance that the Fund will have sufficient notice of such matters to be able to terminate the loan in time to vote thereon.
Securities lending transactions are subject to Master Netting Agreements which are agreements between the Fund and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Fund, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented on the Portfolio of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities are not net settlement amounts but gross. As indicated below, the cash collateral received by the Fund exceeds the market value of the securities loaned reducing the net settlement amount to zero. The chart below identifies the amount of collateral received as well as the market value of securities on loan. Additionally, the securities lending agreement executed by the Fund includes an indemnification clause. This clause stipulates that the borrower will reimburse the Fund for any losses as a result of any failure of the borrower to return equivalent securities to the Fund.
As of July 31, 2020, securities subject to this type of arrangement and related collateral were as follows:
Market Value of
Securities Loaned
Collateral
Received
$1,393,833 $1,431,638
Additional Disclosure Related to Derivative Instruments
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
  Assets
  Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities
Location
Fair
Value
Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments under ASC Topic 815    
Interest rate contracts Receivable for
variation margin on
futures contracts
$ 17,581*
* Includes cumulative net appreciation of futures contracts as reported in the footnotes to the Portfolio of Investments. Only the current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
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The Effect of Derivative Instruments on the Statement of Operations for the Year Ended July 31, 2020
Amount of Realized Gain or (Loss) on Derivatives Recognized in Income
  Futures
Contracts
Interest rate contracts $465,553
    
Change in Unrealized Appreciation or (Depreciation) on Derivatives Recognized in Income
  Futures
Contracts
Interest rate contracts $(12,191)
Other
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets, liabilities, expenses and revenues reported in the financial statements. Actual results could differ materially from those estimated. The Fund applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance.
3. SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
The following tables summarize share activity:
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class A Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 602,633 $11,030,108 1,017,180 $18,426,997
Conversion of Class C Shares to Class A Shares 577,227 11,313,650
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Fund 425,056 8,093,068
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 191,088 3,554,535 356,509 5,992,523
Shares redeemed (842,124) (15,137,260) (591,801) (10,713,481)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
CLASS A SHARE TRANSACTIONS
376,653 $7,540,451 1,359,115 $25,019,689
    
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class C Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 156,794 $2,848,857 295,829 $5,229,357
Conversion of Class C Shares to Class A Shares (585,290) (11,313,650)
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Fund 24,943 468,430
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 26,632 488,464 54,548 903,860
Shares redeemed (268,255) (4,750,816) (355,430) (6,666,352)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
CLASS C SHARE TRANSACTIONS
(59,886) $(945,065) (590,343) $(11,846,785)
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Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Institutional Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 806,718 $15,223,232 1,337,055 $24,174,708
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Fund 143,133 2,736,699
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 132,428 2,472,322 344,529 5,809,112
Shares redeemed (1,138,214) (21,041,358) (1,624,656) (28,538,979)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
INSTITUTIONAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS
(55,935) $(609,105) 56,928 $1,444,841
    
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class R6 Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 33,882 $624,449 235,953 $4,525,372
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 5,727 106,700 13,548 227,874
Shares redeemed (131,269) (2,327,038) (701,361) (13,043,937)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
CLASS R6 SHARE TRANSACTIONS
(91,660) $(1,595,889) (451,860) $(8,290,691)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
TOTAL FUND SHARE TRANSACTIONS
169,172 $4,390,392 373,840 $6,327,054
4. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
The accounting treatment of certain items in accordance with tax regulations may differ from the accounting treatment in accordance with GAAP which may result in permanent differences. In the case of the Fund, such differences primarily result from open wash sales deferrals on Acquired Funds.
For the year ended July 31, 2020, permanent differences identified and reclassified among the components of net assets were as follows:
Increase (Decrease)
Paid-In Capital Total Distributable
Earnings (Loss)
$32,889 $(32,889)
Net assets were not affected by this reclassification.
The tax character of distributions as reported on the Statement of Changes in Net Assets for the years ended July 31, 2020 and 2019, was as follows:
  2020 2019
Ordinary income1 $4,219,861 $7,714,224
Long-term capital gains $2,759,933 $6,142,833
1 For tax purposes, short-term capital gain distributions are considered ordinary income distributions.
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As of July 31, 2020, the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Undistributed ordinary income2 $13,453
Net unrealized appreciation $15,677,408
Undistributed long-term capital gains $2,359,045
Capital loss deferrals $(19,328)
2 For tax purposes, short-term capital gains are considered ordinary income in determining distributable earnings.
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis net unrealized appreciation/depreciation is attributable to differing treatments for the deferral of losses on wash sales, mark to market of futures contracts, deferral of paydown losses, straddle loss deferrals, TIPS deflation deferrals and partnership adjustments.
At July 31, 2020, the cost of investments for federal tax purposes was $152,194,326. The net unrealized appreciation of investments for federal tax purposes was $15,677,273. This consists of net unrealized appreciation from investments for those securities having an excess of value over cost of $19,791,716 and net unrealized depreciation from investments for those securities having an excess of cost over value of $4,114,443. The amounts presented are inclusive of derivative contracts.
At July 31, 2020, for federal income tax purposes, the Fund had $19,328 in straddle loss deferrals.
5. INVESTMENT ADVISER FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Investment Adviser Fee
The advisory agreement between the Fund and the Adviser provides for an annual fee equal to 0.75% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, the Adviser may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee and/or reimburse certain operating expenses of the Fund. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Adviser voluntarily waived $45,667 of its fee and voluntarily reimbursed $66,021 of transfer agent fees.
The Adviser has agreed to reimburse the Fund for certain investment adviser fees as a result of transactions in other affiliated investment companies. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Adviser reimbursed $4,277.
Certain of the Fund’s assets are managed by Federated Investment Management Company (the “Sub-Adviser”). Under the terms of a sub-advisory agreement between the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Adviser receives an allocable portion of the Fund’s adviser fee. The fee is paid by the Adviser out of its resources and is not an incremental Fund expense. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Sub-Adviser earned a fee of $142,739.
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Administrative Fee
Federated Administrative Services (FAS), under the Administrative Services Agreement, provides the Fund with administrative personnel and services. 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. The fee paid to FAS is based on the average daily net assets of the Investment Complex as specified below:
Administrative Fee Average Daily Net Assets
of the Investment Complex
0.100% on assets up to $50 billion
0.075% on assets over $50 billion
Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FAS may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the annualized fee paid to FAS was 0.082% of average daily net assets of the Fund.
In addition, FAS may charge certain out-of-pocket expenses to the Fund.
Distribution Services Fee
The Fund has adopted a Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. Under the terms of the Plan, the Fund will compensate Federated Securities Corp. (FSC), the principal distributor, from the daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A Shares and Class C Shares to finance activities intended to result in the sale of these shares. The Plan provides that the Fund may incur distribution expenses at the following percentages of average daily net assets annually, to compensate FSC:
  Percentage of Average Daily
Net Assets of Class
Class A Shares 0.05%
Class C Shares 0.75%
Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FSC may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, distribution services fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Distribution Services
Fees Incurred
Class C Shares $111,375
When FSC receives fees, it may pay some or all of them to financial intermediaries whose customers purchase shares. For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSC retained $15,552 of fees paid by the Fund. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund’s Class A Shares did not incur a distribution services fee; however, it may begin to incur this fee upon approval of the Trustees.
Sales Charges
Front-end sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSC) do not represent expenses of the Fund. They are deducted from the proceeds of sales of Fund shares prior to investment or from redemption proceeds prior to remittance, as applicable. For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSC retained $14,037 in sales charges from the sale of Class A Shares. FSC also retained $1,358 of CDSC relating to redemptions of Class C Shares.
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Other Service Fees
For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSSC received $13,415 of the other service fees disclosed in Note 2.
Expense Limitation
The Adviser and certain of its affiliates (which may include FSC, FAS and FSSC) on their own initiative have agreed to waive certain amounts of their respective fees and/or reimburse expenses. Total annual fund operating expenses (as shown in the financial highlights, excluding interest expense, extraordinary expenses and proxy-related expenses paid by the Fund, if any) paid by the Fund’s Class A Shares, Class C Shares, Institutional Shares and Class R6 Shares (after the voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements) will not exceed 1.31%, 2.06%, 1.06% and 1.05% (the “Fee Limit”), respectively, up to but not including the later of (the “Termination Date”): (a) October 1, 2021; or (b) the date of the Fund’s next effective Prospectus. While the Adviser and its applicable 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.
Directors’/Trustees’ and Miscellaneous Fees
Certain Officers and Trustees of the Fund are Officers and Directors or Trustees of certain of the above companies. To efficiently facilitate payment, Independent Directors’/Trustees’ fees and certain expenses related to conducting meetings of the Directors/Trustees and other miscellaneous expenses are paid by an affiliate of the Adviser which in due course are reimbursed by the Fund. These expenses related to conducting meetings of the Directors/Trustees and other miscellaneous expenses may be included in Accrued and Miscellaneous Expenses on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and Statement of Operations, respectively.
6. INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
Purchases and sales of investments, excluding long-term U.S. government securities and short-term obligations, for the year ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Purchases $202,460,944
Sales $198,573,237
7. CONCENTRATION OF RISK
The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities of companies that are deemed by the Fund’s management to be classified in similar business sectors. Economic developments may have an effect on the liquidity and volatility of the portfolio securities.
8. 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 Act and various conditions precedent that must be satisfied before the Fund can borrow. Loans under
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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 July 31, 2020, the Fund had no outstanding loans. During the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund did not utilize the LOC.
9. INTERFUND LENDING
Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the SEC, the Fund, along with other funds advised by subsidiaries of Federated Hermes, Inc., may participate in an interfund lending program. This program provides an alternative credit facility allowing the Fund to borrow from other participating affiliated funds. As of July 31, 2020, there were no outstanding loans. During the year ended July 31, 2020, the program was not utilized.
10. OTHER MATTERS
An outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus was first detected in China in December 2019 and subsequently spread globally. As of the date of the issuance of these financial statements, this coronavirus has resulted in closing borders, enhanced health screenings, 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.
11. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020, the amount of long-term capital gains designated by the Fund was $2,759,933.
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020, 38.67% of total ordinary income (including short-term capital gain) distributions made by the Fund are qualifying dividends which may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 15%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Act of 2003. Complete information is reported in conjunction with the reporting of your distributions on Form 1099-DIV.
Of the ordinary income (including short-term capital gain) distributions made by the Fund during the year ended July 31, 2020, 32.51% qualify for the dividend received deduction available to corporate shareholders.
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
TO THE board of trustees OF federated Hermes MDT Series and shareholders of Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund:
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund (formerly, Federated MDT Balanced Fund) (the “Fund”) (one of the portfolios constituting Federated Hermes MDT Series (formerly, Federated MDT Series) (the “Trust”)), including the portfolio of investments, as of July 31, 2020, and the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund (one of the funds constituting Federated Hermes MDT Series) at July 31, 2020, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Trust’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Trust in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial highlights are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
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Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of July 31, 2020, by correspondence with the custodian and others or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from others were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
We have served as the auditor of one or more Federated Hermes investment companies since 1979.
Boston, Massachusetts
September 22, 2020
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Shareholder Expense Example (unaudited)
As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase or redemption payments; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and to the extent applicable, distribution (12b-1) fees and/or other service fees and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you to understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. It is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from February 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020.
ACTUAL EXPENSES
The first section of the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this section, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you incurred over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first section under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses attributable to your investment during this period.
HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES
The second section of the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. Thus, you should not use the hypothetical account values and expenses to estimate the actual ending account balance or your expenses for the period. Rather, these figures are required to be provided to enable you to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
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Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transaction costs, such as sales charges (loads) on purchase or redemption payments. Therefore, the second section of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transaction costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
  Beginning
Account Value
2/1/2020
Ending
Account Value
7/31/2020
Expenses Paid
During Period1
Actual:      
Class A Shares $1,000 $1,048.20 $6.67
Class C Shares $1,000 $1,044.30 $10.47
Institutional Shares $1,000 $1,049.60 $5.40
Class R6 Shares $1,000 $1,049.20 $5.40
Hypothetical (assuming a 5% return
before expenses):
     
Class A Shares $1,000 $1,018.40 $6.57
Class C Shares $1,000 $1,014.60 $10.32
Institutional Shares $1,000 $1,019.60 $5.32
Class R6 Shares $1,000 $1,019.60 $5.32
1 Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratios, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 (to reflect the one-half-year period). The annualized net expense ratios are as follows:
   
Class A Shares 1.31%
Class C Shares 2.06%
Institutional Shares 1.06%
Class R6 Shares 1.06%
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Board of Trustees and Trust Officers
The Board of Trustees is responsible for managing the Trust’s business affairs and for exercising all the Trust’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. The address of all Independent Trustees listed is 4000 Ericsson Drive, Warrendale, PA 15086-7561; Attention: Mutual Fund Board. As of December 31, 2019, the Trust comprised five portfolio(s), and the Federated Hermes Fund Family consisted of 41 investment companies (comprising 135 portfolios). Unless otherwise noted, each Officer is elected annually. Unless otherwise noted, each Trustee oversees all portfolios in the Federated Hermes Fund Family and serves for an indefinite term. The Fund’s Statement of Additional Information includes additional information about Trust Trustees and is available, without charge and upon request, by calling 1-800-341-7400.
Interested TRUSTEES Background
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
J. Christopher Donahue*
Birth Date: April 11, 1949
President and Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: May 2006
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Director or Trustee of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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.
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
John B. Fisher*
Birth Date: May 16, 1956
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: May 2016
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Director or Trustee of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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 of some of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family 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; President and CEO of Passport Research, Ltd.; 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.
* Reasons for “interested” status: J. Christopher Donahue and John B. Fisher are interested due to their beneficial ownership of shares of Federated Hermes, Inc. and due to positions they hold with Federated Hermes, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES Background
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
John T. Collins
Birth Date: January 24, 1947
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving:
October 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; formerly, Chairman and CEO, The Collins Group, Inc. (a private equity firm) (Retired).
Other Directorships Held: Chairman of the Board of Directors, Director, and Chairman of the Compensation Committee, 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).
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
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 Fund Family; 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.
Maureen Lally-Green
Birth Date: July 5, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: August 2009
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Adjunct Professor 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; Director and Vice Chair, Our Campaign for the Church Alive!, Inc.; 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, St. Vincent College; and Director and Chair, North Catholic High School, Inc.
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.
Birth Date: April 10, 1945
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Management Consultant and Author.
Other Directorships Held: None.
Qualifications: Mr. Mansfield has served as a Marine Corps officer and in several banking, business management, educational roles and directorship positions throughout his long career. He remains active as a Management Consultant and Author.
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 Fund Family; 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).
P. Jerome Richey
Birth Date: February 23, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving:
October 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Management Consultant; Retired; formerly, Senior Vice Chancellor and Chief Legal Officer, University of Pittsburgh and Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly known as CONSOL Energy Inc.).
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, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly known as CONSOL Energy Inc.); and Board Member, Ethics Counsel and Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC (a law firm).
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
John S. Walsh
Birth Date:
November 28, 1957
Trustee

Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee, and Chair of the Board of Directors or Trustees, of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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).
OFFICERS
Name
Birth Date
Address
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years
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 Fund Family; Senior Vice President, Federated Administrative Services; Financial and Operations Principal for Federated Securities Corp. and Edgewood Services, Inc.; 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.
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Name
Birth Date
Address
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years
and Previous Position(s)
Peter J. Germain
Birth Date:
September 3, 1959
CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER, SECRETARY and EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Officer since: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Mr. Germain is Chief Legal Officer, Secretary and Executive Vice President of the Federated Hermes Fund Family. 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 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 Fund Family; 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.
Stephen F. Auth
Birth Date: September 13, 1956
101 Park Avenue
41st Floor
New York, NY 10178
CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER
Officer since: June 2012
Principal Occupations: Stephen F. Auth is Chief Investment Officer of various Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Executive Vice President, Federated Investment Counseling, Federated Global Investment Management Corp. and Federated Equity Management Company of Pennsylvania.
Previous Positions: Executive Vice President, Federated Investment Management Company and Passport Research, Ltd. (investment advisory subsidiary of Federated); Senior Vice President, Global Portfolio Management Services Division; Senior Vice President, Federated Investment Management Company and Passport Research, Ltd.; Senior Managing Director and Portfolio Manager, Prudential Investments.
    
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Evaluation and Approval of Advisory ContractMay 2020
Federated MDT Balanced Fund (the “Fund”)
(EFFECTIVE CLOSE OF BUSINESS ON JUNE 26, 2020, THE FUND’S NAME CHANGED TO FEDERATED HERMES MDT BALANCED FUND)
At its meetings in May 2020 (the “May Meetings”), the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of those Trustees who are not “interested persons” of the Fund, as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “Independent Trustees”), reviewed and unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory contract between the Fund and Federated MDTA LLC (the “Adviser”) and the investment subadvisory between the Adviser and Federated Investment Management Company with respect to the Fund (together, the “Contracts”) for an additional one-year term. The Board’s determination to approve the continuation of the Contracts reflects the exercise of its business judgment after considering all of the information and factors believed to be relevant and appropriate on whether to continue the existing arrangements. The information, factors and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board’s approval are summarized below.
Information Received and Review Process
At the request of the Independent Trustees, the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer (the “CCO”) furnished to the Board in advance of its May Meetings an independent written evaluation presenting on the topics discussed below. The Board considered the CCO’s independent written evaluation (the “CCO Fee Evaluation Report”), along with other information, in evaluating the reasonableness of the Fund’s management fee and in determining to approve the continuation of the Contracts. The CCO, in preparing the CCO Fee Evaluation Report, has the authority to retain consultants, experts or staff as reasonably necessary to assist in the performance of his duties, reports directly to the Board, and can be terminated only with the approval of a majority of the Independent Trustees. At the request of the Independent Trustees, the CCO Fee Evaluation Report followed the same general approach and covered the same topics as that of the report that had previously been delivered by the CCO in his capacity as “Senior Officer,” prior to the elimination of the Senior Officer position in December 2017.
In addition to the extensive materials that comprise and accompany the CCO Fee Evaluation Report, in the months preceding the May Meetings, the Board requested and reviewed written responses and supporting materials prepared by the Adviser and its affiliates (collectively, “Federated Hermes”) in response to requests posed to Federated Hermes on behalf of the Independent Trustees encompassing a wide variety of topics. The Board also considered such additional matters as the Independent Trustees deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Contracts, which included detailed information about the Fund and Federated Hermes furnished to the Board at its meetings throughout the
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year and in between regularly scheduled meetings on particular matters as the need arose, as well as information specifically prepared in connection with the approval of the continuation of the Contracts that was presented at the May Meetings.
The Board’s consideration of the Contracts included review of materials and information covering the following matters, among others: the Adviser’s and sub-adviser’s investment philosophy, revenue, profitability, personnel and processes; investment and operating strategies; the Fund’s short-term and long-term performance (in absolute terms, both on a gross basis and net of expenses, and relative to the Fund’s particular investment program and a group of its peer funds and/or its benchmark, as appropriate) and comments on the reasons for the Fund’s performance; the Fund’s investment objectives; the Fund’s expenses, including the advisory fee and the overall expense structure of the Fund (both in absolute terms and relative to a group of its peer funds), with due regard for contractual or voluntary expense limitations (if any); the use and allocation of brokerage commissions derived from trading the Fund’s portfolio securities (if any); and the nature, quality and extent of the advisory and other services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates. The Board also considered the preferences and expectations of Fund shareholders; the entrepreneurial and other risks assumed by the Adviser in sponsoring and managing the Fund; the continuing state of competition in the mutual fund industry and market practices; the range of comparable fees for similar funds in the mutual fund industry; the Fund’s relationship to the other funds advised by Federated Hermes (each, a “Federated Hermes Fund”), which include a comprehensive array of funds with different investment objectives, policies and strategies which are generally available for exchange without the incurrence of additional sales charges; compliance and audit reports concerning the Federated Hermes Funds and the Federated Hermes’ affiliates that service them (including communications from regulatory agencies), as well as Federated Hermes’ responses to any issues raised therein; and relevant developments in the mutual fund industry and how the Federated Hermes Funds and/or Federated Hermes may be responding to them. In addition, the Board received and considered information furnished by Federated Hermes on the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak on Federated Hermes generally and the Fund in particular, including, among other information, the current and anticipated impacts on the management, operations and performance of the Fund. The Board noted that its evaluation process is evolutionary and that the criteria considered and the emphasis placed on relevant criteria may change in recognition of changing circumstances in the mutual fund marketplace.
The Board also considered judicial decisions concerning allegedly excessive investment advisory fees in determining to approve the Contracts. Using these judicial decisions as a guide, the Board observed that the following factors may be relevant to an adviser’s fiduciary duty with respect to its receipt of
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compensation from a fund: (1) the nature and quality of the services provided by an adviser to a fund and its shareholders (including the performance of the fund, its benchmark, and comparable funds); (2) an adviser’s cost of providing the services (including the profitability to an adviser of providing advisory services to a fund); (3) the extent to which an adviser may realize “economies of scale” as a fund grows larger and, if such economies of scale exist, whether they have been shared with a fund and its shareholders or the family of funds; (4) any “fall-out” financial benefits that accrue to an adviser because of its relationship with a fund (including research services received from brokers that execute fund trades and any fees paid to affiliates of an adviser for services rendered to a fund); (5) comparative fee and expense structures (including a comparison of fees paid to an adviser with those paid by similar funds both internally and externally as well as management fees charged to institutional and other advisory clients of the adviser for what might be viewed as like services); and (6) the extent of care, conscientiousness and independence with which the fund’s board members perform their duties and their expertise (including whether they are fully informed about all facts the board deems relevant to its consideration of an adviser’s services and fees). The Board noted that the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) disclosure requirements regarding the basis for a fund board’s approval of the fund’s investment advisory contracts generally align with the factors listed above. The Board was aware of these factors and was guided by them in its review of the Contracts to the extent it considered them to be appropriate and relevant, as discussed further below.
The Board considered and weighed these factors in light of its substantial accumulated experience in governing the Fund and working with Federated Hermes on matters relating to the Federated Hermes Funds. While individual members of the Board may have weighed certain factors differently, the Board’s determination to continue the Contracts was based on a comprehensive consideration of all information provided to the Board throughout the year and specifically with respect to the continuation of the Contracts. The Independent Trustees were assisted throughout the evaluation process by independent legal counsel. In connection with their deliberations at the May Meetings, the Independent Trustees met separately in executive session with their independent legal counsel and without management present to review the relevant materials and consider their responsibilities under applicable laws. In addition, senior management representatives of Federated Hermes also met with the Independent Trustees and their independent legal counsel to discuss the materials and presentations furnished to the Board at the May Meetings. The Board considered the approval of the Contracts for the Fund as part of its consideration of agreements for funds across the Federated Hermes Funds family, but its approvals were made on a fund-by-fund basis.
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Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and the resources of the Adviser and its affiliates dedicated to the Fund. In this regard, the Board evaluated, among other things, the Adviser’s personnel, experience and track record, as well as the financial resources and overall reputation of Federated Hermes and its willingness to invest in personnel and infrastructure that benefit the Federated Hermes Funds. The Board noted the significant acquisition of Hermes Fund Managers Limited by Federated Hermes in 2018, which has deepened the organization’s investment management expertise and capabilities and expanded the investment process for all of the Federated Hermes Funds to incorporate environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) factors and issuer engagement on ESG matters.
In addition, the Board reviewed the qualifications, backgrounds and responsibilities of the portfolio management team primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund and the Adviser’s ability and experience in attracting and retaining qualified personnel to service the Fund. The Board noted the compliance program of the Adviser and the compliance-related resources devoted by the Adviser and its affiliates in support of the Fund’s obligations pursuant to Rule 38a-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, including the Adviser’s commitment to respond to rulemaking and other regulatory initiatives of the SEC. such as the liquidity risk management program rules. In addition, the Board considered the response by the Adviser to recent market conditions and considered the overall performance of the Adviser in this context. The Fund’s ability to deliver competitive performance when compared to its Performance Peer Group (as defined below) was also deemed to be relevant by the Board as a useful indicator of how the Adviser is executing the Fund’s investment program. The Adviser’s ability to execute this program was one of the Board’s considerations in reaching a conclusion that the nature, extent and quality of the Adviser’s investment management and related services warrant the continuation of the Contracts.
Fund Investment Performance
In evaluating the Fund’s investment performance, the Board considered performance results in light of the Fund’s investment objective, strategies and risks, as disclosed in the Fund’s prospectus. The Board also considered the Fund’s performance in light of the overall recent market conditions. The Board considered detailed investment reports on the Fund’s performance over different time periods that were provided to the Board throughout the year and in connection with the May Meetings and evaluated the Adviser’s analysis of the Fund’s performance for these time periods. The Board also reviewed comparative information regarding the performance of other mutual funds in the category of peer funds selected by Morningstar, Inc. (the “Morningstar”), an independent fund ranking organization (the “Performance Peer Group”), noting the CCO’s view that comparisons to fund peer groups may be helpful,
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though not conclusive, in evaluating the performance of the Adviser in managing the Fund. The Board considered, in evaluating such comparisons, that in some cases there may be differences in the funds’ investment objectives or investment management techniques, or the costs to implement funds, even within the same Performance Peer Group. In this connection, the Board considered that the Fund’s quantitative focus makes fee and expense comparisons particularly difficult as the funds in the Performance Peer Group varied widely in their complexity, and the management of the Fund is among the more complex relative to its Performance Peer Group.
For the periods ended December 31, 2019, the Fund’s performance for the three-year and five-year periods was above the median of the relevant Performance Peer Group, and the Fund’s performance fell below the median of the relevant Performance Peer Group for the one-year period. The Board discussed the Fund’s performance with the Adviser and recognized the efforts being taken by the Adviser in the context of other factors considered relevant by the Board.
Following such evaluation, and full deliberations, the Board concluded that the performance of the Fund supported renewal of the Contracts.
Fund Expenses
While mindful that courts have cautioned against giving too much weight to comparative information concerning fees charged by other advisers for managing funds with comparable investment programs, the Board has found the use of such comparisons to be relevant to its deliberations. In this regard, the Board was presented with, and considered, information regarding the contractual advisory fee rates, net advisory fee rates, total expense ratios and each element of the Fund’s total expense ratio (i.e., gross and net advisory fees, administrative fees, custody fees, portfolio accounting fees and transfer agency fees) relative to an appropriate group of peer funds compiled by Federated Hermes from the category of peer funds selected by Morningstar (the “Expense Peer Group”). The Board received a description of the methodology used to select the Expense Peer Group from the overall Morningstar category. The Board also reviewed comparative information regarding the fees and expenses of the broader group of funds in the overall Morningstar category. The Board focused on comparisons with other similar mutual funds more heavily than non-mutual fund products or services because such comparisons are believed to be more relevant. The Board considered that other mutual funds are the products most like the Fund, in that they are readily available to Fund shareholders as alternative investment vehicles, and they are the type of investment vehicle, in fact, chosen and maintained by the Fund’s investors. The Board noted that the range of their fees and expenses, therefore, appears to be a relevant indicator of what consumers have found to be reasonable in the marketplace in which the Fund competes.
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The Board reviewed the contractual advisory fee rate, net advisory fee rate and other expenses of the Fund and noted the position of the Fund’s fee rates relative to its Expense Peer Group. In this regard, the Board noted that the contractual advisory fee rate was above the median of the relevant Expense Peer Group, but the Board noted the applicable waivers and reimbursements, and that the overall expense structure of the Fund remained competitive in the context of other factors considered by the Board. In this regard, the Board had been previously advised that, while comparisons to its Expense Peer Group are relevant in judging the reasonableness of advisory fees, the Fund’s quantitative focus makes fee and expense comparisons particularly difficult. Although the Fund’s advisory fee was above the median of its Expense Peer Group range, the funds in the Expense Peer Group varied widely in their complexity, and the Board has been informed that the management of the Fund is among the more complex relative to its Expense Peer Group.
For comparison, the Board received and considered information about the fees charged by Federated Hermes for providing advisory services to other types of clients with investment strategies similar to those of the Federated Hermes Funds, including non-mutual fund clients such as institutional separate accounts and third-party unaffiliated mutual funds for which the Adviser or its affiliates serve as sub-adviser. The Board noted the CCO’s conclusion that mon-mutual fund clients are inherently different products due to the following differences, among others: (i) different types of targeted investors; (ii) different applicable laws and regulations; (iii) different legal structures; (iv) different average account sizes and portfolio management techniques made necessary by different cash flows and different associated costs; (v) the time spent by portfolio managers and their teams (among other personnel across various departments, including legal, compliance and risk management) in reviewing securities pricing, addressing different administrative responsibilities, and addressing different degrees of risk associated with management; and (vi) a variety of different costs. The Board also considered information regarding the differences in the nature of the services required for Federated Hermes to manage its proprietary mutual fund business versus managing a discrete pool of assets as a sub-adviser to another institution’s mutual fund, noting that Federated Hermes generally performs significant additional services and assumes substantially greater risks in managing the Fund and other Federated Hermes Funds than in its role as sub-adviser to an unaffiliated third-party mutual fund. The Board noted that the CCO did not consider the fees for providing advisory services to other types of clients to be determinative in judging the appropriateness of the Federated Hermes Funds’ advisory fees
Following such evaluation, and full deliberations, the Board concluded that the fees and expenses of the Fund are reasonable and supported renewal of the Contracts.
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Profitability and Other Benefits
The Board also received financial information about Federated Hermes, including information regarding the compensation and ancillary (or “fall-out”) benefits Federated Hermes derived from its relationships with the Federated Hermes Funds. This information covered not only the fees under the Federated Hermes Funds’ investment advisory contracts, but also fees received by Federated Hermes’ affiliates for providing other services to the Federated Hermes Funds under separate contracts (e.g., for serving as the Federated Hermes Funds’ administrator and distributor). In this regard, the Board considered that certain of Federated Hermes’ affiliates provide distribution and shareholder services to the Federated Hermes Funds, for which they may be compensated through distribution and servicing fees paid pursuant to Rule 12b-1 plans or otherwise. The Board also received and considered information detailing any indirect benefit Federated Hermes may derive from its receipt of research services from brokers who execute portfolio trades for the Federated Hermes Funds. In addition, the Board considered the fact that, in order for the Federated Hermes Fund to be competitive in the marketplace, the Adviser and its affiliates frequently waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses and have disclosed to Federated Hermes Fund shareholders and/or reported to the Board their intention to do so in the future. Moreover, the Board received and considered regular reports from Federated Hermes throughout the year as to the institution, adjustment or elimination of these voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements.
The Board received and considered information furnished by Federated Hermes, as requested by the CCO, that reported revenues on a fund-by-fund basis and made estimates of the allocation of expenses on a fund-by-fund basis, using allocation methodologies specified by the CCO and described to the Board. The Board considered the CCO’s view that, while these cost allocation reports apply consistent allocation processes, the inherent difficulties in allocating costs continues to cause the CCO to question the precision of the process and to conclude that such reports may be unreliable, because a single change in an allocation estimate may dramatically alter the resulting estimate of cost and/or profitability of a Federated Hermes Fund and may produce unintended consequences. The allocation information, including the CCO’s view that fund-by-fund estimations may be unreliable, was considered in the evaluation by the Board. In addition, the Board considered that, during the prior year, an independent consultant conducted a review of the allocation methodologies used by Federated Hermes in estimating profitability for purposes of reporting to the Board in connection with the continuation of the Contract. The Board noted the consultant’s view that, although there is no single best method to allocate expenses, the methodologies used by Federated Hermes are reasonable.
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The Board also reviewed information compiled by Federated Hermes comparing its profitability information to other publicly held fund management companies, including information regarding profitability trends over time. The Board considered the CCO’s conclusion that, based on such profitability information, Federated Hermes’ profit margins did not appear to be excessive. The Board also considered the CCO’s view that Federated Hermes appeared financially sound, with the resources necessary to fulfill its obligations under its contracts with the Federated Hermes Funds.
Economies of Scale
The Board received and considered information about the notion of possible realization of “economies of scale” as a fund grows larger, the difficulties of calculating economies of scale at an individual fund level, and the extent to which potential scale benefits are shared with shareholders. In this regard, the Board considered that Federated Hermes has made significant and long-term investments in areas that support all of the Federated Hermes Funds, such as personnel and processes for the portfolio management, trading operations, issuer engagement (including with respect to ESG matters), shareholder services, compliance, business continuity, internal audit and risk management functions, as well as systems technology (including technology relating to cybersecurity) and use of data. The Board noted that Federated Hermes’ investments in these areas are extensive and are designed to provide enhanced services to the Federated Hermes Funds and their shareholders. The Board considered that the benefits of these investments (as well as the benefits of any economies of scale, should they exist) are likely to be shared with the Federated Hermes Fund family as a whole. In addition, the Board considered that the Adviser and its affiliates have frequently waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses for the Federated Hermes Funds and that such waivers and reimbursements are another means for potential economies of scale to be shared with shareholders and can provide protection from an increase in expenses if a Federated Hermes Fund’s assets decline. Federated Hermes, as it does throughout the year, and specifically in connection with the Board’s review of the Contracts, furnished information relative to adviser-paid fees (commonly referred to as revenue sharing). The Board considered the beliefs of Federated Hermes and the CCO that this information should be viewed to determine if there was an incentive to either not apply breakpoints or to apply breakpoints, at higher levels and should not be viewed to determine the appropriateness of advisory fees. The Board also noted the absence of any applicable regulatory or industry guidelines on this subject, which is compounded by the lack of any common industry practice or general pattern with respect to structuring fund advisory fees with “breakpoints” that serve to reduce the fee as a fund attains a certain size.
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Conclusions
The Board considered the CCO’s conclusion that his observations and the information accompanying the CCO Fee Evaluation Report show that the management fee for the Fund was reasonable and the CCO’s recommendation that the Board approve the management fee. The Board noted that, under these circumstances, no changes were recommended to, and no objection was raised to the continuation of, the Contracts by the CCO. The CCO also recognized that the Board’s evaluation of the Federated Hermes Funds’ advisory and subadvisory arrangements is a continuing and on-going process that is informed by the information that the Board requests and receives from management throughout the course of the year and, in this regard, the CCO noted certain items for future reporting to the Board or further consideration by management as the Board continues its on-going oversight of the Federated Hermes Funds.
In its determination to continue an existing investment advisory contract, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision to terminate or not renew an investment advisory contract. In particular, the Board recognized that many shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Adviser’s industry standing and reputation and with the expectation that the Adviser will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund. Thus, the Board’s approval of the Contracts reflected the fact that it is the shareholders who have effectively selected the Adviser by virtue of having invested in the Fund. The Board concluded that, in light of the factors summarized above, including the nature, quality and scope of the services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates, continuation of the Contracts was appropriate.
The Board based its determination to approve the Contracts on the totality of the circumstances and relevant factors and with a view to past and future long-term considerations. Not all of the factors and considerations identified above were necessarily deemed to be relevant to the Fund, nor did the Board consider any one of them to be determinative. With respect to the factors that were deemed to be relevant, the Board’s determination to approve the continuation of the Contracts reflects its view that Federated Hermes’ performance and actions provided a satisfactory basis to support the determination to continue the existing arrangements.
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Liquidity Risk Management Program Annual Evaluation of Adequacy and Effectiveness
In accordance with Rule 22e-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Liquidity Rule”), Federated Hermes MDT Series (the “Trust”) has adopted and implemented a liquidity risk management program (the “LRMP”) for Federated Hermes MDT Balanced Fund (the “Fund” and collectively with the Federated Hermes funds, the “Funds”). The LRMP seeks to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk. “Liquidity risk” is defined under the Liquidity Rule as the risk that the Fund is unable to meet redemption requests without significantly diluting remaining investors’ interests in the Fund. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) has approved the designation of the Funds’ investment advisers as the administrators for the LRMP (collectively, the “Administrator”). The Administrator has established a Liquidity Risk Management Committee (the “Committee”) comprised of representatives from various departments across the Administrator to assist it in the implementation and on-going administration of the LRMP. The Committee, in turn, has delegated to the Fixed Income and Equities Liquidity Committees, each a separate committee previously established by the Administrator, the responsibility to review and assess certain information related to the liquidity of the Funds that fall within their respective asset classes.
The Program is comprised of various components designed to support the assessment and/or management of liquidity risk, including: (1) the periodic assessment (no less frequently than annually) of certain factors that influence the Fund’s liquidity risk; (2) the periodic classification (no less frequently than monthly) of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories that reflect an estimate of their liquidity under current market conditions; (3) a 15% limit on the acquisition of “illiquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule); (4) to the extent a Fund does not invest primarily in “highly liquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule), the determination of a minimum percentage of the Fund’s assets that generally will be invested in highly liquid investments (an “HLIM”); (5) if a Fund has established an HLIM, the periodic review (no less frequently than annually) of the HLIM and the adoption of policies and procedures for responding to a shortfall of the Fund’s highly liquid investments below its HLIM; and (6) periodic reporting to the Board.
At its meetings in May 2020, the Board received and reviewed a written report from the Funds’ Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Risk Officer, on behalf of the Administrator, concerning the operation of the LRMP for the period from the LRMP’s inception on December 1, 2018 through March 31, 2020 (the “Period”). The Report addressed the operation of the LRMP and assessed its adequacy and effectiveness, including, where applicable, the operation of any HLIM established for a Fund. There were no
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material changes to the LRMP during the Period. The Report summarized the operation of the Program and the information and factors considered by the Administrator in assessing whether the Program has been adequately and effectively implemented with respect to the Funds. Such information and factors included, among other things:
■  the liquidity risk framework used to assess, manage, and periodically review each Fund’s liquidity risk and the results of this assessment, including a review of the Funds’ access to other available funding sources such as the Funds’ interfund lending facility, redemptions in-kind and committed lines of credit and confirmation that the Fund did not have to access any of these alternative funding sources during the Period;
■  the periodic classifications of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories and the methodologies and inputs used to classify the investments, including the Fund’s reasonably anticipated trade size;
■  the analysis received from a third-party liquidity assessment vendor that is taken into account in the process of determining the liquidity classifications of the Fund’s investments and the results of an evaluation of the services performed by the vendor in support of this process;
■  the fact that the Fund invested primarily in highly liquid investments during the Period and, therefore, was not required to establish, and has not established, an HLIM and the procedures for monitoring the status of the Fund as investing primarily in highly liquid investments;
■  the fact that the Fund invested no more than 15% of its assets in illiquid investments during the Period and the procedures for monitoring this limit; and
■  liquidity events during the Period, including the impact on liquidity caused by extended non-U.S. market closures and the market disruptions resulting from the novel coronavirus outbreak, and the fact that there were no specific liquidity events during the Period that materially affected the Fund’s liquidity risk.
Based on this review, the Administrator concluded that the LRMP is operating effectively to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk, and that the Program has been and continues to be adequately and effectively implemented to monitor and, as applicable, respond to the Fund’s liquidity developments.
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Voting Proxies on Fund Portfolio Securities
A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies, if any, relating to securities held in the Fund’s portfolio is available, without charge and upon request, by calling 1-800-341-7400. A report on “Form N-PX” of how the Fund voted any such 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.
Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
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.
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Mutual funds are not bank deposits or obligations, are not 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. Investment in mutual funds involves investment risk, including the possible loss of principal.
This Report is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by the Fund’s Prospectus, which contains facts concerning its objective and policies, management fees, expenses and other information.
Federated Hermes MDT Balanced 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
CUSIP 31421R841
CUSIP 31421R833
CUSIP 31421R825
CUSIP 31421R692
37326 (9/20)
© 2020 Federated Hermes, Inc.

 

 

 

Annual Shareholder Report
July 31, 2020
Share Class | Ticker A | QALGX B | QBLGX C | QCLGX Institutional | QILGX

Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund
(formerly, Federated MDT Large Cap Growth Fund)
Fund Established 2005

A Portfolio of Federated Hermes MDT Series
(formerly, Federated MDT Series)
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING REPORT DELIVERY
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the Fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the Fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Fund or your financial intermediary electronically by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank); other shareholders may call the Fund at 1-800-341-7400, Option 4.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the Fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank); other shareholders may call the Fund at 1-800-341-7400, Option 4. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the Fund complex or your financial intermediary.

Not FDIC Insured ■ May Lose Value ■ No Bank Guarantee

J. Christopher
Donahue
President
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund
Letter from the President
Dear Valued Shareholder,
I am pleased to present the Annual Shareholder Report for your fund covering the period from August 1, 2019 through July 31, 2020.
As we all confront the unprecedented effects of the coronavirus and the challenges it presents to our families, communities, businesses and the financial markets, I want you to know that everyone at Federated Hermes is dedicated to helping you successfully navigate the markets ahead. You can count on us for the insights, investment management knowledge and client service that you have come to expect. Please refer to our website, FederatedInvestors.com, for timely updates on this and other economic and market matters.
Thank you for investing with us. I hope you find this information useful and look forward to keeping you informed.
Sincerely,
J. Christopher Donahue, President
         


Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (unaudited)
The total return of Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”), based on net asset value for the 12-month reporting period ended July 31, 2020, was 26.91% for Class A Shares, 25.95% for Class B Shares, 25.99% for Class C Shares and 27.22% for the Institutional Shares. The total return for the Russell 1000® Growth Index (R1000G),1 the Fund’s broad-based securities market index, was 29.84% for the same period. The total return of the Morningstar Large Growth Funds Average (MLGFA),2 a peer group average for the Fund, was 23.56% during the same period. The Fund’s and MLGFA’s total returns for the most recently completed fiscal year reflected actual cash flows, transaction costs and other expenses, which were not reflected in the total return of the R1000G.
During the reporting period, the Fund’s investment strategy focused on stock selection. Stock selection was the most significant factor affecting the Fund’s performance relative to the R1000G during the period.
The following discussion will focus on the performance of the Fund’s Institutional Shares relative to the R1000G.
MARKET OVERVIEW
The twelve months of this reporting period, culminating with the COVID-19 pandemic, saw huge volatility in the domestic market. Despite the dramatic decline and recovery in the first half of 2020, the whole market Russell 3000® Index3 was up 10.93% for the full period. However, looking more deeply at the sub-indexes reveals the wildness of the market. Large caps dominated small caps:4 the mega-cap Russell Top 200® Index5 returned 15.84%, while the Russell Midcap® Index6 returned 2.04% and the small-cap Russell 2000® Index7 returned -4.59%. In addition, once again, growth dominated value: the Russell 3000® Growth Index8 returned 28.24% while the Russell 3000® Value Index9 returned -6.67. The largest spread between growth and value in one capitalization range this year was almost 38 percentage points: the mega-cap Russell Top 200® Growth Index10 gained 33.06% while the Russell Top 200® Value11 Index returned -4.80%.
The best performing sectors in the R1000G during the reporting period were Information Technology (44.13%), Consumer Discretionary (40.16%) and Communication Services (25.72%). Underperforming sectors during the same period included Energy (-29.68%), Industrials (-2.73%) and Utilities (3.10%).
Annual Shareholder Report
1

STOCK SELECTION
When looking at the Fund’s performance in terms of fundamental and technical characteristics, the most significant driver of underperformance during the reporting period was weak stock selection during the last quarter of 2019 among stocks that had prices near high and neutral-to-high analyst conviction. In the 2020 calendar year, there were partial favorable offsets from investing in stocks with prices not near their one-year highs and neutral-to-high analyst conviction; these stocks outperformed significantly. The Fund’s sector exposures continued to remain close to R1000G weights; there were no significant overweights or underweights at the end of the fiscal year. Unfavorable stock selection in the Consumer Discretionary and Health Care sectors was the biggest contributor to the Fund’s underperformance during the period. Favorable stock selection in the Information Technology sector was the largest favorable offset to the underperformance of the reporting period.
Individual stocks enhancing the Fund’s performance during the reporting period included DocuSign, Inc. and Cadence Design Systems, Inc., both overweighted by the Fund, and Boeing Company, which was underweighted by the Fund.
Individual stocks detracting from the Fund’s performance during the reporting period included two stocks overweighted by the Fund, HCA Healthcare, Inc. and HEICO Corporation. There were also two detractors underweighted by the Fund, Tesla Inc. and Microsoft Corporation.
1 Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the R1000G.
2 Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the MLGFA.
3 The Russell 3000® Index measures the performance of the largest 3,000 U.S. companies representing approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equity market. The Russell 3000® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad market, and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected.*
4 Small-cap stocks may be less liquid and subject to greater price volatility than large-cap stocks.
5 The Russell Top 200® Index measures the performance of the largest cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell Top 200® Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index. It includes approximately 200 of the largest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership and represents approximately 68% of the U.S. market. The Russell Top 200® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for this very large cap segment and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected.*
6 The Russell Midcap® Index measures the performance of the mid-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell Midcap® Index is a subset of the Russell 1000® Index. It includes approximately 800 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The Russell Midcap® Index represents approximately 31% of the total market capitalization of the Russell 1000® companies. The Russell Midcap® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for the mid-cap segment. The Russell Midcap Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true mid-cap opportunity set.*
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7 The Russell 2000® Index measures the performance of the small-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell 2000® Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index representing approximately 10% of the total market capitalization of that index. It includes approximately 2000 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The Russell 2000® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased small-cap barometer and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true small-cap opportunity set.*
8 The Russell 3000® Growth Index measures the performance of the broad growth segment of the U.S. equity universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. The Russell 3000® Growth Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad growth market. The Russell 3000® Growth Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect growth characteristics.*
9 The Russell 3000® Value Index measures the performance of the broad value segment of U.S. equity value universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. The Russell 3000® Value Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad value market. The Russell 3000® Value Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect value characteristics.*
10 The Russell Top 200® Growth Index measures the performance of the especially large cap segment of the U.S. equity universe represented by stocks in the largest 200 by market cap. It includes Russell Top 200® Index companies with higher growth earning potential as defined by Russell’s leading style methodology.*
11 The Russell Top 200® Value Index measures the performance of the especially large cap segment of the U.S. equity universe represented by stocks in the largest 200 by market cap. It includes Russell Top 200® Index companies with value characteristics as defined by Russell’s leading style methodology.*
* The index is unmanaged, and it is not possible to invest directly in an index.
Annual Shareholder Report
3

FUND PERFORMANCE AND GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT
The graph below illustrates the hypothetical investment of $10,0001 in the Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”) from July 31, 2010 to July 31, 2020, compared to the Russell 1000® Growth Index (R1000G)2 and the Morningstar Large Growth Funds Average (MLGFA).3 The Average Annual Total Return table below shows returns for each class averaged over the stated periods.
Growth of a $10,000 Investment
Growth of $10,000 as of July 31, 2020
■  Total returns shown for Class C Shares include the maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% as applicable.
    
The Fund offers multiple share classes whose performance may be greater than or less than its other share class(es) due to differences in sales charges and expenses. See the Average Annual Return table below for the returns of additional classes not shown in the line graph above.
Average Annual Total Returns for the Period Ended 7/31/2020
(returns reflect all applicable sales charges and contingent deferred sales charge as specified below in footnote #1)
  1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
Class A Shares 19.94% 13.64% 14.75%
Class B Shares 20.45% 13.82% 14.71%
Class C Shares 24.99% 14.07% 14.54%
Institutional Shares 27.22% 15.22% 15.69%
R1000G 29.84% 16.84% 17.29%
MLGFA 23.56% 13.67% 15.15%
    
Annual Shareholder Report
4

Performance data quoted represents past performance which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Mutual fund performance changes over time and current performance may be lower or higher than what is stated. For current to the most recent month-end performance and after-tax returns, visit FederatedInvestors.com or call 1-800-341-7400. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Mutual funds are not obligations of or guaranteed by any bank and are not federally insured.
1 Represents a hypothetical investment of $10,000 in the Fund after deducting applicable sales charges: for Class A Shares, the maximum sales charge of 5.50% ($10,000 investment minus $550 sales charges = $9,450); for Class B Shares, the maximum contingent deferred sales charge is 5.50% on any redemption less than one year from the purchase date; for Class C Shares, a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge would be applied to any redemption less than one year from the purchase date. The Fund’s performance assumes the reinvestment of all dividends and distributions. The R1000G and MLGFA have been adjusted to reflect reinvestment of dividends on securities.
2 The R1000G measures the performance of the large-cap growth segment of the U.S. equity universe. It includes those Russell 1000® Index companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. The R1000G is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for the large-cap growth segment. The R1000G is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect growth characteristics. The R1000G is unmanaged and, unlike the Fund, is not affected by cash flows. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. The R1000G is not adjusted to reflect sales charges, expenses or other fees that the Securities and Exchange Commission requires to be reflected in the Fund’s performance.
3 Morningstar figures represent the average of the total returns reported by all the funds designated by Morningstar as falling into the respective category indicated. They do not reflect sales charges. The Morningstar figures in the Growth of $10,000 line graph are based on historical return information published by Morningstar and reflect the return of the funds comprising the category in the year of publication. Because the funds designated by Morningstar as falling into the category can change over time, the Morningstar figures in the line graph may not match the Morningstar figures in the Average Annual Total Returns table, which reflect the return of the funds that currently comprise the category.
Annual Shareholder Report
5

Portfolio of Investments Summary Table (unaudited)
At July 31, 2020, the Fund’s sector composition1 was as follows:
Sector Composition Percentage of
Total Net Assets
Information Technology 44.1%
Consumer Discretionary 14.8%
Health Care 14.7%
Communication Services 10.2%
Industrials 5.3%
Consumer Staples 3.9%
Financials 2.9%
Real Estate 2.0%
Materials 0.4%
Securities Lending Collateral2 0.3%
Cash Equivalents3 1.8%
Other Assets and Liabilities—Net4 (0.4)%
TOTAL 100.0%
1 Except for Securities Lending Collateral, Cash Equivalents and Other Assets and Liabilities, sector classifications are based upon, and individual portfolio securities are assigned to, the classifications of the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) except that the Adviser assigns a classification to securities not classified by the GICS and to securities for which the Adviser does not have access to the classification made by the GICS.
2 Represents cash collateral received for portfolio securities on loan that may be invested in affiliated money market funds, other money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements.
3 Cash Equivalents include any investments in money market mutual funds and/or overnight repurchase agreements other than those representing cash collateral for securities lending.
4 Assets, other than investments in securities, less liabilities. See Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
Annual Shareholder Report
6

Portfolio of Investments
July 31, 2020
Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—98.3%  
    Communication Services—10.2%  
14,254   Activision Blizzard, Inc. $1,177,808
6,072 1 Alphabet, Inc., Class A 9,034,832
689   Cable One, Inc. 1,255,744
983 1 Charter Communications, Inc. 570,140
21,665 1 Facebook, Inc. 5,495,761
70,783 1,2 MSG Networks, Inc. 674,562
4,769 1 Netflix, Inc. 2,331,469
32,666 1 TripAdvisor, Inc. 660,833
    TOTAL 21,201,149
    Consumer Discretionary—14.8%  
3,942 1 Amazon.com, Inc. 12,475,169
1,032 1 AutoZone, Inc. 1,246,057
3,337   Dollar General Corp. 635,365
10,615   Domino’s Pizza, Inc. 4,103,865
28,316   eBay, Inc. 1,565,309
8,685 1 Etsy, Inc. 1,028,130
8,228   Home Depot, Inc. 2,184,452
17,389   Lowe’s Cos., Inc. 2,589,396
5,015   McDonald’s Corp. 974,314
1,076 1 O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. 513,661
1,134 1 Tesla, Inc. 1,622,482
2,558 1 Ulta Beauty, Inc. 493,668
49,522 1 Under Armour, Inc., Class A 520,971
3,041 1,2 Wayfair, Inc. 809,180
    TOTAL 30,762,019
    Consumer Staples—3.9%  
14,734   Church and Dwight, Inc. 1,419,326
8,415   Clorox Co. 1,990,232
5,747   Costco Wholesale Corp. 1,870,821
14,471   Energizer Holdings, Inc. 725,431
19,190   Flowers Foods, Inc. 436,572
2,361   Hershey Foods Corp. 343,313
9,056   PepsiCo, Inc. 1,246,649
    TOTAL 8,032,344
Annual Shareholder Report
7

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Financials—2.9%  
9,805 1 Arch Capital Group Ltd. $301,504
8,782   MSCI, Inc., Class A 3,301,856
2,067   Marketaxess Holdings, Inc. 1,068,019
12,291   The Travelers Cos., Inc. 1,406,336
    TOTAL 6,077,715
    Health Care—14.7%  
7,298   Abbott Laboratories 734,471
5,543   AbbVie, Inc. 526,086
9,985 1 Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1,023,363
14,339   Amgen, Inc. 3,508,323
3,100   Anthem, Inc. 848,780
3,728 1 Biogen, Inc. 1,024,044
18,259   Eli Lilly & Co. 2,744,145
31,638 1 Hologic, Inc. 2,207,700
1,863   Humana, Inc. 731,134
2,435 1 IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. 968,521
2,602 1 Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC 281,666
6,359 1 Livongo Health, Inc. 809,183
1,716 1 Masimo Corp. 377,726
31,217   Merck & Co., Inc. 2,504,852
712 1 Mettler-Toledo International, Inc. 665,720
1,838 1 Molina Healthcare, Inc. 339,479
17,701 1 SAGE Therapeutics, Inc. 806,635
2,161   UnitedHealth Group, Inc. 654,308
7,777 1 Veeva Systems, Inc. 2,057,561
12,638 1 Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 3,437,536
10,128 1 Waters Corp. 2,158,783
14,149   Zoetis, Inc. 2,146,120
    TOTAL 30,556,136
    Industrials—5.3%  
3,037   Acuity Brands, Inc. 300,967
12,143   Flowserve Corp. 338,425
3,191   Hubbell, Inc. 430,689
8,171   Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. 1,419,385
285,725   KAR Auction Services, Inc. 4,323,019
3,526   Lockheed Martin Corp. 1,336,248
85,670   Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc., Class A 1,676,562
Annual Shareholder Report
8

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Industrials—continued  
6,117   Verisk Analytics, Inc. $1,154,339
    TOTAL 10,979,634
    Information Technology—44.1%  
12,188 1 Adobe, Inc. 5,415,372
47,815   Apple, Inc. 20,323,288
6,673   Applied Materials, Inc. 429,274
3,966 1 Arista Networks, Inc. 1,030,248
4,310 1 Autodesk, Inc. 1,019,013
10,436   Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp. 853,247
6,173   Broadcom, Inc. 1,955,298
51,813 1 Cadence Design Systems, Inc. 5,660,570
4,108   Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp. 280,659
3,694 1 Coupa Software, Inc. 1,132,026
8,399 1 Crowdstrike Holdings, Inc. 950,767
21,792 1 DocuSign, Inc. 4,725,159
22,915 1 Dynatrace Holdings LLC 958,535
1,706 1 FleetCor Technologies, Inc. 441,121
8,307 1 Fortinet, Inc. 1,148,858
5,902 1 GoDaddy, Inc. 414,793
11,960 1 Inphi Corp. 1,562,694
5,879   Intuit, Inc. 1,801,149
9,118 1 Keysight Technologies, Inc. 910,797
12,700   Mastercard, Inc. 3,918,331
74,611   Microsoft Corp. 15,296,001
9,314   NVIDIA Corp. 3,954,631
10,237 1 Okta, Inc. 2,262,172
4,932   Oracle Corp. 273,479
21,092   Paychex, Inc. 1,516,937
21,087 1 PayPal Holdings, Inc. 4,134,528
34,910   Qualcomm, Inc. 3,686,845
3,141 1 ServiceNow, Inc. 1,379,527
4,205 1 Square, Inc. 546,019
5,601 1 Synopsys, Inc. 1,115,831
2,133   Universal Display Corp. 372,102
6,607 1 Verisign, Inc. 1,398,570
3,257 1 Zoom Video Communications, Inc. 826,985
    TOTAL 91,694,826
Annual Shareholder Report
9

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Materials—0.4%  
1,474   Sherwin-Williams Co. $955,034
    Real Estate—2.0%  
3,683   American Tower Corp. 962,699
6,400   Coresite Realty Corp. 825,920
7,956   SBA Communications Corp. 2,478,612
    TOTAL 4,267,231
    TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(IDENTIFIED COST $140,640,251)
204,526,088
    INVESTMENT COMPANIES—2.1%  
640,284   Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund,
Premier Shares, 0.10%3
640,284
3,804,098   Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Institutional Shares, 0.21%3 3,806,381
    TOTAL INVESTMENT COMPANIES
(IDENTIFIED COST $4,443,782)
4,446,665
    TOTAL INVESTMENT IN SECURITIES—100.4%
(IDENTIFIED COST $145,084,033)4
208,972,753
    OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES - NET—(0.4)%5 (922,720)
    TOTAL NET ASSETS—100% $208,050,033
Affiliated holdings are investment companies which are managed by the Adviser or an affiliate of the Adviser. Transactions with affiliated fund holdings during the period ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
  Federated Hermes
Government
Obligations Fund,
Premier Shares*
Federated Hermes
Institutional
Prime Value
Obligations Fund,
Institutional Shares
Total
Affiliated
Transactions
Balance of Shares Held 7/31/2019 145,725 2,521,943 2,667,668
Purchases/Additions 18,877,699 35,692,448 54,570,147
Sales/Reductions (18,383,140) (34,410,293) (52,793,433)
Balance of Shares Held 7/31/2020 640,284 3,804,098 4,444,382
Value $640,284 $3,806,381 $4,446,665
Change in Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation N/A $2,295 $2,295
Net Realized Gain/(Loss) N/A $(1,377) $(1,377)
Dividend Income $6,157 $30,302 $36,459
* All or a portion of the balance/activity for the fund relates to cash collateral received on securities lending transactions.
1 Non-income-producing security.
2 All or a portion of these securities are temporarily on loan to unaffiliated broker/dealers.
3 7-day net yield.
Annual Shareholder Report
10

4 The cost of investments for federal tax purposes amounts to $146,041,969.
5 Assets, other than investments in securities, less liabilities. See Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
Note: The categories of investments are shown as a percentage of total net assets at July 31, 2020.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
Level 1—quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2—other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). Also includes securities valued at amortized cost.
Level 3—significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
As of July 31, 2020, all investments of the Fund utilized Level 1 inputs in valuing the Fund’s assets carried at fair value.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
11

Financial HighlightsClass A Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $20.81 $20.66 $17.46 $15.18 $17.64
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)1 (0.04) (0.05) (0.07) 0.01 0.04
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 5.37 2.01 4.67 2.36 (0.70)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 5.33 1.96 4.60 2.37 (0.66)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net realized gain (1.11) (1.81) (1.40) (0.09) (1.80)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $25.03 $20.81 $20.66 $17.46 $15.18
Total Return2 26.91% 11.28% 27.38% 15.66% (3.62)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.11% 1.48% 1.52% 1.52% 1.50%
Net investment income (loss) (0.19)% (0.27)% (0.38)% 0.02% 0.28%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.30% 0.00%5 0.02% 0.08% 0.07%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $93,740 $67,513 $59,355 $49,794 $45,661
Portfolio turnover 220% 97% 104% 104% 69%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 Represents less than 0.01%.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
12

Financial HighlightsClass B Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $18.66 $18.85 $16.16 $14.16 $16.71
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)1 (0.18) (0.18) (0.20) (0.11) (0.07)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 4.76 1.80 4.29 2.20 (0.68)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 4.58 1.62 4.09 2.09 (0.75)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net realized gain (1.11) (1.81) (1.40) (0.09) (1.80)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $22.13 $18.66 $18.85 $16.16 $14.16
Total Return2 25.95% 10.51% 26.38% 14.81% (4.41)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.90% 2.23% 2.27% 2.27% 2.25%
Net investment income (loss) (0.96)% (1.02)% (1.13)% (0.71)% (0.49)%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.27% 0.00%5 0.02% 0.08% 0.08%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $9,662 $12,612 $14,432 $13,654 $14,925
Portfolio turnover 220% 97% 104% 104% 69%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 Represents less than 0.01%.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
13

Financial HighlightsClass C Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $18.10 $18.35 $15.76 $13.81 $16.34
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)1 (0.17) (0.18) (0.19) (0.11) (0.06)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 4.61 1.74 4.18 2.15 (0.67)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 4.44 1.56 3.99 2.04 (0.73)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net realized gain (1.11) (1.81) (1.40) (0.09) (1.80)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $21.43 $18.10 $18.35 $15.76 $13.81
Total Return2 25.99% 10.46% 26.42% 14.82% (4.39)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.88% 2.23% 2.27% 2.27% 2.25%
Net investment income (loss) (0.95)% (1.03)% (1.13)% (0.72)% (0.46)%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.29% 0.00%5 0.02% 0.08% 0.07%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $14,536 $12,445 $10,685 $9,672 $10,052
Portfolio turnover 220% 97% 104% 104% 69%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 Represents less than 0.01%.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
14

Financial HighlightsInstitutional Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $21.83 $21.52 $18.10 $15.69 $18.13
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)1 0.03 (0.01) (0.03) 0.05 0.08
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 5.64 2.13 4.85 2.45 (0.72)
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 5.67 2.12 4.82 2.50 (0.64)
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net realized gain (1.11) (1.81) (1.40) (0.09) (1.80)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $26.39 $21.83 $21.52 $18.10 $15.69
Total Return2 27.22% 11.59% 27.65% 15.98% (3.40)%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 0.81% 1.22% 1.27% 1.27% 1.25%
Net investment income (loss) 0.13% (0.04)% (0.14)% 0.27% 0.52%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.34% 0.00%5 0.02% 0.08% 0.07%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $90,113 $37,076 $11,966 $7,649 $7,469
Portfolio turnover 220% 97% 104% 104% 69%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 Represents less than 0.01%.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
15

Statement of Assets and Liabilities
July 31, 2020
Assets:    
Investment in securities, at value including $574,921 of securities loaned and $4,446,665 of investment in affiliated holdings* (identified cost $145,084,033)   $208,972,753
Income receivable   55,855
Income receivable from affiliated holdings   751
Receivable for investments sold   896,697
Receivable for shares sold   102,220
TOTAL ASSETS   210,028,276
Liabilities:    
Payable for investments purchased $1,018,007  
Payable for shares redeemed 117,701  
Payable for collateral due to broker for securities lending 640,284  
Payable for investment adviser fee (Note 5) 2,236  
Payable for administrative fee (Note 5) 436  
Payable for transfer agent fees 36,135  
Payable for distribution services fee (Note 5) 14,733  
Payable for other service fees (Notes 2 and 5) 42,722  
Payable for share registration costs 40,729  
Accrued expenses (Note 5) 65,260  
TOTAL LIABILITIES   1,978,243
Net assets for 8,274,342 shares outstanding   $208,050,033
Net Assets Consist of:    
Paid-in capital   $131,709,227
Total distributable earnings (loss)   76,340,806
TOTAL NET ASSETS   $208,050,033
Annual Shareholder Report
16

Statement of Assets and Liabilitiescontinued
Net Asset Value, Offering Price and Redemption Proceeds Per Share    
Class A Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($93,739,771 ÷ 3,744,763 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $25.03
Offering price per share (100/94.50 of $25.03)   $26.49
Redemption proceeds per share   $25.03
Class B Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($9,661,827 ÷ 436,610 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $22.13
Offering price per share   $22.13
Redemption proceeds per share (94.50/100 of $22.13)   $20.91
Class C Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($14,535,585 ÷ 678,247 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $21.43
Offering price per share   $21.43
Redemption proceeds per share (99.00/100 of $21.43)   $21.22
Institutional Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($90,112,850 ÷ 3,414,722 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $26.39
Offering price per share   $26.39
Redemption proceeds per share   $26.39
* See information listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
17

Statement of Operations
Year Ended July 31, 2020
Investment Income:      
Dividends (including $30,302 received from an affiliated holding*)     $1,530,467
Net income on securities loaned (includes $6,157 received from an affiliated holding* related to cash collateral balances)     3,211
TOTAL INCOME     1,533,678
Expenses:      
Investment adviser fee (Note 5)   $1,236,290  
Administrative fee (Note 5)   130,558  
Custodian fees   42,790  
Transfer agent fees   249,398  
Directors’/Trustees’ fees (Note 5)   2,186  
Auditing fees   27,700  
Legal fees   7,721  
Portfolio accounting fees   86,805  
Distribution services fee (Note 5)   174,292  
Other service fees (Notes 2 and 5)   248,288  
Share registration costs   68,672  
Printing and postage   32,957  
Miscellaneous (Note 5)   28,126  
TOTAL EXPENSES   2,335,783  
Waiver/reimbursement of investment adviser fee (Note 5)   (517,001)  
Net expenses     1,818,782
Net investment income (loss)     (285,104)
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments:      
Net realized gain on investments (including net realized loss of $(1,377) on sales of investments in an affiliated holding*)     12,827,359
Net change in unrealized appreciation of investments (including net change in unrealized appreciation of $2,295 on investments in an affiliated holding*)     31,352,658
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments     44,180,017
Change in net assets resulting from operations     $43,894,913
* See information listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
18

Statement of Changes in Net Assets
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets    
Operations:    
Net investment income (loss) $(285,104) $(426,359)
Net realized gain 12,827,359 9,852,764
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation 31,352,658 3,316,789
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS 43,894,913 12,743,194
Distributions to Shareholders:    
Class A Shares (4,102,840) (5,477,815)
Class B Shares (700,438) (1,293,241)
Class C Shares (770,197) (969,378)
Institutional Shares (3,849,963) (1,895,731)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (9,423,438) (9,636,165)
Share Transactions:    
Proceeds from sale of shares 25,421,100 50,787,953
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from PNC Multi-Factor Large Cap Growth Fund 101,740,899
Net asset value of shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 8,888,859 9,069,033
Cost of shares redeemed (92,117,585) (29,755,658)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM SHARE TRANSACTIONS 43,933,273 30,101,328
Change in net assets 78,404,748 33,208,357
Net Assets:    
Beginning of period 129,645,285 96,436,928
End of period $208,050,033 $129,645,285
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
19

Notes to Financial Statements
July 31, 2020
1. ORGANIZATION
Federated Hermes MDT Series (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust consists of five portfolios. The financial statements included herein are only those of Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”), a diversified portfolio. The financial statements of the other portfolios are presented separately. The assets of each portfolio are segregated and a shareholder’s interest is limited to the portfolio in which shares are held. Each portfolio pays its own expenses. The Fund offers four classes of shares: Class A Shares, Class B Shares, Class C Shares and Institutional Shares. All shares of the Fund have equal rights with respect to voting, except on class-specific matters. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term capital appreciation.
On March 30, 2017, the Fund’s T Share class became effective with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), but is not yet offered for sale.
Effective August 1, 2018, an automatic conversion feature for Class C Shares was implemented. Pursuant to this automatic conversion feature, after Class C Shares have been held for ten years from the date of purchase, they will automatically convert to Class A Shares on the next monthly conversion processing date.
On November 15, 2019, the Fund acquired all of the net assets of PNC Multi-Factor Large Cap Growth Fund (the “Acquired Fund”), an open-end investment company, in a tax-free reorganization in exchange for shares of the Fund, pursuant to a plan of reorganization approved by the Acquired Fund shareholders on November 5, 2019. The purpose of the transaction was to combine two portfolios with comparable investment objectives and strategies. For financial reporting purposes, assets received and shares issued by the Fund were recorded at fair value; however, the cost basis of the investments received from the Acquired Fund was carried forward to align ongoing reporting of the Fund’s realized gains and losses with amounts distributable to shareholders for tax purposes.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class A Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 1.586 shares of the Fund’s Class A Shares.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class C Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 1.581 shares of the Fund’s Class C Shares.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class I Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 1.545 shares of the Fund’s Institutional Shares.
Annual Shareholder Report
20

The Fund received net assets from the Acquired Fund as the result of the tax-free reorganization as follows:
Shares of the
Fund Issued
Acquired Fund’s
Net Assets
Received
Unrealized
Appreciation1
Net Assets
of the Fund
Immediately
Prior to
Combination
Net Assets
of the Fund
Immediately
After
Combination
4,605,196 $101,740,899 $9,990,130 $117,706,237 $219,447,136
1 Unrealized Appreciation is included in the Net Assets Received amount shown above.
Assuming the acquisition had been completed on August 1, 2019, the beginning of the annual reporting period of the Fund, the Fund’s pro forma results of operations for the year ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Net investment income (loss) $(26,688)
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments 47,081,335
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations $47,054,647
Because the combined investment portfolios have been managed as a single integrated portfolio since the acquisition was completed, it is not practicable to separate the amounts of revenue and earnings of the Acquired Fund that have been included in the Fund’s Statement of Operations and Statement of Change in Net Assets, respectively, as of July 31, 2020.
Prior to June 29, 2020, the name of the Trust and Fund was Federated MDT Series and Federated MDT Large Cap Growth Fund, respectively.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements. These policies are in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
Investment Valuation
In calculating its net asset value (NAV), the Fund generally values investments as follows:
■  Equity securities listed on an exchange or traded through a regulated market system are valued at their last reported sale price or official closing price in their principal exchange or market.
■  Shares of other mutual funds or non-exchange-traded investment companies are valued based upon their reported NAVs.
■  Fixed-income securities are fair valued using price evaluations provided by a pricing service approved by the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the “Trustees”).
Annual Shareholder Report
21

■  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 Trustees.
■  For securities that are fair valued in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Trustees, certain factors may be considered, such as: the last traded or purchase price of the security, information obtained by contacting the issuer or dealers, analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents, fundamental analytical data, the nature and duration of restrictions on disposition, the movement of the market in which the security is normally traded, public trading in similar securities or derivative contracts of the issuer or comparable issuers, movement of a relevant index, or other factors including but not limited to industry changes and relevant government actions.
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 (“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 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, and the actual value obtained could be materially different.
Fair Valuation Procedures
The Trustees have ultimate responsibility for determining the fair value of investments for which market quotations are not readily available. The Trustees have appointed a Valuation Committee comprised of officers of the Fund, Federated MDTA LLC (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 Trustees have 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. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for reviewing third-party pricing-service evaluations including periodic reviews of third-party pricing services’ policies, procedures and valuation methods (including key inputs, methods, models and assumptions), transactional back-testing, comparisons of evaluations of different pricing services, and review of price challenges by the Adviser based on recent market activity. 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 Trustees. The Trustees periodically review and approve the fair valuations made by the Valuation Committee and any changes made to the procedures.
Annual Shareholder Report
22

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. 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. In the event that market quotations and price evaluations are not available for an investment, the fair value of the investment is determined in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trustees.
Repurchase Agreements
The Fund may invest in repurchase agreements for short-term liquidity purposes. It is the policy of the Fund to require the other party to a repurchase agreement to transfer to the Fund’s custodian or sub-custodian eligible securities or cash with a market value (after transaction costs) at least equal to the repurchase price to be paid under the repurchase agreement. The eligible securities are transferred to accounts with the custodian or sub-custodian in which the Fund holds a “securities entitlement” and exercises “control” as those terms are defined in the Uniform Commercial Code. The Fund has established procedures for monitoring the market value of the transferred securities and requiring the transfer of additional eligible securities if necessary to equal at least the repurchase price. These procedures also allow the other party to require securities to be transferred from the account to the extent that their market value exceeds the repurchase price or in exchange for other eligible securities of equivalent market value.
The insolvency of the other party or other failure to repurchase the securities may delay the disposition of the underlying securities or cause the Fund to receive less than the full repurchase price. Under the terms of the repurchase agreement, any amounts received by the Fund in excess of the repurchase price and related transaction costs must be remitted to the other party.
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements in which eligible securities are transferred into joint trading accounts maintained by the custodian or sub-custodian for investment companies and other clients advised by the Fund’s Adviser and its affiliates. The Fund will participate on a pro rata basis with the other investment companies and clients in its share of the securities transferred under such repurchase agreements and in its share of proceeds from any repurchase or other disposition of such securities.
Annual Shareholder Report
23

Investment Income, Gains and Losses, Expenses and Distributions
Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade-date basis. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are recorded on an identified-cost basis. Interest income and expenses are accrued daily. Dividend income and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Foreign dividends are recorded on the ex-dividend date or when the Fund is informed of the ex-dividend date. Distributions of net investment income, if any, are declared and paid annually. Non-cash dividends included in dividend income, if any, are recorded at fair value. Amortization/accretion of premium and discount is included in investment income. Investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses, and certain fund-level expenses are allocated to each class based on relative average daily net assets, except that select classes will bear certain expenses unique to those classes. The detail of the total fund expense waiver and reimbursements of $517,001 is disclosed in Note 5.
Dividends are declared separately for each class. No class has preferential dividend rights; differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses.
Other Service Fees
The Fund may pay other service fees up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A Shares, Class B Shares and Class C Shares to unaffiliated financial intermediaries or to Federated Shareholder Services Company (FSSC) for providing services to shareholders and maintaining shareholder accounts. Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FSSC may voluntarily reimburse the Fund for other service fees. For the year ended July 31, 2020, other service fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Other Service
Fees Incurred
Class A Shares $190,191
Class B Shares 26,901
Class C Shares 31,196
TOTAL $248,288
Federal Taxes
It is the Fund’s policy to comply with the Subchapter M provision of the Internal Revenue Code and to distribute to shareholders each year substantially all of its income. Accordingly, no provision for federal income tax is necessary. As of and during the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund did not have a liability for any uncertain tax positions. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to tax liabilities as income tax expense in the Statement of Operations. As of July 31, 2020, tax years 2017 through 2020 remain subject to examination by the Fund’s major tax jurisdictions, which include the United States of America and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Annual Shareholder Report
24

When-Issued and Delayed-Delivery Transactions
The Fund may engage in when-issued or delayed-delivery transactions. The Fund records when-issued securities on the trade date and maintains security positions such that sufficient liquid assets will be available to make payment for the securities purchased. Securities purchased on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis are marked to market daily and begin earning interest on the settlement date. Losses may occur on these transactions due to changes in market conditions or the failure of counterparties to perform under the contract.
Securities Lending
The Fund participates in a securities lending program providing for the lending of equity securities to qualified brokers. The term of the loans within the program is one year or less. The Fund normally receives cash collateral for securities loaned that may be invested in affiliated money market funds, other money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements. Investments in money market funds may include funds with a “floating” NAV that can impose redemption fees and liquidity gates, impose certain operational impediments to investing cash collateral, and, if the investee fund’s NAV decreases, result in the Fund recognizing losses and being required to cover the decrease in the value of the cash collateral. Collateral is maintained at a minimum level of 100% of the market value of investments loaned, plus interest, if applicable. In accordance with the Fund’s securities lending agreement, the market value of securities on loan is determined each day at the close of business and any additional collateral required to cover the value of securities on loan is delivered to the Fund on the next business day. Earnings on collateral are allocated between the borrower of the security, the securities lending agent, as a fee for its services under the program and the Fund, according to agreed-upon rates. The Fund will not have the right to vote on securities while they are on loan. However, the Fund will attempt to terminate a loan in an effort to reacquire the securities in time to vote on matters that are deemed to be material by the Adviser. There can be no assurance that the Fund will have sufficient notice of such matters to be able to terminate the loan in time to vote thereon.
Securities lending transactions are subject to Master Netting Agreements which are agreements between the Fund and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Fund, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented on the Portfolio of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities are not net settlement amounts but gross. As indicated below, the cash collateral received by the Fund exceeds the market value of the securities loaned reducing the net settlement amount to zero. The chart below identifies the amount of collateral received as well as the market value of securities on loan. Additionally, the securities lending agreement executed by the Fund includes an indemnification clause. This clause stipulates that the borrower will reimburse the Fund for any losses as a result of any failure of the borrower to return equivalent securities to the Fund.
Annual Shareholder Report
25

As of July 31, 2020, securities subject to this type of arrangement and related collateral were as follows:
Market Value of
Securities Loaned
Collateral
Received
$574,921 $640,284
Other
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets, liabilities, expenses and revenues reported in the financial statements. Actual results could differ materially from those estimated. The Fund applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance.
3. SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
The following tables summarize share activity:
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class A Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 448,019 $9,256,462 656,472 $13,105,404
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Fund 703,729 14,926,094
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 185,136 3,734,190 287,970 4,964,605
Shares redeemed (836,434) (17,393,596) (573,201) (11,287,981)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
CLASS A SHARE TRANSACTIONS
500,450 $10,523,150 371,241 $6,782,028
    
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class B Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 18,918 $376,860 15,474 $275,427
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 38,249 685,430 81,777 1,269,989
Shares redeemed (296,608) (5,312,408) (186,625) (3,266,416)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
CLASS B SHARE TRANSACTIONS
(239,441) $(4,250,118) (89,374) $(1,721,000)
Annual Shareholder Report
26

Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class C Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 137,996 $2,411,329 287,106 $4,940,359
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Fund 18,359 337,996
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 43,943 762,414 64,160 966,884
Shares redeemed (209,547) (3,655,507) (245,939) (4,453,354)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
CLASS C SHARE TRANSACTIONS
(9,249) $(143,768) 105,327 $1,453,889
    
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Institutional Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 609,210 $13,376,449 1,564,212 $32,466,763
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Fund 3,883,108 86,476,809
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 174,603 3,706,825 103,408 1,867,555
Shares redeemed (2,950,847) (65,756,074) (524,974) (10,747,907)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM INSTITUTIONAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS 1,716,074 $37,804,009 1,142,646 $23,586,411
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM
TOTAL FUND SHARE TRANSACTIONS
1,967,834 $43,933,273 1,529,840 $30,101,328
4. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
The accounting treatment of certain items in accordance with income tax regulations may differ from the accounting treatment in accordance with GAAP which may result in permanent differences. In the case of the Fund, such differences primarily result from a Fair Fund litigation payment and open wash sale deferrals on an Acquired Fund.
For the year ended July 31, 2020, permanent differences identified and reclassified among the components of net assets were as follows:
Increase (Decrease)
Paid-In Capital Total Distributable
Earnings (Loss)
$22,572 $(22,572)
Annual Shareholder Report
27

Net assets were not affected by this reclassification.
The tax character of distributions as reported on the Statement of Changes in Net Assets for the years ended July 31, 2020 and 2019, was as follows:
  2020 2019
Ordinary income1 $3,443,870 $5,514,491
Long-term capital gains $5,979,568 $4,121,674
1 For tax purposes, short-term capital gain distributions are considered ordinary income distributions.
As of July 31, 2020, the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Undistributed ordinary income2 $9,003,465
Net unrealized appreciation $62,930,784
Undistributed long-term capital gains $4,406,557
2 For tax purposes, short term capital gains are considered ordinary income in determining distributable earnings.
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis net unrealized appreciation is attributable to differing treatments for the deferral of losses on wash sales.
At July 31, 2020, the cost of investments for federal tax purposes was $146,041,969. The net unrealized appreciation of investments for federal tax purposes was $62,930,784. This consists of net unrealized appreciation from investments for those securities having an excess of value over cost of $63,843,135 and net unrealized depreciation from investments for those securities having an excess of cost over value of $912,351.
5. INVESTMENT ADVISER FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Investment Adviser Fee
The advisory agreement between the Fund and the Adviser provides for an annual fee equal to 0.75% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, the Adviser may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Adviser voluntarily waived $514,604 of its fee. The Adviser has agreed to reimburse the Fund for certain investment adviser fees as a result of transactions in other affiliated investment companies. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Adviser reimbursed $2,397.
Annual Shareholder Report
28

Administrative Fee
Federated Administrative Services (FAS), under the Administrative Services Agreement, provides the Fund with administrative personnel and services. 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. The fee paid to FAS is based on the average daily net assets of the Investment Complex as specified below:
Administrative Fee Average Daily Net Assets
of the Investment Complex
0.100% on assets up to $50 billion
0.075% on assets over $50 billion
Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FAS may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the annualized fee paid to FAS was 0.079% of average daily net assets of the Fund.
In addition, FAS may charge certain out-of-pocket expenses to the Fund.
Distribution Services Fee
The Fund has adopted a Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. Under the terms of the Plan, the Fund will compensate Federated Securities Corp. (FSC), the principal distributor, from the daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A Shares, Class B Shares and Class C Shares to finance activities intended to result in the sale of these shares. The Plan provides that the Fund may incur distribution expenses at the following percentages of average daily net assets annually, to compensate FSC:
  Percentage of Average Daily
Net Assets of Class
Class A Shares 0.05%
Class B Shares 0.75%
Class C Shares 0.75%
Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FSC may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, distribution services fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Distribution Services
Fees Incurred
Class B Shares $80,703
Class C Shares 93,589
TOTAL $174,292
Annual Shareholder Report
29

When FSC receives fees, it may pay some or all of them to financial intermediaries whose customers purchase shares. For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSC retained $99,835 of fees paid by the Fund. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund’s Class A Shares did not incur a distribution services fee; however, it may begin to incur this fee upon approval of the Trustees.
Other Service Fees
For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSSC received $43,864 of the other service fees disclosed in Note 2.
Sales Charges
Front-end sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSC) do not represent expenses of the Fund. They are deducted from the proceeds of sales of Fund shares prior to investment or from redemption proceeds prior to remittance, as applicable. For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSC retained $11,143 in sales charges from the sale of Class A Shares. FSC also retained $62,171 and $1,079 of CDSC relating to redemptions of Class B Shares and Class C Shares, respectively.
Expense Limitation
The Adviser and certain of its affiliates (which may include FSC, FAS and FSSC) on their own initiative have agreed to waive certain amounts of their respective fees and/or reimburse expenses. Total annual fund operating expenses (as shown in the financial highlights, excluding interest expenses, extraordinary expenses and proxy-related expenses paid by the Fund, if any) paid by the Fund’s Class A Shares, Class B Shares, Class C Shares and Institutional Shares (after the voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements) will not exceed 0.99%, 1.74%, 1.74% and 0.74% (the “Fee Limit”), respectively, up to but not including the later of (the “Termination Date”): (a) October 1, 2021; or (b) the date of the Fund’s next effective Prospectus. Prior to November 18, 2019, the Fee Limits disclosed above for the referenced share classes were 1.51%, 2.26%, 2.26% and 1.26%, respectively. While the Adviser and its applicable 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.
Directors’/Trustees’ and Miscellaneous Fees
Certain Officers and Trustees of the Fund are Officers and Directors or Trustees of certain of the above companies. To efficiently facilitate payment, Independent Directors’/Trustees’ fees and certain expenses related to conducting meetings of the Directors/Trustees and other miscellaneous expenses are paid by an affiliate of the Adviser which in due course are reimbursed by the Fund. These expenses related to conducting meetings of the Directors/Trustees and other miscellaneous expenses may be included in Accrued and Miscellaneous Expenses on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and Statement of Operations, respectively.
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6. INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
Purchases and sales of investments, excluding long-term U.S. government securities and short-term obligations, for the year ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Purchases $378,780,781
Sales $355,478,074
7. CONCENTRATION OF RISK
The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities of companies that are deemed by the Fund’s management to be classified in similar business sectors. Economic developments may have an effect on the liquidity and volatility of the portfolio securities.
8. 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 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 July 31, 2020, the Fund had no outstanding loans. During the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund did not utilize the LOC.
9. INTERFUND LENDING
Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the SEC, the Fund, along with other funds advised by subsidiaries of Federated Hermes, Inc., may participate in an interfund lending program. This program provides an alternative credit facility allowing the Fund to borrow from other participating affiliated funds. As of July 31, 2020, there were no outstanding loans. During the year ended July 31, 2020, the program was not utilized.
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10. OTHER MATTERS
An outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus was first detected in China in December 2019 and subsequently spread globally. As of the date of the issuance of these financial statements, this coronavirus has resulted in closing borders, enhanced health screenings, 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.
11. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020, the amount of long-term capital gains designated by the Fund was $5,979,568.
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020, 37.03% of total ordinary income (including short-term capital gain) distributions made by the Fund are qualifying dividends which may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 15%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Act of 2003. Complete information is reported in conjunction with the reporting of your distributions on Form 1099-DIV.
Of the ordinary income (including short-term capital gain) distributions made by the Fund during the year ended July 31, 2020, 36.60% qualify for the dividend received deduction available to corporate shareholders.
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
TO THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF FEDERATED HERMES MDT SERIES AND SHAREHOLDERS OF FEDERATED HERMES MDT LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND:
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund (formerly, Federated MDT Large Cap Growth Fund) (the “Fund”) (one of the portfolios constituting Federated Hermes MDT Series (formerly, Federated MDT Series ) (the “Trust”)), including the portfolio of investments, as of July 31, 2020, and the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund (one of the funds constituting Federated Hermes MDT Series) at July 31, 2020, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Trust’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Trust in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial highlights are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities
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owned as of July 31, 2020, by correspondence with the custodian and others or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from others were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
We have served as the auditor of one or more Federated Hermes investment companies since 1979.
Boston, Massachusetts
September 22, 2020
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Shareholder Expense Example (unaudited)
As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase or redemption payments; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and to the extent applicable, distribution (12b-1) fees and/or other service fees and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you to understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. It is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from February 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020.
ACTUAL EXPENSES
The first section of the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this section, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you incurred over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first section under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses attributable to your investment during this period.
HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES
The second section of the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. Thus, you should not use the hypothetical account values and expenses to estimate the actual ending account balance or your expenses for the period. Rather, these figures are required to be provided to enable you to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
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Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transaction costs, such as sales charges (loads) on purchase or redemption payments. Therefore, the second section of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transaction costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
  Beginning
Account Value
2/1/2020
Ending
Account Value
7/31/2020
Expenses Paid
During Period1
Actual:      
Class A Shares $1,000 $1,174.60 $5.35
Class B Shares $1,000 $1,170.30 $9.39
Class C Shares $1,000 $1,170.40 $9.39
Institutional Shares $1,000 $1,176.00 $4.00
Hypothetical (assuming a 5% return
before expenses):
     
Class A Shares $1,000 $1,020.00 $4.97
Class B Shares $1,000 $1,016.20 $8.72
Class C Shares $1,000 $1,016.20 $8.72
Institutional Shares $1,000 $1,021.20 $3.72
1 Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratios, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 (to reflect the one-half-year period). The annualized net expense ratios are as follows:
   
Class A Shares 0.99%
Class B Shares 1.74%
Class C Shares 1.75%
Institutional Shares 0.74%
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Board of Trustees and Trust Officers
The Board of Trustees is responsible for managing the Trust’s business affairs and for exercising all the Trust’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. The address of all Independent Trustees listed is 4000 Ericsson Drive, Warrendale, PA 15086-7561; Attention: Mutual Fund Board. As of December 31, 2019, the Trust comprised five portfolio(s), and the Federated Hermes Fund Family consisted of 41 investment companies (comprising 135 portfolios). Unless otherwise noted, each Officer is elected annually. Unless otherwise noted, each Trustee oversees all portfolios in the Federated Hermes Fund Family and serves for an indefinite term. The Fund’s Statement of Additional Information includes additional information about Trust Trustees and is available, without charge and upon request, by calling 1-800-341-7400.
Interested TRUSTEES Background
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
J. Christopher Donahue*
Birth Date: April 11, 1949
President and Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: May 2006
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Director or Trustee of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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.
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
John B. Fisher*
Birth Date: May 16, 1956
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: May 2016
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Director or Trustee of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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 of some of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family 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; President and CEO of Passport Research, Ltd.; 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.
* Reasons for “interested” status: J. Christopher Donahue and John B. Fisher are interested due to their beneficial ownership of shares of Federated Hermes, Inc. and due to positions they hold with Federated Hermes, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES Background
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
John T. Collins
Birth Date: January 24, 1947
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving:
October 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; formerly, Chairman and CEO, The Collins Group, Inc. (a private equity firm) (Retired).
Other Directorships Held: Chairman of the Board of Directors, Director, and Chairman of the Compensation Committee, 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).
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
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 Fund Family; 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.
Maureen Lally-Green
Birth Date: July 5, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: August 2009
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Adjunct Professor 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; Director and Vice Chair, Our Campaign for the Church Alive!, Inc.; 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, St. Vincent College; and Director and Chair, North Catholic High School, Inc.
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.
Birth Date: April 10, 1945
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Management Consultant and Author.
Other Directorships Held: None.
Qualifications: Mr. Mansfield has served as a Marine Corps officer and in several banking, business management, educational roles and directorship positions throughout his long career. He remains active as a Management Consultant and Author.
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 Fund Family; 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).
P. Jerome Richey
Birth Date: February 23, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving:
October 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Management Consultant; Retired; formerly, Senior Vice Chancellor and Chief Legal Officer, University of Pittsburgh and Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly known as CONSOL Energy Inc.).
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, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly known as CONSOL Energy Inc.); and Board Member, Ethics Counsel and Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC (a law firm).
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
John S. Walsh
Birth Date:
November 28, 1957
Trustee

Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee, and Chair of the Board of Directors or Trustees, of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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).
OFFICERS
Name
Birth Date
Address
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years
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 Fund Family; Senior Vice President, Federated Administrative Services; Financial and Operations Principal for Federated Securities Corp. and Edgewood Services, Inc.; 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.
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Name
Birth Date
Address
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years
and Previous Position(s)
Peter J. Germain
Birth Date:
September 3, 1959
CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER, SECRETARY and EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Officer since: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Mr. Germain is Chief Legal Officer, Secretary and Executive Vice President of the Federated Hermes Fund Family. 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 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 F. Auth
Birth Date: September 13, 1956
101 Park Avenue
41st Floor
New York, NY 10178
CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER
Officer since: June 2012
Principal Occupations: Stephen F. Auth is Chief Investment Officer of various Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Executive Vice President, Federated Investment Counseling, Federated Global Investment Management Corp. and Federated Equity Management Company of Pennsylvania.
Previous Positions: Executive Vice President, Federated Investment Management Company and Passport Research, Ltd. (investment advisory subsidiary of Federated); Senior Vice President, Global Portfolio Management Services Division; Senior Vice President, Federated Investment Management Company and Passport Research, Ltd.; Senior Managing Director and Portfolio Manager, Prudential Investments.
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 Fund Family; 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.
    
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Evaluation and Approval of Advisory ContractMay 2020
Federated MDT Large Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”)
(EFFECTIVE CLOSE OF BUSINESS ON JUNE 26, 2020, THE FUND’S NAME CHANGED TO FEDERATED HERMES MDT LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND)
At its meetings in May 2020 (the “May Meetings”), the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of those Trustees who are not “interested persons” of the Fund, as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “Independent Trustees”), reviewed and unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory contract between the Fund and Federated MDTA LLC (the “Adviser”) with respect to the Fund (the “Contract”) for an additional one-year term. The Board’s determination to approve the continuation of the Contract reflects the exercise of its business judgment after considering all of the information and factors believed to be relevant and appropriate on whether to continue the existing arrangements. The information, factors and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board’s approval are summarized below.
Information Received and Review Process
At the request of the Independent Trustees, the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer (the “CCO”) furnished to the Board in advance of its May Meetings an independent written evaluation presenting on the topics discussed below. The Board considered the CCO’s independent written evaluation (the “CCO Fee Evaluation Report”), along with other information, in evaluating the reasonableness of the Fund’s management fee and in determining to approve the continuation of the Contract. The CCO, in preparing the CCO Fee Evaluation Report, has the authority to retain consultants, experts or staff as reasonably necessary to assist in the performance of his duties, reports directly to the Board, and can be terminated only with the approval of a majority of the Independent Trustees. At the request of the Independent Trustees, the CCO Fee Evaluation Report followed the same general approach and covered the same topics as that of the report that had previously been delivered by the CCO in his capacity as “Senior Officer,” prior to the elimination of the Senior Officer position in December 2017.
In addition to the extensive materials that comprise and accompany the CCO Fee Evaluation Report, in the months preceding the May Meetings, the Board requested and reviewed written responses and supporting materials prepared by the Adviser and its affiliates (collectively, “Federated Hermes”) in response to requests posed to Federated Hermes on behalf of the Independent Trustees encompassing a wide variety of topics. The Board also considered such additional matters as the Independent Trustees deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Contract, which included detailed information about the Fund and Federated Hermes furnished to the Board at its meetings throughout the year
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and in between regularly scheduled meetings on particular matters as the need arose, as well as information specifically prepared in connection with the approval of the continuation of the Contract that was presented at the May Meetings.
The Board’s consideration of the Contract included review of materials and information covering the following matters, among others: the Adviser’s investment philosophy, revenue, profitability, personnel and processes; investment and operating strategies; the Fund’s short-term and long-term performance (in absolute terms, both on a gross basis and net of expenses, and relative to the Fund’s particular investment program and a group of its peer funds and/or its benchmark, as appropriate) and comments on the reasons for the Fund’s performance; the Fund’s investment objectives; the Fund’s expenses, including the advisory fee and the overall expense structure of the Fund (both in absolute terms and relative to a group of its peer funds), with due regard for contractual or voluntary expense limitations (if any); the use and allocation of brokerage commissions derived from trading the Fund’s portfolio securities (if any); and the nature, quality and extent of the advisory and other services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates. The Board also considered the preferences and expectations of Fund shareholders; the entrepreneurial and other risks assumed by the Adviser in sponsoring and managing the Fund; the continuing state of competition in the mutual fund industry and market practices; the range of comparable fees for similar funds in the mutual fund industry; the Fund’s relationship to the other funds advised by Federated Hermes (each, a “Federated Hermes Fund”), which include a comprehensive array of funds with different investment objectives, policies and strategies which are generally available for exchange without the incurrence of additional sales charges; compliance and audit reports concerning the Federated Hermes Funds and the Federated Hermes’ affiliates that service them (including communications from regulatory agencies), as well as Federated Hermes’ responses to any issues raised therein; and relevant developments in the mutual fund industry and how the Federated Hermes Funds and/or Federated Hermes may be responding to them. In addition, the Board received and considered information furnished by Federated Hermes on the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak on Federated Hermes generally and the Fund in particular, including, among other information, the current and anticipated impacts on the management, operations and performance of the Fund. The Board noted that its evaluation process is evolutionary and that the criteria considered and the emphasis placed on relevant criteria may change in recognition of changing circumstances in the mutual fund marketplace.
The Board also considered judicial decisions concerning allegedly excessive investment advisory fees in determining to approve the Contract. Using these judicial decisions as a guide, the Board observed that the following factors may be relevant to an adviser’s fiduciary duty with respect to its receipt of
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compensation from a fund: (1) the nature and quality of the services provided by an adviser to a fund and its shareholders (including the performance of the fund, its benchmark, and comparable funds); (2) an adviser’s cost of providing the services (including the profitability to an adviser of providing advisory services to a fund); (3) the extent to which an adviser may realize “economies of scale” as a fund grows larger and, if such economies of scale exist, whether they have been shared with a fund and its shareholders or the family of funds; (4) any “fall-out” financial benefits that accrue to an adviser because of its relationship with a fund (including research services received from brokers that execute fund trades and any fees paid to affiliates of an adviser for services rendered to a fund); (5) comparative fee and expense structures (including a comparison of fees paid to an adviser with those paid by similar funds both internally and externally as well as management fees charged to institutional and other advisory clients of the adviser for what might be viewed as like services); and (6) the extent of care, conscientiousness and independence with which the fund’s board members perform their duties and their expertise (including whether they are fully informed about all facts the board deems relevant to its consideration of an adviser’s services and fees). The Board noted that the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) disclosure requirements regarding the basis for a fund board’s approval of the fund’s investment advisory contracts generally align with the factors listed above. The Board was aware of these factors and was guided by them in its review of the Contract to the extent it considered them to be appropriate and relevant, as discussed further below.
The Board considered and weighed these factors in light of its substantial accumulated experience in governing the Fund and working with Federated Hermes on matters relating to the Federated Hermes Funds. While individual members of the Board may have weighed certain factors differently, the Board’s determination to continue the Contract was based on a comprehensive consideration of all information provided to the Board throughout the year and specifically with respect to the continuation of the Contract. The Independent Trustees were assisted throughout the evaluation process by independent legal counsel. In connection with their deliberations at the May Meetings, the Independent Trustees met separately in executive session with their independent legal counsel and without management present to review the relevant materials and consider their responsibilities under applicable laws. In addition, senior management representatives of Federated Hermes also met with the Independent Trustees and their independent legal counsel to discuss the materials and presentations furnished to the Board at the May Meetings. The Board considered the approval of the Contract for the Fund as part of its consideration of agreements for funds across the Federated Hermes Funds family, but its approvals were made on a fund-by-fund basis.
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Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and the resources of the Adviser and its affiliates dedicated to the Fund. In this regard, the Board evaluated, among other things, the Adviser’s personnel, experience and track record, as well as the financial resources and overall reputation of Federated Hermes and its willingness to invest in personnel and infrastructure that benefit the Federated Hermes Funds. The Board noted the significant acquisition of Hermes Fund Managers Limited by Federated Hermes in 2018, which has deepened the organization’s investment management expertise and capabilities and expanded the investment process for all of the Federated Hermes Funds to incorporate environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) factors and issuer engagement on ESG matters.
In addition, the Board reviewed the qualifications, backgrounds and responsibilities of the portfolio management team primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund and the Adviser’s ability and experience in attracting and retaining qualified personnel to service the Fund. The Board noted the compliance program of the Adviser and the compliance-related resources devoted by the Adviser and its affiliates in support of the Fund’s obligations pursuant to Rule 38a-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, including the Adviser’s commitment to respond to rulemaking and other regulatory initiatives of the SEC. such as the liquidity risk management program rules. In addition, the Board considered the response by the Adviser to recent market conditions and considered the overall performance of the Adviser in this context. The Fund’s ability to deliver competitive performance when compared to its Performance Peer Group (as defined below) was also deemed to be relevant by the Board as a useful indicator of how the Adviser is executing the Fund’s investment program. The Adviser’s ability to execute this program was one of the Board’s considerations in reaching a conclusion that the nature, extent and quality of the Adviser’s investment management and related services warrant the continuation of the Contract.
Fund Investment Performance
In evaluating the Fund’s investment performance, the Board considered performance results in light of the Fund’s investment objective, strategies and risks, as disclosed in the Fund’s prospectus. The Board also considered the Fund’s performance in light of the overall recent market conditions. The Board considered detailed investment reports on the Fund’s performance over different time periods that were provided to the Board throughout the year and in connection with the May Meetings and evaluated the Adviser’s analysis of the Fund’s performance for these time periods. The Board also reviewed comparative information regarding the performance of other mutual funds in the category of peer funds selected by Morningstar, Inc. (the “Morningstar”), an independent fund ranking organization (the “Performance Peer Group”), noting the CCO’s view that comparisons to fund peer groups may be helpful,
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though not conclusive, in evaluating the performance of the Adviser in managing the Fund. The Board considered, in evaluating such comparisons, that in some cases there may be differences in the funds’ investment objectives or investment management techniques, or the costs to implement funds, even within the same Performance Peer Group. In this connection, the Board considered that the Fund’s quantitative focus makes fee and expense comparisons particularly difficult as the funds in the Performance Peer Group varied widely in their complexity, and the management of the Fund is among the more complex relative to its Performance Peer Group.
For the periods ended December 31, 2019, the Fund’s performance for the three-year period was above the median of the relevant Performance Peer Group, and the Fund’s performance fell below the median of the relevant Performance Peer Group for the one-year and five-year periods. In addition, the Board was informed by the Adviser that, for the same periods, the Fund underperformed its benchmark index for the one-year, three-year and five-year periods. The Board discussed the Fund’s performance with the Adviser and recognized the efforts being taken by the Adviser in the context of other factors considered relevant by the Board.
Following such evaluation, and full deliberations, the Board concluded that the performance of the Fund supported renewal of the Contract.
Fund Expenses
While mindful that courts have cautioned against giving too much weight to comparative information concerning fees charged by other advisers for managing funds with comparable investment programs, the Board has found the use of such comparisons to be relevant to its deliberations. In this regard, the Board was presented with, and considered, information regarding the contractual advisory fee rates, net advisory fee rates, total expense ratios and each element of the Fund’s total expense ratio (i.e., gross and net advisory fees, administrative fees, custody fees, portfolio accounting fees and transfer agency fees) relative to an appropriate group of peer funds compiled by Federated Hermes from the category of peer funds selected by Morningstar (the “Expense Peer Group”). The Board received a description of the methodology used to select the Expense Peer Group from the overall Morningstar category. The Board also reviewed comparative information regarding the fees and expenses of the broader group of funds in the overall Morningstar category. The Board focused on comparisons with other similar mutual funds more heavily than non-mutual fund products or services because such comparisons are believed to be more relevant. The Board considered that other mutual funds are the products most like the Fund, in that they are readily available to Fund shareholders as alternative investment vehicles, and they are the type of
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investment vehicle, in fact, chosen and maintained by the Fund’s investors. The Board noted that the range of their fees and expenses, therefore, appears to be a relevant indicator of what consumers have found to be reasonable in the marketplace in which the Fund competes.
The Board reviewed the contractual advisory fee rate, and other expenses of the Fund and noted the position of the Fund’s fee rates relative to its Expense Peer Group. In this regard, the Board noted that the contractual advisory fee rate was above the median of the relevant Expense Peer Group, but the Board noted the applicable waivers and reimbursements, and that the overall expense structure of the Fund remained competitive in the context of other factors considered by the Board. In this regard, the Board had been previously advised that, while comparisons to its Expense Peer Group are relevant in judging the reasonableness of advisory fees, the Fund’s quantitative focus makes fee and expense comparisons particularly difficult. Although the Fund’s advisory fee was above the median of its Expense Peer Group range, the funds in the Expense Peer Group varied widely in their complexity, and the Board has been informed that the management of the Fund is among the more complex relative to its Expense Peer Group.
For comparison, the Board received and considered information about the fees charged by Federated Hermes for providing advisory services to other types of clients with investment strategies similar to those of the Federated Hermes Funds, including non-mutual fund clients such as institutional separate accounts and third-party unaffiliated mutual funds for which the Adviser or its affiliates serve as sub-adviser. The Board noted the CCO’s conclusion that mon-mutual fund clients are inherently different products due to the following differences, among others: (i) different types of targeted investors; (ii) different applicable laws and regulations; (iii) different legal structures; (iv) different average account sizes and portfolio management techniques made necessary by different cash flows and different associated costs; (v) the time spent by portfolio managers and their teams (among other personnel across various departments, including legal, compliance and risk management) in reviewing securities pricing, addressing different administrative responsibilities, and addressing different degrees of risk associated with management; and (vi) a variety of different costs. The Board also considered information regarding the differences in the nature of the services required for Federated Hermes to manage its proprietary mutual fund business versus managing a discrete pool of assets as a sub-adviser to another institution’s mutual fund, noting that Federated Hermes generally performs significant additional services and assumes substantially greater risks in managing the Fund and other Federated Hermes Funds than in its role as sub-adviser to an unaffiliated third-party mutual fund. The Board noted that the CCO did not consider the fees for providing advisory services to other types of clients to be determinative in judging the appropriateness of the Federated Hermes Funds’ advisory fees.
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The Board considered the CCO’s view that the services, administrative responsibilities and risks associated with such relationships are quite different than serving as a primary adviser to a fund.
Following such evaluation, and full deliberations, the Board concluded that the fees and expenses of the Fund are reasonable and supported renewal of the Contract.
Profitability and Other Benefits
The Board also received financial information about Federated Hermes, including information regarding the compensation and ancillary (or “fall-out”) benefits Federated Hermes derived from its relationships with the Federated Hermes Funds. This information covered not only the fees under the Federated Hermes Funds’ investment advisory contracts, but also fees received by Federated Hermes’ affiliates for providing other services to the Federated Hermes Funds under separate contracts (e.g., for serving as the Federated Hermes Funds’ administrator and distributor). In this regard, the Board considered that certain of Federated Hermes’ affiliates provide distribution and shareholder services to the Federated Hermes Funds, for which they may be compensated through distribution and servicing fees paid pursuant to Rule 12b-1 plans or otherwise. The Board also received and considered information detailing any indirect benefit Federated Hermes may derive from its receipt of research services from brokers who execute portfolio trades for the Federated Hermes Funds. In addition, the Board considered the fact that, in order for the Federated Hermes Fund to be competitive in the marketplace, the Adviser and its affiliates frequently waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses and have disclosed to Federated Hermes Fund shareholders and/or reported to the Board their intention to do so in the future. Moreover, the Board received and considered regular reports from Federated Hermes throughout the year as to the institution, adjustment or elimination of these voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements.
The Board received and considered information furnished by Federated Hermes, as requested by the CCO, that reported revenues on a fund-by-fund basis and made estimates of the allocation of expenses on a fund-by-fund basis, using allocation methodologies specified by the CCO and described to the Board. The Board considered the CCO’s view that, while these cost allocation reports apply consistent allocation processes, the inherent difficulties in allocating costs continues to cause the CCO to question the precision of the process and to conclude that such reports may be unreliable, because a single change in an allocation estimate may dramatically alter the resulting estimate of cost and/or profitability of a Federated Hermes Fund and may produce unintended consequences. The allocation information, including the CCO’s view that fund-by-fund estimations may be unreliable, was considered in the evaluation by the Board. In addition, the Board considered that, during the prior year, an independent consultant conducted a review of the allocation
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methodologies used by Federated Hermes in estimating profitability for purposes of reporting to the Board in connection with the continuation of the Contract. The Board noted the consultant’s view that, although there is no single best method to allocate expenses, the methodologies used by Federated Hermes are reasonable.
The Board also reviewed information compiled by Federated Hermes comparing its profitability information to other publicly held fund management companies, including information regarding profitability trends over time. The Board considered the CCO’s conclusion that, based on such profitability information, Federated Hermes’ profit margins did not appear to be excessive. The Board also considered the CCO’s view that Federated Hermes appeared financially sound, with the resources necessary to fulfill its obligations under its contracts with the Federated Hermes Funds.
Economies of Scale
The Board received and considered information about the notion of possible realization of “economies of scale” as a fund grows larger, the difficulties of calculating economies of scale at an individual fund level, and the extent to which potential scale benefits are shared with shareholders. In this regard, the Board considered that Federated Hermes has made significant and long-term investments in areas that support all of the Federated Hermes Funds, such as personnel and processes for the portfolio management, trading operations, issuer engagement (including with respect to ESG matters), shareholder services, compliance, business continuity, internal audit and risk management functions, as well as systems technology (including technology relating to cybersecurity) and use of data. The Board noted that Federated Hermes’ investments in these areas are extensive and are designed to provide enhanced services to the Federated Hermes Funds and their shareholders. The Board considered that the benefits of these investments (as well as the benefits of any economies of scale, should they exist) are likely to be shared with the Federated Hermes Fund family as a whole. In addition, the Board considered that the Adviser and its affiliates have frequently waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses for the Federated Hermes Funds and that such waivers and reimbursements are another means for potential economies of scale to be shared with shareholders and can provide protection from an increase in expenses if a Federated Hermes Fund’s assets decline. Federated Hermes, as it does throughout the year, and specifically in connection with the Board’s review of the Contract, furnished information relative to adviser-paid fees (commonly referred to as revenue sharing). The Board considered the beliefs of Federated Hermes and the CCO that this information should be viewed to determine if there was an incentive to either not apply breakpoints or to apply breakpoints, at higher levels and should not be viewed to determine the appropriateness of advisory fees. The Board also noted the absence of any
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applicable regulatory or industry guidelines on this subject, which is compounded by the lack of any common industry practice or general pattern with respect to structuring fund advisory fees with “breakpoints” that serve to reduce the fee as a fund attains a certain size.
Conclusions
The Board considered the CCO’s conclusion that his observations and the information accompanying the CCO Fee Evaluation Report show that the management fee for the Fund was reasonable and the CCO’s recommendation that the Board approve the management fee. The Board noted that, under these circumstances, no changes were recommended to, and no objection was raised to the continuation of, the Contract by the CCO. The CCO also recognized that the Board’s evaluation of the Federated Hermes Funds’ advisory and subadvisory arrangements is a continuing and on-going process that is informed by the information that the Board requests and receives from management throughout the course of the year and, in this regard, the CCO noted certain items for future reporting to the Board or further consideration by management as the Board continues its on-going oversight of the Federated Hermes Funds.
In its determination to continue an existing investment advisory contract, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision to terminate or not renew an investment advisory contract. In particular, the Board recognized that many shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Adviser’s industry standing and reputation and with the expectation that the Adviser will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund. Thus, the Board’s approval of the Contract reflected the fact that it is the shareholders who have effectively selected the Adviser by virtue of having invested in the Fund. The Board concluded that, in light of the factors summarized above, including the nature, quality and scope of the services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates, continuation of the Contract was appropriate.
The Board based its determination to approve the Contract on the totality of the circumstances and relevant factors and with a view to past and future long-term considerations. Not all of the factors and considerations identified above were necessarily deemed to be relevant to the Fund, nor did the Board consider any one of them to be determinative. With respect to the factors that were deemed to be relevant, the Board’s determination to approve the continuation of the Contract reflects its view that Federated Hermes’ performance and actions provided a satisfactory basis to support the determination to continue the existing arrangement.
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Liquidity Risk Management Program Annual Evaluation of Adequacy and Effectiveness
In accordance with Rule 22e-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Liquidity Rule”), Federated Hermes MDT Series (the “Trust”) has adopted and implemented a liquidity risk management program (the “LRMP”) for Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund” and collectively with the Federated Hermes funds, the “Funds”). The LRMP seeks to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk. “Liquidity risk” is defined under the Liquidity Rule as the risk that the Fund is unable to meet redemption requests without significantly diluting remaining investors’ interests in the Fund. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) has approved the designation of the Funds’ investment advisers as the administrators for the LRMP (collectively, the “Administrator”). The Administrator has established a Liquidity Risk Management Committee (the “Committee”) comprised of representatives from various departments across the Administrator to assist it in the implementation and on-going administration of the LRMP. The Committee, in turn, has delegated to the Fixed Income and Equities Liquidity Committees, each a separate committee previously established by the Administrator, the responsibility to review and assess certain information related to the liquidity of the Funds that fall within their respective asset classes.
The Program is comprised of various components designed to support the assessment and/or management of liquidity risk, including: (1) the periodic assessment (no less frequently than annually) of certain factors that influence the Fund’s liquidity risk; (2) the periodic classification (no less frequently than monthly) of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories that reflect an estimate of their liquidity under current market conditions; (3) a 15% limit on the acquisition of “illiquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule); (4) to the extent a Fund does not invest primarily in “highly liquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule), the determination of a minimum percentage of the Fund’s assets that generally will be invested in highly liquid investments (an “HLIM”); (5) if a Fund has established an HLIM, the periodic review (no less frequently than annually) of the HLIM and the adoption of policies and procedures for responding to a shortfall of the Fund’s highly liquid investments below its HLIM; and (6) periodic reporting to the Board.
At its meetings in May 2020, the Board received and reviewed a written report from the Funds’ Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Risk Officer, on behalf of the Administrator, concerning the operation of the LRMP for the period from the LRMP’s inception on December 1, 2018 through March 31, 2020 (the “Period”). The Report addressed the operation of the LRMP and assessed its adequacy and effectiveness, including, where applicable, the operation of any HLIM established for a Fund. There were no
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material changes to the LRMP during the Period. The Report summarized the operation of the Program and the information and factors considered by the Administrator in assessing whether the Program has been adequately and effectively implemented with respect to the Funds. Such information and factors included, among other things:
■  the liquidity risk framework used to assess, manage, and periodically review each Fund’s liquidity risk and the results of this assessment, including a review of the Funds’ access to other available funding sources such as the Funds’ interfund lending facility, redemptions in-kind and committed lines of credit and confirmation that the Fund did not have to access any of these alternative funding sources during the Period;
■  the periodic classifications of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories and the methodologies and inputs used to classify the investments, including the Fund’s reasonably anticipated trade size;
■  the analysis received from a third-party liquidity assessment vendor that is taken into account in the process of determining the liquidity classifications of the Fund’s investments and the results of an evaluation of the services performed by the vendor in support of this process;
■  the fact that the Fund invested primarily in highly liquid investments during the Period and, therefore, was not required to establish, and has not established, an HLIM and the procedures for monitoring the status of the Fund as investing primarily in highly liquid investments;
■  the fact that the Fund invested no more than 15% of its assets in illiquid investments during the Period and the procedures for monitoring this limit; and
■  liquidity events during the Period, including the impact on liquidity caused by extended non-U.S. market closures and the market disruptions resulting from the novel coronavirus outbreak, and the fact that there were no specific liquidity events during the Period that materially affected the Fund’s liquidity risk.
Based on this review, the Administrator concluded that the LRMP is operating effectively to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk, and that the Program has been and continues to be adequately and effectively implemented to monitor and, as applicable, respond to the Fund’s liquidity developments.
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Voting Proxies on Fund Portfolio Securities
A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies, if any, relating to securities held in the Fund’s portfolio is available, without charge and upon request, by calling 1-800-341-7400. A report on “Form N-PX” of how the Fund voted any such 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.
Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
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.
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Mutual funds are not bank deposits or obligations, are not 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. Investment in mutual funds involves investment risk, including the possible loss of principal.
This Report is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by the Fund’s Prospectus, which contains facts concerning its objective and policies, management fees, expenses and other information.
Federated Hermes MDT Large Cap Growth 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
CUSIP 31421R700
CUSIP 31421R684
CUSIP 31421R809
CUSIP 31421R882
37329 (9/20)
© 2020 Federated Hermes, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

Annual Shareholder Report
July 31, 2020
Share Class | Ticker A  | QASCX C | QCSCX Institutional | QISCX R6 | QLSCX

Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund
(formerly, Federated MDT Small Cap Core Fund)
Fund Established 2005

A Portfolio of Federated Hermes MDT Series
(formerly, Federated MDT Series)
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING REPORT DELIVERY
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the Fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the Fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Fund or your financial intermediary electronically by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank); other shareholders may call the Fund at 1-800-341-7400, Option 4.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the Fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank); other shareholders may call the Fund at 1-800-341-7400, Option 4. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the Fund complex or your financial intermediary.

Not FDIC Insured ■ May Lose Value ■ No Bank Guarantee

J. Christopher
Donahue
President
Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund
Letter from the President
Dear Valued Shareholder,
I am pleased to present the Annual Shareholder Report for your fund covering the period from August 1, 2019 through July 31, 2020.
As we all confront the unprecedented effects of the coronavirus and the challenges it presents to our families, communities, businesses and the financial markets, I want you to know that everyone at Federated Hermes is dedicated to helping you successfully navigate the markets ahead. You can count on us for the insights, investment management knowledge and client service that you have come to expect. Please refer to our website, FederatedInvestors.com, for timely updates on this and other economic and market matters.
Thank you for investing with us. I hope you find this information useful and look forward to keeping you informed.
Sincerely,
J. Christopher Donahue, President
         


Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (unaudited)
The total return of Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund (the “Fund”), based on net asset value for the 12-month reporting period ended July 31, 2020, was -8.71% for Class A Shares, -9.35% for Class C Shares, -8.45% for Institutional Shares and -8.44% for Class R6 Shares. The total return for the Russell 2000® Index (R2000),1 the Fund’s broad-based securities market index, was -4.59% for the same period. The total return of the Morningstar Small Blend Funds Average (MSBFA),2 a peer group average for the Fund, was -8.80% during the same period. The Fund’s and MSBFA’s total returns for the most recently completed fiscal year reflected actual cash flows, transaction costs and other expenses, which were not reflected in the total return of the R2000.
During the reporting period, the Fund’s investment strategy focused on stock selection. This was the most significant factor affecting the Fund’s performance relative to the R2000 during the period.
The following discussion will focus on the performance of the Fund’s Class R6 Shares relative to the R2000.
MARKET OVERVIEW
The twelve months of this reporting period, culminating with the COVID-19 pandemic, saw huge volatility in the domestic market. Despite the dramatic decline and recovery in the first half of 2020, the whole market Russell 3000® Index3 was up 10.93% for the full period. However, looking more deeply at the subindexes revealed the wildness of the market. Large caps dominated small caps:4 the mega-cap Russell Top 200® Index5 returned 15.84%, while the Russell Midcap® Index6 returned 2.04% and the small-cap Russell 2000® Index7 returned -5.57%. In addition, once again, growth dominated value: the Russell 3000® Growth Index8 returned 28.24% while the Russell 3000® Value Index9 returned -6.67%. The largest spread between growth and value in one capitalization range this year was almost 38 percentage points: the mega-cap Russell Top 200® Growth Index10 returned 33.06% while the Russell Top 200® Value11 Index returned -4.80%.
The best performing sectors in the R2000 during the reporting period were Health Care (18.62%), Information Technology (10.65%) and Consumer Staples (6.89%). Underperforming sectors during the same period included Energy (-53.67%), Financials (-24.38%) and Communication Services (-19.04%).
STOCK SELECTION
The Fund buys stocks with many different combinations of fundamental and technical characteristics that have signaled market outperformance historically. The primary cause of underperformance in the reporting period was the Fund’s underweight of stocks with very low cash flow, and weak stock selection
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among those stocks. For most of the year, the market was bidding up growth stocks with poor cash flow, as it was, for most of the year, a growth-leaning market. More recently, the market was investing in biotechnology stocks in hopes of finding a COVID-19 cure or vaccine. The Fund tends to avoid stocks with low cash flow and poor analyst conviction, cherry-picking among them for those that look stronger according to our complete set of fundamental and technical factors, so it missed many of the biotechnology stocks or sold out of them too early as they began to be expensive. The Fund’s sector exposures continued to remain close to R2000 weights; there were no significant overweights or underweights at the end of the fiscal year. Weak stock selection in the Health Care sector contributed the most to the Fund’s underperformance. Favorable stock selection in the Real Estate and Consumer Discretionary sectors provided a partial offset.
Individual stocks enhancing the Fund’s performance during the reporting period included Wingstop, Inc., Aaron’s, Inc. and Five9, Inc.
Individual stocks detracting from the Fund’s performance during the reporting period included Atkore International Group Inc., Jack in the Box Inc., and Whiting Petroleum Corporation.
1 Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the R2000.
2 Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the MSBFA.
3 The Russell 3000® Index measures the performance of the largest 3,000 U.S. companies representing approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equity market. The Russell 3000® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad market, and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected.*
4 Small-cap stocks may be less liquid and subject to greater price volatility than large-cap stocks.
5 The Russell Top 200® Index measures the performance of the largest cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell Top 200® Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index. It includes approximately 200 of the largest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership and represents approximately 68% of the U.S. market. The Russell Top 200® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for this very large cap segment and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected.*
6 The Russell Midcap® Index measures the performance of the mid-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell Midcap® Index is a subset of the Russell 1000® Index. It includes approximately 800 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The Russell Midcap® Index represents approximately 31% of the total market capitalization of the Russell 1000® companies. The Russell Midcap® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for the mid-cap segment. The Russell Midcap Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true mid-cap opportunity set.*
7 The Russell 2000® Index measures the performance of the small-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell 2000® Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index representing approximately 10% of the total market capitalization of that index. It includes approximately 2000 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The Russell 2000® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased small-cap barometer and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true small-cap opportunity set.*
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8 The Russell 3000® Growth Index measures the performance of the broad growth segment of the U.S. equity universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. The Russell 3000® Growth Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad growth market. The Russell 3000® Growth Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect growth characteristics.*
9 The Russell 3000® Value Index measures the performance of the broad value segment of U.S. equity value universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. The Russell 3000® Value Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad value market. The Russell 3000® Value Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect value characteristics.*
10 The Russell Top 200® Growth Index measures the performance of the especially large cap segment of the U.S. equity universe represented by stocks in the largest 200 by market cap. It includes Russell Top 200® Index companies with higher growth earning potential as defined by Russell’s leading style methodology.*
11 The Russell Top 200® Value Index measures the performance of the especially large cap segment of the U.S. equity universe represented by stocks in the largest 200 by market cap. It includes Russell Top 200® Index companies with value characteristics as defined by Russell’s leading style methodology.*
* The index is unmanaged, and it is not possible to invest directly in an index.
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3

FUND PERFORMANCE AND GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT
The graph below illustrates the hypothetical investment of $10,0001 in the Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund from July 31, 2010 to July 31, 2020, compared to the Russell 2000® Index (R2000)2 and the Morningstar Small Blend Funds Average (MSBFA).3 The Average Annual Total Return table below shows returns for each class averaged over the stated periods.
Growth of a $10,000 INVESTMENT
Growth of $10,000 as of July 31, 2020
■  Total returns shown for Class C Shares include the maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00%, as applicable.
The Fund offers multiple shares classes whose performance may be greater than or less than its other share class(es) due to differences in sales charges and expenses. See the Average Annual Total Returns table below for the returns of additional classes not shown in the line graph above.
Average Annual Total Returns for the Periods Ended 7/31/2020
(returns reflect all applicable sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges as specified below in footnote #1)
  1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
Class A Shares -13.74% 4.94% 10.84%
Class C Shares -10.26% 5.35% 10.64%
Institutional Shares -8.45% 6.41% 11.75%
Class R6 Shares4 -8.44% 6.34% 10.92%
R2000 -4.59% 5.10% 10.07%
MSBFA -8.80% 3.57% 9.05%
Annual Shareholder Report
4

Performance data quoted represents past performance which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Mutual fund performance changes over time and current performance may be lower or higher than what is stated. For current to the most recent month-end performance and after-tax returns, visit FederatedInvestors.com or call 1-800-341-7400. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Mutual funds are not obligations of or guaranteed by any bank and are not federally insured.
1 Represents a hypothetical investment of $10,000 in the Fund after deducting applicable sales charges: for Class A Shares, the maximum sales charge of 5.50% ($10,000 investment minus $550 sales charge = $9,450); for Class C Shares, a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge would be applied on any redemption less than one year from the purchase date. The Fund’s performance assumes the reinvestment of all dividends and distributions. The R2000 and MSBFA have been adjusted to reflect reinvestment of dividends on securities.
2 The R2000 measures the performance of the small-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The R2000 is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index representing approximately 10% of the total market capitalization of that index. It includes approximately 2000 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The R2000 is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased small-cap barometer, and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true small-cap opportunity set. The R2000 is unmanaged and, unlike the Fund, is not affected by cash flows. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. The R2000 is not adjusted to reflect sales charges, expenses or other fees that the Securities and Exchange Commission requires to be reflected in the Fund’s performance.
3 Morningstar figures represent the average of the total returns reported by all the funds designated by Morningstar as falling into the respective category indicated. They do not reflect sales charges. The Morningstar figures in the Growth of $10,000 line graph are based on historical return information published by Morningstar and reflect the return of the funds comprising the category in the year of publication. Because the funds designated by Morningstar as falling into the category can change over time, the Morningstar figures in the line graph may not match the Morningstar figures in the Average Annual Total Returns table, which reflect the return of the funds that currently comprise the category.
4 The Fund’s R6 Class commenced operations on June 29, 2016. It is anticipated that this class will have the lowest net expenses of all outstanding share classes. For the period prior to the commencement of operations of the R6 class, the R6 class performance information shown is for the Institutional Share class, adjusted to reflect the expenses of the Fund’s R6 class for each period for which the Fund’s R6 class gross expenses would have exceeded the actual expense paid by the Fund’s Institutional Share class.
Annual Shareholder Report
5

Portfolio of Investments Summary Table (unaudited)
At July 31, 2020, the Fund’s sector composition1 was as follows:
Sector Composition Percentage of
Total Net Assets
Health Care 19.2%
Financials 16.5%
Information Technology 14.0%
Industrials 13.5%
Consumer Discretionary 13.5%
Real Estate 7.1%
Communication Services 3.7%
Consumer Staples 3.5%
Materials 3.1%
Utilities 2.9%
Energy 2.3%
Securities Lending Collateral2 9.1%
Cash Equivalents3 1.4%
Other Assets and Liabilities—Net4 (9.8)%
TOTAL 100.0%
1 Except for Securities Lending Collateral, Cash Equivalents and Other Assets and Liabilities, sector classifications are based upon, and individual portfolio securities are assigned to, the classifications of the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) except that the Adviser assigns a classification to securities not classified by the GICS and to securities for which the Adviser does not have access to the classification made by the GICS.
2 Represents cash collateral received for portfolio securities on loan that may be invested in affiliated money market funds, other money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements.
3 Cash Equivalents include any investments in money market mutual funds and/or overnight repurchase agreements other than those representing cash collateral for securities lending.
4 Assets, other than investments in securities, less liabilities. See Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
Annual Shareholder Report
6

Portfolio of Investments
July 31, 2020
Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—99.3%  
    Communication Services—3.7%  
101,875 1 AMC Networks, Inc. $2,353,313
24,255 1,2 Bandwidth, Inc. 3,511,639
856,577 1 Cars.com, Inc. 6,955,405
72,313   Cogent Communications Holdings, Inc. 6,516,124
210,392 1 Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc. 1,535,862
814,190 2 Emerald Holding, Inc. 2,214,597
37,005 1 EverQuote, Inc. 2,014,922
78,854 1 Yelp, Inc. 1,969,773
    TOTAL 27,071,635
    Consumer Discretionary—13.5%  
29,428 1,2 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. 831,341
132,883   Aaron’s, Inc. 6,933,835
354,304 1 American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. 2,501,386
26,092 1,2 Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. 2,613,114
56,728   BBX Capital Corporation 789,654
79,219   Big Lots, Inc. 3,116,475
188,218 2 Camping World Holdings, Inc. 6,892,543
59,327 1,2 Chegg, Inc. 4,803,707
312,195 1,2 Cooper-Standard Holding, Inc. 3,343,608
104,589 2 Dillards, Inc., Class A 2,463,071
130,331 1,2 Fossil, Inc. 431,396
9,276 1,2 Francesca’s Holdings Corp. 51,482
240,584 1,2 Funko, Inc. 1,332,835
191,197 1 G-III Apparel Group Ltd. 1,890,938
101,876 1,2 Groupon, Inc. 1,563,797
411,614 1 Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Co. 1,218,377
38,387 1 Installed Building Products, Inc. 3,036,796
9,835   Jack in the Box, Inc. 807,552
214,266 1 Laureate Education, Inc. 2,716,893
394,460 2 Macy’s, Inc. 2,390,428
24,181 1,2 Meritage Corp. 2,398,272
462,310 1 Modine Manufacturing Co. 2,514,966
79,393   Movado Group, Inc. 765,349
7,149 1 Murphy USA, Inc. 946,599
62,693   ODP Corp./The 1,383,635
Annual Shareholder Report
7

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Consumer Discretionary—continued  
28,848   Papa John’s International, Inc. $2,731,040
19,131 1 Perdoceo Education Corp. 275,486
180,615   Rent-A-Center, Inc. 5,223,386
17,041 1 Skyline Corp. 481,067
187,565   Steven Madden Ltd. 3,972,627
299,051 2 Tupperware Brands Corp. 4,614,357
47,121 1 WW International, Inc. 1,214,779
107,358 2 Wingstop, Inc. 16,774,687
91,973 1 YETI Holdings, Inc. 4,496,560
    TOTAL 97,522,038
    Consumer Staples—3.5%  
121,712 2 B&G Foods, Inc., Class A 3,518,694
172,142 1 BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. 6,894,287
110,355 1,2 Celsius Holdings, Inc. 1,618,908
57,731 1 Central Garden & Pet Co., Class A 2,000,379
140,348 1 elf Beauty, Inc. 2,506,615
26,598 1 Freshpet, Inc. 2,554,738
31,917   Ingles Markets, Inc., Class A 1,284,659
101,184 2 Inter Parfums, Inc. 4,137,414
29,343   SpartanNash Co. 616,937
27,430 1,2 United Natural Foods, Inc. 544,485
    TOTAL 25,677,116
    Energy—2.3%  
55,232 2 Arch Resources, Inc. 1,713,297
279,889 1,2 CONSOL Energy, Inc. 1,645,747
105,185   CVR Energy, Inc. 2,019,552
50,456 2 DMC Global, Inc. 1,482,397
111,305 1 Gulf Island Fabrication, Inc. 329,463
332,604 1,2 Gulfport Energy Corp. 335,930
362,889 1 Newpark Resources, Inc. 685,860
218,333 1 Oceaneering International, Inc. 1,227,031
493,449 1 Oil States International, Inc. 2,210,651
1,079,141   Peabody Energy Corp. 3,366,920
201,818   SFL Corporation Ltd. 1,677,108
43,980 1,2 Tidewater, Inc. 273,556
    TOTAL 16,967,512
    Financials—16.5%  
35,148   1st Source Corp. 1,164,102
Annual Shareholder Report
8

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Financials—continued  
25,434   American Equity Investment Life Holding Co. $647,295
36,399   Argo Group International Holdings Ltd. 1,219,731
32,280   Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc. 1,169,504
44,567   BancFirst Corp. 1,941,339
202,302   Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc. 2,014,928
446,227 1 Blucora, Inc. 5,261,016
100,194   Brightsphere Investment Group, Inc. 1,346,607
39,053   Brookline Bancorp, Inc. 374,714
53,781   CNO Financial Group, Inc. 812,093
95,190   Donegal Group, Inc., Class A 1,330,756
45,420   Eagle Bancorp, Inc. 1,366,234
41,227   Employers Holdings, Inc. 1,340,702
272,495 1 Ezcorp, Inc., Class A 1,558,671
54,486   Financial Institutions, Inc. 804,758
465,338 2 First BanCorp 2,531,439
272,091   First Bancorp, Inc. 5,621,400
39,672   First Cash, Inc. 2,286,694
145,788   First Foundation, Inc. 2,240,762
49,068 1 Goosehead Insurance, Inc. 5,070,196
31,706 1 Green Dot Corp. 1,607,177
46,590   Heartland Financial USA, Inc. 1,455,472
25,053   HomeStreet, Inc. 662,401
110,084 2 Horace Mann Educators Corp. 4,136,957
38,484   Independent Bank Corp.- Michigan 537,429
707,766   Investors Bancorp, Inc. 5,747,060
47,334 2 Kinsale Capital Group, Inc. 9,225,397
215,531   Meridian Bancorp, Inc. 2,458,131
364,356 1 NMI Holdings, Inc. 5,654,805
10,297 1 Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. 576,838
240,971   Northwest Bancshares, Inc. 2,373,564
99,532   Pacific Premier Bancorp, Inc. 2,091,167
29,016 1,2 Palomar Holdings, Inc. 2,650,321
152,400   Peapack-Gladstone Financial Corp. 2,481,072
71,155 2 Pennymac Financial Services, Inc. 3,433,940
63,543   Premier Financial Corp. 1,123,440
305,538   ProAssurance Corp. 4,491,409
146,879   QCR Holdings, Inc. 4,388,745
52,850   Radian Group, Inc. 788,522
Annual Shareholder Report
9

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Financials—continued  
257,500 2 Selective Insurance Group, Inc. $13,992,550
69,635   State Auto Financial Corp. 1,080,039
41,900   TriCo Bancshares 1,173,200
21,310   UMB Financial Corp. 1,061,238
135,296   Waterstone Financial, Inc. 2,067,323
134,084   Western New England Bancorp, Inc. 675,783
171,039 2 WisdomTree Investments, Inc. 615,740
32,102 1,2 World Acceptance Corp. 2,385,179
    TOTAL 119,037,840
    Health Care—19.2%  
121,929 1 ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 3,610,318
14,082 1 Acceleron Pharma, Inc. 1,396,512
627,148 1,2 Acorda Therapeutics, Inc. 394,351
66,205 1,3 Adeptus Health, Inc., Class A 0
40,232 1 Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc. 674,691
187,426 1 Akebia Therapeutics, Inc. 2,093,548
36,566 1 Allogene Therapeutics, Inc. 1,340,875
85,046 1 Amphastar Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1,702,621
253,622 1 AnaptysBio, Inc. 4,555,051
175,013 1 AngioDynamics, Inc. 1,445,607
75,854 1,2 Anika Therapeutics, Inc. 2,761,086
74,730 1 Arcus Biosciences, Inc. 1,470,686
545,846 1 Assertio Holdings, Inc. 491,589
54,073 1 AxoGen, Inc. 614,810
29,908 1 Axonics Modulation Technologies, Inc. 1,266,903
49,268 1 Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Co. Ltd. 3,155,123
41,161 1 Bioxcel Therapeutics, Inc. 1,867,063
54,647 2 CONMED Corp. 4,510,563
239,793 1,2 Catalyst Pharmaceutical Partners, Inc. 1,031,110
30,591 1 ChemoCentryx, Inc. 1,612,452
253,239 1,2 Community Health Systems, Inc. 1,261,130
166,048 1 Cue Biopharma, Inc. 3,139,968
111,381 1 Cutera, Inc. 1,584,952
16,986 1,2 Cytokinetics, Inc. 367,237
80,582 1,2 Denali Therapeutics, Inc. 1,887,230
44,343 1 Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 953,375
12,455 1 Enanta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 571,062
93,520 1 Fate Therapeutics, Inc. 2,924,370
Annual Shareholder Report
10

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Health Care—continued  
77,719 1 G1 Therapeutics, Inc. $1,140,138
129,377 1 GlycoMimetics, Inc. 509,745
39,030 1 Gossamer Bio, Inc. 465,238
24,445 1 Haemonetics Corp. 2,142,849
191,406 1 Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. 5,204,329
91,390 1 Inogen, Inc. 2,805,673
106,916 1 Inovalon Holdings, Inc. 2,515,733
16,494 1 Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. 1,638,844
38,927 1,2 Intellia Therapeutics, Inc. 693,290
38,036 1 Intra-Cellular Therapies, Inc. 754,064
169,375 1,2 Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1,553,169
133,667 1 Kala Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1,169,586
135,414 1,2 Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals Ltd. 2,643,281
90,347 1,2 Lannett Co., Inc. 537,565
19,502   LeMaitre Vascular, Inc. 571,994
628,152 1,2 Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1,218,615
23,938 1,2 Livongo Health, Inc. 3,046,111
49,232   Luminex Corp. 1,792,045
59,597 1,2 MEDNAX, Inc. 1,190,748
226,349 1,2 Mallinckrodt PLC 504,758
61,087 1 Medpace Holdings, Inc. 7,290,733
126,978 1 Mersana Therapeutics, Inc. 2,524,323
42,858 1 Molecular Templates, Inc., Class THL 470,152
81,849 1 Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 2,413,727
608,966 1 Myriad Genetics, Inc. 7,350,220
31,800 1 Novavax, Inc. 4,550,580
17,468 1 Omnicell, Inc. 1,227,826
49,927 1,2 Pacira BioSciences, Inc. 2,626,659
22,379 1 Prestige Consumer Healthcare, Inc. 832,275
91,828 1 Prevail Therapeutics, Inc. 1,374,665
151,214 1,2 Puma Biotechnology, Inc. 1,559,016
90,701 1 Recro Pharma, Inc. 370,967
27,670 1 Retrophin, Inc. 550,080
15,572 1 Rocket Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 366,409
80,581 1 Scholar Rock Holding Corp. 909,760
21,753 1,2 Schrodinger, Inc. 1,574,482
241,027 1 Select Medical Holdings Corp. 4,589,154
31,817 1 Shockwave Medical, Inc. 1,569,214
Annual Shareholder Report
11

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Health Care—continued  
24,178 1 Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. $538,323
24,373 1 Syneos Health, Inc. 1,520,631
172,572 1,2 Tg Therapeutics, Inc. 3,378,960
18,387 1 Turning Point Therapeutics, Inc. 1,089,062
17,669 1 Twist Bioscience Corp. 990,171
28,414 1 Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical, Inc. 2,220,838
66,896 1 Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 674,312
122,006 1,2 Voyager Therapeutics, Inc. 1,350,606
38,589 1 Xencor, Inc. 1,161,143
35,611 1 Y-mAbs Therapeutics, Inc. 1,251,014
38,567 1 Zogenix, Inc. 917,509
28,995 1,2 Zynex, Inc. 554,384
    TOTAL 138,579,253
    Industrials—13.5%  
225,173   AAR Corp. 3,877,479
124,356   Advanced Drainage System, Inc. 6,093,444
60,054 1 Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc. 2,477,227
68,682   Albany International Corp., Class A 3,302,231
277,324   Apogee Enterprises, Inc. 5,987,425
20,219   ArcBest Corp. 614,455
14,528   Arcosa, Inc. 613,372
331,577 1 Astronics Corp. 2,884,720
118,737 1,2 Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. 6,183,823
47,163   Barnes Group, Inc. 1,738,900
72,033 1 Builders Firstsource, Inc. 1,706,462
255,877 1 CECO Environmental Corp. 1,714,376
284,514   Costamare, Inc. 1,294,539
164,541 1 Echo Global Logistics, Inc. 4,124,220
53,709   Exponent, Inc. 4,514,779
293,561 2 Fluor Corp. 2,991,387
341,049 1 Foundation Building Materials, Inc. 4,682,603
94,660 1 Franklin Covey Co. 1,712,399
138,567 1 GMS, Inc. 3,246,625
346,355 2 Granite Construction, Inc. 5,874,181
69,230 1 Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corp. 578,763
41,957   Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc. 848,790
33,816   Helios Technologies, Inc. 1,279,259
83,785   Hurco Co., Inc. 2,324,196
Annual Shareholder Report
12

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Industrials—continued  
271,687 1 MRC Global, Inc. $1,616,538
114,392 1,2 Mastec, Inc. 4,550,514
246,857 1 Mistras Group, Inc. 871,405
299,723 1 Now, Inc. 2,361,817
18,210   Rexnord Corp. 527,544
28,753 1 Siteone Landscape Supply, Inc. 3,681,247
150,360 1 Standard Plus Corp. 2,389,220
103,808   Steelcase, Inc., Class A 1,113,860
251,670 1 Team, Inc. 994,096
6,832   Tennant Co. 455,148
46,015   The Shyft Group, Inc. 868,763
175,241 1 Titan Machinery, Inc. 1,903,993
19,617 1,2 Trex Co., Inc. 2,733,237
172,194   Triumph Group, Inc. 1,167,475
5,661   Unifirst Corp. 1,055,663
39,465 1 Veritiv Corp. 604,209
    TOTAL 97,560,384
    Information Technology—14.0%  
79,092 1 Amkor Technology, Inc. 1,075,256
78,182 1,2 Avaya Holdings Corp. 989,784
28,963   Benchmark Electronics, Inc. 589,687
95,173   Blackbaud, Inc. 5,952,119
137,718 1 Box, Inc. 2,472,038
60,258 1 Calix, Inc. 1,235,892
20,273 1 Commvault Systems, Inc. 893,634
108,606   Comtech Telecommunications Corp. 1,783,311
2,639,412 1 Conduent, Inc. 5,041,277
23,983 1 Cornerstone OnDemand, Inc. 851,636
82,990 1 Domo, Inc. 2,670,618
11,140 1 Envestnet, Inc. 904,568
36,917   Evertec, Inc. 1,146,273
21,121 1 Five9, Inc. 2,551,839
82,152 1 FormFactor, Inc. 2,369,264
146,238 1,2 GTT Communications, Inc. 921,299
127,518 1 Inphi Corp. 16,661,502
21,508 1,2 Intelligent Systems Corp. 652,123
16,305 1 j2 Global, Inc. 924,820
199,330 1,2 MA-COM Technology Solutions Holdings, Inc. 8,423,686
Annual Shareholder Report
13

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Information Technology—continued  
97,675   MTS Systems Corp. $1,811,871
89,685   ManTech International Corp., Class A 6,240,282
15,067 1 MaxLinear, Inc. 381,948
119,896 1,2 Model N, Inc. 4,611,200
77,924 1 NeoPhotonics Corp. 709,888
13,244 1 Netgear, Inc. 407,253
20,124 1 OSI Systems, Inc. 1,427,999
33,331   Perspecta, Inc. 713,283
264,383 2 Plantronics, Inc. 5,285,016
10,053 1 Qualys, Inc. 1,241,344
60,593 1 SPS Commerce, Inc. 4,554,776
111,632 1 SVMK, Inc. 2,676,935
71,518 1 SailPoint Technologies Holding 2,252,817
13,821   Science Applications International Corp. 1,105,404
133,238 1,2 Secureworks Corp. 1,593,527
21,216 1 Sitime Corp. 1,127,630
51,536 1 Sprout Social, Inc. 1,488,875
211,152 1,2 Synchronoss Technologies, Inc. 696,802
32,780   TTEC Holdings, Inc. 1,555,739
63,766 1 Tenable Holdings, Inc. 2,163,580
6,655 1,2 Varonis Systems, Inc. 721,069
    TOTAL 100,877,864
    Materials—3.1%  
264,258 1,2 Allegheny Technologies, Inc. 2,296,402
83,456   Boise Cascade Co. 3,888,215
26,780   Carpenter Technology Corp. 598,801
93,255   Commercial Metals Corp. 1,928,513
26,194   Domtar, Corp. 549,812
63,400   Fuller (H.B.) Co. 2,874,556
27,762   Haynes International, Inc. 509,710
18,186 1 Ingevity Corp. 1,063,517
61,688 1 Koppers Holdings, Inc. 1,552,687
155,575   Myers Industries, Inc. 2,342,959
76,006   O-I Glass, Inc. 793,503
178,898   SunCoke Energy, Inc. 570,685
74,498   Trinseo SA 1,616,607
122,955   Verso Corp. 1,501,281
    TOTAL 22,087,248
Annual Shareholder Report
14

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Real Estate—7.1%  
58,810   Alexander and Baldwin, Inc. $695,134
161,131 2 CIM Commercial Trust Corp. 1,643,536
38,011   CareTrust REIT, Inc. 684,958
347,864   Chatham Lodging Trust 1,812,371
254,036   CoreCivic, Inc. 2,263,461
61,954 2 CorEnergy Infrastructure Trust, Inc. 542,717
351,268   Easterly Government Properties, Inc. 8,588,503
489,041   Independence Realty Trust 5,623,972
50,305   LTC Properties, Inc. 1,868,831
142,352 2 QTS Realty Trust, Inc. 10,242,226
195,928   RMR Group, Inc./The 5,634,889
120,106 1,2 Redfin Corp. 4,994,008
296,791   Sabra Health Care REIT, Inc. 4,374,699
218,754   Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc. 1,636,280
69,093   Whitestone Project 456,014
    TOTAL 51,061,599
    Utilities—2.9%  
44,423   Allete, Inc. 2,634,284
6,223 2 Chesapeake Utilities Corp. 525,781
171,167   Clearway Energy, Inc. 3,921,436
311,036   Portland General Electric Co. 13,726,019
    TOTAL 20,807,520
    TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(IDENTIFIED COST $663,991,472)
717,250,009
    INVESTMENT COMPANIES—10.5%  
31,624,077   Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund, Premier Shares, 0.10%4 31,624,077
44,494,142   Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Institutional Shares, 0.21%4 44,520,839
    TOTAL INVESTMENT COMPANIES
(IDENTIFIED COST $76,142,738)
76,144,916
    TOTAL INVESTMENT IN SECURITIES—109.8%
(IDENTIFIED COST $740,134,210)5
793,394,925
    OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES - NET—(9.8)%6 (70,656,549)
    TOTAL NET ASSETS—100% $722,738,376
Annual Shareholder Report
15

[PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]
Annual Shareholder Report
16

An affiliated company is a company in which the Fund, alone or in combination with other funds, has ownership of at least 5% of the voting shares. Transactions with affiliated companies during the period ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Affiliated Balance
of Shares
Held
7/31/2019
Purchases/
Additions*
Sales/
Reductions*
Amphastar Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 85,046
AnaptysBio, Inc. 253,622
Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical, Inc. 31,765 (3,351)
Wingstop, Inc. 33,334 189,374 (115,350)
Affiliated Issuers no longer in the portfolio at period end 69,933 (69,933)
TOTAL OF AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS 33,334 629,740 (188,634)
Annual Shareholder Report
17

Balance
of Shares
Held
7/31/2020
Value Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation/
Depreciation*
Net
Realized
Gain/(Loss)*
Dividend
Income*
85,046 $1,702,621 $(48,459) $$
253,622 $4,555,051 $379,491 $$
28,414 $2,220,838 $112,557 $9,532 $276
107,358 $16,774,687 $7,256,504 $1,063,076 $44,909
$$$711,238 $
474,440 $25,253,197 $7,700,093 $1,783,846 $45,185
* A portion of the amount shown was recorded prior to the Fund having ownership of at least 5% of the voting shares.
Affiliated fund holdings are investment companies which are managed by the Adviser or an affiliate of the Adviser. Transactions with affiliated fund holdings during the period ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
  Federated Hermes
Government
Obligations Fund,
Premier Shares*
Federated Hermes
Institutional
Prime Value
Obligations Fund,
Institutional Shares*
Total of
Affiliated
Transactions
Balance of Shares Held 7/31/2019 37,415,748 84,083,002 121,498,750
Purchases/Additions 298,134,754 603,036,372 901,171,126
Sales/Reductions (303,926,425) (642,625,232) (946,551,657)
Balance of Shares Held 7/31/2020 31,624,077 44,494,142 76,118,219
Value $31,624,077 $44,520,839 $76,144,916
Change in Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation N/A $(72) $(72)
Net Realized Gain/(Loss) N/A $8,150 $8,150
Dividend Income 475,313 970,853 1,446,166
* All or a portion of the balance/activity for the fund relates to cash collateral received on securities lending transactions.
1 Non-income-producing security.
2 All or a portion of these securities are temporarily on loan to unaffiliated broker/dealers.
3 Market quotations and price evaluations are not available. Fair value determined using significant unobservable inputs in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the "Trustees").
4 7-day net yield.
5 The cost of investments for federal tax purposes amounts to $770,602,726.
6 Assets, other than investments in securities, less liabilities. See Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
Note: The categories of investments are shown as a percentage of total net assets at July 31, 2020.
Annual Shareholder Report
18

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
Level 1—quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2—other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). Also includes securities valued at amortized cost.
Level 3—significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of July 31, 2020, in valuing the Fund’s assets carried at fair value:
Valuation Inputs        
  Level 1—
Quoted
Prices
Level 2—
Other
Significant
Observable
Inputs
Level 3—
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
Total
Equity Securities:        
Common Stocks        
 Domestic $705,138,863 $— $0 $705,138,863
 International 12,111,146 12,111,146
Investment Companies 76,144,916 76,144,916
TOTAL SECURITIES $793,394,925 $— $0 $793,394,925
The following acronym is used throughout this portfolio:
REIT —Real Estate Investment Trust
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
19

Financial HighlightsClass A Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $18.87 $21.19 $18.69 $15.08 $15.66
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)1 0.04 0.01 (0.01) (0.02) 0.03
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) (1.68) (1.70) 3.38 3.78 1.02
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS (1.64) (1.69) 3.37 3.76 1.05
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.04)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.63) (0.87) (0.15) (1.63)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (0.04) (0.63) (0.87) (0.15) (1.63)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $17.19 $18.87 $21.19 $18.69 $15.08
Total Return2 (8.71)% (7.69)% 18.49% 24.97% 7.90%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.13% 1.13% 1.14% 1.14% 1.13%
Net investment income (loss) 0.24% 0.07% (0.06)% (0.13)% 0.19%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.31% 0.22% 0.37% 0.55% 1.10%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $78,347 $68,546 $74,396 $37,031 $13,035
Portfolio turnover 223% 121% 88% 91% 189%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
20

Financial HighlightsClass C Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $16.58 $18.84 $16.83 $13.70 $14.48
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)1 (0.08) (0.12) (0.14) (0.14) (0.07)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) (1.47) (1.51) 3.02 3.42 0.92
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS (1.55) (1.63) 2.88 3.28 0.85
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income
Distributions from net realized gain (0.63) (0.87) (0.15) (1.63)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (0.63) (0.87) (0.15) (1.63)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $15.03 $16.58 $18.84 $16.83 $13.70
Total Return2 (9.35)% (8.35)% 17.60% 23.98% 7.12%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.88% 1.88% 1.89% 1.89% 1.88%
Net investment income (loss) (0.51)% (0.69)% (0.81)% (0.89)% (0.56)%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.23% 0.28% 0.38% 0.57% 1.11%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $22,720 $28,411 $30,072 $15,223 $3,422
Portfolio turnover 223% 121% 88% 91% 189%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
21

Financial HighlightsInstitutional Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $19.59 $21.94 $19.30 $15.54 $16.04
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)1 0.09 0.06 0.03 0.02 0.06
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) (1.74) (1.76) 3.50 3.90 1.07
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS (1.65) (1.70) 3.53 3.92 1.13
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.07) (0.02) (0.02)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.63) (0.87) (0.16) (1.63)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (0.07) (0.65) (0.89) (0.16) (1.63)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $17.87 $19.59 $21.94 $19.30 $15.54
Total Return2 (8.45)% (7.45)% 18.78% 25.24% 8.24%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 0.88% 0.88% 0.89% 0.89% 0.88%
Net investment income 0.49% 0.31% 0.13% 0.10% 0.43%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.18% 0.22% 0.34% 0.53% 1.11%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $574,041 $842,221 $708,805 $179,219 $24,529
Portfolio turnover 223% 121% 88% 91% 189%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
22

Financial HighlightsClass R6 Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
  Year Ended July 31, Period
Ended
7/31/20161
2020 2019 2018 2017
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $19.59 $21.94 $19.30 $15.54 $13.88
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)2 0.09 0.06 0.02 0.01 (0.01)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) (1.74) (1.76) 3.51 3.91 1.67
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS (1.65) (1.70) 3.53 3.92 1.66
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net investment income (0.07) (0.02) (0.02)
Distributions from net realized gain (0.63) (0.87) (0.16)
TOTAL DISTRIBUTIONS (0.07) (0.65) (0.89) (0.16)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $17.87 $19.59 $21.94 $19.30 $15.54
Total Return3 (8.44)% (7.45)% 18.78% 25.24% 11.96%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses4 0.87% 0.87% 0.88% 0.88% 0.87%5
Net investment income (loss) 0.49% 0.32% 0.08% 0.04% (0.04)%5
Expense waiver/reimbursement6 0.08% 0.12% 0.26% 0.41% 0.97%5
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $47,631 $33,753 $13,374 $1,017 $07
Portfolio turnover 223% 121% 88% 91% 189%8
1 Reflects operations for the period from June 29, 2016 (date of initial investment) to July 31, 2016.
2 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
3 Based on net asset value. Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized.
4 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 Computed on an annualized basis.
6 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
7 Represents less than $1,000.
8 Portfolio turnover is calculated at the Fund level. Percentage indicated was calculated for the year ended July 31, 2016.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
23

Statement of Assets and Liabilities
July 31, 2020
Assets:    
Investment in securities, at value including $63,130,775 of securities loaned and $76,144,916 of investment in affiliated holdings* (identified cost $740,134,210)   $793,394,925
Income receivable   185,876
Income receivable from affiliated holdings   2,186
Receivable for investments sold   16,725,268
Receivable for shares sold   684,579
TOTAL ASSETS   810,992,834
Liabilities:    
Payable for investments purchased $16,199,182  
Payable for shares redeemed 5,738,151  
Payable for collateral due to broker for securities lending 65,944,077  
Payable for investment adviser fee (Note 5) 14,008  
Payable for administrative fee (Note 5) 1,559  
Payable for distribution services fee (Note 5) 14,219  
Payable for other service fees (Notes 2 and 5) 40,198  
Accrued expenses (Note 5) 303,064  
TOTAL LIABILITIES   88,254,458
Net assets for 40,863,428 shares outstanding   $722,738,376
Net Assets Consist of:    
Paid-in capital   $785,579,052
Total distributable earnings (loss)   (62,840,676)
TOTAL NET ASSETS   $722,738,376
Annual Shareholder Report
24

Statement of Assets and Liabilitiescontinued
Net Asset Value, Offering Price and Redemption Proceeds Per Share    
Class A Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($78,346,521 ÷ 4,556,653 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $17.19
Offering price per share (100/94.50 of $17.19)   $18.19
Redemption proceeds per share   $17.19
Class C Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($22,719,657 ÷ 1,511,985 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $15.03
Offering price per share   $15.03
Redemption proceeds per share (99.00/100 of $15.03)   $14.88
Institutional Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($574,040,945 ÷ 32,129,720 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $17.87
Offering price per share   $17.87
Redemption proceeds per share   $17.87
Class R6 Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($47,631,253 ÷ 2,665,070 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $17.87
Offering price per share   $17.87
Redemption proceeds per share   $17.87
* See information listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
25

Statement of Operations
Year Ended July 31, 2020
Investment Income:      
Dividends (including $190,663 received from affiliated companies and holdings* and net of foreign taxes withheld of $38,118)     $10,119,862
Net income on securities loaned (includes $1,300,688 earned from affiliated company and holdings* related to cash collateral balances) (Note 2)     1,535,522
TOTAL INCOME     11,655,384
Expenses:      
Investment adviser fee (Note 5)   $6,800,894  
Administrative fee (Note 5)   670,710  
Custodian fees   100,857  
Transfer agent fees (Note 2)   1,123,472  
Directors’/Trustees’ fees (Note 5)   6,441  
Auditing fees   28,800  
Legal fees   7,722  
Portfolio accounting fees   153,698  
Distribution services fee (Note 5)   194,337  
Other service fees (Notes 2 and 5)   262,571  
Share registration costs   92,592  
Printing and postage   71,709  
Miscellaneous (Note 5)   37,891  
TOTAL EXPENSES   9,551,694  
Waiver and Reimbursements:      
Waiver/reimbursement of investment adviser fee (Note 5) $(663,439)    
Reimbursement of other operating expenses (Notes 2 and 5) (921,362)    
TOTAL WAIVER AND REIMBURSEMENTS   (1,584,801)  
Net expenses     7,966,893
Net investment income     3,688,491
Annual Shareholder Report
26

Statement of Operationscontinued
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments:      
Net realized loss on investments (including net realized gain of $1,791,996 on sales of investments in affiliated companies and holding*)     $(93,227,069)
Net change in unrealized appreciation of investments (including net change in unrealized appreciation of $7,700,021 on investments in affiliated companies and holding*)     (25,083,286)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments     (118,310,355)
Change in net assets resulting from operations     $(114,621,864)
* See information listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
27

Statement of Changes in Net Assets
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets    
Operations:    
Net investment income $3,688,491 $2,379,523
Net realized loss (93,227,069) (6,860,147)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation (25,083,286) (64,875,679)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS (114,621,864) (69,356,303)
Distributions to Shareholders:    
Class A Shares (241,559) (2,316,631)
Class C Shares (1,156,337)
Institutional Shares (3,139,873) (24,309,562)
Class R6 Shares (217,595) (927,672)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (3,599,027) (28,710,202)
Share Transactions:    
Proceeds from sale of shares 332,219,364 662,037,597
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Funds 244,171,911
Net asset value of shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 3,176,105 26,997,492
Cost of shares redeemed (711,539,671) (444,684,151)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM SHARE TRANSACTIONS (131,972,291) 244,350,938
Change in net assets (250,193,182) 146,284,433
Net Assets:    
Beginning of period 972,931,558 826,647,125
End of period $722,738,376 $972,931,558
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
28

Notes to Financial Statements
July 31, 2020
1. ORGANIZATION
Federated Hermes MDT Series (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust consists of five portfolios. The financial statements included herein are only those of Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund (the “Fund”), a diversified portfolio. The financial statements of the other portfolios are presented separately. The assets of each portfolio are segregated and a shareholder’s interest is limited to the portfolio in which shares are held. Each portfolio pays its own expenses. The Fund offers four classes of shares: Class A Shares, Class C Shares, Institutional Shares and Class R6 Shares. All shares of the Fund have equal rights with respect to voting, except on class-specific matters. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term capital appreciation.
On March 30, 2017, the Fund’s T Share Class became effective with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), but is not yet offered for sale.
Effective August 1, 2018, an automatic conversion feature for Class C Shares was implemented. Pursuant to this automatic conversion feature, after Class C Shares have been held for ten years from the date of purchase, they will automatically convert to Class A Shares on the next monthly conversion processing date.
On November 15, 2019, the Fund acquired all of the net assets of PNC Multi-Factor Small Cap Core Fund, PNC Multi-Factor Small Cap Value Fund, and PNC Small Cap Fund (each an “Acquired Fund” or collectively, the “Acquired Funds”), each an open-end investment company, in a tax-free reorganization in exchange for shares of the Fund, pursuant to a plan of reorganization approved by each Acquired Funds’ shareholders on November 5, 2019. The purpose of the transaction was to combine portfolios with comparable investment objectives and strategies. For financial reporting purposes, assets received and shares issued by the Fund were recorded at fair value; however, the cost basis of the investments received from the Acquired Funds was carried forward to align ongoing reporting of the Fund’s realized gains and losses with amounts distributable to shareholders for tax purposes.
Annual Shareholder Report
29

For every one share of the Acquired Fund Share Class exchanged, a shareholder received the following shares of the Fund:
PNC Fund Share Class
Exchanged
Fund Shares
Received
Multi-Factor Small Cap Core Fund A 1.172 Class A Shares
C 1.333 Class C Shares
I 1.137 Institutional Shares
R6 1.135 Class R6 Shares
Multi-Factor Small Cap Value Fund A 1.042 Class A Shares
C 1.039 Class C Shares
I 1.102 Institutional Shares
Small Cap Fund A 0.494 Class A Shares
C 0.391 Class C Shares
I 0.529 Institutional Shares
The Fund received net assets from the Acquired Funds as the result of the tax-free reorganization as follows:
Shares of the
Fund Issued
Acquired Funds’
Net Assets Received
Unrealized
Appreciation1
Net Assets
of the Fund
Immediately
Prior to
Combination
Net Assets
of the Fund
Immediately
After
Combination
12,798,626 $244,171,911 $71,610,835 $881,235,561 $1,125,407,472
1 Unrealized Appreciation is included in the Net Assets Received amount shown above.
Assuming the acquisition had been completed on August 1, 2019, the beginning of the annual reporting period of the Fund, the Fund’s pro forma results of operations for the year ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Net investment income $4,044,354
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments (123,022,814)
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations $(118,978,460)
Because the combined investment portfolios have been managed as a single integrated portfolio since the acquisition was completed, it is not practicable to separate the amounts of revenue and earnings of the Acquired Funds that have been included in the Fund’s Statement of Operations and Statement of Change in Net Assets, respectively, as of July 31, 2020.
Prior to June 29, 2020, the name of the Trust and Fund was Federated MDT Series and Federated MDT Small Cap Core Fund, respectively.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements. These policies are in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
Annual Shareholder Report
30

Investment Valuation
In calculating its net asset value (NAV), the Fund generally values investments as follows:
■  Equity securities listed on an exchange or traded through a regulated market system are valued at their last reported sale price or official closing price in their principal exchange or market.
■  Shares of other mutual funds or non-exchange-traded investment companies are valued based upon their reported NAVs.
■  Fixed-income securities are fair valued using price evaluations provided by a pricing service approved by the Trustees.
■  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 Trustees.
■  For securities that are fair valued in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Trustees, certain factors may be considered, such as: the last traded or purchase price of the security, information obtained by contacting the issuer or dealers, analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents, fundamental analytical data, the nature and duration of restrictions on disposition, the movement of the market in which the security is normally traded, public trading in similar securities or derivative contracts of the issuer or comparable issuers, movement of a relevant index, or other factors including but not limited to industry changes and relevant government actions.
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 (“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 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, and the actual value obtained could be materially different.
Fair Valuation Procedures
The Trustees have ultimate responsibility for determining the fair value of investments for which market quotations are not readily available. The Trustees have appointed a Valuation Committee comprised of officers of the Fund, Federated MDTA LLC (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 Trustees have 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. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for reviewing third-party pricing-service evaluations including periodic reviews of third-party pricing services’ policies, procedures and valuation methods (including key inputs, methods, models and assumptions), transactional back-testing, comparisons of evaluations of different pricing services, and review of price challenges by the Adviser based on recent market activity. In the event that market quotations and price evaluations are not available for an
Annual Shareholder Report
31

investment, the Valuation Committee determines the fair value of the investment in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trustees. The Trustees periodically review and approve the fair valuations made by the Valuation Committee and any changes made to the procedures.
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. 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. In the event that market quotations and price evaluations are not available for an investment, the fair value of the investment is determined in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trustees.
Repurchase Agreements
The Fund may invest in repurchase agreements for short-term liquidity purposes. It is the policy of the Fund to require the other party to a repurchase agreement to transfer to the Fund’s custodian or sub-custodian eligible securities or cash with a market value (after transaction costs) at least equal to the repurchase price to be paid under the repurchase agreement. The eligible securities are transferred to accounts with the custodian or sub-custodian in which the Fund holds a “securities entitlement” and exercises “control” as those terms are defined in the Uniform Commercial Code. The Fund has established procedures for monitoring the market value of the transferred securities and requiring the transfer of additional eligible securities if necessary to equal at least the repurchase price. These procedures also allow the other party to require securities to be transferred from the account to the extent that their market value exceeds the repurchase price or in exchange for other eligible securities of equivalent market value.
The insolvency of the other party or other failure to repurchase the securities may delay the disposition of the underlying securities or cause the Fund to receive less than the full repurchase price. Under the terms of the repurchase agreement, any amounts received by the Fund in excess of the repurchase price and related transaction costs must be remitted to the other party.
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements in which eligible securities are transferred into joint trading accounts maintained by the custodian or sub-custodian for investment companies and other clients advised by the Fund’s Adviser and its affiliates. The Fund will participate on a pro rata basis with the other investment companies and clients in its share of the securities transferred under such repurchase agreements and in its share of proceeds from any repurchase or other disposition of such securities.
Investment Income, Gains and Losses, Expenses and Distributions
Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade-date basis. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are recorded on an identified-cost basis. Interest income and expenses are accrued daily. Dividend income and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Foreign dividends are recorded on
Annual Shareholder Report
32

the ex-dividend date or when the Fund is informed of the ex-dividend date. Distributions of net investment income, if any, are declared and paid annually. Non-cash dividends included in dividend income, if any, are recorded at fair value. Amortization/accretion of premium and discount is included in investment income. Investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses, and certain fund-level expenses are allocated to each class based on relative average daily net assets, except that select classes will bear certain expenses unique to those classes. The detail of the total fund expense waiver and reimbursements of $1,584,801 is disclosed in Note 2 and Note 5. For the year ended July 31, 2020, transfer agent fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Transfer Agent
Fees Incurred
Transfer Agent
Fees Reimbursed
Class A Shares $207,072 $(185,559)
Class C Shares 47,763 (40,016)
Institutional Shares 861,494 (695,787)
Class R6 Shares 7,143
TOTAL $1,123,472 $(921,362)
Dividends are declared separately for each class. No class has preferential dividend rights; differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses.
Other Service Fees
The Fund may pay other service fees up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A Shares and Class C Shares to unaffiliated financial intermediaries or to Federated Shareholder Services Company (FSSC) for providing services to shareholders and maintaining shareholder accounts. Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FSSC may voluntarily reimburse the Fund for other service fees. For the year ended July 31, 2020, other service fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Other Service
Fees Incurred
Class A Shares $198,954
Class C Shares 63,617
TOTAL $262,571
Federal Taxes
It is the Fund’s policy to comply with the Subchapter M provision of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) and to distribute to shareholders each year substantially all of its income. Accordingly, no provision for federal income tax is necessary. As of and during the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund did not have a liability for any uncertain tax positions. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to tax liabilities as income tax expense in the Statement of Operations. As of July 31, 2020, tax years 2017 through 2020 remain subject to examination by the Fund’s major tax jurisdictions, which include the United States of America and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
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33

The Fund may be subject to taxes imposed by governments of countries in which it invests. Such taxes are generally based on either income or gains earned or repatriated. The Fund accrues and applies such taxes to net investment income, net realized gains and net unrealized gains as income and/or gains are earned.
When-Issued and Delayed-Delivery Transactions
The Fund may engage in when-issued or delayed-delivery transactions. The Fund records when-issued securities on the trade date and maintains security positions such that sufficient liquid assets will be available to make payment for the securities purchased. Securities purchased on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis are marked to market daily and begin earning interest on the settlement date. Losses may occur on these transactions due to changes in market conditions or the failure of counterparties to perform under the contract.
Securities Lending
The Fund participates in a securities lending program providing for the lending of equity securities to qualified brokers. The term of the loans within the program is one year or less. The Fund normally receives cash collateral for securities loaned that may be invested in affiliated money market funds, other money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements. Investments in money market funds may include funds with a “floating” NAV that can impose redemption fees and liquidity gates, impose certain operational impediments to investing cash collateral, and, if the investee fund’s NAV decreases, result in the Fund recognizing losses and being required to cover the decrease in the value of the cash collateral. Collateral is maintained at a minimum level of 100% of the market value of investments loaned, plus interest, if applicable. In accordance with the Fund’s securities lending agreement, the market value of securities on loan is determined each day at the close of business and any additional collateral required to cover the value of securities on loan is delivered to the Fund on the next business day. Earnings on collateral are allocated between the borrower of the security, the securities lending agent, as a fee for its services under the program and the Fund, according to agreed-upon rates. The Fund will not have the right to vote on securities while they are on loan. However, the Fund will attempt to terminate a loan in an effort to reacquire the securities in time to vote on matters that are deemed to be material by the Adviser. There can be no assurance that the Fund will have sufficient notice of such matters to be able to terminate the loan in time to vote thereon.
Securities lending transactions are subject to Master Netting Agreements which are agreements between the Fund and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Fund, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented on the Portfolio of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities are not net settlement amount but gross. As indicated below, the cash collateral received by the Fund exceeds the market value of the securities loaned reducing the net settlement amount to zero. The chart below identifies the amount of collateral received as well as the market value of securities on loan. Additionally, the securities lending agreement executed by the Fund includes an indemnification clause. This clause stipulates that the borrower will reimburse the Fund for any losses as a result of any failure of the borrower to return equivalent securities to the Fund.
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As of July 31, 2020, securities subject to this type of arrangement and related collateral were as follows:
Market Value of
Securities Loaned
Collateral
Received
$63,130,775 $65,944,077
Other
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets, liabilities, expenses and revenues reported in the financial statements. Actual results could differ materially from those estimated. The Fund applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance.
3. SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
The following tables summarize share activity:
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class A Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 1,048,052 $17,685,551 1,917,717 $36,807,080
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Funds 3,213,962 59,940,394
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 11,235 216,722 130,070 2,238,511
Shares redeemed (3,349,156) (57,418,270) (1,926,776) (36,450,543)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM CLASS A SHARE TRANSACTIONS 924,093 $20,424,397 121,011 $2,595,048
    
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class C Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 212,811 $3,235,458 816,518 $14,448,516
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Funds 474,115 7,751,772
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 69,154 1,050,441
Shares redeemed (888,543) (13,324,178) (768,042) (12,785,661)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM CLASS C SHARE TRANSACTIONS (201,617) $(2,336,948) 117,630 $2,713,296
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Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Institutional Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 16,340,991 $281,920,986 29,605,182 $578,572,031
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Funds 8,269,174 160,173,907
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 140,423 2,809,864 1,278,403 22,792,305
Shares redeemed (35,614,006) (613,866,572) (20,198,281) (386,462,699)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM INSTITUTIONAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS (10,863,418) $(168,961,815) 10,685,304 $214,901,637
    
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class R6 Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 1,624,311 $29,377,369 1,525,579 $32,209,970
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Funds 841,375 16,305,838
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 7,469 149,519 51,362 916,235
Shares redeemed (1,530,700) (26,930,651) (463,823) (8,985,248)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM CLASS R6 SHARES TRANSACTIONS 942,455 $18,902,075 1,113,118 $24,140,957
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM TOTAL FUND SHARE TRANSACTIONS (9,198,487) $(131,972,291) 12,037,063 $244,350,938
4. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
The accounting treatment of certain items in accordance with tax regulations may differ from the accounting treatment in accordance with GAAP which may result in permanent differences. In the case of the Fund, such differences primarily result from capital loss carryforwards and open wash sales deferrals on Acquired Funds.
For the year ended July 31, 2020, permanent differences identified and reclassified among the components of net assets were as follows:
Increase (Decrease)
Paid-In Capital Total Distributable
Earnings (Loss)
$2,226,630 $(2,226,630)
Net assets were not affected by this reclassification.
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The tax character of distributions as reported on the Statement of Changes in Net Assets for the years ended July 31, 2020 and 2019, was as follows:
  2020 2019
Ordinary income1 $3,599,027 $21,486,437
Long-term capital gains $$7,223,765
1 For tax purposes, short-term capital gain distributions are considered ordinary income distributions.
As of July 31, 2020, the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Undistributed ordinary income $1,497,602
Unrealized appreciation $22,792,199
Capital loss carryforwards $(87,130,477)
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis net unrealized appreciation is attributable to differing treatments for the deferral of losses on wash sales.
At July 31, 2020, the cost of investments for federal tax purposes was $770,602,726. The net unrealized appreciation of investments for federal tax purposes was $22,792,199. This consists of net unrealized appreciation from investments for those securities having an excess of value over cost of $79,295,493 and net unrealized depreciation from investments for those securities having an excess of cost over value of $56,503,294.
As of July 31, 2020, the Fund had a capital loss carryforward of $87,130,477 which will reduce the Fund’s taxable income arising from future net realized gains on investments, if any, to the extent permitted by the Code, thereby reducing the amount of distributions to shareholders which would otherwise be necessary to relieve the Fund of any liability for federal income tax. Pursuant to the Code, these net capital losses retain their character as either short-term or long-term and do not expire.
The following schedule summarizes the Fund’s capital loss carryforwards:
Short-Term Long-Term Total
$71,706,011 $15,424,466 $87,130,477
5. INVESTMENT ADVISER FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Investment Adviser Fee
The advisory agreement between the Fund and the Adviser provides for an annual fee equal to 0.80% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Prior to July 1, 2019, the annual advisory fee was 0.85% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, the Adviser may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee and/or reimburse certain operating expenses of the Fund. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Adviser voluntarily waived $605,006 of its fee and
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voluntarily reimbursed $921,362 of transfer agent fees. The Adviser has agreed to reimburse the Fund for certain investment adviser fees as a result of transactions in other affiliated investment companies. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Adviser reimbursed $58,433.
Administrative Fee
Federated Administrative Services (FAS), under the Administrative Services Agreement, provides the Fund with administrative personnel and services. 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. The fee paid to FAS is based on the average daily net assets of the Investment Complex as specified below:
Administrative Fee Average Daily Net Assets
of the Investment Complex
0.100% on assets up to $50 billion
0.075% on assets over $50 billion
Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FAS may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the annualized fee paid to FAS was 0.079% of average daily net assets of the Fund.
In addition, FAS may charge certain out-of-pocket expenses to the Fund.
Distribution Services Fee
The Fund has adopted a Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. Under the terms of the Plan, the Fund will compensate Federated Securities Corp. (FSC), the principal distributor, from the daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A Shares and Class C Shares to finance activities intended to result in the sale of these shares. The Plan provides that the Fund may incur distribution expenses at the following percentages of average daily net assets annually, to compensate FSC:
  Percentage of Average Daily
Net Assets of Class
Class A Shares 0.05%
Class C Shares 0.75%
Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FSC may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, distribution services fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Distribution Services
Fees Incurred
Class C Shares $194,337
When FSC receives fees, it may pay some or all of them to financial intermediaries whose customers purchase shares.
For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSC retained $46,219 of fees paid by the Fund. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund’s Class A Shares did not incur a distribution services fee; however, it may begin to incur this fee upon approval of the Trustees.
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Other Service Fees
For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSSC received $2,024 of the other service fees disclosed in Note 2.
Sales Charges
Front-end sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSC) do not represent expenses of the Fund. They are deducted from the proceeds of sales of Fund shares prior to investment or from redemption proceeds prior to remittance, as applicable. For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSC retained $3,266 in sales charges from the sale of Class A Shares. FSC also retained $7,638 and $2,877 of CDSC relating to redemptions of Class A Shares and Class C Shares, respectively.
Expense Limitation
The Adviser and certain of its affiliates (which may include FSC, FAS and FSSC) on their own initiative have agreed to waive certain amounts of their respective fees and/or reimburse expenses. Total annual fund operating expenses (as shown in the financial highlights, excluding interest expense, extraordinary expenses and proxy-related expenses paid by the Fund, if any) paid by the Fund’s Class A Shares, Class C Shares, Institutional Shares and Class R6 Shares (after the voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements) will not exceed 1.13%, 1.88%, 0.88% and 0.87% (the “Fee Limit”), respectively, up to but not including the later of (the “Termination Date”): (a) October 1, 2021; or (b) the date of the Fund’s next effective Prospectus. While the Adviser and its applicable 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.
Directors’/Trustees’ and Miscellaneous Fees
Certain Officers and Trustees of the Fund are Officers and Directors or Trustees of certain of the above companies. To efficiently facilitate payment, Independent Directors’/Trustees’ fees and certain expenses related to conducting meetings of the Directors/Trustees and other miscellaneous expenses are paid by an affiliate of the Adviser which in due course are reimbursed by the Fund. These expenses related to conducting meetings of the Directors/Trustees and other miscellaneous expenses may be included in Accrued and Miscellaneous Expenses on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and Statement of Operations, respectively.
6. INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
Purchases and sales of investments, excluding long-term U.S. government securities and short-term obligations, for the year ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Purchases $1,873,885,080
Sales $2,065,946,544
7. 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
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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 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 July 31, 2020, the Fund had no outstanding loans. During the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund did not utilize the LOC.
8. INTERFUND LENDING
Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the SEC, the Fund, along with other funds advised by subsidiaries of Federated Hermes, Inc., may participate in an interfund lending program. This program provides an alternative credit facility allowing the Fund to borrow from other participating affiliated funds. As of July 31, 2020, there were no outstanding loans. During the year ended July 31, 2020, the program was not utilized.
9. OTHER MATTERS
An outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus was first detected in China in December 2019 and subsequently spread globally. As of the date of the issuance of these financial statements, this coronavirus has resulted in closing borders, enhanced health screenings, 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.
10. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)
For the fiscal year ended July 31, 2020, 100.00% of total ordinary income distributions made by the Fund are qualifying dividends which may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 15%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Act of 2003. Complete information is reported in conjunction with the reporting of your distributions on Form 1099-DIV.
Of the ordinary income distributions made by the Fund during the year ended July 31, 2020, 100.00% qualify for the dividend received deduction available to corporate shareholders.
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
TO THE board of trustees OF federated Hermes MDT Series and shareholders of Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund:
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund (formerly, Federated MDT Small Cap Core Fund) (the “Fund”) (one of the portfolios constituting Federated Hermes MDT Series (formerly, Federated MDT Series) (the “Trust”)), including the portfolio of investments, as of July 31, 2020, and the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund (one of the funds constituting Federated Hermes MDT Series) at July 31, 2020, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Trust’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Trust in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial highlights are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
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Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of July 31, 2020, by correspondence with the custodian and others or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from others were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
We have served as the auditor of one or more Federated Hermes investment companies since 1979.
Boston, Massachusetts
September 22, 2020
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Shareholder Expense Example (unaudited)
As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase or redemption payments; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and to the extent applicable, distribution (12b-1) fees and/or other service fees and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you to understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. It is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from February 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020.
ACTUAL EXPENSES
The first section of the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this section, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you incurred over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first section under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses attributable to your investment during this period.
HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES
The second section of the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. Thus, you should not use the hypothetical account values and expenses to estimate the actual ending account balance or your expenses for the period. Rather, these figures are required to be provided to enable you to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
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Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transaction costs, such as sales charges (loads) on purchase or redemption payments. Therefore, the second section of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transaction costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
  Beginning
Account Value
2/1/2020
Ending
Account Value
7/31/2020
Expenses Paid
During Period1
Actual:      
Class A Shares $1,000 $920.20 $5.39
Class C Shares $1,000 $917.60 $8.96
Institutional Shares $1,000 $922.10 $4.21
Class R6 Shares $1,000 $925.20 $4.16
Hypothetical (assuming a 5% return
before expenses):
     
Class A Shares $1,000 $1,019.20 $5.67
Class C Shares $1,000 $1,015.50 $9.42
Institutional Shares $1,000 $1,020.50 $4.42
Class R6 Shares $1,000 $1,020.50 $4.37
1 Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratios, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 (to reflect the one-half-year period). The annualized net expense ratios are as follows:
   
Class A Shares 1.13%
Class C Shares 1.88%
Institutional Shares 0.88%
Class R6 Shares 0.87%
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Board of Trustees and Trust Officers
The Board of Trustees is responsible for managing the Trust’s business affairs and for exercising all the Trust’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. The address of all Independent Trustees listed is 4000 Ericsson Drive, Warrendale, PA 15086-7561; Attention: Mutual Fund Board. As of December 31, 2019, the Trust comprised five portfolio(s), and the Federated Hermes Fund Family consisted of 41 investment companies (comprising 135 portfolios). Unless otherwise noted, each Officer is elected annually. Unless otherwise noted, each Trustee oversees all portfolios in the Federated Hermes Fund Family and serves for an indefinite term. The Fund’s Statement of Additional Information includes additional information about Trust Trustees and is available, without charge and upon request, by calling 1-800-341-7400.
Interested TRUSTEES Background
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
J. Christopher Donahue*
Birth Date: April 11, 1949
President and Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: May 2006
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Director or Trustee of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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.
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
John B. Fisher*
Birth Date: May 16, 1956
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: May 2016
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Director or Trustee of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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 of some of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family 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; President and CEO of Passport Research, Ltd.; 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.
* Reasons for “interested” status: J. Christopher Donahue and John B. Fisher are interested due to their beneficial ownership of shares of Federated Hermes, Inc. and due to positions they hold with Federated Hermes, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES Background
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
John T. Collins
Birth Date: January 24, 1947
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving:
October 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; formerly, Chairman and CEO, The Collins Group, Inc. (a private equity firm) (Retired).
Other Directorships Held: Chairman of the Board of Directors, Director, and Chairman of the Compensation Committee, 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).
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
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 Fund Family; 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.
Maureen Lally-Green
Birth Date: July 5, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: August 2009
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Adjunct Professor 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; Director and Vice Chair, Our Campaign for the Church Alive!, Inc.; 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, St. Vincent College; and Director and Chair, North Catholic High School, Inc.
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.
Birth Date: April 10, 1945
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Management Consultant and Author.
Other Directorships Held: None.
Qualifications: Mr. Mansfield has served as a Marine Corps officer and in several banking, business management, educational roles and directorship positions throughout his long career. He remains active as a Management Consultant and Author.
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 Fund Family; 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).
P. Jerome Richey
Birth Date: February 23, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving:
October 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Management Consultant; Retired; formerly, Senior Vice Chancellor and Chief Legal Officer, University of Pittsburgh and Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly known as CONSOL Energy Inc.).
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, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly known as CONSOL Energy Inc.); and Board Member, Ethics Counsel and Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC (a law firm).
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
John S. Walsh
Birth Date:
November 28, 1957
Trustee

Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee, and Chair of the Board of Directors or Trustees, of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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).
OFFICERS
Name
Birth Date
Address
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years
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 Fund Family; Senior Vice President, Federated Administrative Services; Financial and Operations Principal for Federated Securities Corp. and Edgewood Services, Inc.; 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.
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Name
Birth Date
Address
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years
and Previous Position(s)
Peter J. Germain
Birth Date:
September 3, 1959
CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER, SECRETARY and EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Officer since: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Mr. Germain is Chief Legal Officer, Secretary and Executive Vice President of the Federated Hermes Fund Family. 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 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 Fund Family; 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.
Stephen F. Auth
Birth Date: September 13, 1956
101 Park Avenue
41st Floor
New York, NY 10178
CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER
Officer since: June 2012
Principal Occupations: Stephen F. Auth is Chief Investment Officer of various Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Executive Vice President, Federated Investment Counseling, Federated Global Investment Management Corp. and Federated Equity Management Company of Pennsylvania.
Previous Positions: Executive Vice President, Federated Investment Management Company and Passport Research, Ltd. (investment advisory subsidiary of Federated); Senior Vice President, Global Portfolio Management Services Division; Senior Vice President, Federated Investment Management Company and Passport Research, Ltd.; Senior Managing Director and Portfolio Manager, Prudential Investments.
    
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Evaluation and Approval of Advisory ContractMay 2020
Federated MDT Small Cap Core Fund (the “Fund”)
(EFFECTIVE CLOSE OF BUSINESS ON JUNE 26, 2020, THE FUND’S NAME CHANGED TO FEDERATED HERMES MDT SMALL CAP CORE FUND)
At its meetings in May 2020 (the “May Meetings”), the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of those Trustees who are not “interested persons” of the Fund, as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “Independent Trustees”), reviewed and unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory contract between the Fund and Federated MDTA LLC (the “Adviser”) with respect to the Fund (the “Contract”) for an additional one-year term. The Board’s determination to approve the continuation of the Contract reflects the exercise of its business judgment after considering all of the information and factors believed to be relevant and appropriate on whether to continue the existing arrangements. The information, factors and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board’s approval are summarized below.
Information Received and Review Process
At the request of the Independent Trustees, the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer (the “CCO”) furnished to the Board in advance of its May Meetings an independent written evaluation presenting on the topics discussed below. The Board considered the CCO’s independent written evaluation (the “CCO Fee Evaluation Report”), along with other information, in evaluating the reasonableness of the Fund’s management fee and in determining to approve the continuation of the Contract. The CCO, in preparing the CCO Fee Evaluation Report, has the authority to retain consultants, experts or staff as reasonably necessary to assist in the performance of his duties, reports directly to the Board, and can be terminated only with the approval of a majority of the Independent Trustees. At the request of the Independent Trustees, the CCO Fee Evaluation Report followed the same general approach and covered the same topics as that of the report that had previously been delivered by the CCO in his capacity as “Senior Officer,” prior to the elimination of the Senior Officer position in December 2017.
In addition to the extensive materials that comprise and accompany the CCO Fee Evaluation Report, in the months preceding the May Meetings, the Board requested and reviewed written responses and supporting materials prepared by the Adviser and its affiliates (collectively, “Federated Hermes”) in response to requests posed to Federated Hermes on behalf of the Independent Trustees encompassing a wide variety of topics. The Board also considered such additional matters as the Independent Trustees deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Contract, which included detailed information about the Fund and Federated Hermes furnished to the Board at its meetings throughout the year
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and in between regularly scheduled meetings on particular matters as the need arose, as well as information specifically prepared in connection with the approval of the continuation of the Contract that was presented at the May Meetings.
The Board’s consideration of the Contract included review of materials and information covering the following matters, among others: the Adviser’s investment philosophy, revenue, profitability, personnel and processes; investment and operating strategies; the Fund’s short-term and long-term performance (in absolute terms, both on a gross basis and net of expenses, and relative to the Fund’s particular investment program and a group of its peer funds and/or its benchmark, as appropriate) and comments on the reasons for the Fund’s performance; the Fund’s investment objectives; the Fund’s expenses, including the advisory fee and the overall expense structure of the Fund (both in absolute terms and relative to a group of its peer funds), with due regard for contractual or voluntary expense limitations (if any); the use and allocation of brokerage commissions derived from trading the Fund’s portfolio securities (if any); and the nature, quality and extent of the advisory and other services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates. The Board also considered the preferences and expectations of Fund shareholders; the entrepreneurial and other risks assumed by the Adviser in sponsoring and managing the Fund; the continuing state of competition in the mutual fund industry and market practices; the range of comparable fees for similar funds in the mutual fund industry; the Fund’s relationship to the other funds advised by Federated Hermes (each, a “Federated Hermes Fund”), which include a comprehensive array of funds with different investment objectives, policies and strategies which are generally available for exchange without the incurrence of additional sales charges; compliance and audit reports concerning the Federated Hermes Funds and the Federated Hermes’ affiliates that service them (including communications from regulatory agencies), as well as Federated Hermes’ responses to any issues raised therein; and relevant developments in the mutual fund industry and how the Federated Hermes Funds and/or Federated Hermes may be responding to them. In addition, the Board received and considered information furnished by Federated Hermes on the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak on Federated Hermes generally and the Fund in particular, including, among other information, the current and anticipated impacts on the management, operations and performance of the Fund. The Board noted that its evaluation process is evolutionary and that the criteria considered and the emphasis placed on relevant criteria may change in recognition of changing circumstances in the mutual fund marketplace.
The Board also considered judicial decisions concerning allegedly excessive investment advisory fees in determining to approve the Contract. Using these judicial decisions as a guide, the Board observed that the following factors may be relevant to an adviser’s fiduciary duty with respect to its receipt of
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compensation from a fund: (1) the nature and quality of the services provided by an adviser to a fund and its shareholders (including the performance of the fund, its benchmark, and comparable funds); (2) an adviser’s cost of providing the services (including the profitability to an adviser of providing advisory services to a fund); (3) the extent to which an adviser may realize “economies of scale” as a fund grows larger and, if such economies of scale exist, whether they have been shared with a fund and its shareholders or the family of funds; (4) any “fall-out” financial benefits that accrue to an adviser because of its relationship with a fund (including research services received from brokers that execute fund trades and any fees paid to affiliates of an adviser for services rendered to a fund); (5) comparative fee and expense structures (including a comparison of fees paid to an adviser with those paid by similar funds both internally and externally as well as management fees charged to institutional and other advisory clients of the adviser for what might be viewed as like services); and (6) the extent of care, conscientiousness and independence with which the fund’s board members perform their duties and their expertise (including whether they are fully informed about all facts the board deems relevant to its consideration of an adviser’s services and fees). The Board noted that the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) disclosure requirements regarding the basis for a fund board’s approval of the fund’s investment advisory contracts generally align with the factors listed above. The Board was aware of these factors and was guided by them in its review of the Contract to the extent it considered them to be appropriate and relevant, as discussed further below.
The Board considered and weighed these factors in light of its substantial accumulated experience in governing the Fund and working with Federated Hermes on matters relating to the Federated Hermes Funds. While individual members of the Board may have weighed certain factors differently, the Board’s determination to continue the Contract was based on a comprehensive consideration of all information provided to the Board throughout the year and specifically with respect to the continuation of the Contract. The Independent Trustees were assisted throughout the evaluation process by independent legal counsel. In connection with their deliberations at the May Meetings, the Independent Trustees met separately in executive session with their independent legal counsel and without management present to review the relevant materials and consider their responsibilities under applicable laws. In addition, senior management representatives of Federated Hermes also met with the Independent Trustees and their independent legal counsel to discuss the materials and presentations furnished to the Board at the May Meetings. The Board considered the approval of the Contract for the Fund as part of its consideration of agreements for funds across the Federated Hermes Funds family, but its approvals were made on a fund-by-fund basis.
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Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and the resources of the Adviser and its affiliates dedicated to the Fund. In this regard, the Board evaluated, among other things, the Adviser’s personnel, experience and track record, as well as the financial resources and overall reputation of Federated Hermes and its willingness to invest in personnel and infrastructure that benefit the Federated Hermes Funds. The Board noted the significant acquisition of Hermes Fund Managers Limited by Federated Hermes in 2018, which has deepened the organization’s investment management expertise and capabilities and expanded the investment process for all of the Federated Hermes Funds to incorporate environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) factors and issuer engagement on ESG matters.
In addition, the Board reviewed the qualifications, backgrounds and responsibilities of the portfolio management team primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund and the Adviser’s ability and experience in attracting and retaining qualified personnel to service the Fund. The Board noted the compliance program of the Adviser and the compliance-related resources devoted by the Adviser and its affiliates in support of the Fund’s obligations pursuant to Rule 38a-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, including the Adviser’s commitment to respond to rulemaking and other regulatory initiatives of the SEC. such as the liquidity risk management program rules. In addition, the Board considered the response by the Adviser to recent market conditions and considered the overall performance of the Adviser in this context. The Fund’s ability to deliver competitive performance when compared to its Performance Peer Group (as defined below) was also deemed to be relevant by the Board as a useful indicator of how the Adviser is executing the Fund’s investment program. The Adviser’s ability to execute this program was one of the Board’s considerations in reaching a conclusion that the nature, extent and quality of the Adviser’s investment management and related services warrant the continuation of the Contract.
Fund Investment Performance
In evaluating the Fund’s investment performance, the Board considered performance results in light of the Fund’s investment objective, strategies and risks, as disclosed in the Fund’s prospectus. The Board also considered the Fund’s performance in light of the overall recent market conditions. The Board considered detailed investment reports on the Fund’s performance over different time periods that were provided to the Board throughout the year and in connection with the May Meetings and evaluated the Adviser’s analysis of the Fund’s performance for these time periods. The Board also reviewed comparative information regarding the performance of other mutual funds in the category of peer funds selected by Morningstar, Inc. (the “Morningstar”), an independent fund ranking organization (the “Performance Peer Group”), noting the CCO’s view that comparisons to fund peer groups may be helpful,
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though not conclusive, in evaluating the performance of the Adviser in managing the Fund. The Board considered, in evaluating such comparisons, that in some cases there may be differences in the funds’ investment objectives or investment management techniques, or the costs to implement funds, even within the same Performance Peer Group. In this connection, the Board considered that the Fund’s quantitative focus makes fee and expense comparisons particularly difficult as the funds in the Performance Peer Group varied widely in their complexity, and the management of the Fund is among the more complex relative to its Performance Peer Group.
For the periods ended December 31, 2019, the Fund’s performance for the five-year period was above the median of the relevant Performance Peer Group, and the Fund’s performance fell below the median of the relevant Performance Peer Group for the one-year and three-year periods. In addition, the Board was informed by the Adviser that, for the same periods, the Fund outperformed its benchmark index for the five-year period and underperformed its benchmark index for the one-year three-year periods. The Board discussed the Fund’s performance with the Adviser and recognized the efforts being taken by the Adviser in the context of other factors considered relevant by the Board.
Following such evaluation, and full deliberations, the Board concluded that the performance of the Fund supported renewal of the Contract.
Fund Expenses
While mindful that courts have cautioned against giving too much weight to comparative information concerning fees charged by other advisers for managing funds with comparable investment programs, the Board has found the use of such comparisons to be relevant to its deliberations. In this regard, the Board was presented with, and considered, information regarding the contractual advisory fee rates, net advisory fee rates, total expense ratios and each element of the Fund’s total expense ratio (i.e., gross and net advisory fees, administrative fees, custody fees, portfolio accounting fees and transfer agency fees) relative to an appropriate group of peer funds compiled by Federated Hermes from the category of peer funds selected by Morningstar (the “Expense Peer Group”). The Board received a description of the methodology used to select the Expense Peer Group from the overall Morningstar category. The Board also reviewed comparative information regarding the fees and expenses of the broader group of funds in the overall Morningstar category. The Board focused on comparisons with other similar mutual funds more heavily than non-mutual fund products or services because such comparisons are believed to be more relevant. The Board considered that other mutual funds are the products most like the Fund, in that they are readily available to Fund shareholders as alternative investment vehicles, and they are the type of
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investment vehicle, in fact, chosen and maintained by the Fund’s investors. The Board noted that the range of their fees and expenses, therefore, appears to be a relevant indicator of what consumers have found to be reasonable in the marketplace in which the Fund competes.
The Board reviewed the contractual advisory fee rate, net advisory fee rate and other expenses of the Fund and noted the position of the Fund’s fee rates relative to its Expense Peer Group. In this regard, the Board noted that the contractual advisory fee rate was below the median of the relevant Expense Peer Group and the Board was satisfied that the overall expense structure of the Fund remained competitive.
For comparison, the Board received and considered information about the fees charged by Federated Hermes for providing advisory services to other types of clients with investment strategies similar to those of the Federated Hermes Funds, including non-mutual fund clients such as institutional separate accounts and third-party unaffiliated mutual funds for which the Adviser or its affiliates serve as sub-adviser. The Board noted the CCO’s conclusion that mon-mutual fund clients are inherently different products due to the following differences, among others: (i) different types of targeted investors; (ii) different applicable laws and regulations; (iii) different legal structures; (iv) different average account sizes and portfolio management techniques made necessary by different cash flows and different associated costs; (v) the time spent by portfolio managers and their teams (among other personnel across various departments, including legal, compliance and risk management) in reviewing securities pricing, addressing different administrative responsibilities, and addressing different degrees of risk associated with management; and (vi) a variety of different costs. The Board also considered information regarding the differences in the nature of the services required for Federated Hermes to manage its proprietary mutual fund business versus managing a discrete pool of assets as a sub-adviser to another institution’s mutual fund, noting that Federated Hermes generally performs significant additional services and assumes substantially greater risks in managing the Fund and other Federated Hermes Funds than in its role as sub-adviser to an unaffiliated third-party mutual fund. The Board noted that the CCO did not consider the fees for providing advisory services to other types of clients to be determinative in judging the appropriateness of the Federated Hermes Funds’ advisory fees.
The Board considered the CCO’s view that the services, administrative responsibilities and risks associated with such relationships are quite different than serving as a primary adviser to a fund.
Following such evaluation, and full deliberations, the Board concluded that the fees and expenses of the Fund are reasonable and supported renewal of the Contract.
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Profitability and Other Benefits
The Board also received financial information about Federated Hermes, including information regarding the compensation and ancillary (or “fall-out”) benefits Federated Hermes derived from its relationships with the Federated Hermes Funds. This information covered not only the fees under the Federated Hermes Funds’ investment advisory contracts, but also fees received by Federated Hermes’ affiliates for providing other services to the Federated Hermes Funds under separate contracts (e.g., for serving as the Federated Hermes Funds’ administrator and distributor). In this regard, the Board considered that certain of Federated Hermes’ affiliates provide distribution and shareholder services to the Federated Hermes Funds, for which they may be compensated through distribution and servicing fees paid pursuant to Rule 12b-1 plans or otherwise. The Board also received and considered information detailing any indirect benefit Federated Hermes may derive from its receipt of research services from brokers who execute portfolio trades for the Federated Hermes Funds. In addition, the Board considered the fact that, in order for the Federated Hermes Fund to be competitive in the marketplace, the Adviser and its affiliates frequently waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses and have disclosed to Federated Hermes Fund shareholders and/or reported to the Board their intention to do so in the future. Moreover, the Board received and considered regular reports from Federated Hermes throughout the year as to the institution, adjustment or elimination of these voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements.
The Board received and considered information furnished by Federated Hermes, as requested by the CCO, that reported revenues on a fund-by-fund basis and made estimates of the allocation of expenses on a fund-by-fund basis, using allocation methodologies specified by the CCO and described to the Board. The Board considered the CCO’s view that, while these cost allocation reports apply consistent allocation processes, the inherent difficulties in allocating costs continues to cause the CCO to question the precision of the process and to conclude that such reports may be unreliable, because a single change in an allocation estimate may dramatically alter the resulting estimate of cost and/or profitability of a Federated Hermes Fund and may produce unintended consequences. The allocation information, including the CCO’s view that fund-by-fund estimations may be unreliable, was considered in the evaluation by the Board. In addition, the Board considered that, during the prior year, an independent consultant conducted a review of the allocation methodologies used by Federated Hermes in estimating profitability for purposes of reporting to the Board in connection with the continuation of the Contract. The Board noted the consultant’s view that, although there is no single best method to allocate expenses, the methodologies used by Federated Hermes are reasonable.
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The Board also reviewed information compiled by Federated Hermes comparing its profitability information to other publicly held fund management companies, including information regarding profitability trends over time. The Board considered the CCO’s conclusion that, based on such profitability information, Federated Hermes’ profit margins did not appear to be excessive. The Board also considered the CCO’s view that Federated Hermes appeared financially sound, with the resources necessary to fulfill its obligations under its contracts with the Federated Hermes Funds.
In 2019, the Board approved a reduction of 5 basis points in the contractual advisory fee.
Economies of Scale
The Board received and considered information about the notion of possible realization of “economies of scale” as a fund grows larger, the difficulties of calculating economies of scale at an individual fund level, and the extent to which potential scale benefits are shared with shareholders. In this regard, the Board considered that Federated Hermes has made significant and long-term investments in areas that support all of the Federated Hermes Funds, such as personnel and processes for the portfolio management, trading operations, issuer engagement (including with respect to ESG matters), shareholder services, compliance, business continuity, internal audit and risk management functions, as well as systems technology (including technology relating to cybersecurity) and use of data. The Board noted that Federated Hermes’ investments in these areas are extensive and are designed to provide enhanced services to the Federated Hermes Funds and their shareholders. The Board considered that the benefits of these investments (as well as the benefits of any economies of scale, should they exist) are likely to be shared with the Federated Hermes Fund family as a whole. In addition, the Board considered that the Adviser and its affiliates have frequently waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses for the Federated Hermes Funds and that such waivers and reimbursements are another means for potential economies of scale to be shared with shareholders and can provide protection from an increase in expenses if a Federated Hermes Fund’s assets decline. Federated Hermes, as it does throughout the year, and specifically in connection with the Board’s review of the Contract, furnished information relative to adviser-paid fees (commonly referred to as revenue sharing). The Board considered the beliefs of Federated Hermes and the CCO that this information should be viewed to determine if there was an incentive to either not apply breakpoints or to apply breakpoints, at higher levels and should not be viewed to determine the appropriateness of advisory fees. The Board also noted the absence of any applicable regulatory or industry guidelines on this subject, which is compounded by the lack of any common industry practice or general pattern with respect to structuring fund advisory fees with “breakpoints” that serve to reduce the fee as a fund attains a certain size.
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Conclusions
The Board considered the CCO’s conclusion that his observations and the information accompanying the CCO Fee Evaluation Report show that the management fee for the Fund was reasonable and the CCO’s recommendation that the Board approve the management fee. The Board noted that, under these circumstances, no changes were recommended to, and no objection was raised to the continuation of, the Contract by the CCO. The CCO also recognized that the Board’s evaluation of the Federated Hermes Funds’ advisory and subadvisory arrangements is a continuing and on-going process that is informed by the information that the Board requests and receives from management throughout the course of the year and, in this regard, the CCO noted certain items for future reporting to the Board or further consideration by management as the Board continues its on-going oversight of the Federated Hermes Funds.
In its determination to continue an existing investment advisory contract, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision to terminate or not renew an investment advisory contract. In particular, the Board recognized that many shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Adviser’s industry standing and reputation and with the expectation that the Adviser will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund. Thus, the Board’s approval of the Contract reflected the fact that it is the shareholders who have effectively selected the Adviser by virtue of having invested in the Fund. The Board concluded that, in light of the factors summarized above, including the nature, quality and scope of the services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates, continuation of the Contract was appropriate.
The Board based its determination to approve the Contract on the totality of the circumstances and relevant factors and with a view to past and future long-term considerations. Not all of the factors and considerations identified above were necessarily deemed to be relevant to the Fund, nor did the Board consider any one of them to be determinative. With respect to the factors that were deemed to be relevant, the Board’s determination to approve the continuation of the Contract reflects its view that Federated Hermes’ performance and actions provided a satisfactory basis to support the determination to continue the existing arrangement.
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Liquidity Risk Management Program Annual Evaluation of Adequacy and Effectiveness
In accordance with Rule 22e-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Liquidity Rule”), Federated Hermes MDT Series (the “Trust”) has adopted and implemented a liquidity risk management program (the “LRMP”) for Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core Fund (the “Fund” and collectively with the Federated Hermes funds, the “Funds”). The LRMP seeks to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk. “Liquidity risk” is defined under the Liquidity Rule as the risk that the Fund is unable to meet redemption requests without significantly diluting remaining investors’ interests in the Fund. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) has approved the designation of the Funds’ investment advisers as the administrators for the LRMP (collectively, the “Administrator”). The Administrator has established a Liquidity Risk Management Committee (the “Committee”) comprised of representatives from various departments across the Administrator to assist it in the implementation and on-going administration of the LRMP. The Committee, in turn, has delegated to the Fixed Income and Equities Liquidity Committees, each a separate committee previously established by the Administrator, the responsibility to review and assess certain information related to the liquidity of the Funds that fall within their respective asset classes.
The Program is comprised of various components designed to support the assessment and/or management of liquidity risk, including: (1) the periodic assessment (no less frequently than annually) of certain factors that influence the Fund’s liquidity risk; (2) the periodic classification (no less frequently than monthly) of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories that reflect an estimate of their liquidity under current market conditions; (3) a 15% limit on the acquisition of “illiquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule); (4) to the extent a Fund does not invest primarily in “highly liquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule), the determination of a minimum percentage of the Fund’s assets that generally will be invested in highly liquid investments (an “HLIM”); (5) if a Fund has established an HLIM, the periodic review (no less frequently than annually) of the HLIM and the adoption of policies and procedures for responding to a shortfall of the Fund’s highly liquid investments below its HLIM; and (6) periodic reporting to the Board.
At its meetings in May 2020, the Board received and reviewed a written report from the Funds’ Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Risk Officer, on behalf of the Administrator, concerning the operation of the LRMP for the period from the LRMP’s inception on December 1, 2018 through March 31, 2020 (the “Period”). The Report addressed the operation of the LRMP and assessed its adequacy and effectiveness, including, where applicable, the operation of any HLIM established for a Fund. There were no
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material changes to the LRMP during the Period. The Report summarized the operation of the Program and the information and factors considered by the Administrator in assessing whether the Program has been adequately and effectively implemented with respect to the Funds. Such information and factors included, among other things:
■  the liquidity risk framework used to assess, manage, and periodically review each Fund’s liquidity risk and the results of this assessment, including a review of the Funds’ access to other available funding sources such as the Funds’ interfund lending facility, redemptions in-kind and committed lines of credit and confirmation that the Fund did not have to access any of these alternative funding sources during the Period;
■  the periodic classifications of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories and the methodologies and inputs used to classify the investments, including the Fund’s reasonably anticipated trade size;
■  the analysis received from a third-party liquidity assessment vendor that is taken into account in the process of determining the liquidity classifications of the Fund’s investments and the results of an evaluation of the services performed by the vendor in support of this process;
■  the fact that the Fund invested primarily in highly liquid investments during the Period and, therefore, was not required to establish, and has not established, an HLIM and the procedures for monitoring the status of the Fund as investing primarily in highly liquid investments;
■  the fact that the Fund invested no more than 15% of its assets in illiquid investments during the Period and the procedures for monitoring this limit; and
■  liquidity events during the Period, including the impact on liquidity caused by extended non-U.S. market closures and the market disruptions resulting from the novel coronavirus outbreak, and the fact that there were no specific liquidity events during the Period that materially affected the Fund’s liquidity risk.
Based on this review, the Administrator concluded that the LRMP is operating effectively to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk, and that the Program has been and continues to be adequately and effectively implemented to monitor and, as applicable, respond to the Fund’s liquidity developments.
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Voting Proxies on Fund Portfolio Securities
A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies, if any, relating to securities held in the Fund’s portfolio is available, without charge and upon request, by calling 1-800-341-7400. A report on “Form N-PX” of how the Fund voted any such 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.
Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
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.
Annual Shareholder Report
62

Mutual funds are not bank deposits or obligations, are not 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. Investment in mutual funds involves investment risk, including the possible loss of principal.
This Report is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by the Fund’s Prospectus, which contains facts concerning its objective and policies, management fees, expenses and other information.
Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Core 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
CUSIP 31421R817
CUSIP 31421R791
CUSIP 31421R783
CUSIP 31421R627
37328 (9/20)
© 2020 Federated Hermes, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Annual Shareholder Report
July 31, 2020
Share Class | Ticker A | QASGX C | QCSGX  
  Institutional | QISGX R6 | QLSGX  

Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund
(formerly, Federated MDT Small Cap Growth Fund)
Fund Established 2005

A Portfolio of Federated Hermes MDT Series
(formerly, Federated MDT Series)
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING REPORT DELIVERY
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the Fund’s shareholder reports like this one will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the Fund or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.
If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Fund or your financial intermediary electronically by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank); other shareholders may call the Fund at 1-800-341-7400, Option 4.
You may elect to receive all future reports in paper free of charge. You can inform the Fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by contacting your financial intermediary (such as a broker-dealer or bank); other shareholders may call the Fund at 1-800-341-7400, Option 4. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with the Fund complex or your financial intermediary.

Not FDIC Insured ■ May Lose Value ■ No Bank Guarantee

J. Christopher
Donahue
President
Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund
Letter from the President
Dear Valued Shareholder,
I am pleased to present the Annual Shareholder Report for your fund covering the period from August 1, 2019 through July 31, 2020.
As we all confront the unprecedented effects of the coronavirus and the challenges it presents to our families, communities, businesses and the financial markets, I want you to know that everyone at Federated Hermes is dedicated to helping you successfully navigate the markets ahead. You can count on us for the insights, investment management knowledge and client service that you have come to expect. Please refer to our website, FederatedInvestors.com, for timely updates on this and other economic and market matters.
Thank you for investing with us. I hope you find this information useful and look forward to keeping you informed.
Sincerely,
J. Christopher Donahue, President
         


Management’s Discussion of Fund Performance (unaudited)
The total return of Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”), based on net asset value for the 12-month reporting period ended July 31, 2020, was 2.53% for Class A Shares, 1.82% for Class C Shares, 2.79% for Institutional Shares and 2.87% for Class R6 Shares. The total return for the Russell 2000® Growth Index (R2000G),1 the Fund’s broad-based securities market index, was 6.00% for the same period. The total return of the Morningstar Small Growth Funds Average (MSGFA),2 a peer group average for the Fund, was 8.82% during the same period. The Fund’s and MSGFA’s total returns for the most recently completed fiscal year reflected actual cash flows, transaction costs and other expenses, which were not reflected in the total return of the R2000G.
During the reporting period, the Fund’s investment strategy focused on stock selection. Stock selection was the most significant factor affecting the Fund’s performance relative to the R2000G during the period.
The following discussion will focus on the performance of the Fund’s Class R6 Shares relative to the R2000G.
MARKET OVERVIEW
The twelve months of this reporting period, culminating with the COVID-19 pandemic, saw huge volatility in the domestic market. Despite the dramatic decline and recovery in the first half of 2020, the whole market Russell 3000® Index3 was up 10.93% for the full period. However, looking more deeply at the subindexes revealed the wildness of the market. Large caps dominated small caps:4 the mega-cap Russell Top 200® Index5 returned 15.84%, while the Russell Midcap® Index6 returned 2.04% and the small-cap Russell 2000® Index7 returned -4.59%. In addition, once again, growth dominated value: the Russell 3000® Growth Index8 returned 28.24% while the Russell 3000® Value Index9 returned -6.67%. The largest spread between growth and value in one capitalization range this year was almost 38 percentage points: the mega-cap Russell Top 200® Growth Index10 returned 33.06% while the Russell Top 200® Value11 Index returned -4.80%.
The best performing sectors in the R2000G during the reporting period were Health Care (17.61%), Information Technology (9.77%), Consumer Staples (3.90%) and Consumer Discretionary (3.81%). Underperforming sectors during the same period included Energy (-50.05%), Materials (-8.81%) and Communication Services (-8.35%).
STOCK SELECTION
The Fund buys stocks with many different combinations of fundamental and technical characteristics that have signaled market outperformance historically. The primary cause of underperformance during the reporting period was the Fund’s underweight of stocks with very low cash flow and negative analyst
Annual Shareholder Report
1

conviction, and weak stock selection among those stocks. For most of the year, the market was bidding up growth stocks with poor cash flow, as it was a growth-leaning market. More recently, the market was investing in biotechnology stocks in hopes of finding one with a COVID-19 cure or vaccine. The Fund tends to avoid stocks with low cash flow and poor analyst conviction, cherry-picking among them for those that look stronger according to our complete set of fundamental and technical factors, so it missed many of the biotechnology stocks or sold out of them too early as they began to be expensive. A partial offset to the underperformance was favorable stock selection among stocks with very low cash flow but more favorable analyst conviction. The Fund’s sector exposures continued to remain close to R2000G weights; there were no significant overweights or underweights at the end of the fiscal year. Weak stock selection in the Health Care sector contributed the most to Fund underperformance. Favorable stock selection in the Consumer Discretionary sector provided a partial offset.
Individual stocks enhancing the Fund’s performance included Aaron’s, Inc., Five9, Inc. and Wingstop, Inc..
Individual stocks detracting from the Fund’s performance included Atkore International Group Inc., Essent Group Ltd. and Quidel Corporation.
1 Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the R2000G.
2 Please see the footnotes to the line graphs below for definitions of, and further information about, the MSGFA.
3 The Russell 3000® Index measures the performance of the largest 3,000 U.S. companies representing approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equity market. The Russell 3000® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad market, and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected.*
4 Small-cap stocks may be less liquid and subject to greater price volatility than large-cap stocks.
5 The Russell Top 200® Index measures the performance of the largest cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell Top 200® Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index. It includes approximately 200 of the largest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership and represents approximately 68% of the U.S. market. The Russell Top 200® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for this very large cap segment and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are reflected.*
6 The Russell Midcap® Index measures the performance of the mid-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell Midcap® Index is a subset of the Russell 1000® Index. It includes approximately 800 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The Russell Midcap® Index represents approximately 31% of the total market capitalization of the Russell 1000® companies. The Russell Midcap® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for the mid-cap segment. The Russell Midcap Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true mid-cap opportunity set.*
7 The Russell 2000® Index measures the performance of the small-cap segment of the U.S. equity universe. The Russell 2000® Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index representing approximately 10% of the total market capitalization of that index. It includes approximately 2000 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index
Annual Shareholder Report
2

  membership. The Russell 2000® Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased small-cap barometer and is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true small-cap opportunity set.*
8 The Russell 3000® Growth Index measures the performance of the broad growth segment of the U.S. equity universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. The Russell 3000® Growth Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad growth market. The Russell 3000® Growth Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect growth characteristics.*
9 The Russell 3000® Value Index measures the performance of the broad value segment of U.S. equity value universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. The Russell 3000® Value Index is constructed to provide a comprehensive, unbiased and stable barometer of the broad value market. The Russell 3000® Value Index is completely reconstituted annually to ensure new and growing equities are included and that the represented companies continue to reflect value characteristics.*
10 The Russell Top 200® Growth Index measures the performance of the especially large cap segment of the U.S. equity universe represented by stocks in the largest 200 by market cap. It includes Russell Top 200® Index companies with higher growth earning potential as defined by Russell’s leading style methodology.*
11 The Russell Top 200® Value Index measures the performance of the especially large cap segment of the U.S. equity universe represented by stocks in the largest 200 by market cap. It includes Russell Top 200® Index companies with value characteristics as defined by Russell’s leading style methodology.*
* The index is unmanaged, and it is not possible to invest directly in an index.
Annual Shareholder Report
3

FUND PERFORMANCE AND GROWTH OF A $10,000 INVESTMENT
The graph below illustrates the hypothetical investment of $10,0001 in the Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund from July 31, 2010 to July 31, 2020, compared to the Russell 2000 Growth® Index (R2000G)2 and the Morningstar Small Growth Funds Average (MSGFA).3 The Average Annual Total Return table below shows returns for each class averaged over the stated periods.
Growth of a $10,000 Investment
Growth of $10,000 as of July 31, 2020
■  Total returns shown for Class C Shares include the maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% as applicable.
    
The Fund offers multiple share classes whose performance may be greater than or less than its other share class(es) due to differences in sales charges and expenses. See the Average Annual Total Return table below for the returns of additional classes not shown in the line graph above.
Average Annual Total Returns for the Period Ended 7/31/2020
(returns reflect all applicable sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges as specified below in footnote #1)
  1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
Class A Shares -3.12% 8.43% 13.39%
Class C Shares 0.82% 8.84% 13.18%
Institutional Shares 2.79% 9.93% 14.32%
Class R6 Shares4 2.87% 9.91% 14.18%
R2000G 6.00% 7.49% 12.58%
MSGFA 8.82% 9.42% 12.92%
Annual Shareholder Report
4

Performance data quoted represents past performance which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Mutual fund performance changes over time and current performance may be lower or higher than what is stated. For current to the most recent month-end performance and after-tax returns, visit FederatedInvestors.com or call 1-800-341-7400. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Mutual funds are not obligations of or guaranteed by any bank and are not federally insured.
1 Represents a hypothetical investment of $10,000 in the Fund after deducting applicable sales charges: for Class A Shares, the maximum sales charge of 5.50% ($10,000 investment minus $550 sales charges = $9,450); for Class C Shares, a 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge would be applied to any redemption less than one year from the purchase date. The Fund’s performance assumes the reinvestment of all dividends and distributions. The R2000G and MSGFA have been adjusted to reflect reinvestment of dividends on securities.
2 The R2000G measures the performance of the small-cap growth segment of the U.S. equity universe. It includes those Russell 2000® Index companies with higher price-to-value ratios and higher forecasted growth values. The R2000G is constructed to provide a comprehensive and unbiased barometer for the small-cap growth segment. The R2000G is completely reconstituted annually to ensure larger stocks do not distort the performance and characteristics of the true small-cap opportunity set and that the represented companies continue to reflect growth characteristics. The R2000G is unmanaged and, unlike the Fund, is not affected by cash flows. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. The R2000G is not adjusted to reflect sales charges, expenses or other fees that the Securities and Exchange Commission requires to be reflected in the Fund’s performance.
3 Morningstar figures represent the average of the total returns reported by all the funds designated by Morningstar as falling into the respective category indicated. They do not reflect sales charges. The Morningstar figures in the Growth of $10,000 line graph are based on historical return information published by Morningstar and reflect the return of the funds comprising the category in the year of publication. Because the funds designated by Morningstar as falling into the category can change over time, the Morningstar figures in the line graph may not match the Morningstar figures in the Average Annual Total Returns table, which reflect the return of the funds that currently comprise the category.
4 The Fund’s Class R6 Shares commenced operations on June 29, 2016. It is anticipated that this class will have the lowest net expenses of all outstanding share classes. For the period prior to the commencement of operations of Class R6 Shares, the performance information shown is for the Fund’s Institutional Shares adjusted to reflect expenses of the Class R6 Shares for each year for which the gross expenses of Class R6 Shares would have exceeded the actual expenses paid by Institutional Shares.
Annual Shareholder Report
5

Portfolio of Investments Summary Table (unaudited)
At July 31, 2020, the Fund’s sector composition1 was as follows:
Sector Composition Percentage of
Total Net Assets
Health Care 31.1%
Information Technology 21.4%
Consumer Discretionary 12.6%
Industrials 12.0%
Financials 5.5%
Consumer Staples 4.3%
Real Estate 4.1%
Communication Services 3.9%
Materials 2.3%
Utilities 0.7%
Energy 0.6%
Securities Lending Collateral2 11.6%
Cash Equivalents3 1.5%
Other Assets and Liabilities—Net4 (11.6)%
TOTAL 100.0%
1 Except for Cash Equivalents and Other Assets and Liabilities, sector classifications are based upon, and individual portfolio securities are assigned to, the classifications of the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) except that the Adviser assigns a classification to securities not classified by the GICS and to securities for which the Adviser does not have access to the classification made by the GICS.
2 Represents cash collateral received for portfolio securities on loan that may be invested in affiliated money market funds, other money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements.
3 Cash Equivalents include any investments in money market mutual funds and/or overnight repurchase agreements other than those representing cash collateral for securities lending.
4 Assets, other than investments in securities, less liabilities. See Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
Annual Shareholder Report
6

Portfolio of Investments
July 31, 2020
Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—98.5%  
    Communication Services—3.9%  
43,585 1,2 Bandwidth, Inc. $6,310,236
21,666 2 CarGurus, Inc. 625,931
721,246 2 Cars.com, Inc. 5,856,518
108,709 1 Cogent Communications Holdings, Inc. 9,795,768
63,316 2 EverQuote, Inc. 3,447,556
114,447 2 Yelp, Inc. 2,858,886
    TOTAL 28,894,895
    Consumer Discretionary—12.6%  
181,949   Aaron’s, Inc. 9,494,099
34,040 2 Asbury Automotive Group, Inc. 3,409,106
26,488   Big Lots, Inc. 1,042,038
145,920 1 Camping World Holdings, Inc. 5,343,590
4,954 2 Cavco Industries, Inc. 992,435
84,788 1,2 Chegg, Inc. 6,865,284
7,362 2 Deckers Outdoor Corp. 1,540,498
107,064 1 Falcon Minerals Corp 268,731
372,934 1,2 Funko, Inc. 2,066,054
66,806 1,2 Groupon, Inc. 1,025,472
2,896 2 Helen of Troy Ltd. 545,172
47,906 2 Installed Building Products, Inc. 3,789,844
12,082   Jack in the Box, Inc. 992,053
27,464 1,2 Lovesac Co./The 872,806
41,624 2 Murphy USA, Inc. 5,511,434
8,103 2 Overstock.com, Inc. 612,506
56,763   Papa Johns International, Inc. 5,373,753
68,030 2 Perdoceo Education Corp. 979,632
323,223 2 PlayAGS, Inc. 1,092,494
114,814   Rent-A-Center, Inc. 3,320,421
81,016 2 Skyline Corp. 2,287,082
67,307 2 Sportsman’s Warehouse Holdings, Inc. 1,082,969
419,554   Steven Madden Ltd. 8,886,154
3,951 2 TopBuild Corp. 521,216
48,897 2 WW International, Inc. 1,260,565
125,478 1 Wingstop, Inc. 19,605,937
Annual Shareholder Report
7

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Consumer Discretionary—continued  
114,919 2 YETI Holdings, Inc. $5,618,390
    TOTAL 94,399,735
    Consumer Staples—4.3%  
138,838 1 B&G Foods, Inc., Class A 4,013,807
275,349 2 BJ’s Wholesale Club Holdings, Inc. 11,027,727
183,344 1,2 Celsius Holdings, Inc. 2,689,656
127,252 2 elf Beauty, Inc. 2,272,721
82,819 2 Freshpet, Inc. 7,954,765
108,586   Inter Parfums, Inc. 4,440,082
    TOTAL 32,398,758
    Energy—0.6%  
183,481 1,2 CONSOL Energy, Inc. 1,078,868
22,459 1 DMC Global, Inc. 659,846
464,014 2 Propetro Holding Corp. 2,491,755
    TOTAL 4,230,469
    Financials—5.5%  
30,404   Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc. 1,101,537
560,096 2 Blucora, Inc. 6,603,532
24,541   CNB Financial Corp. 400,755
46,529   First Cash, Inc. 2,681,932
47,843 2 Goosehead Insurance, Inc. 4,943,617
33,350 1 Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. 903,785
24,939 1 Kinsale Capital Group, Inc. 4,860,611
206,303 2 NMI Holdings, Inc. 3,201,823
41,197 1,2 Palomar Holdings, Inc. 3,762,934
184,957 1 Selective Insurance Group, Inc. 10,050,563
51,679   State Auto Financial Corp. 801,541
22,565 1,2 World Acceptance Corp. 1,676,579
    TOTAL 40,989,209
    Health Care—31.1%  
166,015 1,2 ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 4,915,704
10,906 2 Acceleron Pharma, Inc. 1,081,548
142,399 1,2 Acer Therapeutics, Inc. 531,148
51,904 2,3 Adeptus Health, Inc. 0
63,544 2 Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc. 1,065,633
100,332 2 Akebia Therapeutics, Inc. 1,120,708
26,278 2 Alector, Inc. 411,776
56,070 2 Allogene Therapeutics, Inc. 2,056,087
Annual Shareholder Report
8

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Health Care—continued  
135,728 2 Amicus Therapeutics, Inc. $1,961,270
76,991 2 Amneal Pharmaceuticals, Inc 333,371
324,722 2 AnaptysBio, Inc. 5,832,007
28,179 1,2 Applied Therapeutics, Inc. 727,018
18,621 1,2 Arcturus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 972,575
47,381 2 Arcus Biosciences, Inc. 932,458
149,494 2 AxoGen, Inc. 1,699,747
65,009 1,2 Axonics Modulation Technologies, Inc. 2,753,781
9,973 1,2 Axsome Therapeutics, Inc. 711,374
93,698 2 Biohaven Pharmaceutical Holding Co. Ltd. 6,000,420
36,437 1,2 BioSig Technologies, Inc. 328,662
43,267 2 Bioxcel Therapeutics, Inc. 1,962,591
34,593   CONMED Corp. 2,855,306
373,362 2 Catalyst Pharmaceutical Partners Inc. 1,605,457
46,003 2 ChemoCentryx, Inc. 2,424,818
18,587 1,2 Co-Diagnostics, Inc. 446,088
26,895 1,2 Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc. 424,403
24,101 1,2 Corcept Therapeutics, Inc. 360,310
281,779 2 Cross Country Healthcare, Inc. 1,827,337
147,652 2 Cue Biopharma, Inc. 2,792,099
100,851 2 Cutera, Inc. 1,435,110
160,463 1,2 Denali Therapeutics, Inc. 3,758,044
56,416 2 Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1,212,944
29,629 2 Emergent BioSolutions, Inc. 3,295,930
60,214 1,2 Enanta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 2,760,812
21,723   Ensign Group, Inc. 999,041
98,254 1,2 Fate Therapeutics, Inc. 3,072,403
185,359 2 G1 Therapeutics, Inc. 2,719,217
48,284 2 Globus Medical, Inc. 2,326,323
369,402 2 GlycoMimetics, Inc. 1,455,444
42,660 2 Gossamer Bio, Inc. 508,507
26,605 2 Haemonetics Corp. 2,332,194
210,816 2 Halozyme Therapeutics, Inc. 5,732,087
90,277 2 Immunomedics, Inc. 3,812,398
89,047 1,2 Inogen, Inc. 2,733,743
126,648 1,2 Inovalon Holdings, Inc. 2,980,027
42,565 1,2 Inovio Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 827,464
39,378 2 Inspire Medical Systems, Inc. 3,912,598
Annual Shareholder Report
9

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Health Care—continued  
75,467 1,2 Intellia Therapeutics, Inc. $1,344,067
18,888 2 Intra-Cellular Therapies, Inc. 374,455
18,990 2 Invitae Corp. 554,508
381,414 1,2 Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 3,497,566
194,896 2 Kadmon Holdings, Inc. 713,319
139,761 2 Kala Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1,222,909
238,147 1,2 Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals Ltd. 4,648,629
19,279 2 Kura Oncology, Inc. 316,947
96,760 1 LeMaitre Vascular, Inc. 2,837,971
1,066,432 1,2 Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 2,068,878
29,193 1,2 Livongo Health, Inc. 3,714,809
76,080 1,2 Medpace Holdings, Inc. 9,080,148
145,572 2 Mersana Therapeutics, Inc. 2,893,971
14,804 2 Mirati Therapeutics, Inc. 1,795,873
31,086 2 Molecular Templates, Inc., Class THL 341,013
132,996 1,2 Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 3,922,052
8,402 2 Morphic Holding, Inc. 189,129
17,025 2 Myokardia, Inc. 1,534,463
568,099 2 Myriad Genetics, Inc. 6,856,955
19,463 2 Natera, Inc. 934,613
42,419 2 NextGen Healthcare, Inc. 620,166
25,013 2 Novavax, Inc. 3,579,360
39,223 2 NuVasive, Inc. 2,241,202
23,641 1,2 Odonate Therapeutics, Inc. 859,823
87,031 2 Omnicell, Inc. 6,117,409
34,780 2 Orthofix Medical, Inc. 1,068,094
36,796 1,2 PTC Therapeutics, Inc. 1,704,759
94,290 1,2 Pacira BioSciences, Inc. 4,960,597
85,268 2 Prevail Therapeutics, Inc. 1,276,462
9,254 2 Principia Biopharma, Inc. 773,634
274,222 1,2 Puma Biotechnology, Inc. 2,827,229
61,673 2 R1 RCM, Inc. 843,070
158,800 2 Recro Pharma, Inc. 649,492
6,876 2 Repligen Corp. 1,037,657
31,755 2 Rocket Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 747,195
350,415 2 Savara, Inc. 697,326
69,730 2 Scholar Rock Holding Corp. 787,252
37,487 1,2 Schrodinger, Inc. 2,713,309
Annual Shareholder Report
10

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Health Care—continued  
292,728 2 Select Medical Holdings Corp. $5,573,541
39,763 2 Shockwave Medical, Inc. 1,961,111
24,554 1 Simulations Plus, Inc. 1,728,602
71,471 2 Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 1,591,302
27,831 2 Syneos Health, Inc. 1,736,376
8,999 2 Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc. 940,036
22,648 2 Teladoc, Inc. 5,381,844
178,843 1,2 Tg Therapeutics, Inc. 3,501,746
28,782 2 Turning Point Therapeutics, Inc. 1,704,758
72,069 2 Twist Bioscience Corp. 4,038,747
35,121 1 U.S. Physical Therapy, Inc. 2,917,150
57,381 1,2 Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical, Inc. 4,484,899
259,652 2 VBI Vaccines, Inc. 1,056,784
207,043 2 Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 2,086,993
32,848 2 Vapotherm, Inc. 1,715,980
39,172 1,2 Vaxart, Inc. 367,825
46,860 1,2 Viela Bio, Inc. 1,715,545
314,317 1,2 Viewray, Inc. 870,658
121,528 2 Voyager Therapeutics, Inc. 1,345,315
186,449 2 Xencor, Inc. 5,610,250
59,139 2 Y-mAbs Therapeutics, Inc. 2,077,553
79,097 2 Zogenix, Inc. 1,881,718
78,833 1,2 Zynex, Inc. 1,507,287
    TOTAL 232,150,313
    Industrials—12.0%  
14,765   AZZ, Inc. 466,279
114,844   Advanced Drainage System, Inc. 5,627,356
127,434 1,2 Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc. 5,256,652
20,649 2 Aerovironment, Inc. 1,580,681
51,903   Albany International Corp., Class A 2,495,496
303,385   Apogee Enterprises, Inc. 6,550,082
294,749 2 Astronics Corp. 2,564,316
57,785 1,2 Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. 3,009,443
72,588   Barnes Group, Inc. 2,676,320
155,671 2 Builders Firstsource, Inc. 3,687,846
163,237 2 Echo Global Logistics, Inc. 4,091,535
56,487   Enerpac Tool Group Corp. 1,067,604
71,233 1 Exponent, Inc. 5,987,846
Annual Shareholder Report
11

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Industrials—continued  
23,670   Federal Signal Corp. $731,640
155,615 2 Foundation Building Materials, Inc. 2,136,594
104,346 2 Franklin Covey Co. 1,887,619
162,711 2 GMS, Inc. 3,812,319
371,360 1 Granite Construction, Inc. 6,298,266
132,267   Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc. 2,675,761
79,406   Helios Technologies, Inc. 3,003,929
510,043 2 MRC Global, Inc. 3,034,756
45,143 1,2 Mastec, Inc. 1,795,789
253,186 2 Mistras Group, Inc. 893,747
76,770 2 PGT, Inc. 1,310,464
63,758 1,2 Plug Power, Inc. 491,574
127,691   REV Group, Inc. 829,991
18,846   Rexnord Corp. 545,969
23,830 2 SPX Corp. 1,000,860
54,653 2 Siteone Landscape Supply, Inc. 6,997,224
11,065   Tennant Co. 737,150
197,470 2 Thermon Group Holdings, Inc. 2,675,718
16,461 2 Trex Co., Inc. 2,293,511
125,781   Triumph Group, Inc. 852,795
164,326 2 Welbilt, Inc. 999,102
    TOTAL 90,066,234
    Information Technology—21.4%  
44,606 2 Amkor Technology, Inc. 606,419
19,431   Badger Meter, Inc. 1,216,381
172,141   Blackbaud, Inc. 10,765,698
198,446 2 Box, Inc. 3,562,106
53,548 2 Calix, Inc. 1,098,269
150,254 2 ChannelAdvisor Corp. 3,060,674
166,412 1,2 Coda Octopus Group, Inc. 960,197
122,276 2 Commvault Systems, Inc. 5,389,926
56,680 1,2 Cornerstone OnDemand, Inc. 2,012,707
97,728 1,2 Domo, Inc. 3,144,887
36,747 2 Envestnet, Inc. 2,983,856
209,900   Evertec, Inc. 6,517,395
58,808 1,2 Five9, Inc. 7,105,183
115,414 2 FormFactor, Inc. 3,328,540
112,371 1,2 GTT Communications, Inc. 707,937
Annual Shareholder Report
12

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Information Technology—continued  
129,785 2 Inphi Corp. $16,957,708
86,557 1,2 Intelligent Systems Corp. 2,624,408
59,159 1,2 j2 Global, Inc. 3,355,498
167,791 2 MA-COM Technology Solutions Holdings, Inc. 7,090,848
92,323   MTS Systems Corp. 1,712,592
29,759 1 Maximus, Inc. 2,208,415
57,353 2 MaxLinear, Inc. 1,453,899
211,819 1,2 Model N, Inc. 8,146,559
58,559 1,2 OSI Systems, Inc. 4,155,347
66,487 2 Perficient, Inc. 2,606,955
82,175   Perspecta, Inc. 1,758,545
14,159 2 Ping Identity Holding Corp. 486,503
237,511 1 Plantronics, Inc. 4,747,845
94,830 2 Qualys, Inc. 11,709,608
125,320 2 SPS Commerce, Inc. 9,420,304
169,594 2 SVMK Inc. 4,066,864
178,888 2 SailPoint Technologies Holding 5,634,972
168,906 1,2 Secureworks Corp. 2,020,116
55,393 2 Semtech Corp. 3,087,052
38,866 2 Sitime Corp. 2,065,728
23,531 2 Sprout Social, Inc. 679,811
23,098 2 Synaptics, Inc. 1,848,302
80,276   TTEC Holdings, Inc. 3,809,899
112,057 2 Tenable Holdings, Inc. 3,802,094
17,627 1,2 Varonis Systems, Inc. 1,909,885
    TOTAL 159,819,932
    Materials—2.3%  
110,275   Boise Cascade Co. 5,137,712
19,142   Compass Minerals International, Inc. 975,093
61,372   Fuller (H.B.) Co. 2,782,607
132,089 2 Koppers Holdings, Inc. 3,324,680
241,569   Myers Industries, Inc. 3,638,029
86,100 2,3 Rentech, Inc. 0
103,128 2 Ryerson Holding Corp. 580,611
34,854   Verso Corp. 425,567
    TOTAL 16,864,299
    Real Estate—4.1%  
134,988   Easterly Government Properties, Inc. 3,300,457
Annual Shareholder Report
13

Shares     Value
    COMMON STOCKS—continued  
    Real Estate—continued  
75,276 1 LTC Properties, Inc. $2,796,503
166,306 1 QTS Realty Trust, Inc. 11,965,717
248,369   RMR Group, Inc./The 7,143,092
124,281 1,2 Redfin Corp. 5,167,604
    TOTAL 30,373,373
    Utilities—0.7%  
12,552   American States Water Co. 964,998
38,099 1 California Water Service Group 1,785,700
16,759   Chesapeake Utilities Corp. 1,415,968
5,944   Middlesex Water Co. 380,772
13,540   ONE Gas, Inc. 1,024,978
    TOTAL 5,572,416
    TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(IDENTIFIED COST $626,853,910)
735,759,633
    INVESTMENT COMPANIES—13.1%  
35,185,159   Federated Hermes Government Obligations Fund, Premier Shares, 0.10%4 35,185,159
62,834,182   Federated Hermes Institutional Prime Value Obligations Fund, Institutional Shares, 0.21%4 62,871,883
    TOTAL INVESTMENT COMPANIES
(IDENTIFIED COST $98,057,042)
98,057,042
    TOTAL INVESTMENT IN SECURITIES-111.6%
(IDENTIFIED COST $724,910,952)5
833,816,675
    OTHER ASSETS AND LIABILITIES—NET—(11.6)%6 (86,639,650)
    TOTAL NET ASSETS—100% $747,177,025
Annual Shareholder Report
14

An affiliated company is a company in which the Fund, alone or in combination with other funds, has ownership of at least 5% of the voting shares. Transactions with affiliated companies during the period ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
  Balance of
Shares
Held
7/31/2019
Purchases/
Additions*
Sales/
Reductions*
Consumer Discretionary:      
Wingstop, Inc. 54,313 223,310 (152,145)
Health Care:      
Alector, Inc. 147,830 (121,552)
AnaptysBio, Inc. 342,809 (18,087)
Arcturus Therapeutics Holdings, Inc. 18,621
Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical, Inc. 84,671 (27,290)
Affiliated issuers no longer in the portfolio at period end 101,939 (101,939)
TOTAL OF AFFILIATED TRANSACTIONS 54,313 919,180 (421,013)
Annual Shareholder Report
15

Balance of
Shares
Held
7/31/2020
Value Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation/
Depreciation
Net
Realized
Gain/(Loss)*
Dividend
Income*
         
125,478 $19,605,937 $8,586,180 $646,004 $67,409
         
26,278 $411,776 $(32,945) $(626,622) $
324,722 $5,832,007 $494,533 $18,481 $
18,621 $972,575 $7,392 $$
57,381 $4,484,899 $444,139 $(366,707) $
$$$1,042,769 $
552,480 $31,307,194 $9,499,299 $713,925 $67,409
* A portion of the amount shown was recorded when the Fund did not have ownership of at least 5% of the voting shares.
Affiliated fund holdings are investment companies which are managed by the Adviser or an affiliate of the Adviser. Transactions with affiliated fund holdings during the period ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
  Federated Hermes
Government
Obligations Fund,
Premier Shares*
Federated Hermes
Institutional
Prime Value
Obligations Fund,
Institutional Shares*
Total
Affiliated
Transactions
Balance of Shares Held 7/31/2019 34,589,446 67,411,680 102,001,126
Purchases/Additions 275,581,070 587,766,486 863,347,556
Sales/Reductions (274,985,357) (592,343,984) (867,329,341)
Balance of Shares Held 7/31/2020 35,185,159 62,834,182 98,019,341
Value $35,185,159 $62,871,883 $98,057,042
Change in Unrealized
Appreciation/Depreciation
N/A $(4,832) $(4,832)
Net Realized Gain/(Loss) N/A $ 5,305 $ 5,305
Dividend Income $444,239 $857,097 $1,301,336
* All or a portion of the balance/activity for the fund relates to cash collateral received on securities lending transactions.
1 All or a portion of these securities are temporarily on loan to unaffiliated broker/dealers.
2 Non-income-producing security.
3 Market quotations and price evaluations are not available. Fair value determined using significant unobservable inputs in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the "Trustees").
4 7-day net yield.
5 The cost of investments for federal tax purposes amounts to $739,870,583.
6 Assets, other than investments in securities, less liabilities. See Statement of Assets and Liabilities.
Annual Shareholder Report
16

Note: The categories of investments are shown as a percentage of total net assets at July 31, 2020.
Various inputs are used in determining the value of the Fund’s investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
Level 1 - quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2 - other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.). Also includes securities valued at amortized cost.
Level 3 - significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).
The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.
The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of July 31, 2020, in valuing the Fund’s assets carried at fair value:
Valuation Inputs        
  Level 1—
Quoted
Prices
Level 2—
Other
Significant
Observable
Inputs
Level 3—
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
Total
Equity Securities:        
Common Stocks        
 Domestic $723,508,628 $— $0 $723,508,628
 International 12,251,005 12,251,005
Investment Companies 98,057,042 98,057,042
TOTAL SECURITIES $833,816,675 $— $0 $833,816,675
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
17

Financial HighlightsClass A Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $23.30 $25.67 $21.89 $17.66 $20.49
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)1 (0.07) (0.08) (0.11) (0.08) (0.06)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.66 (0.84) 5.09 4.63 0.32
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 0.59 (0.92) 4.98 4.55 0.26
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net realized gain (1.45) (1.20) (0.32) (3.09)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $23.89 $23.30 $25.67 $21.89 $17.66
Total Return2 2.53% (2.83)% 23.50% 26.00% 2.30%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.13% 1.13% 1.14% 1.15% 1.13%
Net investment income (loss) (0.32)% (0.36)% (0.48)% (0.39)% (0.34)%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.30% 0.29% 0.44% 0.70% 1.00%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $92,389 $82,170 $82,953 $47,681 $29,707
Portfolio turnover 227% 142% 129% 118% 198%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
18

Financial HighlightsClass C Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $20.32 $22.77 $19.69 $16.03 $19.03
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)1 (0.21) (0.23) (0.26) (0.21) (0.17)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.58 (0.77) 4.54 4.19 0.26
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 0.37 (1.00) 4.28 3.98 0.09
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net realized gain (1.45) (1.20) (0.32) (3.09)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $20.69 $20.32 $22.77 $19.69 $16.03
Total Return2 1.82% (3.58)% 22.54% 25.08% 1.51%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 1.88% 1.88% 1.89% 1.90% 1.88%
Net investment income (loss) (1.07)% (1.12)% (1.23)% (1.15)% (1.09)%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.20% 0.29% 0.41% 0.66% 1.00%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $17,481 $22,639 $18,008 $10,007 $3,941
Portfolio turnover 227% 142% 129% 118% 198%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
19

Financial HighlightsInstitutional Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $24.37 $26.71 $22.67 $18.24 $21.01
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)1 (0.02) (0.02) (0.06) (0.03) (0.02)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.70 (0.87) 5.30 4.78 0.34
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 0.68 (0.89) 5.24 4.75 0.32
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net realized gain (1.45) (1.20) (0.32) (3.09)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $25.05 $24.37 $26.71 $22.67 $18.24
Total Return2 2.79% (2.60)% 23.85% 26.27% 2.56%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses3 0.88% 0.88% 0.89% 0.90% 0.88%
Net investment income (loss) (0.07)% (0.10)% (0.25)% (0.15)% (0.09)%
Expense waiver/reimbursement4 0.19% 0.25% 0.41% 0.63% 0.99%
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $354,204 $455,597 $364,248 $112,742 $43,337
Portfolio turnover 227% 142% 129% 118% 198%
1 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
2 Based on net asset value.
3 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
4 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
20

Financial HighlightsClass R6 Shares
(For a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period)
  Year Ended July 31, Period
Ended
7/31/20161
2020 2019 2018 2017
Net Asset Value, Beginning of Period $24.36 $26.70 $22.67 $18.24 $16.25
Income From Investment Operations:          
Net investment income (loss)2 (0.02) (0.02) (0.06) (0.01) (0.07)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.72 (0.87) 5.29 4.76 2.06
TOTAL FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS 0.70 (0.89) 5.23 4.75 1.99
Less Distributions:          
Distributions from net realized gain (1.45) (1.20) (0.32)
Net Asset Value, End of Period $25.06 $24.36 $26.70 $22.67 $18.24
Total Return3 2.87% (2.60)% 23.81% 26.27% 12.25%
Ratios to Average Net Assets:          
Net expenses4 0.87% 0.87% 0.88% 0.88% 0.87%5
Net investment income (loss) (0.07)% (0.07)% (0.24)% (0.04)% (0.41)%5
Expense waiver/reimbursement6 0.09% 0.15% 0.30% 0.42% 0.66%5
Supplemental Data:          
Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) $283,103 $333,059 $89,307 $24,795 $07
Portfolio turnover 227% 142% 129% 118% 198%8
1 Reflects operations for the period from June 29, 2016 (date of initial investment) to July 31, 2016.
2 Per share numbers have been calculated using the average shares method.
3 Based on net asset value. Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized.
4 Amount does not reflect net expenses incurred by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
5 Computed on an annualized basis.
6 This expense decrease is reflected in both the net expense and the net investment income (loss) ratios shown above. Amount does not reflect expense waiver/reimbursement recorded by investment companies in which the Fund may invest.
7 Represents less than $1,000.
8 Portfolio turnover is calculated at the Fund level. Percentage indicated was calculated for the year ended July 31, 2016.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
21

Statement of Assets and Liabilities
July 31, 2020
Assets:    
Investment in securities, at value including $84,180,685 of securities loaned, $98,057,042 of investment in affiliated holdings* and $31,307,194 of investments in affiliated companies* (identified cost $724,910,952)   $833,816,675
Income receivable   126,034
Income receivable from affiliated holdings   1,985
Receivable for investments sold   17,446,462
Receivable for shares sold   585,192
TOTAL ASSETS   851,976,348
Liabilities:    
Payable for investments purchased $15,925,200  
Payable for shares redeemed 1,348,071  
Payable for collateral due to broker for securities lending 87,174,159  
Payable for investment adviser fee (Note 5) 14,431  
Payable for administrative fees (Note 5) 1,600  
Payable for distribution services fee (Note 5) 10,769  
Payable for other service fees (Notes 2 and 5) 46,452  
Accrued expenses (Note 5) 278,641  
TOTAL LIABILITIES   104,799,323
Net assets for 30,147,683 shares outstanding   $747,177,025
Net Assets Consist of:    
Paid-in capital   $678,396,445
Total distributable earnings (loss)   68,780,580
TOTAL NET ASSETS   $747,177,025
Annual Shareholder Report
22

Statement of Assets and Liabilitiescontinued
Net Asset Value, Offering Price and Redemption
Proceeds Per Share
   
Class A Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($92,389,437 ÷ 3,867,231 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $23.89
Offering price per share (100/94.50 of $23.89)   $25.28
Redemption proceeds per share   $23.89
Class C Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($17,481,241 ÷ 844,993 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $20.69
Offering price per share   $20.69
Redemption proceeds per share (99.00/100 of $20.69)   $20.48
Institutional Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($354,203,508 ÷ 14,138,983 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $25.05
Offering price per share   $25.05
Redemption proceeds per share   $25.05
Class R6 Shares:    
Net asset value per share ($283,102,839 ÷ 11,296,476 shares outstanding), no par value, unlimited shares authorized   $25.06
Offering price per share   $25.06
Redemption proceeds per share   $25.06
* See information listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
23

Statement of Operations
Year Ended July 31, 2020
Investment Income:      
Dividends (including $231,268 received from affiliated companies and holdings* and net of foreign taxes withheld of $4,713)     $5,831,010
Net income on securities loaned (includes $1,137,477 earned from affiliated holdings related to cash collateral balances*) (Note 2)     964,374
TOTAL INCOME     6,795,384
Expenses:      
Investment adviser fee (Note 5)   $6,701,584  
Administrative fee (Note 5)   659,912  
Custodian fees   74,310  
Transfer agent fee (Note 2)   906,648  
Directors’/Trustees’ fees (Note 5)   6,142  
Auditing fees   27,700  
Legal fees   7,722  
Portfolio accounting fees   153,269  
Distribution services fee (Note 5)   141,294  
Other service fees (Notes 2 and 5)   265,125  
Share registration costs   95,888  
Printing and postage   77,935  
Miscellaneous (Note 5)   39,870  
TOTAL EXPENSES   9,157,399  
Annual Shareholder Report
24

Statement of Operationscontinued
Waiver and Reimbursements:      
Waiver/reimbursement of investment adviser fee (Note 5) $(732,169)    
Reimbursement of other operating expenses (Notes 2 and 5) (633,622)    
TOTAL WAIVER AND REIMBURSEMENTS   (1,365,791)  
Net expenses     7,791,608
Net investment income (loss)     (996,224)
Realized and Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments:      
Net realized loss on investments (including net realized gain of $719,230 on sales of investments in affiliated companies and holdings*)     (33,014,524)
Net change in unrealized appreciation of investments (including net change in unrealized appreciation of $9,494,467 on investments in affiliated companies and holdings*)     37,205,285
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments     4,190,761
Change in net assets resulting from operations     $3,194,537
* See information listed after the Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
25

Statement of Changes in Net Assets
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets    
Operations:    
Net investment income (loss) $(996,224) $(1,133,718)
Net realized gain (loss) (33,014,524) 2,812,140
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation 37,205,285 (10,118,739)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS 3,194,537 (8,440,317)
Distributions to Shareholders:    
Class A Shares (4,694,682)
Class C Shares (1,802,870)
Institutional Shares (21,193,835)
Class R6 Shares (10,244,004)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS (37,935,391)
Share Transactions:    
Proceeds from sale of shares 260,125,039 662,802,599
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from PNC Multi-Factor Small Cap Growth Fund 102,652,108
Net asset value of shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 32,928,721
Cost of shares redeemed (512,259,924) (310,406,395)
CHANGE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM SHARE TRANSACTIONS (149,482,777) 385,324,925
Change in net assets (146,288,240) 338,949,217
Net Assets:    
Beginning of period 893,465,265 554,516,048
End of period $747,177,025 $893,465,265
See Notes which are an integral part of the Financial Statements
Annual Shareholder Report
26

Notes to Financial Statements
July 31, 2020
1. ORGANIZATION
Federated Hermes MDT Series (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), as an open-end management investment company. The Trust consists of five portfolios. The financial statements included herein are only those of Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”), a diversified portfolio. The financial statements of the other portfolios are presented separately. The assets of each portfolio are segregated and a shareholder’s interest is limited to the portfolio in which shares are held. Each portfolio pays its own expenses. The Fund offers four classes of shares: Class A Shares, Class C Shares, Institutional Shares and Class R6 Shares. All shares of the Fund have equal rights with respect to voting, except on class-specific matters. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term capital appreciation.
On March 30, 2017, the Fund’s T Share Class became effective with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), but is not yet offered for sale.
Effective August 1, 2018, an automatic conversion feature for Class C Shares was implemented. Pursuant to this automatic conversion feature, after Class C Shares have been held for ten years from the date of purchase, they will automatically convert to Class A Shares on the next monthly conversion processing date.
On November 15, 2019, the Fund acquired all of the net assets of PNC Multi-Factor Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Acquired Fund”), an open-end investment company, in a tax-free reorganization in exchange for shares of the Fund, pursuant to a plan of reorganization approved by the Acquired Fund’s shareholders on November 5, 2019. The purpose of the transaction was to combine two portfolios with comparable investment objectives and strategies. For financial reporting purposes, assets received and shares issued by the Fund were recorded at fair value; however, the cost basis of the investments received from the Acquired Fund was carried forward to align ongoing reporting of the Fund’s realized gains and losses with amounts distributable to shareholders for tax purposes.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class A Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 0.896 shares of the Fund’s Class A Shares.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class C Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 0.971 shares of the Fund’s Class C Shares.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class I Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 0.883 shares of the Fund’s Institutional Shares.
For every one share of the Acquired Fund’s Class R6 Shares exchanged, a shareholder received 0.883 shares of the Fund’s R6 Shares.
Annual Shareholder Report
27

The Fund received net assets from the Acquired Fund as the result of the tax-free reorganization as follows:
Shares of the
Fund Issued
Acquired Fund’s
Net Assets Received
Unrealized
Appreciation1
Net Assets
of the Fund
Immediately
Prior to
Combination
Net Assets
of the Fund
Immediately
After
Combination
4,360,352 $102,652,108 $20,727,223 $897,256,665 $999,908,773
1 Unrealized Appreciation is included in the Net Assets Received amount shown above.
Assuming the acquisition had been completed on August 1, 2019, the beginning of the annual reporting period of the Fund, the Fund’s pro forma results of operations for the year ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Net investment loss $(964,618)
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments 3,068,318
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations $2,103,700
    
Because the combined investment portfolios have been managed as a single integrated portfolio since the acquisition was completed, it is not practicable to separate the amounts of revenue and earnings of the Acquired Fund that have been included in the Fund’s Statement of Operations and Statement of Changes in Net Assets as of July 31, 2020.
Prior to June 29, 2020, the name of the Trust and Fund were Federated MDT Series and Federated MDT Small Cap Growth Fund, respectively.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of its financial statements. These policies are in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
Investment Valuation
In calculating its net asset value (NAV), the Fund generally values investments as follows:
■  Equity securities listed on an exchange or traded through a regulated market system are valued at their last reported sale price or official closing price in their principal exchange or market.
■  Shares of other mutual funds or non-exchange-traded investment companies are valued based upon their reported NAVs.
■  Fixed-income securities are fair valued using price evaluations provided by a pricing service approved by the Trustees.
■  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 Trustees.
■  For securities that are fair valued in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Trustees, certain factors may be considered, such as: the last traded or purchase price of the security, information obtained by
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  contacting the issuer or dealers, analysis of the issuer’s financial statements or other available documents, fundamental analytical data, the nature and duration of restrictions on disposition, the movement of the market in which the security is normally traded, public trading in similar securities or derivative contracts of the issuer or comparable issuers, movement of a relevant index, or other factors including but not limited to industry changes and relevant government actions.
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 (“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 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, and the actual value obtained could be materially different.
Fair Valuation Procedures
The Trustees have ultimate responsibility for determining the fair value of investments for which market quotations are not readily available. The Trustees have appointed a Valuation Committee comprised of officers of the Fund, Federated MDTA LLC (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 Trustees have 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. The Valuation Committee employs various methods for reviewing third-party pricing-service evaluations including periodic reviews of third-party pricing services’ policies, procedures and valuation methods (including key inputs, methods, models and assumptions), transactional back-testing, comparisons of evaluations of different pricing services, and review of price challenges by the Adviser based on recent market activity. 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 Trustees. The Trustees periodically review and approve the fair valuations made by the Valuation Committee and any changes made to the procedures.
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. 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. In the event that market quotations and price evaluations are not available for an investment, the fair value of the investment is determined in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trustees.
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Repurchase Agreements
The Fund may invest in repurchase agreements for short-term liquidity purposes. It is the policy of the Fund to require the other party to a repurchase agreement to transfer to the Fund’s custodian or sub-custodian eligible securities or cash with a market value (after transaction costs) at least equal to the repurchase price to be paid under the repurchase agreement. The eligible securities are transferred to accounts with the custodian or sub-custodian in which the Fund holds a “securities entitlement” and exercises “control” as those terms are defined in the Uniform Commercial Code. The Fund has established procedures for monitoring the market value of the transferred securities and requiring the transfer of additional eligible securities if necessary to equal at least the repurchase price. These procedures also allow the other party to require securities to be transferred from the account to the extent that their market value exceeds the repurchase price or in exchange for other eligible securities of equivalent market value.
The insolvency of the other party or other failure to repurchase the securities may delay the disposition of the underlying securities or cause the Fund to receive less than the full repurchase price. Under the terms of the repurchase agreement, any amounts received by the Fund in excess of the repurchase price and related transaction costs must be remitted to the other party.
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements in which eligible securities are transferred into joint trading accounts maintained by the custodian or sub-custodian for investment companies and other clients advised by the Fund’s Adviser and its affiliates. The Fund will participate on a pro rata basis with the other investment companies and clients in its share of the securities transferred under such repurchase agreements and in its share of proceeds from any repurchase or other disposition of such securities.
Investment Income, Gains and Losses, Expenses and Distributions
Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade-date basis. Realized gains and losses from investment transactions are recorded on an identified-cost basis. Interest income and expenses are accrued daily. Dividend income and distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions of net investment income, if any, are declared and paid annually. Non-cash dividends included in dividend income, if any, are recorded at fair value. Amortization/accretion of premium and discount is included in investment income. Investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses, and certain fund-level expenses are allocated to each class based on relative average daily net assets, except that select classes will bear certain expenses unique to those classes. The detail of the total fund expense waiver and reimbursements of $1,365,791 is disclosed in various locations in this Note 2 and Note 5. For the year ended July 31, 2020, transfer agent fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Transfer Agent
Fees Incurred
Transfer Agent
Fees Reimbursed
Class A Shares $216,979 $(183,381)
Class C Shares 29,576 (21,457)
Institutional Shares 581,179 (428,784)
Class R6 Shares 78,914
TOTAL $906,648 $(633,622)
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Dividends are declared separately for each class. No class has preferential dividend rights; differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses.
Other Service Fees
The Fund may pay other service fees up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A Shares and Class C Shares to financial intermediaries or to Federated Shareholder Services Company (FSSC) for providing services to shareholders and maintaining shareholder accounts. Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FSSC may voluntarily reimburse the Fund for other service fees. For the year ended July 31, 2020, other service fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Other Service
Fees Incurred
Class A Shares $219,410
Class C Shares 45,715
TOTAL $265,125
Federal Taxes
It is the Fund’s policy to comply with the Subchapter M provision of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) and to distribute to shareholders each year substantially all of its income. Accordingly, no provision for federal income tax is necessary. As of and during the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund did not have a liability for any uncertain tax positions. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to tax liabilities as income tax expense in the Statement of Operations. As of July 31, 2020, tax years 2017 through 2020 remain subject to examination by the Fund’s major tax jurisdictions, which include the United States of America and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
When-Issued and Delayed-Delivery Transactions
The Fund may engage in when-issued or delayed-delivery transactions. The Fund records when-issued securities on the trade date and maintains security positions such that sufficient liquid assets will be available to make payment for the securities purchased. Securities purchased on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis are marked to market daily and begin earning interest on the settlement date. Losses may occur on these transactions due to changes in market conditions or the failure of counterparties to perform under the contract.
Securities Lending
The Fund participates in a securities lending program providing for the lending of equity securities to qualified brokers. The term of the loans within the program is one year or less. The Fund normally receives cash collateral for securities loaned that may be invested in affiliated money market funds, other money market instruments and/or repurchase agreements. Investments in money market funds may include funds with a “floating” NAV that can impose redemption fees and liquidity gates, impose certain operational impediments to investing cash collateral, and, if the investee fund’s NAV decreases, result in the Fund recognizing losses and being required to cover the decrease in the value of the cash collateral. Collateral is maintained at a minimum level of 100% of the market value of investments loaned, plus interest, if applicable. In accordance with the Fund’s securities lending agreement, the market value of securities
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on loan is determined each day at the close of business and any additional collateral required to cover the value of securities on loan is delivered to the Fund on the next business day. Earnings on collateral are allocated between the borrower of the security, the securities lending agent, as a fee for its services under the program and the Fund, according to agreed-upon rates. The Fund will not have the right to vote on securities while they are on loan. However, the Fund will attempt to terminate a loan in an effort to reacquire the securities in time to vote on matters that are deemed to be material by the Adviser. There can be no assurance that the Fund will have sufficient notice of such matters to be able to terminate the loan in time to vote thereon.
Securities lending transactions are subject to Master Netting Agreements which are agreements between the Fund and its counterparties that provide for the net settlement of all transactions and collateral with the Fund, through a single payment, in the event of default or termination. Amounts presented on the Portfolio of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities are not net settlement amounts but gross. As indicated below, the cash collateral received by the Fund exceeds the market value of the securities loaned reducing the net settlement amount to zero. The chart below identifies the amount of collateral received as well as the market value of securities on loan. Additionally, the securities lending agreement executed by the Fund includes an indemnification clause. This clause stipulates that the borrower will reimburse the Fund for any losses as a result of any failure of the borrower to return equivalent securities to the Fund.
As of July 31, 2020, securities subject to this type of arrangement and related collateral were as follows:
Market Value of
Securities Loaned
Collateral
Received
$84,180,685 $87,174,159
Other
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts of assets, liabilities, expenses and revenues reported in the financial statements. Actual results could differ materially from those estimated. The Fund applies investment company accounting and reporting guidance.
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3. SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
The following tables summarize share activity:
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class A Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 609,482 $13,104,153 1,528,971 $35,808,747
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Fund 1,446,327 33,251,055
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 206,833 4,264,901
Shares redeemed (1,715,867) (36,704,330) (1,439,941) (34,081,411)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM CLASS A SHARE TRANSACTIONS 339,942 $9,650,878 295,863 $5,992,237
    
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class C Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 126,433 $2,399,164 861,349 $19,805,308
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Fund 182,602 3,655,701
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 84,088 1,519,470
Shares redeemed (577,979) (11,036,748) (622,248) (12,775,267)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM CLASS C SHARE TRANSACTIONS (268,944) $(4,981,883) 323,189 $8,549,511
    
Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Institutional Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 7,454,551 $168,193,983 13,009,742 $313,124,900
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Fund 2,548,202 61,335,218
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 906,635 19,519,847
Shares redeemed (14,562,017) (326,516,625) (8,855,829) (217,649,803)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM INSTITUTIONAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS (4,559,264) $(96,987,424) 5,060,548 $114,994,944
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Year Ended July 31 2020 2019
Class R6 Shares: Shares Amount Shares Amount
Shares sold 3,418,303 $76,427,739 11,880,605 $294,063,644
Proceeds from shares issued in connection with the tax-free transfer of assets from the Acquired Fund 183,221 4,410,134
Shares issued to shareholders in payment of distributions declared 354,134 7,624,503
Shares redeemed (5,976,222) (138,002,221) (1,908,361) (45,899,914)
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM CLASS R6 SHARE TRANSACTIONS (2,374,698) $(57,164,348) 10,326,378 $255,788,233
NET CHANGE RESULTING FROM TOTAL FUND SHARE TRANSACTIONS (6,862,964) $(149,482,777) 16,005,978 $385,324,925
4. FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
The accounting treatment of certain items in accordance with income tax regulations may differ from the accounting treatment in accordance with GAAP which may result in permanent differences. In the case of the Fund, such differences primarily result from net operating loss, regulatory settlement proceeds and deferral of losses on wash sales.
For the year ended July 31, 2020, permanent differences identified and reclassified among the components of net assets were as follows:
Increase (Decrease)
Paid-In Capital Total Distributable
Earnings (Loss)
$(634,073) $634,073
Net assets were not affected by this reclassification.
The tax character of distributions as reported on the Statement of Changes in Net Assets for the years ended July 31, 2020 and 2019, was as follows:
  2020 2019
Ordinary income1 $- $19,115,501
Long-term capital gains $- $18,819,890
1 For tax purposes, short-term capital gain distributions are considered ordinary income distributions.
As of July 31, 2020, the components of distributable earnings on a tax-basis were as follows:
Net unrealized appreciation $93,946,092
Capital loss carryforwards and deferrals $(25,165,512)
The difference between book-basis and tax-basis net unrealized appreciation/depreciation is attributable to differing treatments for deferral of losses on wash sales.
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At July 31, 2020, the cost of investments for federal tax purposes was $739,870,583. The net unrealized appreciation of investments for federal tax purposes was $93,946,092. This consists of net unrealized appreciation from investments for those securities having an excess of value over cost of $123,992,623 and net unrealized depreciation from investments for those securities having an excess of cost over value of $30,046,531.
As of July 31, 2020, the Fund had a capital loss carryforward of $24,245,488 which will reduce the Fund’s taxable income arising from future net realized gains on investments, if any, to the extent permitted by the Code, thereby reducing the amount of distributions to shareholders which would otherwise be necessary to relieve the Fund of any liability for federal income tax. Pursuant to the Code, these net capital losses retain their character as either short-term or long-term and do not expire.
The following schedule summarizes the Fund’s capital loss carryforwards:
Short-Term Long-Term Total
$23,207,571 $1,037,917 $24,245,488
Under current tax rules, a late-year ordinary loss may be deferred, in whole or in part, and treated as occurring on the first day of the following fiscal year. As of July 31, 2020, for federal income tax purposes, a late year ordinary loss of $920,024 was deferred to August 1, 2020.
5. INVESTMENT ADVISER FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Investment Adviser Fee
The advisory agreement between the Fund and the Adviser provides for an annual fee equal to 0.80% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Prior to July 1, 2019, the annual advisory fee was 0.85% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, the Adviser may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee and/or reimburse certain operating expenses of the Fund. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Adviser voluntarily waived $676,107 of its fee and voluntarily reimbursed $633,622 of transfer agent fees.
The Adviser has agreed to reimburse the Fund for certain investment adviser fees as a result of transactions in other affiliated investment companies. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Adviser reimbursed $56,062.
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Administrative Fee
Federated Administrative Services (FAS), under the Administrative Services Agreement, provides the Fund with administrative personnel and services. 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. The fee paid to FAS is based on the average daily net assets of the Investment Complex as specified below:
Administrative Fee Average Daily Net Assets
of the Investment Complex
0.100% on assets up to $50 billion
0.075% on assets over $50 billion
Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FAS may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the annualized fee paid to FAS was 0.079% of average daily net assets of the Fund.
In addition, FAS may charge certain out-of-pocket expenses to the Fund.
Distribution Services Fee
The Fund has adopted a Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act. Under the terms of the Plan, the Fund will compensate Federated Securities Corp. (FSC), the principal distributor, from the daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A Shares and Class C Shares to finance activities intended to result in the sale of these shares. The Plan provides that the Fund may incur distribution expenses at the following percentages of average daily net assets annually, to compensate FSC:
  Percentage of Average Daily
Net Assets of Class
Class A Shares 0.05%
Class C Shares 0.75%
Subject to the terms described in the Expense Limitation note, FSC may voluntarily choose to waive any portion of its fee. For the year ended July 31, 2020, distribution services fees for the Fund were as follows:
  Distribution Services
Fees Incurred
Class C Shares $141,294
For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSC retained $20,779 fees paid by the Fund.
When FSC receives fees, it may pay some or all of them to financial intermediaries whose customers purchase shares. For the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund’s Class A Shares did not incur a distribution services fee; however, it may begin to incur this fee upon approval of the Trustees.
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Sales Charges
Front-end sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSC) do not represent expenses of the Fund. They are deducted from the proceeds of sales of Fund shares prior to investment or from redemption proceeds prior to remittance, as applicable. For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSC retained $2,074 in sales charges from the sale of Class A Shares. FSC also retained $230 and $2,017 of CDSC relating to redemptions of Class A Shares and Class C Shares, respectively.
Other Service Fees
For the year ended July 31, 2020, FSSC received $10,601 of the other service fees disclosed in Note 2.
Expense Limitation
The Adviser and certain of its affiliates (which may include FSC, FAS and FSSC) on their own initiative have agreed to waive certain amounts of their respective fees and/or reimburse expenses. Total annual fund operating expenses (as shown in the financial highlights, excluding interest expense, extraordinary expenses and proxy-related expenses paid by the Fund, if any) paid by the Fund’s Class A Shares, Class C Shares, Institutional Shares and Class R6 Shares (after the voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements) will not exceed 1.13%, 1.88%, 0.88% and 0.87% (the “Fee Limit”), respectively, up to but not including the later of (the “Termination Date”): (a) October 1, 2021; or (b) the date of the Fund’s next effective Prospectus. While the Adviser and its applicable 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.
Directors’/Trustees’ and Miscellaneous Fees
Certain Officers and Trustees of the Fund are Officers and Directors or Trustees of certain of the above companies. To efficiently facilitate payment, Independent Directors’/Trustees’ fees and certain expenses related to conducting meetings of the Directors/Trustees and other miscellaneous expenses are paid by an affiliate of the Adviser which in due course are reimbursed by the Fund. These expenses related to conducting meetings of the Directors/Trustees and other miscellaneous expenses may be included in Accrued and Miscellaneous Expenses on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities and Statement of Operations, respectively.
6. INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
Purchases and sales of investments, excluding long-term U.S. government securities and short-term obligations, for the year ended July 31, 2020, were as follows:
Purchases $1,868,750,417
Sales $2,033,306,095
7. CONCENTRATION OF RISK
The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities of companies that are deemed by the Fund’s management to be classified in similar business sectors. Economic developments may have an effect on the liquidity and volatility of the portfolio securities.
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8. 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 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 July 31, 2020, the Fund had no outstanding loans. During the year ended July 31, 2020, the Fund did not utilize the LOC.
9. INTERFUND LENDING
Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the SEC, the Fund, along with other funds advised by subsidiaries of Federated Hermes, Inc., may participate in an interfund lending program. This program provides an alternative credit facility allowing the Fund to borrow from other participating affiliated funds. As of July 31, 2020, there were no outstanding loans. During the year ended July 31, 2020, the program was not utilized.
10. OTHER MATTERS
An outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus was first detected in China in December 2019 and subsequently spread globally. As of the date of the issuance of these financial statements, this coronavirus has resulted in closing borders, enhanced health screenings, 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.
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
TO THE board of trustees OF federated Hermes MDT Series and shareholders of Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund:
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund (formerly, Federated MDT Small Cap Growth Fund) (the “Fund”) (one of the portfolios constituting Federated Hermes MDT Series (formerly, Federated MDT Series) (the “Trust”)), including the portfolio of investments, as of July 31, 2020, and the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund (one of the funds constituting Federated Hermes MDT Series) at July 31, 2020, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Trust’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Trust in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial highlights are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
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Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of July 31, 2020, by correspondence with the custodian and others or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from others were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
We have served as the auditor of one or more Federated Hermes investment companies since 1979.
Boston, Massachusetts
September 22, 2020
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Shareholder Expense Example (unaudited)
As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase or redemption payments; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and to the extent applicable, distribution (12b-1) fees and/or other service fees and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you to understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. It is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from February 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020.
ACTUAL EXPENSES
The first section of the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this section, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you incurred over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first section under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses attributable to your investment during this period.
HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES
The second section of the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. Thus, you should not use the hypothetical account values and expenses to estimate the actual ending account balance or your expenses for the period. Rather, these figures are required to be provided to enable you to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.
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Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transaction costs, such as sales charges (loads) on purchase or redemption payments. Therefore, the second section of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transaction costs were included, your costs would have been higher.
  Beginning
Account Value
2/1/2020
Ending
Account Value
7/31/2020
Expenses Paid
During Period1
Actual:      
Class A Shares $1,000 $1,017.90 $5.67
Class C Shares $1,000 $1,014.20 $9.42
Institutional Shares $1,000 $1,019.10 $4.42
Class R6 Shares $1,000 $1,019.10 $4.37
Hypothetical (assuming a 5% return
before expenses):
     
Class A Shares $1,000 $1,019.20 $5.67
Class C Shares $1,000 $1,015.50 $9.42
Institutional Shares $1,000 $1,020.50 $4.42
Class R6 Shares $1,000 $1,020.50 $4.37
1 Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized net expense ratios, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 (to reflect the one-half-year period). The annualized net expense ratios are as follows:
   
Class A Shares 1.13%
Class C Shares 1.88%
Institutional Shares 0.88%
Class R6 Shares 0.87%
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Board of Trustees and Trust Officers
The Board of Trustees is responsible for managing the Trust’s business affairs and for exercising all the Trust’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. The address of all Independent Trustees listed is 4000 Ericsson Drive, Warrendale, PA 15086-7561; Attention: Mutual Fund Board. As of December 31, 2019, the Trust comprised five portfolio(s), and the Federated Hermes Fund Family consisted of 41 investment companies (comprising 135 portfolios). Unless otherwise noted, each Officer is elected annually. Unless otherwise noted, each Trustee oversees all portfolios in the Federated Hermes Fund Family and serves for an indefinite term. The Fund’s Statement of Additional Information includes additional information about Trust Trustees and is available, without charge and upon request, by calling 1-800-341-7400.
Interested TRUSTEES Background
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
J. Christopher Donahue*
Birth Date: April 11, 1949
President and Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Director or Trustee of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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.
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held and Previous Position(s)
John B. Fisher*
Birth Date: May 16, 1956
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: May 2016
Principal Occupations: Principal Executive Officer and President of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Director or Trustee of certain of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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 of some of the Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family 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; President and CEO of Passport Research, Ltd.; 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.
* Reasons for “interested” status: J. Christopher Donahue and John B. Fisher are interested due to their beneficial ownership of shares of Federated Hermes, Inc. and due to positions they hold with Federated Hermes, Inc. and its subsidiaries.
INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES Background
Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
John T. Collins
Birth Date: January 24, 1947
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving:
October 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; formerly, Chairman and CEO, The Collins Group, Inc. (a private equity firm) (Retired).
Other Directorships Held: Chairman of the Board of Directors, Director, and Chairman of the Compensation Committee, 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).
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
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 Fund Family; 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.
Maureen Lally-Green
Birth Date: July 5, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: August 2009
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Adjunct Professor 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; Director and Vice Chair, Our Campaign for the Church Alive!, Inc.; 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, St. Vincent College; and Director and Chair, North Catholic High School, Inc.
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
Charles F. Mansfield, Jr.
Birth Date: April 10, 1945
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Management Consultant and Author.
Other Directorships Held: None.
Qualifications: Mr. Mansfield has served as a Marine Corps officer and in several banking, business management, educational roles and directorship positions throughout his long career. He remains active as a Management Consultant and Author.
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 Fund Family; 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).
P. Jerome Richey
Birth Date: February 23, 1949
Trustee
Indefinite Term
Began serving:
October 2013
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Management Consultant; Retired; formerly, Senior Vice Chancellor and Chief Legal Officer, University of Pittsburgh and Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly known as CONSOL Energy Inc.).
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, CNX Resources Corporation (formerly known as CONSOL Energy Inc.); and Board Member, Ethics Counsel and Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC (a law firm).
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Name
Birth Date
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years,
Other Directorships Held, Previous Position(s) and Qualifications
John S. Walsh
Birth Date:
November 28, 1957
Trustee

Indefinite Term
Began serving: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Director or Trustee, and Chair of the Board of Directors or Trustees, of the Federated Hermes Fund Family; 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).
OFFICERS
Name
Birth Date
Address
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years
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 Fund Family; Senior Vice President, Federated Administrative Services; Financial and Operations Principal for Federated Securities Corp. and Edgewood Services, Inc.; 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.
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Name
Birth Date
Address
Positions Held with Trust
Date Service Began
Principal Occupation(s) for Past Five Years
and Previous Position(s)
Peter J. Germain
Birth Date:
September 3, 1959
CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER, SECRETARY and EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Officer since: June 2006
Principal Occupations: Mr. Germain is Chief Legal Officer, Secretary and Executive Vice President of the Federated Hermes Fund Family. 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 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 F. Auth
Birth Date: September 13, 1956
101 Park Avenue
41st Floor
New York, NY 10178
CHIEF INVESTMENT OFFICER
Officer since: June 2012
Principal Occupations: Stephen F. Auth is Chief Investment Officer of various Funds in the Federated Hermes Fund Family; Executive Vice President, Federated Investment Counseling, Federated Global Investment Management Corp. and Federated Equity Management Company of Pennsylvania.
Previous Positions: Executive Vice President, Federated Investment Management Company and Passport Research, Ltd. (investment advisory subsidiary of Federated); Senior Vice President, Global Portfolio Management Services Division; Senior Vice President, Federated Investment Management Company and Passport Research, Ltd.; Senior Managing Director and Portfolio Manager, Prudential Investments.
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 Fund Family; 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.
    
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Evaluation and Approval of Advisory ContractMay 2020
Federated MDT Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”)
(EFFECTIVE CLOSE OF BUSINESS ON JUNE 26, 2020, THE FUND’S NAME CHANGED TO FEDERATED HERMES MDT SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND)
At its meetings in May 2020 (the “May Meetings”), the Fund’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”), including a majority of those Trustees who are not “interested persons” of the Fund, as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “Independent Trustees”), reviewed and unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory contract between the Fund and Federated MDTA LLC (the “Adviser”) with respect to the Fund (the “Contract”) for an additional one-year term. The Board’s determination to approve the continuation of the Contract reflects the exercise of its business judgment after considering all of the information and factors believed to be relevant and appropriate on whether to continue the existing arrangements. The information, factors and conclusions that formed the basis for the Board’s approval are summarized below.
Information Received and Review Process
At the request of the Independent Trustees, the Fund’s Chief Compliance Officer (the “CCO”) furnished to the Board in advance of its May Meetings an independent written evaluation presenting on the topics discussed below. The Board considered the CCO’s independent written evaluation (the “CCO Fee Evaluation Report”), along with other information, in evaluating the reasonableness of the Fund’s management fee and in determining to approve the continuation of the Contract. The CCO, in preparing the CCO Fee Evaluation Report, has the authority to retain consultants, experts or staff as reasonably necessary to assist in the performance of his duties, reports directly to the Board, and can be terminated only with the approval of a majority of the Independent Trustees. At the request of the Independent Trustees, the CCO Fee Evaluation Report followed the same general approach and covered the same topics as that of the report that had previously been delivered by the CCO in his capacity as “Senior Officer,” prior to the elimination of the Senior Officer position in December 2017.
In addition to the extensive materials that comprise and accompany the CCO Fee Evaluation Report, in the months preceding the May Meetings, the Board requested and reviewed written responses and supporting materials prepared by the Adviser and its affiliates (collectively, “Federated Hermes”) in response to requests posed to Federated Hermes on behalf of the Independent Trustees encompassing a wide variety of topics. The Board also considered such additional matters as the Independent Trustees deemed reasonably necessary to evaluate the Contract, which included detailed information about the Fund and Federated Hermes furnished to the Board at its meetings throughout the year
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and in between regularly scheduled meetings on particular matters as the need arose, as well as information specifically prepared in connection with the approval of the continuation of the Contract that was presented at the May Meetings.
The Board’s consideration of the Contract included review of materials and information covering the following matters, among others: the Adviser’s investment philosophy, revenue, profitability, personnel and processes; investment and operating strategies; the Fund’s short-term and long-term performance (in absolute terms, both on a gross basis and net of expenses, and relative to the Fund’s particular investment program and a group of its peer funds and/or its benchmark, as appropriate) and comments on the reasons for the Fund’s performance; the Fund’s investment objectives; the Fund’s expenses, including the advisory fee and the overall expense structure of the Fund (both in absolute terms and relative to a group of its peer funds), with due regard for contractual or voluntary expense limitations (if any); the use and allocation of brokerage commissions derived from trading the Fund’s portfolio securities (if any); and the nature, quality and extent of the advisory and other services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates. The Board also considered the preferences and expectations of Fund shareholders; the entrepreneurial and other risks assumed by the Adviser in sponsoring and managing the Fund; the continuing state of competition in the mutual fund industry and market practices; the range of comparable fees for similar funds in the mutual fund industry; the Fund’s relationship to the other funds advised by Federated Hermes (each, a “Federated Hermes Fund”), which include a comprehensive array of funds with different investment objectives, policies and strategies which are generally available for exchange without the incurrence of additional sales charges; compliance and audit reports concerning the Federated Hermes Funds and the Federated Hermes’ affiliates that service them (including communications from regulatory agencies), as well as Federated Hermes’ responses to any issues raised therein; and relevant developments in the mutual fund industry and how the Federated Hermes Funds and/or Federated Hermes may be responding to them. In addition, the Board received and considered information furnished by Federated Hermes on the impacts of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak on Federated Hermes generally and the Fund in particular, including, among other information, the current and anticipated impacts on the management, operations and performance of the Fund. The Board noted that its evaluation process is evolutionary and that the criteria considered and the emphasis placed on relevant criteria may change in recognition of changing circumstances in the mutual fund marketplace.
The Board also considered judicial decisions concerning allegedly excessive investment advisory fees in determining to approve the Contract. Using these judicial decisions as a guide, the Board observed that the following factors may be relevant to an adviser’s fiduciary duty with respect to its receipt of
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compensation from a fund: (1) the nature and quality of the services provided by an adviser to a fund and its shareholders (including the performance of the fund, its benchmark, and comparable funds); (2) an adviser’s cost of providing the services (including the profitability to an adviser of providing advisory services to a fund); (3) the extent to which an adviser may realize “economies of scale” as a fund grows larger and, if such economies of scale exist, whether they have been shared with a fund and its shareholders or the family of funds; (4) any “fall-out” financial benefits that accrue to an adviser because of its relationship with a fund (including research services received from brokers that execute fund trades and any fees paid to affiliates of an adviser for services rendered to a fund); (5) comparative fee and expense structures (including a comparison of fees paid to an adviser with those paid by similar funds both internally and externally as well as management fees charged to institutional and other advisory clients of the adviser for what might be viewed as like services); and (6) the extent of care, conscientiousness and independence with which the fund’s board members perform their duties and their expertise (including whether they are fully informed about all facts the board deems relevant to its consideration of an adviser’s services and fees). The Board noted that the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) disclosure requirements regarding the basis for a fund board’s approval of the fund’s investment advisory contracts generally align with the factors listed above. The Board was aware of these factors and was guided by them in its review of the Contract to the extent it considered them to be appropriate and relevant, as discussed further below.
The Board considered and weighed these factors in light of its substantial accumulated experience in governing the Fund and working with Federated Hermes on matters relating to the Federated Hermes Funds. While individual members of the Board may have weighed certain factors differently, the Board’s determination to continue the Contract was based on a comprehensive consideration of all information provided to the Board throughout the year and specifically with respect to the continuation of the Contract. The Independent Trustees were assisted throughout the evaluation process by independent legal counsel. In connection with their deliberations at the May Meetings, the Independent Trustees met separately in executive session with their independent legal counsel and without management present to review the relevant materials and consider their responsibilities under applicable laws. In addition, senior management representatives of Federated Hermes also met with the Independent Trustees and their independent legal counsel to discuss the materials and presentations furnished to the Board at the May Meetings. The Board considered the approval of the Contract for the Fund as part of its consideration of agreements for funds across the Federated Hermes Funds family, but its approvals were made on a fund-by-fund basis.
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Nature, Extent and Quality of Services
The Board considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and the resources of the Adviser and its affiliates dedicated to the Fund. In this regard, the Board evaluated, among other things, the Adviser’s personnel, experience and track record, as well as the financial resources and overall reputation of Federated Hermes and its willingness to invest in personnel and infrastructure that benefit the Federated Hermes Funds. The Board noted the significant acquisition of Hermes Fund Managers Limited by Federated Hermes in 2018, which has deepened the organization’s investment management expertise and capabilities and expanded the investment process for all of the Federated Hermes Funds to incorporate environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) factors and issuer engagement on ESG matters.
In addition, the Board reviewed the qualifications, backgrounds and responsibilities of the portfolio management team primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund and the Adviser’s ability and experience in attracting and retaining qualified personnel to service the Fund. The Board noted the compliance program of the Adviser and the compliance-related resources devoted by the Adviser and its affiliates in support of the Fund’s obligations pursuant to Rule 38a-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, including the Adviser’s commitment to respond to rulemaking and other regulatory initiatives of the SEC. such as the liquidity risk management program rules. In addition, the Board considered the response by the Adviser to recent market conditions and considered the overall performance of the Adviser in this context. The Fund’s ability to deliver competitive performance when compared to its Performance Peer Group (as defined below) was also deemed to be relevant by the Board as a useful indicator of how the Adviser is executing the Fund’s investment program. The Adviser’s ability to execute this program was one of the Board’s considerations in reaching a conclusion that the nature, extent and quality of the Adviser’s investment management and related services warrant the continuation of the Contract.
Fund Investment Performance
In evaluating the Fund’s investment performance, the Board considered performance results in light of the Fund’s investment objective, strategies and risks, as disclosed in the Fund’s prospectus. The Board also considered the Fund’s performance in light of the overall recent market conditions. The Board considered detailed investment reports on the Fund’s performance over different time periods that were provided to the Board throughout the year and in connection with the May Meetings and evaluated the Adviser’s analysis of the Fund’s performance for these time periods. The Board also reviewed comparative information regarding the performance of other mutual funds in the category of peer funds selected by Morningstar, Inc. (the “Morningstar”), an independent fund ranking organization (the “Performance Peer Group”), noting the CCO’s view that comparisons to fund peer groups may be helpful,
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though not conclusive, in evaluating the performance of the Adviser in managing the Fund. The Board considered, in evaluating such comparisons, that in some cases there may be differences in the funds’ investment objectives or investment management techniques, or the costs to implement funds, even within the same Performance Peer Group. In this connection, the Board considered that the Fund’s quantitative focus makes fee and expense comparisons particularly difficult as the funds in the Performance Peer Group varied widely in their complexity, and the management of the Fund is among the more complex relative to its Performance Peer Group.
For the periods ended December 31, 2019, the Fund’s performance for the five-year period was above the median of the relevant Performance Peer Group, and the Fund’s performance fell below the median of the relevant Performance Peer Group for the one-year and three-year periods. In addition, the Board was informed by the Adviser that, for the same periods, the Fund outperformed its benchmark index for the five-year period and underperformed its benchmark index for the one-year and three-year periods. The Board discussed the Fund’s performance with the Adviser and recognized the efforts being taken by the Adviser in the context of other factors considered relevant by the Board.
Following such evaluation, and full deliberations, the Board concluded that the performance of the Fund supported renewal of the Contract.
Fund Expenses
While mindful that courts have cautioned against giving too much weight to comparative information concerning fees charged by other advisers for managing funds with comparable investment programs, the Board has found the use of such comparisons to be relevant to its deliberations. In this regard, the Board was presented with, and considered, information regarding the contractual advisory fee rates, net advisory fee rates, total expense ratios and each element of the Fund’s total expense ratio (i.e., gross and net advisory fees, administrative fees, custody fees, portfolio accounting fees and transfer agency fees) relative to an appropriate group of peer funds compiled by Federated Hermes from the category of peer funds selected by Morningstar (the “Expense Peer Group”). The Board received a description of the methodology used to select the Expense Peer Group from the overall Morningstar category. The Board also reviewed comparative information regarding the fees and expenses of the broader group of funds in the overall Morningstar category. The Board focused on comparisons with other similar mutual funds more heavily than non-mutual fund products or services because such comparisons are believed to be more relevant. The Board considered that other mutual funds are the products most like the Fund, in that they are readily available to Fund shareholders as alternative investment vehicles, and they are the type of
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investment vehicle, in fact, chosen and maintained by the Fund’s investors. The Board noted that the range of their fees and expenses, therefore, appears to be a relevant indicator of what consumers have found to be reasonable in the marketplace in which the Fund competes.
The Board reviewed the contractual advisory fee rate, net advisory fee rate and other expenses of the Fund and noted the position of the Fund’s fee rates relative to its Expense Peer Group. In this regard, the Board noted that the contractual advisory fee rate was below the median of the relevant Expense Peer Group and the Board was satisfied that the overall expense structure of the Fund remained competitive.
For comparison, the Board received and considered information about the fees charged by Federated Hermes for providing advisory services to other types of clients with investment strategies similar to those of the Federated Hermes Funds, including non-mutual fund clients such as institutional separate accounts and third-party unaffiliated mutual funds for which the Adviser or its affiliates serve as sub-adviser. The Board noted the CCO’s conclusion that mon-mutual fund clients are inherently different products due to the following differences, among others: (i) different types of targeted investors; (ii) different applicable laws and regulations; (iii) different legal structures; (iv) different average account sizes and portfolio management techniques made necessary by different cash flows and different associated costs; (v) the time spent by portfolio managers and their teams (among other personnel across various departments, including legal, compliance and risk management) in reviewing securities pricing, addressing different administrative responsibilities, and addressing different degrees of risk associated with management; and (vi) a variety of different costs. The Board also considered information regarding the differences in the nature of the services required for Federated Hermes to manage its proprietary mutual fund business versus managing a discrete pool of assets as a sub-adviser to another institution’s mutual fund, noting that Federated Hermes generally performs significant additional services and assumes substantially greater risks in managing the Fund and other Federated Hermes Funds than in its role as sub-adviser to an unaffiliated third-party mutual fund. The Board noted that the CCO did not consider the fees for providing advisory services to other types of clients to be determinative in judging the appropriateness of the Federated Hermes Funds’ advisory fees.
The Board considered the CCO’s view that the services, administrative responsibilities and risks associated with such relationships are quite different than serving as a primary adviser to a fund.
Following such evaluation, and full deliberations, the Board concluded that the fees and expenses of the Fund are reasonable and supported renewal of the Contract.
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Profitability and Other Benefits
The Board also received financial information about Federated Hermes, including information regarding the compensation and ancillary (or “fall-out”) benefits Federated Hermes derived from its relationships with the Federated Hermes Funds. This information covered not only the fees under the Federated Hermes Funds’ investment advisory contracts, but also fees received by Federated Hermes’ affiliates for providing other services to the Federated Hermes Funds under separate contracts (e.g., for serving as the Federated Hermes Funds’ administrator and distributor). In this regard, the Board considered that certain of Federated Hermes’ affiliates provide distribution and shareholder services to the Federated Hermes Funds, for which they may be compensated through distribution and servicing fees paid pursuant to Rule 12b-1 plans or otherwise. The Board also received and considered information detailing any indirect benefit Federated Hermes may derive from its receipt of research services from brokers who execute portfolio trades for the Federated Hermes Funds. In addition, the Board considered the fact that, in order for the Federated Hermes Fund to be competitive in the marketplace, the Adviser and its affiliates frequently waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses and have disclosed to Federated Hermes Fund shareholders and/or reported to the Board their intention to do so in the future. Moreover, the Board received and considered regular reports from Federated Hermes throughout the year as to the institution, adjustment or elimination of these voluntary waivers and/or reimbursements.
The Board received and considered information furnished by Federated Hermes, as requested by the CCO, that reported revenues on a fund-by-fund basis and made estimates of the allocation of expenses on a fund-by-fund basis, using allocation methodologies specified by the CCO and described to the Board. The Board considered the CCO’s view that, while these cost allocation reports apply consistent allocation processes, the inherent difficulties in allocating costs continues to cause the CCO to question the precision of the process and to conclude that such reports may be unreliable, because a single change in an allocation estimate may dramatically alter the resulting estimate of cost and/or profitability of a Federated Hermes Fund and may produce unintended consequences. The allocation information, including the CCO’s view that fund-by-fund estimations may be unreliable, was considered in the evaluation by the Board. In addition, the Board considered that, during the prior year, an independent consultant conducted a review of the allocation methodologies used by Federated Hermes in estimating profitability for purposes of reporting to the Board in connection with the continuation of the Contract. The Board noted the consultant’s view that, although there is no single best method to allocate expenses, the methodologies used by Federated Hermes are reasonable.
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The Board also reviewed information compiled by Federated Hermes comparing its profitability information to other publicly held fund management companies, including information regarding profitability trends over time. The Board considered the CCO’s conclusion that, based on such profitability information, Federated Hermes’ profit margins did not appear to be excessive. The Board also considered the CCO’s view that Federated Hermes appeared financially sound, with the resources necessary to fulfill its obligations under its contracts with the Federated Hermes Funds.
In 2019, the Board approved a reduction of 5 basis points in the contractual advisory fee.
Economies of Scale
The Board received and considered information about the notion of possible realization of “economies of scale” as a fund grows larger, the difficulties of calculating economies of scale at an individual fund level, and the extent to which potential scale benefits are shared with shareholders. In this regard, the Board considered that Federated Hermes has made significant and long-term investments in areas that support all of the Federated Hermes Funds, such as personnel and processes for the portfolio management, trading operations, issuer engagement (including with respect to ESG matters), shareholder services, compliance, business continuity, internal audit and risk management functions, as well as systems technology (including technology relating to cybersecurity) and use of data. The Board noted that Federated Hermes’ investments in these areas are extensive and are designed to provide enhanced services to the Federated Hermes Funds and their shareholders. The Board considered that the benefits of these investments (as well as the benefits of any economies of scale, should they exist) are likely to be shared with the Federated Hermes Fund family as a whole. In addition, the Board considered that the Adviser and its affiliates have frequently waived fees and/or reimbursed expenses for the Federated Hermes Funds and that such waivers and reimbursements are another means for potential economies of scale to be shared with shareholders and can provide protection from an increase in expenses if a Federated Hermes Fund’s assets decline. Federated Hermes, as it does throughout the year, and specifically in connection with the Board’s review of the Contract, furnished information relative to adviser-paid fees (commonly referred to as revenue sharing). The Board considered the beliefs of Federated Hermes and the CCO that this information should be viewed to determine if there was an incentive to either not apply breakpoints or to apply breakpoints, at higher levels and should not be viewed to determine the appropriateness of advisory fees. The Board also noted the absence of any applicable regulatory or industry guidelines on this subject, which is compounded by the lack of any common industry practice or general pattern with respect to structuring fund advisory fees with “breakpoints” that serve to reduce the fee as a fund attains a certain size.
Annual Shareholder Report
56

Conclusions
The Board considered the CCO’s conclusion that his observations and the information accompanying the CCO Fee Evaluation Report show that the management fee for the Fund was reasonable and the CCO’s recommendation that the Board approve the management fee. The Board noted that, under these circumstances, no changes were recommended to, and no objection was raised to the continuation of, the Contract by the CCO. The CCO also recognized that the Board’s evaluation of the Federated Hermes Funds’ advisory and subadvisory arrangements is a continuing and on-going process that is informed by the information that the Board requests and receives from management throughout the course of the year and, in this regard, the CCO noted certain items for future reporting to the Board or further consideration by management as the Board continues its on-going oversight of the Federated Hermes Funds.
In its determination to continue an existing investment advisory contract, the Board was mindful of the potential disruptions of the Fund’s operations and various risks, uncertainties and other effects that could occur as a result of a decision to terminate or not renew an investment advisory contract. In particular, the Board recognized that many shareholders have invested in the Fund on the strength of the Adviser’s industry standing and reputation and with the expectation that the Adviser will have a continuing role in providing advisory services to the Fund. Thus, the Board’s approval of the Contract reflected the fact that it is the shareholders who have effectively selected the Adviser by virtue of having invested in the Fund. The Board concluded that, in light of the factors summarized above, including the nature, quality and scope of the services provided to the Fund by the Adviser and its affiliates, continuation of the Contract was appropriate.
The Board based its determination to approve the Contract on the totality of the circumstances and relevant factors and with a view to past and future long-term considerations. Not all of the factors and considerations identified above were necessarily deemed to be relevant to the Fund, nor did the Board consider any one of them to be determinative. With respect to the factors that were deemed to be relevant, the Board’s determination to approve the continuation of the Contract reflects its view that Federated Hermes’ performance and actions provided a satisfactory basis to support the determination to continue the existing arrangement.
Annual Shareholder Report
57

Liquidity Risk Management Program Annual Evaluation of Adequacy and Effectiveness
In accordance with Rule 22e-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Liquidity Rule”), Federated Hermes MDT Series (the “Trust”) has adopted and implemented a liquidity risk management program (the “LRMP”) for Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund” and collectively with the Federated Hermes funds, the “Funds”). The LRMP seeks to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk. “Liquidity risk” is defined under the Liquidity Rule as the risk that the Fund is unable to meet redemption requests without significantly diluting remaining investors’ interests in the Fund. The Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) has approved the designation of the Funds’ investment advisers as the administrators for the LRMP (collectively, the “Administrator”). The Administrator has established a Liquidity Risk Management Committee (the “Committee”) comprised of representatives from various departments across the Administrator to assist it in the implementation and on-going administration of the LRMP. The Committee, in turn, has delegated to the Fixed Income and Equities Liquidity Committees, each a separate committee previously established by the Administrator, the responsibility to review and assess certain information related to the liquidity of the Funds that fall within their respective asset classes.
The Program is comprised of various components designed to support the assessment and/or management of liquidity risk, including: (1) the periodic assessment (no less frequently than annually) of certain factors that influence the Fund’s liquidity risk; (2) the periodic classification (no less frequently than monthly) of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories that reflect an estimate of their liquidity under current market conditions; (3) a 15% limit on the acquisition of “illiquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule); (4) to the extent a Fund does not invest primarily in “highly liquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule), the determination of a minimum percentage of the Fund’s assets that generally will be invested in highly liquid investments (an “HLIM”); (5) if a Fund has established an HLIM, the periodic review (no less frequently than annually) of the HLIM and the adoption of policies and procedures for responding to a shortfall of the Fund’s highly liquid investments below its HLIM; and (6) periodic reporting to the Board.
At its meetings in May 2020, the Board received and reviewed a written report from the Funds’ Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Risk Officer, on behalf of the Administrator, concerning the operation of the LRMP for the period from the LRMP’s inception on December 1, 2018 through March 31, 2020 (the “Period”). The Report addressed the operation of the LRMP and assessed its adequacy and effectiveness, including, where applicable, the operation of any HLIM established for a Fund. There were no
Annual Shareholder Report
58

material changes to the LRMP during the Period. The Report summarized the operation of the Program and the information and factors considered by the Administrator in assessing whether the Program has been adequately and effectively implemented with respect to the Funds. Such information and factors included, among other things:
■  the liquidity risk framework used to assess, manage, and periodically review each Fund’s liquidity risk and the results of this assessment, including a review of the Funds’ access to other available funding sources such as the Funds’ interfund lending facility, redemptions in-kind and committed lines of credit and confirmation that the Fund did not have to access any of these alternative funding sources during the Period;
■  the periodic classifications of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories and the methodologies and inputs used to classify the investments, including the Fund’s reasonably anticipated trade size;
■  the analysis received from a third-party liquidity assessment vendor that is taken into account in the process of determining the liquidity classifications of the Fund’s investments and the results of an evaluation of the services performed by the vendor in support of this process;
■  the fact that the Fund invested primarily in highly liquid investments during the Period and, therefore, was not required to establish, and has not established, an HLIM and the procedures for monitoring the status of the Fund as investing primarily in highly liquid investments;
■  the fact that the Fund invested no more than 15% of its assets in illiquid investments during the Period and the procedures for monitoring this limit; and
■  liquidity events during the Period, including the impact on liquidity caused by extended non-U.S. market closures and the market disruptions resulting from the novel coronavirus outbreak, and the fact that there were no specific liquidity events during the Period that materially affected the Fund’s liquidity risk.
Based on this review, the Administrator concluded that the LRMP is operating effectively to assess and manage the Fund’s liquidity risk, and that the Program has been and continues to be adequately and effectively implemented to monitor and, as applicable, respond to the Fund’s liquidity developments.
Annual Shareholder Report
59

Voting Proxies on Fund Portfolio Securities
A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies, if any, relating to securities held in the Fund’s portfolio is available, without charge and upon request, by calling 1-800-341-7400. A report on “Form N-PX” of how the Fund voted any such 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.
Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
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.
Annual Shareholder Report
60

Mutual funds are not bank deposits or obligations, are not 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. Investment in mutual funds involves investment risk, including the possible loss of principal.
This Report is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by the Fund’s Prospectus, which contains facts concerning its objective and policies, management fees, expenses and other information.
Federated Hermes MDT Small Cap Growth 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
CUSIP 31421R775
CUSIP 31421R767
CUSIP 31421R759
CUSIP 31421R619
37313 (9/20)
© 2020 Federated Hermes, Inc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Item 2.Code of Ethics

 

(a) As of the end of the period covered by this report, the registrant has adopted a code of ethics (the "Section 406 Standards for Investment Companies - Ethical Standards for Principal Executive and Financial Officers") that applies to the registrant's Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer; the registrant's Principal Financial Officer also serves as the Principal Accounting Officer.

(c) There was no amendment to the registrant’s code of ethics described in Item 2(a) above during the period covered by the report.

(d) There was no waiver granted, either actual or implicit, from a provision to the registrant’s code of ethics described in Item 2(a) above during the period covered by the report.

(e) Not Applicable

(f)(3) The registrant hereby undertakes to provide any person, without charge, upon request, a copy of the code of ethics. To request a copy of the code of ethics, contact the registrant at 1-800-341-7400, and ask for a copy of the Section 406 Standards for Investment Companies - Ethical Standards for Principal Executive and Financial Officers.

Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert

The registrant's Board has determined that each of the following members of the Board's Audit Committee is an “audit committee financial expert,” and is "independent," for purposes of this Item:   John T. Collins, G. Thomas Hough and Thomas M. O'Neill. 

 

Item 4.Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

(a)       Audit Fees billed to the registrant for the two most recent fiscal years:

Fiscal year ended 2020 – $146,200

Fiscal year ended 2019 - $142,400

(b)       Audit-Related Fees billed to the registrant for the two most recent fiscal years:

Fiscal year ended 2020 - $0

Fiscal year ended 2019 - $0

Amount requiring approval of the registrant’s audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X, $11,145 and $0 respectively. Fiscal year ended 2020- Audit consent fees for N-14 merger document.

(c)        Tax Fees billed to the registrant for the two most recent fiscal years:

Fiscal year ended 2020 - $0

Fiscal year ended 2019 - $0

Amount requiring approval of the registrant’s audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X, $0 and $0 respectively.

(d)       All Other Fees billed to the registrant for the two most recent fiscal years:

Fiscal year ended 2020 - $0

Fiscal year ended 2019 - $0

Amount requiring approval of the registrant’s audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X, $42,456 and $27,403 respectively. Fiscal year ended 2020- Service fee for analysis of potential Passive Foreign Investment Company holdings. Fiscal year ended 2019- Service fee for analysis of potential Passive Foreign Investment Company holdings.

(e)(1) Audit Committee Policies regarding Pre-approval of Services.

The Audit Committee is required to pre-approve audit and non-audit services performed by the independent auditor in order to assure that the provision of such services do not impair the auditor’s independence. Unless a type of service to be provided by the independent auditor has received general pre-approval, it will require specific pre-approval by the Audit Committee. Any proposed services exceeding pre-approved cost levels will require specific pre-approval by the Audit Committee.

Certain services have the general pre-approval of the Audit Committee. The term of the general pre-approval is 12 months from the date of pre-approval, unless the Audit Committee specifically provides for a different period. The Audit Committee will annually review the services that may be provided by the independent auditor without obtaining specific pre-approval from the Audit Committee and may grant general pre-approval for such services. The Audit Committee will revise the list of general pre-approved services from time to time, based on subsequent determinations. The Audit Committee will not delegate to management its responsibilities to pre-approve services performed by the independent auditor.

The Audit Committee has delegated pre-approval authority to its Chairman for services that do not exceed a specified dollar threshold. The Chairman or Chief Audit Executive will report any such pre-approval decisions to the Audit Committee at its next scheduled meeting. The Committee will designate another member with such pre-approval authority when the Chairman is unavailable.

AUDIT SERVICES

The annual Audit services engagement terms and fees will be subject to the specific pre-approval of the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee will approve, if necessary, any changes in terms, conditions and fees resulting from changes in audit scope, registered investment company (RIC) structure or other matters.

In addition to the annual Audit services engagement specifically approved by the Audit Committee, the Audit Committee may grant general pre-approval for other Audit services, which are those services that only the independent auditor reasonably can provide. The Audit Committee has pre-approved certain Audit services; with limited exception, all other audit services must be specifically pre-approved by the Audit Committee.

AUDIT-RELATED SERVICES

Audit-related services are assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the RIC’s financial statements or that are traditionally performed by the independent auditor. The Audit Committee believes that the provision of Audit-related services does not impair the independence of the auditor, and has pre-approved certain audit-related services; all other audit-related services must be specifically pre-approved by the Audit Committee.

TAX SERVICES

The Audit Committee believes that the independent auditor can provide Tax services to the RIC such as tax compliance, tax planning and tax advice without impairing the auditor’s independence. However, the Audit Committee will not permit the retention of the independent auditor in connection with a transaction initially recommended by the independent auditor, the purpose of which may be tax avoidance and the tax treatment of which may not be supported in the Internal Revenue Code and related regulations. The Audit Committee has pre-approved certain Tax services; with limited exception, all tax services involving large and complex transactions must be specifically pre-approved by the Audit Committee.

ALL OTHER SERVICES

With respect to the provision of permissible services other than audit, review or attest services the pre-approval requirement is waived if:

(1)With respect to such services rendered to the Funds, the aggregate amount of all such services provided constitutes no more than five percent of the total amount of revenues paid by the audit client to its accountant during the fiscal year in which the services are provided; and,

 

(2)With respect to such services rendered to the Fund’s investment adviser and any entity controlling, controlled by to under common control with the investment adviser such as affiliated non-U.S. and U.S. funds not under the Audit Committee’s purview and which do not fall within a category of service which has been determined by the Audit Committee not to have a direct impact on the operations or financial reporting of the RIC, the aggregate amount of all services provided constitutes no more than five percent of the total amount of revenues paid to the RIC’s auditor by the RIC, its investment adviser and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser during the fiscal year in which the services are provided; and

 

(3)Such services were not recognized by the issuer or RIC at the time of the engagement to be non-audit services; and

 

(4)Such services are promptly brought to the attention of the Audit Committee and approved prior to the completion of the audit by the Audit Committee or by one or more members of the Audit Committee who are members of the Board of Directors to whom authority to grant such approvals has been delegated by the Audit Committee.

 

The Audit Committee may grant general pre-approval to those permissible non-audit services which qualify for pre-approval and which it believes are routine and recurring services, and would not impair the independence of the auditor.

The SEC’s rules and relevant guidance should be consulted to determine the precise definitions of these services and applicability of exceptions to certain of the prohibitions.

PRE-APPROVAL FEE LEVELS

Pre-approval fee levels for all services to be provided by the independent auditor will be established annually by the Audit Committee. Any proposed services exceeding these levels will require specific pre-approval by the Audit Committee.

PROCEDURES

Requests or applications to provide services that require specific approval by the Audit Committee will be submitted to the Audit Committee by the Fund’s Principal Accounting Officer and/or the Chief Audit Executive of Federated Hermes, Inc., only after those individuals have determined that the request or application is consistent with the SEC’s rules on auditor independence.

(e)(2) Percentage of services identified in items 4(b) through 4(d) that were approved by the registrants audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X:

4(b)

Fiscal year ended 2020 – 0%

Fiscal year ended 2019 - 0%

Percentage of services provided to the registrants investment adviser and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant that were approved by the registrants audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X, 0% and 0% respectively.

4(c)

Fiscal year ended 2020 – 0%

Fiscal year ended 2019 – 0%

Percentage of services provided to the registrants investment adviser and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant that were approved by the registrants audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X, 0% and 0% respectively.

4(d)

Fiscal year ended 2020 – 0%

Fiscal year ended 2019 – 0%

Percentage of services provided to the registrants investment adviser and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant that were approved by the registrants audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X, 0% and 0% respectively.

(f)NA

 

(g)Non-Audit Fees billed to the registrant, the registrant’s investment adviser, and certain entities controlling, controlled by or under common control with the investment adviser:

Fiscal year ended 2020 - $150,395

Fiscal year ended 2019 - $624,400

(h)The registrant’s Audit Committee has considered that the provision of non-audit services that were rendered to the registrant’s adviser (not including any sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser), and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant that were not pre-approved pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X is compatible with maintaining the principal accountant’s independence.

 

The registrant’s management and Audit Committee continue to believe that the registrant’s registered public accounting firm, Ernst & Young LLP (“EY”), has the ability to exercise objective and impartial judgment on all issues encompassed within their audit services. EY is required to make a determination that it satisfies certain independence requirements under the federal securities laws. Like other registrants, there is a risk that activities or relationships of EY, or its partners or employees, can prevent a determination from being made that it satisfies such independence requirements with respect to the registrant, which could render it ineligible to serve as the registrant’s independent public accountant.

In its required communications to the Audit Committee of the registrant’s Board, EY informed the Audit Committee that EY and/or covered person professionals within EY maintain lending relationships with certain owners of greater than 10% of the shares of certain investment companies within the “investment company complex” as defined under Rule 2-01(f)(14) of Regulation S-X, which are affiliates of the registrant. EY has advised the Audit Committee that these lending relationships implicate Rule 2-01(c)(1)(ii)(A) of Regulation S-X (referred to as the “Loan Rule”). The Loan Rule prohibits an independent public accountant, or covered person professionals at such firm, from having a financial relationship (such as a loan) with a lender that is a record or beneficial owner of more than 10% of an audit client’s equity securities. For purposes of the Loan Rule, audit clients include the registrant, as well as all registered investment companies advised by advisory subsidiaries of Federated Hermes, Inc., the Adviser (for which EY serves as independent public accountant), and their respective affiliates (collectively, the “Federated Hermes Fund Complex”).

EY informed the Audit Committee that EY believes that these lending relationships described above do not and will not impair EY’s ability to exercise objective and impartial judgment in connection with financial statement audits of their respective funds of the registrant and a reasonable investor with knowledge of all relevant facts and circumstances would conclude that EY has been and is capable of objective and impartial judgment on all issues encompassed within EY’s audits.

On June 20, 2016, the Division of Investment Management of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) issued a no-action letter to another mutual fund complex (see Fidelity Management & Research Company et al., No-Action Letter) related to similar Loan Rule matters as those described above (the “Letter”). In the Letter, the SEC Staff confirmed that it would not recommend enforcement action against an investment company that relied on the audit services performed by an independent public accountant where the Loan Rule was implicated in certain specified circumstances provided that: (1) the auditor has complied with PCAOB Rule 3526(b)(1) and 3526(b)(2); (2) the Loan Rule is implicated because of lending relationships; and (3) notwithstanding such lending relationships that implicate the Loan Rule, the auditor has concluded that it is objective and impartial with respect to the issues encompassed within its engagement as auditor of the funds. The circumstances described in the Letter are substantially similar to the circumstances that implicated the Loan Rule with respect to EY and the registrant. On September 22, 2017, the SEC extended the expiration of the Letter until the effectiveness of any amendments to the Loan Rule designed to address the concerns in the Letter. On June 18, 2019, the SEC adopted amendments (effective October 3, 2019) to the Loan Rule, which, refocus the analysis that must be conducted to determine whether an auditor is independent when the auditor has a lending relationship with certain shareholders of an audit client at any time during an audit or professional engagement period.

If it were to be determined that, with respect to the Loan Rule, the relief available under the Letter was improperly relied upon, or that the independence requirements under the federal securities laws were not complied with regarding the registrant, for certain periods, and/or given the implication of the Investment Rule for certain periods, any of the registrant’s filings with the SEC which contain financial statements of the registrant for such periods may be determined not to be consistent with or comply with applicable federal securities laws, the registrant’s ability to offer shares under its current registration statement may be impacted, and certain financial reporting and/or other covenants with, and representations and warranties to, the registrant’s lender under its committed line of credit may be impacted. Such events could have a material adverse effect on the registrant and the Federated Hermes Fund Complex.

Item 5.Audit Committee of Listed Registrants

 

Not Applicable

 

Item 6.Schedule of Investments

 

(a) The registrant’s Schedule of Investments is included as part of the Report to Stockholders filed under Item 1 of this form.

 

(b) Not Applicable; Fund had no divestments during the reporting period covered since the previous Form N-CSR filing.

 

Item 7.Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies

 

Not Applicable

 

Item 8.Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies

 

Not Applicable

 

Item 9.Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed-End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers

 

Not Applicable

 

Item 10.Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

No Changes to Report

 

Item 11.Controls and Procedures

 

(a) The registrant’s President and Treasurer have concluded that the

registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in rule 30a-3(c) under the Act) are effective in design and operation and are sufficient to form the basis of the certifications required by Rule 30a-(2) under the Act, based on their evaluation of these disclosure controls and procedures within 90 days of the filing date of this report on Form N-CSR.

 

(b) There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in rule 30a-3(d) under the Act) during the registrant’s most recent fiscal half-year (the registrant’s second fiscal half-year in the case of an annual report) that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 12.Disclosure of Securities Lending Activities for Closed-End Management Investment Companies

 

Not Applicable

 

Item 13.Exhibits

 

(a)(1) Code of Ethics- Not Applicable to this Report.

 

(a)(2) Certifications of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer.

 

(a)(3) Not Applicable.

 

(b) Certifications pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

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

 

Registrant Federated Hermes MDT Series

 

By /S/ Lori A. Hensler

 

Lori A. Hensler, Principal Financial Officer

 

Date September 22, 2020

 

 

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

 

 

By /S/ J. Christopher Donahue

 

J. Christopher Donahue, Principal Executive Officer

 

Date September 22, 2020

 

 

By /S/ Lori A. Hensler

 

Lori A. Hensler, Principal Financial Officer

 

Date September 22, 2020